Regent Seven Seas Mariner: Day 5, Dominica

Dominica is a port of call that’s unfortunately not on the itineraries of most cruise ships. Unspoiled, its interior is a lush rain forest dotted with waterfalls and that’s what shore excursions are focused upon today.

Back on board, it’s our final afternoon to enjoy Seven Seas Mariner since we’ll be leaving for home tomorrow. There’s no better way to spend our limited time today than in a cabana on the pool deck. Curtained for privacy, each of the three cabanas is furnished with thickly padded wicker sofas. The ideal spot to kick back and relax, unlike on other ships, here on Seven Seas Mariner there is no charge. Cabanas are first-come, first-served, but we've had no trouble finding one available. Waiters from the pool bar drop by to offer refreshments and the pool grill is nearby if we have the urge to snack.

What about last night’s Caribbean deck barbeque? We got rained on while anchored off St. Barts so the festivities were curtailed somewhat. However, the barbeque was prepared as planned in a covered area and there was enough seating for those of us who wanted to dine poolside. The “Disco on Deck” party was moved indoors to the Horizon Lounge and it was rocking into the wee hours. Seven Sea Mariner’s staff scrambled to make it all work and the evening proved to be just as much fun as if the rain hadn’t inconvenienced them.

I really hate to pack tonight… we’ve met such interesting people and this has been such an enjoyable and laid back segment of the world cruise that we wish it could last longer.