We picked this cruise because we wanted to get away from the larger Caribbean ports and the big cruise ships. We also love snorkeling and actually sailing on a tall ship (schooner), not just motorsailing. It was all that and more. Staff very professional and highly organized, food was terrific and they easily accommodated my preferences (pescatarian). The chef was creative and clearly took pride in his work. They gave us a very fun, classy, safety-minded week, tremendous snorkeling sites, use of the kayaks while at anchor, swimming off the boat or on beaches, opportunities for walks and hikes. Everyone was helpful, friendly, engaged.

You don't need to pack much, just tee shirts and shorts and swim suits. Really. You need to be able to navigate stairs and ladders and climb on and off a dinghy.

There's not much in the way of formal entertainment (didn't want that), but there's great conversations and plenty of time for reading and sketching and learning, making new friends. We laughed so much. Captain Nervo from the Galapagos was amazing. Read more