I made it onboard safely and we are underway. Our first full day is a sea day, where we are sailing south around Florida, north of Cuba, on our way to Cozumel tomorrow. I’ve found that a great thing, as it gives me a whole day to explore the ship. The Silver Moon holds almost double the passengers compared to the Silver Whisper, my 2019 world cruise ship. With that is double the restaurants and common spaces. I should have pictures of the ship for you the next sea day.

Because today is about food.

The first night I was all worn out from traveling, so I went straight for comfort food. Silversea was originally an Italian line, so you can trust the pasta. This ship has a dedicated pizza oven, so I picked the classic calzone.

The next morning was a mile walk on the top deck above the pool (more about that soon), quick shower, buffet breakfast and then attending the morning lectures.

• First was the destination lectures, with information about our next few ports
• Then a retired UK-ambassador described his now-wife’s experiences in early 1970s Cuba
• Finally, a retired senior US official of the Panama Canel Zone gave a rundown of the early history of the construction of the Canal

All the speakers were very good. I’m going to enjoy the lectures during sea days.

Lunch was back at the buffet where I had the pasta of the day, finishing off with raspberry gelato.

The afternoon had my first experience of the SALT kitchens, a series of teaching programs focused on local cusine as we sail around South America.

Today was Caribbean traditional “Johnny Cakes” and fish hash. Johnny cakes are freshly fried dough, sliced sandwich style. The diced fish and spices are the topping. For 30 minutes of work (the ship prepped the vegetables, fish and dough), it was quite tasty.

A good first day. Tonight is our first formal night, where after the Captain’s introduction I plan to the restaurant that is focusing on Cuban cuisine. My mother, who was born in Key West, always enjoyed making her childhood favorite Cuban dishes for us while I was growing up.

I will end this post was a disappointing note. For security reasons (local political protests) both my Chitzen Itza and Manchu Pichu trips have been cancelled. I’m crushed, as both trips were a highlight of this trip for me. Well, more reasons to return some day.