We recently had the chance to sail Disney Dream, minus the Dependent. Other than not needing to keep track of our bundle of joy as she explored the ship with cruise friends, it also meant we were free to do some of the activities and adventures not regularly possible when our Party of Two is sailing as a Party of Three.
The Rigid Hull Snorkeling Adventure – Adults Only Departure is just one of those activities.
We were lucky enough to have a Double Dip cruise – two stops at Castaway Cay – on account of the weather on the first island day caused all excursions and Port Adventures to be cancelled. (No worries, once aboard at day’s end, we bounced over to the Port Adventures desk and re-booked for the second day on the island, whew!)
The weather was pristine on the second island day, and we were the last trip of the day, departing at 1:30pm from the dock (which is the first turnout along the path once you disembark the ship).
We dropped off our shoes and donned life jackets before hopping aboard the small water craft for the five-ish minute ride out to the snorkel site. There, we’re outfitted with a snorkel, mask and fins – or you’re welcome to use your own (but not those from the daily rental Castaway shacks), and one by one hopped into the water. One of the crew (call him the First Mate) dove in and swam about with us, the Skipper remained on board to keep an eye on everything.
Even with a modest breeze and currents, the water was fairly clear. The currents, of course, did mean there was enough kicking needed to prevent yourself from drifting too far from the boat… but I found a half-minute of kicking took me up-current of the boat, and I could float, enjoy, and photograph as I drifted.
After drifting a distance down-current of the boat, I’d just repeat.) If you grow tired, you’re able to swim up and hang onto the boat, the anchor line, or climb back aboard at anytime.
The one surprise for me were this little fellas – the bright green isn’t plant life, it’s a swarm of fish.
As the clock began to narrow in on the two-hour duration, the skipper had one more stop in store for us… but that wasn’t mentioned. That said, it was a welcome surprise: a small island with – hands down – the softest sand I’ve ever stepped foot upon.
The First Mate hopped ashore and helped everyone out of the boat that wanted to go, and the Skipper offered everyone a (small) adult beverage to enjoy whilst there. (Bottled water was also available and provided to each guest.)
Regrettably, it was time to head back to the Mother Ship; we were again helped aboard, and motored back to Castaway, passing up close and personal to the cruise ship along the way.
All told, a great experience. As for disclaimers: yes, it’s a small water craft, and a day with even modest wind will be bouncing the boat somewhat AND make the currents a factor to both swim in and visibility when snorkeling. That consideration aside – and even with it occurring for us – it was fantastic, and if/when we ditch the tot, will be a do-over excursion.
