In Russia it was cold, in Tallinn it was freezing but this morning, here in the Dutch countryside it is truly Antarctic………..How can I describe how cold it is?……Well, its -2 degrees but the wind is really strong and that makes it feel even colder. I am wearing my windbreaker and I can assure you its breaking bugger all. How cold is it?……..Well let’s just say that when I went to the bathroom just now it took longer than usual as a certain part of me had decided to return to the cave and hibernate.
It’s a shame it’s so cold because the film I am making for the guests doesn’t show the true beauty of the places we have visited this morning. These include Zaanse Schans which is Windmill country. There are dozens of these beautiful old mills and on tour guests can visit the mills, a traditional cheese factory and farm. Watching the sails of these mills move in the wind is simply awesome and even if the wind had not been as strong as it was today the sails would still have turned due to the Indonesian curry I had for dinner last night.
We have just finished a tour of two gorgeous Dutch fishing villages called Maken and Volendam. They are as Dutch as the windmills and thrive on fishing and tourism. In Maken the residents open their front doors to the tourists and expect visitors just to pop in for a cup of coffee……it is totally unique. The harbour of these two villages is full of fishing boats that jockey for position with the many private sailboats.
Water is a way of life in Holland remembering that it is many meters below sea level. In 1953 the country was devastated by floods from the North Sea which killed hundreds of people. Now the country is protected by huge dykes built to protect the country. It was a massive project especially as Holland is one of the flattest countries in the world.
If I was to take three buckets of sand and put it in a pile I would have created the largest hill in Holland. We are now on our way to Edam where they make…………Phillips TVs……….oh yes……..and cheese.
As I have a few minutes I wanted to ask your permission to pass on my comments on a subject that I have seen doing the rounds on the Cruise Critic and Cruise Mates boards.
This subject is a few days old now but I wanted to add my humble opinion to the subject……remember this is my opinion and not necessarily Carnival Cruise Lines.
The subject I am referring to is the case of the missed port on the Carnival Conquest. If you are not aware of this let me fill you in. The ship was heading for Jamaica when a crewmember was taken seriously ill and the ship had to turn around, rendezvous with United States Coast Guard who collected the crewmember who was immediately taken to hospital to receive life-saving medical treatment.
Unfortunately, the ship was unable to make port the following day due to the detour and, guests were each provided a $25 shipboard credit, which is Carnival’s policy should an unforeseen emergency occur.
Whereas the majority of guests were understanding and enjoyed to the full a relaxing sea day one gentlemen …….scratch that……he certainly was not a gentlemen……so let’s say one man decided to start a petition and demand money for missing a port. This man was eventually disembarked by the ship’s command for reasons we will discuss in a minute.
I want to comment firstly on some of the comments I have read that say that more money should have been given especially because it was a crewmember.
These comments, quite frankly, make me mad. …….and I would like to ask these few people just how much money is a human life worth…….$50?………$100?…….How much?………and to suggest that because it was a crewmember whose life was saved the refund should be higher than if it were a passenger makes me feel sick.
There were some comments that the Captain could have gotten the crewmember off quicker and that they could have dispatched a helicopter from Grand Cayman. Having helped organize many of these rescue operations myself I can tell you that the captain does not decide…….you go where the US Coast Guard tells you to go. The Captain then navigates to the designated rendezvous to meet the helicopter or cutter provided by the brilliant men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard.
Now, the main reason I am taking the time to write all of this here on my raspberry is because of a conversation I had last night with my great friend and the cruise director of the Carnival Conquest Ralph “Wee Jimmy” Valente. He told me that he is still traumatized by the way this one man and a few others treated him and some of the other crew, particularly with the language the man used and the physical posturing — not just toward him but too many members of staff, including females.
I know it’s upsetting to miss a port of call however I simply ask this question. If it was a member of your family whose life was being saved by the ship’s medical staff, the captain and crew and the brave men and women of the Coast Guard……..How would you feel?………..Thankful and grateful that they had saved your life I am sure.
So, thank you to the 3,000 understanding passengers who understood and whose first thought was not for money but for the preservation of human life.
I have a disclaimer on my blog thingy which means the opinions expressed in this blog are mine and mine alone. This means I can say this. Should that guest been disembarked by the ship’s command?………..Yes………..and from what I was told he said and the threats he made I hope he never walks up one of our gangways again…………..and if he does I hope he gets seasick and lockjaw at the same time.
We are off to see the de Keukenhof…..the national flower show………..that’s so me!
Cheers
John and Heidi
PS – I hope someone posts this on CC and CM
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.
Great blog once again… thanks for posting about the Carnival Conquest incident. I have been reading about it on CruiseCritic and am just amazed on what people want from a missed port. Someone always thinks they know best even when they aren’t totally involved in a situation.
I am a huge fan of this blog. I read it every morning and read some of it to my husband so that he understands why I am giggling first thing in the morning. Thanks for your great talent in writing. Keep it coming.
Stefani
Wow John, some people are real jerks! How totally self-centered. I’m sorry to hear that the crew of the Carnival Conquest had to put up with that behaviour (spelt correctly!) and am glad that the “gentleman” was taken off. I don’t understand the obsession with monetary payoffs when the schedule cannot be followed. Obviously Carnival tries to get to scheduled ports, but sometimes real life gets in the way (illness, weather, boat malfunctions, etc.). When this occurs, just as at home, one must roll with it and modify their plans. How is $50 or $100 going to change anything? So take the $25 and go blow it in the casino or go shopping and get on with the fun that can be found aboard the ship….that’s why you are cruising and not everyday is a stopping day anyway! Poor Wee Jimmie and the other crew members….I hope they’ve recovered from the nasty people! We sailed with Ralph at Christmas aboard the Glory and had a grand time! We’ve really been enjoying your trip blogs….the Splendor’s itinerary sounds fabulous! Gloria
John, if I was on that ship I would have tried to lead a movment to donate those $25 credits to the family of that crew member. I bet I would of had more willing to do that then sign that fools petition. He needed the plank not the gangway.
BIG ED
I am glad to read that they disembarked that man for his actions. How dare he. If it had been him that was sick or a family member would he have felt differently, I KNOW he would. He should be put on some kind of list at Carnival NOT to let this man book a cruise on another Carnival ship again! As you said a human life is worth more than a stop in Jamaica! And I LOVE Jamaica, but would never let anyone become sick and not get the attention they need, whether it be a passenger or crew member! Bravo John! I agree with you entirely! What has this world come to? Linda P.S. 2 more days and Carnival Liberty here we come!
Not to worry, John, this blog entry will be linked to at Cruise Critic.
Vacations are wonderful things, that I believe are necessary to mental and physical health as a relief to the stress of daily life. And cruises are, in my opinion, the most wonderful type of vacation. But, somewhere along the line, some people have come to the idea that vacations are supposed to be other-worldly in that everything is to be perfect, and go perfectly (not unlike some people now think about wedding days) and that for that time period the universe is supposed to revolve around them.
Often, this takes the more benign form of statements such as, “It’s my vacation, I paid for it, and no one is going to tell me I can’t wear my bathing suit into the Dining Room if I want to!” (forgive my hyperbole; it’s just a tool to make my point!
) But, sometimes, the attitude is pushed to the extreme, and you wind up with cases such as with “petition man” on the Conquest.
Such people most likely deprive themselves of the very benefits that vacations are meant to supply to us: relaxation and freedom from stress. If they only deprived themselves of it, it would be one thing, but in such cases as this, they manage to make most everyone else miserable at the same time.
I will not say that Carnival, or any company, does everything right all the time (who does?), but they were right in this.
By the way, John, your blogs have really whet my appetite to see places that were never really on my “to-see” list….dreaming of Dutch windmills somehow now seems a rather romantic notion!
Terri
Some people just don’t understand that it isn’t “all about them”, even on vacation. How fun would that cruise have been had the crew member died? I’m guessing the rest of the crew would’ve had a hard time carrying on as normal. The Captain did exactly the right thing in kicking this guy (and I believe his sons from reading the post on CC) off the ship.
John,
I had read some of the posts on the ship missing port due to an ill crew member. I’m appalled than any decent human being would feel that the crew member’s life is worth less than anyone else’s. I can’t even express how wrong that is. There were also reports of the passenger who started the petition and was subsequently disembarked having bullied passengers into signing his petition. Good for the Captain for putting him off.
I’m honestly appalled that it would matter to anyone that it was a Carnival Staff member or a guest! I think it’s horrible that people would think that way. We’re talking about a human life and that’s way more important than seeing another port!
Good Morning John,
Wow I am here and it is not midnight….must be Friday off…oh yes it is…
John, I think you already know this, but by FAR FAR the majority of members at CC and, I am sure CM, APPROVED wholeheartedly of the Captain’s decision!!! It would seem so obvious that the life of that crewmember is paramount, and that Carnival did what it always does, and that is keep the safety of ALL passengers AND crew their top priority!!
Please extend our support to Wee Jimmy and all of the crew who were subjected to this abuse!! Were I a passenger on that sailing I certainly would have said a big THANK YOU to the Captain and the crew for keeping the best interests of all aboard in mind when removing this one psycho from our ship.
Just my .02, BRAVO Captain Marino!!!
Hugs to you and Heidi, and Wee Jimmy, all the crew, and Captain Marino!!!
John I have enjoyed reading your blogs since the trip on the Emerald Princess. I am getting very excited for my first cruise ever on the Conquest leaving on June 8th. I’ve read about this situation on Cruise Reviews chat area and found overwhelming support for the Captain and crew. I completely agree that we put our lives in the hands of the crew and all respect and care is given to us as the passengers and should be given to the crew as well. I look forward to my trip so much and have heard wonderful things about Wee Jimmy, I personally can’t wait to meet him.
John, your words are obviously heartfelt, and come at a time when the cruise industry is under attack from all sides.
While your words are “your opinion,” the fact is that every passenger accepts a contract with Carnival, part of which states under ariticle 7. CARNIVAL’S RIGHT TO INCREASE FARES, CANCEL OR CHANGE VOYAGE:
” The Vessel shall be entitled to leave and enter ports with or without pilots or tugs, to tow and assist other vessels in any circumstances, to return to or enter any port at the Master’s discretion and for any purpose and to deviate in any direction or for any purpose from the direct or usual course, and to omit or change any or all port calls, arrival or departure times, with or without notice, for any reason whatsoever, including but not limited to safety, security, adverse weather, strikes, tides, hostilities, emergency debarkations of Guests or crew, or late air, sea, car or motor coach departures or arrivals, all such deviations being considered as forming part of and included in the proposed voyage. Carnival shall have no liability for any compensation or other damages in such circumstances.”
Fact is, we are cruisers–but we did not just sign on just for a boat ride, we signed on for an adventure. And part of the adventure is meeting the unexpected head-on. If the adventure includes missing a port to save a human life, or to embark passengers from a distressed ship, or to avoid storms, then its PART OF THE ADVENTURE.
Personally, I believe the cruise lines, like the airlines, should have a “no sail” list, which would protect the adventurers from having to put up with this man or any like him. Since he is part of a vocal minority, I don’t think your profits will be affected, and they may in fact go up, as passengers feel better protected.
That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it.
Rus Franklin, amateur adventurer
I am sitting here sick at heart at the actions of that man. The decision to disembark him was, in my mind, absolutely correct. A missed port is one of the chances you take when you sail, no matter what the reason. What an appalling example of incredibly poor human behavior. I hope the crew member is doing well, and how appropriate your comment “what price do you place on a human being”….oh my. Give my regards to CD Valente.
John, I fully agree with you 100%. I wonder what he would have had them do had it been himself that needed to be sent for lifesaving medical treatment????????????????
Carolyn and Don
John, sorry you are in such cold weather today. The residents of Maken sound truly unique, expecting strangers to just walk in and hav-a-cuppa; wish I could meet them. They seem truly gracious, very much the opposite of that @#$!*& traveler on the Conquest.
I’ve read several stories and lots of opinions. My personal opinion is that the Captain did the right thing! And I’m truly sorry the crew had to put up with such outrageous behavior, while trying to stay nice. Wish I could give them all a hug to make it better.
Hugs,
Diane from Texas
John:
It is sad that an individual ( I refuse to even call him a man….because real men don’t act like that) have such little respect for themselves and others.
Thankfully, most people who know the whole story were ready to do more than just “escort” this idiot off the ship. They were ready to have him fed to the fishes!!
Unfortunately, most of the “world” will not know the whole story. They will only know what “the media” (who love to take swats at the mean ole big company) tell them.
For instance, “the world” will not know this individual abused a woman with a special needs son and terrified her son. All I can say is that if that had been me (with DJ) …. there would not have been enough of this jerk left for Carnival to “escort” off the ship. I would have needed the services of Roscoe P. Coltrane to get me out of the brig!
The best thing that we (as cruisers in general … because this could happen on any cruise line )
can do is get the truth out there, whenever we hear an incorrect version of the story.
As for Carnival, I would put this idiot’s name on a “do not cruise list” and his ignorant, arrogant behind would never sail on a Carnival Corporate ship again!
I have never met Wee Jimmy, but please extend to him how proud we are of his actions to protect the crew and passengers onboard from this abuser. The “illness” of the crew member was life threatening. Hopefully she is doing well.
I am on several (about 9 ) different cruise forums and the best response was by http://www.cruise-chat.com
moderator Dave. He said he would not even allow posts from anyone who tried (even in the slightest) to condone what this idiot did.
Here is his direct quote:
“I want to be clear to everyone reading this thread. This forum does not condone anyone challenging the decisions or authority of a ship’s crew. The Master of the ship made a decision and that is the end of it. “Stuff” happens, and these passengers needed to accept it and move on. These passengers chose a different route and paid the consequences for their stupid decision.
We will not be entertaining any discussion which supports the actions taken by these people.”
Go Dave!!!
I hope I get to sail with Wee Jimmy one day so that I can tell him in person how wonderful he is.
I am proud to say that my friend Hennie (Papa Smurf) is currently his ACD. I have not discussed this issue with him ~nor do I intend to~ but I know these passengers were in good hands!!!
Hennie is yet another “cruise son” that I have.
Now that I am off my soapbox…back to things that make life wonderful…like CRUISING!!
Your blogs are really making me want to do some European cruising.
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
(April is Autism Awareness Month)
WOW, I don’t understand some people. A life was saved. Knowing that I personally would have not even cared about the $25. But I work with the public everyday, and you will always have those people that are NEVER happy, no matter what you do for them. If you would have offered $100 I’m sure he would of still not been happy with that. Hopefully someone like that will not cruise with ccl again.
Rob
All Bloggers
My Brother-in-law Jim is now getting Hospice care. I ask that we all say a prayer for him. Our blogger family in here has had great success with prayer in the past maybe we can do it again.
Thank you
Ed Konefe
BIG ED
AMEN John…. Personally you can put me on a ship and I don’t care if I don’t see land for the next 7 days (or however long the cruise is) but you hit the nail on the head….I would certainly give us a Port whether it was another passenger BUT DEFINITELY for a Crew Member. You guys are the reason why we’re Platinum… You guys feel like part of my family. You guys have made me feel welcome over & over again each and every single time I have cruised Carnival… It’s because of the Carnival Crew Members that we keep coming back…. My thoughts are with that Crew Member and I hope they are or will be ok… I’d happily give up more than a missed Island for any one of you guys…. G-d Bless You All and the US Coast Guard…
Cheers
John and Heidi
PS – I hope someone posts this on CC and CM
Read it on Cruise Critic….will make sure its on CruiseMates as well if it already isn’t there…
John, I agree with your opinion 100%………you can not put a $$$$$ value on anyones life.
Kersplott
“PS – I hope someone posts this on CC and CM”
Ask and ye shall receive:
http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=758779
I agree with you 1000%
Hi John and Heidi,
I’m sure that Heidi is glad to be home. Sorry it’s so cold for you but it’s cold in the Midwest too. Sometime it has to get warm. Even though we’ve been to Holland before it was in the winter so we’re looking forward to seeing it when it’s warm.
I posted you comments on cruise critic so it will be interesting to see what new comments you receive. We agree with you, and with the captain’s decision to put the man off the ship. The notion that there would be a difference between a passenger or crew member is ridiculous. A person is a person no matter what and besides I would take most crew members over some of the passengers I read about. That comment reminds me of the woman – I should say female – who made that stupid comment about crew being ashore in Venice when you were at the cafe. Some people have no sense.
Enjoy your time in Holland.
George and Linda
Hi John!
After 13 years of managing an online community about cruising, I thought I had *read it all* re: rants and complaints. This one really struck a cord with me, as well. I simply couldn’t believe the twisted reasoning. Some people are simply “misguided” in life.
Anyway, to everyone — no need to keep posting it over and over on Cruise Critic — it’s there already!
Thanks again, John.
Laura
Community Manager
Cruise Critic
John;
I’ve been enjoying your tales of the Baltic….we were fortunate to visit many of those same ports several years ago and your pictures and info on the blog brought back many fond memories.
You are absolutely correct about the FOOL who was so rude and threatening that he NEEDED to be put off the ship. The airlines put off passengers who are a ‘threat to flight safety’ and it’s only fair that the cruise ships should follow the same protocol. Obviously the FOOL was a threat to somebody’s safety.
Re: Missing a port – I don’t think that there is a guarantee anywhere on our cruise ticket that the ship promises to make every port of call. I was on a cruise where we missed Grand Cayman because it was too windy to tender in. We got no monetary compensation, nor do I think it was necessary nor should it be necessary to compensate for missed ports for reasons of weather or medical emergency.
Thanks for your humorous thoughts that make us laugh.
3 weeks until we’re on Freedom in the Mediterranean!
Dale
John,
I totally agree with everything you wrote. Some people are just plain selfish, uncaring about others, greedy, etc. You know this, you’ve run into a few the past year (at least). I hope this person makes the acquaintance of Mr. Murphy, Monsieur Bell, Fatima and anyone else you can think of. I’ve missed a port because of Tropical Storms, and been delayed a couple of times because of electrical problems and each time received the $25 credit. To me this was just the way it is – I don’t know if anyone else acted like this person (is that too nice a word?), but I didn’t hear anything controversial. This man’s name & photo should be posted with all Carnival Vacation Planners & travel agents (even for other cruise lines – well, maybe let him climb a rock). Poor Jimmy. And I certainly hope the crew member is doing well.
I’m changing the subject – it is too beautiful a day here in NY to talk about such nonsense. Sorry John, but it’s about 80 degrees outside and the sun is shining – Time to start working on my tan.
I love your stories about Holland. That is one of the few places in Europe that I have wanted to see – probably because I love flowers. Pictures please!
My best to Heidi, write more soon,
Carol
John I found your blog during your Emerald Princess trip and have loved all the entries since. Thanks for sharing all these experiences. I wanted to comment on the Conquest. I will be sailing on the Conquest on June 8th and read about this recent situation on the chat lines on Cruise Reviews. I must say I completely agree with you and the posts on the Carnival chat thread show overwhelming support for the Captain and Crew. I am very much looking forward to spending my first cruise with Wee Jimmy.
Hi John,
I also posted it on http://www.cruiselinefans.com/ and on http://www.cruisefools.org/
As usual, about 1000 people have started independent threads on one of the boards.
John, I wholeheartedly agree with you! People seem to get so wrapped up in the “what’s in it for me” mentality these days, that they tend to overlook what really matters. I think the token that Carnival passed on was fair – there was no choice in the matter, but still the “inconvenience” to the guests onboard was acknowledged. I don’t see why this guy is under the impression that a crew member warrants different action than what would have been done for a guest. Did this guy think that the pursers office has some magical “inspector gadget-like” alternative to get this poor crewman into the hands that could help him? It’s not like he just stubbed his pinkie toe here. This guy really needs a reality check! This is along the same lines of the reaction of that other “gentleman” who had a problem with the announcement that you’d made with regards to the young lady that had her family all concerned when she couldn’t be found. These two men must be awfully lonely people!!
John,
Shouldda thrown that db overboard, none of this “Disembarking” crap.
BigMike
B.S. Director
Thank you, John.
I’m thrilled that you addressed the issue of the misguided, ill manner ‘guest’ on the Conquest. Some people believe that they have value that no one else has, that their vacation is more important than anything else in the world, including a human life.
As you know, I am a huge supporter of Massimo Marino. I believe that he is a fine gentleman of astounding character. He made a decision that he knew would not be easy to live with but he made it and I’m glad he did. God willing, I’ll be sailing with him again late this summer and I’ll be thrilled to shake his hand again and compliment him on his handling of the situation.
Thanks again, my friend.
GregB
Hi John/Heidi:
Excellent blog and i completely agree with you. The nerve of that passenger.
I hope the crewmember is doing much better now.
My prayers go out to you Big Ed as you deal with your family issues.
Thanks for thinking of us John and keep on writing.
Take care!
David
John, you are SO right! I think it would be best for the entire cruising community if that little grease stain and his whole barbarian horde never set foot on a ship again. I agree with the others who want him placed on a permanent blacklist because I SURE don’t want to sail with him!
FOR BIG ED.
Prayers are ongoing for Jim and your family. God Bless.
My solid gold plastic tiara is tipped for the captain in making two good decisions–taking care of the sick individual–AND for kicking the jerk off the ship.
Thanks, John, for praising the US Coast Guard. Duke Dick helped save many lives during his Coast Guard SAR (search & rescue) service back in the ’60s, but you won’t hear him pat himself on the back for it, so thanks for giving me this opportunity to say that, because we are blessed with soooo many dedicated men and women in our armed forces.
Big Ed,
Your brother-in-law and your family have my prayers of course. I’ll make sure everyone says one at the Seder tomorrow night.
Take care,
Carol
John,
So glad you addressed this story. I had been following it on Cruise Critic. I completely support the captain for his decision. I would not want to sail with someone that behaved in that manner. And, I agree with you about how disgusting it is that he and his band of followers felt like their visiting Jamaica was more important than saving anyone’s life…crew of passenger. I’m sure he would have felt differently if it was him or one of his sons. Let’s hope his sons don’t turn out like him when they’re adults!
Kudos to the Conquest staff for their handling of this issue, and thank God for the crew member’s recovery.
The Kilmartins
Hi John & Heidi,
The only thing I don’t understand is why Carnival paid this jerks way back to the states.
Should have left him in GC.
Hi John,
I guess you dont want to hear that it is 71 degrees in S. Mississippi. These folks on the Conquest did have a recourse that none of them took, Carnival’s Vacation Guarantee. They could have flown home from Grand Cayman if they were that unhappy and Carnival would have re-imbursed them their airfare.
One thing that Carnival did do was pay the guy’s way home. That would have been more than I would have done for him.
Dave
John -
Props to you for commenting on the Conquest situation. I am comforted in Carnival’s ability to make the RIGHT decisions when someone’s life is at stake and to not tolorate the behavior of this man.
Also please send Wee Jimmy a hug for me (and maybe take a picture while you are at it =). He, I know, handled things to the best of his ability. I hate that he and the staff/crew were treated so poorly by this wretched man for doing the right thing. Much love to Wee Jimmy and I hope that he knows how many people out here support him and the Captain’s decisions!
Thanks for blogging while traveling! I have enjoyed reading! Also thanks for letting Bubba write about his adventures! When might we see Blogs from other CD’s…like for example Wee Jimmy?
Much love to you and Heidi!
Take Care!
Ashley
John,
I was going to wait till you returned home to post any long comments, but, after reading what you had to say today, I feel the need to comment. First I hope you had the chance to help Jimmy with sime kind words of wisdom and please tell him for me, that yes it is tough to have to deal with people like that passenger, but please don’t take it to heart and feel it was something you did. I am postive that you handled it the correct way, and did what you needed to do for the safety of the crew and other passangers. John I have had many oppertunities to sail with Both you and Wee Jimmy (as your assistant) and I have been on over 23 Carnaval cruises, and yes I have missed ports for many reasons, weather, delays leaving Miami, and I was on the trip back in the 90′s when the Sensation broke down on her way to San Juan. It is part of cruising. How many times did you blog from the Freedom about missng Grand Cayman Island because of weather. I commend the capt and crew for what they did, and how the handled the situation.
on another note, you will be happy to hear that Bubba will feel at home later this month when he sails the Spirt to Hawaii. there is a large group going on that trip that will be doing Counrty Line dancing lessons. Some friends of mine are gong to be instructors on this trip. so Ihope he has fun.
Your Friend
Capt Bill
Big Ed: My prayers go out to you and your family, especially to your brother in law Jim. If we all pray together, a miracle will occur! God Bless, Linda
Oh boy, here we go again with refunds! What an a**hole. I’m glad he was disembarked and hope that the crewmember is alright. Poor Wee Jimmy!
) I for once understand that there are some unforseen events that nobody can predict or avoid. That’s life!!!
That reminds me, my wedding place was changed from private beach to public beach due to a fire on St. Thomas and my flowers never made it there. How much is MY refund??? Just kidding!
Have fun at the flower show and take a lot of pictures, pleeease….
What a jerk! Hopefully he will never be allowed to cruise again – on any ship and ship line. Unbelievable how nasty some people can be.
We’ve enjoyed your blogs a great deal and read them every day even if we don’t always comment. Jeri and Larry
Sorry to say that there are simply some people who just don’t get it and care nothing about anyone but themselves. Years ago while ported in Ocho Rios on a Holland America ship one of the crew, while enjoying some well earned R&R, was killed while jet skiing in the bay. The local authorities detained the ship for 2-3 hours while they did their mandatory investigation. Our next port of call was Grand Cayman, a very short sail, with a day at sea in between… so we easily made that port on schedule. Yet, while sitting in Ocho Rios waiting for release by the authorities, I remember several guests complaining bitterly about the delay and wanting (of course) compensation. Arriving on schedule in the next port made no difference to them. Some people are just no d@%n good
Hi John..
Reminds me of years ago on the Mardi Gras; a crew member accidently fell overboard and due to the mandatory return and search efforts we arrived back to Miami later than expected. News truck and team raced up to the gangway and I’ll always remember them saying as they turned off their cameras and walked away -”oh its only a crewmember”.
On a lighter note…loving all the stories from Europe – thanks for the smiles and chuckles!
John,
Please make sure Carnival big wigs read this….PLEASE BLACK LIST THIS MAN….I DO NOT EVER WANT TO BE ON A CRUISE SHIP WITH HIM!!!
Princess Susan
ps…Big Ed…my church is still prayer for Jim and your family…may they find peace to help them get through this time of sorrow.
John, thanks for sharing Wee Jimmy’s espisode with the crazy man. Our thoughts and prayers are with the crew member and hope that they are recovering. Just put me on a ship to nowhere and I would be happy! I enjoyed Bubba’s guest blogs from Alaska too! The pictures and tales from your travels these last few weeks have been awesome.
Keep’em coming.
Hello to Heidi and hope that she is doing great!
Elaine Marks,
GOD is not a word you have to leave letters out of in here. So it is ok to say ….” GOD Bless You All and the US Coast Guard…”
BIG ED
John,
When I was on the Carnival Liberty for the Europian cruise with my two cousins (We had a blast) anyway, we could not go into port to see Florence, Pisa and Tuscany because of the weather conditions. Yes, we were very disapointed but we knew that Carnival was looking out for our safety and the port athorities call the shots. It;s just not a perfect cruise world sometimes BUT we still consider our cruise to be very memorable.
I would tell that nasty man to : SUCK IT UP NANCY!
Love the Blog, Ciao, Kathleen
Oh for Pete’s sake…..Some people are simply unbelievable… To those types of fools or buffoons … I ask…”Would you like some cheese with your whine?” (Dutch thing again and Michigan is pretty close to Wisconsin
)
I am flummoxed as to why some jerk-weeds think so highly of themselves ….that they are entitled to more compensation and have a total disrespect of others including crew members. If things don’t go according to plan they get totally bent out of shape and they have the audacity to think that their insignificant port visit is worth more than a human life. Get over it d-bag ….and here’s the plank……..
John,
How tragic it is that one individual would put his
own pleasure above the well-being of a Carnival crew member. These individuals are humans also and deserve to be treated with the same dignity as the passengers. I wonder if folks complain if a ship is diverted due to a medical evacuation for a passenger. Thank goodness, Carnival dealt with it in a professional manner. I am sorry “Wee Jimmy” had to deal with that hostile situation.
I will certainly keep the crew member in my prayers.
Thanks for all the information you are providing.
Big Ed, will also keep your family in my prayers also. It is never good when you reach the point where hospice has been contacted. All you can do is try to provide as much support as possible, and try to make the remaining days as positive as possible. Anyway, this will not be an easy time. Godspeed, my friend!
Dear John:
I am in utmost agreement of the decision made by Captain Marino. Human life takes precedence (sp?) over anything or anyone else.
I have been on several ships that needed to make similar calls for the sake of someone who was ill. EVERYONE was grateful that the person was well taken care of and happy to see the care and concern that was afforded to them. At those times when we had natural fatalities on board, it was the passengers who came together to aid and assist the bereaved in packing and making arrangements for their sad trip home . . . with no complaints or bitterness . . . just observing the Golden Rule.
It seems to me that what this disgruntled passenger was doing was a crime: inciting to riot. Another word comes to mind that that is “mutiny.” My regret was that Carnival “paid” for his trip home. It was a lot more than what I would have done.
The words are clear in the contract: the Captain rules the waves! I do hope the patient is doing well. She will be in my prayers.
It was suggested that people expected better communication about what was happening. I firmly believe in the right to privacy and NOBODY has the right to know anything but that there was an ill patient. That should have been sufficient.
While we watched the delicate maneuvering of patients from several of our trips, we applauded the care and professionalism of everyone concerned, the finding of a suitable place where a helicopter could land, and the safe transference of the patient. I am reassured that if anything happens (God forbid) to me or mine, that I will be afforded this care along with the prayers of my fellow passengers.
John,
I know the situation you mention… but I chose NOT TO READ any of the blogs or threads about it… too angry, too mean, too uncaring!
God Bless the crew member. I pray she’s OK!!
I missed a port because of weather and heard protests and complaints about modern ships, the Captain’s ability, etc… If it’s so important to be guaranteed something in life: there’s death and taxes… that’s it!
It’s good you mentioned it… maybe it can finally be put to bed!! …Not stirred (only for some martinis) or churned (only for fluffy butter).
As for your “certain part” I hope it’s toasty warm now… along with the rest of you!!!
I love the cold… but not the bitter cold… That said… for the charm of windmills and Holland, I’d take whatever God sent me!!!
Bless you and Heidi and our wonderful Stephanie!!
Lambie
John, I have been with some really wonderful Friends for 5 days that we met on the blog and Blogger’s cruise. We spent my birthday in Key West and in their home located in Miami. Now we are making plans to have them here in Georgia and travel as often as our fun tickets can possibly hold out. I am crying. Because this is the first blog I have been able to tune into in many days. You see it was one year ago on my birthday that I had the guts to drop a post to you. stick my neck out in the public forum based on the blogs you had begun for the Freedom. At the time, you thought it might be nice to open the eyes of the world to the joy of cruising and the life of those who make it possible. Your humor and information was infectious. We had already been booked for the European cruise. The blogger’s were so funny and warm. And one night I reached out to you all because of my family’s health crisis and all the blogger’s and you encouraged me and held out hope. Well, it is a year, full circle and I read of this inconsiderate act of one man to form a “mutiny” because a missed port on vacation meant more to him than a precious life saved. Thank goodness to Carnival for placing the priorities of living above money and for disembarking a dangerous element from the remainder of the guests and crew. His acts were criminal if they were as your Cruise directer described. It just breaks my heart………
yours,
Kap ( Kathie )
Hi, John,
Wow, what a jerk “Wee” Jimmy, the captain and all the crew had to put up with. Am glad to see the dude got tossed off. I do, however, really like your particular plan of punishment…seasick and unable to open one’s mouth???!!! EEEEWWWWW! It’s a pity such attitudes exist in the world.
Thanks so much for today’s tour of Holland. I love that place. Yes, it’s too cold this time of year, but when it’s warmer the beauty of the country is unsurpassed. (The cheese is pretty good, too!)
Hello to Heidi and my best wishes to you both,
Myra
PS. Big Ed, I, too am praying for your brother in law and all the family. God bless you all.
Myra
John,
First, please keep us updated on the crew member and he will certainly be in my prayers.
Second, may all the unhappy people and the “man” sail on one of the “other” lines-bet they don’t give credits. I am with Big Ed and take all the credits and give to the crew member/family.
The blogs are great but sure is going to be hard trying to decide which tour to take.
Sharon
John,
I think most of us feel the same way you do.
When the incident was first posted on CC, couldn’t believe the gall of the trouble maker.
Life is more important than a port. You can always go back to the missed port another time. Hope the crew member is doing better.
I did read a lot of the posts about the Conquest incident and while most folks were completely supportive of Captain Marino, it was disheartening to see some of the comments (right down to “pregnant women shouldn’t be aboard” – huh?!) It also appears that despite his years of navigational experience, Captain Marino was being second-guessed by amateur navigators using their new GPS units. Thanks for blogging about this incident, John. I’ll put my safety in Captain Marino’s hands any day!
Hi John!
Thank you for addressing this situation. I had seen this on CC and it made me sick to my stomach! It is scary to think that someone would go so far as to get a pettition going and behave in the manner he did. What an idiot! So glad they disembarked him.
***Please send hugs to Wee Jimmy! He is such a sweetheart I am so sorry that happened to him.
Wee Jimmy (Ralph) had to fill in for the DJ for my daughter’s wedding reception 3 years ago. At the time he was a Host or Asst CD on the Glory. We were a mess……I couldn’t even do the electric slide. It was a small group but he made it so much fun for us all. At the time I had no idea how lucky we were to have him DJ for us. Sad thing his when never got to thank him personaly. I left to esscort some elderly visitors off the ship and when I returned he was gone. I did try to track him down all week but he was one busy guy. And I really tried as he had promised me a coveted ship on a stick. Please tell him everyone still talks about how much fun we had and that he made a very special day one we will allways remember with a big smile!
We were so happy when he became a CD and hope to sail with him one day. Would you also please tell him I finally learned the electric slide!LOL!!
Thank you!
Hola John!!
I read this with a little bit of sadness and anger.As the sister of one crew member I can easily relate to your feelings. What are this people thinking?? The Cd and the Captain of the ship did the right thing.
Hi John,
I learned about your blog through the daily buletin aboard the Conquest during the Easter break. I have enjoyed your adventures ever since. Your style, humor and charm besides from the informative reporting are like a master card credit card…………..price less!!
Unfortunalely we did not personally meet good old Jimmy Valente, but we were enchanted by his personality. Tell him we still love him. It seems we took the cruise after the incident with the “gentle”man and the missed trip to Jamaica. They should have thrown the inconsiderate SOB over board. Unfortunately, and being in the hospitality industry, it is too often that we run into such idiots.
Being from Holland I am glad you enjoyed the low country, obviously you, married to a Dutch girl, have no choice to enjoy the Netherlands as well. Should not be too hard though. Have a safe trip to the UK and to and back the west coast.
All the best,
Nick van der Kaaij
A Dutch Man (Ex. HAL employee) living in Guadalajara, Mexico
Good evening Mr. Heald. I feel so angry that a person would stoop to do what he did because a humen being was very ill and he lost a port. It is amazing how stupid people are today in this world. Just remember that at least 3000 thoughtful individuals were there willing to accept the the fact that they may have lost a port but thank God a real human being was saved. If this callous person threatened any person onboard could the police be brought into the picture and maybe the stupid person might realize threats can never be tolerated.
Sorry for writing so much but this situation got me very upset. Ciao my friend.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
OK……..LISTEN UP, THE SHERIFF IS SPEAKING………..
By Order of the Honorable Bubba Jones, judge of the Magistrate Court of Hazzard County, Georgia (and my brother-in-law), an arrest warrant has been issued for that not so very nice “guest” on the Conquest.
My deputies are en route to bring him back to Georgia. Not to worry though…….I have a very nice cell waiting for him. And, his cellmate can’t wait for a new friend!
Only 22 days until Mama Sheriff and I hit the Glory. John, make sure the Moonshine is there.
Handcuffs To All!
Rosco P. Coltrane
Sheriff
John -
Simply stated, I express my sincere appreciation to all Carnival seafaring employees whose sole concern is my safety and well fare. If, at any time, it is necessary to deviation from the planned itinerary for said reasons, please accept my sincere appreciation for your professional judgment in these matters.
IMO, every person should, if given the chance to meet the Captain during a cruise, thank him for his services – the job is not easy and, especially during hurricane season, requires a lot of dancing to keep everyone safe AND happy.
Jon
John, Thanks for your comments on the Conquest mutiny. Too bad you were not there to handle that jerk.
John,
I totally agree with everything you have said. The problem with many people today is that they have lost all sense of decency and decorum. I work in an ER of a large hospital.You would not believe
how many people yell because a heart attack was
taken through triage to be seen before they were.
I am with Big Ed. They should have made him walk the plank .
HI John,
I know you must be exhausted from all the traveling and whirl wind touring. Just wanted to give you and Heidi my support and ditto the comments from all the other bloggers regarding the “incident”.
Dear John,
I haven’t read any of the CC or CM stories about this situation but it just goes to show the sense of “entitlement” so many feel these days. We want money for every little inconvenience that comes along. As my parents taught us “Life’s not fair–deal with it!”
Traveling by cruise ship is not the same as visiting a resort (where the contract is a place to sleep) or traveling by plane (where the contract is to get from Point A to Point B). When you sign on to take a cruise, you join a community that includes both passengers and crew and, as a part of that community, you take the good and the bad (fortunately 99.9% of the time–it’s only the good). It is a fragile ecosystem that keeps us afloat on the high seas.
So remember the sailors–all of whom keep us safe. Some may look like waiters, or dancers or cabin stewards or CDs but all have answered (in the words of Jimmy Buffett):
Mother, mother ocean
I have heard you call
Wanted to sail upon your waters since I was three feet tall
You’ve seen it all, you’ve seen it all
Watched the men who rode you
Switch from sails to steam
And in your belly you hold the treasures few have ever seen
Most of ‘em dream, most of ‘em dream
Kathi
John,
As a longtime reader of your blog, I have enjoyed,but never commented,waiting for the right time to add my .02 for the first time. Now is the time !!!
Even though you feel the need to point out the disclaimer, I would hope that Carnival is proud that as a representative of their name,your opinion reflects the fact that no itinerary, excursion , portof call, etc. is more important than the lives of the passengers on that vessel.
When you pay your fare for a cruise,you are entitled to all the best amenities that ship can provide.
What you are not entitled to is to make the life and death decisions that the master of that vessel must make when the need arises. When you step foot on that ship,you are trusting the Captain and staff to make the best decisions possible to protect your well being. Everyone onboard has that same expectation,whether they be passenger or crew. In this case the Captain made a decison based on the welfare of someone under his charge and everyone aboard has to abide by that decision.
If Jamaica meant so much to this man,why in the world did he book a vacation that was only going to spend 1 day there??
Maybe he is just bitter because in this case the Captain was able to find help for the sick crewman, but unfortunately for the man in question you just can’t cure stupid
Hey John,
Been a while, but life has been happening. Regarding the situation on the Conquest, I have to say that I agree with the Captain’s decision. We actually read the ticket contract before we make the final payment. Maybe this is unusual, I really don’t know. Last year when we sailed on the Glory, we lost Costa Maya and Belize as our ports. We were redirected to Progreso and Key West. I had no desire to go to Key West. I can drive there from here. But, we did not get a bad attitude, or make demands because of it. Although, a Mah Jong set would have been a nice touch. I have run into enough unreasonable passengers. I could not even imagine what it would be like to be on a cruise with a jerk like this.
Heidi-Beth is going to e-mail Wee Jimmy and let him know of our support for the crew in this incident.
Till next time
Kevin
I know I have been slow to post an am a day or 2 behind in reading but I have read them all. I wanted to first say I have been, as you know, we have been on a cruise with Wee Jimmy as CD and really enjoyed being able to talk with him thanks to you John, and he is a very capable and it would not surprise me that he becomes one of Carnivals best CDs second only to you John.
There is never a right to demand anything when the life of another is involved the actions of this man were heartless, crew member or not a human life is precious. In a vacation we all know that anything can happen, problems can occur at no fault to anyone, I read the news reports and the first thing I did was say a pray for this person, his family and for Wee Jimmy, the Captain and the crew, they did all they could. I know if I was one of the other passengers I would have been glad when those who caused the trouble where removed. All this shows is that if the need ever occurred that Carnival is willing to do all they can to save a life and that is always first.
the One
and only 1
Heidi-Beth
I’m pleased to announce that one of my distant relatives was on board Titanic, but he did not sign the petition to complain about the lack of a proper entertainment program in the lifeboats…..
John, Thank you for info. on the crazy man on wanting everyone to sign a petition. HE IS NUTS!!! I hope one day he needs $25.00 (thats all) to save HIS LIFE and he finds it hard to get!! The captian did right and so was your thoughts too John. STAY WARM and SEE YOU SOON!!
Paula and Nelson Baker
John,
Have been reading your “blog thingy” just have not had the time to reply to a few until now. I hope that unidentified clown is reading your blog and the many replies to the recent incident on the Conquest. It is no different when an airliner has to divert to another location, not only for foul weather but in-flight emergencies to include medical assistance. Its not like the ship has nothing to do, we always go on cruises for the ship first and stops second. To know that a life was saved should be a great feeling with anyone with a heart, obviously this clown does not have one. I hope he is black balled and not allowed on any Carnival cruises and any other shipping entity for that matter. I keep saying money is taking us all to hell in a hand basket. We need to get back to basics and have fun, enjoy life on earth and treat everyone as you would like to be treated. Only satisfaction I had was you guys did the right thing and had the passenger disembark. Only sad thing is I wish the same rules applied when Federal Authorities meet an aircraft that a passenger has disrupted. Cruises need to have those “Marshalls” waiting with handcuffs. Anyway enough said, only 350 days before “Freedom” time ourselves. You and Heidi take care and stay warm.
Luis Torres
Good Morning John
Trying to catch up on your blog from the last two days.
It really upsets me when I hear or read about someone injured on board. It upsets me even more when there are “people” (I use that term lightly…obviously this guy still is a “knuckle dragger”) who complain. If someone’s life is threatened and he/she needs emergency treatement then I would think it appropriate to detour, delay or miss a port. Nothing is more important than saving someone’s life or easing their pain. I know first hand how capable the medical staff on board is. My granddaughter, one her first cruis when she was 3, had her fingers shut in a cabin door. The medical staff was outstanding and thank heaven there was no broken bones or permanent damage to my granddaughter’s hand. But if she had needed emergency shore side treatment at least I know that she would have received it and most of the passengers would have understood.
It has been my understanding that Carnival (or any cruise line) has the option to cancel or change the the port of call with no obligation to refund/reimburse for the change.
Take heart that most of the passengers are understanding. It’s people like that man that make you realize how good the rest of the human race are.
Take care
Joan
Hi John,
Given the amount of comments this guy has incensed everybody. Both Lisa and I have been disgusted in the past when doing tours with people who start whinging at the slightest incovenience and head straight to the pursers desk on return to ensure they lodge their complaint (with full intentions of getting the tour refunded).
I think some of them are professional whingers and wouldn’t be happy no matter what you did. My sister had to be taken off a Holland America Tour in Alaska last year with a suspected heart attack and while it didn’t alter any of the itinerary I am sure that the concern that was shown by all the other passengers helped her recovery. She and her family would have been devestated if people had acted like this jerk on Conquest. What goes around comes around he will get his in due course.
Regards
Suzanne & lisa
It must be miserable being that unhappy that the bitterness spills out even while on vacation. I hope that man is able to find happiness somewhere and realize the true meaning of life.
John, I agree with you 100%…if it was my family member – passenger or crew – I would want only the best for them – as well as anyone’s family member. So sorry the crew had to endure such harsh words/gestures from this pin-head.
Lori
John,
One of the reasons we love reading your blog is your honest heartfelt responses. Although we all should understand that this is your own private log; you do Carnival proud in every way. Thanks!
Mom & I were lucky to have Wee Jimmy as our CD on our cruise. I wish I had known this before so I could have personally thanked him or given him some nod to what a great job he was doing to in some small way make up for this jerk’s behavior. He is so hardworking, I basically just enjoyed him from afar, laughed and tried to join in with whatever we were doing.
Big Ed: We are keeping Jim and your whole family in our prayers during this difficult time. Thanks for letting us know so that we can pray with you and others. Prayer works always.
Andrea (and Janet)