A summer thunderstorm approaches the beach and the WWII Watch Tower on August 13. 2024 Photo: Charles Boyer / Florida Media Now
For the adventurer, Florida is full of lesser known beaches, parks, and roadside attractions. Only a few minutes off of I-95, a lonely tower sits on the beach in a residential part of Ormond-By-The-Sea as a lingering artifact of the Second World War. The Watch Tower, as it is called, is the last of its kind in Florida, and one of the few left from the over 15,200 similar structures on American coastlines.
Winter Is Coming: Time To Start Planning Your Getaway
Even though the current weather is hot, humid and with a decent chance of a tropical disturbance on the horizon, it’s never too early for Floridians to start dreaming about a vacation in the winter months. While many of us enjoy the relative convenience and comfort of a cruise originating from one of Florida’s many ports, others may prefer to go directly to a destination so they can unpack, unwind and not worry about traveling again until it’s time to head back home.
The Caribbean offers a range of beautiful destinations just a short flight away from the Sunshine State’s major airports. Each island has its own unique charm, from pristine beaches to vibrant local culture to restaurants where you can have a great meal you’ll never forget.
Three Sisters Spring Photo: Three Sisters Spring website
When one thinks of Florida, images of sun-soaked beaches and theme parks often come to mind. However, nestled within the state’s lush landscapes are a series of natural wonders that offer a refreshing escape from the bustling city life. Florida’s springs, with their crystal-clear waters and serene environments, provide a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located just a short drive from Orlando, these springs promise a rejuvenating experience. Here’s a guide to some of the most captivating springs you can visit, each with its own unique charm.
Utopia of the Seas arrived at her new home port of Port Canaveral, Florida on July 11, 2024. Photo: Royal Carribean
This morning, the arrival of the world’s second-largest cruise ship and Royal Caribbean International’s newest vessel, Utopia of the Seas, was celebrated with fanfare and excitement as it docked at Port Canaveral. Observers say the ship could redefine luxury and innovation in the cruising industry, bringing with it a host of technology, features, and amenities that elevate the cruising experience to new heights.
Royal Caribbean has started promoting the arrival of the world’s second-largest cruise ship, Utopia of the Seas, to its new home in Port Canaveral. It all kicks off with an online contest for fans of pop singer Meghan Trainor to join her and a small group of other fans on the ship’s initial cruise before it enters into regular service later this month.
Disney Cruise Lines boards passengers in Port Canaveral, FL. Photo: Mark Stone/FMN
Those who plan to cruise over the 4th of July holiday weekend and into next week might not get what they signed up for. Hurricane Beryl, the first major storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, has wreaked havoc on Florida-based cruise lines, forcing significant itinerary changes and posing operational challenges.
With everything going on in the world, no doubt 2024 will be a bizarre year. 2025 may start out even stranger. While stories like this are normally just a wee bit out of FMN’s wheelhouse, we found this one curious enough to take a look at. It’s not exactly “The Love Boat”, but…..
Utopia of the Seas is set to carry passengers for the first time July 19 from Port Canaveral, Florida
When you think of a big ship, the first thing that comes to mind for many people is one of the US Navy’s massive aircraft carriers. Truly a floating air base with a full-length flight deck for aircraft to take off and land, aircraft carriers are indeed huge. Typically 1,092 feet (332.85 meters) long and with a beam of 134 feet (40.84 meters) , they are formidable symbols of naval power worldwide. At the same time, they’re not the only huge ships on the ocean, and in a few weeks, one of the largest afloat will call Port Canaveral home.
Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Utopia of the Seas, is roughly the same size, and even a bit longer from bow to stern than an aircraft carrier: at 1,188 feet (362 meters) long, 211 feet (64 meters), it is also a huge ship, one devoted to giving its passengers the ultimate vacation experience. While the Utopia is huge, she is edged out slightly by RC’s Icon of the Seas, it is only only 8 feet longer and therefore carries the title of “World’s largest.”
Carnival MS Paradise cruise liner. Taken off the coast of Catalina Island, CA, USA. Photo: Beau Hudspeth, Creative Commons
Carnival Corporation, operator of the world’s largest cruise line, has deployed SpaceX’s Starlink Internet service to all ninety of their ships across all of their brands.
