Here’s an honest mommy’s take on this secluded slice of heaven.
THE METHOD TO MY MADNESS
Missed the full cruise breakdown? Catch up on how we navigated the ship atmosphere over on my [Mariner of the Seas Cruise Recap].
The older I get, the more I appreciate little escapes. They provide much needed recharging in a world constantly draining my battery.
Our first Royal Caribbean Bahamas Cruise, Utopia of the Seas, while fun, left me with a brutal people hangover. Top priority for Cozumel—less people, more privacy.
All excursions are not as advertised. I knew if we wanted to get the most out of our excursion funds, I would need to search outside the cruise lines’ typical parameters.
I hunted for common cruise excursion red flags: packed crowds, neglected grounds, and subpar service. The Cabana Beach Chankanaab mentioned none of those things, so I gave it a try and it was 100 % worth it!
TAKE ALL MY MONEY
Upon arrival, we were welcomed with the hands down best mango coolers ever! It was so good, I immediately ordered a bigger second glass.
Our concierge Dahlia, was delightful and quaint. She guided us to Cabana #9 which came complete with picnic space, sun lounger bed and chairs, cabana fan, hammock, and shower.
Plus, she anticipated all our needs. Toys for the kids? Done. Snorkeling gear? Right this way. Lunch recommends? Here’s my top five.
The space was clean and well kept. I especially appreciated the water tubs to keep dusty feet from trekking sand everywhere.
FOODIE PARADISE
In reviews of other beach clubs, I noticed heavily mixed reviews about food quality. I refuse to waste precious vacation funds on soggy seaside eats. Just—no.
Our food was fresh and chef’s kiss. We scarfed down tangy ceviche alongside a buzzing habanero sauce with just enough kick to clear the sinuses. My Lobster BLT and Hubby’s Shrimp Tacos were splitting at the seams with meat!
FOUND NEMO
The absolute BEST part of this secluded space is the pristine turquoise water perfect for snorkeling. It’s like Nat Geo playing in high definition inches from your face!
My girls sat on the entry stairs, heads half-submerged, counting every tropical fish that darted past. It was especially heart warming to hear my youngest ‘Oooh and ahhh’ at the little fishies brave enough to swim nearby.
After some coaxing Buzzy Bee floated out with me and Hubs multiple times so she could get a better view of this unique underwater world.
SOCIALLY SELECTIVE SUPERSTAR
The juice is absolutely worth the squeeze for The Cabana Beach Chankanaab. They get 5 stars for top notch service, delicious eats, and accurate advertising.
If your travel style leans more ‘private sanctuary’ and less ‘human sardine can,’ do your sanity a favor and book the cabana!
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