David Parker
On February 21 approximately 75 Road Runners departed from Galveston on a one week cruise aboard the beautiful Liberty of the Seas from Royal Caribbean. Frisco Lakes also joined in the fun and our combined group totaled over 140!
About 50 Road Runners took a beautiful new motor coach that left from Robson Ranch. Taking the coach was a stress free way to avoid all the hassles of driving and parking. Brandt Travel was on board with a staff of six to take care of any problems, give directions, advise and point us in the right direction at all times.
Brandt Travel also furnished all cruisers with a free certificate to Giovanni’s restaurant, cupcakes sent to our rooms and a cocktail reception. Brandt Travel was available to help navigate through any issues or answer questions while sailing.
The Liberty of the Seas was a massive ship that had a total capacity (including crew) of 6,000. Highlights of the ship included a Royal Promenade that stretched over a football field, golf putting, an ice-skating rink, a rock climbing tower and water surfing. On an average week, 20,000 beers, 86,000 eggs and 15,000 pounds of seafood are consumed.
The first stop was Jamaica which had many taking excursions from Rum factory tours to beach adventures. As we approached our second stop, Grand Cayman Islands, the captain informed us that high winds and waves in the afternoon would close the harbor so we continued on with another day at sea. One group led by Larry “Lorenzo” Nortunen held the first ever Robson Ranch cruise boat Olympics. Paula Sales won a putting contest, Susan Parker won a timed track event and Deb Nortunen won the truth or lie event. Our last stop was Cozumel which everyone gave high reviews for the excursions and shopping. During the cruise one of our own, John Hall, won the weeklong Texas Hold’em poker tournament. At the end of the week John was the last player standing and walked away with all the accumulated pot of money. Now that is one way to pay for a cruise! At the end of the week, friendships grew closer, we gained a few pounds, we explored new countries and all cruisers had a great time. For more Road Runner events check the website at www.RRRRclub.com.