Cordelia Cruise from Mumbai to Lakshadweep and back typically begins in the evening. For us, the journey was set to begin at 8:00 PM, and the reporting time was from 2:00 PM. to 6:00 PM. 48 hours before embarkation, we got an email for the web check-in with embarkation protocol details.
Arriving at the Mumbai cruise terminal via Uber around 2:15, we found a large group ahead of us. However, from the gate to the check-in process, everything was well managed. At the gate, they requested our identity cards and boarding passes. Upon entering the terminal, our documents were checked, and we were asked to stand at a photo booth for a family photo – available for purchase later on board the ship. Immediately after the photo session, we proceeded to the check-in counter where they provided us with room key cards and offered options to load money onto the card, either at the check-in counter or later at the ship’s reception. We opted to load money using a credit card at the check-in counter and continued with the rest of the check-in process. Despite their documentation mentioning the COVID vaccination certificate and Aarogya Setu app, no one asked for the same. It took us less than 15 minutes to complete the check-in formalities.
Upon exiting the terminal, we were greeted by drummers playing dhols, welcoming the guests. Using a ramp, we stepped onto the luxurious ship – Empress of the Seas. At the entrance, we were greeted by a traditional tika on forehead and a welcome drink, along with a yellow color wrist band, for Yuven, that mentioned our room number. Taking a lift to deck 9 and a short walk to room 9124, we discovered the deck relatively empty as we reached quite early.
Upon entering the room, we were relieved to find a spacious room, with a large balcony, that was comfortable enough for a four-night stay. A box of sweets awaited as a part of Diwali celebrations, along with ample water bottles and a leaflet titled ‘Cordelia Today’, mentioning the day’s activities schedule. After taking some pictures, calling our parents, and giving them a room tour, we began exploring the cruise.
Venturing to the open-air areas of Deck 10, we took photos near the pool and headed to the food court to have high tea as we had an early lunch. Enhanced high-tea offered a variety of foods like pav-bhaji, khichadi, sandwiches, pakora, cookies, tea, coffee, and desserts. While roaming the deck, we spotted another, seemingly newer, cruise liner Costa Serena, operated by Costa Cruises.
At 5 o’clock, a guided cruise tour began, which we partially attended until we lost the host halfway due to her fast pace. The host also told us that because of Diwali, the ship was fully occupied and was sailing with 1800+ guests. At 6:00 PM, we attended a mandatory 45-minute safety drill at the assigned muster station where attendance was taken, and safety instructions were given.
After the session, we went to the front of the top deck to witness the sailing of our journey. Following dinner, we spent some time by the pool on the open deck and enjoyed good music before retiring to our room for a good night’s sleep.
Stay tuned for more updates in the upcoming blogs, as we delve into our memorable journey!
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