Day 5 - Bermuda - NCL Joy

Our day started with a latte and croissant in the Observation lounge. We decided to play another 18 holes of golf and visit the museum before it was too sunny. It looked like it was going to be a beautiful day in Bermuda after the rain last night. 

As we approached the course, not a a soul was in sight. The lack of crowds made for ideal conditions for our rematch. Veronica was not too pleased with her performance on the first three holes but she bounced back. She prefers the last six holes from Scotland the best. I started stronger on the six Bermuda holes and stayed solid enough to win the round. 

Next, we walked to the National Museum of Bermuda. This was our first visit to this attraction. We explored the grounds, saw the giant cannons, and took in the spectacular views of the crystal blue water. Perched on the hill is the Commissioners House that has artifacts and art on display. It is quite a large house with lots of rooms to explore. Our favorite exhibit was a stunning mural depicting the history of Bermuda that wrapped around a stairwell. It took three and a half years to finish. We made our way to the lower level and were both startled by a noisy automatic door we did not expect to be in a colonial house. I did not want to go into the dungeon like room but Veronica convinced me to be brave. I found it to be creepy wandering alone in the rooms filled with giant weapons. As we were standing looking a cannon, the loudest bang happened behind me. I screamed pretty loud and startled the older lady who entered from an outside door. Veronica cracked up. The museum is a great place for a walk and to enjoy the view.

Returning to the ship, we headed to buffet for a lighter lunch. Trivia was next on the agenda and we once placed second. Deciding we had enough sun yesterday and a rum cruise later, we went to take showers and relax in the cabin. 

Tonight, we went to the main dining room for dinner. We both ordered the lime dill shrimp starter and Chinese pork for our entree. I also ordered a bottle of wine to share. The starters arrived before the wine and while we were eating a server appeared with a different wine that was partially gone. He said this was better and poured a glass. I asked him to pour one for Veronica as well. It wasn’t the best wine but we only wanted a little with our meal. Our server came over a few minutes later to tell Veronica she could not have wine. I had to once again explain I signed the waiver and then it was alright. Veronica just looks too young. Our pork was not great. Veronica said the dish was different than on the Escape. This was more fatty and chewy. For dessert, Veronica tried the Black Forest cake which was ok. We figured tonight would be perfect for a late night Local visit. 

The rum tasting cruise was very enjoyable. It left shortly before sunset and the drinks were flowing from the second we boarded the boat. A rum swizzle was in my hand before I even chose my seat. The tour is run by Goslings rum and an ambassador educated us on the different types of rums. After the swizzle, we sampled Bermuda Gold, a liqueur made from loquat. It is very similar to Amaretto. Next, glasses of Goslings Black Seal on the rocks were passed around. He only recommended one sip and then to add ginger beer to create the national drink of Bermuda, the Dark and Stormy. The next rum was a special edition of Goslings Gold with Flora Duffy on the bottle. Bermuda is very proud of their first gold medal winner so they celebrated by dedicating a rum to her. Unfortunately, this was our least favorite. We did not like it on the rocks and thought it was even worse with ginger beer. As with most tasting, the best is last. A small sample of the Goslings aged reserve was served neat. We both enjoyed sipping it while admiring the sunset sky and Bermuda coast. More swizzles were offered but we both passed. Bottles were available to purchase which would be delivered to the ship. I would recommend this tour for a fun evening. 

We wrapped up our evening with a quick stop for some Veuve at the Cellars for me. I took it to casino and we spent some time playing some video poker. We worked up an appetite and hit the Local for some late night wings and fries. This is definitely one of the things NCL does right. We were ready to return to our cabin after a fun, relaxing evening.

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