WVU Students
Get away for next spring break to the Bahamas or Mexico on a cruise!!
Don’t spend next year at Spring Break going to the same old dull places!!! We at Cruise Planners of Morgantown have reserved two different ships going to either the Bahamas or Mexico just for WVU students!!
The first cruise available is a 5 day cruise leaving on March 19, 2011 sailing on the Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas out of Tampa and visiting Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico and returning to Tampa. The cost for this cruise starts at only $610.19* per person (includes taxes and fees!!). This ship has a rock climbing wall, 10-story glass-constructed Centrum, glass elevators facing the sea, sports court with basketball/volleyball court, The Colony Club, a unique British colonial-style lounge with self-leveling pool tables, themed bars and lounges, Casino Royale, indoor/outdoor country club with golf simulator, and a day spa and fitness center to keep you busy.
The second cruise available is a 4 day cruise leaving on March 21, 2011 sailing on the Norwegian Sky out of Miami and visiting Freeport, Nassau, Great Stirrup Cay, and return to Miami. The cost for this cruise starts at $431.62* per person (includes taxes and fees!!). Norwegian Sky has 10 distinct dining options, 10 bars and lounges, a sprawling spa, 2 pools, Second City Comedy shows, and a movie theater will keep you very well entertained.
You will need a passport to go on either of these cruises. Click Passport Information to see how to obtain a passport.
*Must have at least 1 person aged 21 or over per stateroom, quoted price includes 2 per inside stateroom and occupancy includes up to 4 per stateroom with 3rd and 4th occupant with discounted rates. Ocean view rooms are available, call for pricing. $100 deposit required with remaining balance due by December 1st 2010 (payment options available).
Here is a description of the ports visited by the cruise ships:
Royal Caribbean Radiance of the Seas Cruise ports:
Tampa
Tampa is renowned for terrific boating, fishing and swimming. But theres so much more, with the fascinating old-world culture of Ybor City, and of course, Busch Gardens -- 300 acres of rides, animal exhibits and live entertainments.
Attractions
For a little fun, head down to Ybor City, the Cuban district of Tampa, which used to be the center of production of hand-rolled cigars. Today this restored area is teeming with restaurants, shops and bars. It's also a National Historic Landmark District with amazing wrought-iron balconies, globe street lights, brick-lined walkways and the majestic architecture of the old cigar factories.
Activities
- Explore Africa, with zebras, giraffes, elephants and more, all roaming free in natural surroundings at Busch Gardens, a 330-acre zoo and theme park.
- Visit the Channelside Shops and the Florida Aquarium, home to an incredible 4,500 animal and plant species. The Aquarium has a wetlands area, activities for the whole family and the only diving shark tank of its kind.
- Visit St. Petersburg's impressive Salvador Dali Museum, which houses the largest collection of Dali's work outside of Spain.
- Head to the beautiful, powdery white beaches of nearby St. Petersburg and Sarasota.
Cozumel
The crystal clear water surrounding Cozumel makes it a favorite for divers and sun-seekers from around the world. Found on the Yucatan peninsula, it is the largest of Mexicos islands and steeped in history, tracing Mayan descendants from 300 A.D. In town, there is shopping for local crafts and dining in colorful restaurants.
Attractions
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the ruins of the ancient Mayan city of Tulúm, majestically perched above the turquoise Caribbean. The site was occupied as far back as 600 A.D. However, it was most densely populated around 1200 A.D. You will be struck by the pyramid-shaped El Castillo, which dominates the city from atop a forty-foot cliff. The nearby Temple of the Descending God provides equally excellent insight into the architecture of the Mayan people, who gained considerable achievements in the arts and sciences, only to decline and vanish for no apparent reason.
Activities
- Explore the underwater world of Chankanaab on a deep-sea adventure aboard the Atlantis Submarine.
- Discover what makes a dolphin so magical as you play and interact with these amazing creatures in Chankanaab National Marine Park.
- Sit back, relax, and bury your toes in the white sand of Playa del Sol beach in Cozumel. This destination offers all the food, drinks and activities you can imagine, including relaxing massages on the beach.
- Take a Jeep-safari adventure through the tropical landscape of Cozumel's east side. Ride through sand dunes and trails for an unforgettable experience.
- Join the Fiesta party boat for a fun-filled trip to Playa del Sol, with margaritas, rum punch and a live band setting the mood for fun.
- Helmet dive in Chankanaab and trek around coral reefs to see the abundant marine life up close.
- Escape to the secluded beauty of your own private beach paradise, Passion Island, by a four-person canoe or motorized tender
Shopping
Regarded as the "St. Thomas of the Western Caribbean," Cozumel has become one of the world's best duty-free shopping ports. Cozumel offers unbelievable prices on diamonds, colored gemstones, jewelry, watches, gold, sterling silver, and even Oriental rugs as well as Mexican housewares and handicrafts. You can find designer jewelry pieces and watches from C2K, Caribbean Hook, Honora, House of Tanzanite, John Hardy, Kabana, La Nouvelle Bague, Starnight, White Diamonds, Cartier, Concord, Maurice Lacroix, Michele, Movado and more. If you plan to visit the Mayan Ruins, you do not have to miss out on the great shopping Mexico has to offer - reserve a space on the Tulúm and Shopping Tour. In addition to visiting the historic ruins, you will visit the Lapis Jewelry Factory and Showroom.
Costa Maya
Beginning where the Mayan Riviera ends, the Costa Maya stretches along the coastline up to Belize. The Costa Maya is the last remaining section of coastal properties yet to be exploited and there are acres of coastal land with absolutely no development. The odd fishing village spots the landscape but not much beyond that. Flying along the coastline you encounter numerous cenotes and you can still see the outlines and impressions of villages that were there centuries ago.
Attractions
Experience the ancient Mayan City of Chacchoben. Largely unexplored until 1999, this Mayan site dates back to 360 A.D. when it played an important role in the distribution of such precious items as wood, jade and exotic birds.
Activities
- Check out the Mayan Pavilion Park, which has everything: Mayan handicraft centers, swim-up bars, great traditional restaurants, saltwater pools, a 650-seat amphitheater, Mayan art and architecture, amazing water sports and great shopping. For more adventures, explore the many surrounding Mayan cities like Chinchorro, Chacchoben, Bacalar, Chetumal and more.
- Take a break, relax and soak up the famous Mayan sun at Uvero Beach, complete with beach chairs, bar, restaurant, paddle boats, snorkeling and so much more.
- Take an exciting Unimog excursion right through the heart of the jungle.
Shopping
Costa Maya offers jewelry stores, beachwear and Mexican specialties such as silver and handicrafts. Great buys are also available on quality designer watches by Maurice Lacroix and Movado. In addition, the port area offers a plaza with shopping, a great saltwater swimming pool and fire entertainment. Our recommended stores offer this port's best selection.
Norwegian Sky Cruise ports:
Miami
South Florida's exciting, international city is much more than the gateway to Latin America. It's one of the world's most popular vacation destinations. With its world-renowned beaches, unrivaled nightlife, unique culinary experiences and Latin flavor, this is one place you'll want to check out. Before departing from Miami, enjoy a tour that will highlight this exciting city.
Attractions
Miami Beach is one of Miami's most popular attractions. There, you'll see supermodels and celebrities side by side with octogenarians in pastel plaid. This diversity is one of the main attractions of this area. But the wide, sandy beaches and clean, warm water don't hurt.
Activities
- Drive through Miami, discovering its rich history, then head out to the Everglades, the only subtropical preserve in North America. As you approach the park, a guide will tell you about the many birds and foliage found in the River of Grass. Then explore the Glades on a 40-minute airboat ride, and see an Indian village, alligator wrestling and even a wildlife show.
- Take a colorful tour to the world-famous Art-Deco District of South Beach. Then head to Brickell Avenue, the financial heart of Miami. Your tour takes you to the bohemian village of Coconut Grove and its lush vegetation. Finally, a drive through Coral Gables will take you past the Biltmore Hotel, the Venetian Pool and Miracle Mile.
- Marvel at the homes of the rich and famous while cruising the calm waters of Biscayne Bay on the Island Queen.
Freeport
Freeport is a sportsman's paradise with endless opportunities for snorkeling, sailing, scuba diving, and one of the most impressive golf courses in the world. If shopping is your sport you're sure to score big at the duty-free shops, where you can find excellent deals on cameras, watches, porcelain and fine jewelry. Or you can just kick back and enjoy the sun on one of the many gorgeous, white-sand beaches that abound.
Activities
- The emerald and turquoise waters of The Bahamas archipelago naturally form breathtaking beaches. Seclusion. Activity. Countless meandering miles of sand - white, or pink. Where ocean meets land here, the possible rewards are genuinely endless.
- Coral reefs. Blue holes. Walls. Caves. Shipwrecks. Sharks. Dolphins. Stingrays. The variety of islands in The Bahamas present a variety of diving experiences. Beginners and experts are welcome. Lessons and guides can be found throughout the islands.
- Championship fairways and greens await golfers eager to bring their game to a new level-mere feet above sea level. 18-hole it. 9-hole it. Double round it. Savor all of it. Because the scenery can turn even a bad round into a flawless day of vacation.
- See why The Bahamas has produced over 50 record catches. Come for big-game tournaments, deep-sea charters, or to witness the vigorous strike of the bonefish. The flats and deep waters of The Bahamas are suitable for beginners and sportfishing enthusiasts.
Shopping
If shopping is your sport you're sure to score big at the duty-free shops, where you can find excellent deals on cameras, watches, porcelain and fine jewelry. Freeport has become one of the liveliest shopping ports in the Bahamas, with quaint shops, cafes and restaurants that spread out over ten acres.
Nassau
Witness the world-famous March of the Flamingos at Ardastra Gardens. Visit Coral World Marine Park and Underwater Observatory, a place unlike anything you've ever seen. Then you can swim with playful dolphins! Of course theres the world famous straw market and international duty-free shopping too! Nearly every country of the world is represented here with countless items at great, duty-free prices.
Attractions
Take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with a dolphin. Have your picture taken while kissing these loving creatures, learn about their anatomy, and pet and feed them while standing in waist-deep water. All at the wonderful facility that is home to Universal Studios' Flipper, who starred in the 1996 movie with the same name.
Activities
- Take a break and relax on your own semi-private island. Located just a short boat ride away from Nassau, Blackbeard's Cay is surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise water, sandy beaches and swaying palm trees. Or better yet, check out the Stingray Adventure. This amazing experience could easily be the highlight of your trip.
- Relive the swashbuckling past on an exciting pirates and dungeons tour of Fort Charlotte and the Pirates of Nassau Museum. (Eye patches and peg legs not included.)
- Go on a glass-bottom-boat tour for a glimpse into the underwater world of the Bahamas. Snorkel with the stingrays at Blue Lagoon Island.
- Visit Predator Lagoon where you'll see sharks, barracuda and many other creatures from the deep.
- Dance the calypso and sip a refreshing rum punch while sailing aboard the 85-foot Yellowbird.
- Marvel at the flora and watch the famous "marching" flamingoes at Ardastra Gardens and Conservation Center.
- For an exciting adventure, hop on the powerboat Thriller, Nassau's fastest ride. Enjoy Nassau Harbor, Paradise Island and many other amazing spots.
Great Stirrup Cay
Norwegian Cruise Line was the first to offer an uninhabited tropical island experience exclusively for its passengers. Great Stirrup Cay is an unspoiled paradise of white sand beaches, majestic coconut palms and calm pristine waters where an abundance of colorful marine life inhabits the surrounding coral reefs.
Activities
Here you can snooze in a hammock under a shady palm tree or learn to snorkel in a peaceful cove where tropical fish weave around equally colorful coral and sea fans. You can dance the limbo and enjoy a beachside barbecue, or circle the island in a kayak or sailboat. This is the life on NCL's Great Stirrup Cay.
