By Rachel Galvin

On the Bahamas Paradise website, it announces that cruises have been canceled on Sept. 7, 8, and 11. The reason is Dorian.

When the storm hit, I knew right away that Bahamas Paradise CEO Oneil Khosa would be lending a helping hand. After all, that is what he did during Hurricane Irma. (The company worked alongside the Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA] to house more than 2,000 first responders for two months after the storm on its Grand Celebration ship). And, I was right. Not only did he use one of his vessels, the same cruise liner, to deliver much-needed supplies to the islands, which were devastated in the storm and bring manpower to help where needed, but, he went a step beyond by helping to evacuate for free more than 1100 people who wanted to leave the Bahamas and come to South Florida.

Once again, Khosa extended his generosity and took on the task because he said it is “the right thing to do.”

In addition, they are still seeking supplies. To see a list of what they are seeking, visit www.BahamasReliefCruise.com and www.MissionResolve.org. Residents can deliver products to Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line’s warehouse, at 301 Broadway Ave., Bay #7, in Riviera Beach.

Mission Resolve and Bahamas Relief Cruise are working to coordinate a unified effort to help in the short and long term to rebuild in the Bahamas. All proceeds raised will go directly to provide relief to those affected by the storm.

The group not only includes senior executives from Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line, but also The Subculture Group, Everglades Trust,  Titou Hospitality Group out of West Palm Beach and Resolve Marine Group and Mission Resolve out of Broward County.

Since the Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line is in Freeport constantly, as their two cruise lines go back and forth from the Port of Palm Beach to Freeport, they have a one-on-one direct contact with the government there so can work with them to make sure the most critical needs of Bahamians are addressed.

Bahamas Paradise’s cruise lines sail from the Port of Palm Beach, but they are headquartered in Deerfield Beach. For more information, visit www.bahamasparadisecruise.com.

By Rachel Galvin

Cruising is supposed to be a relaxing experience and, for parents, having an opportunity to keep the little ones busy adds a bit more joy to their journey. The Caribbean Princess cruise liner took this into account when they installed a new Reef Splash Zone on their Deck 17. This area is really a lot of fun. Kids can walk in the water, splash around, squirt their friends with water or go down a mini slide. They can stand beneath some of the water shower features while waiting for the whale feature to burst rain from its spout. It is a whimsical addition, perfect for a tropical adventure. They also added new seating options and outdoor games like Connect 4, Jenga and Cornhole. Their outdoor bar serves up both cocktails and mocktails to quench your thirst. These are just a few of the new features on the ship. They made additional refurbishments overall.

They also have indoor fun for kids. There are several rooms that are part of Camp Discovery. Each room is a little different and accommodates different age groups.

One of the rooms has a water table with different iconic landmarks from around the globe, allowing kids to interact and learn. The kids can engage in planned activities as well – arts & crafts and more. Other rooms have games like air hockey, foosball, PS 4 games and other features.

In addition, kids can play a game or go on a scavenger hunt around the ship using their OceanMedallion™ — a technological wonder. This quarter-like object can be worn as a clip, on a band, on a bracelet or as a pendant. It seems like magic… It can be used to do everything from open your door to locate your friends and family on the ship. You can stream your favorite shows with great WiFi or order food from wherever you are. These are just a few options.

Of course, the whole ship is at your disposal and one of the options you will want to partake in with the whole family is watching the poolside movies or enjoying stargazing. There is so much fun to choose from while you enjoy your ocean trip. Bon Voyage!

To find out more about Princess Cruises, visit www.princess.com.