cruise vlog Archives - Northern Viking Explorer

December 9, 2025December 9, 2025

Join Us for Belize Cave Tubing: Know What to Expect on Carnival’s Excursion 🛶

Belize Cave Tubing with Lunch Excursion (Booked Through Carnival Cruise Line) 🛶

Planning your day in Belize? We booked the popular Cave Tubing with Lunch Excursion directly through Carnival Cruise Line, and we’re taking you along so you know exactly what to expect! 🚢

The Adventure Breakdown and the Reserve

Be prepared for the journey! The experience starts with a 75-minute bus ride 🚌 to the outpost. Before you even start your hike, you’ll grab your tube and headlight 🔦. Then, you’ll begin the 25-minute walk 👣 to reach the Caves Branch River entrance. This hike takes you deep into the Nohoch Cheʼen Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve, a dense tropical rainforest area. Your knowledgeable guide will share details about the surrounding jungle plants and animals as you follow the trail.

Two people carrying bright green inner tubes walk along the rocky, shallow Caves Branch River in Belize during the Carnival Cruise Line cave tubing excursion hike. — Carrying the tubes and crossing the shallow river is all part of the fun on the jungle hike! This crossing is near the exit point, showing the beautiful, clear water of the Caves Branch River.

Once you get in the water, you’ll float through the spectacular, dark limestone caves. You’ll be guided through mystical formations that have taken centuries to form. Afterward, a delicious Belizean lunch 🍗 is included at the Jaguar Paw Outpost. This 200-acre adventure park is the hub for many activities, including zip-lining and ATV tours, but the tubing is the main event!

Essential Tips: What to Bring

Since this is a water-based excursion, a little prep goes a long way! Wearing water shoes is required for this excursion, so make sure you bring a pair for the hike and the river! Also, be sure to bring cash for lockers and souvenirs and don’t forget the bug repellent for the jungle walk!

🎥 Watch Our Full Video Guide!

Join us so you know what to expect when you book this highly popular excursion through Carnival!

Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/1qyeOxzmcjk

October 10, 2025October 10, 2025

Belize Adventure! Carnival Dream Day 4 Vlog: Cave Tubing, Rainforest, and Evening Fun 🛶

Carnival Dream Caribbean Cruise - Belize Cave Tubing Tour (Day 4) 🚢🌴

Get ready for an adventure you won’t forget! Our Carnival Dream Caribbean Cruise continued with a thrilling Day 4 in Belize, where we experienced the incredible Cave Tubing Excursion. If you’re planning this trip, this video is a must-watch!

Exploring the Maya Underworld 🏞️

Our Day 4 adventure, booked directly through Carnival, took us deep into the Belizean rainforest. We took a scenic bus ride out to the Jaguar Paw Adventure Outpost, where we geared up with our helmets and headlamps. The main event? Floating down the Caves Branch River through a spectacular system of caves. Our guide narrated the journey, pointing out ancient formations and sharing the history of the Maya underworld.

View from inside a mysterious water cave showing the river and jungle foliage near the entrance. — Floating down the Caves Branch River through this ancient limestone cave system was the ultimate Belize adventure! Who else would do this? 🛶

After emerging from the darkness of the caves, we enjoyed a delicious Belizean lunch at The Outpost in the lush jungle setting before heading back to the ship.

Dinner and Deal or No Deal 🚢🎭

The evening was just as exciting! After tendering back to the Carnival Dream, we enjoyed a lovely dinner in the Crimson Dining Room. We then finished the night with a thrilling round of Deal or No Deal in the Encore Theater.

Live game show "Deal or No Deal" being played on a cruise ship stage with dollar amounts visible. — Feeling lucky? 💰 Our night ended with the high-stakes fun of Deal or No Deal in the Encore Theater! It’s always a blast to watch cruisers try their luck against the Banker.

Ready to see this amazing excursion? Watch our full vlog below!

Watch the Full Belize Cave Tubing Vlog Here: https://youtu.be/yheL2ImVCt0

Cruise Details:

🚢 Ship: Carnival Dream
✅ Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line
⭐ Departure Port: Galveston Texas
✨ Itinerary: 6-Night Round Trip Western Caribbean Cruise
📍 Ports of Call: Costa Maya, Belize, Cozumel

September 26, 2025September 26, 2025

Our Caribbean Adventure Begins! Carnival Dream Day 1 Vlog – Embarkation & Sail Away Fun! 🚢🌴☀️

Carnival Dream Caribbean Cruise Day 1 VLOG

Get ready to set sail with us! Our Carnival Dream Caribbean Cruise has officially begun, and we’re thrilled to share all the excitement from our very first day in our latest vlog. Day 1 was packed with amazing experiences, from the moment we arrived at the port to our spectacular evening entertainment.

Join us as we take you through our quick and smooth embarkation process in Galveston. We stepped right onto our home for the next six nights! ⚓️

he Carnival Dream cruise ship docked at the Galveston, Texas terminal under a blue sky. — Galveston, we’re here! Our Carnival Dream is all docked up and ready for embarkation! 🚢☀️ Who is ready to sail away to the Caribbean? 🌴

Once onboard, we wasted no time diving into the delicious food. We enjoyed a fantastic lunch at Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse 🍖, savoring every bite before exploring more of the ship. Of course, no first day is complete without getting familiar with our home away from home! We’ll give you a first look inside our spacious Deluxe Ocean View cabin (Stateroom 1402) which, yes, comes with two washrooms! 🚿🚿 It’s truly a game-changer!

The Deluxe Ocean View cabin bed and window on the Carnival Dream. — Nothing beats a room with a view! 🌊 We’re loving the bed and ocean view window in our Deluxe Ocean View cabin.

The highlight of the afternoon was definitely the Sail Away Party! 💃🍹 The atmosphere was electric as we pulled away from Galveston, soaking in the sun and ocean breezes. Later, we dressed up for a wonderful dinner in the Crimson Dining Room 🍽️, enjoying a delicious meal and great company. We capped off the evening with some incredible live entertainment at the Welcome Aboard Show in the Encore Theater a perfect end to an unforgettable first day at sea! 🎶

Whether you’re planning your own Carnival Dream cruise or just love a good travel vlog, you won’t want to miss all the fun from Day 1! 🏝️

Watch our full Day 1 Vlog here: https://youtu.be/Q-45R1WlY1I

Cruise Details:

🚢 Ship: Carnival Dream
✅ Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line
⭐ Departure Port: Galveston Texas
✨ Itinerary: 6-Night Round Trip Western Caribbean Cruise
📍 Ports of Call: Costa Maya, Belize, Cozumel

September 23, 2025September 23, 2025

A Look Inside the Carnival Dream Deluxe Ocean View Cabin with Two Washrooms 🚢🤩

Carnival Dream Deluxe Ocean View Cabin 1402

If you’re planning a cruise on the Carnival Dream, finding the perfect cabin is key. We recently sailed in a Deluxe Ocean View cabin and made a video to give you a complete tour so you know exactly what to expect. This room has a unique feature that might just be a game-changer for families and couples alike! 🤯

We’ll take you on a tour of our stateroom, #1402, and give you a detailed look at all the amenities. We’ll show you the layout, the all-important Ocean View window 🌊, and the spacious closet space. We’ll also give you our thoughts on the comfortable bed 🛏️, the vanity, and the convenient couch.

But the biggest question we answer is about the two washrooms! We’ll show you both of them, including the shower 🚿 and bathtub, so you can see if this unique feature is the right fit for you and your family. 👪

The second washroom in the Carnival Dream Deluxe Ocean View cabin, which includes a bathtub and a sink. — Overkill or a game-changer? 🤯 The second washroom in our stateroom even has a full bathtub!

To see the full tour and get all the details on this cabin, check out our video below! https://youtu.be/b1B07jbHvk8

September 19, 2025September 19, 2025

10 Fears & Questions About the Carnival Dream (Answered!) 🚢

Thinking about sailing on the Carnival Dream? 🤔 We had a lot of questions and a few fears before we set sail on our 6-night Caribbean cruise from Galveston, Texas. This video answers your biggest questions before you go!

A photo of the Carnival Dream cruise ship. — The beautiful Carnival Dream, looking perfect in Cozumel, Mexico! 🚢

We dive into everything from the ship’s age, addressing if a vessel from 2009 feels old or worn out, and if there are enough sun loungers, hot tubs, and pool space to go around. We also tackle the question of our Deluxe Oceanview stateroom #1402 and whether having two washrooms is overkill or a game-changer. 🤯 We get into the practical details on the Carnival Dream, including the number of plugs in the cabin and our experience with the ship’s laundry facilities and their costs. 🧺

We also give you our honest opinion on the complimentary food options, the variety, and our take on the Carnival Dream’s theater and its sightlines. 🎭 We cover what our view from Deck 1 was like, whether the AC kept the cabin cool enough, and if the crowds felt too busy in the common areas. 👫

🚢 Ship: Carnival Dream ✅ Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line ⭐ Departure Port: Galveston Texas ✨ Itinerary: 6-Night Round Trip Western Caribbean Cruise 📍 Ports of Call: Costa Maya, Belize, Cozumel

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, this video is designed to get you all the answers you need before you book your trip! ✅

Watch our video for the full answers: https://youtu.be/rCR2FBXqIeQ

September 11, 2025September 15, 2025

Grand Princess Ship Tour: Your Ultimate Deck-by-Deck Walkthrough Awaits! 🚢✨

Planning a cruise on the magnificent Grand Princess? Or simply love exploring cruise ships from the comfort of your home? You’re in for a treat! We’ve just dropped our brand-new, comprehensive video tour of the Grand Princess, taking you on an unforgettable journey through every corner of this beautiful vessel.

At Northern Viking Explorer, we know how exciting it is to get familiar with your cruise ship before you even step aboard. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate Grand Princess Ship Tour – Full Walk-Through! In this video, we’re going from the top deck to the very bottom, showing you everything there is to see.

What to Expect on Your Grand Princess Journey:

Join us as we explore the ship’s most iconic and popular areas! We start high up, checking out the fantastic Sports Court 🏀 and the relaxing Oasis Area Hot Tubs. Then, we make our way to the serene The Sanctuary and the invigorating Spa Pool for some adult-only tranquility.

Of course, no cruise tour is complete without a look at the pools! We’ll give you a full view of the lively Neptune’s Reef and Pool, the comfortable indoor Calypso Reef and Pool, and the more secluded Terrace Pool. Don’t forget the tasty bites at Slice and Salty Dog Grill nearby! 🍕🍔

As we head indoors, prepare to explore the ship’s classic and sophisticated interior. We’ll stroll through the peaceful Piazza (the heart of the Grand Princess) and grab a coffee at the International Cafe. You’ll also peek into the elegant Princess Theater 🎭 and see all the main dining rooms, various specialty restaurants, cozy bars, and vibrant lounges perfect for every mood. We even visit the self-serve laundromat (because, let’s be real, sometimes you need it!). 😉

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser on the Grand Princess or a seasoned sailor, this video is packed with details, tips, and incredible views to get you excited for your next adventure.

Ready to explore? Watch the full Grand Princess Ship Tour here:

WATCH THE GRAND PRINCESS SHIP TOUR NOW!

Don’t forget to like the video, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and let us know in the comments what your favorite part of the Grand Princess is! Happy cruising! ⚓

May 9, 2025

Exploring San Juan, Puerto Rico – Adventure of the Seas Day 4 Vlog

Day 4 of our 8-night Caribbean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas brings us to the historic and vibrant port of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

A Relaxing Morning at Sea

Our day began with a relaxing morning onboard, complete with a delicious breakfast in the Sapphire Dining Room. We also enjoyed the lively Island Frenzy Parade in the Royal Promenade before docking.

Discovering San Juan

Once in port, we set off to explore San Juan’s rich history. We visited two incredible forts:
🛡️ Castillo San Cristóbal – one of the largest Spanish fortifications in the New World.
🛡️ Castillo San Felipe del Morro – iconic, scenic, and surrounded by wide open grassy fields perfect for photos and soaking up the views.

Strolling Through Old San Juan

We wandered the colorful streets of Old San Juan, passed through the San Juan Gate, and walked along the famous Calle De La Fortaleza with its vibrant hanging decorations and charming architecture.

Evening Back on the Ship

After an afternoon of adventure, we returned to the ship for a relaxing evening. We enjoyed a flavorful dinner in the Sapphire Dining Room, reminiscing about our incredible day. Tomorrow, we head to St. Thomas for more island exploration!

📽️ Watch the Full Vlog

Join us on this unforgettable journey in our Day 4 vlog!
🎥 Watch now on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VKoHJyIC6N0

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📌 YouTube: Northern Viking Explorer
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April 18, 2025

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!

November 29, 2024November 29, 2024

Carnival Firenze Mexican Cruise: Final Sea Day – VLOG Day 7

Join us for one last unforgettable day aboard the stunning Carnival Firenze! On Day 7, a relaxing Sea Day, we sail back toward Long Beach, California, soaking in all the excitement this beautiful ship has to offer. We kick off the day with a delicious Sea Day Brunch before diving into the many shows and activities that make the Firenze experience so special. As the evening unfolds, we honor the incredible staff at the heartwarming “World Works Here Show,” enjoy a delightful dinner in the Michelangelo Main Dining Room, and cap off the night with an unforgettable performance by Candice Glover, winner of American Idol Season 12. Our final day aboard Carnival Firenze was truly magical, and we hope you’ve loved following along with this 7-Day Carnival Firenze Vlog Series!

November 8, 2024November 8, 2024

Carnival Firenze Mexican Cruise: Exploring Puerto Vallarta – VLOG Day 4

Join us for an unforgettable Day 4 of our Carnival Firenze cruise as we explore the vibrant city of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. As we arrive at the Puerto Vallarta cruise port, we’ll dive into the heart of this beautiful destination, starting with a hike to the Hill of the Cross Viewpoint for stunning panoramic views. We’ll then explore the charming streets of Old Town and take a leisurely walk along the Malecon. After a day of discovering the best of Puerto Vallarta, we’ll return to the Carnival Firenze for a delicious dinner at the Main Dining Room, followed by a wonderful evening show. Don’t miss this incredible day in Puerto Vallarta aboard the Carnival Firenze, a highlight of our Mexican Riviera adventure!