Port Canaveral was quick and easy, both during embarkation and disembarkation. Only downfall, 45 minutes from Orlando International Airport.

I wasn't thrilled about this port when I first saw on the itinerary, because I have been to Puerto Plata, DR before and didn't like it. Boy! was I wrong!! This port is BEAUTIFUL! Wish I had known before we booked an excursion. They have a full service port with a giant pool, swim up pool bar, zip lining, observation deck, restaurants, shopping, bars. We booked our excursion prior to sailing - we chose the Outback ATV Terracross Adventure, SO worth the money! We started off in an awesome open air truck ride - lasted about 25 mins I would say, but we did't mind because we had a great breeze and a nice scenic route. We got to see a little bit of the country side as well as how the locals live, a little of their hustle and bustle side, and lastly the beautiful coast. We arrived at the Outback Adventures Ranch, the place was very well kept, the people who were on the tour prior to us we just sitting down for lunch, smelled / looked so good! Had a brief safety talk, signed our life away, and we were off for our adventure! We rode around the country side for what seemed like hours (in a good way) , these were side by side atvs, almost looked like go carts- they had some kick! I let my husband drive the whole way, I was perfectly content with the passenger role and taking in the scenery - oh, and manning the GoPro! We passed cows and goats and lots of chickens - they all look very healthy and are not chained up (which we observed all over the island of Antigua for our honeymoon :( ) . Our 1st stop was at a local home , I cannot remember the fella's name, but he was a rather old man who lived on the same land without electricity or running water for over 60 years. Him and his family eagerly welcomed us into his home, they gave us all fresh coconut water from the coconut, and let us look around their place. We then hopped back in our vehicles and headed to a tucked away river for a dip. It was chilly, but so worth it! A lot of people chose to stand by and watch, but I jumped right in! The guide said there isn't much wildlife to worry about - no snakes, alligators, or things like that in the waters- I chose to believe him ;) . We spent about 20 mins at the river, then headed back to the ranch for some delicious DFC - Dominican Fried Chicken, fried plantains, rum and cokes, pineapple wine, and mamajuana (all included with the cost of the excursion) best fried chicken I've ever eaten. Thanks to our wonderful tour guides Kelvin and Choko - we had a blast!!! One more thing about the DR -- it's not like other ports - the locals are so friendly! they always smile and wave! Our guide told us that a lot of the proceeds from the excursions make their way back to the community - increasing their local economy - so it's a win-win for all!

I was excited for this port because we were going to lay on the beach and relax. Um...1st mistake. The beach was packed at the port being that there was another ship at port the same time. This beach was also very dirty, Margaritaville had a swim up pool bar, but pretty expensive. Our friends told us about this place called Jack's Shack, just a 5-10 min walk up the beach, best move of the day! This was a classic island living beach shack with cold beers, nice decor, and killer food. We had Turks Head local beer, Jerk chicken, conch fritters, and fries. Tiki was our server and he was awesome! Topher is the local pooch and he's a celebrity in his own. We can't wait to go back and hang with Jack, Tiki, and Topher.