Sunday, February 17th, 2008...9:29 pm
I love K mart
All was going well and it had been a peaceful night as I sat in the cabin waiting for the Welcome Aboard Show……….however at 8:20pm all that changed as I was propelled into the doghouse quicker than a Cheetah……………..on speed.
Heidi had gone to the Café to get some Tai Tea Crappucino Moca Latte something or other and had been the victim of………………. a drive by blogging.
As she stood ordering her thing two ladies saw her from 20 feet away and, screaming in excitement, ran towards her as though she was giving away bags of $100 bills………………they both hugged her and told her how immensely happy they were both were that they were here and so were Heidi and I……………all was going well……………until…………………one lady started to tell Heidi some …………..ummmmmm………….well……………..different ways ………..to get pregnant………….and they were quite personal.
Now, I know Amy and Louise will be reading this when they get home or even while they are on the ship and please don’t feel bad. Heidi was honoured to meet you, however, I was definitely about to find myself in Poo Bay for discussing our personal life on this here blog.
Anyway, some of the ways that they suggested we…………..ummmmm…………..well…………you know………..had Heidi blushing and I have to say that unless I suddenly turn into a Yoga master there is no way I will be able to do what they suggested. Right now I am as flexible as an iron bar.
So, Heidi returned to the cabin and that was me……….you know where.
It’s now 9:17pm and I have just finished getting ready for the show. You never know what the first night show will bring as it is different each and every week. It is the most important show of the week, however, as it does set the tone and allows me to “sell myself” as the Cruise Director and hopefully make sure that indeed the “Fun does begin.”
Here is the breakdown for this cruise.
GUESTS ONBOARD – 3109
GUESTS UNDER 18 – 239
NON US AND CANADA – 388
MOST REPRESENTED COUNTRY – UK – 56
HERE ARE TODAY’S RANDOM PHOTOS
Antonio, cheif bosun
Asst. waiter Mario from Honduras
Mr. Messina, team leader
John in the real doghouse
Our cabin steward, Sudarmaja, with our laundry
Our cabin steward, Sudarmaja with John’s smelly socks
Today is the day that I usually pay my bills through the wonders of online banking and call my Dad who takes care of my mail. Today, during our call I discovered that I am about to be charged extra tax because…………….I drive an SUV. Yep, that’s right because my car is slightly bigger than those that run on camel urine, I have to pay an extra $200 a year road tax…………and according to the letter I received, if I refuse to pay, the British Government will take me to the Tower of London where I will be publicly flogged by a bearded man in a brown suit.
I already have to pay extra money just to drive into London with something called Congestion Charge and now because I have something that can carry four adults and a baby elephant or two I am punished again. This really put me in a bad mood and I have now decided to sell the SUV and buy a Toyota Yaris which will apparently save the Polar Bears and can go 3000 miles before I need to pull over at the nearest camel and ask it to fill up my tank.
Now, I know this has nothing to do with my job or cruising but you are the only person I can talk to so…………..thanks for listening.
Time to rummage through the mail and answer some of your questions and comments. …………here we go.
Actually, no………this will have to wait until tonight or tomorrow as its nearly Showtime………..see you later.
Here I am, its now 11:45pm and the streets of New York are empty………..they must be. I had 8 people on stage and 6 out of the 8 were from the Big Apple as was most of the audience.
I felt a little flat tonight, I am not sure why………I think the energy level was different to last week ……….saying that I had some great characters including a Japanese guest who spoke little English……….he could say Hello but that was about it. I asked him if he was married he said…………….”yes, I play golf”………………it was very funny.
His name was hard to pronounce so I called him Fred…………..all the guests are now saying “hello Fred”………he says I play golf”………its become the catch phrase of the week.
Here is Fred
Ok, let me answer a few questions before I go to bed. Heidi is already asleep dreaming no doubt of me dressed as a Roman Gladiator.
CRUISIN SUE………………..I see yours was another question that lost its way and never got answered for which I am very sorry. Let me therefore answer it now. You asked that because you booked the Bloggers Cruise using your military discount can you still be included in all the events. The answer is yes mamm…………..without a doubt. Nearer the time I will make sure I take your details and you will be at every one of our activities and shows. Hope this is good news for you and many thanks for all your kind words.
BETTYBOOP1BIGKAHUNA………………Hello Betty. How is your big Kahuna? You asked if Valentines Day is as big in Europe as it is the USA……………….absolutely and we celebrate in exactly the same way as you with men getting mushy and saying stupid things like “I love you” while Hallmark make a fortune selling cards and small bears holding a heart. Actually, the UK celebrates every major holiday as you do, even Halloween is now huge at home. We don’t have Thanksgiving and for some reason we do not celebrate the 4th of July………………I wonder why?
SheriffROSCOE P COLTRANE………………..Actually, when I wrote that blog which included the Bad Boys Theme I did indeed think of you. I can picture you now singing that in your patrol car. We should make a movie, a buddy cop movie about a good old country officer and a British policeman who team up to capture the notorious underworld crime lord Big Ed……………what do you think? Stay safe mate.
LONGIN 2 CRUISE…………………Is there a brig on the ship was the question that you asked and apparently it was a subject of conversation on Cruise Critic as well. It’s one of the more frequently asked questions and the answer is …………………yes. There are 2 brigs. The properly designed padded walled one and my bathroom. The first one is used to lock up naughty people and the second one is used when I have gaseous problems and I am locked inside there until the all clear signal is given.
Seriously though there is a brig on every Carnival ship. The one on here has yet to be used in the ship’s 10 month history and if I think back on my 20 years it is hard to remember a time that they have on any ship……………there has been the odd time and usually it is done for that person’s own personal protection.
I will work on Marcus joining us for the cruise and it sounds like you are going to have a wonderful time……………..unless we decide to put you in the brig. Thanks for the question and thanks for your support of my blog thingy.
GREG BALDASSARI………………Glad you are enjoying the random photos of the crew and you are correct when you answered your own question………..Heidi has indeed been given the role of official blog photo thingy. I will continue to feed your addiction and I hope the blogs continue to make you laugh and keep you in the spirit of cruising.
Cheers mate.MYRA BUSHNELL……………hello Myra. I hope you had a wonderfully romantic Valentines dinner with Scott and thank you for the lovely words. I have never seen the movie you refer to but having read your review I now really want to. Here is a review I found and it sounds wonderful.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120731/There are so few movies set on a cruise ship outside of the disaster movies. I still have never seen the Jack Lemmon movie set on a Holland America ship either. So, thanks Myra and I will add this to my must see list.
TXLADYDI………………Once again an apology for missing your posting and not replying to your comment before. It seems you are one of the many who feel that I should not be the Cruise Director. I happen to agree and as I mentioned yesterday I do think I have found a solution that will please everyone. I look forward to meeting you and the Cruise critic Bloggers crew next year and our very best to you all until then.
Mr. MISSINGTHESMOKEFREEPARADISE……………Thank you for sharing that wonderful story with us all, the tale of the wedding ring and your love for your beautiful wife………….It could so easily become a romance novel. You asked me what can I do to make her love me more…………….that is a tough one. May I suggest you start by promising never to wear anything lime green again ……….ever. Then, come and sail on the Carnival Splendor and as we sail past the White Cliffs of Dover kiss her and renew your love for her and promise that you will never again wish you had married Joan Collins.
Happy to help as always mate.THE BEARS CARL AND BARB……………..As requested I will indeed pass on your best regards to Martina in the Posh Dining Room. She is an outstanding member of our wonderful team. I hope you and the rest of the Bears are well and we both send a big cuddle to you all.
CWR32…………….As always it is wonderful to welcome new people to my blog thingy. I hope you enjoy it as often as you can and Heidi and I look forward to meeting you and the rest of the Cruisemates 2009 Bloggers group next year. Please let me know if you have any questions and see you soon.
SUSAN B………………There are many times in my life where I think “how strange” and here is such a case. I am sitting here typing this blog and on the CD player is the special CD mix you and my evil crew friends made. Each tune is so special except the constant addition of It’s A Small World which although annoying as having your bottom covered in syrup and then having 400 ants poured down the back of your pants still brings a smile to my face as it reminds me of all of you.
Thanks to you, Lance and everyone for the permanent memories of a great week.MIKE L…………….I am sure you must be in shock as we all are. I join you and the bloggers in remembering the families who lost loved ones who met such a tragic end to their young lives at
NIU…………………….we shall remember them.
LISA………………thank you for your first ever posting which included some interesting stories about my wife and her telling me to “get on with it” while I was making an announcement…………..these words are often heard in the bedroom as well.
I understand totally what you mean about the hot weather and I am therefore very excited to hear that you have decided to join us for the Bloggers Cruise in 2009.The Carnival Fantasy will feel like a brand new ship and I promise it will be a cruise you will never forget. See you next year and please keep reading the blog for more news.
PAM M……………..I am so sorry but I leave the day you join the ship……………..I feel so bad I won’t be here for you. Congratulations on your ex being…well………….your ex………………I loved your posting. Have a brilliant cruise in March and wish I was there with you.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER………………..woohoooo from me too.
LINDA THE MOUSE…………….hello Linda. I didn’t receive the card yet but I am sure it will be waiting for me in Miami on Saturday. You asked if I can post the CD schedule and indeed I shall be doing so this week. I really wanted to sell the scrapbooks from the blog but it is taking much more time than I would have liked. When are you sailing on the Carnival Inspiration? Please let me know and I will send a Carnival Freedom book through our internal mail service to the ship for you……………let me know.
Cheers Linda and best from us both.IVANA…………………Your cabin is fantastic and you are at the stern of the vessel. The anchors we use on your itinerary are from the bow only so you will have no anchor noise. Have fun on the Carnival Valor and thanks for reading the blog thingy today.
RUS AND NINA FRANKLIN…………….You are the first people to suggest a title for my book………..if it ever gets published and I really liked it a lot. On the subject of the couple who were having marriage problems I did indeed give it my all to get them back together and in some way I feel guilty that I did not succeed. I appreciate so very much your continuing support and friendship and look forward to your next posting.
MARK TWAIN AND A HALF…………………Good question. Yes, all the inside cabin doors on the Conquest class doors have the vents in the doors however the Fantasy class do not. I am sorry you were disturbed by corridor noise and maybe we need to ask for more respect from guests when they walk down them late at night. Thanks for bringing this to my attention and I will work on an announcement on day one with this in mind. Thanks to you and your better half.
BILL AKA ZYDECOCRUISER………………Hello mate. You asked if Ken the all singing Maitre D will be on the Carnival Splendor and the answer thank goodness is yes………….there is nobody like him.
Have you booked the 09 Bloggers cruise yet mate. It’s always good to type in your name and I hope all is well.
That’s it for now as I have to start getting ready for the Elegant Night events. As always I want to thank all of you whose comments I did not reply to and say a big hello to each and every one of you…………..please keep your postings coming.
This week I will be hosting a new activity. It is based on the show we call Are You Smarter Than A 5 Year Old, I think you have a similar show in the States and probably in Canada too. I am calling it Are You Smarter Than a Camp Carnival Kid………..I think this will be really funny and I will let you know how it goes. If it works then I will send the idea around the fleet.
What else……………..ahhhh yes. I saw your comments about Platinum Card Holders being fed up with receiving the same gift each time……………..you know what,………………you are so correct. One lady has 11 of the Tote bags and this gift needs to be changed ASAP……………I am lucky that so many of the Carnival folks read my blog and I am sure someone is taking action on this………..it’s time.
I wanted to mention to the chap who wrote in and said that we had treated his favorite cruise line very badly by never mentioning it. That cruise line is of course Ocean Village and I am happy to let you know that I contacted its managing Director yesterday and an interview will be forthcoming.
And now a touchy subject…………… It was reported to me by a blogger who is on this week (Cruising Mom) that she and her high school reunion group were recently on a Something Of the Seas ship. Brenda (CruisinMom) told me today that during the cruise they were anchored next to a Carnival Ship (Liberty) in Grand Cayman. As they were leaving the Cruise Director said over the PA system that they were leaving once the K Mart Of The Seas (Liberty) had left……………….I was pretty mad about this. Now, I know that writing this will have thousands of you springing to Carnival’s defense and really there is no need to do so and the only reason I am letting you know is to show how disappointed I am in the Cruise Director………….I may have ” fun” on the blog about other lines but never over the PA system. Still, thinking about it, what’s wrong with K Mart…….it is one of the most trusted names in America and because of its popularity it is able to sell quality goods at reduced prices. I am not going to start a thing here but it did make me a little cross…………….I will however not be drawn into a peeing contest with them……………I am above that.
This blog is a bit…………well…………all over the place so I will finish now and go put on my tuxedo. I feel much better today as I haven’t been able to sleep the last few days. I have no idea why………..I went to bed tired…………..but sleep avoided me like every pretty girl avoided Alan and I…………..they really did………….it was like we were holding a large sign that said “We both have a Tropical Disease and any minute now we are about to have a sneezing attack”……………………Anyway, back to the sleeping thing…….it started on Thursday……………couldn’t sleep………………Friday…………..even worse…………..I tried Tylenol PM and some sleeping tablet thingy……………..nothing…………….and then last night I slept like a baby……………I found the perfect sleep aid…………….the RCI commercial………………I was asleep in seconds
Goodnight
Your friends
John and Heidi
71 Comments
February 17th, 2008 at 11:53 pm
John, so now I’m “the notorious underworld crime lord Big Ed”. So it looks like I’m going to have to have My Evil Crew work extra hard to come up with things even more evil for the 2009 Bloggers Cruise. With the extra time we have to plot our evil and you not being CD we will be able to really get you this time. Just a warning.
Oh yes I forgot during the pre-cruise events you will be in our world.
BIG ED
February 18th, 2008 at 1:11 am
good post john! and sorry about the kmart comment, that was tacky as we say in the south.
we leave friday for the fascination, a back to back and will finally be platinum!!! yay, give me my danged tote bag i say!
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
February 18th, 2008 at 1:34 am
“better than RCI”
….:-)
February 18th, 2008 at 1:45 am
Dear John, (lol)
my parents are going on thier 6th carnival cruise and thier first was the “dottie” cruise back in 95. this is the first time the my parents, brother and I will be cruising together (this being my first). my mother is ecstatic that you will be our CD on the feb 23 sailing of Freedom. She has raved about you and says that no other CD has been as great as you. if there is any thing special that can be done for them, I would greatly appreciate it. thay have been married for 38 “long” years. by long i mean, they do have 2 sons that tend to put a little grey in your hair. anyhow their booking number is 4rm307 room 7342 and any little gesture would greatly appreciated by them. thank you and look forward to meeting you.
rob
February 18th, 2008 at 1:50 am
I sympathize with you regarding the inability to sleep, its nearing midnight and I’m wide awake. At least I have your blog to read. Thanks John
February 18th, 2008 at 2:20 am
John,
Good luck making baby John (John Heald Jr.). I have some very British name suggestions for you: Nigel, Reginald, Nigelina, Regina (Don’t know how British that one was). That’s about the all the British names I know, but I am sure I could think of more. Or the double standard, Nigel Reginald Heald, Reginald Nigel Heald, Regina Nigelina Heald… you get the picture. What do you do with a baby on the ship anyway? I would imagine you would probably have to take a pretty long leave of absence. Good luck with your baby conundrum and God Bless NIU.
_BigMike
February 18th, 2008 at 2:38 am
John,
Loved the pictures!
I must say my heart goes out to Hedi and her experience with the two guests. She will be such a good mother when the time is right; but having everything put on this blog must be hard for her. Why don’t you let Hedi do a blog and tell us her feelings on the matter…or not. Maybe she would like to tell you off on the blog…hint, hint…any way you look at it…it’s time for a Hedi Blog !!!!!!!!!!!!!
February 18th, 2008 at 3:00 am
Hi John,
There is a new Platinum gift and it is quite nice. Thank goodness, because I had already given just about everyone I know one of the Carnival bags.
There may be some distribution issues that need to be worked out.
Here are some pictures of the one I received on Carnival Pride a little over a week ago:
The first 3 pictures on this page show what it is:
http://www.zydecocruiser.com/pride_08/ship/misc.htm
February 18th, 2008 at 4:40 am
Hi John
Thank you for your response. I will keep you posted once we get our cabin assignment and such for the blogger’s cruise. We are so looking forward to that cruise and meeting all the other blogger’s.
I also read the comments about the gifts for the Platinum members. FYI: I just returned from the Pride on Feb 3. Our platinum gift was a nice thermos with a carrying case. A change from the tote bag for sure. I have 27 of the tote bags myself so I was ready for a change. Also, on this past cruise I was rewarded with 25% of the cost of my cruise as an onboard credit for cruising more than 25 times with Carnival. I even got an honorable mention during the past guest party by Jeff Brrrrronson. Some one behind me told me I need to get a life. My response to him was “this is in fact my 43rd Carnival cruise, what better life is there than that?” He snorted at me….lol
Anyways, all is well here in NC and I hope you magic stick produces for you soon. Give my best to Heidi and I can hardly wait to see the two of you again!!
Sue
February 18th, 2008 at 5:06 am
Hi John, Funny you should write in the blog about about having a hard time sleeping. I woke up again after only sleeping a couple of hours. Since I was wide awake I decided to get on my computer for awhile. What a treat I found a new blog. Now I am still awake but I have a big smile on my face.
)
I do have a question I asked a long time ago. Dave and I are doing the Carnival Splendor BTB on 8/30/08 and 9/11/08. I would like to go into London and do a tour that would include the London Eye. I know you will have tours for people getting off and getting on the ship on 9/11. Is there some way we can join one of those tours? That day will also be our 43rd wedding anniversary. It would be great to be in London for part of the day. Any ideas?
Thanks,
Jo and Dave Myerly
February 18th, 2008 at 7:14 am
HI John,
Thanks for clearing up the Ocean Village thing. My family and I were on it in October last year and I have been singing its praises since.
You know what, I think I know why Carnival corp are the best. You have a ‘cruise for every mood’. If you want the absolute lap of luxury you have brands to cover that. If you want a good fun time you have the brands to cover that and if you want to chill out and enjoy the ports in a relaxed atmosphere you can do that as well.
All the bases covered and not a lump of fake rock in sight.
Thanks again
David
P.S. Please pass on my regards to the MD of Ocean Village and tell him how much I am looking forward to my free family cruise for being such a great ambasador for his fine cruise line….lol
P.P.S. Can you tell me when air/cruise packages will be on sail for October 09 for Carnival. We would love to travel with you guys in the med’ and the dates fit exactly the school holidays but it looks like cruise only at the moment.
February 18th, 2008 at 7:20 am
Dear John
How dare they call, if you may recall my Moms ship Carnival Liberty (k mart of the sea)? I have a special place in my heart for Carnival liberty and just won’t hear of her being put down,
Joking they can say what they want, there just jealous.
By the way John what’s the process to get married
on a Carnival Cruise?
Jeanne and I have been together now for 5 year.
She calls me her none husband and I call her my none wife.
I have thought it might be wonderful to get hitched on a Carnival Cruise.
Our favorite memories have been on Carnival.
Regards
Ray Czenszak
February 18th, 2008 at 7:52 am
Hi John, I thought I’d send my little e-mail again as it’s obviously been lost in the large amount you receive. You mentioned that other cruise ships were being fitted with the big screens that are on several of them now. I was wondering if you could find out when the Triumph would be fitted as we sail on her August 24th and I am keeping my fingers crossed she’ll have her big screen by then. I’m glad you’ve started sleeping again and hope you get lot’s of rest. Give our regards to that wonderful wife of yours. Thanks in advance of your finding out the answer to my question.
February 18th, 2008 at 8:19 am
Hi John! We just recently discovered your wonderful blog, and will be joining you on the Cruise Critics Bayou Bloggers cruise in February. I’ve never been to New Orleans and I’m very excited about cruising from there. We usually cruise out of Galveston, which is a 6 hour drive. We’re hoping that Carnival does away with the “booth type” tables in the dining room……they make it very uncomfortable for the person in the middle. I’m hoping that will be one of the changes when Fantasy goes into dry dock. Well, until we meet next February……keep writing….you are wonderful!
February 18th, 2008 at 8:51 am
Hi John,
Please!!!!!!!!!! Don’t put me in the brig. I’m just a harmless little ol’ lady.
Thanks for trying to get Marcus for the cruise. That would be fantastic!
February 18th, 2008 at 8:51 am
John,
You’re great as always!!! WONDERFUL!!!
I didn’t get to see the Brig on my last cruise… or any, for that matter, thank heavens!!! But Capt. Scala spoke about it during Q&A… He assured us there is one and assured us it can be put to use when needed… His Q&As are a highlight of the trip! More Captains should do these!!!
Smarter than a Camp Carnival Kid… I think you’ll have many embarassed folks… Kids are learning faster than we did… Of course, it will be be OUTSTANDING!!! Folks love these shows…
KMart… you know, there are some regions who don’t have KMarts anymore… But I’m proud of you for being the bigger man!! And no, not of size, but of character!!!! The better man, the BETTER man!!!
Regards and Thanks,
Lambie
February 18th, 2008 at 8:55 am
Hola John!!!!! in one week we are going to see you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We are all very excited.
Kmart of the Seas?????? Que atrevido!! Ignorants… They dont know what they are missing. The inmense majority of people that say things about Carnival you ask them if they have been on a Carnival ship they say no.The #$%%^%$ of the Seas that was with the Liberty was the one with the same name as your ship?? I like to know that.I have been in both the last time with a month difference( as you know) and excuse me.. Your ship is way better in everything. My Freedom cruise was perfect in every way. Its going to bring great memories being inside the ship again ahhhhh!!
Nanni
February 18th, 2008 at 9:46 am
Dear John,
Hearing about and then seeing the pictures of the shows makes me miss the BC. It was such fun. Being new to the blog..I must ask..do the CD’s have a cabin down below with the crew or do you get a nice guest cabin?
I have driven with my parents on I95 and it is scaaarrrryyyyy. My mom learned to drive on the highways of Miami…it is where my grandparents lived for most of there lives and where mom spent much of her childhood. Still to this day…she makes dad drive as soon as we get to Miami.
Have a great week and hugs to Heidi.
AJ
February 18th, 2008 at 9:54 am
K Mart of the sea indeed! We love the Liberty and have been on her four times. We’re the couple who talked with you on the Imagination regarding our 51st anniversity and our trips on the Liberty. You mentioned on the blog that you had forgotten our names (surely understandable considering how many people you meet.) We’re Larry and Jeri Green and we love all the Carnival ships. At this time we have only ? three cruises scheduled but hope for more. Our next trip is with our family on the Legend in May and we can all hardly wait.
Carnival is the best so continue to be the best CD on the best cruise line.
February 18th, 2008 at 10:05 am
John,
It looks like we’re going to miss you for this year’s April 05th sailing of Carnival Freedom. We were really looking forward to sailing with you again and the chance to do so was well worth cancelling our K-Mart of the Seas booking. ;D Based on Splendor’s itineraries next Spring it looks like we’ll be missing you on that sailing as well.
I am hoping we’ll be able to sail with you on Carnival Dream in Spring 2010 and I do have some questions about Carnival Dream. As you may recall, my sons really enjoyed our cruise with you on Carnival Liberty and after I showed them the video of Carnival Dream that’s currently circulating on the internet, they are VERY excited to sail on that ship and hopefully with you on that ship. Can you share some insight with us about what features and amenities that Carnival Dream will have in common with the video? It would be an awesome ship as depicted in the video and would easily overshadow any K-Mart of the Seas ship regardless of size.
Thank you for continuing to share your experiences and insights about your life and about Carnival Cruise Line. With the recent departure of a former ‘voice of Carnival’ you are now the only voice that remains.
Would you happen to know who the CD for April 5th sailing of Carnival Freedom would be? We also are booked on back to back sailings of Carnival Liberty on June 14th and 21st of this year and if you’d happen to know who the CD would be then we’d appreciate that info as well.
Sorry for all the questions, but you are the man with all of the answers so… ;D
Regards,
Paul
February 18th, 2008 at 10:09 am
John,
As I have told my granddaughter on several occasions, if someone makes an unkind remark about you, it is because they are jealous. I really feel Carnival offers a far superior cruise to any Something of the Seas. My husband and I have tried that cruise line and personally, I do not like being herded through embarkation. I recall the last time we sailed with them, one of the grandchildren was quite small. We had a lot of “stuff” that most people did not have including but not restricted to a stroller, a pack and play, and jars of baby food which could not be sent through checked baggage for fear of breakage. We were informed as we tried to move all the baby stuff as well as our own, that we needed to hurry.
A friend of mine was on one of their holiday cruises a year ago. Her daughter left her game boy in a lounge where they had to wait for their luggage tag to be called. They were cutting it close anyway and even though they explained they had an early flight, nothing was done to help them.
When they finally got off, the daughter realized her game boy was still on the table in the lounge. They asked security if someone could please radio for it to be brought down to the pier. The answer was no. “They had to get ready for the next group of guests.” who would no doubt be handing over their credit cards to be swiped for charges during the week. This group had already closed out their accounts……so basically, they did not care! Just get off the ship so we can get ready for the next group of passengers!
John, I realize it is difficult to get everything ready for the next group to board, but gosh, they tell us we have to be out of our cabins and carry on stuff has to be taken with us to breakfast. It would not have hurt the other cruise line to go back and retrieve the game boy. That mother was not happy and “Something of the Seas” lost three valued customers!
Okay, I have some questions about the SPLENDOR. I did all caps because I wanted you to know this is important! You mentioned in a comment last week that the christening would take place in Dover. Will it take place on July 13th which is our sail date? Any idea what time it may take place? Will passengers be transported from their London hotels in time to get there for the christening? This is truly a big event for us, John.
Never in our wildest dreams did we ever think we would be on an inagural cruise. I do not want to miss the event.
How far is it from London to Dover? I am assuming the cruise line will have hotels lined up and we can purchase transfers from the hotel to the ship like they had in Italy last summer. Okay, enough of my questions. I called my husband and told him you were heading to the Baltic on April 3.
That, by the way, will be our daughter’s twenty-seventh birthday. I told him you would be sending pictures from the ports to give people a chance to start thinking about what they wanted to do.
Thank you so much for this “blog thingy” which keeps me going and helps me realize each day is one day closer to the Splendor!
Ruth
February 18th, 2008 at 10:17 am
Hello Mate,
Long time no write. I hope Alan is recovering quite well.
I had a thought about the 11 tote bag lady. Would it possible to offer your Platinum guests a menu of free gifts from which to choose? Items could be the tote bag, calendar and other items of similar per unit cost to Carnival. Then the guest could mark the menu and leave it in their stateroom and the item would automagically appear later in the cruise. Of course, a statement would have to be written that stores could run low and all that could be left would be the tote bag, but at least then the guests could have a choice.
You might have guests that love their totebags even for the eleventh time.
Best…
February 18th, 2008 at 10:33 am
I know that you are in the Carribean, but I have some questions about the shore excursions on the Splendor – Northern European cruise.
Heidi – I bet you can tell us where to go in the Amsterdam port. I have been there before, but my sister hasn’t. She wants to see “Windmills and tulips” – I told her it was the wrong season for tulips, but windmills are there year round! So, what would you suggest?
Also, are we close to the cities in Helsinki, Tallin, and Copenhagen? Can we walk from the ship to town easily? Or are those ports like much of the European cruises where we port a few miles (or an hour) from the main city? I know we are a ways from Berlin (3 hours one way?)
I have several questions about the ports, but I’ll wait for the rest in another blog.
Thanks for your help! My sister and I trust your opinions on the ports.
February 18th, 2008 at 10:36 am
Hello John and Heidi
K Mart of the seas wow how can anyone say that,we all know what Carnival is and will be, give me that cruise directors name
Will see you on Saturday, we will be celebrating our 40th anniversery on Sunday and
will be renewing our vows on the Freedom.
Love the pics you have been posting and glad to hear Alan is getting stronger.
Papanh
February 18th, 2008 at 10:41 am
just in,,,,rccl new flag ship is named
BIDAY OF THE SEAS
February 18th, 2008 at 10:52 am
The Platinums are now receiving a new gift. (We got 6 of them on our Imagination B2B). They are “Platinum” thermos bottles in a nice carrying case. Of course not real Platinum since that is $2,000 an ounce now. I gave one to Robin in NY and she used it at Half Moon Cay and she said it worked VERY WELL!!
February 18th, 2008 at 10:55 am
John,
You had me laughing in front of my computer.
I agree with you, those RCI commercials are definately a way to induce sleep. I can not think of anything more BORING!!!!!!
Ruth
February 18th, 2008 at 11:34 am
John, my friend!
Did I note a new buzz word… Elegant Night events v. Formal Night? Is there change afoot here? C’mon, spill the beans!!!
Poor Heidi… I’m amazed that these two overly enthusiastic ladies would be bold enough to offer such personal… uuhhh… input (no pun intended…
) But, on second thought we do all feel like family here so I guess it’s not really that odd…
The comment that CruisinMom told you about seems to be more common that you might think. Barely a week goes by on Cruise Critic without someone mentioning that a cruise director on the Whatever of the Seas made some sort of remark about Carnival being second rate or a bargain basement cruise line. Of course, the faithful always come to the defense of our chosen line. It just seems remarkably tacky of a person in a position like that to bad mouth another cruise line. I’ve never heard comments like these aboard a Carnival vessel.
Good sir, is the 2008 cruise director schedule available??? I’m sure I’m not the only one who would love to see who will be on what ship.
Thanks so much. Keep up the wonderful work and please try to stay out of the dog house for at least 48 hours!!
Best regards to the extremely popular Heidi, the Famous Roberto and the ever so industrious Stephanie!!!
Cheers!!
Greg
February 18th, 2008 at 11:41 am
Good Morning John and Heidi,
Well I was wondering how long it would take for you to land it “Doggy Poo Poo” land for writing on the blog your family decision! No long obviously. LOL
PLEASE REPLY
On your last Blog you mentioned about coming in early to New Orleans for the Bloggers Cruise and doing charity work. Plus other events for that time period. You can count Jack and I in. I do have one question…what about the people going on the Bloggers Cruise who have young children with them?? Our family is coming and the youngest will be 2 1/2yrs and the oldest will be 16. I’m sure the 16, 12 and 10 year old will love to be involved in some way and the youngest will be with Mom or Dad. But there will be parents that would love to help but have children too young to be involved. Just wondering
Hope you’re out of the dog house soon, take care
Joan
PS The East beat the West in the All Star game. Woo Hoo! That included D-Wade, Billups, Hamilton and Wallace. Great All Star weekend!
February 18th, 2008 at 11:52 am
Hi John,
Hope you’re finally going to be able to get some sleep soon.
I just saw video of the proposed Carnival Dream. Have you seen it and is any of it accurate? Will there really be a monorail on it? It looks like a really far out ship and I’m anxious to book it. The video shows a lot of aft facing cabins and that will be good since a lot of people, including us, like them.
There is a topic that comes up frequently on cruise critic and I would like your thoughts on it. It concerns whether or not to take your passport off the ship with you. Some people always leave it in the safe and some take it with them. We have a definite feeling about what we do and don’t plan on changing but I would like to know what you do when you leave the ship.
We’ve e-mailed Ken Byrne a couple of times since the Freedom this summer and we’re looking forward to seeing him again. You should do an interview with him since he is such a popular person.
Have a great day and we’ll talk soon.
p.s. When you see Nanette tell her we said Hi.
George and Linda
February 18th, 2008 at 12:01 pm
Hi John.
Don’t sell your SUV… just use a loophole in the law.
If you register your SUV as a “minicab” (it will cost you $55 a year) it will, as public transport, become exempt from the congestion charge. You don’t need to actually work as a cabbie… just do the paperwork!
At least, that’s what Jeremy Clarkson said on “Top Gear”…….
February 18th, 2008 at 12:15 pm
Our family just wanted to say thanks for a great time last week! Didn’t get to meet you face to face, but did see Heidi our last morning and talked briefly with her. Got home and read your blog and wanted to let you know that we didn’t even hear the alarm that went off. Our cabin was on Lido deck.
Thanks again for a wonderful time. We laughed so much at the bedtime story and Dick Little!
We loved our thank you gifts!
Hope you and Heidi are enjoying your treats!
February 18th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
No celebration of 4th of July? Wow, you Brits really know how to hold a grudge! Come on, John, can’t you just see it now…American flags flying from the Tower of London and Big Ben, fireworks in the evening skies and the London Symphony playing The Star Spangled Banner?! And Thanksgiving? I should think it would go without saying your countrymen ought still give thanks daily to be rid of all us trouble makers. And, anyway, John, you and Heidi have hung around with us colonists so long you’re practically natives.
You may already know this, but there are quite a few British nationals living, working and owning businesses in the Orlando, Florida area. There are at least two “pubs” near my home and they fly the “home” colours (“spelt” for your edification). Also, many own vacation rental homes…catering mostly, I assume, to the Disneyphiles from across the pond. Of course, there are massive numbers of people from LOTS of countries in this area, and I suppose Disney has been the “draw” (is that a pun?) for many of them. Everytime I visit my local Wal-Mart I hear French, German, Russian, of course the ubiquitous Spanish, and… veddy, veddy British English. Everytime!!! Kind of like being on a cruise ship, n’est pas?
I believe the TV show you mentioned is called “Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader?” here. Everyone’s favorite redneck, Jeff Foxworthy, is the host. I fear I would not survive long on such a program. I have “selective memory” and it doesn’t usually include the things I learned in fifth grade. Your show will be a great success. I look forward to seeing it someday.
I love your tax story! We Floridians recently voted to increase the amount of our (state -wide)homestead exemption…the amount of our home’s value not taxable…because a majority of “us” believed it would save “us” money. Others of “US,” however, fear it will result in additional (local) taxes to make up the shortfall in revenue for schools, police and fire services, etc. I guess we’ll find who’s right soon enough. (Scott and I cancelled each other’s vote on this one.) So, we have our “taxation WITH representation,” but sometimes you gotta wonder who really benefits.
I’m glad you’re going to check out “The Legend of 1900.” I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.
Pleasant Dreams (i.e., I hope you sleep well)…and you also, Heidi,
Myra
February 18th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
To George and Linda:
Hi!!! I have never forgotten you and the many times we saw each other in our wonderful cruise.I hope one day we meet again.
February 18th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
Hi, again!
I forgot to thank you, John, for telling me about the other group…the organists. I appreciate your reply and the effort Carnival puts forth to accommodate guests…five organs! Would love to have heard the concert.
Thanks once more,
Myra
February 18th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
Carnival offers an exceptional product and possesses a fiercely loyal and expanding customer base …one which RCI envies.
If I can help it…… I shall never sail on any Pretentious of the Seas.
February 18th, 2008 at 2:07 pm
John,
I have seen several comments re: Carnival Dream. Where are people getting information?
I would love to take a look at what they are seeing.
Ruth
February 18th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
It is clear that after looking at the Liberty all day the “Whatever Of The Seas” had developed a severe case of “Funnel Envy”.
p.s.
I saved my own marrige. Promised my far superior other half that we would be on the Fantasy for the Blog2NOLA Cruise with Kuki and all the CruiseMates. See you then!!
February 18th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
Hey John, Just wanted to say hey. We have been on 4 Cruises since being on yours and really to miss your humor. We hope all is well with you and Heidi.
Take Care, Stud Muffin
February 18th, 2008 at 4:02 pm
John,
I to am wondering about the pre BC events for the community. It would be so wonderfule to give back and a great lesson for the kids as well but alas AJ will be 15 when we sail and I question if he will be able to participate. Please get some info on this for those with kids so we can plan accordingly.
Thanks John….please say hi to Heidi for us… and to Stephanie and Roberto….HELLO!!
Stephanie and Paul
February 18th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
The 2008 Bloggers cruise was all and more than we expected. To you and Heidi I say “Thanks for the Memories,” and of course thanks to all our fellow bloggers for the extra touches that made it so enjoyable.
We are now preparing for our next cruise. We will sail on April 1, from Los Angeles to Hawaii on the Diamond Princess on a 15 day cruise. Our cruise includes 4 days at sea going and coming home. How can I find out what the average temperatures are on the sea days? Do you have someone I can contact to get this information? It would be a big help when I start to pack.
We will not be able to do the 2009 Bloggers cruise out of New Orleans. How about another one on the new Splendor when it comes over? Or Alaska or a New England/Canada cruise. After all, more can be better.
Maxine
February 18th, 2008 at 4:20 pm
(No reply needed)
Hi John,
I’m sorry you’re in the Canine Condo once again. When you told us about the magic stick, I wondered how Heidi would feel about it. I’m sure all us bloggers are rooting for Heidi to “catch”, but apparently some of us are rooting a tiny bit too hard.
Thanks so much for replying to my question about the vent in the door. Actually, I’m not sure making an announcement about it will help all that much. The people I heard in the corridor weren’t speaking particularly loudly, it’s just that those doors do nothing to reduce the sound at all. Frankly, I just wanted the issue discussed in the blog because I am hoping the Carnival high muckety-mucks will read about it, and when it is time for the next class of ships to be designed and some shipyard bozo suggests they can save on ductwork by cutting big ol’ holes in guests’ doors, the Carnival people will realize what a dumb idea it is!
There, that’s off my chest now and I feel much better.
My best to you and Heidi, and (spoken very softly and discreetly), “Go, magic stick! Rah rah rah!”
February 18th, 2008 at 4:30 pm
Carnival Liberty !
We had a wonderful time onboard the Liberty ! That’s the beautiful ship, we sailed down the Grand Canal in Venice on with you and Heidi in Aug. ‘06 !
A big ##**- #** to the “Something of The Sea’s” Cruise Director !!! Hope he can read!!
Kathy and Paul
February 18th, 2008 at 4:39 pm
John,
Good luck with baby John mate. Yes, we will remember all of those lost and injured at Northern.
_BigMike
February 18th, 2008 at 5:26 pm
Hello John,
Do you suppose the CD on the ### of the seas is just jealous and wishing he could be a CD on such a fine ship as a Carnival Ship?
I was glad to read that you are enjoying your music mix CD’s. Susan and Lance worked very hard on them and of course we all had a “little”, just a “SMALL (WORLD)” to say about what went on them… LOL The Bloggers Cruise was so much fun. Carl and I are planning on being in New Orleans a day or two a head of time as well. So, count us in on anything you may plan for the Bloggers. We are looking forward to it.
John you asked me one time if Bears hibernate in the winter…. well, I am going to send you a photo, so you can see why, we hibernate in the winter!
Hello to Heidi and our best to Alan and your Mum and Dad. Haven’t seen a good recipe from Mum for awhile. Do you think she might have a good one to share in the near future?
Barb – the Polar Bear Princess of the frozen tundra!
February 18th, 2008 at 5:45 pm
Hi John and Heidi!
Just wanted to let you know that last month on the Miracle we too received the Platinum thermos in place of the tote bag. It was very nice.
As far as the K-Mart comment, I have to agree with ScurvyDog that they have “funnel envy”. It does indeed get real old sometimes on CruiseCritic when everyone takes potshots at Carnival. We’ve sailed most of the other lines, and keep coming back to Carnival.
I do have a pic to send you of me wearing my Blog Thingy t-shirt on the Miracle. Even though we couldn’t be with you guys on the Blogger’s Cruise, we were spreading the love on the Miracle! Take care!
February 18th, 2008 at 5:56 pm
PRESS RELEASE: Feb 18, 2008
Tho Honorable Judge Bubba Jones, Superior Court Judge (and the Sheriff’s uncle), of Hazzard County, Georgia has issued an arrest warrant for BIG ED.
The warrant stated something about BIG ED, a goat, a cow, Funship Freddy, and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. Funship Freddy is listed as a victim in the warrant.
BIG ED was indicited by a Hazzard County grand jury this morning. Hazzard County District Attorney Barney Jones (the Sheriff’s cousin), could not be reached for comment.
The arrest warrant was delivered this afternoon to SHERIFF ROSCO P. COLTRANE (and the Judge’s nephew), to be served.
Reached for comment. SHERIFF COLTRANE said, “BIG ED, what you gonna do…..we’re coming for you!”
SIR JOHN HEALD, the British counsel general, in Atlanta, said the British government would release a statement once it reviewed the indictment.
If anyone sees or knows the whereabouts of BIG ED, call 7777 immediately.
February 18th, 2008 at 6:23 pm
John,
I have a hint about how to have a baby…relax, stop trying, and go on a cruise….LOL…I am a big help!!
February 18th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
Hi John,
It’s been so nice having your daily (or more) blogs again. Even though it’s not quite exactly like being on the ship with you, it’s the next best thing. I’m still able to get hearty laughs from your stories and adventures.
George and I are booked on the 2009 Blogger’s cruise. We will be flying into New Orleans at least a day or two in advance…not only for any pre-cruise events but also so we don’t have to worry about missing the ship like we did this year. That was quite an experience. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone; however, everyone on the ship was so helpful from the security guards at the Cozumel pier to the security guards on the ship to the purser who helped us w/our Sail and Sign cards and Fun Passes to our room steward who met us in the lobby to help us with our luggage…they all made it as pleasant of an experience as possible considering all we had been through. Thank goodness we bought the trip insurance…let’s just hope getting reimbursed goes as smoothly.
As you may remember, we got off the Freedom and headed to Ft. Lauderdale to sail on the Miracle. I just wanted to tell you that we LOVED the assistant cruise director, Josh “Big Sexy”. He was so much fun. We really enjoyed participating in his activities.
I know I’m behind, but it was good hearing about the other cruise directors. I did recognize several of the names, but other than you, the two that have made the biggest impression on us are Todd and Shawn. I know what Todd is up to these days, but how is Shawn. Is she still doing the Spirit? We hope that we’ll be able to join her again for another Hawaii cruise someday soon…still waiting on Carnival to do a roundtrip Hawaii cruise from LA or somewhere else on the West Coast.
Or, maybe even a 1st time Alaska cruise with her. She was a social host on Graham Seymour’s team on our very first Carnival cruise on our honeymoon and we’ve had the pleasure of cruising w/her twice as a CD. She’s a class act. We really enjoyed Graham too…he was a hoot, but I know he hasn’t been w/Carnival for sometime.
I did want to comment on a subject I saw in your Q&A section…the platinum gifts…We received the thermoses on the Freedom and again on the Miracle the next week. They are very nice, but you only need so many thermoses. We have cruises booked again in November of this year and of course in February of next. I don’t mean to sound ungrateful, but I hope they change it up. I put this on my comment card but will share it with you as well…it would be nice if they had a catalog of sorts where you could select from a variety of platinum gifts ensuring you don’t end up with multiples of any one thing or if there is something you particularly like you could end up w/multiples if you so desire…just a thought.
As always, John, thanks for giving us this forum to share our thoughts and for being you…for making us laugh and cry, and for making our cruises the best vacations ever. I know that when we’re cruising on ships with other CDs a lot of the fun we’re having in some way has been inspired by you!
The Kilmartins
February 18th, 2008 at 7:08 pm
John,
I wrote to you about a month or so ago and you didn’t respond yet. I basically asked if any conclusions have come up regarding the replacing of Britney Spears in the Carnival Legends show with anyone? She is by no means a musical legend and I can think of many other music stars out there that would deserve to be represented on the ship instead of her.
Wouldn’t it be funny if you put Gene Simmons as a legend then whoever the winner is better have a long enough tongue to pull it off, LOL.
-Marc G
February 18th, 2008 at 7:29 pm
Hi John – We will be traveling on the Freedom 03/22/08-03/29/08. We hope that you will still be on her while we’re traveling. You were the cruise director on our very first cruise – our honeymoon. The Fantasy in April, 1990 – so this will be our 18th anniversary. Please say you’ll be there. We always remember you when we’re cruising and had hoped we’d see you again. This will be our 11th cruise – and our sons’ 5th.
February 18th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
[...] I love K mart All was going well and it had been a peaceful night as I sat in the cabin waiting for the Welcome Aboard […] [...]
February 18th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
Hi John: Just got home from dinner at Olive Garden and decided to check out y0ur blog again. Mr. RCCL is jealous of you and Carnival! He is a has been! That is why he is CD on a RCCL ship! Carnival would NEVER hire him! He is just plain jealous! I had a wonderful 60th birthday today, and I realized something, I feel just the same today as I did yesterday when I was 59! HA! HA! Life is wonderful! Especially when we are cruising. Just 62 more days till our cruise on 4/20 , can’t wait to finally see the Liberty, everyone says how beautiful it is! Your forever friends, Mike & Linda
February 18th, 2008 at 8:27 pm
K – Mart of the Seas, huh?
This comment from a line that has given us the great ship – Chicken of the Seas and its Cruise Director Charlie.
February 18th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
Hey John
RCCL has a contest going on right now to name their two new 200,000+ ton ships. I think the first one of the new ships should be named Carnival of the Seas. Maybe the second one should be named Festivale of the Seas, Tropicale of the Seas, or Jubilee of the Seas in honor of some old Carnival favorites.
February 18th, 2008 at 9:36 pm
How do I get my question posted??
February 18th, 2008 at 9:49 pm
Hi John & Heidi:
We have nick named those sea ships the “Snobs of the seas”! I have several friends that travel SOS and they said the staff are a bunch of snobs so I thought it was very fitting. BTW, I have turned a few of them into CCL fans! If Carnival is considered the Kmart cruiseline, well I guess SOS are the Sam’s club of the seas since they seem to deal more in bulk than substance! I will take my substance anytime!
Sorry to hear about Heidi’s run in with the helpful women. Everyone has ideas about conceiving, but what works for some doesn’t for others. We will just keep you in our prayers.
There has been a lot of talk on CC about a Platinum lounge but quite frankly, I think it would be a waste. If they want to add another benefit, a “Platinum Party” would be fantastic. I personally would love knowing how many of us on board are actually platinum! I can’t wait for my benefits in September!
Will you be doing a review of the Valor since it just came out of dry dock with pictures of the upgrades including the new spa balconies.
I hope you have some wonderful nights of sound sleep. Maybe your internal clock had to readjust to the time change since you returning from europe. It may have just taken a little time for it to all catch up with you!
Hope you have a wonderful adventure this week doing the western!
Susan
February 18th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
You , know what John that is just……..
disapointing to her that another cruiseline cant be a good sport!
And i recently recieved an e-mail for the royal caribbean new class called GENISES class whick is 230,000 tons.
TO BIG!!!
and i wrote the
Junk of the seas &
Boring of the seas
To get pay back for that.
And honestly the carnival Liberty was my favorite!!!!!!!!!!!!
February 18th, 2008 at 10:36 pm
Hi John,
Just have to comment on RCCL and Carnival. My husband and I have taken 4 RCCL cruises and 6 Carnival cruises. We have 2 more cruises booked on Carnival, one in March and one in October. We chose to stick with Carnival, (and I am not kissing up here), simply because we are treated so well. To be specific: the beds on Carnival are so comfortable and that makes a huge difference. We also like the casino better with the card system. On RCCL if you are playing a slot machine and want to change to another machine you have to cash out buckets of quarters. A pain.. (Not that we cash out much…haha…). We also love the Welcome aboard party and the Past Guest party-free drinks, food and entertainment-who could ask for more? So Carnival has won our allegiance and although it might be fun to watch people bust their buns all day on a surfrider, give us a pina colada poolside and some calypso music and that is our ideal vacation.
February 18th, 2008 at 11:33 pm
Hi John,
I enjoyed your blog again today. I can’t help but smile and wonder if maybe .. just maybe .. the lack of sleep you are experiencing is connected to your newly found information on … ummm … baby making technique?
Still counting the months & days till Feb 2009 and the Blog2NOLA. See you then!
T C
February 18th, 2008 at 11:40 pm
John,
Just to let you know, we received really nice thermoses as our gift from Carnival for being platinum on the blogger’s cruise—not a tote bag. So it appears someone has already done something about changing the platinum gifts. The thermoses are very nice ones, too, and we thank Carnival for them. Thought you would like to know!!!!
Bob and Emily
February 19th, 2008 at 12:31 am
Hi John
just had a quick question after seeing one of the pictures I was wondering if all carnival ships have a brig and if carnival has ever had to lock anyone in the brig?? Anyway look forward to reading the answer and welcome back home to the freedom.
February 19th, 2008 at 12:31 am
How do, John. Just jumping in to say still thoroughly enjoying the site every day, and to ask what’s probably a silly question – with only 28 Saturdays to go (sounds better that way!) ’till we sail from Dover aboard the Splendour we’re getting all our pre-cruise planning done now. My question concerns tuxedo hire onboard – I’d like to hire a tux for the four formal nights (we’re doing a back-to-back) but Carnival’s website says that formal wear cannot be ordered online. Is there any way I can organise this prior to the trip, or should I bring one from home, and can I arrange rental for the full 24 days.
Cheers, and see you in 14 paydays,
Mal
February 19th, 2008 at 6:57 am
John -
Maybe you could start a new game called ‘Are You
Smarter Than an RCCL Cruise Director’.
February 19th, 2008 at 10:35 am
I was looking at the web camera from the bridge this morning and it looked as if there was a bunch of dolphins or ??? Although we have been a lots of cruises, I don’t believe I’ve ever seen dolphins playing in the wake of the ship.
February 19th, 2008 at 11:19 am
Mal and Lex from Western Australia.
Your right you can’t order Formal wear on-line but if you read below there is a direct phone number to order them. On the Carnival web there is also a form to take to your local Tux shop to get your measurements before you call if your not sure of them.
_______
Formal Wear Rentals cannot be ordered Online.
Professional tailor measurements are required.
Please call 1-800-522-7648 to place an order and keep your measurements handy.
Orders are accepted up to and no later than one week prior to sailing date.
Tuxedo prices vary according to port of embarkation. Vests are only available as an upgrade to a tuxedo rental.
______________
I hope this helps.
BIG ED
February 19th, 2008 at 11:35 am
Hi John,
One of my posts seems to still be wasting away in Moderation land, but I posts some pics of the “new” platinum gift.
http://www.zydecocruiser.com/pride_08/ship/misc/IMG_1609.JPG
http://www.zydecocruiser.com/pride_08/ship/misc/IMG_1611.JPG
http://www.zydecocruiser.com/pride_08/ship/misc/IMG_1612.JPG
Also, now that Castor has resigned, when will Carnival start sailing to Cuba? Hint! Hint!
February 19th, 2008 at 11:36 am
uh, make that Castro…
February 19th, 2008 at 3:12 pm
Just discovered you when visiting ccl web-site..
It is so great to read a CD that shares his daily experiences with such a flair..
Continue success-
Ashley
February 19th, 2008 at 3:55 pm
Hi John/Heidi:
Nice pictures today. The steward picture with your sock is a classic.
I guess you didn’t realize when you started the blog how friendly people would be with Heidi sharing info. Maybe going forward you should put “Confidential” or something like that.
Typical of other cruise lines berating the other. Some things never change.
Great hearing from you!
David
February 24th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
Hi John;
My husband Dennis and I were on the Freedom two weeks ago, (Feb 9-17) and had a wonderful time. Tried to catch up to you a couple times to say hello. What a wonderful surprise to find you as our CD again. Our first cruise on the Triumph a few years back you were with us and we had a great time. Your wit and charm WOW.
Also we caught your travelog on Greece and Turkey while on board that week. As we spent our first year of marriage in Yalova, (across the Sea of Maramara) it sure brought back memories.. Thanks again for another memorable week.
May God continue to Bless you and Heidi.
Vickie Poulsen
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