TAPS Western Caribbean Cruises
January 3 - 12, 2019
All survivors are invited to join us on our TAPS Western Caribbean Cruises.
Set sail with your TAPS family to kick off the new year. This self-funded cruise will be a chance to relax, heal and creating lasting friendships with fellow survivors.
OVERVIEW
This unique trip offers back-to-back cruises to Cozumel, Mexico, and Grand Cayman aboard Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas. You can choose to participate in the four-night cruise from January 3-7 that sails from Tampa, Florida, to Cozumel and back, join us for the five-night cruise from January 7-12 that sails from Tampa to the Grand Cayman and Cozumel or choose to stay for both cruises.
Check out photos from the inaugural TAPS cruise to see what this trip is like.
THE SHIP
The Brilliance of the Seas has features to keep guests of all ages entertained. Sports-minded passengers can take advantage of the putting green, rock climbing wall, sports courts and fitness center. Want a more relaxing retreat? Lounge around the pools or enjoy the spa. You'll also find a variety of dining options, comedy and production shows, entertainment for kids and more. Visit the Royal Caribbean's website to learn more about the ship.
TAPS ON BOARD
We know that healing is found when surrounded by peers who understand. While on board, TAPS will have a variety of programs and activities available for you based on relationship or loss, and we'll gather as a group each evening for a TAPS family dinner. We'll also have a survivor sanctuary that will serve as our home base where you can always connect with TAPS staff should you need any emotional support.
When we reach each port, you'll be able to explore the islands. TAPS will also offer organized group shore excursions that will be announced closer to the cruise.
SCHEDULE
January 3-7 Cruise
Day 1: We'll set sail from Tampa at 4 p.m. and cruise to our first destination.
Day 2: We'll spend the day at sea, and you'll get to explore the cruise ship's many features.
Day 3: The ship will dock at Cozumel, Mexico, for the day.
Day 4: As the ship heads back to Florida, you'll once again get to enjoy time onboard.
Day 5: We'll disembark in Tampa and say our goodbyes.
January 7-12 Cruise
Day 1: We'll set sail from Tampa at 4 p.m.
Day 2: A day at sea will give you a chance to take advantage of the ship's amenities.
Day 3: The ship will dock at George Town, Grand Cayman, for the day.
Day 4: We'll spend the day at our next destination, Cozumel, Mexico.
Day 5: As we sail back to Florida, you'll once again get to enjoy time onboard.
Day 6: We'll disembark in Tampa.
TRIP FEES
Self-funded travel opportunity costs are not covered by TAPS. Please contact the TAPS travel consultant, Tamra Sipes, at 360-914-0800 or tamra.sipes@taps.org for more information.
LODGING AND TRANSPORTATION
You’ll need to cover the cost of your transportation to and from Tampa. Please plan to arrive in Tampa before 2:30 p.m. the day the ship departs.
We'll have lodging on the ship for each night. The Royal Caribbean is happy to meet accommodations for those who wish to have a different room or more people in a stateroom.
REGISTRATION DETAILS
To reserve your spot on this trip, please submit a registration form by Monday, December 17. Spots for the trip will be filled on a first come, first served basis.
Please contact the TAPS travel consultant, Tamra Sipes, at 360-914-0800 or tamra.sipes@taps.org for any additional questions.