Imagine boarding a Caribbean cruise only to discover that the ship has unintentionally become a floating slice of Newfoundland. That’s exactly what happened on the Celebrity Apex, which sailed out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on April 6. A humorous twist of fate led to a ship decked out in Newfoundland pride and an unforgettable party that could rival any back home on the rocky island.
The Unplanned Newfoundland Reunion
As the cruise began, about 500 Newfoundlanders found themselves far from their chilly province, under the warm Caribbean sun. Pam Pardy, one of the lucky travelers, described the scene upon boarding: “First, you grab your lounge chair. But just as you settle in, the lady next to us dropped her sunglasses and exclaimed, ‘Oh me glasses, I can’t leave they!’” It was clear from the get-go that this was no ordinary group. They were ready to bring their unique spirit to the seas.
The familiarity and warmth extended beyond simple greetings. “Get in the elevator, my ducky!” someone shouted, a phrase you’d seldom hear outside of Newfoundland. Instead of the usual awkward silence found in cruise ship elevators, there was an instant connection among the passengers, all thanks to their shared roots.
The Night the Newfoundlanders Took Over
What happens when you mix 500 Newfoundlanders with a Caribbean cruise? You get an impromptu kitchen party on the ocean, complete with spoons, singing, and a whole lot of laughter. Mark Hiscock, another passenger, shared his experience. “I didn’t bring my accordion—I was there to relax—but the party pulled me in. There was a lady giving it all, playing spoons like we were back at a local pub in St. John’s.”
The deck was alive with the sounds of spoons clinking, people singing, and laughter echoing under the starlit sky. It turned into what felt like a giant high school reunion, according to Darrin Feehan, another cruiser. “Running into old friends, making new ones—it was like we’d brought a piece of home with us.”
The Cultural Exchange
While the Newfoundlanders certainly knew how to throw a party, they also made connections with people from all over the world. Pardy reflected on the unique blend of local and global cultures: “It’s one thing to enjoy the island music, but it’s another when you hear ‘Any Newfoundlanders here tonight?’ while on a Caribbean island. It brings two worlds together in the most joyous way.”
Encouraged by the success of their accidental reunion, many passengers, including Pardy, inquired about making this Newfoundland gathering a yearly tradition. “Let’s see if we can spread the word and make this happen again because this was a lot of fun,” she said, hopeful about future cruises filled with Newfoundland spirit.
Why This Matters
This unexpected gathering highlights more than just a fun time; it showcases the vibrant, communal nature of Newfoundlanders. Even thousands of miles from home, the spirit of the island travels with its people, creating memorable experiences for everyone involved.
For those considering a cruise, perhaps a trip with a group of Newfoundlanders should be on your list. You’ll not only enjoy the tropical paradise and luxurious amenities of a modern cruise ship but also get a taste of Newfoundland’s famous hospitality and joyous celebrations. Who knows? You might find yourself waving a Newfoundland flag by the end of the night, fully embraced by the island’s charm and warmth.
In essence, a Caribbean cruise with Newfoundlanders is not just a trip—it’s a rollicking good time guaranteed to be filled with laughter, music, and a community spirit that can only be found when Newfoundlanders gather. So, the next time you’re looking for an adventure at sea, remember: the best parties happen where you least expect them, especially if there are Newfoundlanders involved.
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