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BEYOND the 615
I Sailed On Royal Caribbean’s President’s Cruise, And Here’s Why I Would Do It Again
Photo credit: Royal Caribbean International
[BEYOND the 615 – Travel Feature] What’s the President’s Cruise on Royal Caribbean? It’s a special, annual cruise that the President & CEO of Royal Caribbean International, Michael Bayley, plans a fun-filled, week-long cruise onboard one of Royal Caribbean’s modern, innovative ships and travels on along with the Executive Staff to celebrate all things Royal Caribbean with their most loyal cruisers.
Michael Bayley and the Executive Staff onboard Allure of the Seas for the President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)
Anyone can book this cruise. No invitation is needed to sail on it, but it depends on your tier level with Royal Caribbean’s loyalty program, the Crown & Anchor Society, as to what special events onboard for the week you’ll be invited to take part in.
There were plenty of fun activities for everyone onboard, regardless of loyalty tier level, to enjoy every day. Plus, there were more intimate, exclusive events that week planned for the two highest tiers: Pinnacle Club and Diamond Plus that included cocktail parties, trivia with the Executive Staff & hosted by Super Mario, Common Ground meeting with the president, sharing memories & memorabilia from past Royal Caribbean cruises with the President and Executive Staff by individuals, and a fun pool party. There were also daily activities reserved for only the highest and most loyal tier of the Crown & Anchor Society, Pinnacle Club, with daily meals shared together and exclusive surprises for them.
Pinnacle Club & Diamond Plus loyalty tier members enjoying a special Crown & Anchor Society Pool Party onboard Allure of the Seas in the Solarium during the 2023 President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Joe Zicari
Loyalty gains you special privileges, perks, and recognition onboard every Royal Caribbean cruise throughout the year with their loyalty program, Crown & Anchor Society, but during the annual President’s Cruise, your loyalty is uniquely-rewarded in different ways and taken to a heightened level depending on your tier status with them.
Each day I received surprises and special theme memorabilia to take home with me. Pictured are a few of the fun gifts I was given onboard during the President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)
Each day I was treated to a fun gift in my cabin or at an event that included a President’s Cruise-themed magnet on my cabin door to greet me on embarkment day along with my themed cowboy hat in the color of my choice at the cruise terminal, a bottle of champagne with a special note thanking me for my loyalty, a President’s Cruise-themed insulated bottle to take home, themed beach bag, a chocolate bar from Royal Day at Costa Maya, and a limited release 25th anniversary baseball hat. It was so much fun to open my cabin door to find special treats left for me. There were also daily drawings for luxe prizes that everyone onboard the cruise was entered in to at the largest events that week.
Watch a short video of highlights HERE.
Some of the managers of crew onboard Allure of the Seas during the President’s Cruise greeting passengers. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)
Now in its 6th year, this year’s President’s Cruise took place on the beautiful Allure of the Seas, part of Royal Caribbean’s oasis class of ships, from July 23-30, 2023 to the Western Caribbean ports of Roatan, Honduras, Costa Maya, Mexico and Cozumel, Mexico.
Allure of the Seas
Photo credit: Royal Caribbean International
Sailing out of Royal Caribbean’s brand new cruise terminal in Galveston, Texas, this President’s Cruise promised to be bigger & bolder than previous President’s Cruises with the much-awarded cruiseline celebrating 25 years of the Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program, a new, state-of-the-art cruise terminal, and the most phenomenal comeback of all the cruiselines following the pandemic shut down back in 2020 as their stock prices continue to soar and prepare to launch 2 brand-new ships in 2024 (The highly-anticipated Icon of the Seas in January and Utopia of the Seas in July.)
Royal Caribbean’s brand new, state-of-the-art, multimillion dollar cruise terminal in Galveston, Texas that opened in November 2022. Photo credit: Royal Caribbean International
Watch a short video of highlights HERE.
This was my first President’s Cruise to have the pleasure of sailing on, but it definitely won’t be my last if I can help it. I can say without hesitation that this was my very favorite cruise I have ever been on in my 30 years of cruising. Being a long-time fan of Royal Caribbean since my very first cruise ever onboard their then state-of-the-art Sovereign of the Seas back in 1993, I was sailing as a Diamond Plus tier member with their loyalty program, Crown & Anchor Society. I have so many past cruises to compare this one to, so saying it was my favorite is no small feat.
Watch a short video of highlights HERE.
As an added special treat, 10-time GRAMMY Award winner & musical icon, Chaka Khan, was onboard sailing all week with her family and band. She performed an exclusive concert twice while sailing during the 7-night voyage. Only a limited number of guests were able to see her perform in-person in the ship’s Amber Theater, but the concert was livestreamed all across the ship for special viewing parties in various venues onboard for all guests onboard to enjoy. You can watch some clips from her performance onboard HERE.
I had access to most of the special events planned, including seeing Chaka Khan perform live onboard this mammoth vessel, which was one of the highlights of the cruise for me. Hearing her iconic hit songs again and seeing her perform in-person brought back so many great memories for me as a teenager growing up in the 1980’s, which was during the heighth of Chaka Khan’s career. She still has an incredibly-powerful voice after all these years and puts on a great show. I couldn’t help myself as I stood and sang along to “I’m Every Woman”, and I was out of my seat dancing for most of the show, as well. So much fun!
Super Mario having a little fun with the Executive Staff as he hosts a trivia game with them during the President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)
This special cruise included a milestone silver anniversary celebration of 25 years since the creation of the Crown & Anchor Society, which offers the best perks for loyalty out of all the cruiselines, in my opinion. Everyone onboard was able to enjoy this beautiful, silver-themed celebration in the ornate Royal Promanade.
There was the fun day at the port of Costa Maya where Royal Caribbean took over the entire port to celebrate Royal Day with free food, drinks, and entertainment at every turn that all guests onboard got to enjoy. You can see some of the highlights of the celebration HERE.
Royal Caribbean tookover the port of Costa Maya in Mexico for one day dubbing it Royal Day. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)
The Royal Roundup, a country music-themed party held in Studio B, was a big hit among guests as drinks were served and people took to the dance floor for some fun linedancing doning their complimentary President’s Cruise cowboy hats that we all received on embarkment day at the new cruise terminal in Galveston as we prepared to sail away later that day. A great time had by all for some fabulous, boot-scootin’ fun!
Another highlight was the Garden Spritz party I got to enjoy along with other Diamond Plus tier members in the Central Park neighborhood of the ship, which was beautifully-decorated with touches of orange since sponsored by Chandon for this special occasion.
The Garden Spritz mixer sponsored by Chandon in the Central Park neighborhood onboard was beautifully-decorated and decked out in orange for Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club tier members only to enjoy. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)
New Pinnacle Club members, Patrick and Janice Moan, enjoying the Garden Spritz mixer sponsored by Chandon in Central Park neighborhood onboard Allure of the Seas during the President’s Cruise 2023. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)
The Central Park neighborhood is always one of my favorite places to visit because it is so beautiful and a wonderful place of tranquility to escape to for a nice dinner at one of the specialty restaurants, a peaceful stroll, listen to some jazz music, or to enjoy a nightcap whenever sailing on one of Royal Caribbean’s oasis class ships only.
This is a view of the Central Park neighborhood onboard Allure of the Seas from a little-known, tucked away public balcony accessible from deck 9 by the elevators on both sides. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)
There is just so much I could write about, but I’m afraid this article would become a long novel if I go on about it much longer. So, I’m going to wrap it up now! I would book this particular themed cruise again and again in a heartbeat. It was a level of amped up fun that only Royal Caribbean International, its President and his Executive Staff knows how to truly bring!
The Island Jam with Michael Bayley held at the beautiful Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort in Roatan, Honduras for the President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)
This cruise had everything, even all-you-can-eat lobster tails with a full, fresh seafood spread available for all guests on the first day in the Windjammer Cafe along with specialty procured excursions filled with unique experiences designed for the President’s Cruise only, like the Island Jam with Michael Bayley, held at the beautiful Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort in Roatan, Honduras featuring an all-you-can-eat, mouthwatering spread of local favorites, fresh coconut water served in handcrafted coconuts with the President’s Cruise logo emblazoned on it, local music, dancing, and tasty tropical drinks with little umbrellas served by an attentive staff on sugar white sand beaches overlooking clear, turquoise-colored water. It was a slice of paradise for the day that I never wanted to leave!
If you are looking for an all-inclusive vacation that will appeal to the entire family, you can’t go wrong with a Royal Caribbean cruise onboard one of their 26 ships, but especially on an oasis class ship like Allure of the Seas. From great food, included in the cruise ticket cost per person, full Broadway shows like “Mamma Mia” in the Amber Theater, an aerial, acrobatic, highdiving, water-themed spectacular show in the Aquatheater that is a must-see (on oasis class ships only), an ice skating rink by day turned into an entertaining ice skating show inside Studio B featuring elite level ice skaters from around the world, comedy club featuring rotating featured comedians, highly-organized by staff kids programs for all ages, a surfing simulator, pools, hot tubs, waterside, a zip-line, arcade, movies, shopping, live music in various nightclubs, dance classes, theme parties, parades through the Royal Promanade, trivia, bingo, full-access ship & kitchen tours with brunch, shipboard activities designed for athletes &
Enjoying breakfast in Coastal Kitchen on Allure of the Seas.
Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)
foodies, specialty dining, spa, health club, staff-led exercise classes, the adult-only fun of the Solarium featuring a pool & bar area and Casino Royale. (Don’t forget to insert your Seapass into the slot machines as you play or hand to the dealer at table games to become a member of Club Royale to earn points towards perks like free drinks, free cruises, onboard comps, invitations to special casino events, and more.)
Enjoying a cosmopolitan in the Diamond Lounge during Happy Hour onboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)
There is just SO much to experience and do onboard Royal Caribbean’s innovative fleet of ships that will appeal to all ages and you’ll never be bored. I promise! So, what are you waiting for? Go to their site by clicking HERE to book a cruise now to see how fabulous a vacation at sea can be. Whether you’re a solo traveler, celebrating your honeymoon, a family traveling together, or enjoying retirement in your golden years, there is something onboard for everyone on a Royal Caribbean ship to the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Panama Canal, Europe, Greece, Asia, Australia, and more.
Want to find out when & where the next Royal Caribbean President’s Cruise is? Just watch the video below to find out!
Launch Of BEYOND the 615
We are excited to launch a new section of FOCUS on the 615 called BEYOND the 615 to include travel and entertainment from outside of Nashville aka the 615.
Be on the lookout for a feature here soon as we started things off for BEYOND the 615 sailing onboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas from July 23-30, 2023 for their annual President’s Cruise.
The Hottest Hotel Openings of 2020
As 2019 comes to a close and we look forward to the year ahead, jetsetters have plenty to be excited about when it comes to new hotels. Many of these properties, all by world-renowned design firm HKS, are destinations themselves: some may introduce you to a new neighborhood in one of your favorite cities, while others will bring you to far-flung locales waiting to be explored.
Here are 7 of the most anticipated hotel openings of next year:
— The Otis Hotel
Austin, Texas
2019 brings the unveiling the brand new, HKS-designed, Autograph Collection and AC: dual-branded luxury and lifestyle hotels that capture the spirit of Austin. As a member of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, the new hotel will encourage guests to roam from the beaten path for an experience that is boldly independent and wholly luxurious. Highlights include a 4,000 square-foot rooftop deck — complete with outdoor pool, bar and terrace — that will deliver spectacular views of the University of Texas campus. AC will also add to the University of Texas area by providing a premium hotel experience that the community craves. It will serve business and leisure travelers alike with a lobby-level bar and lounge, multi-function space with light dining and coffee.
The hotel will provide a combined 347 rooms, 6,500 square feet of meeting space, and a full-service restaurant with outdoor seating and casual walk-up options.
Opening February 2020.
St. Louis Live! By Loews
St. Louis, Missouri
“OH! What a lovely shade of Cardinal” red thread that runs through the new Live! by Loews Hotel in the midst of Cardinal Nation, St Louis, Missouri. Like the red that runs through the veins of “the best fans in baseball”, the Hotel will have a deep line of Cardinal running throughout as the narrative that underlines the history of the place as well as the spirit of the people. We cannot underestimate the impact of a team that has injected the lives of fans almost every decade for 125 years with world series wins, firmly establishing the Cardinal’s Nation in the heart of Midwest and Southern United States.
The hotel by HKS takes inspiration from the “Gateway City” to the West, where Bootleggers, Speakeasy’s and Beer Gardens fed the culture of a gritty gang of ballplayers. These stories inform the vision for a unique location for loyal lifelong members as well as new initiates to the red bird nation. “Traces of the past” form a foundation of the new Live! by Loews as the hotel sits literally atop the foundation of the old ballpark.
Opening February 2020.
Austin Marriott Downtown
Austin, Texas
Serving the Local Community and Guests Alike, the Marriott is uniquely situated between Lady Bird Johnson Lake and downtown Austin, promoting an authentic and varied body of experiences for guests. This expression of diversity and eclecticism is represented in both the hotel experience and in the architectural language, which balances its urbanity with its connection to nature. Designed to be a shared experience for Austin’s diverse population, the hotel promotes a place where the public can come together to celebrate and immerse in the exceptional urban landscape of the city. As a natural connection between the city’s convention center and downtown, the Marriott is designed to promote and engage the public realm. The hotel is designed by HKS.
Opening Summer 2020.
Fairmont TaghazoutMorocco
Agadir, Morocco
Situated on a swathe of pristine beachfront along the Atlantic coast, the Fairmont Taghazout Morocco will be part of the 1,500-acre master planned seaside resort, 16km north of Agadir. Demonstrating a contemporary architectural expression new to this region of Morocco, the HKS-designed resort is opening Spring 2019. Its design tells a story about the transient nature of the site, from the time-honored farming and weaving communities of the Imazighen, also known as Berbers, who were the first known inhabitants of northwest Africa, to the modern-day ‘Agadirens’ seeking leisure and relaxation. The semi-nomadic Imazighen, which translates as ‘free people’, would seek shelter and water amongst the rugged natural surrounds according to the change in seasons, whereas today, holiday makers desire the solitude and thrill of surfing the waves year-round. The property will feature 150 spacious guest-rooms and suites with sea-facing views in addition to 52 Fairmont-branded luxury waterfront villas.
Opening Summer 2020.
Grand Hyatt Nashville
Nashville, Tennessee
A Premier Downtown Hotel, Inspired by Music City’s History, the Grand Hyatt Nashville Hotel serves as an elegant gateway to downtown Music City, welcoming visitors from the main interstate highway. Located on the corner of 10th Avenue and Broadway, the property is the second-largest conference hotel in the city. So that it fits seamlessly among the existing historical references, such as Union Station and the Frist Art Museum, the HKS team implemented an architectural design that is elegant and timeless – using stone based and glass light materials. The interactive design of both public areas and event spaces sets it apart from other downtown hotels. The Grand Hyatt is the first parcel of Nashville Yards, a multi-phase, 15-acre mixed-use development aimed at pumping new life into an underutilized downtown area.
Opening Fall 2020.
Moxy Austin
Austin, Texas
Moxy Austin is a 158-Key, limited service hotel in Austin, Texas on the western edge of the University of Texas campus. Sited prominently on an abandon corner lot along Guadalupe Street, referred to as “The Drag” by locals, the project is an important part of the area’s revitalization. The massing takes its cues from the external arrival sequence – both vehicular and pedestrian – and echoes the efficient internal programming. Materials are selected based on the local Hill Country vernacular with a base of masonry and reclaimed wood at the ground floor dress the public zones, while metal panels of weathering steel wrap the guest room levels above. The masonry and wood provide a tactile experience down low, resist the abrasion and abuse expected with heavy traffic, and are representative of the community uses at the ground level. The metal panels above provide a natural, ever-evolving quality. The weathering steel changes over time, symbolic of the travelers who come and go at the hotel, evolving in how they experience the building from start of stay until the end. The hotel is designed by HKS.
Opening Fall 2020.
W Nashville
Nashville, Tennessee
A New Stage for People to Play, the W Nashville takes center stage at the heart of the city’s historic Gulch District, a revitalized, upscale live-work-play neighborhood. Through iconic design, the hotel serves visitors and locals alike as a place to connect and socialize in a casual yet upscale environment, with a modern twist of Southern hospitality. The project optimizes social connectivity and interaction, not only at the street level, but at an elevated amenity level, inspired by Nashville’s love for the outdoors. The new hotel designed by HKS offers the city a unique destination where guests and locals can explore and experience Nashville’s social and music scene in a new and unexpected ways.
Opening December 2020.
Pitbull Invites Fans To Get Wild At After Dark Party 2018
Vacation pre-sale signups now open at PitbullCruise.com
Enter to win “Cruise To The Front” giveaway
International music superstar Pitbull and Sixthman, the industry leader in music festivals at sea, are at it again — presenting Pitbull After Dark Party 2018, an epic Caribbean cruisin’ bash where fans will party day and night alongside Mr. Worldwide himself!
It’s all going down from March 2-5, 2018, between Miami, FL and Nassau, Bahamas, when over 2,200 guests will join Pitbull in turning Norwegian Jade into a nonstop Latin-infused dance jam with hot singles like “Messin’ Around” and “Greenlight” from his new album, Climate Change. Mr. 305 is currently on a co-headlining North American tour alongside Enrique Iglesias with dates heating up the summer through July 6.
Fans can “Cruise To The Front” and enter a dream getaway with Pitbull, joining him on the high seas for his second Caribbean cruise. Visit PitbullCruise.com to enter by August 6 and while you’re there join the pre-sale. Any guest who books during the pre-sale will be entered for a chance to win exclusive experiences with Pitbull on board, including a photo with Mr. 305, a Teppanyaki dinner party with a toast by Pitbull, invitation to a Voli cocktail hour with Mr. Worldwide, and the chance to introduce Pitbull on stage before his Motivational Conversation.
The party won’t stop, as Miami hit-maker Flo Rida, and “sexy, sassy, and classy” dancers The Most Bad Ones, along with DJ Laz, DJ Soulman and more artists to be announced join in on the fun. Adding to the floating music festival is an onboard schedule that features two unique pool deck sets from Mr. Worldwide, a “Motivational Conversation” and Q&A with Pitbull, and a smokin’ hot dance boot camp with The Most Bad Ones.
A destination of her own, Norwegian Jade offers guests Norwegian Cruise Line’s signature freedom and flexibility to enjoy 11 onboard bars and lounges, 15 dining experiences, one outdoor pool, hot tubs, and a full menu of spa treatments. Pitbull After Dark Party cruisers will enjoy duty-free shopping and awe-inspiring architecture in beautiful Nassau. Explore your adventurous side diving into the crystal blue water with dolphins and colorful fish, or tempt lady luck in a casino.
Pitbull After Dark Party 2018 staterooms begin at $760 per person for double occupancy, plus taxes and fees. For more information about booking your vacation, visit us online at pitbullcruise.com or call Sixthman directly at 877-379-9187 between the hours of 10am ET and 6pm ET.
Connect with Pitbull After Dark Party cruisers on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @pitbullcruise #pitbullcruise.
ABOUT SIXTHMAN: Since 2001, Sixthman has pioneered themed cruise experiences, creating intimate shared encounters for bands, brands, and their fan communities. We are proud to be celebrating our 16th year and the accomplishment of executing 104 festivals, hosting over 230,000 guests for 940,000 days on vacation at sea with world class artists such as KISS, Kid Rock, John Mayer, Zac Brown Band, Train, Pitbull, Paramore, Florida Georgia Line, Diplo, Joe Bonamassa, Lynyrd Skynyrd, 311, Lyle Lovett, Barenaked Ladies, Sister Hazel and for brand partners such as Turner Classic Movies, VH1, SiriusXM’s Outlaw Country, Walker Stalker Con, truTV and others along with Sixthman curated festivals, The Rock Boat and Cayamo! Our festivals at sea bring non-stop performances, artist collaborations and a truly immersive vacation experience with fan/band interactions throughout the voyage and in port. Our home ports of call include Miami, Tampa and New Orleans to dream destinations such as the Virgin Islands, Belize, Honduras, Mexico and the Bahamas. For more information, visit sixthman.net and connect with us @SXMLiveLoud. LIVE LOUD.
Bring On The Drawn Butter! Key West Lobsterfest Set For Aug. 10-13
Lobster lovers are invited to sample the savory Florida crustacean during Key West Lobsterfest, scheduled Thursday through Sunday, Aug. 10-13. The festival celebrates the start of the Florida Keys lobster season with a tasty “menu” of events highlighted by an open-air lobster feast on the island’s famed Duval Street.
The flavorful festivities kick off at 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10, when lobster aficionados can gather at the Sunset Tiki Bar & Grille, 617 Front St., for a lobster boil that also includes shrimp, andouille sausage, crawfish, corn on the cob and new potatoes. Live entertainment and libation specials are to round out the evening’s action.
Known as spiny lobsters, the clawless crustaceans found in Keys waters offer sweet and tender meat. Lobster often is served steamed with drawn butter, baked and stuffed, in creamy bisque or cold in savory salads.
Fans can sample lobster dishes of all sorts at the Key West Lobsterfest Street Fair, set for noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12, in the 100 through 500 blocks of Duval. During this enticing festival “entrée,” chefs from local restaurants are to prepare lobster specialties ranging from tempting appetizers to traditional dinners with all the trimmings.
A free outdoor concert is slated for 1-10:30 p.m. with entertainers including Alphonse, Cool Breeze and the Durtbags performing from a stage at the intersection of Duval and Greene streets. Attendees also can browse and buy art, crafts and merchandise from onsite vendors.
Other Lobsterfest events include Friday afternoon’s “Reef & Ritas” catamaran sail and snorkel trip, a Friday night Duval Crawl of downtown Key West watering holes and a mouthwatering lobster brunch Sunday, Aug. 13, at the Smokin’ Tuna Saloon, 4 Charles St.
Event information and ticketing: keywestlobsterfest.com
Key West visitor information: fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY
Social: Facebook · Twitter · Instagram · YouTube · Keys Voices blog
Beyond The 615: New Addition To The Site About Travel
Kayaking in Orlando by the Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes a few years ago. Day excursion available through the hotel. Photo credit: Patrice Majors
Well, I figured since I have also worked in travel as a travel agent for many years and have had the opportunity to travel to many different places around the world, it just seems only fitting to include travel with this site about entertainment. They definitely go hand & hand.
Room at the Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes Orlando. Photo credit: Patrice Majors
Travel is definitely a passion of mine, too. I love the opportunity to experience new cultures, food, and immerse myself into the surroundings. Thought I might share some travel tips and favorite spots I’ve traveled to, plus futuring travel adventures I’m planning along with photos I shoot.
Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes Orlando. Photo credit: Patrice Majors
Stay tuned for much more!! First up, as you might’ve guessed I will be writing about one of my favorite places to visit domestically: Orlando, Florida.
Part of the grounds outside of the Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes Orlando. Photo credit: Patrice Majors
