Natalia Kardash
My Caribbean Cruise – Journey Through Islands and Colours
Exploration Voyage from San Juan to Miami
My journeys are not about reaching a destination – they are about exploration of new lands, curiosity to see something that I have read in books about, feeling of freedom and understanding on how big and rich our World is. I love cruising, and now – in November 2025 – I'm ready for another adventure. I will travel with Explora Journeys from San Juan, Puerto Rico, towards Miami, crossing some of the most beautiful islands of the Caribbean – Anguilla, Antigua, St. Barth, and the Virgin Islands. I want to share this voyage with you. Here, on this page, you will find my new travel journal – a story of discovery, reflection, and joy of life under the Caribbean sun.
1
Overview of the Trip
My journey will begin in Larnaca on the 16th of November. I'll fly to London, then to Philadelphia, and finally to Puerto Rico. It will take 17 hours till I reach my destination.
This journey is a celebration of contrasts – after the icy silence of the Arctic in summer, I am heading to the Caribbean summer, a world filled with colours, rhythm, and sunlight.
I'll spend a few days in San Juan, capital of Puerto Rico. Then, the ship Explora I will take me from San Juan to Miami. I'll have a chance to visit some of the most beautiful and diverse islands in the Caribbean Sea. Each of them has its own story. I am reading a lot now, and I'll share with you some interesting facts when the time comes.
The itinerary combines colonial towns, beaches, and luxury of life at sea.
The French elegance of St. Barth, the welcoming warmth of Antigua, the similarity of the British Virgin Islands: every stop will enrich my collection of memories and knowledge. Two final days at sea will allow time for reflection, for watching the endless horizon, and for conversations with people who, like me, travel not just to see the world, but to feel it.
This journey is a celebration of contrasts – after the icy silence of the Arctic in summer, I am heading to the Caribbean summer, a world filled with colours, rhythm, and sunlight.
I'll spend a few days in San Juan, capital of Puerto Rico. Then, the ship Explora I will take me from San Juan to Miami. I'll have a chance to visit some of the most beautiful and diverse islands in the Caribbean Sea. Each of them has its own story. I am reading a lot now, and I'll share with you some interesting facts when the time comes.
The itinerary combines colonial towns, beaches, and luxury of life at sea.
The French elegance of St. Barth, the welcoming warmth of Antigua, the similarity of the British Virgin Islands: every stop will enrich my collection of memories and knowledge. Two final days at sea will allow time for reflection, for watching the endless horizon, and for conversations with people who, like me, travel not just to see the world, but to feel it.
Visit this page daily to read reportage on my Caribbean adventures.
Natalia Kardash
who loves to combine work and travel
who loves to combine work and travel
November 2025
2
San Juan, Puerto Rico:
History&Tropical Vibe
History&Tropical Vibe
Days 1-4 – San Juan, Puerto Rico
They say that San Juan greets travellers with a palette of colours – blue skies, pastel façades, and the deep green of palm leaves against stone fortresses. Founded in 1521, it is one of the oldest European cities in the Americas, and its cobbled streets still echo the footsteps of Spanish conquistadors.
I am planning to walk through Old San Juan. They say that it feels like opening a history book. Balconies overflow with flowers, music drifts from small cafés, and the ocean is always just around the corner. The massive walls of Castillo San Felipe del Morro stand as a reminder that this island was once the key to controlling the Caribbean.
Yet beyond history, San Juan lives in the present — with its lively art scene, creative energy, and rhythm that makes even the air seem to dance. Puerto Rico is proud, poetic, and passionate. It is a place where tradition and modernity meet at sunset, when the old city glows golden and the harbour lights reflect the promise of a new voyage ahead.
They say that San Juan greets travellers with a palette of colours – blue skies, pastel façades, and the deep green of palm leaves against stone fortresses. Founded in 1521, it is one of the oldest European cities in the Americas, and its cobbled streets still echo the footsteps of Spanish conquistadors.
I am planning to walk through Old San Juan. They say that it feels like opening a history book. Balconies overflow with flowers, music drifts from small cafés, and the ocean is always just around the corner. The massive walls of Castillo San Felipe del Morro stand as a reminder that this island was once the key to controlling the Caribbean.
Yet beyond history, San Juan lives in the present — with its lively art scene, creative energy, and rhythm that makes even the air seem to dance. Puerto Rico is proud, poetic, and passionate. It is a place where tradition and modernity meet at sunset, when the old city glows golden and the harbour lights reflect the promise of a new voyage ahead.
3
Boarding Explora I - A Floating Boutique Hotel
Explora I is not a typical cruise ship – it’s the first of six vessels launched by Explora Journeys, a new luxury brand created by the MSC Group. The ship accommodates just over 900 guests, offering space, calm, and personal service that feels closer to a private resort than to a large liner.
Every suite has a private terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows. There are nine restaurants, twelve bars, and an Ocean Wellness Spa inspired by natural balance and local ingredients.
I have visited this ship when it was in Paphos in October. I loved its interior design by the Italian studio De Jorio Design International, and I checked its Art Gallery & Library (this is important for me as I love reading). There are many corners of this ship that I'll explore when I have time.
On the day 5, after boarding, I'll start to prepare my notes for the first port of call. And by that time I'll already post here a lot of information on Puerto Rico. Stay with me to see the World together!
Every suite has a private terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows. There are nine restaurants, twelve bars, and an Ocean Wellness Spa inspired by natural balance and local ingredients.
I have visited this ship when it was in Paphos in October. I loved its interior design by the Italian studio De Jorio Design International, and I checked its Art Gallery & Library (this is important for me as I love reading). There are many corners of this ship that I'll explore when I have time.
On the day 5, after boarding, I'll start to prepare my notes for the first port of call. And by that time I'll already post here a lot of information on Puerto Rico. Stay with me to see the World together!
4
Road Bay, Anguilla:
Calm Beaches and Local Charm
Calm Beaches and Local Charm
The first island on my route will be Anguilla – small, quiet, and known for its unspoiled nature. Road Bay is the island’s main port and one of its most beautiful beaches. The island is part of the British Overseas Territories, and is often described as the Caribbean’s best-kept secret. Why? Because Anguilla is not about crowded tourist spots or shopping; it’s about peace, turquoise water, and friendly locals.
5
St. John’s, Antigua & Barbuda
The capital of Antigua and Barbuda, St. John’s, is one of the most vibrant ports in the Eastern Caribbean. Colourful buildings line the harbour, and the first thing visitors see from the ship are the white twin towers of St. John’s Cathedral, which has watched over the town for nearly 200 years. Antigua is often called the island of 365 beaches — one for every day of the year. The island played a key role in the British colonial period, so I'll learn more about this period even before I'll step on its land.
6
Gustavia, St. Barthélemy:
a Touch of France in the Tropics
a Touch of France in the Tropics
The next port will be Gustavia, the capital of St. Barthélemy (or St. Barts) — a small island with a distinct French character and one of the most elegant destinations in the Caribbean. Although it belongs to France, it once briefly belonged to Sweden, and some street names and architectural details still reflect that chapter of history. Gustavia is compact, built around a horseshoe-shaped harbour filled with yachts.
Once a coal mining settlement, today Ny-Ålesund is an international research station, hosting scientists from more than 10 countries year-round. Norway, Germany, France, the UK, Japan, South Korea, India, China, and others operate stations here, studying climate change, glaciology, atmosphere, ecosystems, and Arctic wildlife.
Because of its clean, undisturbed air, Ny-Ålesund is also a key site for atmospheric research and part of global climate observation networks. It’s a place where science meets silence — no cars, no distractions, just data, sky, and snow.
But Ny-Ålesund is not only about the future. It also holds a place in the bold past of polar exploration. In 1926, Italian explorer Umberto Nobile and Norwegian hero Roald Amundsen departed from here in the airship Norge — one of the first successful flights over the North Pole. The mast where the airship was moored still stands, weathered by time and wind — a quiet reminder of the age of heroic exploration.
Today, Ny-Ålesund remains a place few can visit — access is strictly limited to researchers and select guided visits.
Because of its clean, undisturbed air, Ny-Ålesund is also a key site for atmospheric research and part of global climate observation networks. It’s a place where science meets silence — no cars, no distractions, just data, sky, and snow.
But Ny-Ålesund is not only about the future. It also holds a place in the bold past of polar exploration. In 1926, Italian explorer Umberto Nobile and Norwegian hero Roald Amundsen departed from here in the airship Norge — one of the first successful flights over the North Pole. The mast where the airship was moored still stands, weathered by time and wind — a quiet reminder of the age of heroic exploration.
Today, Ny-Ålesund remains a place few can visit — access is strictly limited to researchers and select guided visits.
12
Longyearbyen - the capital of Svalbard
One of the world’s northernmost settlements – full of surprises
1. The northernmost town on Earth with a civilian population
Longyearbyen sits at 78° North, making it the northernmost permanent settlement with its own school, church, supermarket, university, and airport. Life here continues through polar night and midnight sun, with full modern infrastructure — just a few hundred miles from the North Pole.
2. No one is allowed to be born or buried here
Due to permafrost, bodies never fully decompose, so burials are prohibited. Pregnant women are required to travel to mainland Norway before giving birth.
3. Home to more polar bears than people
There are more polar bears than residents in the Svalbard archipelago. While it’s rare to see them inside Longyearbyen, it’s legally required to carry a rifle if you leave the settlement, for safety. The bears roam freely in the surrounding wilderness.
4. A global seed vault is hidden in the mountains
Just outside the town lies the famous Svalbard Global Seed Vault, often called the “Doomsday Vault.” It stores backup copies of seeds from around the world — a safeguard for humanity in case of global disaster.
1. The northernmost town on Earth with a civilian population
Longyearbyen sits at 78° North, making it the northernmost permanent settlement with its own school, church, supermarket, university, and airport. Life here continues through polar night and midnight sun, with full modern infrastructure — just a few hundred miles from the North Pole.
2. No one is allowed to be born or buried here
Due to permafrost, bodies never fully decompose, so burials are prohibited. Pregnant women are required to travel to mainland Norway before giving birth.
3. Home to more polar bears than people
There are more polar bears than residents in the Svalbard archipelago. While it’s rare to see them inside Longyearbyen, it’s legally required to carry a rifle if you leave the settlement, for safety. The bears roam freely in the surrounding wilderness.
4. A global seed vault is hidden in the mountains
Just outside the town lies the famous Svalbard Global Seed Vault, often called the “Doomsday Vault.” It stores backup copies of seeds from around the world — a safeguard for humanity in case of global disaster.
A black silhouette of a polar bear on a white triangle, with a warning: "Gjelder hele Svalbard" — “Applies to all of Svalbard.”
Beyond this point: no entry without a rifle
One of the most famous signs in Svalbard stands just outside the town limits of Longyearbyen. It marks the invisible border between relative safety and true wilderness.
From this point onward, anyone leaving the settlement must carry a rifle — by law. Why? Because outside town, the risk of encountering a polar bear is real. And polar bears are not just beautiful — they’re dangerous, fast, and unpredictable.
You can't just rent a rifle and go. Tourists are required to either join an organised tour with trained armed guides or get a special permit (and training) to carry a weapon. Locals often own their own rifles, which you'll see lined up in racks at the entrance to shops, cafés, and even the post office — weapons must be left at the door.
And no — you can’t carry a loaded rifle inside Longyearbyen. The law is strict:
So yes — the bear on the sign is real. And in Svalbard, you don’t go hiking without respecting the bear's world.
One of the most famous signs in Svalbard stands just outside the town limits of Longyearbyen. It marks the invisible border between relative safety and true wilderness.
From this point onward, anyone leaving the settlement must carry a rifle — by law. Why? Because outside town, the risk of encountering a polar bear is real. And polar bears are not just beautiful — they’re dangerous, fast, and unpredictable.
You can't just rent a rifle and go. Tourists are required to either join an organised tour with trained armed guides or get a special permit (and training) to carry a weapon. Locals often own their own rifles, which you'll see lined up in racks at the entrance to shops, cafés, and even the post office — weapons must be left at the door.
And no — you can’t carry a loaded rifle inside Longyearbyen. The law is strict:
- Inside town = rifles must be unloaded and secured
- Outside town = loaded and ready, but used only if absolutely necessary
So yes — the bear on the sign is real. And in Svalbard, you don’t go hiking without respecting the bear's world.
13
North Cape – Where Europe Ends and the Arctic Begins
The iconic globe monument stands proudly on the plateau, visited each year by thousands of travellers who come by car, bike, and even on foot — all in search of that feeling of “I’ve reached the top.”
Standing at the North Cape (Nordkapp) feels like reaching the edge of the known land. It is high on a 307-metre cliff above the Barents Sea. This cape is often described as the northernmost point of mainland Europe — even though it's technically on an island connected by road. So, we can say "it is the farthest point you can reach by car".
During summer, the Midnight Sun never sets here. In winter, it becomes a perfect place to witness the Northern Lights above the snow-covered cliffs.
The North Cape Hall includes a panoramic cinema, chapel, café, and underground tunnel with exhibits about Arctic life and exploration.
During summer, the Midnight Sun never sets here. In winter, it becomes a perfect place to witness the Northern Lights above the snow-covered cliffs.
The North Cape Hall includes a panoramic cinema, chapel, café, and underground tunnel with exhibits about Arctic life and exploration.
14
SH Diana: Look at Her with My Eyes
SH Diana is equipped with hybrid engines that allow the vessel to switch to a low-noise, environmentally friendly mode — essential when observing the wildlife of the Arctic and Antarctic. The ship also carries state-of-the-art Zodiacs for shore landings, as well as a scientific laboratory for studying ice, water, and soil samples.
Technology of the Future — in the Heart of the Arctic
SH Diana is a modern expedition vessel, purpose-built for polar exploration. Launched in 2023, she is one of the most advanced in her class, with an ice-strengthened hull (ice class PC6) and an innovative stabilisation system that ensures a smooth journey even in the harsh conditions of the northern seas.
With a maximum capacity of just 192 passengers, SH Diana creates the atmosphere of a true scientific expedition — complete with lectures, briefings, and first-hand stories from polar researchers.
SH Diana is a modern expedition vessel, purpose-built for polar exploration. Launched in 2023, she is one of the most advanced in her class, with an ice-strengthened hull (ice class PC6) and an innovative stabilisation system that ensures a smooth journey even in the harsh conditions of the northern seas.
With a maximum capacity of just 192 passengers, SH Diana creates the atmosphere of a true scientific expedition — complete with lectures, briefings, and first-hand stories from polar researchers.
My stateroom wasn’t just a place to sleep – it was a cozy room where everything was comfortable and well-thought. I visited other decks to see different rooms: all of them are very nice and designed with care.
SH Diana is equipped with hydrodynamic stabilisers. These are large fin-like structures that extend from the sides of the ship below the waterline. When the ship rolls, the system adjusts the angle of the fins, generating lift to counteract the motion and smooth out the ride — a crucial feature for Arctic expeditions.
How It Works — Step by Step:
How It Works — Step by Step:
- A gyroscopic sensor constantly monitors the ship’s roll (angle and speed).
- The motion control system calculates the optimal angle for the fins.
- Hydraulic actuators adjust the underwater fins accordingly.
- As water flows over the angled fins. they generate lift or downward force, which counteracts the ship’s rolling motion.
My Stateroom in SH Diana
We lived on the Deck 6, almost in the centre bit closer to the front. I hardly felt any motion at all. It was only for a few hours that the sea was rough — when we were crossing the stretch between the mainland and Bear Island.
This was possible due to the stablizers. They are needed for:
Passenger comfort: Even in rough seas, the ship remains remarkably stable — ideal when dining, relaxing, or watching wildlife
Safety and efficiency: Shore landings and equipment handling are smoother when the ship is steady.
Environmental impact: A more stable ship can run more efficiently in eco mode, minimising underwater noise and disturbance to wildlife.
This was possible due to the stablizers. They are needed for:
Passenger comfort: Even in rough seas, the ship remains remarkably stable — ideal when dining, relaxing, or watching wildlife
Safety and efficiency: Shore landings and equipment handling are smoother when the ship is steady.
Environmental impact: A more stable ship can run more efficiently in eco mode, minimising underwater noise and disturbance to wildlife.
This is the main lounge — the heart of life on board
All lectures, daily recaps, and expedition meetings take place here. Instead of flashy night shows, we gathered for evening briefings. Scientists, guides, and true explorers shared stories about the Arctic. This expedition cruise program doesn’t aim to entertain — it enlightens.
In the evenings, the atmosphere softened as Rikky, the onboard pianist, filled the lounge with music. One night, Alex discovered Rikky’s rare gift: he could play any melody while listening to it, even if he’d never heard the piece before. That became their game during the final days of the cruise — Alex would send a link to a song he likes, and Rikky, smiling, would echo it on the piano, creating something magical in the moment.
In the evenings, the atmosphere softened as Rikky, the onboard pianist, filled the lounge with music. One night, Alex discovered Rikky’s rare gift: he could play any melody while listening to it, even if he’d never heard the piece before. That became their game during the final days of the cruise — Alex would send a link to a song he likes, and Rikky, smiling, would echo it on the piano, creating something magical in the moment.
My task as I saw it before cruising: to keep travel journal on this page and tell people about this cruise as much as possible. I was planning to tell you how everything works — because polar cruises are very different from the usual ones.
The region — and the entire organisation behind an Arctic expedition — was far beyond my expectation. What began as a plan for a reportage and a few social media posts turned into a deep dive: I recorded interviews, studied the history of polar exploration, and uncovered the fascinating world of Arctic wildlife and expedition cruising.
That’s why this page now holds more than just impressions — it’s a collection of stories, insights, and encounters that I’m proud to share. I hope they’ll inspire and guide you when you decide to set off for the places I was lucky enough to see. I wholeheartedly recommend Swan Hellenic — not because I was paid to do it (I wasn’t), but because I witnessed something rare: a team working with passion, precision, and genuine care to craft unforgettable experiences. The ships are truly five-star — elegant, comfortable, designed with purpose — and the Arctic programme is both thoughtful and transformative.
The region — and the entire organisation behind an Arctic expedition — was far beyond my expectation. What began as a plan for a reportage and a few social media posts turned into a deep dive: I recorded interviews, studied the history of polar exploration, and uncovered the fascinating world of Arctic wildlife and expedition cruising.
That’s why this page now holds more than just impressions — it’s a collection of stories, insights, and encounters that I’m proud to share. I hope they’ll inspire and guide you when you decide to set off for the places I was lucky enough to see. I wholeheartedly recommend Swan Hellenic — not because I was paid to do it (I wasn’t), but because I witnessed something rare: a team working with passion, precision, and genuine care to craft unforgettable experiences. The ships are truly five-star — elegant, comfortable, designed with purpose — and the Arctic programme is both thoughtful and transformative.