The Cruise Before the Pandemic: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Journey
This week, Mom and I are setting sail on another cruise. While it will undoubtedly be a blast, it won’t be as unforgettable as the one we took five years ago—our last cruise before the world shut down.
The Cruise That Almost Didn’t Happen
In March 2020, Kevin and I set sail on the Carnival Conquest, excited for a relaxing getaway. Little did we know, we were about to experience one of the last cruises before the pandemic changed the world. The day after we left port, the news broke—cruising was shutting down indefinitely due to COVID-19.
With uncertainty looming, we took precautions:
✔️ Packed masks, disinfecting wipes, and hand sanitizer
✔️ Carried a small arsenal of medications—just in case
✔️ Kept up with the news as updates poured in
Even with the underlying anxiety, we boarded the ship, hopeful for one last escape to paradise.
Trying to Enjoy the Voyage Amid Uncertainty
For a week, we tried to tune out the real world, but it was impossible to ignore completely. Conversations buzzed with “what-ifs”—no one knew what kind of world we’d return to.
Yet, something beautiful happened. Instead of panic, there was a shared sense of optimism. Passengers collectively decided to embrace the present moment, making the most of what might be our last bit of normalcy for a long time.
And what a trip it was.
Exploring Roatán: Holding a Sloth & Monkey Mischief 🦥🐒
One of the most unforgettable moments was in Roatán, Honduras—a destination that felt like stepping into a Caribbean paradise.
🌿 Holding a sloth was an absolute dream! These adorable creatures are even slower and sweeter in real life than I imagined.
🙊 Meanwhile, Kevin had a different kind of wildlife encounter—a mischievous monkey managed to pick his pockets clean! Our guide laughed, saying it happens more often than you’d think.
Our local tour guide was fantastic, ensuring we saw all the must-visit spots in Roatán.
Returning to a Changed World
As we neared the end of our Carnival Conquest cruise, reality set in. News alerts flooded our phones:
📢 Toilet paper shortages
🥩 Meat supply disruptions
🚪 Businesses closing overnight
Disembarking in Florida, restrictions were still minimal, so we were able to dine out and stay in a hotel. But when we flew into Cincinnati (which is actually in Kentucky!), we weren’t even sure if the bridge to Ohio would be open.
It was a surreal moment—stepping off a cruise and into a completely different world.
How COVID-19 Changed the Travel Industry
The losses from that time extended far beyond canceled cruises:
❌ Jobs disappeared
❌ Kids lost valuable school years
❌ Small businesses closed, never to return
Even more heartbreaking? The division grew.
People who once “agreed to disagree” became hostile. I even had someone—who I thought was a friend—tell me they hoped I got COVID because they disagreed with a decision I made.
Why I Cruise Now More Than Ever
That once-in-a-lifetime cruise taught me an important lesson: life is about joy, adventure, and connection.
Now, I take every chance I get to:
🌍 Explore new places
👫 Meet incredible people
⚓ Create lasting memories
So, off we go again—another cruise adventure awaits! Another chance to listen, learn, and connect. Because at the end of the day, no matter where we come from, we all share the same human experience.
FAQs About Cruising Before & After COVID-19
Was cruising safe in early 2020?
Cruising in early 2020 had health concerns, but strict sanitation protocols were in place. However, the industry completely shut down in March 2020 as a precaution.
What happened to cruises during the pandemic?
For nearly two years, the cruise industry was paused. Ships remained docked, and major cruise lines lost billions of dollars.
Is Carnival Conquest still sailing today?
Yes! Carnival Conquest is back in service, offering exciting Caribbean cruise itineraries.
Why do people love cruising?
Cruising offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, allowing travelers to explore multiple destinations without the hassle of hopping between hotels.
Final Thoughts
🚢 If you’re dreaming of a cruise adventure, don’t wait. Life is unpredictable—book the trip, take the adventure, and make the memories.
📌 Have you ever had an unforgettable cruise experience? Share your story in the comments!