Hello from Monarch of the Seas. A very beautiful day appears to be in the making as we sail towards Nassau. We just passed Little Stirrup Cay, also known as Coco Cay, Royal Caribbean’s private island destination in The Bahamas. Royal Caribbean is sending Monarch off in style as we have been invited to four celebrations of various types during our three-night cruise. That’s a lot of parties to attend, but I will see what I can do! 🙂

I am pretty certain that the majority of passengers on board had no idea that this was the ship’s last cruise when they booked it, they surely know now. Banners are up in the public areas celebrating Monarch of the Seas’ cruising career with Royal Caribbean, November 17, 1991 – April 1, 2013. That said, many were well aware, and booked this cruise specifically because it is the final voyage. I expected a big population of top tier Crown & Anchor members on this cruise, and that has proven correct. Last night’s Diamond Celebration occupied the majority of the Viking Crown Lounge. The buzz of the crowd the minute the elevator door opened on deck 14 indicated a different kind of Diamond party. A lot of frequent floaters on this voyage for sure.

This is a special cruise, and I’m happy I was able to be a part of it. And I get some fresh material for my Cruising with MJ series too. 🙂