Mexican Riviera Cruise
Article By: Greg and Fran Earhart - October 2004
WOW! What a cruise it was. At the helm were our fabulous tour director Don Miller and his charming wife Sally. Attendees:
On Saturday , 23 October, we were all welcomed aboard the Diamond Princess the largest ship on the Pacific Ocean bound for Puerto Vallarta , Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas. In seven days we traveled a total distance of 2,268 Nautical Miles. Weather was rather warm.
Saturday was basically a day of orientation. This ship was so large it was difficult to tell if you were heading to the bow or stern; port or starboard. It contained six dinning room and offered two types of dining options. Entertainment was endless. The ship contained a full size Theater, bars, five lounges, and a Grand Casino just to list a few.
Saturday , Sunday , and Monday we were at sea all having a great time enjoying the company of our group as well as developing new relationships, and meeting old comrades.
Don Miller arranged an afternoon meeting location in the Skywalker Lounge were our group could meet and share daily experiences and individual itineraries for the days to follow. Around five o'clock each day we would gather for our social hour at the closest bar. Don Miller arranged dining reservations each night for those who desired it. Again that Don was on top of things. We all appreciated his willingness to make our trip a memorable one.
Bev Marsh and Sheila Plotkin took full advantage of the line dance classes. These girls are really good. I think they were really looking for a wealthy cowboy.
On Tuesday we arrived at Puerto Vallarta , a small and remote agricultural village. Many adventures were available such as coastal drives, horseback riding, jungle expeditions, golf, and swimming with the dolphins. Glen and Sharon Johnson, Piet and Judi Dwinger had the experience of a life time to get into a body of water with such large mammals. It was a day Judi will never forget. Dick and Carmen Smith, Fran and I (through the slick negotiating skills of Dick) had a “double decker” bus all to our self's for a tour of the village. What a day.
During the evening the ship made way to our next destination Mazatlan . Mazatlan rests on a peninsula with a natural bay and sheltered harbor. Upon arrival our groups divided. Some just went shopping, others went to the Pacifico Brewery; saw the Highlights and Papantla Flyers. Don Miller, Art and Olive Moore, Doc and Darlene Ingwersen, Bruce and Joanie Harris, and Fran and I decided to see the coast line and central city by Van. Our number one negotiator Don and the group settled on a package deal. What a package deal it was. An accident occurred half way though the tour. Luckily no one was injured. What a thrill it was trying to get back to the ship on time. Doc was the leader of the pack. Don was uncertain what was going on. Nine people in three taxies all going crazy with drivers that did not speak any English. What a day.
Later that evening after a delightful dinner and a few drinks the group decide to go the “Krazy Karaoke Kapers”. Man the music got a hold of Glen Johnson. What an entertainer. Wow! Can Glen sing, Johnny Cash as nothing on Glen. He even received a standing ovation and imbursement to Sharon . Our hats are off to you Glen. Art Moore sang a dedicated song to his lovely wife Olive. I heard it was an anniversary song. Art's in love. The group had a lot of fun.
Thursday – arrival was early. Tenders were available to transport you to shore. Los Cabos is not actually a town. It is a name that Mexican tourism officials bestowed upon two once remote Baja California communities: Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. Cabo was truly one of my most liked destinations. It was clean, friendly, and scenic.
Dick and Carmen Smith and Fran and I enjoyed an excellent breakfast at a shore side restaurant; continued our visit with a stroll through its quaint shops and modern mall. Dick and Carmen ventured out to sea to see the main attraction Cabo San Lucas famed rock arches, where the Pacific meets the Gulf of California . Fran and I went to the ship to partake of its offered entertainment. Fran entered a slot tournament and lost a whole twenty dollars. She had a great time.
Friday was a day at sea making our way back to Los Angles. It was time to rest, dine, drink, and enjoy the company of the group. We also had to pack so all our luggage could be in the passageway to be picked up by 10:00 PM.
Saturday – Disembarkation and back to home and reality again. We will all remember a very enjoyable week with good friends, good food, great entertainment, perfect weather, and calm seas (at least most of the time) Who could ask for more.
Picture Link