Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jewel
California has a lot of dive spots, and its location means there are plenty of different places to visit, even out of state. If you’re tired of driving around and just want a vacation, however, a cruise might be just what you need. There are several diving cruises leaving from California, as the Gulf isn’t just renowned for its diverse diving spots, but its proximity to Mexico also makes it ideal. There is, however, one cruise that is perfect for the scuba diver-turned-vacationer: the 7-Day Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles on the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jewel.
The 7-Day Mexican Riviera cruise takes off from Los Angeles and takes port in Cabo San Lucas, Mazatian, and Puerto Vallarta before heading back to Los Angeles. What makes the cruise shine, however, is the surprising variety of experiences you can have both while onboard and at ports of call. The cruise’s 7-day initerary boasts of over 70 different activities you can partake in when visiting some of the scenic shores, and the Norwegian Jewel’s own facilities are a big factor. Built in 2005 and refurbished in 2014, the Jewel boasts of 13 bars and lounges and an outdoor sports complex where vacationers can play basketball, volleyball and dodgeball, or even enjoy Zumba and yoga classes. In keeping with their aim to provide a diverse and enjoyable experience, the ship also has its own built-in casino that operates throughout the day. As Intercasino explains, “Live casinos usually have a festive and pretty active atmosphere. This usually keeps the gamblers and the people inside awake,” and this serves the Norwegian Jewel quite well. Children can also enjoy exclusive Nickelodeon entertainment, and with a variety of live shows that range from comedic acts to acrobatics at Le Cirque Bijou, time spent onboard the ship can be whatever you want it to be.
The rock formations of Land’s End
The cruise takes you to a number of scenic spots, with many of them giving vacationers a chance to get up close and personal with wildlife. In Chileno Bay, past the rock formations of Land’s End, a snorkeling adventure unfolds. Vacationers can also enjoy snorkeling in the tropical waters of Santa Maria Cove, and then in Los Cabos. And, of course, for the scuba enthusiasts, there is a special stop at Las Caletas, which was once the private home of film director John Huston, as well as a two-tank certified scuba dive off of Cabo San Lucas. Cabo San Lucas’s dive sites are among the most beautiful in the world, having been protected since 1973 by the President of Mexico. Here, there is no fishing or collecting allowed, and the tranquil waters make the spots the perfect place for a dive. Barracudas, tuna, and baitfish are common in these waters, and off of Land’s End you might even meet a friendly sea lion or two.
For the scuba diver who wants to just enjoy a vacation and dive at the same time, cruises can be a great choice, and aboard the Norwegian Jewel’s 7-Day Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles, one can experience fun and entertainment unlike anywhere else.