Nawiliili, Kauai / Day 7 - Cruising in the Times of COViD

Aloha Everyone,

Grand Princess, the first cruise ship to arrive in Hawaii in two years, was in the news. Those in the tourism sectors welcomed the event. But others were not comfortable about cruise ships while the state is under a new restrictions. 

News that a considerable number of passengers on Grand Princess have tested “positive” for COVID is alarming.  Each passenger was given a complimentary N-95 mask with a note of enhanced protocols that “guests are required to wear masks indoors at all times, except when in their staterooms or actively eating or drinking.”

Aloha -- Cathi

Port of Honolulu/ Day 6 - Cruising in the Times of COViD

Aloha Everyone,

Seeing Jeff and Jenny made our one day stop in Honolulu the highlight of our 15 days cruise.

Jeff picked up us at the pier and took us to NEX (Navy Exchange) and Army Commissary. 

After dropping J.J. back at the ship, Jeff and I proceeded to Magic Island in Ala Moana. While we waited for Jenny to arrive from her work, Jeff and I walked across to the Ala Moana Shopping Center.

Family reunion in a new environment meant keeping our masks on, but I relished every moments. Seeing Jeff and Jenny happy and affectionate was truly heartwarming.

Aloha -- Cathi

Day 4 Cruising in the Times of COViD

Aloha Everyone,

Afternoon English Tea Time is a delightful treat. Today we shared a table with two other couples.

One of the enjoyments of going on a cruise is potential chance of meetings new and interesting people from distant places. Learning about their culture, languages can open up a string for possible conversation topics. 

To have a good conversation, one must first be a good listener. Unfortunately, we occasionally are seated with people who are narcissistic and only focused on themselves.

Today we gained an hour.

Aloha -- Cathi

Day 3 Cruising in the Times of COViD

Aloha Everyone,

All passengers will be tested twice for Covid. Today a medical personnel, assisted by our cabin attendant, knocked on our door at the appointed time. The test kit we used on ourselves was different from the 5 previous tests the two of us had.

Our understanding is that for those people who test positive will be quarantined in a cabin. Follow-up tests will be given and individuals will remain in isolation until test results come out negative.

All passengers will be given another Covid test prior to disembarking in San Pedro.

Aloha -- Cathi

At Sea - Day 2 - Cruising in the Times of COViD

Aloha Everyone,

So far it’s been a rather challenging voyage for me. Since leaving San Pedro, we have been crossing rough seas. J.J. ordered breakfast in our stateroom. Interestingly, food is free unless you asked for things outside of the printed menu. 

I remained in bed and binged watching “Everybody Loves Raymond” on TV. J.J. purchased a box of Dramamine for me. Looking forward to feeling “normal.”

Each passenger is issued a medallion which we must carry with us at all times. It opens our stateroom door, enables us to pay any items on board and access our personal account, WiFi, etc. Although we heard from other passengers that unless you are on the upper decks, even their satellite signals are spotty.

Aloha -- Cathi