I know I am a little late writing about this but the Obamas became the owners of a Portuguese water dog, named Bo. Subsequently, the advent of the First Dog made heart-warming “And finally…” stories around the world’s TV news broadcasts.
Well, there we go. They’ve got the damn dog now and it gives me a chance to talk about the four legged things. On Friday night I enjoyed a quick dinner with some Roger and his beautiful wife Marie and their two fab kids.
Unfortunately we had one extra dinner companion ………a Cocker Spaniel called Shitter……..sorry………called Fisher.
They were looking after it for a friend……….It was a cute looking thing and as we walked around Lincoln Road a posh part of Miami’s famous South Beach district I saw that having a dog was, in this part of town as much a fashion accessories as Botox and tits like the alps.
We had only been walking a fewer yards when Fisher saw how much a bowl of pasta was at the restaurants on Lincoln road………and did a huge shite right there on the side walk. While Roger and Marie and I panicked and the kids laughed as only kids do when an any animal does a poo ……….the rest of the people on Lincoln road just walked on by…..as if it was the most normal thing ion the world.
Later, while we were having dinner I watched a man and his Doberman walk over to a patch of grass and take a crap right there in front of the open air dining establishments ……………and then the dog did one as well.
It’s the same at home in the UK. Every morning, on my three-minute stroll to buy a newspaper, I encounter at least three brand new turds, on my side of the street alone, glistening in the sun. When the snow was falling, and the street-cleaning guy couldn’t get through, there were layers of turd interleaved with the layers of frozen snow like some poo-flavored crème brulet. And the thaw brought hourly uncoverings of newly revealed hound crap, kept fresh by the sub-zero temperatures, the goodness sealed in, the scent released gradually over the days.
Anyway, it seems that your President is an animal lover………….or is he?
He was doing an interview was old POTUS to discuss Iran, the economy and health care, but what made all the headlines was a dead fly. During an interview on American television yesterday, Barrack Obama dispatched the creature with a deft swat and laconically observed Clint Eastwood style: “That was pretty impressive, wasn’t it? I got the sucker.” Cool or what? Can this man do no wrong? But the President should take care. This was a “make my day” moment for Mr. Obama……….and the fly did not feel lucky.
Now I realize I am way behind on answering questions so please forgive me and I promise to work extra hard these next few days in order to catch up …………….starting now………….here we go.
Joyce geraci Asked:
John-Please reply
Next summer I would like to take my granddaughter on a Mediterranean cruise to celebrate her graduation. I took my other GD on a land European tour for hers, but it was really quite hectic & tiring. Since Carnival no longer does the Med (boo-hoo) which line would you recommend? She will be 18 yrs. old, so we’d like activities geared to her age group. The itinerary on the Liberty was perfect for what we want to see. If you have a recommendation, could you either post it here or e-mail me. Sorry this is so long, but I like to plan early. Kiss Miss Kye for her Aunt Joyce!
John Says:
Hello Joyce
I have said many times how much I miss sailing in the Med and I hope that 2011 will be the year we return. I think it’s wonderful that you want to take your granddaughter on a cruise to see such places as Venice for herself. While Holland America and Costa sail to such places judging by the information you provide me here I have no doubt but to recommend Princess Cruises. They will have the Ruby Princess and the Emerald Princess sailing there in 2010 and I know their product very well. They have great facilities and your granddaughter will for sure make new friends from her age group. Why not have a look at the Princess website and then if you have any questions come on back to me here on the blog thingy and I will be happy to help answer them. Princess is a brilliant line and I know you will both enjoy immensely a Med voyage on one of their Grand class of ships.
Best wishes to you and the family
John
Carol and Terry Asked:
Please reply. We’ve just booked another Carnival cruise and can’t wait as we’ve loved every one we’ve been on (you’ve always been the cruise director. Unfortunately, you won’t be this time unless you’re on the Miracle in October). However, booking got me thinking about Platinum status. We’ve always done cruises that were 7 – 12 days long. Do the short cruises (2 -3 days) count toward the 10 cruises needed for Platinum status? It seems, if they do, that there could be two ways to achieve Platinum status–total number of cruises or a total of days sailed. Carnival could find a way (maybe something like a total of 60 or 70 0r some number for days sailed) to reward cruisers who take fewer but longer cruisers. Just a thought from a Carnival lover. Any chance for getting a change to Platinum status? Oh, keep those pictures of Kye coming. She’s so adorable.
John Says:
Hello Carol and Terry
Congratulations on booking your next Carnival cruise and even though I cannot be there with you I know that you will love the Carnival Miracle and her brilliantly friendly crew. Somewhat controversially the shorter cruises do count towards your Platinum status. I say controversial because some feel that this is not fare and those who take longer seven day cruises etc should be given extra rewards…….maybe they are right. But for now that’s the company policy but I know that this and many other aspects of our rewards program is being looked at by Jim Berra, our chief marketing officer. This is very much “on his desk” and I know he has but one goal and that is to make Carnival’s rewards program the best rewards program in the industry……..and he will. As soon as I hear of any changes I will let you know.
Meanwhile thanks so much for mentioning Kye whom I feel a long way from today ……. Father’s Day.
Best wishes to you both
John
Host Mach from Cruise Critic Asked:
John, please reply, my friend!!
Sometimes, regardless of what’s written, people follow their own path.
There’s yet another discussion going on about the dress code for the dining rooms. Everyone knows what it says at Carnival.com but the real world experience is VASTLY different. Many people are reporting that the dress in the dining room is no better than what we see at the Lido Deck buffet and I don’t doubt what they’re saying.
I recall last year when the dress code was ‘relaxed’. There was a great deal of objection to the more lax standards and there were many forecasts of exactly what people are reporting now. Are the Maitre d’s no longer enforcing the dress code at all?? If that’s the case, it’s a sad state of affairs, indeed.
Can you offer any wisdom??
Thanks a bunch, my friend!!!
Ciao!!
Host Mach
John Says:
Hello Mach
First of all let me publicly thank you for all the help and support you give this blog thingy over at Cruise Critic. I know some doughnut called Kevin made some girly jealous remarks on the blog but like the cruise line he obviously works for I hope you chose to ignore it with the contempt it deserved.
I hope you saw my reply to the string about dress codes. I really don’t think that it is that big of a problem. I asked Manuel Costa the Senior Maitre D here on the Carnival Freedom about how many complaints he gets about what others wear at dinner and if he has to send any guests away from the dining room due to them wearing inappropriate dress. Manuel told me that he has been here 4 months and has never had one complaint from a guest about what another guest is wearing and that yes………he does occasionally have to remind one or two that they cannot enter with tank tops etc.
There is also the fact that occasionally guests do lose their luggage and thus are forced to wear what they traveled in………….something to remember. So, the Maitre D’s will continue to enforce the code and again……just my opinion…….but I just don’t understand how what another guest is wearing spoils the taste of my chocolate melting cake of somehow ruins the great service I have been receiving from the dining room staff. I wonder what others think.
Thanks again Mach and my best to Stitch and I think a 3 carat should do the trick
John
Sheryl Asked:
John please reply- Thank you for replying to my question pertaining to being able to order a sugar free special occasion cake for my husband, who is a diabetic. We will be sailing on the Carnival Pride on August 29, 2009 and his birthday is August 31st. I’ll be on the lookout for it on Carnival’s website and/or at the Formalities shop on board. Thanks again for all of your help!
John Says:
Hello Sheryl
This is definitely in the works Cheryl and I will make sure that as soon as this has been added to our Bon Voyage inventory I will let you know. No need to thank me. As a fellow diabetic I am definitely on the case.
Best wishes to you and the family
John
Susan V Asked:
Hi John, Heidi & Kye:
I hope you have a wonderful time judging the dance contest. Just be yourself and honesty is the best policy or follow what the other judges are saying if all else fells!
John Please Reply:
We had a wonderful Maitri D on the Celebration when she was in service by the name of Joseph. He sang, visited the tables every night and made our trip even more memorable. What ship is he on now?
I also want you to know I received in invitation from House Party to host a RCCL house party. I actually laughed when I saw it and thought I guess they couldn’t come up with their own idea so let’s follow the best cruise line, Carnival!
Here is what was sent:
HOST A ROYAL CARIBBEAN GET AWAY FROM THE EVERYDAY HOUSE PARTY!
The opportunity you’ve been waiting for is finally here — the chance to host a Royal Caribbean Get Away From the Everyday House Party, sponsored by Cruise Planners/American Express!
In order to be considered for a host spot, you must meet the following requirements:
* You must crave an exhilarating, unparalleled vacation experience. * You must be willing to leave your everyday stresses behind and relax. * You must be open to new experiences and adventures — an essential element of the Royal Caribbean vacation.
Meet our prerequisites? Fantastic! You are well on your way to getting the party started as Royal Caribbean, together with Cruise Planners/American Express, brings the cruise vacation experience to you on August 8th, 2009. At the party you’ll discover your CruisitudeSM as you enjoy fun activities with friends and family.
It’s the perfect excuse for a summer bash — so get ready to get away from your everyday, as you join the citizens of the Nation of Why Not — a carefree, Royal Caribbean community at sea!
Thought you would get a laugh out of it. Guess what, I won’t be hosting their party. I only do Carnival parties!!!
Hope you have a safe trip to Miami and immigration is very kind to you!
Make sure you take lots of pictures of Kye with you to decorate your office with and show off your beautiful daughter!
Till next time…
Susan & Scott
Marsha Breen Asked:
John – please reply
I imagine I’m not the only one who got this email but I thought I would share it with you:
HOST A ROYAL CARIBBEAN GET AWAY FROM THE EVERYDAY HOUSE PARTY! The opportunity you’ve been waiting for is finally here — the chance to host a Royal Caribbean Get Away From the Everyday House Party, sponsored by Cruise Planners/American Express!
In order to be considered for a host spot, you must meet the following requirements:
You must crave an exhilarating, unparalleled vacation experience. You must be willing to leave your everyday stresses behind and relax. You must be open to new experiences and adventures — an essential element of the Royal Caribbean vacation. Meet our prerequisites? Fantastic! You are well on your way to getting the party started as Royal Caribbean, together with Cruise Planners/American Express, brings the cruise vacation experience to you on August 8th, 2009. At the party you’ll discover your CruisitudeSM as you enjoy fun activities with friends and family.
It’s the perfect excuse for a summer bash — so get ready to get away from your everyday, as you join the citizens of the Nation of Why Not — a carefree, Royal Caribbean community at sea! Spaces are limited.
Wow – can’t they even come up with their own “original” ideas????????
John Says:
Hello Susan and Scott and hello Marsha
They say that copying someone or something is the highest form of stealing ……. sorry ……flattery and I guess that’s how we have to look at this. It shouldn’t be surprising though as they have copied many of our marketing strategies and where we go they usually follow. The house party was successful for Carnival as I am sure it will be for fans of the Cantthinkofourownideas Of The Seas. They will receive a box full of party favors and treats just like we sent the Carnival fans………..however don’t be surprised if they charge if the box is delivered after midnight. The instructions will also be similar to Carnival’s House Party. There will be told to invite their friends over, enjoy fun and games and to provide food………the only difference is that like the steaks in the dining room………….they will have to pay to eat.
Thanks for the kind words for Kye and my best wishes to all three of you and your families
John
jspirit Asked:
John: Please respond: Just wondering if you ever received my personal email to your addie about 3 weeks ago- just before you left for this time away. Hoping you can retrieve it and follow up. If not, I will send a new one. Please let me know. Is Ken scheduled to be on the Dream with you at the end of Feb. 2010? Thanks.
John Says:
Hello jspirit
I didn’t see any personal e-mails so please send a comment again and I promise to reply. Ken Byrne the most famous Maitre D in the world will indeed be on the Carnival Dream and I hope he will be with me during my tenure on board in February. I will no more about his schedule later this year and will let everyone know as he makes such a difference to the cruise experience. I also want to give a plug to the other Maitre d Miguel who is currently on the Carnival Splendor. He is so funny and has the most amazing warm and friendly personality. There is no doubt that the Carnival Dream will have two of the very best in the dining rooms.
Best wishes
John
Bmore Adam Asked:
John,
Please reply!!!
Congrats on your beautiful new daughter!
I would have replied earlier to your question about if cruise directors make a big difference. But I just got off the Carnival Pride sailing on 6/6 and I’ve been trying to catch up on reading all your blog entries. A great cruise director absolutely can make a huge difference in your cruising experience.
I specifically remember sailing on the Carnival Glory in April of 2003 because you were the cruise director and Wee Jimmy or Ralph or whoever was your ACD. It was your last week as CD and you guys were hysterical. I know that my group of 10 people laughed whenever we saw you guys, whether during the morning show, on stage or just about the ship. That being said, I am sorry to say you two weren’t the funniest I’ve seen together.
That would go to CD Kirk and his wonderful ACD Jaime who were on the Pride last week. They were a total trip, and you never knew when one would be playing tricks on the other. The two of them were awesome together, but I know Jaime said that she was excited to be working with you again soon.
The other thing that was really funny was that the comedian Lewis Nixon was on the Pride last week. For some reason his Top Ten list was oddly similar to yours. I really don’t know why a comedian feels the need to steal a CD’s material. Do you?
By the way, Lewis says “Catch the Pigeon.”
Thanks, Adam in Baltimore
John Says:
Hello Adam and thanks for the warm words of congratulations on Kye’s arrival in our world. I was so glad to read your comments about cruise directors and how they can indeed make a difference. Ralph or Wee Jimmy as he was known, was my Assistant CD when we were together on the Carnival Glory and I miss working with him very much.
I have a feeling that Lewis, Jaime and Kirk put you up to this but just in case they didn’t let me say this. Kirk and Jaime have been working very closely together and seem to have gotten something straight between them………meaning of course they have a brilliant rapport on stage. I think Jaime has been pumping Kirk for information on how to be a great cruise director which he is ……and she will be. So, they make a great team and are already being called the Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie of Carnival.
As for Lewis………..well I was going to say something cruel about him but I can’t. As you probably heard Lewis was mugged while disembarking the Carnival Pride in Baltimore. His attackers robbed him and left him on the pier bound and gagged…………..of course ………….it was someone else’s gag!……….Catch The Pigeon
Sounds like you had a great time Adam and that’s wonderful news
Hope to sail with you soon
Best wishes
John
Janet Asked:
John: Please reply as I can’t find an answer anywhere on the internet. Inquiring minds want to know: What defines a “class” of cruise ships? Is that different for each cruise line? Why are there some classes with only 1 or 2 ships in them? At Carnival, how/who comes up with the names of the classes and names of the individual ships?
Thank you, Janet
John Says:
Hello Janet
These are all good questions. A “class” of ships refers to the build size and shape. For example one of the industry’s most successful classes of ships was and still is the 70,000-ton Fantasy class. This meant that when Carnival gave instructions to the shipyard to build the Fantasy they also gave instructions to build more exact replicas of that ship. So, the Fantasy was the first ship of that design to be built and because she was the first the following ships like the Ecstasy, Sensation and Imagination were exact replicas of the Fantasy’s hull – eight in total, actually. The class of ship is usually named after the first ship of that design. Carnival Spirit was the first of a new design and thus the Carnival Pride, Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle are all part of the “Spirit” class of ships.
This is the same throughout the industry. For example Princess has the 109,000-ton Grand Princess and her sister ships of the same build are all part of the Grand class of vessels.
Sometimes, such as in the case of the Fantasy class a cruise line will order numerous hulls of the same design or in some cases just one or two. There is no standard reason for this except to say that the cruise lines have to adapt to changing markets and want to add new designs onboard so often this will involve producing a new class of vessel …………. such as your Carnival Dream.
As for the names………….well this is usually decided by the company’s president and his or her advisors. Actually this is not easy as many names within the industry have been used and duplicated once or even twice by other companies, including Carnival. Take the word Dream …………. it’s the perfect name for a ship…………….and it’s one that Disney have decided to use although I would think a ship filled with 1,800 kids and riddled with mice, ducks and chipmunks is more a nightmare than a dream.
Anyone have a good name suggestion for a Carnival ship?
Anyway Janet, I hope this answers your questions and if you have a follow up I will be here to help.
Best wishes
John
Kathy Asked:
Hi John,
Please respond.
I was wondering as Carnival refurbishes it ships and builds new ones like the Dream and Magic, if they are also going to be making more of the cabins available for the handicapped. Currently only 20 to 31 cabins are available per ship out of hundreds of cabins, so it would seem to me that since more handicapped passengers are cruising or would like to cruise, Carnival would be making more cabins available to them. I know on the Splendor, there are only 2 balcony rooms that are handicapped, which totally surprised me; it would seem with a brand new ship they would have been more. I do know that Carnival leads the shipping industry with the most handicapped cabins (555 fleet wide), but I think that they need even more. As a handicapped person it was quite a job every time I got done using my scooter to have to take it apart to be able to put it in my room, then put it back together in the room to charge it, take it apart again the next morning, then put it back together outside of my room so I could use it. John, I will say that my room steward was fantastic to me; he would help me take it apart and put it back together. Never once did I have to ask him, he just did it, so when I was leaving, I left him a $50 tip because he earned it and more.
So, as a handicapped person who had to wait almost a year and a half until I could find a ship that had a handicapped room available, please put in a word to someone in the design area to add more handicapped rooms. I can guarantee that these rooms will always be full.
One final question, when the passengers fill out the questionnaire form at the end of the cruise and they say that all of those forms go in for a drawing for a free cruise, is that all of the questionnaires from just that cruise or all of questionnaires from all of the cruises for that year from that ship or is it one free cruise from all of the cruises for that year (fleet wide). The reason that I ask, it because it was kind of confusing when they talked about it.
I hope you have a nice flight to the states and I would like to welcome you back. Do you know when Heidi and Little Kye will finally be able to join dad at work. I think it is great that they will be able to travel with you, especially when Kye gets older and gets to see the world other then in school books. What better education for a child then actually seeing the places where history actually took place.
Thank you for answering all of my questions, and if you think I am asking too many, please just tell me.
Take Care, Kathy
John Says:
Hello Kathy
First of all I want to thank you for mentioning that Carnival is the industry leader when it comes to providing staterooms for those with challenges like yourself. I am going to check now about the special needs cabins we have on our new class of ships and here back to you here on the blog thingy as soon as I get the information. I can promise you that Carnival continues to strive to make cruising more enjoyable for guests with physical challenges and that we depend on comments like this to keep us on our toes. We also give specific training to our service staff on how to give the very best and very specific service to anyone who has special needs and it appears from your comments that this training is paying off…………..and that’s great to hear.
The comment card drawing you mentioned involves the winners from every cruise on every ship during a one month period being put together and one name is drawn to see who wins the cruise. This means we give 12 cruises per year to 12 winners.
I am truly looking forward to the day when Kye and Heidi can travel with me ……………. hopefully that day isn’t too far away
I will be back with more information on the Carnival Dream’s handicapped cabins soon
best wishes to you and your family
John
That’s all for today ………the next ten will be answered tomorrow and even though I am behind please make sure you let me know if there is anything I can do for you by marking your comment John Please reply.
It’s great to be back on board the Carnival Freedom and after a busy Saturday waiting for my cabin and a late departure due to busy traffic in the port Captain D’Aita has us at full speed on our way down to San Juan, Puerto Rico. I spent the evening watching Todd’s welcome aboard show and marveling at what people do during the show from eating slices of pizza to talking to the person next to them so loudly that it disturbed those around them…….to some there is little difference between watching live entertainment and watching TV.
I didn’t sleep well as I had Robert on my mind. You know he was much like you. He loved Carnival with a true passion and like you he loved life and all things to do with the cruise industry. I have no idea how much money he spent cruising with me more than 40 times but I am beyond humbled that he did………..thank in advance for leaving your comments on the blog I wrote earlier today. Here is the obituary from his local paper.
CLIFFWOOD BEACH – ROBERT P. SCHNEIDER died Saturday, June 20, 2009 at Bayshore Community Hospital, Holmdel. He was 58.
Born in South Amboy, he resided in Keyport for many years before moving to Cliffwood Beach 17 years ago.
He was a Supervisor of Traffic Operations for the NJ Turnpike Authority in Woodbridge for over 30 years. He formerly worked as a Dispatcher for the Keyport Police Department and the NJ State Police.Robert served the Keyport community as both a former member of the Board of Education and a former Councilman. He also worked as an umpire and referee for several Keyport High School sports programs, and was a die-hard Giants and Yankees fan. In addition, he loved cruising, and followed his favorite cruise director John at Carnival Cruise Lines.
He was a communicant of St. Joseph Church, Keyport.He was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Emily Schultz Schneider.
Surviving are his wife, Suzann Fasano Schneider, and several cousins.
Funeral service will be held on Wednesday at AM in the Day Funeral Home, 361 Maple Place, Keyport, followed by a AM Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph Church. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday 2-4 & 7-9 PM. For information, directions or to send condolences to family, visit www.dayfuneralhome.com
Robert was booked on the Carnival Dream and I hope that his wife Suzann will still sail. If she does she will meet a very special man. A few months ago I announced here on the blog thingy that the position of Master of the Carnival Dream would be given to Captain Carlo Queirolo. And recently the Captain arrived in Monfalcone to see his new home and the ship that he will be responsible for. How does he feel? What are his responsibilities between now and the inaugural cruise? Well……..let’s find out as we continue our series of interviews with those who will be forever part of your Carnival Dream with a chat with her Master………Captain Carlo Queirolo.
1. Captain, I know we did an interview a few months ago but to refresh our memory and to welcome the many new readers to the blog can you tell us about tour life and your sea going career.I started my ship’s life in 1977 on a cargo ship. Then, after spending two years in the Italian Navy, I worked on more cargo ships until 1983. Next I resumed my studies in a college in Genoa while working on a small private yacht. In 1985, I finally started as a Junior Officer on the beautiful TSS Festivale. My career in CCL went quite fast. In 1994 I was the Staff Captain in charge of the building of the Fascination in Finland. In 1996 I was promoted Captain on the M/S Ecstasy. After that, I was in charge of the building of the first two Azipod ships Elation and Paradise, then the new building of the Carnival Glory. The Carnival Dream is my 4th new ship building.
2. So, now you have finally seen your new command and your new home ……..what do you think of her.
She is huge, she is beautiful and she has a nice back (we call stern)
3. The ship is going on sea trials and I wondered if you could tell is what sort of tests will be carried out.There will be many different tests. The two main ones are the propulsion system test which is when we will run the ship full speed for many hours and the crash stop test which is when we first run the engines full ahead (at maximum speed) and we then move to full astern to find out how long it takes, in time and distance, to stop the ship. Of course we will also be testing all equipments on board, especially the ones on the navigation bridge and in the engine room and while running full speed we will be looking for any possible cause of abnormal vibrations. We have a preliminary sea trial. Then the Dream will go to a dry dock in Trieste for the final painting of the hull after that we will depart again for our final sea trials.
4. Do you actually get to navigate the ship during these trialsYes of course. To carry out all the tests, we will be at sea for 5 to 6 days.
5. Are there any new features on the bridge of the Carnival Dream or is it basically the same as other Carnival ships.Yes, there are some differences. The main one is that all the navigation system is computerized. To dock the ship alongside I just watch a 42” plasma TV screen: amazing. The steering system is also more sophisticate than on the previous ships.
6. She is obviously our biggest ship yet. What are the challenges going to be from a navigational point of view.
Even if she is our biggest ship I do not feel there will be any major difference to maneuver it, except paying more attention of her size. As mentioned before, the main difference will be to park the ship watching a plasma screen, which will indicated all the necessary information. She is, as well, the ship with (I believe) the highest number of lifeboats: 30 + 2 rescue boats.7.Once the seatrials are over what will your job entail while the ship is in the yard. What does a Captain do during the final days before the handover ceremony
I have to organize, together with our team, the entire ship. She must be ready for the beginning of September when all crew members would move on board. I must prepare all tests and certifications: LLOYDS,USCG,USPH and all charts and publications for the new ports and itinerary. The safety handbooks must also be ready as well as the inventory and distribution of keys, lockers, etc…
8. I remember when we delivered the Carnival Glory how proud you were……..how do you feel about being the Master of the flag ship.
It is a great feeling on top of a big responsibility. But I promise to myself during those 3 months of work in Monfalcone that I will try to enjoy my work together with my team and reach Sept. 18th, date of the delivery, fresh, super happy and ready to welcome everybody on board the new flag ship.
9. You will be cruising in Europe for a few weeks and I know you must be very excited about that. What port are you most looking forward to going to and why.
All ports of our run in the GRANMED cruise are nice, but my dream is to be able to navigate close to my little village, which is? Yes right…Portofino!!!!!
10.And finally…..fill in the blanks please
Favourite Caribbean port ST.MAARTEN
The Captain who you looked up to the most as a young officer was ___CAPT.CARLO CHIARELLA__
The roughest sea conditions you can remember at sea____WAS AT FORCE 10 ON A CARGO SHIP ,ON THE NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN____
The most memorable person you have met while Captain, JOHN HEALD OF COURSE
And finally – if they were making a movie of your life which actor would play you
He should be George Clooney because he loves partying, like me. But I think that Dustin Hoffman would be more accurate for the role, because of my height.
Thanks Captain. We all wish you smooth seas and much happiness and I will see you in September. …..oh by the way…………….have you booked a cruise on the Carnival Dream yet? Everyone……..and I mean everyone…..at Carnival from Gerry Cahill on down is saying that this will be the best Carnival ship yet……….and in my opinion …………they are absolutely right.
As always in these hand over situations I can’t wait to get going as a CD again and start entertaining the guests and telling you all about some of the characters I am no doubt going to meet. Tomorrow, Jaime will arrive and we will plan for our first cruise which will be a six day to Key West, Grand Cayman and Jamaica……can’t wait.
I am sure many of the world’s rich and tanned are currently as we speak sitting in Venice at Harry’s bar drinking a Belini thingy and munching on a $90 plate of peacock scrotum risotto waiting for the arrival later tonight of the Seabourn Odyssey. The world’s most luxurious ship arrives in Venice to prepare for her forthcoming inaugural voyage and even though you and I can’t be there (bugger) we can share whets happening by checking in with Seabourn’s biggest Twitterer, the company’s president Pam Conover…………..here is her link thingy so why not pop over and immerse yourself in a world of luxury.
http://twitter.com/SeabournCruise
Well it’s nearly time for Wimbledon……….the greatest tennis tournament in the world. Todd has already received comments from guests asking if we will play the games on the big screen. Well, no we won’t…….maybe the finals but certainly not the rounds although they will be available in the sports bar and on the in-cabin TV’s.
Personally I couldn’t care less. If the weather’s halfway decent, we’re stuck with wall-to-wall coverage of the most boring game ever invented, played by the most boring athletes, watched by the most boring audience, interpreted by the most boring commentators.
And that’s when it’s at its best. It’s even worse if it rains……….and being England it will rain. Minute after minute after hour of buttock-clenching numbness with nothing happening except the occasional grunt. Strict codes of what is and isn’t acceptable to wear — and that just for the spectators. Blazered administrators with monikers such as “Bunny” and “The Major.” Players who have to sit down for a tea break every ten minutes. And the most exciting, mysterious aspect of the sport is the scoring system ……………….. advantage my arse.
I used to watch now and then to see if I could get a quick peep up Gabrielle Sabatini’s skirt or to watch John McEnroe throw his racket at the French referee ……not because he thought the ball was in……….because he was French.
What I hate most about the modern game though is the grunting the women players make as they hit the ball. Some players like Maria Sharapova emit a wail while hitting shots that seems to last longer than it takes the ball to reach the other side of the net. Sometimes her moans are loud enough to be heard back in Russia.
Why is it then that players like her and the Venus sisters need to make those ridiculous noises. I mean, look at the old players. You never heard Chris Evert or Stefi Graf make them…………..oh………actually……come to think of it ………….Martina Navratilova did grunt and moan once on Wimbledon’s center court………but that was because her opponent had smashed a volley that hit her …….. right in the bollocks.
Goodnight
John
Filed under: Destinations, Tales from the Ship, Travel, Video | Tagged: Captain, Caribbean, Carnival Dream, ship construction
Welcome Back!!! You had me laughing out loud here in Labor and Delivery today. . .so much so that one of the other nurses said, “Oh, you must be reading the blog from that funny cruise director again!” So, there I was reading your blog out loud again. It is sooooo good to laugh like that again! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Sheryl
Having just gotten back from a cruise, I’m going to answer a question you asked right before I left… Better late than never, right???
DOES WHO THE CRUISE DIRECTOR IS GOING TO BE ON A SHIP INFLUENCE YOUR BOOKING THAT CRUISE
NO, only because while we have kids in school, we are limited to the time/weeks that we can cruise. In the future, when the kids are no longer in school, then YES, I think who the Cruise Director is going to be will definitely come into play when making our decision based on the following reasons….
DO YOU THINK A CRUISE DIRECTOR CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE TO YOUR OVERALL CRUISE ENJOYMENT? IF YOU ANSWER YES…………..PLEASE EXPLAIN WHY
I always attend the first nights show and that is where I “meet” the Cruise Director. I guess this is also where I decide what I will be doing the rest of the week.
ABSOLUTELY YES… When we cruised with you, we laughed so hard, we cried. Your bedtime story to this day still makes me smile. You were all around the ship, always smiling, saying hello and available for questions.
Another scenario…
Last week we cruised with Butch Begovich and although I have cruised 17 times with Carnival, this is the 1st time I attended a Dance Class (instructor was Butch), the 2nd time I attended the Marriage Game (the 1st time being with you) and probably only the 3rd or 4th time I attended the Carnival Legends Show (where the passengers dress up as Famous Singers) all because of Butch. Have you seen him dressed up like Dolly Parton yet??? It was because of Butch, his energy, his personality, his bubbly attitude, his YAHs that made me want to do things that I have never done in the past…
Obviously after so many cruises with Carnival, its pretty obvious that I love you guys, but its also very obvious to me that a Cruise Director can change my ways… Like you and Butch, because of who you are, how you act, how you come across, you guys can make someone like me do things that I have never done before….
Oh, and my husband thanks you CDs for that… it keeps me out of the casino!!!
Hi John, I am sending you a post that was on Cruise Critic that I think you might want to pass on to Gerry Cahill since he will be receiving a letter from this person and it might very well be in his interest to answer this or to have one of his assistants answer it.
Just off the Carnival Pride 6-13-09 . Had a great cruise other than a major problem with Camp Carnival. It started with a boy (10) picking on my 2 daughters (10) the first night of the cruise in the camp.My daughters left crying. The next day the boy was being aggressive with them in the pool.Parents of the boy where never to be found. Our daughters dont go to camp very often as we are family people and dont take a cruise to put our kinds in camp 24/7. About the 3 rd night of the cruise our girls wanted to go to camp while we were at the casino.
My wife advised the counselors of the previous problems as the boy was still in camp. the counselor said she would watch. Upon checking on my daughters we find the boy sitting at the same table and our daughters wanted to leave. after leaving our daugters told us that the boy had exposed himself to them. We reported the incident and absolutely nothing was done.
We were told that they spoke with his parents and they said he was gonna be on his best behavior the rest of the cruise. If this was a school he would have been expelled for the rest of the year. I would have expected the same to happen at Camp Carnival. I dont know about you but i find this very serious and they didnt care.
I am A Platnum Cruiser on Carnival but i can tell you that Camp Carnival Needs a lot of improvement . And the Pride needs a staff with customer service skills. as we wanted to at least speak with a ship manager and we were never contacted by anyone. It kinda makes me think what would happen if anything really bad was to happen while at sea.
I will be writing a letter to the President and see if he even cares what is being allowed to happen on his ships.
Now you can see why I am not asking you to respond in your blog, but as a parent now you can see why this father is concerned.
Kathy
P.S. I just thought this one is important.
Dear John (sorry…tough to come up with an original opening),
It hurts me so that you think even for a minute that Lewis, Jaime and myself put Adam up to any sort of mischieviousness…
Take good care of MY ACD…I’ll see you in a few weeks.
All the best,
Kirk
Hi John (respond if you’d like)
My husband and I just got back from our Carnival Glory cruise, and I just wanted to thank you for arranging our ‘table for two’ in the dining room. It was so nice to be able to have that time together, and the service we received was just terrific, ……the best we’ve ever had, and this was our tenth cruise! Our head waiter was named Dixie, and she and her assistant Mauro, as well as the beverage server Dede, did everything they could to make sure our dining experience went well. Even the maitre d’ (Paul) came by our table each night to make sure everything was to our satisfaction, and it certainly was. The entire trip was just a wonderful experience, and we had a great time! Thanks again!
Lisa
happy father’s day, john – on this, your first.
thanks for all you do.
Hi John
A reply would be appreciated.
We have booked our 4th Carnival cruise, not Platinum yet, with the Carnival Dream from New York on 15 November (Cabin # 8354)
We subsequently found out that it is a Bloggers Cruise?
Kindly advise/inform what happens on a BC and how does one become involved with the special events etc??
As a recent follower of your Blog and enjoying your “extreme” sense of humor we would appreciate your completely “unbiased” response……right!!!
Best wishes
Des & Carol (Cape Town)
Hi John,
Welcome back to the Colonies. First, let me offer my deepest condolences to Suzann and her family. I’m sorry I never had the privilege of meeting Robert (unless they were on the Ecstasy in May 1992).
Your description of your flight over only adds to my decision not to fly if I can help it. Just one hassle after another – either lines, security, delays, luggage, obnoxious people, etc.
Thanks for the latest interviews from the Dream’s staff. I will finish paying for November’s cruise this week. Yippppeeee!
Has Heidi sent you a new photo of Kye? I know how hard it is for you not to see her as she changes daily.
Have a good day,
Hugs,
Carol
John. PLEASE REPLY
I wonder if you or any of your bloggers can answer my question. Can anyone that has been on the cruise with ports in Costa Rica and Panama, that can advise me if any of the tour buses have the capabilites to let you bring your scooter. My scooter comes apart and has 4 pieces if it is necessary in order to transport it on the tour buses. I know that one excursion says you can not bring a wheelchair, but none of the rest of them has any info about handicap devices.
I do fairly well walking on the ship, but embarkation, debarkation, and tours are rough if I have to walk on hard surfaces and concrete.It’s going to be harder this trip as I am still having pain from the latest surgery on my foot.
Thanks for the help
Countess Carolyn… wishing I had ugly feet that didn’t hurt.
Heidi, if you’re reading this, give Kye a ((((HUG)))) and a snuggle from me.
It’s still so very difficult to believe that Robert is gone. In the few moments I got to spend with him I was amazed by his passion for all things Carnival.
He will be terribly missed.
Here’s hoping that all is going well on the Freedom. From your video it appears that the passenger are in for a brilliant time. You’re back in your element.
I know being away from Heidi and Kye is difficult but consider how many thousands of people will have a wonderful, memorable voyage because of you.
All my best to Heidi and Kye.
Ciao, and thank you, my friend…
Host Mach
John,
As I said yesterday, I am sorry for the loss of your friend.
Earlier in the year I lost a good friend unexpectedly. He loved cruising on Carnival and that was the subject of many of our emails. He sailed on the Carnival Valor at the end of January and was happy that I was sailing on it on my back to back cruise at the end of April/May. He was anxious to see what I thought of the ship. However… He passed away 3 weeks before I left. I thought about him quite a bit on the cruise, especially since the Valor was the last ship he sailed on.
Melissa
John:
As a responsible pet owner….I would never allow my precious little Dakota to leave poo anywhere that wasn’t my property. That is why we carry “poo dispenser bags” when we walk him. We use the plastic bags that cover our newspapers every day when they are delivered. So we are not only being responsible pet owners….we are saving the polar bears by recycling the plastic bags!!
(How many carbon crappets ~ I mean credits~ do I get for that???)
Take great care of Jaime….
SHOUT OUT TO LEWIS….
I don’t know when Father’s Day is in the England…but I do hope you enjoyed the American Father’s Day yesterday.
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
Welcome back. We got home from our cruise on the Carnival Destiny Saturday. It was a great cruise and Stephanie had a nice gift for us which was greatly appreciated.
Like the Freedom ,the Destiny sailed over two hours late due to heavy traffic. Getting to the ship was a horrible mess,and the parking lot across from our ship was full and we were told to circle around many times (so many that we began waving to the parking lot attendant) until he finally said we had to go to the parking garage. It was at least three ship lenghts away and we waited in line for over an hour and a half.
just to get in the lot. Then there was no sign of any transportation to our ship so we walked -at noon- in the sun and Miami humidity! (Surely there is some way to make this better. Tampa has a fantastic system including valet parking. I guess we’ll just have to keep sailing from there and going to the same ports over and over.)
The VIP embarkation worked very well and got us on board and to the Flagship bar in time to cheer us up and get our cruise under way in good humor.
FYI: Your blogs were available in an album in the library.
Looing forward to reading about your adventures on board again soon. Love to Heidi and Kye.
Jeri and Larry
John,
Thanks for answering my question. I will give Princess a look. Was hoping that you were going to say Carnival was making a schedule adjustment for 2010 & moving Liberty or Freedom back to the Med. One can only dream!
After seeing the picture you posted of Robert, I remember seeing him on numerous cruises. My condolences to you and of course his wife. Having lost my husband way to soon, I have some idea how you both must be feeling.
Love, Joyce
John,
Happy Father’s Day.
I was reading about the handicapped rooms situtation and can tell you there are not enough of them. I needed one for our cruise aboard the Dream and could not get one, so I went with a suite praying that it will work for us, since I know that a regular stateroom will not work.
I think that the Dream has 32 +/- modified rooms with 28+/- inside ones, 1 oceanview, 2 balcony and 1 catgeory suite 11. I got to have a window, cannot stand being in a room without one, I feel so closed in, and I’m really not the one who needs it, but my son does. If I cannot get a room with a window and modified we will not go on that one, the only exception is the Dream. We had the modified suite on the Splendor last December and loved it, had plenty of room for all of son’s medical supplies, and could move around without having to move things out of the way. Carnival needs more modified balcony and suites instead of the inside rooms.
Enjoy the days ahead, wish we were on a cruise, oh well only 51/2 months to wait.
Happy Fathers Day John!
Our deepest condolences to Suzane and to you. We know if she does take that cruise, that she will be treated sooo special.
Mike & Lori
John, Please reply…
I think someone else was asking about Chef Kevin, but not sure I saw a reply.
I remember that around BC2 there was a fire at his restaurant. Any updates on what he up to these days? Did the restaurant reopen?
Thanks,
bill
ANYTIME DINING???? Does anyone know which ships are offering now? Is it in place on the Valor? How soon will it be offered on every ship?
HELP!
Thanks,
Patti
John,
Sorry for the loss of your friend. Anita and I will be sailing July 26th on the Freedom. We met for the first time on the TSS Festivale in 1990. I’m sure the ships have changed a little from then! Hope to see you in a few weeks “If you find time to shower”. Greg and Anita
John,
We had a great cruise onboard the 4/26 sailing of the Valor. Our Room Steward Dean and Servers Carlos and Martin were fantastic. Tex was informative and visible and the staff handled the itinerary switch flawlessly. There does however seem to be an issue that I have been reading about in regards to Dining Times. This is also an issue we experienced first hand.
On our sailing our cruise documents stated we had Late Seating “confirmed”. Upon boarding we were issued our Sign and sail cards and informed we had early seating. It was only after having to push the issue that we were providided with Late Seating.
Why is Carnival “confirming” these requests if they are not going to honor them?
We are sailing on Carnival Glory on 10/31 and have the “confirmed” Late Seating showing on our documents again and just want to know what Carnival’s policy is on this issue.
Also just wanted to suggest you go and visit Lobster Dave while in Ocho Rios. It will be the best plate of Lobster you will ever have.
Hi John!
Welcome back across the pond and glad you are setup back on the Freedom.
Still sad thinking about Robert but its nice that he was able to cruise so many times with you.
Great interview with Captain Queirolo.
Thanks for keeping us updated as you transition back to the world of CDing.
Take care!
David
Hi John,
My first Blogger’s cruise will be the 12/3 sailing on the Dream. I am looking forward to meeting you and sailing on Carnival’s new beauty.
I have a question, though. We have paid a higher rate to be included in Blogger’s activities. What type of things can we expect?
Secondly, some others have posted on Cruise Critic that they were already booked at the regular rate, but they are linking through here to be part of the Blogger’s group. Are those of us whom are paying an additional rate getting something extra than others? Please clarify.
Thanks and I hope you enjoyed the thrill of Father’s Day, even if you were separated from your little bundle of joy. Kye is adorable!
Hi John,
Thanks for my daily chuckle.. I have to say you are looking GREAT!!
Hope to see you in 2010!!
All my best to you, Heidi and Kye!
Debs
John,
(Please reply)
First of all, I am truly sorry for the loss of your friend. I never met Robert even though I’m not that far from where he lived. My condolences to you and his family…
I just wanted to follow up on my recent cruise on the Carnival Triumph now that I’m finally caught up with your blogs. It’s no problem in your delays in responding. You’re a very busy man so it’s totally understandable. I was able to check your response onboard the Triumph so it worked out perfectly.
First off, my PVP, Chris Fosselman, is a great guy and was very helpful in answering all the pre-cruise questions I’ve had and also helped us out by adding someone else’s booking number to our table at dinner. If I know someone interested in booking a cruise I will refer them to him in no time.
I was quite impressed with the upgrades that the Triumph got. A lot more has changed than I have expected since my last time onboard two years ago. The food was spectacular as always and I was happy to have my warm chocolate melting cake again! Our room stewardess, Lesterene (if that’s how you spell it…) did a great job in taking care of us and keeping our stateroom clean.
We did have someone from the shore excursions desk call my room and I went up there to find a brochure of the shore excursions for St. John that went into great detail of what each activity did. We ended up doing a city tour which we boarded a transit bus and explored the nice city of St. John. Our bus driver, whose name I forgot, was very professional, very knowledgeable and very friendly throughout the tour and I highly recommend him to anyone wanting to do a bus tour around the city. In fact, we even tipped the guy even though he didn’t have a tip jar.
At first, I thought I would be bored going into Canada, as this was my first non-Caribbean cruise, but I’m glad I was wrong. I would be happy to return in the future… well when it’s a little warmer as it was a little chilly at times throughout the day. The weather was beautiful though and I’ll take cold weather over wet weather anytime. I heard I missed a week of rain in New Jersey and I’m glad I did. We’ve been getting a lot of rain in NJ lately the past two months. Probably more rain than the rainforest of Puerto Rico, El Yunque!
Anyway, back to the cruise, the cruise director, Jorge Solano, was truly excellent. In fact, he’s my favorite cruise director out of all the CDs I’ve had… (I still have yet to meet you and sail with you though…) He’s extremely funny and he made the wedding show very enjoyable. The contestants picked out were priceless! He said he has known you for 20 years and that he taught you how to be funny!
Jorge gave us a complimentary gift which we truly appreciated and I was amazed that he remembered giving the gift as soon as I mentioned my name to him out of the 2500+ guests onboard. We met up personally with him after the debark talk to thank him for the gift and for making the cruise enjoyable. I hope that he gets the recognition he deserves for I did mention him in my comment card.
Even though this was a four-day cruise (since I usually prefer longer voyages), I have to say that this was probably my favorite cruise. We took lots of pictures and video to remember as much as we can from this cruise. As always, I had a blast and I can’t wait until I book again. I also loved the fact that I didn’t have to worry about a flight post-cruise as this was my first cruise from close to home.
What also contributed to this great cruise was that my winnings in the casino paid off all the vacation spending I have done. The only thing I ended up paying for was the bus ride home. Every time I cruise with Carnival, they always exceed my expectations in many different ways. If it wasn’t for college I would so book a cruise on the Dream this fall when it comes to New York City. All these interviews, photos, and anticipation are making me want to see the grandest Carnival ship of them all!
Will you be on the Dream for the 2-day to nowhere out of NYC? My apologies if someone already asked you this question. I want to try to at least book that one. Although, with college expenses it may be very difficult for me. Plus, it’s over $100 than what I paid for this recent 4-day cruise. Although I can understand… being that this is a new ship… I’ll take the cheapest room possible in order to meet you. I talk to my friends all the time about you, your humor, and your blog and they find you very funny as well.
I saw that you posted this a few blogs back and here are my answers:
DOES WHO THE CRUISE DIRECTOR IS GOING TO BE ON A SHIP INFLUENCE YOUR BOOKING THAT CRUISE
No… The price of the cruise is what I really go after. I’m always checking for deals on carnival.com. I had a great deal on this recent cruise and even though I have sailed on the Triumph before, I wasn’t going to let this deal pass.
DO YOU THINK A CRUISE DIRECTOR CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE TO YOUR OVERALL CRUISE ENJOYMENT? IF YOU ANSWER YES…………..PLEASE EXPLAIN WHY
Absolutely. Whether it’s hosting shows in the lounge or interacting with guests on the promenade, their performance can really make a difference. What really makes certain CDs stand out are signature acts that each CD has. I want to see your Bedtime Story act next! I saw the video that Big Ed posted a while back with you on the Triumph and I cried in laughter.
Anyway, I hope everything’s going well on the Freedom. I wish I was there now heading to my birthplace, Puerto Rico. I hope Heidi and Kye are doing well. Take care my friend and smooth sailing for all of you!
Cheers,
Alex G.
So sorry about Robert.
I’m looking forward to hearing about the cruise characters you find onboard this week. Go easy on Jaime ok?
I know you were missing that beautiful daughter on Father’s Day–your first one and she wasn’t with you but then it’s an American holiday isn’t it?
I know that it doesn’t matter because you miss Kye and Heidi regardless.
Thank you Captain Carlo Queirolo for the great interview. John the map that shows where the Carnival Splendor is hasn’t updated since April 24th could someone fix it please.
Another boring Ramada on a raft…YAWN..same ole same ole from Carnivore Clone Lines..
John, check out this photo posted on Cruise Critic. Looks like Robert’s been busy already.
http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1010280
John, (please reply if you can)
I am curious about the new Waterworks on the Dream. That “other” cruise line (you know the one – nickleanddimeoftheseas) has an area on some of it’s newer ships where toddlers that aren’t potty trained can go to splash in a water fun area. It isn’t really a pool for them but it’s like fountains and sprinklers and things like that. Is the Dream going to have an area like that? I have a 3 year old little boy who loves to swim and we are trying very hard to get the potty thing figured out before we cruise in Feb, BUT he is a boy and the concept is just not sinking in yet, I am afraid we will still not be potty trained and was hoping there would be somewhere for him to play too. Good luck back on ship and good luck to Heidi all alone at home with Kye!
John -(Urgent Please Reply)
Wanted to find out exactly what Carnival does on July 4th. It will be my 50th birthday that day. Can you find out from Trevor what the plans for July 4th on The Fascination will be? We will be in Nassua that day from 7am till 10pm. Will they have some kind of deck party that day for the 4th?
Don’t know if you got my other email, Please give Todd our best, best of luck to him on the Carnival Dream. We are booked for a back to back next Sept.
Take care & take care of Carnival Freedom, she is truely a great ship
Michael sends his best
Love
Cheri & Michael
John,
Sorry to hear about your friend’s passing. Just wanted to let you know that I booked the dream for June 5 2010 for hubby and myself along with some cruise newbies. We can not wait to get aboard this ship. Your blog makes everyday go just a little faster. It seems so far away. Thanks for all the information on the Dream. Congratulations on your first Fathers Day!
Dear John,
Here is something for the guys with beards to work on. I was looking at the homepage for the Carnival Splendor. Brousing down I noticed that the Dining Room and the Pinnacle Supper Club Photos are reversed as far as their descriptions. Oops! Also thanks for the heads up about the Samantha Brown special “Great Cruises” featuring the Carnival Freedom. I watch the travel channel in the mornings and watched her on the “Of the Sea” ship. Comparing the two I think that they showed the areas that the ship offered better on the RCCL special but the special she did on the Freedom really showed how much fun you can have onboard the ship. It was still great to see the ship and crew again since we all sailed on her during the first blogger cruise. I know you are back onboard her now so Iam really jealous of you right now. Smooth sailing too all.
James & Nancy
The Cruzin2some
John good to see you back on a ship and making many, many cruisers very happy.
Best to Heidi and Kye
Papanh
Dear John – Please Reply….
Hi John – Erin W. here – Hope you are having a blast being back on board the ships! What age can Kye join you on board? Hopefully really soon! First let me say that what others are wearing at dinner have no effect whatsoever on my meal or service – this applies on both land and sea!
On to my question: I am booked on the New Years Eve Liberty cruise (12/26/09 sailing) and it seems as if they have changed my ports of call…It was originally: San Juan (evening version), St. Thomas and St. Marteen. Now it seems to be doing Nassau, St. Thomas, San Juan (day version) and Grand Turk..While I think this is a great itien (im actually doing it earlier in the fall and choose this one for the difference it offers) my questions are 1. Why did they change it? The Liberty wont do the originally planned run again April 17, 2010 (I wouldnt mind doing this one but who says it wont change again…) 2. Do they not notify passengers about major changes to the ports? I mean I stumbled on it by accident trying to show someone the cruise i was taking…I mean at least people would be able to choose to go or to move to a different sailing…As I am booked both on the early saver rate with Carnival Airfare I am essentially stuck taking the cruise and will have an excellent time!! but just wondered (I called my PVP but they were not aware any changes had been made and had no answers???).
You already know who my favorite CD is (i am purposely not saying their name) and I am sailing with them in not too long a time. I usually let this person know when we are sailing but this time we thought it would be fun to show up and play a little prank on the them or some kind of riddle, trivia, etc to announce our presence…What kind of help could you give me with this? Any ideas or help setting this up you could offer would be GREAT – you know this person well so im sure you would be golden in this!! My mom is also celebrating her birthday on the sailing but you cant wish her a happy birthday without tipping off the CD – right?
Last Question (Can you make this part private as not to tip anyone off? I have left my email with the post for a reply if possible
Thanks – Erin W.
John – Please Respond
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Robert Schneider. He was a character and will always be remembered by many who knew him.
We just returned yesterday from another week on the Splendor from Long Beach CA. This was our 6th time on board since Sept. 1, 2008 (Baltic, Med., Caribbean 2 Times, South America Leg2 and West Coast). This time we went to Astoria, OR, Victoria and Vancouver BC Canada. We had a great time and this time we took a Penthouse Suite 7297. Quite different then a normal stateroom and we enjoyed the large space/jacuzzi tub and Bidet. However, we really missed Ken Byrne as Maitre D.” Ken is like you and brings a certain “penausch” to the ship and makes the cruise a better experience. We said hello to Brad and his sidekick Matt. If Goose came abaord in Vancouver as scheduled, again we never saw or heard from him? The Brad and Matt morning TV shows were not on par with yours. They lacked the spontaneity and playfulness you bring with the task.
I want to make it known that Carnival should add this itinerary to the normal rotation for a ship on the US West Coast. They should include San Francisco and Seattle as ports. The US Northwest ports are ideal cruise stops and have much to offer especially during May to Sept.
Sorry to see you missed being home on your first Father’s Day (June 21) with Princess Kye and Heidi.
Jo reminded me to mention that she still wants to see photos of a “JUNIOR TUB” whatever that is from the Dream. We are booked on the Nov. 15 (NY) and Dec. 3, 2010 (Port Canaveral) sailings.
Also I never heard from anyone concerning the question about the use of On Board Credit. Was it “EVER DISCUSSED” by any of the higher management in meetings?
Best to you and hope your enjoying your time as CD again on the Freedom.
Dave and Jo Myerly