I am spending the morning on the beach in Grand Turk. I normally wouldn’t try to be one of the first off of the ship but I want to get to the beach as early as possible to get a lounger in a good spot.

They just announced that the gangway is open. It’s a mess here.

We were told to bring our vaccination cards or a picture of it. I could’ve done a picture but I don’t want to risk getting sent back on the ship after this so I’m just taking my card to be safe. Grand Turk has since lifted their vaccination requirement so this shouldn’t be an issue on any future cruises here.

I finally made it off of the ship. It looks like midship was an option as well. I wonder if they had the same crowd we did.

After you come off of the pier and through the duty free shop, you will see all of the excursions booths. I don’t have a morning excursion so I’m taking a hard left to the beach.

They moved most of the people selling umbrellas down the beach but they are charging for these covered loungers right by the pier. I think I heard $30 but don’t quote me on that.

There were two beach dogs here. One just got up and left.

I’m looking for a free beach chair on the aisle and close to the front so I can watch my stuff from the water.

I ended up with one by the 3rd life guard stand. Second row on the aisle.

I got out in the water. I forgot how rocky it was and left my water shoes in the room. I went out about 20 yards and just found some nice rocks to park it on. I stayed there for an hour and a half. Then I got out. Apparently you have to go down farther to get away from the rocks.

While I was in the water I started thinking it looked like my bag was no longer on the aisle.

Sure enough this woman either moved my stuff over or pulled another lounger into the aisle. I think she pulled a lounger into the aisle.

I knew what she was going to do when I left. I wanted to drag my lounger away. But I resisted. I’m running behind as it is do to the stampede earlier. When I left I looked back and she was sliding my lounger closer to her. I’m sure to reserve for someone or to have more space for herself.

I went in search of a foot washing station which I found close to the Margaritaville pool. They also have showers.

Next I wanted a beer. I head for the Tiki Bar. As I walk up a guy asks if he can help me. I think a server is trying to get me before I get to the bar. I say a beer. “You don’t want any party favors man?” I say very loudly are you trying to sell me drugs in Margaritaville? “No man no.” And he got the heck out.

The wait was ridiculous. I ended up going inside for a beer and bringing it out.

This is the beer menu. Their full menu can be found here.

I was able to get a stool at the Tiki Bar.

This is one of the local Turk’s Head beers.

It’s a quarter after 12 and I’m about to head back on the ship.

There are more foot washing stations on the other side of Margaritaville.

The water is so clear here.

I am getting back on the ship. Next time we’re going Whale Watching.

• Grand Turk