This past trip was one for the books — I had the absolute joy of taking my mom on her very first cruise! We sailed on a 4-night Virgin Voyages itinerary from Miami to Key West and Bimini, Bahamas, and it was the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

Before the Cruise: A Birthday Treat

We flew into Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and took a Lyft down to Miami Beach, where we stayed at the Hilton Bentley. The hotel was chic and in a perfect location to kick off our vacation. As a birthday gift, I booked my mom a mani/pedi at the hotel’s spa, and she absolutely loved it — a pampered start to our cruise getaway.

Our Home at Sea: The Sea Terrace Cabin

Onboard, we stayed in a Sea Terrace cabin, complete with the iconic red hammock on the balcony. My mom LOVED the hammock and spent plenty of time relaxing and watching the waves. The cabin was spacious enough for two and had a sleek, modern design that’s signature Virgin Voyages.

Port Highlights: Key West & Bimini

Key West was such a hit with my mom! She had done some research ahead of time and found a local jewelry store she wanted to visit. The best part? The owner gave her a private behind-the-scenes tour of the tools and jewelry-making area — a really unique experience.

While in Key West, I found MoonDog Cafe, which had vegan and gluten-free key lime pie. It was AMAZING. While they had a cute indoor cafe, we enjoyed our treats in a small, private outdoor space behind their carry-out window — a hidden gem!

In Bimini, we spent the day lounging on the beach at the Bimini Beach Club. The water was crystal clear, and the vibe was so relaxed and luxurious — beachside perfection.

Dining Onboard

We made sure to try some of Virgin’s most popular eateries:

  • Razzle Dazzle
  • Extra Virgin
  • Pink Agave
  • The Wake

Each meal was a hit, and my mom was truly blown away by The Galley — especially for breakfast and lunch. The variety and quality of the food options really impressed her.

Fun Onboard: Casinos & Hammocks

Though my mom didn’t have any luck in the casino, I managed to win $200! Beyond gambling, we had so much fun exploring the ship, relaxing in the red hammock, and soaking up every moment together.

Final Thoughts

This cruise wasn’t just a vacation — it was a chance to make memories with my mom that we’ll both cherish forever. From spa treatments and red hammocks to jewelry tours and beach days, every moment felt special. I’m pretty sure she’s already dreaming of her next cruise, complete with more jewelry shopping and sightseeing!

If you’ve ever thought about taking a loved one on their first cruise, don’t wait — it’s the kind of experience that leaves your heart full and your camera roll even fuller.

Contact me here to start planning your next cruise adventure or reach out via email to Colette@picturemeonvacation.com