Month: April 2025

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Free Hike to Chimes Tower & Lee’s Scenic Overlook – Catalina Island Cruise Adventure

If you’re looking for one of the best free things to do in Catalina Island, you won’t want to miss this short and scenic hike to the Chimes Tower and Lee’s Scenic Overlook in Avalon. Whether you’re visiting for the day or arriving by cruise ship, this hike offers incredible views and a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown.

🎥 Watch our full adventure on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/r0q2rmITcfg

🚶‍♂️ The Hike from Downtown Avalon

Our journey began in downtown Avalon, the charming main hub of Catalina Island. The hike to the Chimes Tower is a moderate 0.6-mile walk each way, taking about 15 minutes depending on your pace. The path includes some uphill sections but is short and well-paved, making it accessible for most visitors.

As you ascend Chimes Tower Rd, you’ll enjoy unique views of the harbor and colorful hillside homes. The Chimes Tower itself is a historic structure built in 1925 and still chimes regularly, adding a magical soundscape to your visit.

📍 Lee’s Scenic Overlook – A Hidden Gem

Just a little further up from the Chimes Tower is Lee’s Scenic Overlook, one of the best panoramic viewpoints on Catalina Island. From here, you’ll get sweeping views of Avalon Bay, your cruise ship anchored in the distance, and the Pacific Ocean beyond.

It’s a peaceful spot to snap some incredible photos, relax on a bench, and take in the beauty of Catalina without spending a dime.

💵 Totally Free and Worth Every Step

One of the best parts about this hike? It’s completely free! In a destination where many activities come at a premium, this hidden gem gives you unbeatable views and a memorable experience without touching your wallet.

If you’re arriving via cruise, this is an excellent DIY cruise excursion that you can do on your own, with no need for a tour group or transportation.

📌 Know Before You Go

  • Distance: Approx. 1.2 miles round-trip
  • Time: About 15 minutes each way
  • Cost: FREE
  • Best for: Cruise passengers, photographers, hikers, and budget travelers
  • Trail: Follows Chimes Tower Rd
  • Tip: Bring water and wear comfortable shoes – some parts of the trail are steep

📺 Don’t Miss the Video!

See the full hike, views, and experience in our YouTube video here:

Subscribe to our channel for more cruise port guides, free travel ideas, and adventure vlogs!

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🌴 Adventure of the Seas Caribbean Cruise – Sea Day & Formal Night (Day 2)🌴

Welcome to Day 2 of our 8-night Caribbean cruise aboard Adventure of the Seas! Today was our first full day at sea, and it was packed with activities, great food, entertainment, and a little formal night flair. If you haven’t seen the video yet, check it out here:
👉 Adventure of the Seas Sea Day & Formal Night – Cruise Vlog Day 2

☀️ A Relaxing Morning at Sea

We started the day with a peaceful breakfast in the Sapphire Main Dining Room, enjoying classic morning favorites with ocean views and excellent service. It’s a calm and classy way to kick off a sea day.

🎉 Action-Packed Afternoon Activities

The afternoon was full of fun and ship-wide entertainment. We stopped by a Napkin Folding Demonstration for some creative table-setting inspiration and then headed out to the pool deck to catch the always-fun Belly Flop Contest—tons of laughs and big splashes!

Later in the day, we took in the Ice Skating Show at Studio B, which featured incredible performers gliding and spinning across the ice. It’s hard to believe you’re watching a full skating show in the middle of the ocean!

👔 Evening Elegance: Formal Night & Theater Show

The evening brought a touch of elegance with Formal Night. We got dressed up and returned to the Sapphire Main Dining Room for a delicious dinner with multiple courses, beautiful presentation, and outstanding service. Afterward, we made our way to the Lyric Theater for a fantastic evening performance that wrapped up the day on a high note.

🛳️ Day 2 Highlights

  • Full-service breakfast & dinner in Sapphire Main Dining Room
  • Napkin Folding Demonstration
  • Poolside Belly Flop Contest
  • Ice Skating Show at Studio B
  • Formal Night elegance
  • Live show in the Lyric Theater

There’s always something to do aboard Adventure of the Seas, and today proved just how much fun a sea day can be.

🎥 Watch the full Day 2 vlog on YouTube:

🌴 Next up: Labadee, Haiti!
Day 3 of our cruise takes us to Royal Caribbean’s private destination, Labadee. With stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of adventures, you won’t want to miss it. Be sure to subscribe and follow along as our Caribbean cruise continues!

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Adventure of the Seas Caribbean Cruise – Day 1: Sail Away from Port Canaveral

Are you ready to escape to the Caribbean? Join us as we kick off our unforgettable 8-night journey aboard Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas! In Day 1 of our cruise vlog series, we board this incredible ship and experience the excitement of sailing away from Port Canaveral, marking the start of our Caribbean adventure.

🎥 Watch Day 1 of the vlog here: Adventure of the Seas Caribbean Cruise – Sail Away from Port Canaveral – VLOG Day 1

This massive ship stretches over 1,020 feet and can host more than 3,800 guests, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. On Day 1, we explore the ship, enjoy some tasty meals, and take in the energy of embarkation day as we set sail toward the open ocean.

Throughout this cruise, we’ll visit four incredible Caribbean destinations: Labadee, San Juan, St. Thomas, and St. Croix. Each day brings something new—from amazing onboard experiences to exploring the ports and soaking in the beautiful surroundings.

Whether you’re planning your first cruise or looking for a sneak peek at the Adventure of the Seas, this series will give you a front-row view of what it’s like to cruise with Royal Caribbean. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel so you don’t miss any of the fun: Northern Viking Explorer YouTube Channel

⚓ Come sail away with us and experience the magic of a Caribbean cruise adventure!

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La Bufadora Famous Blowhole Excursion: Carnival Cruise Shore Excursion in Ensenada, Mexico

If you’re planning a cruise to Ensenada, Mexico with Carnival Cruise Line, one of the most popular and talked-about shore excursions is the La Bufadora Blowhole Tour. Known as the largest marine geyser in North America, La Bufadora is a natural wonder that attracts visitors from around the world—and for good reason!

On our recent Carnival cruise, we booked the “Ensenada Famous Blowhole Excursion” directly through the cruise line. This 3–4 hour guided tour begins at the Ensenada cruise port, where you’re picked up by a comfortable, air-conditioned tour bus. The scenic drive takes you along the rugged coastline of Baja California, offering beautiful ocean views and insight into local culture from your onboard guide.

Once you arrive near La Bufadora, the real adventure begins. To reach the blowhole, you’ll walk about a third of a mile down a lively street lined with local vendors selling everything from fresh baked goods and Mexican candy to hand-painted pottery, jewelry, and unique souvenirs. It’s a colorful and vibrant experience, perfect for those who love to explore local markets and try traditional snacks.

At the end of the path, you’ll find a viewing area overlooking La Bufadora itself. When the ocean swells hit the underwater cave system just right, the blowhole erupts dramatically, shooting water high into the air—sometimes over 60 feet! It’s an impressive sight and a great opportunity for photos, videos, or just soaking in the natural beauty.

We filmed our entire experience so you can see what it’s like before you go! Check out our full video tour here:
📺 Watch on YouTube

Is the La Bufadora Excursion Worth It?

Absolutely! It’s a great mix of scenic views, cultural experiences, and natural wonder. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, La Bufadora offers something for everyone. Plus, booking through Carnival ensures a smooth, hassle-free experience with round-trip transportation and a reliable itinerary.

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Adventure of the Seas Ocean View Room Tour – Cabin 2558 with Adjoining Door

If you’re planning a cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas and considering an Ocean View cabin, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’re featuring Cabin 2558, a stateroom located on Deck 2 with a rare adjoining door—perfect for families or groups traveling together.

We’ve created a full video tour so you can see exactly what to expect from this stateroom. 🎥 Watch it here

Cabin 2558 Overview

Located on the port side near the front of Deck 2, Cabin 2558 is a standard Ocean View stateroom with a few standout features. The large window provides great natural light and a scenic view of the ocean—ideal if you want the brightness of a balcony room without the higher price.

One of the most unique aspects of this room is the adjoining door, which connects it to the neighboring cabin. This makes it an excellent option for families or groups booking multiple cabins who want easy access between rooms without going into the hallway.

Inside the Cabin: What You Get

Cabin 2558 includes all the essentials for a comfortable stay:

  • A king-sized bed that can be split into two twin beds
  • A flat-screen TV with access to ship information and entertainment
  • A vanity/desk area with lighting and a mirror
  • Plenty of storage space, including drawers, shelves, and a closet
  • A compact but functional bathroom with shower, sink, and toilet

You’ll also find a large window positioned right at the head of the bed, making it a cozy spot to relax and take in the ocean view. The room is well laid out and makes smart use of space, especially for a Deck 2 cabin.

Who Should Book This Cabin?

If you’re cruising with family or friends and need connecting cabins, this is one of the few options available on Adventure of the Seas. The adjoining door is a feature not found in every room category, and it makes traveling together much more convenient.

This cabin is also ideal if you’re looking for a budget-friendly upgrade from an interior room. You still get natural light and a view, which can really enhance the cruise experience, especially on sea days.

Final Thoughts

Cabin 2558 on Adventure of the Seas is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for an Ocean View room with a little extra flexibility. The large window, clean design, and connecting room option make it a top pick for couples, families, or groups cruising together.

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10 Fears and Questions We Had Before Sailing Adventure of the Seas (Answered)

Thinking about booking a Royal Caribbean cruise on Adventure of the Seas but have some fears or questions? You’re not alone! Before our 8-night Caribbean cruise, we had plenty too. In this video, we answer 10 common concerns cruisers often have, based on our firsthand experience aboard Adventure of the Seas. If you’re curious or nervous about what to expect, this video is here to help put your mind at ease.

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Carnival Radiance Casino Tour | Full Walkthrough of Cruise Ship Casino

Take a full Carnival Radiance Casino tour in this cruise ship casino walk-through! Located on Deck 5 of the Carnival Radiance, this video gives you an up-close look at the lively casino atmosphere, popular slot machines, table games, and more. Whether you’re planning a Carnival cruise or just curious about what the onboard casino looks like, this detailed tour will show you everything you need to know about the Carnival Radiance Casino experience.

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Carnival Radiance Arcade Tour: Inside the Warehouse Arcade 🎮🚢

Step into the Warehouse Arcade on the Carnival Radiance with this walk-through tour! Located on Deck 5, near the casino and atrium (midship), this arcade is packed with thrilling games, including arcade machines, virtual reality experiences, and ticket prize games where you can win awesome rewards. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a competitive player, the Carnival Radiance arcade has something fun for everyone. Watch this quick tour to see all the action and plan your next gaming adventure at sea! 🎮🚢

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