Legion Magazine presents a series of blogs in the Witness To Remembrance series by Legionnaires and others on a 14-night Caribbean cruise offered by Carlson Wagonlit Travel in conjunction with the Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services League (RCEL). For every cabin booked, Carlson Wagonlit is donating $100 to the RCEL Fund which The Royal Canadian Legion uses to help low-income Commonwealth veterans and their dependants living in the Caribbean (Cruise Raises Money For Caribbean Veterans, November/December).

 By Sheldon Taraschuk, Carlson Wagonlit Program Manager

The first RCEL Caribbean Commonwealth Veteran cruise set sail on Feb 9. A winter storm hit Toronto on Feb. 8 causing havoc for many Legion members and cruise guests flying down to Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Luckily most of our guests made it on board in time, with a few catching up a few days later.

After two relaxing days exploring the beautiful Celebrity Eclipse, we set anchor at Aruba, part of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao). Everyone was ready to get out and explore. Most people hopped on a half-day tour of the island, but those looking to just wander around town, had the luxury of just walking off the ship for a little local culture and shopping. Our day in Aruba ended with some “Carnival’ themed entertainment around the pool.

Our next stop was Bonaire with a tour of the flamingo salt lakes, 4×4 rides on the island, some snorkeling or a little shopping. One more day at sea on Feb .14  and we storm the beaches of Grenada for a private tour of “the Spice Island” with local RCEL Veterans! Everyone is looking forward to spending time with their fellow veterans in Grenada and Barbados over the weekend!