I have not been keeping up with this blog. The internet is slow but really, there is not much to tell. In St. John's Virgin Island, I did not get off the ship. My hip and right leg has really been bothering me. Bob thinks that my water exercises are to blame. At any rate, each day has been like the others.
We did meet a very nice couple from South Carolina. They live in The Cliffs. We had lunch with them the last two days of the cruise. Bill orders these seafood plates. So he and Bob each had one on Thursday. Lobster, shrimp, scallops, crab claws and legs. All cold but very good. He also ordered one for Friday lunch but only one this time. We ate in the Restaurant and the couple at the table next to us, said she did not see that on the menu. You can order just about anything you want and if possible, you will get it.
Friday evening they had a gathering on the pool deck. It was a farewell to us. A nice affair. The entire service staff rimmed the upper deck of the pool and waved good bye to us.
Saturday we docked in Ft. Lauderdale where there were seven other ships docked. The airport was probably a zoo. But we were off the ship and on the road by 9am. The drive home was uneventful. We finished listening to the book on CD and arrived at the house around 3pm.
Now to send our passports and pictures off to get our VISA's for the next cruise. We need Visa's for China, India, and Australia.
Till then.
Eileen
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
St. Johns, Antigua
Today we docked in St. John's, Antigua. We have been here several times in the past.
Breakfast on the aft deck. We both had the special omelet which turned out to be dry. Oh well. Then back to the suite until it was time to swim. We swam for 45 minutes and then the hot tub. Then we sat on the deck to dry and enjoy a club soda.
We returned to the suite and dressed for lunch. Again on the aft deck where we watched the MSC Musica arrive. They are docked right next to us. We had our nap. I decided to sit on the deck lounge chair and read. Well nap and read. Not the most comfortable but I did get some sleep. Then we decided to walk into town. Barbara joined us for the beginning of our walk. Bob wanted to go up to the church so we left Barbara in the town. The church turned out to be locked up tight. So we returned to the port. The Regent Navigator was also docked here but at a different dock so we could not visit it.
We returned to the ship and sat on the balcony to read. Lots of shade for me and a nice breeze. I am reading "That Old Cape Magic" by Richard Russo. Almost finished.
We dressed for dinner and headed to the Club for our cocktails. I had an Old Fashioned and Bob had his martini with blue cheese stuffed olives. Dinner in the Restaurant at the same table we had the other night. It is a round table but set for only two persons. And in a nice location. It is funny how people want to sit by the window when it is dark out and you can see nothing.
Back to the cabin to look for Monday Night Football but no good. We read and lights out instead. At 3:45 am there was an announcement "Code Alpha" deck 9 forward. Will try and find out what that is about. We think medical but not sure.
Breakfast on the aft deck. We both had the special omelet which turned out to be dry. Oh well. Then back to the suite until it was time to swim. We swam for 45 minutes and then the hot tub. Then we sat on the deck to dry and enjoy a club soda.
We returned to the suite and dressed for lunch. Again on the aft deck where we watched the MSC Musica arrive. They are docked right next to us. We had our nap. I decided to sit on the deck lounge chair and read. Well nap and read. Not the most comfortable but I did get some sleep. Then we decided to walk into town. Barbara joined us for the beginning of our walk. Bob wanted to go up to the church so we left Barbara in the town. The church turned out to be locked up tight. So we returned to the port. The Regent Navigator was also docked here but at a different dock so we could not visit it.
We returned to the ship and sat on the balcony to read. Lots of shade for me and a nice breeze. I am reading "That Old Cape Magic" by Richard Russo. Almost finished.
We dressed for dinner and headed to the Club for our cocktails. I had an Old Fashioned and Bob had his martini with blue cheese stuffed olives. Dinner in the Restaurant at the same table we had the other night. It is a round table but set for only two persons. And in a nice location. It is funny how people want to sit by the window when it is dark out and you can see nothing.
Back to the cabin to look for Monday Night Football but no good. We read and lights out instead. At 3:45 am there was an announcement "Code Alpha" deck 9 forward. Will try and find out what that is about. We think medical but not sure.
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Basseterre, St. Kitts
Today we are docked in Basseterre, St. Kits. Along side our ship is the Silver Whisper. We docked here around 9:30am and we are staying until 11pm. Not that there is that much to do here, just so close to the next port.
Had breakfast on the aft deck and then back to the suite to work on cross stitch until our breakfast settled. Then we headed to the pool. While doing our exercises, June (met her at needlepoint) and her husband came into the pool. I spoke with the husband. They live in New Hampshire and he is a retired professor from UNH. But before Katie's time there. By the time Katie was a student, he had retired. They have been married 69 years. We did our exercises for 45 minutes and then the hot tub. We stayed up on deck for a bit and spoke with Barbara from Long Boat Cay about the football games yesterday. She has a second home in St. Louis so was wondering about Missouri's score. He husband is in a motorize scooter. His name is Chris and we spoke with him as we were leaving the deck.
Today the weather is why you come to the islands. Warm and sunny. A perfect day. We plan to walk in town this afternoon but might change our minds as it is Sunday and most of the stores are closed.
So we had lunch on the aft deck and then our nap. I decided to sit on the balcony for a bit but did go inside to take a decent nap. Then we dressed and headed out. We walked about the town. Not much open but then again, we were not shopping. Back on board we did sit out on our balcony for a bit.
We had out cocktails in the Club and then dinner on the aft deck. Tonight was Tuscan Market. The aft deck was quite windy. My white wine glass was blown over due to Bob's place mat and so I got covered in white wine. Thanks goodness it was not red. Dinner was okay. The mussels were probably the best part of the dinner except for the wine.
Back in the suite where we learned the Jackssonville won. What is up with that? Now looking for a late football game but if not, read and lights out.
Had breakfast on the aft deck and then back to the suite to work on cross stitch until our breakfast settled. Then we headed to the pool. While doing our exercises, June (met her at needlepoint) and her husband came into the pool. I spoke with the husband. They live in New Hampshire and he is a retired professor from UNH. But before Katie's time there. By the time Katie was a student, he had retired. They have been married 69 years. We did our exercises for 45 minutes and then the hot tub. We stayed up on deck for a bit and spoke with Barbara from Long Boat Cay about the football games yesterday. She has a second home in St. Louis so was wondering about Missouri's score. He husband is in a motorize scooter. His name is Chris and we spoke with him as we were leaving the deck.
Today the weather is why you come to the islands. Warm and sunny. A perfect day. We plan to walk in town this afternoon but might change our minds as it is Sunday and most of the stores are closed.
So we had lunch on the aft deck and then our nap. I decided to sit on the balcony for a bit but did go inside to take a decent nap. Then we dressed and headed out. We walked about the town. Not much open but then again, we were not shopping. Back on board we did sit out on our balcony for a bit.
We had out cocktails in the Club and then dinner on the aft deck. Tonight was Tuscan Market. The aft deck was quite windy. My white wine glass was blown over due to Bob's place mat and so I got covered in white wine. Thanks goodness it was not red. Dinner was okay. The mussels were probably the best part of the dinner except for the wine.
Back in the suite where we learned the Jackssonville won. What is up with that? Now looking for a late football game but if not, read and lights out.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Saturday finds us docked in San Juan. We were up early and watched us come into port. There are two ships already here but they are on the other side of the harbor. Celebrity Summit and Royal Caribbean Jewel of the Sea. We are docked right down town. But the weather is not so good. Rain and clouds.
Aft deck for breakfast. Bob had an omelet this morning while I had yogurt fruit and an English Muffin. After breakfast we headed back to the cabin. Then down to the Square for tea and reading. While we were returning to the cabin, they announced that the crew will be having a drill. We changed into our swim suits and headed out to the pool right before they closed the fire doors. This would mean you could not pass from one area to another. So we made it with the cabin girls telling us to hurry.
It was raining but not too heavy so we swam anyway. You are already wet so why not. We did 45 minutes and then into the hot tub. The pool water is at 84 degrees so very pleasant. At the end of our swim, a lady joined us. By this time the rain had stopped.
We changed for lunch which we ate inside. Today was Mexican and not my favorite. Then back to the suite for our nap. After the nap we decided to try the tea up in the Observation Lounge. Bob and I both enjoyed the African Amber tea. All quite good and tasty. The weather continues to be raining off and on. Not a good day to walk about the city so we did not even get off the ship.
Back to the suite to get cleaned up for dinner. We went back up to the Observation Lounge and this time asked for Makers Old Fashioned. Not as good as mine are but okay. We then went down to the Club and asked for the Old Fashioned and these were better, I think. After a full one, who can really tell. We spoke with Annabelle (cruise director) and asked about Barry Hopkins. We have sailed with Barry a few times and really care about him. Last we heard he was battling kidney cancer. Now we learn it is lung and bone. Not a good report.
Dinner in the restaurant. I again had tomato soup and lamb chops. No dessert. Back to the cabin to watch the end of the football game and then lights out.
Aft deck for breakfast. Bob had an omelet this morning while I had yogurt fruit and an English Muffin. After breakfast we headed back to the cabin. Then down to the Square for tea and reading. While we were returning to the cabin, they announced that the crew will be having a drill. We changed into our swim suits and headed out to the pool right before they closed the fire doors. This would mean you could not pass from one area to another. So we made it with the cabin girls telling us to hurry.
It was raining but not too heavy so we swam anyway. You are already wet so why not. We did 45 minutes and then into the hot tub. The pool water is at 84 degrees so very pleasant. At the end of our swim, a lady joined us. By this time the rain had stopped.
We changed for lunch which we ate inside. Today was Mexican and not my favorite. Then back to the suite for our nap. After the nap we decided to try the tea up in the Observation Lounge. Bob and I both enjoyed the African Amber tea. All quite good and tasty. The weather continues to be raining off and on. Not a good day to walk about the city so we did not even get off the ship.
Back to the suite to get cleaned up for dinner. We went back up to the Observation Lounge and this time asked for Makers Old Fashioned. Not as good as mine are but okay. We then went down to the Club and asked for the Old Fashioned and these were better, I think. After a full one, who can really tell. We spoke with Annabelle (cruise director) and asked about Barry Hopkins. We have sailed with Barry a few times and really care about him. Last we heard he was battling kidney cancer. Now we learn it is lung and bone. Not a good report.
Dinner in the restaurant. I again had tomato soup and lamb chops. No dessert. Back to the cabin to watch the end of the football game and then lights out.
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Sea Day #2
Friday was our second sea day. This time the weather was much better. Still windy but at least the sun is shinning.
We had breakfast on the aft deck. I had an egg white omelet with mushrooms and tomatoes. Bob had a plate of sausages and mustard. When we came back to the suite, Mila was cleaning it so we went to the Square for coffee and read some. While doing some cross stitch, Barbara from Long Boat Cay came over to talk.
We decided to try and swim so we changed and headed out to the pool. There were two others in the pool. The water was not bad. Lots of motion and the pool is deep that I cannot touch the bottom. Makes you work harder. But we did out exercises for 45 minutes and then the hot tub. Lots of people were sunning themselves.
I cleaned up and hurried to needlepoint. I had promised Rose I would give her a needlepoint kit I had brought from home but when I got there, no Rose. I stayed and talked with the ladies for a bit and then returned to the suite.
Lunch on the aft deck and then our nap.
We were invited by the chef for a tour of the galley. This was very interesting. There were about 12 of us that were on the tour. We had been in the galley before as they used to have a galley lunch and the galley was like a buffet line. They do not do that sort of thing if they have caviar in the surf.
Dressed for dinner and then up to the Club for cocktails. Bob ordered his caviar. Then down to dinner where we had a nice table for two. Tonight was lobster night. I started with a beet salad and then the lobster. My lobster was slightly mushy. Then I enjoyed a cheese plate while Bob had a soufflé. Back to the cabin to read and then lights out.
Tomorrow is our first port of call - San Juan.
We had breakfast on the aft deck. I had an egg white omelet with mushrooms and tomatoes. Bob had a plate of sausages and mustard. When we came back to the suite, Mila was cleaning it so we went to the Square for coffee and read some. While doing some cross stitch, Barbara from Long Boat Cay came over to talk.
We decided to try and swim so we changed and headed out to the pool. There were two others in the pool. The water was not bad. Lots of motion and the pool is deep that I cannot touch the bottom. Makes you work harder. But we did out exercises for 45 minutes and then the hot tub. Lots of people were sunning themselves.
I cleaned up and hurried to needlepoint. I had promised Rose I would give her a needlepoint kit I had brought from home but when I got there, no Rose. I stayed and talked with the ladies for a bit and then returned to the suite.
Lunch on the aft deck and then our nap.
We were invited by the chef for a tour of the galley. This was very interesting. There were about 12 of us that were on the tour. We had been in the galley before as they used to have a galley lunch and the galley was like a buffet line. They do not do that sort of thing if they have caviar in the surf.
Dressed for dinner and then up to the Club for cocktails. Bob ordered his caviar. Then down to dinner where we had a nice table for two. Tonight was lobster night. I started with a beet salad and then the lobster. My lobster was slightly mushy. Then I enjoyed a cheese plate while Bob had a soufflé. Back to the cabin to read and then lights out.
Tomorrow is our first port of call - San Juan.
Thursday, November 28, 2013
Sea Day #1
Today is Thanksgiving. So Happy Thanksgiving to all who decide to read this blog.
We are at sea today. The winds are high and the sea are sort of strong. One of the disadvantages of a suite at the front of the ship, you cannot go out on the deck or you will be blown away. There is some motion of the ship but not enough to bother me.
We were up for breakfast in the aft deck. We did sit outside. The winds were not as bad back here. Bob had eggs benedict and lamb chops while I had fruit and cheerios.
For those who did not know, when we booked this cruise we did a guarantee balcony. And then we were offered an upgrade to a penthouse and we took that. And again, we were offered an upgrade to the Owners Suite. We figured this is a once in a lifetime chance so we took it. So when we opened the door, this is what we found. A large room across the entire width of the ship which included a dining table for four and a couch and chair plus a desk.
The there is also a bar area and a kitchen with a coffee maker and a refrigerator. Plus our Scotch which we ordered. Like we need more to drink. The hallway is to the door to enter the suite. There is a powder room on the left as you enter.
The bedroom is separate from the living area. A nice king size bed but not much space between the bed and the wall. Our luggage was in the suite when we arrived which was nice.
The sofa is the most uncomfortable we have ever had. So I sit at the table and Bob sits at the desk.
This is the desk where Bob sits at his computer.
The entrance hallway again.
The balcony goes from the middle of the ship around to the side. A disadvantage when the winds are blowing. But there is a table out there that we can use when we are in port.
This is the area on the side but again, while sailing it is very windy as there is no wind barrier.
So today while at sea, we had terrible weather. Rain and wind all day. I did go to the needlepoint gathering but it was not like on Regent or Oceania. But met some very nice ladies. And some not so nice ones too.
Tonight was the block party where we met some of our neighbors. Very similar to what Regent does. Met three bothers and their wives who are from Michigan and Gainsville. At least one is from Gainsville. Plus some other folks. A nice way to get to know each other.
Dinner was in the Restaurant. We had a nice table for two by the window. A family of four who we sat next to last night were seated next to us again tonight. A young couple from Ft. Lauderdale and her mother and grandfather. They all are from Turkey originally. Mother and Grandfather still live in Turkey. They are just visiting the couple. He is in IT and gets to work from home two days a week.
Back to the suite to work on blog and the bed.
We are at sea today. The winds are high and the sea are sort of strong. One of the disadvantages of a suite at the front of the ship, you cannot go out on the deck or you will be blown away. There is some motion of the ship but not enough to bother me.
We were up for breakfast in the aft deck. We did sit outside. The winds were not as bad back here. Bob had eggs benedict and lamb chops while I had fruit and cheerios.
For those who did not know, when we booked this cruise we did a guarantee balcony. And then we were offered an upgrade to a penthouse and we took that. And again, we were offered an upgrade to the Owners Suite. We figured this is a once in a lifetime chance so we took it. So when we opened the door, this is what we found. A large room across the entire width of the ship which included a dining table for four and a couch and chair plus a desk.
The there is also a bar area and a kitchen with a coffee maker and a refrigerator. Plus our Scotch which we ordered. Like we need more to drink. The hallway is to the door to enter the suite. There is a powder room on the left as you enter.
The sofa is the most uncomfortable we have ever had. So I sit at the table and Bob sits at the desk.
This is the desk where Bob sits at his computer.
The entrance hallway again.
The balcony goes from the middle of the ship around to the side. A disadvantage when the winds are blowing. But there is a table out there that we can use when we are in port.
So today while at sea, we had terrible weather. Rain and wind all day. I did go to the needlepoint gathering but it was not like on Regent or Oceania. But met some very nice ladies. And some not so nice ones too.
Tonight was the block party where we met some of our neighbors. Very similar to what Regent does. Met three bothers and their wives who are from Michigan and Gainsville. At least one is from Gainsville. Plus some other folks. A nice way to get to know each other.
Dinner was in the Restaurant. We had a nice table for two by the window. A family of four who we sat next to last night were seated next to us again tonight. A young couple from Ft. Lauderdale and her mother and grandfather. They all are from Turkey originally. Mother and Grandfather still live in Turkey. They are just visiting the couple. He is in IT and gets to work from home two days a week.
Back to the suite to work on blog and the bed.
Thanksgiving Cruise
I was not going to blog this trip but, this is a way for me to remember so here goes.
Monday we got a call from our TA telling us that the ship was going to be delayed coming to Ft. Lauderdale. It appears the Captain got ill and had to be off loaded by tender to Dominican Republic. His wife was with him. He was to start his holiday when the ship arrived in Ft. Lauderdale. When something like a Captain taking sick, they have a Staff Captain on board who is qualified to take over.
So we headed to Boca like we planned on Tuesday and when we reached the hotel, we asked for a late check out time as now boarding was no until 6pm. We got to stay at the hotel until 1pm. Oh well. We went up to our room and rested until it was time for the Managers Cocktail hour. We had dinner at the hotel and then back up to our room. I watched some of Dancing with the Stars but went to bed instead.
Wednesday we had breakfast in the hotel and then back to the room where I watched the internet Dancing with the Stars. You can not fast forward through the ads but they are not as long as regular TV. We checked out of the hotel and headed to the Boca Town Center. What a place. We bought Bob and new iPad cover and then had a nice salad for lunch at the Grand Lux Cafe. We continued walking the mall, this town center is all indoors, and stopped at Neiman Marcus (I know it is spelled wrong) and walked through it. We stopped at a handbag and I asked Bob how much he thought it was. He said $500.00 and it was really $2095.00. I passed on buying it.
We headed to the port and dropped off the luggage at around 3:30 pm. After parking the car, we were able to enter the terminal and wait for embarkation. After about 45 minutes, we were on the ship. We are in the owners suite. Quite a beautiful suite but the bad part, it is in the front of the ship so you do get movement. We had a muster drill and then back to the suite to dress for dinner.
Cocktails in the Club where no blue cheese stuffed olives until tomorrow. They promise they will have them in all the Lounges. Just two but a nice way to be treated.
Dinner was quite good. I had the tomato soup and lamb chops which were wonderful, small but tasty. No dessert. Back to the suite and bed. A long day but a good day.
Monday we got a call from our TA telling us that the ship was going to be delayed coming to Ft. Lauderdale. It appears the Captain got ill and had to be off loaded by tender to Dominican Republic. His wife was with him. He was to start his holiday when the ship arrived in Ft. Lauderdale. When something like a Captain taking sick, they have a Staff Captain on board who is qualified to take over.
So we headed to Boca like we planned on Tuesday and when we reached the hotel, we asked for a late check out time as now boarding was no until 6pm. We got to stay at the hotel until 1pm. Oh well. We went up to our room and rested until it was time for the Managers Cocktail hour. We had dinner at the hotel and then back up to our room. I watched some of Dancing with the Stars but went to bed instead.
Wednesday we had breakfast in the hotel and then back to the room where I watched the internet Dancing with the Stars. You can not fast forward through the ads but they are not as long as regular TV. We checked out of the hotel and headed to the Boca Town Center. What a place. We bought Bob and new iPad cover and then had a nice salad for lunch at the Grand Lux Cafe. We continued walking the mall, this town center is all indoors, and stopped at Neiman Marcus (I know it is spelled wrong) and walked through it. We stopped at a handbag and I asked Bob how much he thought it was. He said $500.00 and it was really $2095.00. I passed on buying it.
We headed to the port and dropped off the luggage at around 3:30 pm. After parking the car, we were able to enter the terminal and wait for embarkation. After about 45 minutes, we were on the ship. We are in the owners suite. Quite a beautiful suite but the bad part, it is in the front of the ship so you do get movement. We had a muster drill and then back to the suite to dress for dinner.
Cocktails in the Club where no blue cheese stuffed olives until tomorrow. They promise they will have them in all the Lounges. Just two but a nice way to be treated.
Dinner was quite good. I had the tomato soup and lamb chops which were wonderful, small but tasty. No dessert. Back to the suite and bed. A long day but a good day.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Charleston, Day Two
This morning our tour is "Fort Sumter and the Civil War". We took a bus to the place where you catch the boat that takes you to Fort Sumter. There we just walked around and stopped in the museum where they have a nice display of articles from the Civil War. Down here in South Carolina, they call it the War of Northern Aggression. We returned to the shore and rebounded the bus and rode around Charleston while the guide pointed out things left from the Civil War.
We then headed out of town to visit the Citadel. This was very interesting. The freshmen students have to walk double time and not on the sidewalks. They now have women students here so they do not get their heads shaved but their hair is cut short. But they double time also. The freshmen also do not have their names on their jackets. Maybe they think they will not last. Who knows.
We returned to the ship for a quick lunch but we were joined by Susan from South Florida. So we talked for about 45 minutes. Closed the Veranda. Then back for our nap.
By this time the weather had changed and was now raining. So I did not go back into town. Save that for another time. We are not that far from Charleston so maybe when the weather warms, will drive up again.
Got dressed for dinner and had cocktails in the Stars Lounge. Matt joined us for a bit. Then to dinner. Tonight we were eating with Florian. He is the Food and Beverage Manager. It was a table for 7. One couple from Arizona and one other from Brooklyn and Orlando. Bob and I both had the lobster and enjoyed it.
Returned to the cabin and lights out.
We then headed out of town to visit the Citadel. This was very interesting. The freshmen students have to walk double time and not on the sidewalks. They now have women students here so they do not get their heads shaved but their hair is cut short. But they double time also. The freshmen also do not have their names on their jackets. Maybe they think they will not last. Who knows.
We returned to the ship for a quick lunch but we were joined by Susan from South Florida. So we talked for about 45 minutes. Closed the Veranda. Then back for our nap.
By this time the weather had changed and was now raining. So I did not go back into town. Save that for another time. We are not that far from Charleston so maybe when the weather warms, will drive up again.
Got dressed for dinner and had cocktails in the Stars Lounge. Matt joined us for a bit. Then to dinner. Tonight we were eating with Florian. He is the Food and Beverage Manager. It was a table for 7. One couple from Arizona and one other from Brooklyn and Orlando. Bob and I both had the lobster and enjoyed it.
Returned to the cabin and lights out.
Charleston, South Carolina
Up for breakfast and had to sit in Prime 7 as everyone was up at the same time. Then back to the cabin. We arrived in Charleston at around 9am. Bob took some pictures of us sailing into the harbor. Charleston sits at the junction of the Ashley River and the Cooper River.
Our tour was "Historic Charleston Carriage Tour". The tour lasted about one hour. It was a nice over view of the city. Our guide was Dale and she did a nice job of explaining the different style of homes here in Charleston.
Back to the ship for lunch. We decided to eat outside by the pool. We were joined by Graham and Diane from Australia. We sat and talk with them for about one hour. So I got some sunburn on the backs of my arms.
Back for the nap but I had a pedicure scheduled for 3 pm. The girl doing the pedicure is from Jamaica. She has been on ships for 9 years. Her ex-husband works on the Oasis of the Seas. Nice to be able to talk with the person doing the pedicure. At home, not so much.
We are eating with Mary Kay tonight. Her daughter flew home today. We met for cocktails in Galileo and then headed to Compass Rose for dinner. We had a nice dinner and then after dinner B52's at the Stars Lounge. Then to cabin and watch a little football and lights out.
Our tour was "Historic Charleston Carriage Tour". The tour lasted about one hour. It was a nice over view of the city. Our guide was Dale and she did a nice job of explaining the different style of homes here in Charleston.
Back to the ship for lunch. We decided to eat outside by the pool. We were joined by Graham and Diane from Australia. We sat and talk with them for about one hour. So I got some sunburn on the backs of my arms.
Back for the nap but I had a pedicure scheduled for 3 pm. The girl doing the pedicure is from Jamaica. She has been on ships for 9 years. Her ex-husband works on the Oasis of the Seas. Nice to be able to talk with the person doing the pedicure. At home, not so much.
We are eating with Mary Kay tonight. Her daughter flew home today. We met for cocktails in Galileo and then headed to Compass Rose for dinner. We had a nice dinner and then after dinner B52's at the Stars Lounge. Then to cabin and watch a little football and lights out.
Monday, November 4, 2013
Day at Sea
Sunday is a sea day. We did not turn our clocks back, will do that tonight. But our phones changed automatically. So we thought it was 7:30am and when we put on our watches which said it was 8:30am. So we were tardy. Breakfast on Sunday is Caviar and Champagne. Bob and I each had an eggs florentine. Really good.
We had another Muster drill. New rule is that on all cruises over 14 days, a second emergency drill must be held. So we went but did not have to go to the life boats and it is windy today.
Then we returned to the cabin and I finished my book. I took it back to the library and then we went up for lunch. Today they were having a TexMex lunch on the deck. We passed and just had a small lunch as we are having dinner tonight at Prime 7.
After our nap, we went up and swam for 45 minutes and 10 minutes in the hot tub. Bob had checked the water temp and said it was warm. Not so but it was okay. Some movement of the water as it is windy and the seas are rolly.
We cleaned up for dinner and headed up to the Galileo Lounge for a cocktail. While we were sitting, Matt (one of the dancers) came and sat with us. It was nice to speak with him and learn a little about life on the ship as a worker and not a passenger. Matt is married to the male gymnast but he has a single cabin on deck 4. His husband shares a cabin with the female gymnast on deck 5. Matt is considered one of the crew and the gymnasts are considered guest artists.
We then headed to dinner in Prime 7. We were not able to get reservations earlier for this place. We were seated at a table for two by the wall. Not the best location but I guess those with the 6:30 time slot get the best seats. We ordered and I had the onion soup and Bob had oysters Rockefeller. When they came to take the dishes away, Bob asked for another order. The waiter said that he had put our main course order in but he could have them on the side. With that came the main course. Service was much to fast for this place. They did not need to seat anyone else at this table later so what with the rush service. And my steak was lukewarm. I need to realize that no one can make a steak like Ruth Chris. Oh well. We both had fruit for dessert and finished our wine and left.
Came back to the cabin and watched some of the football games. Then lights out and bed. We gained the hour tonight.
.
We had another Muster drill. New rule is that on all cruises over 14 days, a second emergency drill must be held. So we went but did not have to go to the life boats and it is windy today.
Then we returned to the cabin and I finished my book. I took it back to the library and then we went up for lunch. Today they were having a TexMex lunch on the deck. We passed and just had a small lunch as we are having dinner tonight at Prime 7.
After our nap, we went up and swam for 45 minutes and 10 minutes in the hot tub. Bob had checked the water temp and said it was warm. Not so but it was okay. Some movement of the water as it is windy and the seas are rolly.
We cleaned up for dinner and headed up to the Galileo Lounge for a cocktail. While we were sitting, Matt (one of the dancers) came and sat with us. It was nice to speak with him and learn a little about life on the ship as a worker and not a passenger. Matt is married to the male gymnast but he has a single cabin on deck 4. His husband shares a cabin with the female gymnast on deck 5. Matt is considered one of the crew and the gymnasts are considered guest artists.
We then headed to dinner in Prime 7. We were not able to get reservations earlier for this place. We were seated at a table for two by the wall. Not the best location but I guess those with the 6:30 time slot get the best seats. We ordered and I had the onion soup and Bob had oysters Rockefeller. When they came to take the dishes away, Bob asked for another order. The waiter said that he had put our main course order in but he could have them on the side. With that came the main course. Service was much to fast for this place. They did not need to seat anyone else at this table later so what with the rush service. And my steak was lukewarm. I need to realize that no one can make a steak like Ruth Chris. Oh well. We both had fruit for dessert and finished our wine and left.
Came back to the cabin and watched some of the football games. Then lights out and bed. We gained the hour tonight.
.
Sunday, November 3, 2013
New York Day Two - "New York by Land and Sea"
We were in New York overnight. Last night when we returned to the ship, we sort of changed and got ready for dinner. We skipped cocktails as we were late getting back to the ship. What? Can't remember what we had but after dinner we stopped for after dinner drinks. There we met up with Mary Kay and Kate. Mary Kay is the mother and was on our South American cruise.
Returned to the cabin and read and then lights out.
Up in the morning and to breakfast. Then got ready for our tour. Today we were doing the New York by Land and Sea. What we did not realize, this was just about the same as yesterday. Oh well, at least today the traffic was not as bad.
We got on a tour boat at the South Street Seaport. What we never knew is that as a result of the storm Sandy, the Seaport was completely flooded and will not reopen. They will tear it down and build condos. All the stores are closed and they lost all of their inventory. The boat ride was around the East River and the Hudson River. Got fairly up close to the Statue of Liberty. The boat was not only those from the ship but all kinds of people. A lot of them were Chinese and very pushy. They lined the upper rails and no one could see over them.
Back on the bus, we drove by the world trade buildings. Up to Macy's and then back to the ship. We had lunch and then our nap.
They had emptied the pool and were just now refilling it. So no exercises for us.
Kate called us and so we cleaned up and met them in the Galileo Lounge where they were watching our sail away. They were having dinner with Ray so we ate at a table for two. I had a very nice chicken dish but could only eat one of the pieces. Bob had the fish dish. We then went to the Seven Seas Lounge and Mary Kay and Kate joined us. Kate left and went to the show and Mary Kay, Bob and I went up to deck 7 to sit in the back and watch the show. Mary Kay left and Bob and I stayed to the end. The shows are good but after 80+ cruises, they are the same old, same old to us. The kids are very energetic and do a nice job. I just guess Bob and I are getting too old. Heaven forbid.
Returned to the cabin and read and then lights out.
Up in the morning and to breakfast. Then got ready for our tour. Today we were doing the New York by Land and Sea. What we did not realize, this was just about the same as yesterday. Oh well, at least today the traffic was not as bad.
We got on a tour boat at the South Street Seaport. What we never knew is that as a result of the storm Sandy, the Seaport was completely flooded and will not reopen. They will tear it down and build condos. All the stores are closed and they lost all of their inventory. The boat ride was around the East River and the Hudson River. Got fairly up close to the Statue of Liberty. The boat was not only those from the ship but all kinds of people. A lot of them were Chinese and very pushy. They lined the upper rails and no one could see over them.
Back on the bus, we drove by the world trade buildings. Up to Macy's and then back to the ship. We had lunch and then our nap.
They had emptied the pool and were just now refilling it. So no exercises for us.
Kate called us and so we cleaned up and met them in the Galileo Lounge where they were watching our sail away. They were having dinner with Ray so we ate at a table for two. I had a very nice chicken dish but could only eat one of the pieces. Bob had the fish dish. We then went to the Seven Seas Lounge and Mary Kay and Kate joined us. Kate left and went to the show and Mary Kay, Bob and I went up to deck 7 to sit in the back and watch the show. Mary Kay left and Bob and I stayed to the end. The shows are good but after 80+ cruises, they are the same old, same old to us. The kids are very energetic and do a nice job. I just guess Bob and I are getting too old. Heaven forbid.
New York Tour "Highlights of Manhattan"
Friday we arrived in Manhattan. Our tour was Highlights of Manhattan. We gathered in the lounge to await our tour. We headed for the buses and headed out. Our guide was Jim and he was very good. Told us about lots of the buildings here in Manhattan and also those who lived in them. You know, gossip. Loved it.
Here in Battery Park there is a great area for you to walk around. The Statue of Liberty is behind me. Can you see it in the distance?
Just more pictures of this nice area of the city.
Our next stop was to St. Paul's Chapel. This was the George Washington attended services. St Paul's survived the Great Fire of 1776. It became George Washington's church until the second Trinity Church was built. It also survived the the 911 attacks. St. Paul's became the site of a round the clock relief ministry to the more than 14,000 volunteers. It offered them a place of refuge, where food, medical attention, space to rest, and support were provided to hundreds of rescue workers. Today, St. Paul's Chapel and historic Trinity Church make up Trinity Wall Street, the Episcopal parish for the community.
This is the Governor's pew.
One of the outfits worn by the rescue workers.
A view of the Chapel from the front.
Washington's pew.
Freedom Tower.
Our first stop on the tour was to Battery Park. This entire area was flooded during Super Storm Sandy.
The news people kept telling us about the shore area but in New York, South Street Seaport was completely flooded and will no longer be opened. They are now planning to tear it down and build condos in its place. Why did they not tell us about this?
Here in Battery Park there is a great area for you to walk around. The Statue of Liberty is behind me. Can you see it in the distance?
Just more pictures of this nice area of the city.
Our next stop was to St. Paul's Chapel. This was the George Washington attended services. St Paul's survived the Great Fire of 1776. It became George Washington's church until the second Trinity Church was built. It also survived the the 911 attacks. St. Paul's became the site of a round the clock relief ministry to the more than 14,000 volunteers. It offered them a place of refuge, where food, medical attention, space to rest, and support were provided to hundreds of rescue workers. Today, St. Paul's Chapel and historic Trinity Church make up Trinity Wall Street, the Episcopal parish for the community.
This is the Governor's pew.
One of the outfits worn by the rescue workers.
A view of the Chapel from the front.
Washington's pew.
Freedom Tower.
This is where you get your ticket to visit the Memorial Fountain. I misunderstood and thought we were going to the Fountains. Will plan better for our next visit.
We returned to the ship but it took us 1 and one half hour with all the traffic.
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Sailing into New York on Friday
We spent the morning at sea sailing from Boston to New York. The day was overcast and windy.
The first thing you have to do is sail under the Verrazano Bridge. The bridge follows the curve of the earth. It connects Brooklyn to Staten Island. This is the bridge the New York Marathoners will race over at the beginning of the marathon on Sunday.
Our first sight of the city. New York is made up of five boroughs. Queens, Bronx, Brooklyn, Staten Island and Manhattan.
And the the sight all were waiting for. Well, maybe all the Americans were waiting for. Not so sure about the French or the Spanish passengers.
Bob got a great up close shot of the Statue of Liberty.
The tall building in the center of this picture is the Freedom Tower. There will not be any building on the site of tower one and two. That is where the Memorial Fountain is with all the names of the victims. The original World Trade Center consisted of seven buildings. All were destroyed on 911. They are only rebuilding five building. The entire site is 21 acres of land. The Freedom Tower is almost complete. It is the tallest building in North America because of the spire on top.
Another great view of Manhattan. The orange boat is the Staten Island Ferry. When I was little, my Dad used to say the longest ride for a nickel. Now it is free.
Not sure what this building is but I liked it.
While Bob was up taking pictures, one of the passengers took his picture.
We are docked at pier 88. Just down from us is the Intrepid. This is now a museum but we did not have time to see it this trip. Next time.
Some of the planes on the Intrepid. Where we are docked is where Captain Sully landed the UA Airways flight on the Hudson River.
There were two other ships in port with us. The Carnival Splendor and the AIDAbella. The Splendor left around 5pm and the Crystal Symphony arrived. Then the three ships stayed here overnight.
The first thing you have to do is sail under the Verrazano Bridge. The bridge follows the curve of the earth. It connects Brooklyn to Staten Island. This is the bridge the New York Marathoners will race over at the beginning of the marathon on Sunday.
Our first sight of the city. New York is made up of five boroughs. Queens, Bronx, Brooklyn, Staten Island and Manhattan.
And the the sight all were waiting for. Well, maybe all the Americans were waiting for. Not so sure about the French or the Spanish passengers.
Bob got a great up close shot of the Statue of Liberty.
The tall building in the center of this picture is the Freedom Tower. There will not be any building on the site of tower one and two. That is where the Memorial Fountain is with all the names of the victims. The original World Trade Center consisted of seven buildings. All were destroyed on 911. They are only rebuilding five building. The entire site is 21 acres of land. The Freedom Tower is almost complete. It is the tallest building in North America because of the spire on top.
Another great view of Manhattan. The orange boat is the Staten Island Ferry. When I was little, my Dad used to say the longest ride for a nickel. Now it is free.
Not sure what this building is but I liked it.
While Bob was up taking pictures, one of the passengers took his picture.
We are docked at pier 88. Just down from us is the Intrepid. This is now a museum but we did not have time to see it this trip. Next time.
Some of the planes on the Intrepid. Where we are docked is where Captain Sully landed the UA Airways flight on the Hudson River.
There were two other ships in port with us. The Carnival Splendor and the AIDAbella. The Splendor left around 5pm and the Crystal Symphony arrived. Then the three ships stayed here overnight.
New York, New York
Thursday night we finally had the lobster they bought in Bar Harbor. They were small but good. Mine was a little mushy but the claw meat was great. Maybe from a different lobster.
Before dinner we headed to the lounge for a cocktail. This lounge is right before the theater. So we stood in the doorway and watched some of the show. Sorry to say, same old, same old. So we sat and had our cocktail and then headed to Compass Rose for dinner.
Overnight the waters became quite rough. Lots of rocking and rolling. They call it Elvis seas. Rock and roll. Cute. Not so bad but you needed to hold on to the rails. This ship is not so big so I think you feel the movement more than on other ships.
In the morning it was still rocky. We came into the harbor at around 11 am. It was windy up on the decks and because our cabin is on the right side of the ship, it meant we had to be up on the deck to see the Statue of Liberty. Will post pictures later. I could use the same ones I posted back in June when we came into New York on the QM2. But I won't.
We gathered for our tour. We did a Manhattan Highlights. I misunderstood what we were to see. I thought we were going to the 911 memorial but we only went to the 911 preview site. Oh well, a reason to return to the city another time.
We did drive by Trinity Church. Trinity Church is right down on Wall Street area. This is the church where Jim Cooper is Rector. He was my rector in Ponte Vedra for several years. After 911, Father Howard, who was the rector here at Trinity at the time, was elected to become Bishop of North Florida and that is when Jim Cooper was assigned up here. He still has his home in Ponte Vedra. If I had planned better, we might have been able to get to visit with him. Another next time.
The traffic in this city is terrible. I do not know how people stand it on a daily basis. It took us one and a half hours to get from St. Paul's Church back to the ship. What a mess.
We got back to the ship and just changed some items and headed to dinner. The service tonight was so fast. We were in and out in one hour. So after dinner we headed up to Galileo Lounge and no one was there so we went back down to the Seven Seas Lounge where we had an after dinner drink. Bob ordered a Scotch that costs extra and had the bartender scrambling to figure out where the Scotch was and how to charge.
Mary Kay and her daughter, Kate, came up so we ended up talking with them for several minutes. Then back to the cabin and I read a bit and lights out.
Before dinner we headed to the lounge for a cocktail. This lounge is right before the theater. So we stood in the doorway and watched some of the show. Sorry to say, same old, same old. So we sat and had our cocktail and then headed to Compass Rose for dinner.
Overnight the waters became quite rough. Lots of rocking and rolling. They call it Elvis seas. Rock and roll. Cute. Not so bad but you needed to hold on to the rails. This ship is not so big so I think you feel the movement more than on other ships.
In the morning it was still rocky. We came into the harbor at around 11 am. It was windy up on the decks and because our cabin is on the right side of the ship, it meant we had to be up on the deck to see the Statue of Liberty. Will post pictures later. I could use the same ones I posted back in June when we came into New York on the QM2. But I won't.
We gathered for our tour. We did a Manhattan Highlights. I misunderstood what we were to see. I thought we were going to the 911 memorial but we only went to the 911 preview site. Oh well, a reason to return to the city another time.
We did drive by Trinity Church. Trinity Church is right down on Wall Street area. This is the church where Jim Cooper is Rector. He was my rector in Ponte Vedra for several years. After 911, Father Howard, who was the rector here at Trinity at the time, was elected to become Bishop of North Florida and that is when Jim Cooper was assigned up here. He still has his home in Ponte Vedra. If I had planned better, we might have been able to get to visit with him. Another next time.
The traffic in this city is terrible. I do not know how people stand it on a daily basis. It took us one and a half hours to get from St. Paul's Church back to the ship. What a mess.
We got back to the ship and just changed some items and headed to dinner. The service tonight was so fast. We were in and out in one hour. So after dinner we headed up to Galileo Lounge and no one was there so we went back down to the Seven Seas Lounge where we had an after dinner drink. Bob ordered a Scotch that costs extra and had the bartender scrambling to figure out where the Scotch was and how to charge.
Mary Kay and her daughter, Kate, came up so we ended up talking with them for several minutes. Then back to the cabin and I read a bit and lights out.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Boston - Home of the 2013 World Series Champions!!!
Today we were up early and watched us sail into Boston. We are docked next to the Crystal Symphony. We had an early breakfast but when Bob went up to check the water temperature, he found it chilly. So we decided to go into town instead of swim.
We took the shuttle that Regent runs into the area by the aquarium. After we got off, we walked around a bit and then decided to grab a cup of clam chowder at Legal Seafood. There is a new one near where we are docked, so we decided to walk back to the restaurant. We got there a little early, so we sat and waited for 11am when they sat us facing the water. For those who know Boston, this is near Harpoon Brewery. They are really changing this area. For the better.
We both had a mug of clam chowder and it is still as good as we remember. Then I had some fried clams and Bob had clams casino. We finished and walked the rest of the way back to the ship. At this time we were tired, so we cancelled our afternoon tour which was a walk in the North End. We took a nap instead.
When we woke, we decided we could swim. So 45 minutes in the pool and 10 minutes in the hot tub. The ship is really quiet. I guess all the folks are wandering the streets of Boston.
Tonight they are having the show before dinner. I think we have seen this one on the Celebrity. Might not go.
A side note about the Titanic. In 1912 the cruise ships were not required to have life boats for all the passengers. That is why there were so many lives lost. After that disaster, SOLAS (Safety of life at sea) required all ships to have enough life boats for all passengers and crew. There were other changes for the better that came from that disaster. Today you are required to have a safety drill before sailing.
Back to Boston, it seemed everyone we met today was in a great mood. What winning a World Series will do for you. Now someone please explain to me why the Phillies got rid of Vic? Great for Boston, not so good for the Phillies.
Looking forward to lobster for dinner. Will tell all about the evening tomorrow. We arrive in New York at noon.
We took the shuttle that Regent runs into the area by the aquarium. After we got off, we walked around a bit and then decided to grab a cup of clam chowder at Legal Seafood. There is a new one near where we are docked, so we decided to walk back to the restaurant. We got there a little early, so we sat and waited for 11am when they sat us facing the water. For those who know Boston, this is near Harpoon Brewery. They are really changing this area. For the better.
We both had a mug of clam chowder and it is still as good as we remember. Then I had some fried clams and Bob had clams casino. We finished and walked the rest of the way back to the ship. At this time we were tired, so we cancelled our afternoon tour which was a walk in the North End. We took a nap instead.
When we woke, we decided we could swim. So 45 minutes in the pool and 10 minutes in the hot tub. The ship is really quiet. I guess all the folks are wandering the streets of Boston.
Tonight they are having the show before dinner. I think we have seen this one on the Celebrity. Might not go.
A side note about the Titanic. In 1912 the cruise ships were not required to have life boats for all the passengers. That is why there were so many lives lost. After that disaster, SOLAS (Safety of life at sea) required all ships to have enough life boats for all passengers and crew. There were other changes for the better that came from that disaster. Today you are required to have a safety drill before sailing.
Back to Boston, it seemed everyone we met today was in a great mood. What winning a World Series will do for you. Now someone please explain to me why the Phillies got rid of Vic? Great for Boston, not so good for the Phillies.
Looking forward to lobster for dinner. Will tell all about the evening tomorrow. We arrive in New York at noon.
Halifax in Pictures
Last night we had the party for the gold and above. There are about 160 of us in this group. We were entertained with a classical piano concert. It was very nice. After that we went to Compass Rose where I thought we were going to have lobster. But no, they will be served tonight. I was not impressed with any of the selections so I just had a baked potato and spinach.
Back to the cabin and we started to watch "The Lone Ranger" starring Johnny Depp. What a bomb. Not at all like Bob and I remember the Lone Ranger as kids. But we watched about half of it and will finish up tonight.
And now for the pictures of Halifax.
It still amazes me that these cruise ship float the way they do. They look top heavy to me. This is the Crystal Symphony coming into port after us.
As you enter the Museum, this figure greets you.
This explains a little about piracy.
This is a model built for the Museum. It is to scale and very well done.
View of Halifax from the ship.
Another view of Halifax from the ship.
This is the Weston Hotel. I thought it looked like a hospital.
After the Museum we drove around Halifax to the Fairview Lawn Cemetery.
The stones are arranged like the hull of a ship. There are some stones larger than other. These have been paid for by family.
If they knew the names, they marked it as such. Some are just the date.
Alma Paulson lost her four children but those bodies were never recovered. Her husband wanted the names of the four children listed on her stone. He had come to America a year before to get work. She was traveling to be with him with her children.
They recovered a pair of tiny shoes and kept saying the unknown child. A few years ago, a group got permission to dig up the remains and test it to see if they could find out who this child was. After several tests, they now believe he is Sidney Leslie Goodwin.
The family had this stone added to his grave. So now he is no longer the unknown child.
The numbers on the stones are the order the bodies were recovered. This tour was sort of grim but interesting non the less.
Back to the cabin and we started to watch "The Lone Ranger" starring Johnny Depp. What a bomb. Not at all like Bob and I remember the Lone Ranger as kids. But we watched about half of it and will finish up tonight.
And now for the pictures of Halifax.
As you enter the Museum, this figure greets you.
This explains a little about piracy.
This is a model built for the Museum. It is to scale and very well done.
View of Halifax from the ship.
After the Museum we drove around Halifax to the Fairview Lawn Cemetery.
The stones are arranged like the hull of a ship. There are some stones larger than other. These have been paid for by family.
If they knew the names, they marked it as such. Some are just the date.
Alma Paulson lost her four children but those bodies were never recovered. Her husband wanted the names of the four children listed on her stone. He had come to America a year before to get work. She was traveling to be with him with her children.
They recovered a pair of tiny shoes and kept saying the unknown child. A few years ago, a group got permission to dig up the remains and test it to see if they could find out who this child was. After several tests, they now believe he is Sidney Leslie Goodwin.
The numbers on the stones are the order the bodies were recovered. This tour was sort of grim but interesting non the less.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Bar Harbor, Maine
We then went up to the pool to do our exercises. The water was hot. It was really too hot but we hung in there and did 45 minutes and then to the hot tub. The water in the pool is salt and so it is nice to get that off you by the hot tub. I would use the shower but that water is freezing.
Downtown Bar Harbor.
A view of this beautiful area.
We changed and got ready to tender into town. When the tender we were to take came ship side, they off loaded about 12 large boxes of lobsters. I guess we are having lobster for dinner, at least I hope so.
We took to the tender into town and walked about. Stopped at a Rite Aid for some supplies and then continued walking for about one hour. Since we think we are having lobster for dinner, we skipped trying to find some to eat in Bar Harbor and headed back to our ship for lunch.
Our wonderful tender.
Our ship at anchor.
While we were walking, we met up with a couple who are on the Crystal Symphony that we met in Montreal. They are from California. Bob is amazed I can remember faces like I do. Names not so much.
Had a nice lunch and then back to the cabin for our nap. Now catching up with the blog while Bob does the pictures. Tonight we have the party for the gold, etc. This we will attend.
Last night we went up to the Galileo Lounge and Bob had to go up to the bar to get service. This is not what we are used to. Then to dinner in Compass Rose where we were given a nice table for two but not by the window. We said that was fine, it is dark out so what can you see anyway. For dinner I had sea bass that was very similar to the sea bass we had on the Riveria in Red Ginger. It was wonderful. Wrapped in a banana leaf.
After dinner we returned to the cabin and watched "The Heat". Funny but not great. Lights out.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Halifax, Canada
Today we are docked in Halifax. Our tour is not until this afternoon so we do not have to rush with breakfast. This is the capital of Nova Scotia and a major port city.
We ate and then returned to the cabin to let our food settle before we swam. We went up to the pool ar around 9:30am and the water was cold. Really made you move faster. The air temp is about 40F but sunny. So we did our exercises and the water warmed as we went. Tomorrow we will start later in the day. That way you have the entire day for the water to warm up.
Then back to the cabin and an early lunch as our tour leaves at 12:25pm. We were on the tour of Halifax and the Titanic experience. There is a Maritime Museum of the Atlantic where they have some of the artifacts from the Titanic. Then we drove out to Fairview Lawn Cemetery. This cemetery contains 121 graves of the victims from the Titanic.
On April 14, 1912, the Titanic hit an iceberg and sank. On Monday April 15th the Carpathia arrived on the scene and rescued more than 700 survivors. The Carpathia sailed to New York and the grim task of recovering the victims was given to four Canadian vessels.
On April 17th, the Halifax based Cable Steamer Mackay-Bennett set sail with a minister, an undertaker, and a cargo of ice, coffins and canvas bags. She arrived to the site on April 20th and during the next five days, the crew recovered 306 bodies, 116 of them were buried at sea.
A second Cable Steamer, Minia, left on April 22nd, and after eight days of searching, recovered 17 bodies, two of which were buried at sea.
The majority of the bodies were unloaded in Halifax. 59 bodies were shipped out by train to their families. The rest were buried in three Halifax cemeteries between May 3rd and June 12th.
It was interesting to visit the cemetery. I will post pictures tomorrow.
Back on the ship, we rested and then got ready for dinner. There is a repeaters party tonight but we will probably not go as of the 450 passengers, 420 are repeaters. Will be crowded. And tomorrow night we have a party for the Gold, Platinum and Titanium passengers. We are Gold but will become Platinum on our next cruise.
So we will dress for dinner and have a cocktail at one of the lounges. Tomorrow we are in Bar Harbor, Maine. We get the hour we lost back tonight.
We ate and then returned to the cabin to let our food settle before we swam. We went up to the pool ar around 9:30am and the water was cold. Really made you move faster. The air temp is about 40F but sunny. So we did our exercises and the water warmed as we went. Tomorrow we will start later in the day. That way you have the entire day for the water to warm up.
Then back to the cabin and an early lunch as our tour leaves at 12:25pm. We were on the tour of Halifax and the Titanic experience. There is a Maritime Museum of the Atlantic where they have some of the artifacts from the Titanic. Then we drove out to Fairview Lawn Cemetery. This cemetery contains 121 graves of the victims from the Titanic.
On April 14, 1912, the Titanic hit an iceberg and sank. On Monday April 15th the Carpathia arrived on the scene and rescued more than 700 survivors. The Carpathia sailed to New York and the grim task of recovering the victims was given to four Canadian vessels.
On April 17th, the Halifax based Cable Steamer Mackay-Bennett set sail with a minister, an undertaker, and a cargo of ice, coffins and canvas bags. She arrived to the site on April 20th and during the next five days, the crew recovered 306 bodies, 116 of them were buried at sea.
A second Cable Steamer, Minia, left on April 22nd, and after eight days of searching, recovered 17 bodies, two of which were buried at sea.
The majority of the bodies were unloaded in Halifax. 59 bodies were shipped out by train to their families. The rest were buried in three Halifax cemeteries between May 3rd and June 12th.
It was interesting to visit the cemetery. I will post pictures tomorrow.
Back on the ship, we rested and then got ready for dinner. There is a repeaters party tonight but we will probably not go as of the 450 passengers, 420 are repeaters. Will be crowded. And tomorrow night we have a party for the Gold, Platinum and Titanium passengers. We are Gold but will become Platinum on our next cruise.
So we will dress for dinner and have a cocktail at one of the lounges. Tomorrow we are in Bar Harbor, Maine. We get the hour we lost back tonight.
Sydney, Nove Scotia, Canada
Today we are in Sydney. The weather is suppose to become very windy this afternoon so the Captain has decided to anchor and not dock as Sydney has no tug boat and we would be stuck here until the winds died down. Last night we had decided not to take the tour so we turned our tickets into the desk on our way to cocktails.
We had our before dinner cocktails up in the Galileo Lounge. We threw them a curve ball by ordering our blue cheese stuffed olives. So it took a while for our drinks to come. The man at the table next to us got worried for us. Nice that he was concerned.
We had dinner in Compass Rose. I had the lamb chops while Bob had a rib eye steak. We started with a blue crab dish and then the Caesar salad. And strawberries for dessert. All quite good. Then we returned to the cabin to watch football.
After breakfast this morning, we returned to the cabin for about an hour and then up to the pool to do our exercises. The pool was not as warm today. I think they turn off the heaters over night and then turn them back on in the morning so if we want warmer water, we need to exercise later in the day. But we got it in and now feel great.
The weather is becoming more cloudy and windy so we will not be going into the town as we planned. We have been here before so it is fine to skip this time.
After lunch and our nap, I headed up to Galileo Lounge and worked on my needlepoint. The group gathered a little later. I met Matt. He is a dancer from UK. Has been doing this for several years. He started working on NCL but now with Regent. He is married to another performer. They spend the time off the ship in either the UK or Canada. When the dance company started working with Regent, he could not believe he would have to run needlepoint. But now he loves it. Very relaxing. While with NCL they had to do three show a night and then a night off and then three shows the next night. Here on Regent, only one show with four different shows per cruise. But they run the games, bingo, etc. while on Regent. He says he likes this because he gets to meet lots of guests and he could not do that before.
Returned to the cabin to clean up for dinner. We went back to the Galileo Lounge for cocktails and the service up there is slow. We remember that before, the wait staff would offer you second drinks. Maybe they are cutting back on alcohol. Who knows.
Dinner in Compass Rose where we had a nice table for two. I had the P.E.I. mussels and then prime rib. Bob had a chicken dish. All again, very good. When we returned to the cabin, she was making it up so we went to the Navigator Lounge and had an after dinner drink. Then to the cabin and read. The football game did not come on until 9 something, so we just read and then lights out.
We had our before dinner cocktails up in the Galileo Lounge. We threw them a curve ball by ordering our blue cheese stuffed olives. So it took a while for our drinks to come. The man at the table next to us got worried for us. Nice that he was concerned.
We had dinner in Compass Rose. I had the lamb chops while Bob had a rib eye steak. We started with a blue crab dish and then the Caesar salad. And strawberries for dessert. All quite good. Then we returned to the cabin to watch football.
After breakfast this morning, we returned to the cabin for about an hour and then up to the pool to do our exercises. The pool was not as warm today. I think they turn off the heaters over night and then turn them back on in the morning so if we want warmer water, we need to exercise later in the day. But we got it in and now feel great.
The weather is becoming more cloudy and windy so we will not be going into the town as we planned. We have been here before so it is fine to skip this time.
After lunch and our nap, I headed up to Galileo Lounge and worked on my needlepoint. The group gathered a little later. I met Matt. He is a dancer from UK. Has been doing this for several years. He started working on NCL but now with Regent. He is married to another performer. They spend the time off the ship in either the UK or Canada. When the dance company started working with Regent, he could not believe he would have to run needlepoint. But now he loves it. Very relaxing. While with NCL they had to do three show a night and then a night off and then three shows the next night. Here on Regent, only one show with four different shows per cruise. But they run the games, bingo, etc. while on Regent. He says he likes this because he gets to meet lots of guests and he could not do that before.
Returned to the cabin to clean up for dinner. We went back to the Galileo Lounge for cocktails and the service up there is slow. We remember that before, the wait staff would offer you second drinks. Maybe they are cutting back on alcohol. Who knows.
Dinner in Compass Rose where we had a nice table for two. I had the P.E.I. mussels and then prime rib. Bob had a chicken dish. All again, very good. When we returned to the cabin, she was making it up so we went to the Navigator Lounge and had an after dinner drink. Then to the cabin and read. The football game did not come on until 9 something, so we just read and then lights out.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Anne of Green Gables Tour
Yesterday we were in Prince Edward Island and our tour was Anne of Green Gable and a tour of the island.
Our first stop was to Prince Edward Island Preserve Company. They sell all kinds of jelly, jams, tea cups, etc.
Outside of the store there was this little guy. The Island has a Scottish feel to it. Many people from Scotland settled here.
The front of the store. Notice the large chicken.
In case you missed the chicken, here it is again. Very clever if I say so myself.
This is the grave of Lucy Maud Montgomery, The author of the book "Anne of Green Gable". She married a pastor by the name of MacDonald, thus the name on the head stone.
This is the house of green gable. Lucy did not live in this house but was owned by her relatives and she visited it ofter. The entire story is fiction.
You can tour the entire home. Rooms are like they were in Lucy's time. Very well presented. the dining room is above. Lots of colorful wall papers.
One of several bedrooms. The beds seem small to me.
This is the kitchen. Not like our kitchens.
Another bedroom.
The yarn winder is on the table.
And the spinning wheel.
The front of the house.
The barn has the fake cow.
Below is the start of Lovers Lane. Bob and I walked the entire length. Pleasant as the weather was still clear. It did start to rain at the end of the tour.
After we left the house we drove out to the coast called the bluffs. Notice the red sandstone. This is the north side of the island. The beach behind us has been voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. And below is just another beautiful view of the sandstone.
Our first stop was to Prince Edward Island Preserve Company. They sell all kinds of jelly, jams, tea cups, etc.
Outside of the store there was this little guy. The Island has a Scottish feel to it. Many people from Scotland settled here.
The front of the store. Notice the large chicken.
In case you missed the chicken, here it is again. Very clever if I say so myself.
This is the grave of Lucy Maud Montgomery, The author of the book "Anne of Green Gable". She married a pastor by the name of MacDonald, thus the name on the head stone.
This is the house of green gable. Lucy did not live in this house but was owned by her relatives and she visited it ofter. The entire story is fiction.
You can tour the entire home. Rooms are like they were in Lucy's time. Very well presented. the dining room is above. Lots of colorful wall papers.
One of several bedrooms. The beds seem small to me.
This is the kitchen. Not like our kitchens.
Another bedroom.
The yarn winder is on the table.
And the spinning wheel.
The front of the house.
The barn has the fake cow.
Below is the start of Lovers Lane. Bob and I walked the entire length. Pleasant as the weather was still clear. It did start to rain at the end of the tour.
After we left the house we drove out to the coast called the bluffs. Notice the red sandstone. This is the north side of the island. The beach behind us has been voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. And below is just another beautiful view of the sandstone.
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