Our family trip aboard Margaritaville at Sea Paradise from April 6–10 was one we will never forget. This was my second time sailing on the Paradise with Boomer, my service dog, and it was also the same itinerary we had done before — visiting Freeport and Nassau, Bahamas.
This trip was extra special because it was a family cruise. It was me and Boomer, along with Patti, John, and Charles. From the moment we boarded, it felt good to be back on the ship and heading toward sunshine, ocean views, and a few days away together.
Getting Boomer Ready for the Cruise
Traveling with a service dog takes a lot of planning, especially when cruising internationally. Before we ever stepped onto the ship, we had to make sure Boomer had everything he needed.
Since we boarded on a Monday, Boomer had his vet visit the Friday before the cruise for his international health certificate. That is one of those behind-the-scenes parts of service dog travel that most people never see, but it is very important. Between paperwork, health records, and making sure everything is ready, Boomer’s cruise prep started before our vacation officially began.
Back on Margaritaville at Sea Paradise
Being back on the Paradise felt familiar in a good way. Since this was my and Boomer’s second trip on the ship, we had a better idea of what to expect. The crew and guests were very welcoming to Boomer, and that made the trip much easier and more enjoyable.
Traveling with a service dog can sometimes bring questions or uncertainty, but on this cruise, Boomer was treated with kindness and respect. That means a lot when you are trying to enjoy a family trip while also making sure your service dog is comfortable and cared for.
Freeport: A Beach Day at Pirate Cove
One of the highlights of the trip was our stop in Freeport, Bahamas, where we spent the day at Pirate Cove. It was a beautiful beach day, and everyone was very welcoming to Boomer.
There is something special about being able to enjoy the beach with your service dog by your side. Boomer handled the day well, and it gave us another great memory together in the Bahamas.
Nassau: A Private Tour and Family Memories
In Nassau, we took a private tour, which gave us a chance to see more of the island at our own pace. That worked really well for our family and made the day feel more personal.
Nassau is always a fun stop, and having that private tour gave us time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. It was one of those days where you just take it all in — the island, the weather, the family time, and the little moments that become part of the story.
A Hard Ending to the Trip
Unfortunately, the trip had a very hard ending. On the last day, Charles fell and broke his hip. It was not the ending any of us wanted, and it changed the way we will remember this cruise.
Even with all the sunshine, family memories, and good moments, that final day was difficult. Travel is not always perfect. Sometimes things happen that you cannot plan for, and this was one of those moments.
Still, I am thankful for the time we had together on the ship, the places we visited, and the memories we made before everything changed.
Looking Back
This second trip on Margaritaville at Sea Paradise was full of family, sunshine, beach time, service dog travel, and real-life moments. It reminded me that travel is not just about the destination. It is about the people you share it with, the memories you make, and sometimes even the challenges you face along the way.
Boomer did great, the crew and people we met were welcoming, and our family had several special moments together in the Bahamas.
It may have ended harder than expected, but this trip will always be part of our story.
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