16 ANCC Contact Hours
Course Fees
$995.00 for Physicians$795.00 for Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants
$595.00 for Nurses
OUR OFFICE HOURS
Mon-Fri 8:30am-6:00pm EST
Sat 10:00am-2:00pm EST
University at Sea®
A Division of Continuing Education, Inc.
5700 4th St. N.
St Petersburg, Florida 33703
A Division of Continuing Education, Inc.
5700 4th St. N.
St Petersburg, Florida 33703
Infectious Diseases, Sports & Musculoskeletal Medicine, and Concussion
7-Night Eastern Caribbean & CocoCay Cruise
Round-trip Miami, Florida
February 08 - 15, 2026
Round-trip Miami, Florida
February 08 - 15, 2026
16 ANCC Contact Hours
$795.00 for Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants
$595.00 for Nurses
Target Audience
Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, Nurses
IMPORTANT NOTE: All conferees, their families, and guests must book their cruise within the University at Sea® meeting group through University at Sea® at 800-926-3775 or by registering online. This ensures our company can provide conference services and complimentary social amenities to all meeting participants and their guests. Thank you for your cooperation.
Faculty
Blaise L Congeni, MD
Joseph A. Congeni, MD
Our staff can assist you with all your travel arrangements.
Questions? Call us at 800-525-9696.
We can assist you with all your travel arrangements. We'd be happy to help you plan your flights, hotels or tours before and/or after your cruise conference.
We can assist you with all your travel arrangements. We'd be happy to help you plan your flights, hotels or tours before and/or after your cruise conference.
Cruise Itinerary
| DATE | PORT OF CALL | ARRIVE | DEPART |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Feb 08 | Miami, Florida |
- | 4:00 pm |
| Mon Feb 09 | Coco Cay, Bahamas |
7:00 am | 4:00 pm |
| Tue Feb 10 | *At Sea - Cruising Lectures 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
- | - |
| Wed Feb 11 | San Juan, Puerto Rico |
10:30 am | 7:00 pm |
| Thu Feb 12 | Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. |
8:00 am | 6:00 pm |
| Fri Feb 13 | *At Sea - Cruising Lectures 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
- | - |
| Sat Feb 14 | *At Sea - Cruising Lectures 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM |
- | - |
| Sun Feb 15 | Miami, Florida |
6:00 am | - |
*Tentative course schedule, actual class times may differ.
Ports of Call
Miami, Florida
Miami is frequently misunderstood as merely a neon-lit transit hub for Caribbean voyages. However, to bypass this city is to miss one of the most culturally distinct and energetic metropolises in North America. Miami functions less like a standard American city and more like a capital of the Americas—a sophisticated, humid, and vibrant crossroads where the Global South meets the U.S. mainland. For the discerning traveler, we strongly advise arriving at least two days prior to embarkation. This buffer not only mitigates travel delays but allows you to acclimate to the tropical rhythm and explore a destination that offers far more than just cruise terminals and nightclubs.
The Neighborhoods: A Study in Contrasts - Miami is a collection of distinct enclaves, each with a unique personality. Understanding the geography is key to a successful visit, as traffic can be significant.
If you visit only one paid attraction, make it the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Built by industrialist James Deering in 1916, this Italian Renaissance-style villa on Biscayne Bay is a stunning preservation of the Gilded Age. The interiors are opulent, but the formal gardens—fighting back the encroaching mangroves—are the true highlight. It provides a serene counter-narrative to the modern glass skyline.
For nature lovers, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables offers a world-class collection of rare tropical plants. It is a sprawling, peaceful expanse that feels miles away from the urban core.
The Culinary Landscape - Miami’s food scene has matured significantly, recently earning its first Michelin Guide.
This two-day plan focuses on quality over quantity, minimizing cross-town traffic.
The Neighborhoods: A Study in Contrasts - Miami is a collection of distinct enclaves, each with a unique personality. Understanding the geography is key to a successful visit, as traffic can be significant.
- South Beach (The Art Deco District): This is the Miami of popular imagination. While Ocean Drive can be crowded and tourist-centric, its architectural significance is genuine. The Art Deco Historic District contains the world's largest concentration of 1930s resort architecture. Our honest advice: Visit in the early morning (before 10:00 AM). The light is perfect for photography, the streets are quiet, and you can appreciate the pastel geometry without the overwhelming crowds. For the beach itself, head to the "South of Fifth" area for a more refined, quieter experience, or north to Mid-Beach for wider sands.
- Little Havana: Just west of downtown, this neighborhood is the emotional heart of the Cuban diaspora. While tour buses frequent Calle Ocho, the area retains an authentic soul. The experience here is sensory: the slap of dominoes at Máximo Gómez Park, the scent of tobacco, and the omnipresent music. Do not look for fine dining here; look for authenticity. Order a *cortadito* (sweetened espresso with steamed milk) from a *ventanita* (walk-up window) and watch the neighborhood wake up. It is a simple, inexpensive ritual that connects you to the local culture better than any guided tour.
- Wynwood & The Design District: These adjacent neighborhoods represent Miami's rapid evolution. Wynwood, formerly a warehouse district, is now an open-air museum of street art. The Wynwood Walls are the curated center, but the surrounding streets offer blocks of stunning, large-scale murals. Just north lies the Design District, a sharp contrast of ultra-luxury retail and modern architecture. Even if you aren't shopping for high-end fashion, the area is worth a walk for its public art installations and some of the city's best chef-driven restaurants.
- Coconut Grove & Coral Gables: For those seeking a break from the high energy, these southern neighborhoods offer lush canopies of banyan trees and historic charm. Coral Gables, built in the 1920s, feels like a Mediterranean dream with its plazas and fountains. The Venetian Pool, carved from a coral rock quarry, is a unique historic swimming hole worth seeing.
If you visit only one paid attraction, make it the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Built by industrialist James Deering in 1916, this Italian Renaissance-style villa on Biscayne Bay is a stunning preservation of the Gilded Age. The interiors are opulent, but the formal gardens—fighting back the encroaching mangroves—are the true highlight. It provides a serene counter-narrative to the modern glass skyline.
For nature lovers, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables offers a world-class collection of rare tropical plants. It is a sprawling, peaceful expanse that feels miles away from the urban core.
The Culinary Landscape - Miami’s food scene has matured significantly, recently earning its first Michelin Guide.
- Stone Crabs: If you are visiting between mid-October and mid-May, Florida Stone Crab is the regional delicacy. Joe’s Stone Crab in South Beach is the institution. It does not take reservations for the main dining room, and wait times can be excessive. Tip: Go for lunch to avoid the longest queues, or visit Joe’s Take Away next door for the same food in a casual setting (and take it to the beach).
- Cuban & Latin: Beyond the famous Versailles (which is great for the atmosphere), try Sanguich de Miami on Calle Ocho for an elevated take on the classic Cuban sandwich. The city also boasts exceptional Peruvian cuisine; look for fresh ceviche and *lomo saltado* in the Brickell or Wynwood areas.
This two-day plan focuses on quality over quantity, minimizing cross-town traffic.
- Day 1: The Mainland Mix (Culture & Art)
- Morning: Start in Little Havana. Grab a coffee and a *pastelito* (guava pastry) at a walk-up window. Walk Calle Ocho to see the Domino Park and cigar rollers.
- Late Morning/Lunch: Take a ride-share to Wynwood. Walk the mural-lined streets. Have a casual lunch at a taco spot or Asian food hall in the area.
- Afternoon: Head north to the Design District. Browse the architecture and public art. If you enjoy museums, the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) is here and free to enter.
- Evening: Dinner in Brickell or Downtown. Enjoy the skyline views by the Miami River.
- Day 2: Coastal History & Elegance
- Morning: Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Arrive right at opening (9:30 AM) to beat the heat and crowds. Spend 2-3 hours exploring the house and grounds.
- Lunch: Head to Coconut Grove for a relaxed lunch under the tree canopy. It’s a short drive from Vizcaya.
- Afternoon: Transit to South Beach. Walk the Art Deco district. If you want beach time, rent a chair and umbrella South of Fifth.
- Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner in the South of Fifth neighborhood, which offers excellent dining without the chaotic noise of central Ocean Drive.
- Transportation: Miami is a sprawling car city. Public transit (Metrorail/Metromover) is useful only within the downtown/Brickell core. For everywhere else, Uber or Lyft are essential. If you are staying in South Beach, you can walk locally, but you will need a car to reach the mainland.
- Traffic: Traffic can be severe, particularly crossing the causeways between Miami Beach and the mainland during rush hour. Always pad your travel time by 20-30 minutes.
- Weather: It is tropical. Sudden, intense rain showers are common, especially in summer and fall. They usually pass quickly. Pack breathable fabrics and a compact umbrella.
- The Brightline: If you are combining your cruise with a stay in Orlando, West Palm Beach, or Fort Lauderdale, the Brightline high-speed train is a game-changer. It connects these cities directly to downtown Miami in comfort, avoiding the stress of I-95.
Coco Cay, Bahamas
Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean's private Bahamian island, engineered entirely for high-quality leisure. The destination is smartly zoned by energy level, allowing you to dial in exactly the type of beach day you want.
For adrenaline seekers, the upcharge Thrill Waterpark houses North America's tallest waterslide, Daredevil's Peak, alongside massive wave pools. If you want a lively, complimentary resort-pool atmosphere, head to Oasis Lagoon, the Caribbean's largest freshwater pool, complete with a swim-up bar and DJ.
If you prefer a traditional beach day without additional fees, Chill Island and South Beach provide ample loungers, umbrellas, and calm, clear waters. Complimentary dining is available throughout the island at venues like Skipper's Grill and the Chill Grill.
For a more sophisticated experience away from the crowds, two premium upcharge areas stand out. The Coco Beach Club offers an oceanfront infinity pool, elevated dining, and the Bahamas' first overwater cabanas. Alternatively, Hideaway Beach is an adults-only (18+) zone featuring a private cove, heated pool, and dedicated dining venues like Slice of Paradise.
The island features a deep-water pier, meaning no tender boats are required—you can walk right off the ship. Shipboard Wi-Fi and beverage packages seamlessly extend to the island, making logistics effortless.
For adrenaline seekers, the upcharge Thrill Waterpark houses North America's tallest waterslide, Daredevil's Peak, alongside massive wave pools. If you want a lively, complimentary resort-pool atmosphere, head to Oasis Lagoon, the Caribbean's largest freshwater pool, complete with a swim-up bar and DJ.
If you prefer a traditional beach day without additional fees, Chill Island and South Beach provide ample loungers, umbrellas, and calm, clear waters. Complimentary dining is available throughout the island at venues like Skipper's Grill and the Chill Grill.
For a more sophisticated experience away from the crowds, two premium upcharge areas stand out. The Coco Beach Club offers an oceanfront infinity pool, elevated dining, and the Bahamas' first overwater cabanas. Alternatively, Hideaway Beach is an adults-only (18+) zone featuring a private cove, heated pool, and dedicated dining venues like Slice of Paradise.
The island features a deep-water pier, meaning no tender boats are required—you can walk right off the ship. Shipboard Wi-Fi and beverage packages seamlessly extend to the island, making logistics effortless.
At Sea - Cruising
San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan offers one of the most sophisticated and accessible experiences in the Caribbean. Unlike ports requiring long transfers to see anything of value, Old San Juan greets you immediately upon disembarkation. This 500-year-old walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage site best explored independently on foot, allowing you to bypass crowded bus tours and move at your own pace.
Your priority should be the two massive citadels guarding the coast. Start at Castillo San Cristóbal, the largest Spanish fortification in the New World, before walking the scenic coastal trail to the iconic Castillo San Felipe del Morro. The sheer scale of these defenses is humbling, and the expansive green lawn leading to El Morro—often dotted with kites—provides a dramatic contrast to the deep blue Atlantic.
Between the forts lies a grid of blue cobblestone streets (adoquines) lined with vibrant colonial architecture. The joy here is aimless wandering, though the heat can be intense; stay hydrated and wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the hills. For a cultural pause, visit the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, the resting place of Ponce de León.
Culinary exploration is essential. Skip the generic tourist traps near the pier and head deeper into the city. Seek out mofongo (garlicky mashed plantains) at a local staple like El Jibarito or Café Puerto Rico. While the nearby beaches of Condado are beautiful, they require a taxi and contend with traffic. Unless you have visited before, we advise dedicating your day entirely to the history and atmosphere within the city walls, finishing perhaps with a Piña Colada at Barrachina, right in the heart of the old town.
Your priority should be the two massive citadels guarding the coast. Start at Castillo San Cristóbal, the largest Spanish fortification in the New World, before walking the scenic coastal trail to the iconic Castillo San Felipe del Morro. The sheer scale of these defenses is humbling, and the expansive green lawn leading to El Morro—often dotted with kites—provides a dramatic contrast to the deep blue Atlantic.
Between the forts lies a grid of blue cobblestone streets (adoquines) lined with vibrant colonial architecture. The joy here is aimless wandering, though the heat can be intense; stay hydrated and wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the hills. For a cultural pause, visit the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, the resting place of Ponce de León.
Culinary exploration is essential. Skip the generic tourist traps near the pier and head deeper into the city. Seek out mofongo (garlicky mashed plantains) at a local staple like El Jibarito or Café Puerto Rico. While the nearby beaches of Condado are beautiful, they require a taxi and contend with traffic. Unless you have visited before, we advise dedicating your day entirely to the history and atmosphere within the city walls, finishing perhaps with a Piña Colada at Barrachina, right in the heart of the old town.
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.
Charlotte Amalie is the heavy hitter of Caribbean cruising—energetic, scenic, and frequently crowded. While often marketed solely as a duty-free shopping haven, the island offers substantial rewards for those willing to look past the jewelry stores lining Main Street. The town itself is a steep amphitheater of red-roofed Danish colonial buildings rising from the harbor. For history buffs, a walk up the "99 Steps" (built from ship ballast bricks) or a visit to the red-walled Fort Christian provides context often missed by the average shopper.
Most visitors are here for the water. Magens Bay is the headline attraction—a heart-shaped, protected cove that is visually stunning but often packed with fellow cruisers. For a more relaxed experience with superior snorkeling, we recommend Sapphire Beach or the pristine, protected sands of Smith Bay Park (Lindquist Beach). If your ship docks at Havensight, the Skyride to Paradise Point offers the classic Caribbean vista and a convenient spot for a local Bushwacker cocktail.
Crucial Logistics: St. Thomas has two distinct cruise piers: Havensight (closer to town/Skyride) and Crown Bay (further west). Be sure to check your docking location, as it dictates your walking options. Traffic in Charlotte Amalie can be gridlocked in the afternoons; always pad your return time. Getting around is best done via "safari" taxis—converted open-air trucks. They are efficient and affordable, but confirm the fare before boarding. For those who have visited St. Thomas before, the ferry to neighboring St. John offers a quieter, more natural escape, though it requires careful time management.
Most visitors are here for the water. Magens Bay is the headline attraction—a heart-shaped, protected cove that is visually stunning but often packed with fellow cruisers. For a more relaxed experience with superior snorkeling, we recommend Sapphire Beach or the pristine, protected sands of Smith Bay Park (Lindquist Beach). If your ship docks at Havensight, the Skyride to Paradise Point offers the classic Caribbean vista and a convenient spot for a local Bushwacker cocktail.
Crucial Logistics: St. Thomas has two distinct cruise piers: Havensight (closer to town/Skyride) and Crown Bay (further west). Be sure to check your docking location, as it dictates your walking options. Traffic in Charlotte Amalie can be gridlocked in the afternoons; always pad your return time. Getting around is best done via "safari" taxis—converted open-air trucks. They are efficient and affordable, but confirm the fare before boarding. For those who have visited St. Thomas before, the ferry to neighboring St. John offers a quieter, more natural escape, though it requires careful time management.
Our staff can assist you with all your travel arrangements.
Questions? Call us at 800-525-9696.We can assist you with all your travel arrangements. We'd be happy to help you plan your flights, hotels or tours before and/or after your cruise conference.
SHORE EXCURSIONS
Please note that our shore excursions are operated separately and
independently of those offered by the cruise line.
Please note that our shore excursions are operated separately and
independently of those offered by the cruise line.
©2019 - University at Sea®