Aloha Everyone,
Embarkation process was tedious, confusing and frustrating. After our luggage were collected by a porter, J.J. and I proceeded to enter the designated passenger terminal. We were stopped from entering and asked to go across the busy vehicular lane, get a green tag which will in turn allow us to go get a COViD test, which will ultimately get us a blue tag to board the ship. Whew! After staying in line, taking a free shuttle to a building about 1 mile from our cruise ship, then more lines and forms to fill out.
Two hours plus later, and after all of us getting a pre departure COVID test, Group 17, about 23 of us, received clearance to take another shuttle and to board the ship.
We learned that the Panama Canal Authority will not allow ships to pass through the canal if 1% of the total number of passengers and crew test positive. Our understanding is we currently have 1,800 passengers and 1,000 crew on board.
We are going to be tested again prior to reaching the Panama Canal.
Are we excited to be on board? Yes, we certainly are. All we can do is to try to stay healthy.
Please note that our blog posting will be sporadic while we are on the ship. Hopefully, J.J. and I will be able to find reliable WiFi when we are in port.
