Nursecon at Sea Recap: The Dominican Republic 2023
By April Rowe, RN
THE ULTIMATE NURSING CONFERENCE
THEN ORWE GIAN PEARL
IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES when you take interactive continuing nursing education (CNE) courses, throw them on a premium cruise ship with thousands of nurses, and set sail to exotic locations like the Caribbean! Thanks to the ingenious idea from Nurse Blake, NurseCon at Sea is available to those seeking a unique and engaging nursing conference experience.
NurseCon at Sea offers nurses an unforgettable way to combine professional development with relaxation and fun. With various daily activities and parties, guests can enjoy themselves both on and off the ship. The pool deck is the perfect place to grab a drink, party with friends, and unwind in the hot tub or pool. Off-shore excursions are a thrilling way to explore new places and create lasting memories.
Not Your Average Nursing Conference
NurseCon at Sea Communications Coordinator Mariana Garces said, “NurseCon at Sea is a new take on a nursing conference. Not only do nurses get accredited CNEs, they also get to interact with other nurses, do fun activities, let loose at the parties and theme nights, and best of all, travel.”
Mariana added, “Blake genuinely cares about his audience and wants to create a safe space for them to interact. He wants to build a community for them and help nurses love their jobs and decompress.” Guests will find Blake mingling amongst them, snapping selfies, and getting to know his fellow nurses and fans.
The Perfect Destination
2023 kicked off with an amazing cruise from Miami to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Over 2,000 guests, including Nurse Blake, took to the sea to fulfill their continuing education requirements while getting in some much-needed fun and relaxation.
Sara Staton, an ICU/IMC/PCU travel nurse from Virginia, was one of the fabulous guests aboard the Dominican Republic cruise. She recalled, “The most memorable moment for me was our excursion to the Zip and Dip in the Dominican Republic. We went hiking, zip lining, and swimming in the waterfalls. The hike was challenging but worth it!”
Off-shore excursions provide the perfect opportunity for guests to explore new cultures, try different cuisines, and make lasting memories. Whether exploring port cities, snorkeling in the ocean, or lounging on the beach, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Sara’s favorite aspects onboard the ship were “all of the music and dancing, and the food and drinks were awesome! I think a lot of people took advantage of the all-inclusive drink package!” With ample restaurants and bars to choose from, guests stay well-fed and fully satisfied.
Attending NurseCon at Sea is not just an excellent way for nurses to further their education and professional development, but they can also connect with other like-minded nurses, create new friendships, and have a truly unforgettable experience. Sara added, “I made new friends and some new networking contacts as well.”
“Nurse Blake is so nice and personable. Any time you see him on board, he’ll stop and chat about absolutely anything! This is one of the main reasons I keep going back!”
It’s not just a one-and-done cruise: nurses keep coming back for more
Repeat cruiser Patrycja Chmielewska, a NICU nurse from Washington, DC, said, “My first cruise was the 2022 sailing to the Bahamas. I had such a blast that I didn’t even hesitate to pre-book on the ship for 2023!” She is already planning to attend the 2024 NurseCon at Sea cruise to Mexico.
Patrycja’s favorite moments from the cruise were “when we went to Nurse Blake Live and were greeted by Nurse Becky instead! The show was absolutely hilarious. Nurse Blake is so nice and personable. Any time you see him on board, he’ll stop and chat about absolutely anything! This is one of the main reasons I keep going back!”
Engaging Cne and Epic Activities
The onboard activities and entertainment will leave you in awe. Transform yourself into a game show participant or applaud from the crowd at Nurse Feud. Dance your heart out at Silent Disco. Show off your nursing skills at the Ultimate Skills Check-off. And don’t forget about the theme nights that bring out your inner diva or divo!
On top of all the endless fun activities available, there are numerous CNE courses to choose from. Each sailing offers over 20 CNE hours. “I one-hundred percent recommend the cruise to others. It’s an amazing way to meet so many wonderful people and get CNEs, all while on vacation. Plus, Nurse Blake knows how to throw a party,” said Patrycja.
Why choose an old-fashioned, boring nursing conference when you can party with Nurse Blake on a cruise ship and thousands of other incredible nurses? Even if you are a solo traveler, you will meet and connect with other nurses who share similar interests and professional goals. So come cruise with us at NurseCon at Sea. You won’t regret it!
APRIL ROWE is a registered nurse, freelance writer, and owner of RNtoPen. She lives with her husband and children in South Carolina and works in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
NurseCon at Sea:
Paradise Bound The Norwegian Pearl embarks on a voyage to the stunning beaches in the Dominican Republic.
Ready To Let Loose! With the ocean breeze in your hair and friends at your side, you're ready for an adventure.
Nursecon At Sea 2023 There’s no better way to kick off The Ultimate Nursing Conference than with an opening ceremony and group picture. Over 2,000 guests set sail with Nurse Blake for a five-day cruise to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
Yoga By The Pool
Guests enjoying some deep breathing and relaxation.
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic: Traditional dancers and musicians made their way through Taino Bay. Guests who chose this excursion could relax by the pool, browse the shops, grab a cocktail, and discover typical Dominican cuisine.
Outrageous Fun!
The most iconic drag show of the sea. Bright wigs, colorful costumes, and nothing but pure fun and entertainment!
Soaking Up The Sun
Between activities and CNE courses, guests sit back, relax, soak up the sun, or cool off in the pool.
Laugh Till You Cry
No one wanted to miss the opportunity to laugh until they cried at Nurse Blake Live. His comedy show sells out worldwide!
Masquerade Night
Guests had a blast flaunting their lavish masks and costumes on Masquerade Night.
Chats Under The Stars
Cozy up around the campfire for an intimate conversation about life as a nurse.
Hobnobbing With Nurse Blake Laura V., Mandi N., and Sara Staton with Nurse Blake
Unforgettable Memories
Whoever said selfies should just be a solo pic?!? Thousands of nurses and guests joined Nurse Blake to capture the moment.
Fitness For All
There were plenty of opportunities to add some fitness to the itinerary aboard the Norwegian Pearl cruise ship: Basketball, pickleball, tennis, rock climbing, and more.
Boots & Bling Party!
Dancing under the stars in cowboy hats and rhinestone chaps at the Boots & Bling Party!
Destinations to Inspire Patrycja Chmielewska at Callejón de la Loma (Umbrella Street) in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.