AZAMARA QUEST, DAY SEVEN

Sunset off Dominica (Photos: Gerry)

ABOARD AZAMARA QUEST, DAY SEVEN – It’s early Friday morning and we are anchored off the small island of Nevis (pronounced KNEE-vis). Nearby is its larger counterpart, St. Kitts. The waters here are very still and quiet, and of course, deeply blue. The forecast is hot and sunny; with more hot and sunny into the foreseeable future.

One note from yesterday: As we departed Dominica, one of those beautiful Caribbean sunsets was in the making. So passengers on both sides of the ship might enjoy it, Capt. Stig made a 360-degree turn in the water before heading out. Well done, sir.

Nevis is a tender port

Nevis is a tender port, and today we’re letting the shore excursion groups get on their way before doing a little exploring on our own. A good number of other passengers had the same idea, as we see them collected near the drop-off point in Charlestown. There to greet us was a steel drum musician to set the mood.

Among the leading attractions here are the Alexander Hamilton Museum (the distinguished American statesman and face on the $10 bill was born here); Pinney’s Beach, if you want sand and sea; the Botanical Garden, with a large collection of orchids and the Four Seasons Resort, where you can practice your golf game.

T-shirt shop on Nevis

While some of our cohorts teamed up to share cabs, others opted to return to the ship, disappointed there wasn’t more shopping or things to see nearby. Unless you have a definite game plan, or opt for a tour, you may want to temper your expectations for this port.

On our return trip to the ship, Azamara personnel were offering cold lemonade and ice water as we boarded, providing welcome relief from the heat. There was also an unfortunate incident. A woman with a cane slipped and had a very nasty fall that required medical attention back at the ship. You can’t underscore enough that despite the fairly calm conditions, tenders do rock and everyone should use extreme caution.

We are here in port until 10:30 p.m., giving everyone plenty of opportunity to sightsee. Tonight is “White Night,” a traditional cruise activity where everyone is invited to wear something white and party by the pool. The buffet de jour is Mediterranean, followed by “Crepes Suzette under the Stars.” We however will be paying a visit to one of the two specialty restaurants on board, Aqualina. More on that in tomorrow’s report.

The next time I check in, we’ll be Gustavia, on the island of St. Barts. Has it really been one week since we set sail from Miami? -- Gerry