We had breakfast with Mom and Pop (who’d happened be there already) in the Garden Cafe. It was pretty good, especially the waffle station. After breakfast, we put E in the stroller and explored a bit more of the ship. Overall, Dawn is very nice.

We arrived to Samana late due to stronger than expected currents and winds. We tendered ashore by 12:30, wandered around the town (little open on a Sunday, lots of islanders selling various wares — mostly trinkets and trash), and returned to the ship a couple of hours later. I suspect some of the eco-tours would be very nice… but we weren’t that kicked about staying off ship for that many hours, as we’d left E with Mom and Pop (who also couldn’t have tendered to shore very easily in the seas today as he’s not especially steady on his feet).

In the late afternoon, E took a nap in my arms while we watched TV and enjoyed the scenery from our balcony. Mom and Pop joined us for the delayed sail away and then we went to dinner at the Garden Cafe. We made it an early evening, as we’re usually accustomed to doing these days.

The country count is now up to 30!

Here’s a photo of the Samana peninsula from our cabin:

Here’s a map of the planned itinerary:

NCL Dawn 9 Day Southern Caribbean

We’re (finally!) packed and ready to go. As regular readers will know, Libby and I pack light. Very light.

Our new world traveler, Emerson: not so much on the light packing!

1 baby = five (FIVE!) pieces of luggage and related gear
2 parents = one mid-size suitcase (also crammed with baby gear) and a small backpack for camera/electronics

Wow. We had a baby, but now I need a sherpa!