Hey there, travel lovers! We’re back home and excited to share more about our Postcard Jar Friends Cruise to the Western Caribbean. We set sail in January 2025 aboard the stunning Celebrity Reflection. This six-night adventure (our third Friends Cruise) was extra special because we had so many return travelers from our previous Postcard Jar Friends Cruises joining us. Their familiar faces and shared excitement made this trip even more fun and memorable.
Here’s a look at our incredible journey, from sail away to our final port, with all the highlights in between!
Postcard Jar Friends Cruise Western Caribbean sail away kickoff
Our cruise set sail from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on a perfect sunny day. Our group buzzed with anticipation as we boarded the Celebrity Reflection. Everyone got a “Life is better at sea” t-shirt so it was easy to recognize people from our group.
We kicked things off in style with a sail away gathering at the Sunset Bar, sipping cocktails and meeting everyone as the ship glided out of the port.
This was an ideal way to start the week, surrounded by old friends and new.
After dinner the first night, many of us gathered for a Silent Disco, where everyone donned wireless headphones and danced to their own beat. We could switch among three different music channels while we laughed and grooved. It was a riot and so much fun to do together!
First Sea Day: Cake Decorating and Trivia
Our first full day at sea was packed with fun. The ship’s executive pastry chef treated us to a cake making and decorating class—a deliciously creative way to spend an afternoon.
Later, we met up with some guests of our Postcard Jar Friends Cruise to the Western Caribbean for afternoon trivia in one of the lounges. There we stretched our brains and tested our knowledge. Though we didn’t quite win, shared plenty of laughs. (We were close though!) The sea day vibe on Celebrity Reflection—complete with pool time and gourmet dining—set the tone for a week of relaxation and connection.
Cozumel, Mexico: VIP Beach Getaway
The first port stop on our Postcard Jar Friends Cruise to the Western Caribbean was Cozumel, Mexico. It’s a port stop on a vibrant island with endless possibilities. You can explore Mayan ruins like San Gervasio, or snorkel the world-famous reefs. Maybe you’d prefer to shop for colorful souvenirs downtown, or savor fresh ceviche or tacos at a beachside cantina. It’s your cruise, you choose!
For our group, we arranged something extra special for those that wanted: a day trip to a secluded VIP beach. It was pure paradise—think swaying palms, soft sand, and a spread of tacos and guacamole that hit all the right spots.
Many of us snorkeled in the clear waters, and spotted tropical fish. A few adventurous souls even went scuba diving to explore the underwater wonders. It was the ultimate day of rest, relaxation, and bonding.
Photo courtesy of Rod Kuss and Phil Oeschlager
Others chose a shore excursion at Barracuda Beach that included a guided cookout experience in Cozumel.
Photo courtesy of Brady Kappler
Grand Cayman: Stingrays and Beach Bliss
The next day we docked in George Town, Grand Cayman, where some took an excursion to Stingray City. Wading onto the shallow sandbar to swim with friendly stingrays was a bucket-list moment—those gentle giants gliding by were unforgettable. Some hit Seven Mile Beach, lounging on its powdery sands and swimming in the turquoise waves.
Photo courtesy of Shari Williams
Others enjoyed rum punch at a beach bar, strolled the shore, visited a turtle farm, or just soaked in the island’s laid-back charm. Grand Cayman delivered sun, sea, starfish and smiles.
Photo courtesy of Kathy and Larry Koerner
PIN FOR LATER
Second Sea Day: Wine Tasting and Future Plans
The next day of our Postcard Jar Friends Cruise to the Western Caribbean found us back relaxing at sea. There, we indulged in a wine tasting led by one of the ship’s sommeliers. We learned the ins and outs of pairing and appreciating fine wines—a classy and educational treat.
Later, Future Cruises hosted an event where we announced our next Postcard Jar Friends Cruises. It was thrilling to see our group’s enthusiasm for more adventures together.
“What I liked most about the Postcard Jar Friends Cruise were the private group events because they are always great. I also enjoyed seeing and spending time with nicest group of people on the earth. We only met on our first cruise but everyone feels like family. I also loved seeing places I would never dream to see.” (Excerpt from our post-cruise guest survey)
Later, we spent time at the ship’s coffee shop, Café al Bacio. The coffee and tea there is as good as the company. That evening, we enjoyed the Martini Bar, laughing and clinking glasses into the night. Time with our cruisers at those onboard hangouts became some of our favorite moments.
Postcard Jar Friends Cruise to the Western Caribbean on-board hangouts
Indeed, our group couldn’t get enough of the Martini Bar—its sleek, not-too-serious vibe and expertly crafted cocktails made it a nightly hotspot. Whether we were toasting the day’s adventures or just catching up, it was always a blast. Café al Bacio (the onboard specialty coffee shop) was another go-to. There we’d gather for rich cappuccinos and pastries, swap stories and plan our next adventures. The Celebrity Reflection truly spoiled us with these cozy, social spots.
Nassau, Bahamas: Straw Market and Sailaway Surprises
Finally, it was time for our final port: Nassau, Bahamas. We find this to be a colorful stop with a lively Caribbean spirit. Many hunted souvenirs in the famous Straw Market, where vibrant stalls overflowed with handmade baskets, hats, and trinkets.
There’s plenty to do in Nassau, from touring the historic sites to sipping Bahamian rum at a local distillery or lounging on Cable Beach.
Then, back on the ship, the hotel director surprised us with a champagne and mimosa sailaway party on the ship’s helipad. Watching Nassau fade into the distance with bubbles in hand and friends all around was pure magic.
Our Postcard Jar Friends Cruise to the Western Caribbean wrapped up in Fort Lauderdale
As we returned to Fort Lauderdale, we reflected on an incredible week. With so many return cruisers, this Postcard Jar Friends Cruise to the Western Caribbean felt like a reunion of kindred spirits. The experience was made even sweeter by new friendships formed with first-time cruisers who were welcomed by the group and made to feel right at home. We disembarked with hugs, promises to stay connected, and excitement for what’s next.
I would recommend a Postcard Jar Group Cruise to others because of the confidence in knowing that all the reservations will be made correctly. Your experiences help me to be confident in trying new adventures myself. You give great details about what to expect at each port or activity. Is really fun to travel with this group and also meeting new friends. (Excerpt from our post-cruise guest survey)
“Ann and Steve were very patient answering all of our questions as first time cruisers. They were great hosts and did a fantastic job of making everyone feel included. A person could do as much or as little with the group as they wanted. I appreciated that option, but loved the private events they were able to orchestrate.” (Excerpt from our post-cruise guest survey)
This January 2025 Western Caribbean cruise was a dream—full of laughter, exploration, and the joy of traveling with our Postcard Jar community. Missed it? Join us next time! Contact us at a.teget@dreamvacations.com or call 402-575-9624 to snag your spot on our next group cruise to the ABC Islands in January 2026. We’re also happy to help you plan and book your own dream vacation.
What’s your must-do in the Western Caribbean? Drop it in the comments—we’d love to hear! Happy travels, friends.
