tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77614344824253740992011-12-21T08:31:15.358-08:00Cruise blog: ramblings, reflections and cruise news from a now, quite frankly, obsessed cruiser who was a crew member in her former life.koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.comBlogger851100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-65825767387153284222009-09-07T18:34:00.001-07:002009-09-07T18:36:07.813-07:00

Children behave.... Six American tourists charged in Antigua scuffle.

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-27451372174394553612009-09-07T08:35:00.001-07:002009-09-07T08:37:50.832-07:00

Image via WikipediaVenice in peril?

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-32072164622794967842009-09-03T11:13:00.003-07:002009-09-03T11:15:58.618-07:00

Royal Caribbean's Oasis or how to spend, spend, spend on sea days!What a great retail line up.

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-42438141936076864762009-08-31T12:43:00.004-07:002009-08-31T14:32:53.625-07:00

Shore power for cruise ships at Canada Place a Canadian first

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-4729670038331772132009-08-22T08:59:00.002-07:002009-08-22T09:04:39.503-07:00

No word on the ship, just that it was a German river cruise ship.Passengers saved from burning cruise ship

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-45059081520350123732009-08-21T10:10:00.002-07:002009-08-21T10:12:19.274-07:00

With some pics! This sounds like a nice place to just kind of hang out and people watch - live music, too!Carnival Dream's Ocean Plaza coming along.

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-78710603890592568252009-08-21T07:47:00.004-07:002009-08-21T07:59:18.432-07:00

Many updates from Holland America this morning. I particularly like this one: Holland America Line Expands Group Advantage Program Features I mean, martini classes? Who could say no to that?Then there is their Well-Being, Suite Amenities and Suite Elite Packages featuring select combinations for fitness, luxury and revitalization.And one day maybe press releases such as this one will actually

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-74380056602273240842009-08-20T05:39:00.000-07:002009-08-20T05:41:14.138-07:00

Ruby Princess Swimming Pool Becomes Latest Canvas for Famed Marine Life Artist Wyland

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-38777091472968296072009-08-18T10:09:00.001-07:002009-08-18T10:09:27.726-07:00

Tobacco plants yield the first vaccine for the dreaded 'cruise ship virus'

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-69709190233991724292009-08-18T09:01:00.000-07:002009-08-18T09:01:28.068-07:00

Carnival Cruise Lines Encourages Children to Dream Big With the Virtual Book of Dreams Contest

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-59512777691253649292009-08-17T09:19:00.003-07:002009-08-17T12:20:00.080-07:00

Image via WikipediaAlaska State Troopers are asking Holland America why they were so quick to declare woman's death a suicide.Was cruise ship passenger's death a suicide?

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-59224016341991857002009-08-14T07:52:00.003-07:002009-08-14T07:59:09.659-07:00

Image by ragingwire via FlickrI like the idea that passengers will be able to post pictures and videos, too. I wonder how much opinions and comments will be moderated.Norwegian Cruise Line Invites Guests To Share Their Freestyle Cruising Experiences On Company's Web Sit

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-66196439485083156542009-08-13T10:37:00.001-07:002009-08-13T10:39:44.469-07:00

Image by afagen via FlickrCarnival Ecstasy earns award for guest services

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-19772294281794297912009-08-13T09:25:00.001-07:002009-08-13T09:26:53.749-07:00

What a fabulous idea and kudos to them!Lesbians Save the World, One Cruise at a Time

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-72495983862821930022009-08-12T15:58:00.004-07:002009-08-12T16:00:51.535-07:00

Image via WikipediaNot only do I need pots of money but lots of free time. Maybe one day....Kennedy Center Chamber Players of the National Symphony Orchestra to Present Cunard Command Performances Aboard Queen Mary 2

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-87895588369699643472009-08-12T15:14:00.003-07:002009-08-12T15:16:55.130-07:00

Image via WikipediaOh, to have pots of money. These cruises sound heavenly...Fall Trips for Foodies: Crystal Voyages Sate Travelers' Appetites

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-54262345460916455092009-08-11T20:59:00.003-07:002009-08-11T21:01:47.163-07:00

Necropsy results show whale had been dead 5-7 days before being struck

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-26160393967358549742009-08-11T17:36:00.006-07:002009-08-11T19:16:53.346-07:00

Dear Carnival/Celebrity/HAL/Norwegian/Princess/Royal Caribbean:I am sending you all this simple plea although I realize I have more chance of my cat reading it.Could you please, please, please introduce more West Coast/Pacific Northwest cruises? There are a handful at the beginning and end of the Alaska season and I usually try to go on at least one a season. But there just aren’t enough! Some

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-36028354427781430932009-08-11T10:13:00.002-07:002009-08-11T10:20:09.549-07:00

I love this ship and now I love it even more.Carnival Spirit earns perfect 100 Health Canada inspection score.

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-33782105922832636672009-08-11T07:52:00.003-07:002009-08-11T07:54:15.390-07:00

It may be time for my first Royal Caribbean cruise. Yum....International Culinary Phenom Named Chef for Signature Restaurant Onboard Oasis of the Seas

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-22968642086577407312009-08-10T13:49:00.002-07:002009-08-10T13:51:33.701-07:00

This type of thing seems to have happened a lot in the past few months... whatever works.Canadian fugitive arrested onboard cruise ship.

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-38936122559613578502009-08-10T11:08:00.002-07:002009-08-10T11:13:13.926-07:00

What a fabulous promotion and novel opportunity to win a free cruise! Who doesn't love a great romance.Princess Cruises and Cruise Critic Celebrate National Romance Week With Search for 'Real-Life Love Stories'

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-86307898062266426462009-08-05T12:08:00.001-07:002009-08-05T12:10:07.323-07:00

This sounds like a great cruise, especially if you like live music!Tickets are Officially on Sale to the General Public for the ‘VH1 Best Cruise Ever’ Hosted By 3 Doors Down Aboard the Carnival Inspiration

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-29604274083390273852009-08-04T13:18:00.002-07:002009-08-04T13:19:55.709-07:00

Love sailing out of San Diego!Work Begins on New Cruise Ship Terminal in San Diego - San Diego 6

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-62572497439271647682009-08-04T10:53:00.003-07:002009-08-04T10:56:50.538-07:00

Very sad.Cruise line calls missing Alaska passenger a suicide

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-42029788496503114082009-08-03T22:12:00.001-07:002009-08-03T22:14:17.310-07:00

Woman's Body Located

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-22695702573814312562009-08-03T15:55:00.000-07:002009-08-03T15:56:52.954-07:00

Search launched for missing cruise ship passenger

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-31687494693196828232009-07-30T15:38:00.003-07:002009-07-30T15:40:56.241-07:00

Cruise ship to pay for cleanup of oil spill in Vancouver harbourThis is the same ship that was detained in New York in June when a safety inspection discovered a small hole in its hull along with other minor deficiencies.Cruise ship detained in New York CityNot very good...

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-67318187757145349272009-07-30T09:55:00.001-07:002009-07-30T09:57:52.504-07:00

Crime reports may become mandatory on cruises

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-2013007948033812672009-07-30T07:43:00.002-07:002009-07-30T07:46:52.090-07:00

Governor doesn't support head tax repeal

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-75942139046788466792009-07-29T18:36:00.006-07:002009-07-29T20:04:31.072-07:00

Image via WikipediaIn Vancouver we are currently in the midst of a insane heat wave. It's about 5,000 degrees out right now and if I didn't think I'd be electrocuted, I'd be writing this from the comfort of my bathtub. One thing that does help, though, is the glass of cold, local chenin blanc I have at my side. I love wine and I love cruising. No surprise, then, that one of my favourite

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-51772633697169932872009-07-29T10:08:00.000-07:002009-07-29T10:09:40.587-07:00

'Here Comes the Sun': Celebrity Equinox Named in Southampton— Founder of Walk the Walk Presides as Godmother of Second New Solstice-Class Ship

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-35314270129976389102009-07-29T09:35:00.005-07:002009-07-29T09:45:34.133-07:00

In case you needed one, it's good for the economy...Cruise Lines Generate Record $40 Billion Contribution To U.S. Economy In 2008

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-92151840505992992782009-07-27T14:12:00.002-07:002009-07-27T14:13:45.711-07:00

Update to the unfortunate whale incident.Necropsy: Whale may have been sick

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-45007344745125444412009-07-27T13:48:00.005-07:002009-07-27T14:31:37.175-07:00

Image via WikipediaGuests of Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Azamara Cruises Enjoy More Options, Peace of Mind with New ChoiceAirThis looks pretty flexible allowing passengers to select their airline and itinerary at the time of booking.

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-27237340475202567422009-07-26T14:00:00.009-07:002009-07-26T14:08:38.944-07:00

Image via WikipediaSummit Participants Push Repeal of Cruise Tax

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-53849868334232423372009-07-26T10:15:00.001-07:002009-07-26T20:16:31.347-07:00

Like many, I like to bring wine on board when I cruise: some for cabin use, some with dinner in the dining room. Different lines have different policies, though, as to what you are officially allowed to bring on. Unless consumed in your cabin, they will all officially charge a corkage fee for drinking it in the dining room. Officially being the operative word in both cases and oftentimes

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-84887545679209415502009-07-25T10:58:00.007-07:002009-07-26T09:01:35.995-07:00

Oh, this is so very sad.Cruise ship impales baby whale, docks at Vancouver portUPDATE: This is a press release from Princess as of yesterday afternoon taken from their website. News Article7/25/2009Sapphire Princess StatementThis morning at 6:30 am as Sapphire Princess was preparing to dock in Vancouver, a dead whale was discovered on top of the bulbous bow, the part of the bow that goes

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-67035473466072494142009-07-24T11:57:00.003-07:002009-07-24T12:00:52.812-07:00

If you can do either or know someone who can, here's a great opportunity. Auditions in New York in September.Casting call: singers and dancers for Celebrity's Equinox and Solstice shipsGood luck!

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-92144857514024400902009-07-24T11:26:00.003-07:002009-07-24T11:29:21.652-07:00

Holland America may stop visiting Bermuda?Hotels chief: MPs are destroying tourist trade

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-86852007645683061302009-07-24T07:44:00.005-07:002009-07-24T07:45:56.638-07:00

Greece: swine flu cases found aboard Ruby Princess in Greece

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-71005301222689506572009-07-24T07:39:00.001-07:002009-07-24T07:40:44.074-07:00

Art collection on new Celebrity Equinox includes pieces from Celebrity GalaxyCelebrity Cruises Artfully Presents 'The Essence of Equinox'

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-34776945698475480532009-07-23T12:16:00.002-07:002009-07-23T12:21:02.078-07:00

Just thought I'd post a link to this interesting article outlining the differences between the European and American cruise markets, focusing mostly on Costa and MSC Cruises. Great reading particularly for any North Americans considering either line.Understanding the European Cruise Market

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-86382595075194212402009-07-23T08:45:00.004-07:002009-07-23T09:01:50.776-07:00

Celebrity Cruises Launches 'Celebrity Life'Interesting - Celebrity and Oceania both have very intriguing dining changes within a day of each other. Others to follow?

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-78754000640942636922009-07-22T13:50:00.004-07:002009-07-22T13:56:53.702-07:00

Image via WikipediaBe still my beating heart: yum, yum.....World Renowned Master Chef Jacques Pepin to Open French Bistro Onboard Oceania Cruises' New Marina

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-91667845185328571632009-07-22T07:43:00.005-07:002009-07-22T09:01:58.831-07:00

Image via WikipediaEmbarkation day for passengers: as exciting and fun as debarkation day is not. Getting on the ship for the first time, checking everything out, unpacking, lifeboat drill, maybe a cocktail or two before dinner. And then your first big meal on board and meeting your new dinner mates. Fingers crossed you're all compatible and there's not a lot of long, awkward pauses. After

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-77849942749322101142009-07-21T15:00:00.006-07:002009-07-21T15:09:36.321-07:00

Things get overlooked. Like, say, blogs for instance. I am just back from a long weekend away with friends which involved some golf, a lot of sun, and a lot more wineries and bottles of wine. We were in B.C.'s wine country and I have the as yet unpacked boxes of wine and a staggering credit card bill to prove it.But this has nothing to do about cruises and everything to do with my absence. And

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-18247188884609438562009-07-16T15:31:00.002-07:002009-07-16T15:34:45.769-07:00

If my husband had his way cruises would have no sea days - just one port after another. Me, I like a nice mixture of the two. We have been on a couple of 14-day Southern Caribbean cruises where just about every single day was in port. Halfway through I was exhausted, wanting nothing better than to sleep in till, oh, I don't know, maybe nine. Instead, I found myself staggering out of bed early

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-77467849385817236372009-07-16T15:12:00.001-07:002009-07-16T15:12:24.762-07:00

Man Accused of Killing Wife on Cruise to Mexico - ABC News

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-55140604041463342182009-07-16T10:32:00.003-07:002009-07-16T10:38:56.929-07:00

FBI: Woman Killed on CruiseI'll post more details as they become available.

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-32704811376494565482009-07-16T09:33:00.003-07:002009-07-16T09:37:56.159-07:00

Interactive 'FunHub' to Debut on New Carnival Dream

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-61441466003075909572009-07-15T13:01:00.002-07:002009-07-15T13:04:33.620-07:00

Royal Caribbean Campaign Stars Actual Cruisers

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-28474508892136560972009-07-15T11:47:00.005-07:002009-07-15T19:33:43.484-07:00

Cruise lines surge as US-Cuba talks raise hopeImage via Wikipedia

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-41673556374589782782009-07-13T14:54:00.012-07:002009-07-13T21:33:42.759-07:00

Image via WikipediaJust came across this site with pictures of a couple of old cruise ships, in the hands of ship breakers in Alang, India. One of the ships, the Topaz, originally sailed as the RMS Empress of Britain with Canadian Pacific Steamship. In later incarnations she also sailed with Carnival as SS Carnivale. Maybe some of you remember her?The other ship, the SS Maxim Gorkiy, was

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-49468660575434967832009-07-12T09:48:00.007-07:002009-07-12T09:55:05.046-07:00

Oil spill in Norwegian fjord

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-46470738196339549272009-07-12T08:30:00.003-07:002009-07-12T08:39:51.592-07:00

QE2 may operate as floating hotel

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-55284636333489289932009-07-11T20:23:00.005-07:002009-07-13T16:14:51.541-07:00

When I first joined the ship I was in heaven. The food! The food! From day one I just strapped on the feed bag and went for it. I would start each day with smoked salmon and cream cheese on a bagel. Cereal? I don't think so. Lunch was an all-out exercise in carbo loading. And after snacking in the afternoon on bar snacks or dainty little afternoon-tea sandwiches there was dinner.Every night

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-69303975981916278562009-07-10T18:09:00.002-07:002009-07-10T18:11:16.001-07:00

Or maybe it was a beautiful sunny day with what seemed the gentlest of swells. No matter: whenever I came back from leave I almost always got seasick when the weather or seas turned. It was usually just once and then I was good for another four months. I wasn't alone. Both our cruise director and chief engineer, with many years at sea between them, got sick when they came back from leave, as

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-32410680823942235872009-07-10T12:10:00.003-07:002009-07-10T12:13:20.040-07:00

For those who enjoy Bermuda cruises and gambling:Cruise ship gambling bill defeated

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-65730183247558636072009-07-09T16:53:00.005-07:002009-07-09T17:12:09.558-07:00

First, thank you all who have submitted wine store suggestions. I hope to start getting something concrete together within a week or so.Unfortunately, my time today has been spent comforting and pampering my kitty who is unlikely to see Sunday. Any of you who have been there know how hard it is. I'm afraid I just don't have much focus right now to write anything worthwhile.In the meantime, if

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-16674240314033947272009-07-08T12:32:00.013-07:002009-07-08T15:42:39.434-07:00

Is it just me? I have Googled, Yahooed and MSNed and cannot seem to find a site that lists places close to embarkation ports - preferably worldwide - where you can pick up some wine before boarding. I know it's something I'd find useful and judging from the posts of others on Cruise Critic, I'm not alone.I can do a lot of the research myself but would love to get input from those with

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-60007547416605596592009-07-08T08:25:00.008-07:002009-07-08T08:34:31.152-07:00

Celebrity has revamped their Captain's Club recognition program for repeat guests. Some of these benefits will roll out as early as this month. Others to follow.Details on their website:Celebrity Cruises launches New Captain's Club; members are "Center of Attention"

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-30308072734284863262009-07-08T08:10:00.006-07:002009-07-08T08:35:23.416-07:00

Cruise ship industry reverses stance, backs federal safety bill - Los Angeles Times

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-74714845711535742352009-07-07T09:42:00.004-07:002009-07-07T10:05:28.516-07:00

On quiet days aboard the ship, usually when everyone was ashore, my favourite time was when our captain used to come down to the office for a visit. He always referred to us as "my lovelies" and truth be told, there were at least a couple of us who had a crush on him. We referred to these times as his "fireside chats" and apart from great stories, he would often throw in an explanation of a

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-38250940956826353742009-07-06T14:10:00.006-07:002009-07-06T18:14:24.597-07:00

As being reported by the British media:Man dies in cruise ship bug outbreakUPDATE: There are now reports that this death was unrelated to the bug outbreak as reported below:150 people fall ill on virus-struck cruise ship

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-72993737861963742022009-07-06T10:53:00.011-07:002009-07-06T18:56:37.908-07:00

When I signed up to work on a ship, I pictured myself traveling the world, having fabulous meals, walking the decks late at night gazing at the stars. I never imagined myself in a cramped room, late at night, ink up to my elbows, in tears trying to get a printing press working while plotting its demise.On our ship we in the purser’s office were responsible for producing all the ship’s printed

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-73292228332113237162009-07-05T09:54:00.006-07:002009-07-06T16:21:52.008-07:00

It is finally going to happen beginning in August:Go-ahead for new Seattle trainIt looks like this will depart Seattle later in the day and then depart Vancouver in the morning, exact schedules unknown right now.Hopefully the Seattle departure will be late enough to benefit those disembarking trying to get from Seattle to Vancouver. The current train is much, much too early. As for leaving

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-90996976223639426142009-07-04T12:04:00.003-07:002009-07-04T12:06:49.282-07:00

Just came across this article which may be very useful for iPhone users. I'm not so can't comment from personal experience.iPhones ahoy! Making calls on cruise ships, updatedShared via AddThis

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-11526913115987076592009-07-03T16:33:00.011-07:002009-07-03T18:10:04.617-07:00

Apart from the excitement of putting down the deposit on a cruise the next best part is the final payment date. Assuming you've budgeted wisely, of course, and you even have the final payment. Barring freak storms, flu outbreaks or civil unrest, the cruise is within sight.I did just that today, well, my husband did, for our Oct. 2 Zaandam cruise. No more backing out now without paying

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-27182439012386024822009-07-02T06:56:00.002-07:002009-07-02T18:23:21.459-07:00

CHARLOTTE AMALIE (AP) -- An amphibious tour bus veered off a road Wednesday, injuring about 30 cruise ship passengers who were taking a shore excursion in the US Virgin Islands, police said.The Duckaneer, which has a boat-like hull for traveling in water and wheels for moving on land, was carrying 47 passengers from the liner Freedom of the Seas when it went off the road in St. Thomas and crashed

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-75772246031720051042009-07-01T15:55:00.005-07:002009-07-01T17:04:10.882-07:00

So here I sit on this sunny Canada Day, outside on my deck, birds tweeting away, cold drink at hand and my lovely little netbook on my lap, blogging away. Unlike my laptop which overheats as soon as I turn it on, this little beauty is as cool as the day is not. I LOVE this thing. I've had mine for a couple of days and don't know how I lived without one before. The possibilities are endless

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-4973470065070681222009-06-30T06:55:00.016-07:002009-07-06T16:29:40.708-07:00

I was going to write a post this morning going on about my new-found love for my netbook. Maybe later. But in the meantime, I thought I'd post the link below first.Shiver Me Timbers!I was approached by Virgin Holidays a few days ago to write a guest article for their blog. They have just posted it so I thought I'd share the link here. It's about one of my favourite shore excursions ever - a

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-91320840940765679382009-06-29T07:15:00.005-07:002009-06-29T07:30:39.840-07:00

It's finally happened...Retirement Cruise Ship Nearing LaunchThis has been discussed often online - the price of staying on a ship indefinitely versus living in a retirement type facility on land. Sounds good in practice although they might want to shake up the itinerary a bit I'm thinking. Posted using ShareThis

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-36074991079405302942009-06-27T11:33:00.045-07:002009-06-27T18:51:30.334-07:00

My husband and I are not really spirit drinkers. But we will always make an exception for a shipboard martini. There's something about them that is just so social.Celebrity in particular is known for its great martini bars and the seriously entertaining bartenders who work them. I have often seen better shows put on by them behind the bar than by entertainers on stage. Apart from the healthy

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-13773382170521546752009-06-26T08:34:00.005-07:002009-06-26T09:19:32.554-07:00

The Associated PressNEW YORK - A cruise ship carrying 848 passengers from Iceland is being detained in New York Harbor after a routine safety inspection detected a small hole in its hull.A U.S. Coast Guard team discovered the damage , plus 16 other minor deficiencies , on the cruise ship Oceanic on Thursday. It found that about a gallon of water per hour was leaking into the vessel.Chief Petty

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-5729454224512142692009-06-23T19:17:00.007-07:002009-06-23T21:01:20.817-07:00

This post is in honour of one of my cats, Katie, who has taken ill over the past couple of days and has occupied most of my thoughts. A couple of vet visits and several hundred dollars later we only have a tentative diagnosis of a hernia. This will likely require surgery and she is not a young cat. And what does this have to do with cruises? Well, the health of my cat, nothing really. But

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-71551307458062896972009-06-22T08:10:00.004-07:002009-06-22T10:10:28.246-07:00

Hmm... I've searched and searched but can't figure out which ship this is. It may be a day-charter type cruise and not one of the big lines. SEATTLE - Two police officers were assaulted by women as they responded to a huge brawl aboard a cruise ship early Sunday on the Seattle waterfront.The officers responded to the scene at about 1:40 a.m. after receiving a 911 call about a large-scale

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-49920281195347001932009-06-21T08:50:00.007-07:002009-06-21T09:53:54.690-07:00

Ship coffee or rather the swill passed off as coffee, is generally agreed by most to be, quite frankly, god-awful. I have to have my morning cup of coffee. If there is none in the house - which rarely happens - or if there is no milk to put in it - which often does happen - I can't start the day. So although I know shipboard coffee, either delivered by room service or served in the dining

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-70990141237798547822009-06-20T07:54:00.010-07:002009-06-20T14:44:46.711-07:00

My life has been taken up the last few days with home renos. Worse, they're not even my home renos. Thus my absence.While on my knees scrubbing grout with a toothbrush, my mind drifts to more pleasant endeavours: lazy days I have spent at sea, both as a passenger and crew. Days in which the only use I have for a toothbrush is brushing my teeth. No worries about blackened grout, discolored

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-84722706810753604222009-06-17T07:43:00.010-07:002009-07-16T09:16:17.967-07:00

As I'm sure many of you do, I keep my ear to the ground when it comes to price drops or adjustments. I usually book in U.S. funds but on a recent cruise I purchased future cruise credits in Canadian funds since the dollar had been at par for some time. A month or two later, of course, the Canadian dollar started dropping leaving me to regret my decision. And by then I had already applied my

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-53807148748514850762009-06-16T10:54:00.008-07:002009-06-16T12:20:42.727-07:00

I used to laugh at my mom who always felt ill at ease unless she had at least three cans of unopened coffee in the house. That was her worse fear: waking up and finding she was out of coffee.I kind of feel the same way about cruises. If I have no upcoming cruises booked and there are no cruise countdowns on my signature I feel panicky. It's like a low blood sugar moment: a bit dizzy,

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-58388152316789257122009-06-15T10:15:00.034-07:002009-06-15T11:47:24.364-07:00

I'm feeling lazy today. It's Monday morning and since I'm self-employed I have the luxury of allowing myself to be easily sidetracked, not really such a good thing financially speaking.So to feel I've halfway accomplished something, I'm putting what little energy I have into posting some pics of a few of my favourite beaches, all of which I've enjoyed while cruising. Most of these were taken in

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-22466470501094858922009-06-13T13:53:00.024-07:002009-06-14T08:29:52.404-07:00

Some cruise simply to relax with a book or stare out to sea all day, hypnotized by the ship's wake. Others may not see much of the day choosing to spend the evening partying and dancing away. Some never see much of the evening. You know the ones: poolside, drink in hand, at nine in the morning.There are those who are up at first light, ship schedule in hand, determined to cram in every

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-85549164547541526362009-06-12T16:06:00.000-07:002009-06-13T09:25:58.609-07:00

How many of you sign up for cruise roll calls on Cruise Critic but then never show up for the meet and greets on board? How many of you never even bother to sign up in the first place?For those who may not know what these are, there are boards or "roll calls" on cruisecritic.com on which the commonality is a future cruise. You pick the line, the ship and then the actual voyage and meet other

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7761434482425374099.post-87246511776986951032009-06-12T13:43:00.000-07:002009-06-13T09:28:43.869-07:00

When I walked down the gangway the last time as a crew member, I swore I would never, ever take a cruise in my life.Well, never say never. Some years later my husband suggested going on a short cruise out of New Orleans, since we were going there on holidays. Despite horrible weather throughout most of the cruise on a ship that was a bit tired and had seen better days, I haven't looked back

koolforkatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04910859245515289028noreply@blogger.com3