Norwegian Joy: 7-Days Western Caribbean Cruise

On board the Norwegian Joy takes us to the Western Caribbean from Miami calling at four ports: Roatan (Honduras); Harvest Caye (Belize); and Cozumel and Costa Maya (Mexico). 

After two days exploring Miami Beach, it was time to start our adventure on board the Norwegian Joy as first-time cruisers. This 7-Day Western Caribbean cruise takes us to Roatan (Honduras); Harvest Caye, NCL’s private island in Belize; Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico before returning to Miami. A review of the Norwegian Joy deserves its own post, but for now, I’ll share this Western Caribbean cruise itinerary. 

Day 1 – Miami: Embarkation

Due to security reasons, all guests must board two hours before departure time. We had to board the Norwegian Joy no later than 3:30pm for our 5:30pm departure. Coincidentally, a fellow SDC family was also in Miami Beach before heading over to Marco Island. With the short time together, we had enjoyed a delicious Cuban lunch together in Miami Beach before heading to the Port of Miami.

To our surprise, the embarkation process was a breeze. There are baggage handlers who take your bags when you arrive and will deliver it to your stateroom. The airline-style check-in counters were speedy and efficient. 15 minutes later, we were on board the Norwegian Joy, did our mandatory muster drill, and made a beeline to the Observation Deck to check out the views. 

We waved goodbye to Miami from our room balcony, enjoying the glittering skyline of Downtown Miami in the distance. 

Day 2 – At Sea

It was a leisurely day at sea where we just relaxed, enjoying the ocean views. In terms of health and wellness, there’s a gym with fitness classes, jogging track, spa, and thermal suite (adults only). For kids, there is the  kids/teens club, splash park, water slides, go kart, mini golf, arcade, theatre and more. Then for adults, there is a casino, live music, art gallery, shopping, bars, lounges, and more. Norwegian issues The Daily, a schedule of activities throughout the day from dawn to dusks. There are tons of things to do on board the Norwegian Joy — you can’t be bored!

It was Easter Sunday and NCL hosted an afternoon family event and egg hunt for the kids which was fun for the little ones. After dinner, Lady Yeya went to Kids Club for a few hours whilst we enjoyed drinks and live music at the District Brew House. 

Day 3 – Roatan, Honduras

Bright and early, the Norwegian Joy pulled up to Croxen Hole in Roatan, an oblong island off the coast of Honduras. The disembarkation was busy but Norwegian was quick and orderly to get people off the ship for their excursions. We were lucky being the only ship docked in Roatan that day which meant less crowds and no traffic. Of all the port calls, we were most excited about visiting Roatan after hearing great things about its natural beauty, stunning beaches, and friendly locals. Being on the MesoAmerican Reef, Roatan is a popular destination for diving and snorkelling. 

We pre-booked the Fun-n-Sun tour with Victor Bodden which included a visit to the monkey and sloth sanctuary and an afternoon visit to West Bay. This excursion was definitely the highlight! We were able to get up close and personal with playful monkeys, colourful parrots, and even hugged a sloth. 

Then on to West Bay, a beautiful beach with calm waters and powdery white sand, where we had a chilled afternoon. Kenz got an hour-long beachside massage for $25USD, whilst Lady Yeya and I visited local beachfront artisan shops. From what I can see, Roatan doesn’t have mass tourism, just some B&B dotted along the coastline. It has a low-key chilled vibe, very similar to Brazil’s Ilha Grande from a decade ago. Sadly we had to say adios to Roatan. Muchas gracias for a lovely day visiting this beautiful island. 

Day 4 – Harvest Caye, Belize

Harvest Caye is a private island used exclusively for Norwegian Cruise Line’s guests. It is not the ‘real’ Belize, but an extension of the cruise ship on land. But still, I’d happily take an idyllic tropical island. For the adrenaline junkies, there are numerous excursions such as zip-lining, paddleboarding, canoeing, snorkelling and more. 

Otherwise, a visit to Harvest Caye is all about relaxation at the enormous pool or at the nearby white sand beach. There is ample space and no shortage of sun loungers here. Young children will enjoy the shaded Splash Zone, Nature Centre, and Butterfly House. It was a nice place to chill out and soak up the Caribbean sun with a few mojitos. 

Day 5 – Cozumel, Mexico

Kenz and I visited Playa del Carmen and Cozumel in 2013 so were less keen on booking excursions for these two Mexican ports. If your Western Caribbean cruise includes a visit to Cozumel, the cruise ship will dock at either: Punta Langosta (closest to San Miguel), Puerta Maya or the International Pier. Much to my disappointment, Norwegian docked at Puerta Maya instead of Punta Langosta due to a schedule change. Such a shame as I was looking forward to a self-guided foodie tour in search of the best taco in San Miguel. 

We changed up our plans and took a short taxi ride to The Money Bar Beach Club for some snorkelling, ceviche, and a cold cerveza. There was no beach here but guests were able to swim and snorkel off the pier. The crystalline water was too choppy for Lady Yeya unfortunately, but Kenz and I enjoyed the snorkelling experience with lots of tropical fish. By late afternoon, it was time to say “hasta luego” and back onboard the Norwegian Joy. 

Day 6 – Costa Maya, Mexico

The last port of call took us to Costa Maya, about two hours south of Tulum. This was my least favourite port as it was far too busy. As we didn’t book any excursions, the plan was then to check out the shops and hang out by the pool. Bad idea!  Between the four cruise ships, there were around 12,000-16,000 passengers that day. Yes, it was very chaotic. We aborted plans and stayed on the ship instead for a few hours of lounging by the pool. It was much quieter compared to sea days with only a few bars and restaurants open.

Day 7 – At Sea

There is something special about being on the vast wide open sea. On our last full day at sea, the plan was to do just that – enjoy the views of the Caribbean Sea. We snagged sun loungers facing the ocean, enjoyed afternoon cake at the Observation Lounge, dined with a sea view, and had a nightcap outside on the deck. The vibrant sunsets with hues of orange did not disappoint. Every evening we watched the sun disappear in the horizon, giving way to the moon. A very relaxed final day on board the Norwegian Joy. 

Day 8 – Miami: Disembarkation 

Disembarkation was surprisingly efficient and very well-organised. The evening before you leave your luggage in the hallway with a coloured band corresponding to the time in which we want to leave the ship. Alternatively, you can be the first wave to leave the ship at 7:30am if you can take your luggage yourself. We opted to get off as early as possible and made a beeline to the port terminal. It was quick, even finding an Uber was easy. 

As first-time cruisers, it was a great experience! Thank you NCL for a wonderful time on board the Norwegian Joy 7-Day Western Caribbean cruise.