It's D Day Part 1...

So when we got back last evening we started to pull together an itinerary for the rest of the holiday. Not because we wanted to be super organised, but to make sure we used all the activities we had booked or could take advantage of.

Let's just say that by the time we'd finished, there isn't a lot of free time.

No one was in a rush to get up this morning so we had a lazy early morning on the balcony before heading out.

We had booked 4 seats on the Sea Screamer, which is supposedly the world's largest speedboat. The purpose of the trip being to see some dolphins... Our trip was at 2, so we headed off to get some lunch on the way. This is our fourth trip to the states as a family and we have never been to McDonald's. So Miss H was very happy...

The verdict was a fab meal, more nuggets than you get in the UK but our fries are better and more salty.

After taking a leisurely stroll to the marina it started to get very dark and the unmistakable sound of thunder was heard.

We were informed that the start time had been pushed back 30 minutes to allow the thunder and lightning to pass.

So at 2.30pm we boarded our vessel and headed out into the Gulf of Mexico. After a brief site seeing tour the captain opened up the engines and headed out in search of dolphins. They like to play in the wake of the boat when it is motoring along.

It's an amazing experience to see these awesome mammals close up. Hopefully the videos above work. We have other footage but need to edit it, otherwise you will need to wait for us to get back to the UK.

After our cruise we headed off for a cold drink. On our boat trip the sun had reappeared and the temperature rocketed upwards.

We decided to try Jimmy's Crows Nest, a bar on the 10th floor with a great view of the beach and surrounding area. Had planned to go there later in the holiday to watch the sunset and have mocktails but given the small range of drinks I'm not sure this is going to happen.

After a drink Miss B and H went for a swim before we stopped off for an obligatory ice cream. It was only when we were nearly finished that I realised we hadn't taken any photos. Will just have to go back I guess...

After showering and changing we headed out for a bite to eat and returned (at Mrs J's suggestion) to Hooters... for their Wednesday special...

After a stroll round town we are back in the apartment and typing up this post whilst everyone gets ready for bed.