Shore Things with Virgin Voyages
Ahoy, Sailors! Welcome back to the second installment of our Virgin Voyages adventure. While we previously delved into the wonders of The Scarlet Lady, today let's set sail into the exciting tales of our time ashore during our 5-night escapade, Dominican Daze. With port days in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, and Bimini, Bahamas, the land experiences were nothing short of extraordinary. Join me as we explore the Virgin way of island exploration.
Puerto Plata: A Zip and Dip Extravaganza
Our first port of call was Taino Bay (the guy on the left was found there!) in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Nestled between the Cordillera Mountains and the Atlantic coast, this charming port offered a range of adventures. From a Cable Car Mountain Ride and Lunch to off-roading at the Damajagua Waterfalls, Virgin Voyages had us covered. Being adventure enthusiasts, we opted for the thrilling "Zip and Dip" experience at Damajagua.
This escapade kicked off with a scenic 30-minute ride to the park, followed by safety instructions and a mountain hike. Ziplining down the mountainside multiple times, we lost count amidst the adrenaline rush. Upon reaching the base, we explored 7 out of the 21 waterfalls, experiencing everything from jumps and slides to ladders and swims. The natural beauty surrounding us was awe-inspiring. Back at camp, a typical Dominican lunch awaited us, featuring grilled meats, rice & beans, and cabbage salad—a perfect end to a fantastic afternoon.
Insider Tip: Leave valuables behind, as everything gets wet on this excursion. The guides capture moments with their camera, providing you with memorable pictures along the way.
Bimini: A Dive into Culture and Shark Territory
Sitting on the westernmost part of the Bahamian Islands, Bimini offered a more intimate and culturally rich experience. Beyond the serene beach moments and heart-pounding shark dives, the three islands that make up Bimini are steeped in history. Activities on Bimini included swimming with stingrays, a heritage and cultural tour, or scuba diving in the reefs and wrecks off the islands. Our choice? The Sapona Shipwreck & Shark Snorkeling tour.
The Sapona Shipwreck, a famed dive site in Bimini, tells the story of the island's history. Once used to store illegal rum during US prohibition, the ship ran aground in the Great Hurricane of 1926. We navigated rough waves to explore the wreckage before heading to Triangle Rock to witness the reef and nurse sharks. Surprisingly, the sharks were full-grown, making for an exhilarating experience- I was about done in 20 minutes. Our crew and captain ensured a safe and enjoyable morning with insights into the sites and good humor.
Post-excursion, we unwound at The Beach Club at Bimini, Virgin's private retreat, for an afternoon of relaxation before our return to Miami. Virgin's seamless blend of luxury, fun, and cultural discovery truly stood out to both of us. Meeting locals and discovering unique activities that would have been challenging on our own made this experience unforgettable!
I highly recommend considering Virgin for your next Caribbean cruise. With 25 new itineraries launched for 2025, there's something for everyone- perhaps in the Mediterranean or South Pacific? Explore the sailings HERE, or let's chat during a complimentary consultation to find the perfect ship, itinerary, and cabin style for you. Bon Voyage!
Hannah
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