This is part of a series regarding a cruise on the Norwegian Epic to 3 different countries.
After visiting Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, our ship moved to the final port -- Cozumel in Mexico. My friend and I love history, so we booked a full day tour to view some ruins in Tulum -- approximately 3 hours by bus and boat from Cozumel.
The boat crossing from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen would take about 40 minutes and we were warned numerous times that the crossing would be rough; regardless, many staff on the ship offered margaritas to passengers at 9am!
Tulum was a pre-Mayan port town; now, it is a park showcasing the ruins of this once, thriving community. On the bus, our guide explained the writing system (similar to Egyptian hieroglyphics) and black stone carvings.
Scenes from Tulum and Playa del Carmen:
Bottom row -- the very famous beach at Tulum, with cliff views of the ruins
My friend was a bit disappointed, as she had wanted to see large, fully restored pyramids. Tulum offered only ruins and remains of these former structures. Regardless, the grounds of the park were beautiful. Upon our 6pm return to Playa del Carmen, we were rewarded with a blue sunset.
Tulum sign / the beach at Playa del Carmen
Bottom rows: ruins at Tulum, writing system and a stone tunnel
Returning to the ship, my friend and I quickly ate dinner and headed to the comedy club for a special "meet-and-greet" featuring the cast of Blue Man -- the show which was featured on the ship. I learned one of the cast was Canadian (yay!) and listened to the cast explain how they were selected, trained for the show, etc. It was really great to meet the men "behind the blue face paint".
Blue Man musicians and cast members / carved watermelons:
Following the stop in Mexico, the Epic spent another full day at sea, before finally returning to Miami Port. My dad, who was not too keen on going on the cruise at first, changed his mind completely after this experience. While cruising is not for everyone, if you prefer a laid-back holiday, with no fancy dress, or strict dining rules, then Norwegian Cruise Line is the right choice for you. ^_^
Happy cruising!
Information
If historical ruins aren't your thing, head to the beach there -- it's beautiful! PHOTOS of the beach. (via Google image search)
Location
Map HERE. 2 ~ 3 hours drive from Cancun, Mexico.
Guided tours from Cancun are approximately $65 ~ 80 USD per person.
Best time to visit
Between October & December -- post-hurricane season and low hotel prices.
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