All Aboard

On Saturday morning, after spending a few days in Venice, it was finally time to start our cruise. After filling out our health forms, checking in, and handing over our passports*, we boarded the Norwegian Jade. We couldn't get into our rooms just yet, so we were glad we'd chosen to drop off our backpacks with the suitcase in the checked luggage area. We grabbed lunch and then started our exploration of the ship. We found the main dining hall, the formal dining hall, several bars, specialty restaurants, the two pools, the sports court and the theater. Around 4:00, we attended the mandatory safety meeting and watched as the staff pulled life-jackets over their clothes, while the cruise director gave instructions in four different languages. Finally, we settled on the deck, where we could watch as the ship left Venice.

*Turkish authorities required that the ship present all non-European passports upon arrival in Izmir. Since we had another set of government issued identification (i.e. our Dutch residence permits), the cruise staff went ahead and collected our passports on the first day. It was a little disconcerting to let go of such an important document, but we got it back on Thursday, after our day in Izmir, without a problem. 

Silly Chairs

Sports Court

Pool Area

During the actual on-ship portion of our cruise, I think some of my fondest memories are those where Mr. Traveler and I sat (or stood) outside, admiring the passing scenery. One evening, as we stood on the top deck, I even saw a shooting star in the sky.

Throughout the week, we enjoyed swimming in the pool, relaxing in the hot tub, trying the various restaurants, and just relaxing. We even saw a couple of shows in the theater; one night, we listened to a duo who had reached the finals on X-Factor, and on another evening, we watched a performance combining dance, acrobatics, and magic.

Stardust Theater

After making several trips over the past year which required either renting a car or using public transportation, booking hotel rooms, and making constant decisions, it was nice to have an environment where we could just enjoy being on vacation.

Relaxed on the Ship

However, the trip wasn't just about chilling on a ship. We had specifically selected the Eastern Mediterranean cruise because we were really excited about exploring that area of the world. Next, I'll tell you about our first stop in Dubrovnik, Croatia.