Embarkation New Orleans: Very quick but we were unable to put our carry on luggage in our cabin until 2pm, put a damper on touring riverwalk or the french market prior to departure. Food in both Windows and the Garden Room was very good, but portions were small. I found the service good and comparable to other cruise lines. Ports: Costa Maya: We went to town. Had to take a bus for $3 per person. There are many beach clubs, and they gave us 2 chaise lounge chairs and an umbrella to use, all they asked was that we buy some drinks or food. ( Carona beer is 6 for $10 some places) After enjoying the beach we went back to the ship in a cab for $2 per person.

Santo Thomas De Castillo, Guatemala : On the Pier there are many tour operators. We chose Eco tours. They gave us the waterfall & city tour of port Barrios for $25 per person. The waterfalls are in a park and there is an $8 per person entrance fee. The tour was very nice including a walk thru their rain forest. The water under the waterfalls is very clean and many people took a swim. There are 2 different places to swim. Its a good idea to wear a swimsuit, I didn't see any where to change. This was a very nice tour and we enjoyed it. 3 hours long. Then they drove around port Barrios, no stops.

Belize city: We tendered to the city and then got on a water taxi for Caye Cauker. Its a 45 minute trip but very resonable, $7.50 per person round trip. At Caye Cauker we walked to the split about 8 blocks. Its free to swim, very rustic but we enjoyed it. When we got back to town we shopped. I bought crown royal for $12 a fifth. Read more