Joe and Hayley recently went on an unforgettable Caribbean cruise aboard the P&O Arvia, generously gifted by Maxine and Steven. They were joined by Maxine and Steven, Lewis, and Jess, making it a perfect family getaway before the wedding.
The trip began with a flight to Barbados, where the group boarded the Arvia to start their cruise adventure. Their first stop was Martinique, where Joe tried snorkeling for the first time. Hayley, having snorkeled before, showed him the ropes and guided him through the shallow waters. The experience was made even more incredible by the sea itself — warm, crystal-clear, and like nothing Joe had ever felt before. Both Joe and Hayley were genuinely amazed at the beauty of the Caribbean waters, and for Joe, it became an instant “need to go back” kind of moment.
Next up was St Kitts. The group spent the day exploring local shops and wandering the island. It was also a chance to get more familiar with the ship, which quickly became a comfortable home for the week.
Tortola offered a mix of excitement and sightseeing with an open-sided bus tour. Holding on tight while navigating the island’s roads, the group enjoyed the stunning views and the thrill of the ride, making it one of the trip’s most memorable experiences.
St Maarten brought some unexpected fun. Taking a water taxi, the group followed the Caribbean Spirit while singing along to YMCA, turning a simple trip across the water into a mini dance party.
Antigua quickly became a favourite stop for Joe and Hayley. They discovered Jolly Beach, which would soon become their favourite beach of the whole trip. Time was spent swimming, relaxing on sun beds, and laughing over the amusing Caribbean crabs scuttling along the sand. Joe even got a little reminder that the crabs were real when one nipped his little toe — but it was quickly forgiven thanks to how cute the crabs were. Hayley had a bikini mishap while trying to pick up a shell, which led to a quick replacement purchase — another story that will be remembered for years.
In St Lucia, the group took a catamaran trip to Marigot Bay, famous for its appearance in Pirates of the Caribbean. They also sailed to see the island’s iconic peaks, enjoying the scenery from the water and the relaxed pace of a day at sea.
The cruise concluded back in Barbados with a deep-sea snorkeling adventure. This time, Joe and Hayley ventured into deeper waters, spotting turtles, stingrays, and even exploring shipwrecks. The underwater camera captured some incredible footage, creating lasting memories of the trip. Once again, the Caribbean sea’s warmth and clarity made every moment in the water unforgettable.
More than anything, the cruise was about family and creating memories together. From snorkeling adventures to bus tours and beach mishaps, the trip was packed with laughter, surprises, and moments that reminded everyone why family trips like this are so special.
For Joe and Hayley, this Caribbean cruise has sparked a love of cruising — an expensive hobby, but one they’re already planning to continue. It was the perfect pre-wedding adventure, with only Disneyland Paris left on the list before the big day. A trip of a lifetime, filled with adventure, laughter, and unforgettable family moments.
