ALL ABOARD

Our exciting adventure began on a hot, sunny morning after a delicious breakfast at the Meridian Hotel. We bid farewell to the friendly, accommodating staff, loaded many bags into a van and headed to the Port of Miami. The transfer to the ship was quick and seamless not only because the Oceania staff are efficient but also because our vessel, the Regatta, was the only ship departing that day. This port is huge and there are times when as many as eight vessels can be docked.

MS REGATTA

MS Regatta, of the Oceania Line, is not a behemoth but rather an extremely large, elegant yacht, which carries a crew of approximately 400 to serve a passenger count of approximately 740. Our travel pals, who  have sailed Oceania twice before, assure us the experience will be first class.

Port of Miami and gangway to our vessel

Although all four of us set off security alarms, no contraband was found and we cleared security within minutes. As concierge passengers, our early check-in was efficient, which gave us ample opportunity to explore the ship and unpack before we sailed.

Friends for more than 50 years, many good times together and now a grand cruise experience.

We had to wait awhile before we could access our cabin. What better to do than enjoy lunch in the Terrace Café and then relax poolside.

Just missing a cold beer - opted for water to stay hydrated

Pool side relaxation but no skinny dipping allowed. Our suits were packed and our luggage not yet delivered.

Ahhhh! relaxation beckons

I draped a Canadian flag on our veranda railing anticipating anyone from viewing the Miami Port webcam would know where our stateroom was located - deck 7, starboard mid-ship.

BON VOYAGE CANUCK STYLE

The guys checked out the departure process while the gals unpacked. I know, it sounds a little unbalanced and unfair but we decided it was quicker and more efficient to do it ourselves. We finished in time to sip the bubbly as we sailed away from lovely Miami.

DS and RP

We now have two days at sea with plenty of time to settle into a 'DO NOTHING' routine. Life is very good. We miss you all.