On June 12, we set sail for a much-needed getaway to Cozumel, where we spent an unforgettable day at the beautiful Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club. This trip wasn’t just another vacation—it was a family-first experience. I traveled with my 14-year-old son, 23-year-old daughter, my teenage niece and nephew (ages 15 and 14), and my two older cousins. We chose this cruise because it was budget-friendly, offered stunning Oceanview rooms with two bathrooms, and my older cousin even had a relaxing cove balcony. For many of us, it was our first time cruising, and for my older female cousin and me, it was a chance to share our love for the sea—making memories that will last a lifetime.
Day 1: Embarkation & Exploring the Ship
Galveston, TX → Carnival Breeze Adventure Begins!
The real chaos of the day? The rain. 🌧️ We left home driving through a full-on storm headed straight for the Galveston Port at 150 Rosenberg Street. Parking was about $145 per car (💡 Tip: Reserve ahead at Port of Galveston Parking), and while the terminal was only a 5-minute walk away, it felt like a 15-minute trek through puddles and wind. We were soaked but determined!
To help keep everything organized, I made family folders with boarding passes, travel documents, and printed luggage tags in clear holders for everyone. I had my passport, but some of our group used birth certificates. I stayed with them—especially my son—to make sure we all stayed together. One of my travel goals? To help everyone in our group get passports for future trips. It just makes things smoother and less stressful.
Security was pretty quick, though one cousin's bag was pulled aside because of something metal—no big deal. But here’s a key pro tip: Always carry on your wine and sodas! My older cousin packed his wine in his checked luggage, and it was confiscated. Carnival doesn’t play around with that rule.
First Impressions of the Ship
Once check-in was done, things started feeling more relaxed. The staff at the port were moving people fast, and we accidentally skipped dropping off our luggage at first. Luckily, we found a helpful porter who got us taken care of without a long wait.
The muster drill was super quick and different from what I was used to. They scanned our Sail & Sign cards and gave safety instructions later through the intercom—no standing in groups or waiting around this time!
As soon as we boarded, the ship came alive. Carnival’s crew was warm, welcoming, and ready to help. It felt like the rain and chaos of the morning were behind us.
Dinner & First-Night Fun
We saved our big steakhouse dinner for the last sea day (and trust me, it was worth it—more on that later), but that first night we wandered the ship, grabbed some drinks, and settled into vacation mode.
And yes—I officially kicked things off with my Patrón shot. 🥃 The cruise had officially begun!
🛳🌴 Day 2: Cozumel & Mr. Sanchos Beach Club
Sun, Sea & So Much to Do—Or Not Do!
After all the hustling and bustling on the ship Mr. Sanchos Beach Club was exactly what we needed. I kept it chill—posted up at our table, took a few walks, and just soaked in the moment. My cousin, on the other hand, had the time of her life! Between the Macarena band, live iguanas on display, and the drinks flowing, the vibes were perfect for the adults.
The kids hit the Aqua Park (note: it’s on the ocean, and yes—it’s 11 feet deep!). My son tried it but wasn’t a fan of the depth, and neither were the other kids, so they mostly stuck to the shoreline. Still, if your child loves water sports and adventure, this place will be heaven.
Later, my cousin and nephew tried to ride jet skis, but the line was so long they ended up waiting an hour—and sadly, it was time to head back to the ship before their turn.
🍤🥗 What We Ate & Drank
We paid $68 for the adult all-inclusive and $45 for kids, with an additional $14 per person for the Aqua Park.
I kept it light with fried shrimp and fries (I had already eaten breakfast). My cousin went for grilled fish with salad and shrimp—but the fish didn’t sit right with her. My daughter had a shrimp salad that was so good I stole a couple bites. 😋
The kids ordered food too, but they were bouncing between the water and the table, so I couldn’t even keep up with what they ate. 😂 My cousin and nephew ordered meals as well, but unfortunately didn’t get to eat them because they were still waiting for those jet skis!
💡 Tips for a Better Experience
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Book excursions early—either as soon as you arrive or in advance at Mr. Sanchos' website.
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Wait times can get long—my daughter didn’t get on the horseback ride until 12:30 PM and the jet ski line was packed.
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Bring tip money—the drinks are strong, the service is great, and the staff truly appreciates it.
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Vendors walk around offering souvenirs and local goods, so having a bit of cash on hand is always a good idea.
Final Thought: Whether you want action-packed fun or laid-back lounging, Mr. Sanchos gives you both. Just plan ahead, pace yourself, and enjoy the view. 🌊🍹
💼✨ Cruise Smart, Pack Smarter\
Tried-and-True Packing Tips from My Family Cruise
Every cruise teaches you something new—and here are the things I’ve learned (and packed) to make life easier at sea:
🧳 What to Pack (and What I’ll Never Forget Again):
I always overpack, but some items are non-negotiables for me now:
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💊 Over-the-Counter meds – I bring it all: Dramamine, Tums, Pepto, Tylenol, allergy meds, etc. You never know what your stomach or head is gonna do on a moving ship or in new places.
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🧲 Magnetic hooks – The cabin walls are metal, and space is tight, so these are clutch for hanging swimsuits, hats, or towels.
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🐤 Cruise ducks – Yes, we’re part of the duck-hiding fun! The kids love it, and it’s such a cute cruise tradition.
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🔌 Multi-outlet USB charger – Outlets are limited in the room, and everyone has phones, tablets, and more to charge.
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👠 Over-the-door shoe organizer – Game changer for bathroom clutter. Organizes hair products, meds, chargers, everything—because counter space is basically nonexistent.
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🌧️ Rain gear or a light jacket – The weather can switch up quick, especially during boarding or excursions.
🧡 Extra Handy Add-Ons:
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🧂 Seasoning packets – If you're picky or like extra flavor (like me), throw in a few mini hot sauces or seasoning packets for your meals.
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🔐 Small lockbox or zipper pouch – For passports, cash, and important docs while in port or onboard.
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🧼 Laundry bag or collapsible hamper – To keep the dirty stuff from taking over the room.
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🚶♀️ Comfortable sandals or water shoes – Especially helpful for rocky beach days or port walking.
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☀️ Sunscreen and aloe – Because that sun is serious in Mexico!
✨ Pro Tip:
Bring your own insulated cup or tumbler for drinks on the cruise—it keeps them cold longer and helps reduce waste. Bonus: It holds way more than the tiny cups they give at the drink stations! 🥤
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