Cruising to Bermuda on NCL’s Joy
The Sapphire Princess first set sail in 2004 as the second Gem-class ship in the Princess fleet. With 700 of its 1,337 rooms offering private balconies, it accommodates 2,670 passengers in style. This 18-deck marvel is brimming with traditional cruise ship amenities, including four pools, an indoor conservatory, a fitness center and spa, three dining rooms, four casual cafes and specialty restaurants, a casino, four bars, a nightclub, and a two-level theater.
This particular itinerary took us to the tropical, sun-drenched ports of Princess Cays, St. Thomas, Dominica, Martinique, St. Kitts, and Antigua in the West Indies. The West Indies comprises 13 independent island nations and 19 dependencies, forming part of the broader Caribbean region, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
Day 1: Embarkation in Fort Lauderdale
Embarkation was seamless and stress-free. Upon arrival, luggage was whisked away by a porter, and thanks to our pre-ordered Medallion, we breezed through the Green Line. By 11 a.m., we were warmly welcomed onboard, even though passengers from the previous voyage had disembarked just moments before.
This cruise was particularly special—our stateroom was comped, courtesy of the Princess Players Casino Team. We enjoyed a balcony mini suite with complimentary drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities included. Paying only the taxes and port fees felt like a steal! Readers often ask how to qualify for comp rooms. There’s no exact formula. It seems your play is evaluated in comparison to other guests’ averages on each cruise. Be sure to log in with your Medallion while playing, to accumulate points.
Our room was spacious and well-appointed, and our steward’s attentiveness made us feel pampered. A bouquet of fresh flowers also adorned the room—a thoughtful surprise from my husband.
Day 2: Princess Cays, Bahamas
Having visited Princess Cays before, we chose to spend the day exploring the ship’s amenities while most passengers ventured ashore. Our day began with a blissful massage at the Lotus Spa, taking advantage of the discounted rates for treatments on port days. Heaven.
Next, we booked lounge chairs in The Sanctuary, a tranquil adult-only retreat at the ship’s bow. This serene haven offered comfortable seating and attentive servers ready to deliver drinks and light bites. With the Medallion’s tracking system, ordering from “At Your Service” is effortless—food and beverages can be delivered to guests anywhere on the ship.
The afternoon brought intellectual enrichment with a lecture titled 30,000 Years of Art in 30 Minutes. Though the presenter admitted she couldn’t possibly condense so much history into a half-hour, the fascinating discussion prepared me for the next day’s art auction. We wrapped up the day with a comedy show by Doug Funk and a soulful performance of classic hits by singer Trish Kelly in the Princess Theatre.
Day 3: At Sea
The first sea day was brimming with activities. After a port lecture, I visited a few of the boutiques, then registered for the Park West Art Auction. Though I typically prefer buying art directly from local artists that I meet, I was intrigued by the diverse collection of limited originals, prints, and lithographs. The event included a glossy catalog featuring artist bios and works—a collector’s dream.
Later, the Martini Mixology demonstration turned out to be equal parts education and entertainment, with guests dancing as they helped bartenders “shake it up.” The evening’s Formal Night gave passengers a chance to dress up for professional photos. The festive atmosphere began in the Piazza, where the officers were introduced, followed by watching guests fill the iconic Champagne Waterfall. We ended the night with Bravo, a unique production show blending opera and contemporary music, followed by Doug Funk’s hilarious adults-only comedy show.
Day 4: St. Thomas, USVI
Since I have visited St. Thomas many times, I opted for a low-key day onboard, avoiding the midday rain showers. When the weather cleared, we strolled to the nearby Havensight shops and grabbed lunch at Smokin’ Rooster BBQ and Bar. Their jerk chicken wings and homemade fries were delectable. The lively staff, along with U.S. football on the TV’s, made the experience even better.
Back on the ship, we enjoyed an evening filled with live music in the ship’s various lunge venues. From piano music to electric violins and 80s dance hits, each performance offered a unique vibe, ensuring there was musical entertainment for everyone.
Day 5: Dominica
This day was all about adventure! We hired a driver to explore Dominica’s natural wonders, starting with the Emerald Pool, a serene waterfall nestled within lush greenery. Next, we visited Titou Gorge, where visitors don life vests and swim through a series of natural stone “rooms” with high cliff walls on each side and rain misting down from the canopied trees above. It was amazing.
Our journey continued to Trafalgar Falls, twin cascades set amidst a verdant backdrop. A short hike led us to a viewing platform perfect for capturing photos. The day concluded at Screw’s Hot Springs, where a series of sulfur pools and mud bath provided ultimate relaxation. The minerals left my muscles relaxed, my skin rejuvenated and my spirit refreshed.
Back onboard, we laughed through comedian Mike Siegel’s show and rocked out to the production show Born to Be Wild. Another smashing hit by the production cast.
Day 6: St. Lucia
Due to civil unrest in Martinique, Princess replaced the stop with St. Lucia. Disembarking late morning, we braved the heat and took a taxi to the St. Lucia Rum Distillers, the island’s last remaining rum distillery. After an interesting tour of the facility, we were invited to taste any or all of their outstanding spirits, about 15 rums, ranging from sweet to spicy. St. Lucia Rum Distillers’ diverse selection of flavored spirits are quite impressive.
Before dinner, we attended the Good Spirits at Sea cocktail demonstration, savoring craft cocktails paired with fascinating stories of cocktail history. Though we initially planned to watch an ABBA tribute, in the theatre, we opted for an early night to recharge for St. Kitts.
Day 7: St. Kitts
Just a short walk from the cruise dock in St. Kitts, we discovered Palms Court Gardens and Restaurant. This former colonial home turned oasis, features a stunning infinity pool overlooking the harbor and serves poolside food and drinks. Their charming boutique, Shell Works, offers handcrafted shell jewelry and décor hand crafted by its artistic owner. It was the perfect spot for a relaxing day.
Dinner at Sabatini’s, the ship’s specialty Italian restaurant, was a highlight of the evening. Homemade pasta, including decadent lobster ravioli, and tiramisu paired with a rich Pinot Noir made for an unforgettable meal. The evening’s entertainment was a dazzling Elton John Tribute by pianist and vocalist Jeffrey Allen, whose spot-on performance had the audience singing along.
Day 8: Antigua
Our morning began with a tour of Stingray City, where guests swam and fed graceful stingrays in crystal-clear waters. The 30-minute ride to and from the site also offered scenic views of Antigua’s charming countryside. Back at port, we explored shops at Radcliffe Quay and Heritage Quay before returning to the ship.
The evening’s Halloween festivities transformed the ship into a spooky spectacle. Over two hundred guests took part in the costume contest! We dressed as Neptune and a Mermaid, placing second to a romantic Prince Charming and Cinderella. Dancing and live music in the Explorer’s Lounge capped off a spirited, thrilling night.
Day 9: At Sea
After a morning Zumba class, which was a blast, we spent the day unwinding. A highlight was the Marriage Match Game, a hilarious take on the Newleywed Game. The evening’s production, Let Me Entertain You, highlighted contemporary songs performed with impeccable energy and talent by the production cast and orchestra.
Day 10: At Sea
The final day at sea led me to the International Wine Tasting Experience. Tables representing the U.S., Italy, France, Spain, and Australia offered a curated selection of wines that guests could taste to their heart’s content. The interactive event also included raffles and a silent auction, where I snagged two exceptional bottles to take home!
The day culminated with the Farewell Variety Show, introducing a new cast of entertainers who promised to continue the Sapphire Princess’ stellar entertainment legacy.
Day 11: Disembarkation in Fort Lauderdale
Disembarkation was swift and well-organized, with taxis lined up to take passengers to the airport. This cruise aboard the Sapphire Princess was a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and entertainment—a true Southern Caribbean dream.
night in the heart of dazzling New York City. As a special surprise, sunset that evening provided a clear view of “Manhattanhenge”, an annual event that occurs when the sun sets in perfect alignment between the city’s east-west numbered streets. The warm colors cast upon historic buildings were striking!
Our evening in the Big Apple continued with a delicious dinner, grooving to piano tunes at the funky Friki Tiki, and a cozy night’s stay at the vibrant Moxy Hotel. Sunday morning, we set off for the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, eager to board the NCL Joy.
Recently refurbished, NCL Joy welcomes over 3,700 passengers. It offers a beautiful Thermal Spa, an adults-only Vibe Beach Club, a challenging Mini Golf course, an Aquapark and a thrilling Speedway for guests of all ages.
Waterfront dining enables guests to dine alfresco while enjoying sea breezes during the day and starlit skies at night. It offers guests 7 specialty restaurants, with cuisine from French to Asian and Italian to Barbecue, that can be booked for an additional fee.
In addition, there are 13 bars and lounges onboard, including a brew house, a wine bar, a mojito bar, a whiskey bar and more. Haven guests can also enjoy dinner in their own private restaurant and cocktails in one of two private bars. Take a closer look below!
DAY 1 – Embarkation in New York
Embarkation on NCL Joy was fast and easy. We breezed through document check and headed out on our traditional ship tour, pausing at fun lounges along the way to find our favorite cocktail. We started in the Atrium Bar, where a film was playing welcoming us aboard by the Cruise Director, Vincent, who wore a colorful collection of suits throughout the week.
The three-level Atrium chandelier was breathtaking as it changed its sparkling glass colors. The Observation Lounge had live music, so we stayed to enjoy skyline views of NYC and the festive ambiance for quite a while. Once our Oceanview stateroom was ready, we quickly unpacked and headed out for more fun!
As the ship sailed out of New York Harbor, we headed to the Joy Theatre where the ship’s officers were introduced. We stopped by the Welcome Aboard Party, and then enjoyed dinner in the Savor dining room where we had booked most of our meals.
Afterwards, we got our “groove” on at the Beatles Story Tribute Show. The music, costumes, and videos were so fun we couldn’t help but get up and dance at our seats to the fab tunes with everyone else! After an espresso martini, we summoned a bit more energy to hit up the Decades Dance party before finally calling it a night.
DAY 2 - At Sea
Today the ship was buzzing with an array of activities all morning. From trivia to a cooking demonstration and spa demos to photography seminars and bingo, there’s no way passengers were bored. We had a complimentary entry into to the Summer Fortune Sot Tournament. Unfortunately, my machine must have still been asleep, as the other players’ machines racked up three times the points that mine did! After lunch, we listened to music and played 70’s trivia in the Atrium.
That evening we enjoyed cocktails and music before dinner. Afterwards, we were amazed by the breathtaking production of Elements, which combined mesmerizing magic with aerial acrobatics, music, and dance. The show is based on the four elements of Earth, Air, Water, and Fire. It was an incredible spectacle of talent and visual creativity that took your breath away. A 70’s Disco Groove Dance Party closed out our evening, as we looked forward to our second day at sea.
DAY 3 - At Sea
Today started off with a fascinating presentation by ship officers about How to Run a Floating Hotel. So many details go into managing a ship that welcomes over 3,000 guests per week, it is amazing. Afterwards, we spent some time lounging by the pool, watching people, and laughing along with the poolside games and antics. Following lunch, we walked around the ship and spent a bit more time in the casino.
Dinner was excellent. Afterwards, it was time for Levity Live Comedy with Rodney and Quincy, which was hysterical. Next, we headed to Wheel of Fortune in the Joy Theatre. The Joy Entertainment Team picks players from the audience to win prizes and passengers can also rent a hand-held device to play along. They also have the opportunity to win by solving the puzzle in a certain amount of time. No winner here, but it was fun and full of laughs.
The best part of the entire evening was attending a performance by vocalist Richard White - The Capetown Crooner. What an amazing talent. He plays trumpet and piano, and sings like Frank Sinatra, all while entertaining us with funny stories in between. He belongs on Broadway for sure! We closed the night out cheering on some talented (and brave) passengers at the Adult Karaoke Blast.
DAY 4 - Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda
The morning skies were sunny as we docked at the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda. I planned to spend most of the day exploring the many galleries and artist studios located in the grand, historic buildings that used to serve as a naval base for England. (For further insight to the local art and crafts I discovered, read my blog about “Blissful Bermuda”.)
We enjoyed a delicious English lunch at the cozy Frog and Onion Pub, then spent more time exploring the historic grounds of the Dockyard. From the imposing stone clock tower to authentic canons in the mid-18th century Cooperage, and quirky British phone booths, visitors are immersed in decades of culture and tradition.
Early that evening, we caught a ferry to Hamilton, Bermuda’s capital, for their Summer Nights festival, where Front Street comes alive with music, local artisans, and the mouthwatering aroma of freshly cooked Bermudian food. If you visit Bermuda on a Wednesday during the summer, be sure to check it out. The highlight for me was watching the colorful Gombey dancers, where performers of all ages parade down Front Street celebrating their heritage and culture with festive music and dance.
The ferry ride back to the ship showcased a spectacular painted sky and sunset as we passed by Bermuda’s quaint pastel houses along the way. Approaching the port, the sight of NCL Joy shining bright for the evening was absolutely stunning. Back onboard, the production show this evening was the Memory Magic Show. The show stars Feng Zhang, a renowned magician from China and one of Asia’s top illusionists. It was mesmerizing and spellbinding, to say the least!
DAY 5 - Crystal Caves, St. George’s, & Beaches
Today, we reserved a Twizy, a very small, two-seater electric vehicle designed by Renault’s Formula One racing team. It can travel up to 50 miles on a single charge, but there are also power stations at various “Oasis Points” around the island. We decided this would be the best way to travel across the island to visit attractions and the historic town of St. George’s.
Visitors can also rent a scooter. (Which NCL advises against.) The rental company even has a “Test Track” area for renters unfamiliar with driving one. It was comedic watching the training antics of renters! The roads are narrow with few passing lanes for most of the journey around the island. I was glad we rented a Twizy!!
Stop one was at Crystal Caves. This subterranean guided tour engulfs visitors with beautiful hanging stalactites and rising stalagmites surrounding a deep, crystal-clear lake. It feels otherworldly and is a remarkable celebration of nature’s glory.
Just a short distance away is the infamous Swizzle Inn, home to Bermuda’s famous Rum Swizzle cocktail. Afterwards, we crossed the street for a treat at the popular Bailey’s Ice Cream Parlour, offering an amazing array of ice cream, sherbet, and sorbet flavors. All treats are homemade onsite. Don’t miss it!
Next, it was on to the charming, cobblestoned town of St. George’s, where we discovered more local artist galleries, and relaxed at the historic White Horse Pub. After St. George’s, we stopped at Tobacco Bay, a popular beach with shallow sparkling water, magnificent rock formations, and most importantly, cold libations and lounge chairs.
Since Tobacco Bay closed at 5 pm, they recommended we continue to a beautiful beach with a cozy little snack shack that mostly locals know about. Just a handful of people were on the beach enjoying the pink sand and aquamarine waters surrounded by craggy rock formations. I was delighted to find a sparkling piece of green sea glass in the pink sand that reflected the age-old beauty of this remarkable spot.
DAY 6 - At Sea
Since the ship didn’t depart until 1 PM that day, we went back ashore for some last-minute shopping at the Royal Naval Dockyard. The weather was turning gloomy and windy, and eventually we were caught in a downpour of rain. So, we returned once again to the Frog and Onion Pub for Bermuda’s famous Dark and Stormy rum drink, which warmed us to perfection!
Back on board, we listened to music in the Atrium, visited the casino, and got ready for dinner. Tonight, we dined at a signature restaurant, Tepanyaki. The chef entertained us with his culinary antics and singing. Such a fun dining experience! The food was plentiful and delicious.
After dinner, we enjoyed the Perfect Couple’s Game Show, and another Levity Comedy Show, then wrapped up our evening at the Glow Party on Pool Deck. Passengers wear white and fluorescent colors while dancing under the stars. However, due to the wind and cold……we didn’t last long!
DAY 7 - At Sea
On our last day of the cruise, we relaxed on the ship and played in the final Slot Tournament. Nope. No winner. After lunch, I attended a Wine & Cheese Perfect Pairing, which again, was unique to other tastings I’ve attended.
The afternoon featured a production show called The Broadway Series: 80’s Edition, where all of the Joy production vocalists perform together. They sing popular 80’s show tunes from the classics to hidden gems. The highlight for me was the chance to see Richard White perform again. The show was spectacular!
DAY 8 - Disembarkation
Disembarkation went fairly smoothly. They kept the very long lines moving pretty well, however it was obvious that many passengers joined the line before their group was called. Not cool.
This cruise to Bermuda on NCL’s Joy was truly an unforgettable adventure filled with music, dancing, laughter, stunning island beauty, and of course, shopping for treasures crafted by local artisans.
I especially appreciated the opportunity to spend two nights docked in Bermuda so we could fully enjoy island events, food, and nightlife ashore. Plus, I had more time to get to know the island’s talented artisans! I look forward to returning to Bermuda soon to discover more of what this blissful, festive island has to offer!
Come along with me on my next voyage aboard the Sapphire Princes. We will cruise for 10 days from Ft. Lauderdale to the picturesque Southern Caribbean islands of St. Thomas, Dominica, Martinique, St. Kitts, and Antigua.
Till then, keep cruisin’ through life, discovering your own special Things!
CHEERS!
