We slowed to just a few knots and were going so slowly that it actually looked like we were not moving at all. It was 10 o’clock and the decks were packed with people waiting to see this wondrous event. I have to admit I was a little nervous about promoting the eclipse as last time I had told the guests they would see a stunning meteor shower all they got was cramp in their necks and I got a guest screaming at me because nothing happened.
However, tonight the skies were clear and eventually after a few moments of nothing the eclipse started and as many of you will have seen for yourselves………….it was pretty spectacular. Anyway, the eclipse thingy was a brilliant success and once again I found something to compliment the incomparable voice of Pavarotti who sang Nesun Dorma on the big screen as this unique event slowly took shape.
I had adjusted the show to start 15 minutes late at 10:45 pm instead of 10:30 pm to allow people to enjoy both the sky at night and the entertainment and that seemed to appease everyone. The show went well and the Bedtime Story was very funny thanks to the three characters I choose to perform with me.
One of them was Nick………..proper name ……..Mr. Nickorsaki……..who was so popular following his starring role in the Welcome Aboard Show that when I saw him sitting in the audience again I knew I had to have him in the skit thingy. He speaks no English and as he walked on stage everyone cheered and when I said good evening and put the microphone in front of him he said “I play golf”………….and brought the house down. He was great during the whole show and has emerged as the star of the week.
Here are two more photos of Nick.
It’s strange though how for many people the eclipse was not to be missed and how for many others it didn’t matter and they played bingo instead. There are many strange things that will never be answered on cruise ships. Why for instance do guests always press the elevator button even though there are a dozen other passengers waiting for the elevator who have all pressed the button as well?
Why do guests on every ship on every line in the world feel that they are the first passenger who, when seeing the Captain, say “If you are here, who’s driving the boat?” ………………by the way we must send a note of congratulations to the modern-day ship captain who is not just a brilliant navigator but is also an Oscar winning actor as he pretends he has never heard that question before by laughing hysterically.
In the past this would not have happened and I worked with some Captain’s in the late eighties and early nineties who would answer and, I kid you not, with phrases like “aahh you are so stupid for asking that question. Do you think there is nobody on the bridge?” …………….or……………….some would just sneer and one gentlemen who the crew lovingly called “dog nostrils” due to the fact that when he got angry his nostrils would flare up like a Bulldogs …….would, upon hearing the “Who’s driving the ship” question just turned his back on the guest completely………………These were old school Captains who were so at home on the bridge but they could have done with some help on the social skills front.
Here are today’s Random Photos
TODAY’S LETTERS
Let’s get on with answering some of your questions marked Please Reply …………… here we go.
CAROLYN AND DON………Ahhhh, the booth question. I had someone else write in and mention that they didn’t like booths. I admit that some of the older ships have booths that may be a little cramped however they are being replaced as Evolutions Of Fun are placed onboard. The newer ships still have some booths but they are much roomier even for a leftie. Now you asked if you can request a specific table and although this is not something we usually do you can ask me and I will see what I can do for you. Let me know and until then I hope you enjoy the blog each day. Cheers.
ANON. DUDE……………Following your apology for posting the animation of the vessel of the Carnival Dream which was not the Carnival Dream the order to have you whacked has been lifted. You are now free to come out of hiding safe in the knowledge that you will not be swimming with the fishes………………..where did you get it by the way? Come on……….spill the beans.
BIG ED………………You asked where your evil crew can gather in Cozumel. Maybe we can all have lunch and charter one of the local restaurants………….hundreds of us eating Mexican food…………..the ship’s plumber will not be a happy man.
MISSINGTHESMOKEFREEPARADISEBUTLOOKINGFORWARDTOTHESMOKEFREECARNIVALFANTASYBLOGGERSCRUISE……How interesting that you noticed I was the only one wearing a bib in the restaurant. It’s habit mate. My Father always spills stuff down him and therefore my Mum has always made he and I wear our napkins in the front of our shirts………….this results in clean clothing and no meal time visits to the doghouse. I now need a break as typing in your screen name is a blog in itself. My best to your good lady and see you soon.
CRUISIN BRIAN…………..You asked how many kids will be sailing on your March 23rd Easter cruise and the answer is 90. ………oh sorry………….I forgot an 8…………..that’s 890…………..that’s what the system is showing at the moment for your Carnival Valor. This is normal for an Easter cruise (is it me or is Easter getting earlier each year?) but with our brilliant Camp Carnival program in place it won’t feel like there are that many onboard………….well…………….most of the time. You asked for a Supper Club booking and may I kindly direct you to the link thingy on the right hand side of the blog which will guarantee your reservation and return a confirmation to you. I hope you and the family have a brilliant time and please make sure if you have any other requests or questions you let me know. Have fun on the Carnival Valor.
MARK……………….An interesting question……….when is big too big?……….we are of course talking ships here for those who may have just fainted. Indeed while the Carnival Dream will be Carnival’s largest vessel the new ships you mentioned being built by RCI will be bigger. Now before I continue I remind all reading this that it’s my blog and the disclaimer posted at its peak is a reminder that my opinions may not match those of Carnival Corporation. With this in mind I can now comment on these huge vessels that are being built and these comments are from someone who loves this industry and has spent 20 years in it……………….we have 3,500 guests…………..we sometimes have lines……………they are inevitable………………would I like to be the Cruise Director a ship with 5,000 guests?……………..ummmmmmmmm…….let’s just say I would rather put on a dress, pretend to be a woman and marry a Frenchman called Jean Claude and live on a garlic farm then do that. Cheers Mark and lets see where the future takes us.
JIMMIE……………….A warm welcome to you from the shadows of blog land. It is always interesting how some post regularly (and thank goodness they do) and how some prefer to just read the postings. Anyway, thanks for coming in and sharing your next cruise with us and if indeed you see me walk into Las Palmeras I will look forward to buying you a Margarita or 12. Cheers.
ALEX G………………..Alex you asked what tour I like best in Nassau and I have two choices for you. One building dominates the skyline in Nassau and that’s the Atlantis Hotel…………it is huge and for many cruise ship guests it is the highlight. You cannot just walk in on your own you need to take an organized tour that includes a visit to the stunning Aquarium there. However, my favorite tour has simply anything to do with the Ocean. You know, while Nassau may not be everyone’s favorite destination it certainly has the bluest and cleanest water and most vibrant coral reefs anywhere…………. therefore any snorkel excursion will be memorable. You also asked about the DVD that some people buy at the end of the cruise with my shows on it. It is indeed Fun Ship Videos and they include the Bedtime Story and other performances as well as activities ashore and onboard………….they are great souvenirs. Thanks for the kind words about the photos and I hope you enjoy today’s. Cheers.
DAVE……………here’s another DVD question and this time I am sorry but I have bad news. We do not keep back copies of my shows and therefore the Bedtime Story I performed back in August is no longer available. I am so sorry and I hope that your memories of the show and of your voyage in Europe will keep you going until the next time. My best regards to you and your family.
MICHA BERMAN……………..hello mate. I was speaking about you with a Paul from Cruisemates.com a few days ago. He saw an advance copy of your book and told me all about it. I hope it does really well and indeed ……….the early days of Cozumel when we visited on the Carnival Ecstasy were full of happy memories. I think it’s very brave of you to publish a romantic memory now you are married and I hope you are not in the doghouse over that………….I know I would be. I wish you much success with the book and I am sure many of the blog readers will be ordering their copy today…………..I am. Good luck mate and hope we see each other very soon.
CHERI BOLCHOZ………….Your kind words saying how much you enjoy the blog are a joy to read and you will also be happy to know that your Cruise Director for the November 30 Carnival Freedom cruise will indeed be Todd whom you enjoyed on the Carnival Liberty. I hope you are enjoying your Platinum status and I hope one day we get to cruise together.
GIRLDOC……………….Please look out for a very interesting interview with the Chairman of Fincantieri very soon………..not sure about a monorail…………let’s start with something a bit more practical…………..a Jacuzzi in my cabin perhaps. Thanks as always for your loyal support to the blog.
SUSAN B……………….hi.
KATHIE……………Why, you ask did we take away the topless decks from our ships. Well, first of all I see in your posting you described them as “European Decks,” which I thought was very tasteful……………..well done. Well, the reasons were simple. The deck was mostly being used by our staff members (dancers) and really the space we thought could be better utilized. So, now we have adults only decks on some ships and eventually we will have them on all the vessels. Although topless sunbathing is not allowed they do offer, peace and quiet and you will never hear any one say “Mum…….I want an ice cream” or …………..”Are we there yet?” I hope you understand and remember there are beaches on most Caribbean islands where topless sunbathing is allowed. On the French side of St. Martin it is illegal to wear any clothes! I hope this helps you understand a little better and please let me know if there is anything else I can do for you.
ETRAIN……………The cabin…………well………..let me see if Heidi agrees and we will indeed take a few photos for you……….especially the bathroom. Cheers.
CINDY ………………that was very kind of you.
BIG MIKE…………..Sorry your last comments missed the post but just wanted to say hello mate.
MELODY…………Goodness me Melody, that was quite a posting. Thanks for the tips on local entertainers however I have a line up of acts that will be simply stunning and I know you and your cruise critic group will enjoy the shows big time. Kite flying ………. you know………….we used to do that years ago and I wonder if it is still allowed …………that might indeed be fun…………let me check. We are talking about Captain’s old and new today on the blog and I am not sure that the Carnival Fantasy Captain will permit a photo of you sitting on his knee. However…………..if he does………….I will be sitting on the other one. As the days go along we will highlight more and more information about the bloggers cruise and thank you so much for booking and for spreading the word to innocent strangers over a chocolate martini. Please write soon and thanks for everything.
BIG ED………………….I don’t think 4 days will be enough to recover from what your crew will have done to me………..maybe 4 months!
DWA 76……………Thanks for the links mate and I especially enjoyed reading about what the owners and players of the NBA teams had done to better the community ……… a standing ovation for them. Thanks also for the food link and most of all thanks again for taking the time to write as you always do. Heidi and I send our warmest regards to you.
SUZANNE AND LISA…………….I wish I could have been in Australia with you to see the Queen Victoria. I am sure it was an amazing site. She is a spectacular ship and one I have a desire to sail on myself. Have fun down under and thanks for writing.
KRIS AND KATHLEEN…………..I told our captain that you had overtaken us and he has since challenged the Carnival Liberty to a drag race over 50 miles……………..the winner gets a solid gold plastic trophy. Glad you prefer us to the “flying saucer” vessels we are all proud to hear that. Cheers.
MYRA BUSHNELL…………..Congratulations on booking the trans-Atlantic crossing of the Carnival Splendor…………..it will be a great trip. I promise we will have lots of time together and if you need any inside information on Barcelona and the other ports let me know. See you soon and Heidi sends her best as do I.
MAGGIE TRACY……………..How wonderful that we will actually get to meet soon and I look forward to March 15 very much. In answer to your questions the ship does indeed have a beanbag toss event every day and your kids will be able to defend their championship. The tour you booked is always sold out and very popular so you made a great choice. If you need any other port information come and see me onboard. You asked about Karaoke and here on the Carnival Freedom we hold it in the aft lounge which is called The International and also on the big screen on lido Deck. Hopefully your daughter will again be chosen to be in Carnival Legends. Please leave me a note when you get here and I look forward to meeting you and your family.
That’s all she wrote for today. More tomorrow and again thanks to everyone who wrote in.
Everyone will tell you that their job is the most difficult on a ship………..the chef…………a waiter………..a steward…………the cruise director ………..OK, that’s nonsense…………and they may all be right but there is no more responsible job than that of the Captain. He or she (as you know one line has a lady Captain) has the ultimate responsibility for everything that happens onboard……………theirs is therefore the most challenging job onboard………….bar none.
I have worked with every kind of Captain. Ones who love the social side and ones who are only truly at home on the bridge. I have worked alongside those who are friendly and outgoing and some who are quiet and reserved and one or two who have let the position go to their heads a bit. In each case I respect them 100% and although I may not agree with some of their management styles ultimately they are the ones whose my life depends on and that alone deserves my respect and admiration.
There are very few Captain’s with bigger hearts than Captain Angelo Los. He is one of my oldest friends and I hate the fact that I have not worked alongside him for many years. He was my first captain when I was a Cruise Director on the Carnival in 1990. I used to secretly call him Captain Cartier as he had a Cartier watch, a Cartier ring, a Cartier pen and probably wore Cartier underpants…………..do they make underpants?
Captain Los is the great entertainer and many a Carnival executive and employee has tales of his legendary 7-hour dinners which included the funniest jokes and the occasional magic trick as well. On the night Heidi and I got engaged the Carnival Imagination was in wet dock in Miami and we shared a wonderful dinner with Angelo and his beautiful wife Elizabeth at the Chart House restaurant. We sat overlooking the water and it was indeed a special night……….one that included a dolphin making a surprise appearance.
Angelo………..he insists on being called that rather than Captain…………would give you his last penny, the shirt of his back and then shave all the hair of his body and knit you a blanket if he thought it would help you.
My favorite example of his kindness came back in 1998 when we were together. We were in Cozumel and Angelo had been out for dinner when he came across a small sack lying in the gutter……….something was moving inside it………..he discovered a small puppy which some complete and utter bastardo and dumped. Captain Los is a huge animal lover and knowing that he could never just leave the dog lying in the gutter to die he took it on board breaking a few laws as he did so.
However, he didn’t care……..the welfare of this living thing was too important to worry about red tape. The dog lived onboard for the rest of the cruise while Angelo called the company and various agencies to tell them that he wanted to take care of the animal. He did……..and Cozumel as the dog was called lived for many happy years with them in their beautiful home in Port Dover, Canada. …………….That’s Captain Los……a wonderful example of why our Captains are the best.
Captain Los
There are names that need to be mentioned if for no other reason than to pay my respects to those who have retired from the position of captain whom made my job as Cruise Director all the better……………..I hope I have spelled their names correctly.
CAPTAIN SBISA
CAPTAIN SARTORI
CAPTAIN CALVILLO
CAPTAIN PIOVANO
CAPTAIN CASTAGNINO
CAPTAIN GAVINO
CAPTAIN GALLO (NOW VP OF SOMETHING VERY IMPORTANT FOR CARNIVAL)
CAPTAIN FOSSATI
CAPTAIN CHIARELLA
Very soon we will be celebrating the 36th anniversary of Carnival Cruise Lines and characters like the ones I just mentioned are the backbone of Today’s Carnival. There are many others whom I did not work with who safely navigated thousands of guests around the world and truly were the best in the business…………we salute you all. I thought I might share a story from the old days and about one of my favorite Captain’s who though he shall remain nameless is…………… a Carnival legend.
There are so many stories I could tell about this Captain and I should start by telling you that he is a true man of the sea and a brilliant sailor. Anyway, he has quite a reputation for “speaking his mind” and he certainly did just that when I was a young 25-year-old Cruise Director onboard the Carnival Fantasy.
This is back in 1991 and we were on the bridge together getting ready to leave Miami our homeport. With us was the now Chief Miami Pilot and a good friend of mine Captain John Hernandez whom on the odd occasion we see each other will automatically relive this event with me.
At the time the Fantasy was the newest ship in the world and we always docked next to the trusted old Chandris vessel Brittanis. This is how it went…………………oh, by the way, in order to hide our Captain’s identity I will refer to him as Captain Carnival ……. one more thing…………read his lines in your best Italian accent and move your right arm up and down rapidly while doing so.
CAPTAIN CARNIVAL…………………..you zeee Mr. Pilot we are ready to go
PILOT JOHN HERNANDEZ………….Sorry captain but the Brittanis has already let go of the ropes and is leaving
CAPTAIN CARNIVAL……………you zee Mr. Pilot, I don’t wait for that Greek piece of shi*
Goodnight
Your friends
John and Heidi
Look, friends — there are a few things you should remember before you comment. The space below is for you to post your comments about the post I've just written above. If it is something that's unrelated, please use the Ask John tab above. Now, while I may not be able to reply to your comment below, I do sit in my underpants almost every morning and read everything that is here. So feel free to comment on the comments and then if someone wants to comment on the comment to the comment then go ahead as well. Please be courteous unless the poster is French...........then you can say whatever you want.
Wonderful story about Angelo Los, John. What a kind man. It seems as though the vast majority of people who work for Carnival are special in one way or another.
I’ve watched with wonder as Carnival folks bend over backward to fulfill guests requests, no matter how difficult to accomplish, and still have that patented Carnival smile on their faces.
After hearing, time and time again, about callous, matter-of-fact employees on other cruise lines my appreciation for Carnival continues to soar.
Please say hi to Heidi, Roberto and, of course, Stephanie!!
Cheers!
Greg
PS… any word on the Cruise Director schedule???
John,
I really love the ‘behind the scenes’ crew pictures you’ve been posting. Keep it up!
- Jess
John, you already have a Jacuzzi in your cabin at least that’s what Heidi told us. The only trouble is it never works when she is in it. She also said that when it is working, when you are in it, it does make a lot of strange noise. But I think she was joking when she said she called the plumber to see if a rat had died in the air jet system. I’m sure your cabin has no rats,YET .HA HA HA.
BIG ED
PS. To My Evil Crew add rats to the list.
Ok John:
In your postings you have mentioned being the Cruise Director on several ships back in the late 90′s and early 2000′s that has gotten me to thinking.
Is it possible that we have cruised with you as a CD and did not realize it?
Sadly, I really did not start “paying attention” to such things until the Conquest 2002 (Dec-NYE cruise), when I realized we were going to be spending as much of our lives as possible on a Carnival cruise ship.
So, my question is:
Were you the Cruise Director on any of the following cruises?
Celebration 3-13-98
Tropicale 7-8-99
Fascination 7-15-00
Inspiration 11-18-01
Jubilee 7-27-02
I am thinking we had the wonderful Peter Gibbs on one (of course I can’t remember which one) and I think we had Lenny Halliday, as well.
The rest is just a blur!!!
Just if you happen to remember where you spent the past 10 years of your life, I would love to know if we had cruised with you in the past.
Hi John,
I love all the pictures. Where is Captain Antiono
Marcetti (spelling?) these days. He was Captain on my very first cruise and I just fell in love with him. We also had some British guy who lived in Canada named Dave for our cruise director. Is he still with Carnival?
Take care and remember, every night is Thursday when your stick is smiling!
Julie
John,
I’ve reading you from the beginning and I just want to let you know that I really enjoy the random photos. All the pictures of the various European ports were nice, but the behind-the-scenes snapshots are great. Please keep them up!
Cary
John -
Would it help your carpal tunnel syndrome if I changed my screen name to JustJon?
It seems so bland, but anything to prevent a Workman’s Compensation claim that results in Carnival charging me more for a cruise.
Happy sails
JustJon
What’s up big mate? I think I will need that eye wash after seeing that shredded wheat… wait, on second thought I will probably need something more powerful. I’s just curious, why is it that all (or almost all) captains are Italian? anyway that’s about all the typing I have in me for now, you need to get one of those voice recognizing computers or something, talk to Roberto about it.
_BigMike
John, please respond. I am one of the many regular-readers/seldom-posters of this thingy. I took my daughter and her three kids on their first cruise (my 7th) three or four weeks ago on Liberty (and they had the time of their lives just like I promised) and I am taking my sons/wives/kids (8 people) on their first (all but one who has cruised once) cruise three weeks from now on Freedom. My brother and his wife (veteran cruisers) are joining us and I am thrilled to see that you will still be the CD then. I have been telling them all how lucky we are to cruise with you. Could you possibly please arrange it that the ten of us can sit at one table at the early seating?
It will be a very special time for me since my birthday will be the day we disembark (3/22) and then I go back to work for one week and then retire.
I am terribly sorry that I will miss the bloggers’ cruise again. A group of us had already booked a Panama Canal cruise for the beginning of February and I was going to ask if they would mind changing that one so I could do both, but then I remembered that my cousins (her mum’s sister was married to my dad) from Hatfield, HRTS, are going to join us and I don’t want to complicate things with them. So please set the date for the third bloggers cruise ASAP and I will be there!
John, thanks again for a wonderfully uplifting blog. Where else but on your ship can a person who speaks no English, become a star with the simple phrase “I play golf.” Wonder how the stories will go when he gets home and tells his friends about the cruise. They may all wonder why that phrase is so funny to Americans.
Liked the pics, sure wanted to reach through the monitor and pick up some of those fries….. hhhhmmmmmm, they taste so good.
Thanks for the captain stories, they show the head honcho is really just a person like the rest of us. Although they have a huge responsibility.
Looking forward to seeing you in person on Bloggers v2.
Diane from Texas
Thanks for the random photos. It is fun to see pictures of the crew and areas around the ship which are normally not shown in the cruise brochures.
A few days back you posted your schedule for the next few months in response to a request from a reader. Would it be possible to have a link that would take one directly to your schedule? Captain Schoonderbeek has this feature on his website and it’s quite handy. I mention this because I think there are many of us who would like to sail with you as the CD and might select a cruise based on your availability. It’s just a thought and I hope it wouldn’t be a problem to do this.
John,
Always enjoy the “behind the scenes” photos and the stories of the real people who work for Carnival. I believe time spent on regrets is wasted but I sure do wish I had had an opportunity to work onboard a cruise ship when I was younger.
Greetings John….
I’ve been addicted to your blog “thingamajig” since booking our march 29th cruise on the Freedom. Sorry to hear that you w’ont be onboard as the CD.
Our first cruise was in Feb. 1991 onboard the Fantasy…. it was a 3or 4 day cruise to the Bahamas.
Since you w’ont be onboard Freedom mar. 29th, I’ll take this opportunity (as all the other bloggers agree ) to extend a thank you for your kindness, sensibility, & your wit which you have shared with your cruise guests & humble bloggers
My wife is disappointed also in not getting to meet you… Maybe one day… Keep the humor & laughter coming…
Cheers….. Richard Bursey
Montreal, Canada
Thanks for my morning chuckle John!
I believe that Captain Scala has the best answer to the “who is steering the ship” question during his Q&A session. He pulls a TV remote out of his back pocket.
Kersplott
I’m glad you had clear skies for the eclipse, John. Here in San Jose it was mostly cloudy although I did get to watch the first moment of totality. Very pretty.
Hey, did you know an eclipse save Cristopher Columbus’ life? Here’s an excerpt from a discription of his fourth voyage:
Columbus left for Hispaniola on April 16, heading north. On May 10 he sighted the Cayman Islands, naming them “Las Tortugas” after the numerous sea turtles there. His ships next sustained more damage in a storm off the coast of Cuba. Unable to travel farther, on June 25, 1503, they were beached in St. Ann’s Bay, Jamaica.
For a year Columbus and his men remained stranded on Jamaica. A Spaniard, Diego Mendez, and some natives paddled a canoe to get help from Hispaniola. That island’s governor, Nicolás de Ovando, detested Columbus and obstructed all efforts to rescue him and his men. In the meantime Columbus, in a desperate effort to induce the natives to continue provisioning him and his hungry men, successfully intimidated the natives by correctly predicting a lunar eclipse for February 29, 1504, using the Ephemeris of the German astronomer Regiomontanus. Help finally arrived, no thanks to the governor, on June 29, 1504, and Columbus and his men arrived in Sanlúcar, Spain, on November 7.
Pretty wild, huh? Apparently, this real-life incident is what inspired my namesake, Mark Twain, to put the solar eclipse scene into A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court.
BTW, when we met on the ship you said you wanted to hear where my screen name comes from. I’m afraid it’s the result of over-thinking on my part, but here goes:
I’m sure you know Mark Twain is not his real name, but do you know where it comes from? When Samuel Clemens was a Mississippi riverboat pilot, the river was always shifting about and forming new sandbars, so it was important to constantly check the water depth under the keel. If the man doing this yelled, “Mark twain!” to the pilot, he was saying, I measure (mark) two (twain) fathoms of water, which meant it was safe for the boat to continue. And when Samuel Clemens wanted to reinvent himself as a writer, that’s what he chose as his new name.
My first post to you, John, was about how much I love cruising out of New Orleans because I get 2 hours of river cruising before the ship reaches the Gulf. So, I tried to think of a name that reflected that. Now, Mark Twain could sort of be considered as Mark II, meaning a new version of the original Samuel Clemens, so I thought Mark Twain and a half could mean that I felt that I was a new version with a little teeny tiny bit of the spirit of Mark Twain in me.
I tried too hard, didn’t I? Oh, well!
John,
One quick question. We got a brochure from another cruise line that is offering a cruise in the Mediterrean with an overnight in Istanbul. They are also going to an Egyptian port. Is there anything like that in the future for Carnival? We are fiercely loyal to Carnival. Do you think it might be on the drawing board with the ships in Europe?
Ruth
Hi John/Heidi:
Very enjoyable blog today.
I’m impressed that you can recite (and spell) each captain’s name that you’ve been involved with that has had a meaningful impact on your career. I can barely spell my own last name
Interesting pictures today. Why would you include the ol’ Eye Wash? Yuck!
Hope all is going well and looking forward to catching up to you soon.
Thanks!
David
Hola John!!!!
See you on Monday!!
At what time?
CHECK THIS
my posts are not going thur???????
what am i doing wrong?????
Hello, John!
I’m getting excited about the TA on Splendor now that we’ve booked it. Am looking forward to meeting you and Heidi.
Way back “when” I wrote you that Scott and I “honeymooned” on a Costa cruise that took us to Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca among others. Then, later, we lived for a short time at a beach community called Castelldefels which is near Barcelona. Scott worked for EDS on computer systems for the Barcelona Olympics. We did a lot of exploring then, but I’m sure things have changed greatly since, so excursion suggestions are welcome.
I’ve read so much about your Bedtime Story…how does one manage to be a part of that bit of fun? Should I stand in my chair on the front row wearing my see-through nightie and holding aloft a bottle of bubbly so as to get your attention? (Just kidding, believe me. That sight would clear the lounge in a hurry!)
Your story about Captain Los and the puppy brought tears to my eyes…you may (or may not) remember I truly love dogs; cats, too, but dogs just have this way of looking at you…irresistable. I think it’s so nice of you to list all the captains with whom you’ve sailed, and I’m sure some of those in today’s lineup have tongues sore from frequently being bitten in order to socialize in our PC environment. Ah, the good old days. Captain Carnival’s story says it all.
About the random pictures…I hope the CREW BARBER sign isn’t really on the door to the kitchen, or galley, or whatever it’s called!
I ordered that movie I told you about (The Legend of 1900) and it just arrived today so I’m going to watch it again in a bit.
Hope you and Heidi both are well, and, um, enjoying lots of Thursdays and smiley faced sticks. Maybe by the time we meet you’ll have a new crew member on the way!
My best to you both,
Myra
Hello John
The Big Kahuna Here(from Arnold)
I have solved the question of the elevator button being pressed , the speed of the elevator is directly proportional to the number of times that the passengers presses the button. ….
Interesting photos, esp the Shredded Wheat?
You must have had a special reason for that one. Big Ed’s evil crewe is growing,
Take Care
See you in New Orleans
The Tuckers
Arnold & Elizabeth
John – it was great seeing a picture of Angelo, really do miss him. Is he still with Carnival?
See you in a couple of weeks!
Suzann
John,
First of all the un-named captain sounds like a rather nice guy I would have loved to have been a fly on the wall of his bridge I’m sure he had a few other statements. Still wondering how Alan is doing hope better, and of course how the magic stick project is working. Oh and Goldfinger called he has PA007 tired to a table with a “Laser” aimed at him so you best be rescuing him soon. Things here aren’t to bad weather is awfull, But my cold is getting better thankfully. best to heidi and hopefully we will get a heidi blog soon.
Kevin
John,
I’m with you on the size of the ships… Heavens… A ship with 5000+ passengers… plus crew… that’s just too darn big! (But a friend of mine swears that 2200 – 3000 passengers is too little to suit her tastes… so I’m glad there are choices!!) I love the Fantasy class and Conquest class sized ships!! I’m sure bigger is more eonomical and definitely something to brag about and get publicity… BUT, thank you Carnival for upgrading and refurbishing the Grand Ladies of a more intimate size!
And the Adult’s Only decks… LOVELY!!! Thank you!!! It was a favorite of mine during the Ecstasy voyage. Plus, I love to just sit and stare at the funnel… I love the Farcus Funnel, so unique and wonderful… It’s shape brings an easy smile to my lips… It means cruising in my mind and cruising means Relax and Enjoy life!!!! And the Adults Only deck surrounds the base of the funnel… I was in heaven!!!
The Captains are so wonderful!!! Their personalities and their hospitality… They set the tone for the crew! Your Captain Los, with his wonderful, oversized heart, sounds perfect!!! Thanks for sharing his story with us!!
The eclipse was clouded over here, so I’m glad your passengers had a wonderful show! I watched through our clouds and saw bits and pieces. So wonderful and amazing… The heavens are just glorious to partake… And we see so much more while at sea!
Thanks for your truly amazing blogs… Can’t wait until I get to see you with my own eyes in Feb…
Regards,
Lambie
John: That was such a nice story about the captain and the dog. My daughter found a garbage bag on the side of road two years ago, noticing that it was moving she opened it up and low and behold there were four very small kittens in the bag, around 5 weeks old. She brought them home and we found homes for all but one, which I kept. That cat has turned out to be a very special cat. Chi (his name), is the most loving cat I have ever had. He seems to know he was given a new lease on life. I wish I could figure out how to send a picture, because he is like a guardian for my grandchild who is 4 months old, who lives with us.
It’s nice have daily blogs again, it’s the highlight of life. Thanks
Hello again John,
Is it possible to set up something for our rollcall for the 3/15 sailing in the way of a Cruise Critic group meeting. We have about 77 people on the roll call list. I highly doubt they would all show up but I did mention it on the boards and some do seem interested in meeting. We’ve been chatting for almost 10 months so it would be great to see what we all look like (or maybe not). Just kidding. Also Shirely Cales, you mentioned that you will be on this sailing as well. You should join our roll call too. The more the merrier. Thank you for answering all my questions. My husband thinks we are having an affair. Thanks again. 21 days to go, yahoooooooooo!!!!!!!
Ok, I give up. I have been addicted to reading your blog thingy for a while now and have been quietly laughing and nodding at the mention of so many of my old friends and memories.
I worked for Seachest Associates back in the 80′s (80-87 to be exact) back when Mr Everett Phillips was the head honcho. As I worked on the various ships (Tropicale, Holiday for the most part) my bosses were Natco Nincevic, Ian Smith, Richard Zerbe etc. Roger Blum was a Chief Purser and CD’s of memory were Gary Hunter, Malcom Kennedy, Kenny Day. Angelo Los was a 2nd or 3rd officer at the time, as were Gianni Gallo, Salvatore Rassello, Alex Galotto. I remember Captain Gavino and Sbisa like the fatherly gentlemen that they were (are? – I think I heard Capt Sbisa passed away). I was grinning ear to ear about late port nights at Neptuno’s and the meeting up with friends at the deli at Havensight Mall.
Anyway, I have been trying to read through the blogs waaaay back from the beginning (and I think I’m up to some point in May of last year,) but I finally had to stop in and say hello and thank you. I’ve taken a few cruises since my time on board and I cruised with you once on the Ecstasy and once on the Triumph. All these blog memories are really making me want to take another cruise in a big way!
Its been interesting to see how things have changed as well as growth and plans into the future. I hope when you gather all the CD’s together you take time to congratulate yourselves on just how far you have come in the last 20yrs.
I could go on and on about the times back then, but then I would just be proving what an old fart I really am!!
Thank you so very much for the memories and the smiles of a lifetime so long ago. That was one of the best times of my life with so many great people – Im glad to see the magic is still continuing….keep up the great stories (and I’ll send you a nice old pic of Roger Blum if you like!)
Hi John,
Did you get the picture through Stephine?? I’m just trying to help you get a pay raise..
As to the part of the blog about the evil crew…don’t worry…this time we are all meeting at the same hotel before the cruise so we can warm up before we hit the ship…we will be in prime form!! Hope Alan is well enough to handle us…
Your best of being British thoughts sparked a discussion at home (between me and my British sweetheart) about English food, English tea, etc. and especially about English and Dutch breakfasts. He said “an authentic English breakfast has enough cholesterol in it to stop you in your tracks, in a heartbeat! ” But, it’s oh, so good, especially with real English bacon. Any recommendations on where to find an good, authentic Dutch breakfast in St. Maarten?
Hi John
Thanks again for a superb blog and the awesome pictures and stories. What special memories you must have.
Question: I have just booked myself on the Triumph for June 15th. Can you tell me who the CD will be at that time? I am taking my Mom for her 71st BD and my neice for her Sweet 16. Dunn’s River Falls will never be the same….lol
Take care and give my best to Heidi. See you in Feb on Blogger Cruise V2!!
Sue
Hi John & Heidi:
I just wanted to let you know I posted your response about Cruise Critics meeting location request on the thread. I had some smart a** responses, but the majority were thrilled! I wasn’t sure where we would contact you about this and directed them to this blog. Let me know what the best way to request a meeting place and I will post it on the site!
I love the information on the Captain’s! Having an italian husband, I enjoy the accents (although mine doesn’t have one, darn it!) and they have always been so personable when we met them!
I laughed when you talked about people pushing the elevator button when others were already there and waiting. I had one on one of our many cruises (Carnival of course!) asked me if it would take them to the front of the ship. There is always one in a crowd.
Thanks for the advise on St. Thomas (going to St. John), but we only have one listed available on our shore excursion list. Are some only available on board? We will actually be in St. Thomas on our 20th anniversary and want to do something special! Any suggestions of a nice “romantic” restaurant we could enjoy there also!
I know you have a lot to read so I will close for now!
Till next time!
Susan
Hello John,,,
I have been lurking about reading your blog for quite awhile now and just had to comment on your post for today. Your story’s about the Capt’s you have sailed with warmed my heart. One can really get a feel of how much you love you job.
You spoke of the night you and Heidi got engaged,,was wondering how long you have been married? Did you meet on the ship?
I also want to tell you that seeing how much fun you all had on the 1st blog cruise has made me sign up for #2.
Although I must confess I am a Carnival virgin We have been on several “other” cruiselines.
I’m looking forward to this. We are booked with the Cruismates group.
We have sailed with them b/4 so I know just what kind of wild and crazy time to expect from Kuki and that gang. Now with you and Big Ed’s group,,,well all I can say is LOOK OUT NOLA and Carnival !!!
JoAnne
john great memories Captain Los is a great guy we loved him, my wife still tells the story about him and you and dinner we will keep the rest of story a secret. Being a big lover of dogs we love that story how he saved that dog, I remember him telling me and my wife about it a few years ago and us telling him about our dog (the one that died two days after the blog cruise) how she was found in the park in a bag with 11 other puppies on a 90 deg day. Captain Los and you are the type of people that made Carnival great and also the world.
John
When I saw the title of this edition of your blog thingy, my thoughts were completely unrelated to the homage and tribute to the wonderful Carnival ship captains….
Instead I thought of a pinball game…One that I played quite frequently when I was but a young chap ….(I am showing my age again)
http://www.homearcades.com/images/Cap_Fantastic6.JPG
Popularized by the musical Tommy and performed by Elton John and originally The Who. (Some other famous Brits). Now I have that song in my head….
Ever since I was a young boy
I’ve played the silver ball
From Soho down to Brighton
I must have played them all
.
.
.
How very cool and noble of Captain Los to rescue that poor dog. I likely would have done the same in that situation. It really bothers me that some people can be so cruel to these loveable creatures.
I have seen you refer to your Bedtime Story many times. What is that? Is it on stage? On TV? There certainly wasn’t a Bed Time story on the Freedom when you weren’t there. What did we miss?
Hi John,
What a wonderful story about the Captain and the Puppy. All the stories were wonderful.
Things are starting to get lined up with the Evil Crew…. wheels are rolling, so to speak. And plans are being made. Looks as though we will have a practice run, as so many of us are already booked at the same hotel, before the BC in NOLA.
When are we going to hear from the lovely Heidi? We all miss her!
Hello to Alan and his family. Hope they are all doing well.
Barb
Hi John & Heidi,
Loved the story about Captain Los and the dog, think we have mentioned before that life would be perfect if we could bring our dogs on holiday. Perfect for us, but probably not for a lot of other passengers. Anyway we are always appreciated when we get home. Also loved the stories about the true Brits. How true they were, and don’t we all have our idiosyncracies. We love meeting all the different nationalities on board and one of the things that stands out is the staff with their badges and where they come from. This can create so much conversation and we find out about their lives and backgrounds which is always fascinating and in some instances quite sad. On our last trip on Freedom we were amazed to find that the Australian contingent had probably tripled from the year before (if not more) and were thrilled that we actually got our own Newsletter, this was particularly rewarding as it was getting to the end of our Australian Rules Football Season and you were publishing the results. Also as avid horseracing followers we were kept up with what was happening with the Equine Flu bout. Luckily here in Melbourne our races continued, but they have only just resumed in other States. Love to see all the notes from the regulars and would hope that any of them who ever intend travelling down under will post any questions or requests for advice to us and we will be happy to help if we can.
Regards
Suzanne & Lisa
Wow Big Ed…you are a star in your own right….
Great article from the Houston Chronicle on the Bloggers cruise and John’s thingy…
Also a very interesting tidbit from PA007 about the ship name signage issue on the Splendor. (caps versus the typical lowercase “Carnival” font that is present on the rest of the fleet. I erroneously assumed it was due to the ship originally being a Costa design but… alas it is corporate being persnickety on the font. I do see their point when I look at it. The Triumph looks as if the “p” is pseudo superscripted making the entire “mph” segment look misaligned. Conquest has a very odd capital Q amongst the remaining lowercase and Victory & Glory have just the “y” on the end that is pseudo superscripted. Capitalizing everything makes it look much cleaner.
John, you rock! Thanks for making our cruise so spectacular (2/16 – 2/23). We’re still laughing about some of your comments during the Welcome Aboard Show and other talks.
We’ll be back!
And to think 25 years ago we depended on the Radio Room for communication. Hello to Susan B from Brad J….Food Manager, Carnivale, Festivale, Tropicale, & Holiday. Amazing to catch so many names of crew that remain after all these years…
Best regards to all that catch this post that sailed with Seachest from ’84 – ’90 Ian, Paul, Ellen,……