A Springtime Guide to Cruise Cocktails

This winter, our travels were somewhat limited. We made a memorable trip to Key West in February with Beth’s sister and brother-in-law, and another to Provincetown, Cape Cod, in January. However, most of our time was spent working on the East Coast while the snow piled up around our basement window.

If you haven’t heard, this winter has set records in Boston and the South Shore. That’s where we are currently, in Plymouth, Mass—America’s hometown. The snowfall began in mid-January and continued through March. The weatherman reported that over 108 inches fell this winter, making it the snowiest winter in Boston's history, with more possibly on the way.

Things became so extreme this winter that even mail carriers stayed home. There were days we couldn’t leave the house. Our little 10-pound hound, Chachy, rarely showed himself, preferring to snuggle under fleece sheets on our bed. During the snowmageddon, one way we kept ourselves entertained was by reminiscing about past trips. We frequently discussed destinations like Jordan, Greece, Italy, and Amsterdam, along with our Dinogo cruise through the Caribbean. We often recalled that trip, reminiscing about the delicious food, warm breezes, and, of course, those delightful drinks on board the ship.

During our cruise, we found ourselves treating many fellow passengers to drinks. It was a task we took quite seriously. That's right, Mrs. Bartender, could you suggest a cocktail starting with X, Y, or Z? Our goal was to put together an A to Z cocktail guide for cruisers, and I like to believe we succeeded. The discussions and cocktails left a lasting impression on us. As we reminisced about the drinks enjoyed with new friends, we brainstormed a fun array of cocktails tailored to various cruising and travel styles, including The Relaxation/Spa Cruiser, The Adrenaline/Adventure Cruiser, and the Cultural Cruiser. One afternoon filled with nostalgia (and sampling), we crafted three delightful cruise cocktails to welcome the spring season.

The Relaxation Cruiser

Strawberry Basil Lemonade Mimosa

Ingredients you’ll need:

• ¾ cup of fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
• ½ cup of agave syrup or honey
• ½ cup of chilled soda water or sparkling water
• ½ cup of fresh lemon juice (about two large lemons)
• 8 medium-sized fresh strawberries, sliced
• One 750ml bottle of chilled Prosecco

Instructions: In a pitcher, mix together the basil, lemon juice, and agave. Muddle the basil, then incorporate the strawberries, Prosecco, and soda water. Pour the mixture into champagne flutes and enjoy.

For the Adrenaline Junkies

Little Helper from Dad

Ingredients required:

• 2 oz. vodka
• ½ oz. blue curaçao
• 8 oz. of your favorite energy drink

Preparation steps: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the energy drink and vodka. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds, then strain into a stemmed glass. Finish the drink by adding the blue curaçao, give it a gentle stir, and enjoy your creation.

Cruiser with a Cultural Twist

French 75 Cocktail

Ingredients you’ll need:

• ¾ oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ½ oz. simple syrup
• 1 ½ oz. gin
• 2 oz. chilled champagne (or Prosecco)
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1 lemon for garnish

Instructions for preparation: Using a paring knife, carefully slice a long, thin spiral peel from the lemon. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Add ice and shake thoroughly for 25 seconds. Strain the mixture into a chilled Champagne flute and top with sparkling wine. Create a stylish twist with the lemon peel by curling it around your finger, then garnish your drink with it and serve with a smile.

Now it’s your chance! What cocktail would you suggest for a cruise?