I had woken at 5:00amish that morning because, as most diabetics will tell you, the call to the bathroom usually comes very early and as always before heading back to bed I had a quick glance at my Blackberry and saw I had lots of e mails all from the PR department at Carnival and from other senior beards. All of them contained the words Costa Concordia and instructions to call Miami ASAP.
I turned the TV in the bedroom immediately to Sky’s 24 hour news station and honestly I could not believe my eyes. No, this wasn’t real, this couldn’t happen. But it was real. The Costa Concordia lay on her side, the hull ripped open.
This is a very difficult blog for me to write. You know I was accused by some heartless sod on another cruise site of taking this incident “too personally.” Well I did take it personally. I am a crewmember, a brand ambassador, and mostly I am someone who loves the cruise industry, so you’re bloody well right I took this personally. It’s a difficult blog to write because I have to be careful what I say because there are so many unanswered questions and I certainly don’t want to speculate but what I do want to do is write how I feel about some of the things that have been written and said.
I have been a sailor for 25 years. “A sailor” I hear you say, “you’re not a sailor you are a fat chap that stands on stage and tells stupid jokes.” Well yes, that’s true of course but I am first and foremost a sailor and please allow me to explain why I say that.
When I first joined Carnival in 1987, in addition to my training as a bar waiter which consisted of me being handed a tray and a menu and told to go serve slippery nipples on the Lido Deck, the safety training was much more intense. The training was summed up by a statement that I will never forget and in fact still remains true today.
The statement was made by the then safety officer and now one of Carnival’s senior captains, Angelo Los, who told us new crew members “before you are waiters, before you are dancers, before you are anything, you are seamen.” Now obviously there is the comical side to that because before we are anything we are……….well you get my point I am sure. But the serious side to this is that whether you are on a ship with a big X on the funnel or a ship with a climbing wall or a ship with a red and blue whale tail, the crew all have one thing in common…………they are sailors and while they are there to serve and entertain you, before that they are there to help save your life in an emergency.
Apparent reports from passengers on the Costa Concordia and reports in certain media outlets have questioned where the officers were when guests went to the muster stations – instead of seeing officers, they claim to have seen dancers and chefs and waiters and photographers.”Where were the officers” shouted one female reporter with huge hair and a spray on tan?
In an emergency, officers are normally on the bridge, in the engine room and at the location of the issue, trying to manage the situation at hand.
This is very important for everyone to read and understand. I hope that you never ever have to muster with your lifejackets on but let me say that if you do, the crew are all trained in safety procedures and how to care for our passengers and that is our foremost concern.
God I am so angry when I see news reports on CBABNBCNNFOX that provide no context or information on how much the crew care and how heavily our industry is regulated with regard to safety standards. A truly knowledgeable cruise industry safety expert should be sitting on the couch with Whoopie Walters and the other women – someone who can explain about what it’s like to be in an emergency at sea and how the system works so that people sitting on their couches at home understand the safety record of the cruise industry.
When I look back at what happened on the Carnival Splendor I do so with pride because every single crew member did exactly what they were asked to do. They did exactly what their training had taught them and they did it calmly and professionally.
I have taken the Costa Concordia tragedy very hard. I also know that our captains at Carnival have taken this very hard as well. Some are worried that our guests will think that the stories told about the captain of the Costa Concordia are stereotypical of all Italian captains. The captains’ concerns are of course understandable but not necessary because we all know that Italians are brilliant captains and that they are great navigators and that’s why so many cruise lines trust them to be in command of their vessels and have done so for many, many years.
We can only watch and admire the efforts of the Italians during the recovery efforts, as well. The efforts of all those who helped bring passengers to safety, and the kind people of Giglio who have opened their doors to complete strangers, is truly extraordinary. It is also hard to imagine the conditions these brave divers are facing.
Is cruising safe? That’s the question that some are asking. All the cruise lines are proactively reviewing their safety procedures. However we must remember that we already adhere to the strict rules and regulations put forth under international maritime law and our industry has a truly exceptional safety record. Meanwhile the crew will continue their training each and every week. Practice drills will be held, crowd management classes given and inspections by Unites States Coast Guard, Lloyds of London, port agencies and other organizations will be carried out.
In the 25 years I have worked for Carnival I have seen the sea in every mood and I am
here to tell you that yes, cruising is safe. Statistically, cruising is one of the safest vacations you and your family can take.
I mourn those who died on the Costa Concordia and I feel such grief for the families who still wait for news on those yet to be found and my prayers and thoughts will remain with them.
It’s not fair of me to speculate about the Costa Concordia but I believe that the Costa crew saved the lives of many passengers and fellow crewmembers. So on behalf of every crew member working in the cruise industry today I would like your permission to say this: I believe the crew performed their jobs and saved lives.
If any of the crew of the Costa Concordia are reading this, let me tell you that you should be proud of the job you did.
They were sailors and stayed at their stations and did what their training had taught them to do under very challenging conditions.
Costa Concordia crew ……………….you are heroes.
John
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HereHere! Very well said John. There were tears in my eyes. It’s a shame that people will base their opinions of a whole industry on one event or one person or one misconstrued “fact”… Keep smiling and keep sailing!
PS: I don’t remember the name of the captain on our Jan 8th-15th sailing on Valor but we met him a few times and he was very kind and very friendly. I trust him and all the crew for Carnival with my life!
Thank you for doing all that you do!
John,
Yes, I do believe the crew of the Concordia (whether food server or showroom dancer) did what they were trained to do. Kudos to them all.
And I as a cruiser did take this personally as well.
I agree with you and well done to the crew that managed to save so many lives. I have cruised a few times and participated in the drills before leaving dock each time and never questioned where the officers where as I knew they had there jobs to perform. During the entire drill we were giving direction and instructions by other crew along the entire way.Every landing we went to or stairwell had a crew member directing you to your station. It is very sad about the lose on the Concordia but this does not change my mind on cruising. I would like to say keep up the great work to all crew members on every line, we appreciate everything you do.
Thank you John. What a brilliant blog. You just made me cry.
Amen John and God bless.
My heart aches for everyone involved in the Costa Concordia tragedy. My husband & I and many extended family members are frequent cruisers, and we sail knowing that the crew has been well trained for all sorts of emergencies. The death toll could have been much higher, but the crew did the best they could do considering they were faced with 4000 panicked passengers and a captain who seemed to have left them on their own. I read of a crew member from Peru who was seen giving his life vest to a passenger, and did his best to assist passengers, but sadly did not make it himself…that is sacrifice. I believe one day we will read of the heroic actions of this crew and officer staff, and the news media might be forced to actually give the recognition that these brave men and women rightfully deserve.
Peggy
Dear John,
What a thoughtful and wonderful commentary on this tragic situation. I only wish to echo your words as my own, “Costa Concordia crew, you are heroes”. As a cruise-lover, and as an artist who has many friends in the cruise-performance industry, My heart breaks for those affected by this tragedy. Blame cannot be pinpointed to any one individual- the very essence of a tragedy is the level of chance that comes in to play.
I will be cruising on the Carnival Ecstasy in 18 days to celebrate my 30th birthday. I cannot wait. I will always stand by Carnival as one of the greatest ways to vacation.
Thank you, John, for being here in good times, AND in bad ones.
Thank you for your thoughts John! I just hate that the media always brings out the worst in every situation and doesn’t give credit where credit is due! I agree with you! The crew were heroes that day and I hope eventually the media will tell their stories truthfully!
Brilliantly said John
AMEN! It’s about time someone acknowledged the crew and all that they did. Wish someone could get this out to the biased media!
I’m Very Sure all the below deck crew members, Wait Staff, Room Attendants, Engine Room, & a some of the officers ETC, Did many noble and heroic acts that day and I hope those stories come out soon so they all don’t get painted with this wrong brush the press is using,….However as for the captain and his 1′st mate,……I Think at least those two, are looking quite bad,…..But the rest of the crew most likely did everything thay could and should be thanked in some way.
John, God Bless You for your bold and heartfelt comments about this tragedy! The crew aboard the Costa Concordia did save lives, and did the best they could under the extreme circumstances…the media needs to pick-up on the courageous crew members that stood at their post and ushered confused passengers into the boats. As a former sailor, I too was shocked when I saw this news. I was actually on a cruise on assignment at the time and found it difficult to believe something like this would happen to a modern cruise ship.
Well said. We too, mourn the losses but will continue to cruise whenever possible. (((hugs))) All we can do is trust that God will heal our hurts.
b
Dulcimergirl
Amen, John – the news media does NOT understand that the entire crew is trained the way they are for emergencies – they find it more exciting to report sensationalism. Folks who are screaming ‘where were the officers’ should be thankful that the officers were where they were supposed to be (for the most part – eternal shame to the captain!), running the evacuation from their posts, and that the brave crew, including waiters, dancers and the folks who work in the gift shops, were calmly doing their best to save lives. I have nothing but admiration for the crew AND the officers of the Concordia – things could have been so much worse. I look forward to my next cruise.
all the best,
Kate
John,
As a cruiser, I am, of course, concerned for the safety of those of us who have disabilites in the event of a situation such as this. I know crew members are assigned to assist us. But during all the drills I have attended no one has come to me to say, “I am assigned to assist you and this is what we will be doing.” They have come to me to ask if I could climb the stairs and told me that someone would assist me with that, but no one has come to be with me during the drill. A lot of people are saying we need to go back to putting on life jackets and reporting to the lifeboats. Maybe, maybe not. But I do feel that some changes should be made in the way the drill is carried out in regards to those with disabilities, if for no other reason, but to set their minds at ease.
Also, one of the changes I feel should be mandated for ALL ships are ramps for those with mobility issues. These would also be quite useful in the normal everyday operation of the ship.
I,of course, am saddened by the sinking of the Costa ship and my prayers go out to those affected and to those families who still have loved ones unaccounted for.
I firmly believe the crew was heroic in their actions with exception of the captain and some of his higher officers. And like Forrest Gumpp, “That is all I am going to say about that.”
I know my remarks may be considered those of a “troll”, but they are valid concerns that need to be addressed.
Lyn, I can not speak for anyone else, but IMO, your words here do not come off as a troll. Your concerns are valid and real. Yes, someone should give special instructions regarding disabled passengers. BTW, I am not disabled but I may be one day as anyone else mat be.
Lyn, well said. I use a scooter onboard. Ramps would be good. If we needed lifeboats I have no idea how I would get there.
I agree, Lynn. My husband is disabled but we love cruising and take both a scooter and walker and cruise about once a month. When I saw the disaster of the Concordia, and saw what people had to do to save themselves, I knew immediately, that we (my husband and I) would have been two of the dead. There’s no way my husband could have done what was neccessary to save himself and I would have stayed with him to the end. Usually during drills, the staff just tell us we can stay in the hall or sit in a lounge during the drill and then leave early to catch an elevator before they all get filled up. They have taken our name at these drills but there is no explanation as to how we would be rescued during a real emergency.
John, wonderfully written blog. 99% of the human race understand why this is personal to you. The other 1% are heartless creatures who think a football game is more important than a minute of silence. As for the media coverage, it’s all about the ratings, they don’t care if what they report is accurate. While it is possible that not every crew member did what they were suppose to do, (it had to be just as scary for them as well) it sounds like 99% of them did. Well done crew members. I know the next time I board a cruise ship I will feel just as safe as the last time I sailed.
Amen Cindy!!!!
Cindy, I agree with you 100%…John, we leave in 10 day to sail on the Conquest along with my niece and her family…We can’t wait and I know we will be safe and have a wonderful time…You and all Carnival crew members are what makes this industry have the dream vacation for all….Thanks for your thoughts…Carolyn Dickerson
myself i to think the crew did a great job and of course your going to get everyone on the ship to complain their lives was put in danger all they are thinking is getting off they wasnt looking around to see what the crew was doing and you cant shun all captains because one was a coward like john says all the info is not out yet and i dont think there was anything wrong with the ship people try to compare this with the titanic but its nothing like the titanic most people got off concordia and half the people on titanic died the concordia was yards from land where the titanic was miles away from land the titanic is miles at the bottom of the sea concordia is resting on the rocks and can be salvaged so no its not like the titanic except for the gash in the side of the ship cruising is safe and the best vacation you can take for the price
I have been on 10 cruises and I have always been to the muster drill. Each time the crew members at the stations were very professional and serious-as it should be, safety is a serious thing. Watching the passenger videos of the incident, you can see the crew members doing their job, trying to calm frightened people and get them moving in an orderly way to the lifeboats. I love cruising and I can honestly say I have always felt safe. Thank you John for your heartfelt and honest opinions, now, in the past and future.
Your blog was very well written. None of us knew what really happened until thousands of interviews are documented. How great so many survived is the main thing. I’m sure all the cruise ship lines are sorrowing over the mishap. Thank you for a caring comment.
Bravo & well said John. Thank you to all the crew of the Concordia for your bravery & dedication to ensuring the passengers safety. I would also like to see every resident of Giglio given a free cruise for their kind hearts & hospitality.
John is there already or can we set up a fund for the crew to donate money to help them re-coup any loss of earnings & personal belongings?
Many Ex-crew members would like to help the Concordia crew out & we have set up a fund-raising page on facebook but dont know how to get the money to the crew affected. Please advise xxx
Great idea!
John
You done a wonderful job writing this. I have been on 12 cruises with Carnival and have always felt safe. However on my one out of Jacksonville last Oct, I do not think the safety drill was good as it should have been. Other safety drill were made right at the Muster Stations you should at, this one was done in a longe. Thanks John for your works of encouragement.
Amen! I was screaming at the TV every time we had the reports of passengers saying they weren’t seeing any crew. Of course they weren’t seeing officers, they were a little too busy to be out among the passengers, but they were seeing crew! Dancers, waiters, stateroom stewards, THEY ARE THE CREW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Okay, I have been wanting to scream that from the mountaintops since this happened and I am so glad that John has done it for me. Thank you, John Heald! You are indeed a sailor as well as first being a, well, you know.
I agree they were heros and I know they had to be terribly frightened too. There have been a couple survivors that have also said the crew did what they could to help. I’m so sad for those lost and their families.
Thank you John! It is about time someone stood up for the crew members of the Costa Concordia.
I am getting tired of hearing the media trash them. I have been on several cruises (including your last cruise on the Triumph, before you got married). I plan on continuing Cruising, this incident well not stop me. Love to Cruise with you again ~ You make cruising enjoyable.
I believe (but could be wrong) During our drill aboard the Carnival Ships, we didn’t have officers present, Our sections included the Camp Carnival staff. <—- Told this was typical in a real emergency.
I was on the Carnival Dream last week when the news broke. Our ship also observed a moment of shocked silence and I can assure you there was only quiet contemplation from the crowd. No one had a negative reaction to the request for a moment of silence. It seemed totally appropriate.
Thank You, this is one of your best blogs yet, because it trully comes from your heart.
I have cruised with Carnival 8 times (and will continue to do so) and I have never felt safer.
I have express my thought to 20/20, as well as cruise critic for their negative coments on this tragedy.
John, well done blog. I’m not a swimmer, but I am NOT scared to cruise any day. Prayers for those who lost their life to the sea.
Diane Fielder
John , these comments you have given are excellent and very true. Although I have never been a crew member on a cruise ship I was in the US Navy and on the USS Kitty Hawk
when it caught on fire and in the Navy as on a cruise ship everyone has a job and when in crisis it is amazing how you draw on that training and do exactly as you were trained. I believe that the crew members on the Costa ship did everything as trained. God bless them and all the passengers
ABC’s 20/20 broadcast , which was supposed to be about the Concordia, was nothing but a slam on the cruise industry, especially carnival. I am appalled by the played up displays of wild crew parties, and drunken out of control passengers.In our 10 cruises , we have NEVER witnessed this behavior on the ship. I only have praise for the hard working crew members who have waited on us hand and foot. We shall continue to cruise, as we love to, and probably watch the news somewhat less. Thank you Carnival for the wonderful cruises we have taken. See you on the Triumph in October.
John I agree with you 100%!!! Even though I dont understand a few things I know that cruising is still safe. A group of us has a cruise planned in late April and we have no apprehensions about cruising!!! This will be my 11th cruise and my 6th with the old red white and blue. We are also going to put a deposit for a cruise in 2013 aboard the Breeze!! People need to stop with ignorance in this situation. Its just like 911 everyone blamed complete nations for what a few did and its simply not fair. Also I have cruised with you on the Triumph many years ago and you are a delight!!!
Hear! Hear! John! Amen to this blog!!!
I read yesterday that an Italian musician on the Costa Concordia wearing a Hard Rock Cafe teeshirt was working and helping the passengers get to safety. At the end, he got into one of the last lifeboats going to Giglio when a little child was handed down into the lifeboat. The Concordia musician/SEAMAN got out of the lifeboat and let the child have his spot. The musician/SEAMAN gave not only his seat, but he gave his life for this little child. Amazing. Thank you, John, for today’s blog.
fantastically put John
Your blogs are always well written. In fact it was your “smoke on the water” series that started me following your blog. Yet this one is the BEST written so far! You really are a fantastic brand embassador for Carnival.
THANK YOU for putting into words what we have all felt since the tragedy. THANK YOU for having something on the web now that salutes those heroes of the Costa Concordia rather than the negative publicity they have been receiving, and especially THANK YOU for being truthful and giving us something to look forward to each day. YOUR BLOG!
Not having worked in the cruise industry but just a lover of cruising, I took this incident personal as well. I know that cruising is safe. Personally I’m much more nervouse about flying in an airplane than cruising. Seems like the media has forgotten about airline crashes and the safety of airline travel. I get to cruise in about 5 months and I even get to get married aboard one of Carnival’s amazing ships. If I didn’t think I was going to be safe, then I would cancel everything. But I’m not planning on cancelling anything! I can’t wait as a matter of fact to get married and to cruise. John, I think you have showen exactly how wonderful the Carnival family is. This is why every cruise I’ve ever taken has been on Carnival. And I don’t plan on stopping.
Not for nothing John, but this is pretty “corporatized”…no outrage for the emoployee who told passengers to go back to their cabins and wait for more instructions…as the ship was sinking!!! Or how about the “we have had an electrical failure”. C’mon…don’t be that guy John. You were better simply being silent. This was not the Splendor. It was not handled with anywhere near the same level of professionalism or thoroughness of what you and your team did on the Splendor. Had it been the same team on the Concordia..no doubt no lives would have been lost. So your outrage at the press…perhaps should be better directed at a captian that is clearly giving the industry a very big black eye. I must say I was looking forward to what you were going to comment about this incident because I usually agree with your veiwpoints. Understand you gotta do what you gotta do for the company you work for. So maybe your silence wasn’t an option for you. Either way, I’ll keep reading and keep cruising but know that there will be a lot of people that will think this response from you is a sell out.
I don’t think John was excusing those crew members who did NOT do their job, as much as he was giving credit to those who DID! Yes those who did not are giving the industry a black eye, but many of the crew members did what they were supposed to do, and likely saved thousands of lives.
Thanks for the comments, John. My husband and I sailed on the Dream when it was knew and met you for the fist time…our commonality was the S.A. we walked onto the Dream again last Saturday and were thrilled that we were led in a moment of silence for the Concordia. We have the highest regard for the staff and have saled ten years with Carnival. We will continue to believe it is one of the best vacations we can take for money. We are now planning a group cruise for next January on the Liberty!
Hi John, I don’t know you respond to these people day in and day out who think it’s Carnival’s fault that this tragedy happened in Italy. I have found over the years the first news that is heard whether correct or not people will make their opinions on the first reports even though they were not there. In my police career I saw it everyday. Thanks for keeping us all informed
Well said,John, WELL SAID! I know this has been hard on you because you are that kind of fellow. The crew of the Concordia had the extreme of extenuating circumcstances to deal with-it wasn’t a textbook ‘lower the lifeboats’ event. I have sailed on Carnival 5 times and sail again on the Pride in October. I will sail again and again (budget permitting) and will do it with complete ease of mind regarding my safety. Hugs.
Hi John,
Very well written. I too believe the crew were heros. I hope they will all come back to work with their heads held high. They should!
From my husband and I, thank you to all of the crew that works so hard. From giving us a spectacular vacation, to being there when we need them during such horrible times!
Thanks again,
Steve and Stephanie.
Very nicely said!!
Dear John, I just want to tell you, that I agree with you 100%, As a former employee of carnival i can say that we were trained to cope with every possible emergency situation, I take my hat off to the crew of the Concordia, there were over 4000 passengers and crew on board and the result could have been much worse. The staff and crew did everything possible in an impossible situation.
Very well said John
Very well said, John! My faith in Carnival has not waivered through out this nightmare. I have never had a reason to doubt Carnival’s crew and that has not changed. I just today, booked my 4th cruise and I can’t wait! Can somebody please make the calendar days pass by more quickly?
John,
As a former crew member with another line, a lot of friends, family and coworkers have looked to me for answers to their questions. I, too, agree with you that the crew did their duty. 3200 passengers do not disembark themselves during a tragic event. On a daily basis, I try to explain to the uneducated the process of cruising, from the pleasure vacation to the behind the scenes. I also, now, have to educate on safety. A coworker has never cruised and after the accident, said she would never cruise. Through education, she has learned that it is still a safe venture and has admitted to being open to the cruise vacation. It is easy for those of us who love cruising to be frustrated with the media’s one-sided view of the situation. However, it is also up to us to educate those without knowledge. I feel that you are an ambassador for, not just Carnival, but cruising in general. A lot of us are. It us up to us to continue educating those who are not as educated and beat down the negative images and lies that the media has created. I and my family will continue to cruise the rest of our lives. May all of us never have to face a water emergency. Thanks John for being you.
Well said.
Very well stated, John!
Beautifully written John. I too feel that cruising is one of the safest vacations available. I am looking forward to my next cruise in February with no trepidation.
This will be my 14th and if I have one comment about the safety drill – I felt that having a muster station on the Lido deck was not as serious as in some of the other areas. People were eating and drinking and paid little or no attention to the crew. It was the second time I had seen this on the Inspiration and both times I thought that if an emergency did arise would most of those people know what to do?
I love Carnival and I will continue to sail with them as long as I can. Counting the days until I board the Carnival Magic!!!!
Thanks for all you do.
Irene
Well said and beautifully written. I agree with what you have said, and for those of us that have cruised we know how safe it is and how hard the crew works at making sure we and the ships are safe. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
John blog well written. I expected it to be long but felt it was perfectly written. I too truly believe that every crew member including the captain did what the could to save lives. I dont blame a one actual person for this tragedy. I blame society as a whole. Alot of times we are not just happy with the simple pleasures in life. We want things to be bigger and better and that is why we make alot of our bad. I may be one of the very few that would sail with the captain of the concordia today and my reason is one I do not blame him and two he has learned the most valuable lesson any sailor or captain could learn.
John, well said. By the way, you’re beautiful when you’re angry.
John,
Hear, hear; well spoken.
Nimia and I will be joining you again this summer, this time on the maiden voyage of the Carnival Breeze. We have always felt safe and secure on all of our cruses with your exceptional cruise line.
Hi John, BRAVO! I agree with your well written post. The crew must have been wonderful to have got that many people off the ship in the time they did. I sail on Carnival at least twice a year & will continue to do so knowing that the crew are going to take care of me, no matter what. They work hard to make sure every person on their ship has a wonderful, safe vacation. I love your blog. You give so much of yourself to those of us who follow you. We can tell you love your job & the people who sail with you! And we love you too!
John this was very well writen and you are a sailor your love for your ship your company and the cruising industry is apparent. As one of your many followers I have seen you love for the cruise industry many times and you are loved for it. Now on to the Costa incadent I agree every crew member that did their job undr those trying circumstances should be applauded and are hero’s. I was on the Conquest when it happened and I have been asked if it made me nurvous I told them no i knew I was in good hands and I love cruising as much now as I did before the accident. So John you should be proud of your self and all that have made strides to make cruising as safe as it is. Cheers John and keep sailing.
John,
I can’t even begin to think how difficult these last weeks have been for you and everyone else at Carnival and company!
It is so sad for the families who have lost loved ones and our thought and prays are with them.
I can’t believe people have gotten down on you for taking this too personally….”I” take it that way! I’m a VIP cruiser and love cruising with Carnival and my hat is off to all of those crew memebers who did what they were trained to do….it could’ve been MUCH MUCH worse if they hadn’t stuck to their training! And John,when I think of how relatively YOUNG they all are and how scared they must have be….you are right to call them “Heroes!”
Stephanie Murray
John:
Lots of folks that I see every day know that we are avid cruisers. And “is cruising safe” has been their first question.
Personally, I thought this was an odd question, since most of their jobs require air travel.
So I asked them, is flying safe?
If we are going to live life, there are inherent risks that we accept as part of the deal.
Sadly, there are those troglydykes in the world that will put the worst “spin” possible to advance their own agendas.
True travelers will see through this BS and those that don’t…should stay at home.
Thank you to the Carnival officers, staff and crew who not only have provided soon to be 50 cruises, but provided a vacation that was fun and safe.
Linda (Mom of your friend DJ)
My first thoughts, when I heard people complaing that the crew at the muster stations were waiters and dancers, were ” Of course they were!” That’s their job. They were where they should have been, doing the job they were supposed to do in an emergency situation, and should be commended for it.
Well said John. As a safety professional and 15 time cruiser I know cruising is safe and that the crew is there for safety. Like an airline stewardess, they are there first and foremost for safety not as a waiter. I too wish the news outlets would hire safety experts to report on the disasters that happen rather than political correspondents and such. The accident willnot dampen my enthusisam for cruising.
Bravo Johm,
Well said!!!! I also salute the brave crew members that held their post and saved so many lives that could have been lost if they had not acted so steadfast to their duties. It is in many way a tradedy, but in so many other ways a testiment to the seamanship and dedication to duty of the crew.
On a lighter note…I’m currently on the Legend, and I must tell you that every cruise(this is number 11) I take with Carnival contains a new adventure…this one is no exception. Out first Chef’s Table…not to be out last. Last night was an experience that went way beyond our expectations. Chef “Panda” was the most gracious of hosts. From out first introduction he made everyone feel like one big family. Needless to say the food and it’s presentation were an treat beyond anything I have ever experienced before. And, what made it so special was Chef Panda’s joy in shareing his years of experience in both his personal journey to becoming a chef and his joy of cooking. The Chef’s table will become a “look forward to” experience on our future Carnival cruises.
One more thing…one of our table mates for the cruise is Richard from Essex. He has said that he knows you and wanted me to say hello…..and wish you and your family well in your new living quarters. It appears that for a time you were living in his daughters home. There….I’ve done it.
Cruise on…Bob
why had this ship not conducted a safety drill???
This was my exact question. It is unfortunate that it was not addressed.
Wade, It’s my understanding that they have 24 hours from sailing to preform the safety drill. They had oly set sail for a few hours when they ran aground.
Hi there. They all had boat drill, except for passengers who had boarded at Civitavecchia 2hrs before and were supposed to have the drill on the next day.
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Another Brilliant Blog John and especially so was this particular blog. The thought you put into these words and the heartfelt feelings you have shared I am positive are appreciated by all – especially this cruiser. I know some will disagree and that is their right, but I am very positive that the Concordia’s crew carried out their duties as without hesitation. Irregardless of the cause, all should pay attention and attend the Muster Drills. I know I will and I will also know how to get my muster station from wherever I am on the ship, I will know where I can get a lifejacket if I can not retrieve mine from my room, my wife and I will have “meet-up” should be be separated during an emergency, etc. We can all learn from mistakes made – I know I can. But for now like you, my thoughts and prayers are with the families that have lost loved ones whether they were crew or passengers. Thank you John.
John, while even one life lost is too many, you can’t help but think that if the crew had not done their jobs as trained there would be many more lives lost. Everyone has to realize that since the ship was on it’s side that half of the exits and lifeboats were lost. I just wish that ALL forms of travel and entertainment practiced their safety drills like those on the cruise ships. I know that everyone in the cruise industry takes their jobs very seriously. Those of us who do not work in the cruise industry do not understand all and everything that the crew goes through to be prepared for such emergencies. John, we love you because you do care deeply and take it personally! I would not want to travel with anyone you really didn’t care!
Thank you Sir!
very well said John, i believe 99% of the crew did the right thing. lets not forget some of the missing and dead are also crew members. of the 49 cruises i have taken i have ALWAYS felt safe. oh by the way i can’t swim. I am looking forward to my next cruise in sept on the Freedom and i plan to make a point in finding the capt. who i’m almost sure will be italian and thank him for the job he is doing…..Hang in there john
John you are so right in what you say, I felt very safe when I last cruised and I know that this August when I cruise again I will still be in good hands when it comes to safety. I work on a car ferry for a living and know all to well the drills the crew must go through and the on going tranning they must have. Alot of people bad mouth about things they don’t even understand and therefore should not say anything. The crew of the Concordia would have been putting there own lives on the line to save so many they didn’t even know, and they should be thanked very much. To all who would bad mouth about things you don’t know about shame on you. Carnival and it’s companys are a great bunch of people,(well trainned) people.
Thanks for a great blog John. I can truly understand how you would take this personally. I felt personally touched by the tragedy simply because I have cruised on similar vessels. My heart seemed to drop in my chest when I saw the first image of that majestic vessel on her side. My kudos also to all the crew members who saved thousands of human lives.
Beautifully written John…and I know it was hard to write, especially with all the media misreporting that has been going on since the loss of Concordia.
I have many friends in the Costa crews and will be joining Costa Classica on May 1 in Dubai…there will be many hugs and tears when I meet my old friends. The tragedy has hit everyone hard, whether a regular passenger or crew, we are all family and when family members get hurt or are killed doing what they love, then the whole family hurts & mourns with them.
The people of Giglio went above and beyond, as did the crew aboard Concordia in what must have been the most frightening time in their lives…they are all heroes and the memories of that night will stay with each and every one of them forever.
Those who never made it off the ship will also be remembered forever…a hole has been made in everyone’s hearts.
Thank you for putting into words what so many of us feel, John….
Well said Mr. Heald , Bravo.
I agree with you 100%
I don’t listen to the mainstream media and everyone must know that in a situation of such depth and magnitude one must know the crew of the Concordia did everything they could to make sense of everything and ensure their survival as well as the lives passengers and their valiant efforts to save lives as turmoil and chaos spread like wildfire within a matter of seconds , its a horrible tragedy and a shocker to the cruise industry as a whole.
Thankfully most of the passengers and crew were able to escape unharmed and the ship was only a stone throw away from the shore.
I feel your pain just as anyone who is in the industry would feel about , the news should not make a spectacle about it nor should they make reports based on factual and credible evidence and not fabrications , tabloid materials and a sea of lies and deceptions that insult the intelligence of those in the industry and the general public.
You have brought up many good points ,
cruising is safe and it’s the best vacation to take.
People should not live in fear but live in caution and prepared.
Well stated John.
I am still looking forward to the next cruise which will be on the BREEZE with YOU… you have said all you can say and most of us DO understand. and that tiny (maybe 1%) that do not is not your fault. like the old saying goes you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make it drink… well you state the facts but you cannot make that 1% believe.
I still say more accidents happen on planes than on ships, more accidents happen in cars than on planes… and even more accidents happen in ones own home than in cars. so it is safer to be on a ship than in ones own home IMO…
Thank goodness you’ve said what I was shouting at every incompetant journalist on the t.v. What a great job they all did – in the dark? at an angle? dont know how I wouldve coped but, as a crew member you just do dont you because, as you said, you are there for the guests – for their pleasure, comfort, entertainment, pleasure and above all, their safety. Nice underpants
xx
Dear John,
The news on TV is based on sensationalizing everything. If it sprinkles in California the TV stations will show pictures of the worst areas and sound like that is the case everywhere. I am sure they have done this in the case of Costa ship and the people I work with knowing that I love to cruise ask me if I will go on another cruise. My answer is always yes without any hesitation. This was an unfortunate incident and like you said I am sure the crew did everything possible to save lives and once again put the passengers first. They are so incredible and I join you in comending their actions.
The Cruzin2some
John, I thank you for writing this. I know that when I am aboard a ship the safety issue is one of the least of my worries. I have seen the drills in action. I have felt safe from the moment I board to the moment I get off. I have never liked the return trip to port, humm wonder why. My happy moments are over! I too pray for those lost and the families who suffered this tragedy. The people who write anything negative are always going to be there.
You are a great Ambassador for the company and I send my thoughts and prayers to you and yours as well. I understand how hard this is for you and commend you for being so brave when bravery is hard. You are a wonderful friend and look forward to the day I can sail with you. I too, am a sailor.
We have sailed with carnival seven times and are booked on two more cruises. On each of the times we have sailed before in Europe, as well as the Carribean, we have noticed that the crew has taken the safety of the seriously. We look forward to cruising again with Carnival
John, we can tell how hard this was for you and it’s certainly understandable that you have taken it to heart. It was upsetting to all of us that cruise. I totally agree that you are safer cruising than flying, driving your car, or walking across your street. I for one, will pay more attention to the safety drill when I cruise next month on the Liberty. Prayers to the all the families, crew, and everyone involved in this. Thank you for the blog and all you do on Facebook.
Very nice blog. Unfortunately far fewer people will see this than the television reports, and those that do are mostly experienced cruisers that already know the professionalism of the crews. I spent 20 years in the military and even with all the training we get there will be those that panic during an emergency, especially when there is no guidance from above. I’m sure some of the crew did panic, just as I’m sure most did their jobs to the best of their abilities. I have no worries about cruising (I’m more worried about my safety driving to the port) and I’ve already booked this years cruise. We’re going with a couple that’s never been on a cruise, and their not worried either.
John: Submarine Dude here … I spent over two years in school before I ever reported to a Sub. It was not until I reported to a Sub that I was told … Number one is not what your schooling is about, Number One is that you are on a Sub, you must Qualify and learn every aspect of the ship (actually subs are boats) and Safety and survival of all is what it is all about. I have seen, prior to a cruise on the Pride, between quest changes, the drills. I have watched other cruise lines docked next to us, while in port at St Thomas, go through drills, I have heard on Carnival Cruises of drills while we were in ports. Although I have questions about the Costa incident, I DO NOT DOUBT THAT THE CREW WAS TRAINED WELL and knew what they were supposed to do and did it. I hated having do drill, drill, drill about situations to the point it became part of me. But that the time spent doing the drills when I could have been doing something fun became a recreational response in the time of need. Things go on with the crew when it comes to training that the guest have no idea about. When things go okay .. they do their assigned job. When things go wrong … their training becomes an automatic response and they do as those, what is believed at the time, contionous time wasting drills, kicks in. As a person who has experienced the drills drills drills that interrupted my time off, my sleep, my fun … I, as said, hated it. But when a emergency happened I was one happy camper that I could do what I was supposed to do without thinking. I do not doubt that the Crew of the Costa where hero’s in their jobs. I, like you, ask the public to consider the fact that, as guest, to trust and believe that the person that cleans your rooms, delivers room service, serves your food in the dining room, that is seen cleaning the passageways in the middles of the night, and all other members of the crew … when it comes to your saftey .. THEY KNOW MUCH MORE ABOUT YOUR SAFETY AND THE SHIP THAN YOU WOULD EVER KNOW. It takes a crew of, on the average, of 900 to take care of the guest. It only takes one person or one malfunction of the ship to cause an incident. Why this happened it yet to be determined. But HIGH HONOR AND PRAISE NEEDS TO BE GIVEN TO THOSE WHO DID, WITHOUT QUESTION, THE JOB THEY WHERE TRAINED AND DEDICATED TO and PERFORMED HEROICALLY! People just need to try and understand … They are on a floating party ship the with a guest population 5 times the size of my home town. TRUST THEM, RESPECT THEM, AND FOR GOD SAKE ENJOY THEIR SERVICE AND FEEL SAFE!
Your words well spoken ever word true I cruise all the time!!!!!!!!
Here, here John!
Mistakes were obviously made – it really doesn’t matter who it was – and changes will be considered, and possibly implemented. It doesn’t change the fact that the vast majority of passengers left the ship safely. It also doesn’t change the fact that there are at least 16 people to be mourned. I would still rather be on a cruise ship than on an airplane or in a car, because those types of accidents happen daily, and an accident of this magnitude is unusual.
My husband and I were on the Destiny and returned to Miami the day after the tragic accident. Neither of us feels that we will avoid either cruising or Carnival. We enjoy our time, we feel safe on the ship and in port, and it’s a worthwhile use of our money.
I just want to say that I agree with you completely,the crew are heros. The crew was there doing the job of the captain. Its the captain who failed to do his job, and the captain who created this disaster, NOT the crew.The entire crew should be praised for the job they do everyday and the compassion they showed during this disaster! God Bless those lost in this tragedy, their families, and the crew.
John
You have likely seen a short clip taken by a chopper during that tragic night. You can clearly see by the night camera passengers congregated at some emergency points and to evacuate using ropes and/or rope ladders.
The general impression is one of an orderly evacuation.
My question! Why was this ship captain allowed to remain in the employee of your company? I have heard the stories of his past actions. Are they true? I have sailed with Carnival in the past.
Well said, John. My heart and prayers go out to everyone aboard that ship, passengers, crew, officers and yes, even the Captain. May you all find peace and comfort.
Suzanne
i am leaving on 2/25 for my cruise and i am not even concerned with the safety. i trust that all of the crew members are trained and you can’t listen to everything that is on TV these days!
i am excited for my trip and i am sure will book more in the upcoming years!
thank you John for your words and as always, your blog is the best!
John (Please Reply),
I just want to say Thank You for keeping a level head in all of this and providing yet again that calming voice the we all want to hear.
For those of us that will be sailing in the near future, do you have any suggestions as to how we can give our support and show our absolute confidence in their abilities for the Captain and his crew that we will be sailing with?
I am looking forward to my Milestone cruise on BC5 in 38 days. I can’t wait to be back and show my support.
Bravo John, Bravo! And to all the Costa crew members that did their jobs to the best of their abilities, I say thank you!
Well put, John! The Concordia was a tragedy. The Concordia was an accident. It was a tragic accident. Having just returned from back-to-back cruises on the Carnival Paradise this past Monday the 23rd, we know first hand how seriously Carnival – and the entire cruise industry – takes safety, both passenger and crew. While docked in Tampa between the two cruises the Captain announced that the National Guard and local police were conducting training/dill exercises on the Paradise. In Cozumel during the second cruise, the Captain announced – and then we watched – that lifeboat drills would be taking place and that all Paradise crew were to report…etc. This was something we had heretofore not experienced. The way the crew conducted the drill was nothing short of a well choreographed or syncronised dance! We have a whole new respect for the Captain and crew and their dedicated committment to cruising safety!
john,
i like you and others are heart broken for the passengers and families of the Costa Concordia……the problem with the media is that they say what ever they think will bring more attention to them forgetting that this actually was a real human tragedy and people are hurting……..
i have been on many cruises and have always felt safe and i will continue to cruise…
i do however feel that the muster drill would be better if it were held in the theater where people might pay more attention if they weren’t lined up five deep where they can’t see or hear what is being said…
john thank you for all the good info you share and for all the laughs i get from your blog…… will you be on the Breeze when it is here in miami ??? i am looking forward to cruising on her when she comes to Miami..
Blaming the cruise industry because of the act of 1 person, is like blaming the auto industry because of a DWI driver. Both the Captain and the driver did something they shouldn’t have.
Well said John well said!!!!
Roger T
I think you’re full of crap and are sugar coating this. I guess those passengers that said they had to maneuver their own life boats are a bunch of liars. Passengers said the crew was nowhere to be found. While I am usually a pro John Heald fan not today. I think you are covering for a bunch of cowards. The true heroes were the passengers themselves. PERIOD.
the crew members were trained and did their jobs well, they had the passengers ready and almost all of them got off the ship and we do have to remember that it was also crew members that we have lost not just the passengers. I will sail on the Magic in 2weeks and I will thank the crew and captain for the job they are doing for all of us and will remember the heros of the Costa
I agree with you John. All of the cruises I have been on, the safety has never been a concern to me. The crew are all awsome and fully compitant. We do the muster station practice right away (even though many grumble about it) and then enjoy the week. I am getting onto my Carnival Glory this sunday and I am not worried about the safety aspect of the cruise one bit… Mabey the trip from the airport to the cruise terminal in Miami but not the cruise itself. Keep up the good work John and keep cruising!!! Mabey I will get to sail with you one day.
John I have read articles on the internet that have Praised the 3rd officer and crew for their Bravery. The fact that over 4000 people were save with the ship lying on it’s side is a fact the somebody was at their station doing their jobs as they were trained. Too bad some of the passengers behavior couldn’t have been train as good as the crew was. I agree the crew was Heroes and deserve to be recognize for their actions. I know when I am on the Dream Feb 25 that I will treat the crew with respect because I know that they will do their duties in time of an emergency.
Well said, I agree 100%. Some people just forget to let out the clutch and engage the brain before speaking or writing. Others are just plain mean. Thankfully most of the people in the world have enough education and wisdom to understand how things really are.
John, I’m going on the Conquest Sunday. The last time on the Conquest, the cabin safes required a card with a magnetic strip. Has the Conquest converted the safes to the numeric keypad yet. Those are so much nicer. Thanks
Amen my friend. As my mentor the late great Paul Harvey used to say on ABC Radio “And now you know the REST of the story.” Good Day Mate.
Wonderfully written blog! As always, you are “the great communicator”. My heart goes out to you & all those affected by this tragedy.
John, Your blog today is heart felt as well as informative. Many people know I love cruising and have told me how they will never cruise. I explained that this was a tragic situation. When something horrible happens there will always those who make matters worse with their negative views.Mostly views which are given as “a news story” & have no knowledge of what is required of the people who provide the services on a cruise ship, especially during a emergency. I have and will continue to cruise. This incident was tragic accident. God bless all the sailors who do what they do.
Bravo for the great job done by the crew of the Costa Concordia and you John for speaking out on their behalf and on the behalf of all concerned cruisers!
The “media” has for the past apx 20 years has gotten away from reporting the news and fallen into the deep dark pit of tv ratings and advertising $$$ and 24 hour a day news channals, so it is no suprise to me that the media will take any statment from any person and report it as a fact without any effort to validate the story. The captian of this ship has been professonaly destoryed by the media and at this point what we may learn about this accident in the coming weeks and months will not be reported with the same enthusiasam as the negative reporting of the past 12 days.
Steve
john, your story was well thought about before you sat down and wrote it,,i thank the lord that just a few of the passengers died as a result of this most tragic accident. yes the capt was at great fault as he said himself that he took risks to allow his passengers the chance to get the photos and see the sites up close..i, too am a sailor with a cruise line and i can tell the public that cruising is the safest industry and should be regarded as such. the crews are well trained and at great length to insure that all safety nets are in place at all times. we have often over 3000 to 4000 passengers lives plus crew lives to think about and that of the vessel. this was a terrible mishap and an error in judgement i believe,,but through it all the crew of the concordia did exactly as they were trained to do and made sure that no passenger was in serious harms way during the evacuation process. i pray for the families of the missing and those found dead, may god hold them in his arms and comfort those left with questions as to how this actually happened.
John, This needed to be written. The media always has brought the most dramatic accounts to life and always will. However, common sense should take over and make people realize that evacuating a ship with 4200 passengers in 1.5 hours does not happen on its own. An operation that size has to be conducted, and will always involve panic and confusion. Although tragic that lives were lost, you are correct in saying it would have been far worse without the crew of that ship doing their jobs. Also, thank you for doing yours, which you do awesomely well!
Hello John, I agree with you on every single part of your writing except when you said ” I believe the crew performed their jobs and saved lives” Yes, it is true, there were alot of brave crew members, but what is the point when the captain abandons ship before all others and can’t even be put back on board by the coast guard. Schettino is a fucking idiot. I believe he should be put to death for his actions. Even I feel embarrassed myself for the other Italian captains because I know 99.99% of them are a real “Captain”
Amen.
Well Stated John ……
Very well put, John. I have been on 13 Carnival cruises. I have witnessed several cruise safety drill while in port.
My wife and I had embarked on the Inspiration the day the accident was announced on CNN. It was sobering to all; but the educated 99% recognized that this was an aberation and there was much more danger on the Los Angeles freeways getting to the Port than we would vever face on the cruise ship.
On Sunday, the Italian Captain came on the speaker and with an obviously emotional moment asked the entire ship for a moment of silence for those who lost their life on the Costa Concordia. For about 30 seconds, you could here a pin drop on the Inspiration.
We currently have 5 Carnival cruises booked. Our only regret is that we will have to fly to three of the ports to board the ships.
I agree with you that the crew of the Costa Concordia are heroes. Will Costa honour them in some fashion? Will there be a ceremony at some time in the future and if so will the general public be invited to attend (whether in person on via the internet)?
John,
I have admired your work for a little over a year now and I am impressed with your honesty and candor. I too feel that the crew of the Concordia are heroes. I have seen the pictures and videos and in none of them do I see any of the crew panicking or leaving their posts. On the contrary they appear to be calm and collected. I don’t know how I would do in the same position.
John wonderful blog. I for one listen to every muster drill instruction given on every cruise…yes all 7 of them and will on the 8th also. The crew who hold the muster drills are very knowledgeable, they see folks from different walks of life and make them understand the importance of what they do before we cruise. Poeple need to think…when you get on an airplane the ladies and gentlemen who serve our drinks and give us pillows and blankets also give us a drill before the plane takes off…well that is their job to make us aware. I for one will listen attentively and follow the orders of the crew…news media…go on a cruise first before you talk about what you don’t know about. I also am sad that many died…I am going to wait before I say who is to “blame” for when the final report comes out we will know what exactly happened. Sorry, John…I had to get it said.
Amen!
Thank you for your post. My family and I have been cruising for many years now, and so many people have asked us this past few weeks whether or not we’d still take cruises. Now I have to say that I am NOT a Carnival fan, especially after our cruise this past December. That said, do I question whether or not I believe I am safe on a Carnival Ship or a Royal Caribbean ship or any one of the dozens of cruise lines? Not in the least. How people act in a situation such as this is in direct proportion to how they have been trained, and I have to say that we have been impressed with virtually all the lines we’ve sailed with. I don’t know the whys and the wherefores of whatever happened on the Costa ship, or why its captain was wherever it is that he was. Until this man makes a full statement in public, I will choose to believe that he is where he was supposed to be. If he was not, then I firmly believe that his cruise line and the maritime courts will deal with him appropriately. Do I believe that there will be a coverup of major proportions? No. From what we have seen of Costa’s parent company, Carnival, they will deal with it all as openly and as quickly as possible. It’s what they’ve done in the past, and I feel it’s how they do business. So, while we won’t be sailing with Carnival again in the future, it certainly won’t have anything to do with what happened on Costa. We wish everyone who experienced this horrific incident nothing but the best and trust that their next cruise will be nothing but great fun… because that’s how cruising is.
Anyone who would be offended by this blog has no heart. I commend you John on your restraint concerning the media. I whole-heartedly believe all crew members are very dedicated sailors and you have a right to be proud of them. I will continue to sail with Carnival every chance I get.
John…I suspect when all the hearings are done we will find Costa probably failed. There have been too many reports (and I distrust the media) that the crew wasn’t proactive in getting people off the ship and some of the passengers (at least) had to find their own way off. There are exceptions though…a junior officer has been credited with saving many lives and I believe the Chief Purser was also instrumental in saving lives.
Do I trust the typical Italian Captain? You betcha and I hope they realize most of the cruising public holds them in high regard. Speaking only for myself I cannot and will not judge an entire group of professionals on the actions and poor conduct of one.
I’m cruising in April on the Spirit to Hawaii and I have full confidence the Captain will have our safety as the number 1 priority.
as a navy vet of 14 years any crew of any ship will be proud to put there self in harmway to help or save any ship mate or passengers crew of the Costa concordia job well done
As you may remember John (dunno how you manage to read all the comments and emails), I worked on the Caribe 1 in 1993. You are 100% correct, crew are seamen and then waiters/plumbers/sparkys/slot techs etc. It was serious back then and I am sure it is still serious now.
Various of the people I worked with back then got hauled up in front of the Captain (Dometrious Flackos) for a stern bollocking for not doing something right.
I have complete confidence in Carnival Corp to keep my family 100% safe during our next cruise, coincidentally booked the day before the Concordia tragedy, on the Triumph of the Seas in February.
I only worked the ships for 6 months, but the safety training and SOLAS has stuck with me for the rest of my life, I was proud to be a member of such a close knit family who could protect, entertain and feed/water the lives of 2300+ souls on board.
The media makes me so mad. Yeah, so they only saw dancers and chefs. But guess what? That’s who they were supposed to see! Do people really think an officer is going to escort each person to a lifeboat?
In these situations, the #1 goal is to save lives. However chaos, uncertain, scary, and traumatic it may be, the #1 goal is to save lives. I am so extremely saddened by the deaths and the missing, but out of 4,200 people on board…I think the crew did EXACTLY what they have been trained to do, save lives however they can to the best of their abilities, regardless of who was on the bridge.
A lot of my friends have been asking me if I still plan on cruising. Yep, I have 2 cruises booked this year and no plans of stopping. If anything, I almost feel safer. I can only assume that the crew was as worried about themselves as the passengers were. Yet they still managed to get 99% of the people on board to safety.
Hats off to them, I would sail with that crew anytime. And to all the Italians, who have opened up their homes, and to the divers risking their lives to search for others. Anyone who is going to paint all Italians as a result of what happened is just not seeing the bigger picture.
Well said John I’ve cruised with Carnival 11 times, am cruising tomorrow and am booked on the Breeze next February. I will continue to cruise with Carnival. People ask me if I’m worried about cruising and I tell them absolutely not. I love Carnival and I know how hard they train their staff (my daughter works for Carnival). Keep up the good work John.
BRAVO AND AMEN…as usual well said my friend.
John :
Well said John i hope many will agree with you. They put their lives on the line to save others Bless them all. Bless you for speaking out !
AGREED!!! AGREED!!! AGREED!!!
As you know, Mrs. MTSFP and I are good friends with John & Diane Botley – for those who do not recognize these names, they are musicians who we befriended on our first Carnival cruise and who have been entertainers on seven of our ten cruises.
As we have talked with John & Diane, often at embarkation, they have always been critically aware of their responsibilities with regards to the safety briefing. We would often meet them before departure only to have them excuse themselves to “tend to their duties”.
I know in my heart that the overwhelming majority (read 99.9999999%) of the crew on the Costa Concordia performed their duties in accordance with their training and that these duties saved lives.
They are to be congratulated and celebrated as the heroes that they are in fact.
Jonathan S. Ketcham
aka STILLmissingthesmokefreeparadise
John,
First let me say thank you for writing this. I found you on FB, then found you here on your blog.
I’m an airline employee. I think all of us in the travel industry feel a kinship with one another just because of our industry. We understand what it’s like being a way from home, travel etc. We also know that every day, every minute, every second, it’s always about safety first.
I personally am glad you took the incident of Concordia personally. All employees of the cruise industry should I believe.
I can recall with a vivid memory of being at work on 9-11. I do not work for an airline of those airlines who were physically involved with that tragedy, but as an airline employee, we all were involved. I remember being so relieved when we had received confirmation that all of our aircraft were safe and accounted for. Others were not so fortunate, and we prayed for them.
I do however, remember one evening while I was at work, we had a terrible tragedy happen involving one of our aircraft. I cried. I was not on that plane, I knew none of the crew and I did not know personally the victims. But I felt heartbreak. I still remember the name, a/c # etc involved. I often think of the people involved, but especially of the family the tragedy personally affected and J.W.-I think of him most. I take it personal! It’s my company, my industry. My heartbreak. I was neither directly or indirectly involved, but I’m tearing up just now thinking of little J.W. and how sad I am for him and his family. How we all were.
So yes, take it personal. The greatest tragedy of all would be if we never learn(ed) a lesson from a mistake(s) and made things safer regardless of the why’s and how’s that got us there.
Again, thank you for your post.
Thank you for allowing us into your thoughts on this tragedy. I think during any disaster when human lives are lost there are too many times when people look for someone or something to blame, hopefully eventually the media circus will end and the truth will prevail. I have no doubts the crew did the absolute best job they could in assisting all passengers to safety, if they didn’t give a damn as the media has speculated a lot more lives would have been lost. I have always felt safe on my Carnival cruises and this isolated incident will not deter me from sailing again and again.
Thank you John, I imagine this was not an easy article to write. Most regular cruisers realise this is an isolated incident and also the safety guidelines that are onboard the cruiselines. We at no time at all considered cancelling our cruise this year on Breeze in October and when people have asked we have defended Carnival and many other meditteranean cruise lines we have used. Again thank you for this article, I think the media and a lot of other negative people should read it.
Well said.
We think the crew did a marvelous joo considering the circumstances. Some of them may be lost as well. The whole story is far from over as for being old exactly what went wrong and who is to blame. We have sailed on almost 30 cruises, are coming up on our 12th with Carnival with you on the Bloggers cruise in March and feel completely safe to board the Magic and expect to have a wonderful time. I am sure you are hurting a lot from all that has been said and from the sad situation that it has been. Just as most people were able to fly again after 9/11 people will be able to continue cruising. Hopefully some of the cruise lines will have learned lessons from this tragedy and people will as well. Looking forward to seeing you in March John and hopefully we will get to see your beautiful wife and daughter as well. Heidi was just pregnant with Kye when we last sailed together. Love and Hugs from two very loyal Carnival cruisers (and I am a travel agent and still plan to sell a lot of Carnival if people ask). Barb and Joe Dombrowski
John, I (like many I’m sure) have hurt for your hurt. I am so sorry for your grief and in some small way so many of us grieve with you.
}
I don’t have a wonderful “warm fuzzy” statement that’s going to make it all better. I have read your thingy for several years and this year is the first that I’m able to attend the bloggers’ cruise. I very rarely comment which sometimes makes me feel like a stalker. But, I know that you’ll get several ignorant comments on this subject from the trolls that you have come to love. So, I wanted to take up a space and say something positive. Chin up John. You do a great job and you represent the Carnival brand well. There will always be “negative nelly’s” out there and they must be truly miserable people. We can’t wait to see you in Galveston in 39 days!
Candace (also Mom of DJ) {for Linda
Well said, John. I couldn’t agree any better. The media doesn’t know what they’re talking about most of the time and will stir up any drama they possibly can. I am truly confident about our safety when cruising and this tragedy hasn’t changed a thing with us. In fact, two days after the accident, I made an unexpected stop at my travel agent’s office to pay off our cruise in May! I look forward to sailing on the Carnival Legend!
I agree with what some people are saying here as well. The chaos may have been Titanic-like onboard but not the circumstances. Just ignore the people that want to bash you. They don’t know any better. I continue to keep those affected by this tragedy in my thoughts and prayers. I am constantly checking on the news sites for all the latest information possible and I praise those crew members who did help out in saving lives.
-Alex G.
John
Well said. I appreciate your thoughts. I know you hear this often but you were CD on our first cruise in 1999 on the Triumph (gave Bubba some jewelry) and we are going on our 11th cruise this April. Someone ask me a few days ago if we would still cruise. I said without a doubt. If I stop cruising because of this sad event, I might as well not fly, drive, walk across the street or eat seafood. The media will die down and the industry will survive because of word of mouth from cruisers who know the truth. Best of luck, John
I’m writing this to you John, but it’s in hopes that others read it and think about it.
I’ve only been on 7 cruises…all Carnival and all since Jan 2010. On my last cruise (liberty dec 3) I made a conscience decision and effort to SEE the crew and passengers. You see, I’m one of those people who don’t people watch, form options of others, or judge anyone. I go about my business, acknowledge those whom I interact with and am always considerate and kind to all I can be. I appreciate ever effort Carnival staff puts forth for the benefit of my fun and relaxation, but I’ve never really SEEN them. This time I did. I SAW that the nice gentleman with the ASK ME t-shirt, who helped me and mom in the hall, was also working in the Casino. I saw that the very nice woman who gave us our muster instructions was also in the entertainment department. When mom needed assistance I saw that the person who helped her was also a waiter. I SAW that the crew on the ship weren’t JUST someone who held one job. While leaving muster I SAW that those people who were telling us that they would be right there to help us in an emergency WEREN’T just evacuation/ emergency crew…that EVERY member of the crew WERE the evacuation and emergency crew. That no matter what happened, no matter where I was, no matter what type of crew member was near me…THEY would know what to do, and do it. Even my stateroom attendant was trained …we asked. I SAW the crew, not just my “servers of fun”. I know there aren’t many of us that actually SEE. But I plead to anyone who has any doubts to SEE, on their next cruise, who and what is around you. I’m still deeply sorrowful for the lives lost, the crew chastised, the company marred, and the traumatized survivors. This will not deter me from cruising as it has been the safest, most relaxing, and most enjoyable vacations for me. I also KNOW that if there is an emergency, my chances of survival are great compared to other things, such as car accidents, because of the trained staff and the safety precautions in place.
IF the captain made this choice on his own, and caused this accident…no one nor the company should be blamed. No one can be completely controlled. We are humans. I saw video of the crew lady telling people to go back to their stateroom, that it was just a generator problem…but don’t blame her…she was only relaying what she was told…Before judging, take a step back and think. Think of your experiences. Think of your actions / reactions. Think about all angles. Most of all….think about those lost and those unfairly slandered.
It may be a little late,but since you are back in the states,maybe you can offer to sit down with Whoopie, or do an interview with the media. You are well spoken and I think you are the one to tell the crews story. Love to you and yours, Jenny
John, I can understand how you took this incident personally. I did too as i was on board till the morning of January 13th. As a witness of the last cruise I can tell you that the crew was overworked, did the best they could as far as service is concerned in an overcrowded ship but they did not feel or act as sailors. Their salaries have been cut recently many were totally inexperienced, on their first contract. The only emergency drill was on 07th Jan and that was not taken seriously. All the pax that embarked after that had no idea where to go for the boats. That so many survived is a miracle, although I believe that the crew, wonderful as they were, did all they could and knew but were not prepared for what happened that night.
I while back you were asking if a bit more levity should be added to the muster drill. At the tine I thought yes, liven it up, crack a few jokes during muster so it’s a more enjoyable experience.
Since the Costa tragedy, I think I have reversed my decision. The Costa tragedy has been a huge reminder that muster is for a very serious purpose. So I now think pure professionalism is the appropriate way to conduct muster. Short, serious, to the point—then have someone blow a whistle, ring a bell, and have lots of crews come by with drinks and snacks and start up the music. It’s time to get serious about having fun!
i am very sad for you john. being under the gun like this is awful and does not help your diabetes one bit. bear in mind there will always be people who get their rocks off by negating everyone and thing! what happened was tragic. there are those like myself who are extremely realistic and are cognizant somethings are just fated. may god let rest in peace and care for their families left behind. you do a great job and try not to beat yourself up re ignorance. have a great day and looking forward to breeze in august :0) lil
John,
I feel like you said it all here in this blog. Your thoughts have been my thoughts all along. On Mar. 23rd I will be aboard the Fantasy and I will walk up to the crew and Captains and let them know how appreciative I am of them. My prayers are with you all. My thoughts and prayers go out to the families as well.
God Bless
Robin @the Beach in SC
John, I agree with you. there are many untold stories here, all hiding behind the horrible headlines. they should have some sort of warning about dangerous courses when a ship enters them. Both my wife and I are anxious to cruise again with you and Carnival. Best regards, Gary and Patty Hollrah
John,
(Thanks to common friend Bryan Otter for forwarding your excellent blog to me)
Having experienced my share of Emergencies, “incidents” & calamities in my 34yrs as an international airline captain, I have full admiration, praise and respect for ALL the crew of the Concordia, who obviously worked most selflessly in very trying and unforeseen circumstances to bring thousands of panicky passengers to safety at a minimal casualty rate of less than 1% of 4200. Not forgetting that the team was temporarily ‘leaderless’ when the captain was apparently MIA after his blunders.
I leave it for wiser counsel to judge him.
The public in general and the mercenary media corps in particular must realise the
enormity of the disaster in darkness and passenger panic, and appreciate the courageous, mind-boggling efforts of the ship’s crew who rose to the occasion and did what they were trained to do. Your sensitive blog certainly highlights that aspect and draws kudos for the heroes. Marvellous.
Mz daughter worked for Carnival Cruise lines for 3 years. The professionalism, training and outstanding work ethic that is passed on to all new crew members (sailors), ensures that in emergency situations the safety of the passengers on board is the number one priority. Shame on the press for being so critical and thank you John Heald for clarifying the situation.
Of course we take it personally, when one has a loved one who chooses a “life on the ocean wave”, it is at times like these we pray for those mourning the loss of their loved ones, and thank god that it is not we who are left trying to come to terms with such a huge tragedy.
John,
What a heartful and sincere blog. It is unfortunate we sometimes have to take a tragedy and learn from it. First, I think the crew on the Concordia did indeed do an amazing job saving lives and they should be commended for their bravery. I also do think that many passengers expect to see the officers at a time of of an emergency but unless they are informed at their muster station during safety drill, maybe that is one less report we can prevent CBSNBCNNFOX from falsely reporting. It’s been awhile since my last cruise, age is playing a factor on my memory and I do not recall if it is announced during that time if all the sailors who passengers are to expect to see during a crisis?
That is a very good point. On past cruises I did listen to safety drills and I don’t remember it ever being stated that uniformed crew would be buisy with keeping the ship afloat so the support staff are trained to help passengers get safely off the ship and pass along information from the Cpt. and command structure.
Maybe that should be emphasized.
Well said John. Bravo to those brave crew members!
Very well said! Context, or lack thereof, is a huge weakness in the media. Hopefully most past and potential future cruisers will take a few minutes to think for themselves and wiegh media reports accordingly.
Dear John:
This is a great letter and I share your feelings. I have taken offence to other cruise lines which are sending out e-mails telling everyone how save THEIR cruise line is and how experienced THEIR captains are. Well, I hated seeing that. I would have appreciated more a letter of support and condolences for their FELLOW COLLEAGUES at Costa. I have fired off a letter to both cruise lines voicing my displeasure. If a plane goes down all the other airlines don’t start advertising that their aircrafts are safe. This tactic has certainly left a bad taste in my mouth. And the press…OMG is there any respect for anything anymore?
Thank you John, for voicing the feelings of so many FELLOW cruisers. God Bless.
Carla
Thank you for your blog. I was a ‘sailor’ for 9 years (I was CD for many of those and as such in the event of an emergency my duties would have been on the bridge to the end) and got so angry listening to the speculation and the ill educated comments in the press and on TV. I join you in the salute to the Costa Crew and all those sailors on the seas. I wish you smooth and gentle seas.
According to news reports all the passengers are to receive $14 400.00 for psycological damages and luggage lost during this incident. What about the crew members aboard? these people lost alot more than a couple pieces of luggage and are offered no compensation (according to news reports). These people accumulate a greater amount of valuables while on the ship as they spend much longer periods of time on the ship. These Crew Members risked their lives while passengers passed them bye to safety… What gives? where is the crew members compensation for their heroic efforts?
ANY time the media or anyone else paints 1000+ people with the same brush, they’re wrong. Anyone who say “the crew” did this or “the passengers” did that is just taking an anecdote or two and assuming the same happened everywhere. The fact that over 4000 people evacuated safely means that many crew members did their jobs well.
We’ve heard stories of great heroism and stories of great cowardice. We’ve heard stories of passengers who panicked and made the situation worse and stories of passengers who assisted others. I’m sure there were plenty of examples both ways. You learn what kind of person you are when you go through a crisis like that. My sincere sympathies go out to those who lost loved ones and my hopes are that through the investigation process lessons can be learned so others wont suffer the same in the future. My fears are that the investigation process is more about liability payouts than preventing future deaths and therefore lessons there to be learned wont be.
Thank you, John. Having been on board during the Splendor fire, I can say that I have the utmost confidence in the crew’s ability to follow their training. Like many, I have my opinions about the actions of a couple of single people, but the crew as a whole was in as much danger as all of the passengers and did the best they could, Im sure, in the situation. This is a HORRENDOUS and sad accident that could have been avoided in the first place. My prayers go out to every single person affected.
Beautifully said, John!! To all of us who have family in the cruise business, this story was a heart-stopper! In my personal experience, I have seen nothing but the highest level of professionalism from crew members and all who make sailing their way of life. Thank you SO-O-O much for pointing out the lives saved by their diligence. Wherever the blame lies, it should be addressed directly and specifically, without painting everyone with a broad brush. My heart goes out to everyone who was involved. Thank you for your thoughtful and compassionate musings!!! ‘Preston’s Mum’
John. All I can say is thank god for you and your honesty and if anyone thinks this is just you spouting corporate garbage then they are wrong. I am an ex crew member for Princess Cruises and was a Bar Stewardess for three years. The safety drills we had to do on a regular basis were thorough and efficient. We were not only tested by group safety officers but also by the US coast guard on several occasions. Thank you for standing up for your fellow crew members. I am standing there with you. Side by side. Julie McIntyre
So good to hear something positive come out about this tragic situation. I agree, well said! May all out thoughts and prayers stay with those who have suffered a loss or are still waiting to hear about their loved ones!
Here’s to the staff and crew of passenger ships everywhere!
Well John, there are a couple of differences between Concordia and Splendor. You were on Splendor and Concordia is lost. Not all the facts are known yet …all the best going forward from here. Certainly I’ll cruse again.
Great blog John. My family will continue to cruise because we do believe it is safe and the best vacation we can have for our $. We trust Carnival and have proven it by sailing with our children. God Bless John, for all you do.
Hi John, live from the Carnival Fantasy. Having a great time. Met Ugly Craig today. Now I can put a face with the name.
Great blog today. I, too, have been upset with the media about the Costa ship. The wrong information out there is crazy.
My prayers are with all.
Your fan and friend, Lynda
Took me a while to catch up with other work and wanted to check in with my Favorate Cruise Director from The Carnival Glory few years ago. I wanted to say that everyone did the best job they could at that last minute and I am glad today that the death toll was not as high as it could have been. Furthermore, I am glad its calming down its not the first thing you hear anymore so things are getting back to normal as flying and cruising on the safest modes of travel.
To All,
Sometimes bad things happen to good people. Sometimes good people do bad things.. Let’s be mindful that many lives were saved. People are not statistics but do the math. The crews worked diligently and swiftly to save many live. As for the captian the facts will come out. I did watch a family that was on Dr. Phil and they did speak about the chaos and the lack of leadersip while getting people off the ship. Remember the crew can only do so much.When people in times of distress become self serving and lack passion and consideration for children and those disabled its how they were raised..
Did the family exagerate those facts only they know, those who were there.
I have sailed on Carnival manny times and will do so again. I have the highest regards for the crews. GOD has already taken care of those who lost their lives.
I live in Italy, in Sicily. You could imagine how I feel watching every single day the scene of Concordia. Let me tellyou that a lot of people could have died in this accident, but if they are still alive it’s because Costa Crew Members are there, assisting the passengers. People didn’ t recognise officers just because many of them didn’t have the uniform. Unfortunately, the television always shows the negative side, and errors, but does not tell much about the officers lowered the boats being hung in the air. I agree with you dear John…if anybody did a mistake..well the law will work for that..but now I want to thank everyone who avoid this to be a terrible and worse tragedy.
Excellent words John. I’ve noticed that when we go to our muster stations the crew know exactly where what, where and when everything is needed to be at that time. I’ve always been impressed with the professional way that the crew does their job and thus helps us in case something wrong should occur. Your words came from the heart and that is why I have to worries when Mary Lou and I go on a cruise with Carnival. Thank you all from the bottome of my heart.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
HI John i sailed on the magic in summer 2011 it was relly good but now because of costa my mum wont go on a cruzie ship again but the staff in the northen lights were kind, they new what to suggest so tell them that and by the way what ship are you on now
thanks john
from jack (im 10 and i love your website)
Wonderful blog. I can tell you really wrote this from your heart. It helped me to see the situation from the point of view of the crew. Keep up the good work!
John,
If we had any doubts as to the safety of these boats we would not be on one. I can see that the crew is well trained. During the muster drills they are very professional in the way they present themselves. The training is obvious, with the relatively few deaths that occurred on the Costa Concordia. Yes, one death is one to many, however it was amazing to see a ship that size with that many passengers on board with so few casualties . That shows that your seaman (sorry had to do it) know what they are doing. Please thank them for all of us because someday they my be here to save us.
Steve
Hi John,
My family will be on the Freedom in February. We are looking forward to our cruise and are not worried about safety at all. I figure that now is probably the safest time to cruise since safety is foremost in the minds of everyone. And thank you for noting that the majority of the crew did a great job on the Concordia.
John,
I know that being the brand ambassador and also a current cruise director gives you a very unique view of all the happenings in the industry. I have had people ask me if I still plan to cruise on our February 19-26 Carnival Magic cruise. My reply, “ABSOLUTELY!!!!” And to make it an even better cruise, we are honored to have you as our cruise director. I look forward to the excitement and enthusiasm I have heard is John Heald. I am convinced that the cruise industry, as a whole, is very safe. With that said, there will always be accidents. Accidents are part of life and unfortunately sometimes part of death. If we go through our days worrying about when the next accident is going to happen to us we may as well wrap ourselves in bubble wrap and hide in a closet. Life happens and for the most part what makes it worth living. We never know when we will take our last breath so I think we should make every breath count. You are a credit to Carnival and the fact that you mourn the lost and applaud the rest makes you the perfect “Brand Ambassador”. Bravo!!!!
Well said John…
first of all we are all seamen and such us we have the highest respect for every seamen…
Crew on that ship made a great job and surely without much of coordination from above…
They’re real heroes..
Hi John
All the best to you and your family. Hope our roads will cross again sometimes in the future.
Andrea
Do you think that the “Life Boat Drill” should be done prior to the ship leaving port?
John, thank you for that beautifully written sentiment. As with many things in this world, I hope that people will keep an open mind and not let the questionable actions of one or two persons mar that of an entire industry and the proud family of those who work to keep us safe. I will still continue to be a proud passenger of CCL and not hesitate to return as often as familial obligations allow.
Blessings to all of you!
i am still seeing reports that cannot be true. i KNOW the crew are heros. i just wish they had started evacuating sooner. still don’t understand that. but i can say for sure that the boat drill has always been done and i never want to hear anyone say they aren’t going again!
best to you…. bee
In reading each and every posting on this subject to date, I find that there are a few aspects of the business of cruising that have been neglected.
As a business professional, I find that each and every employee of Carnival Cruise Lines IS an “officer” of the company on the ship they are on. While they may not be an “officer” in rank or title, they are acting in an official capacity in place and steed for Carnival Cruise Lines, and that makes them “officers” of the company. The front line staff are the faces and smiles of the “officers” that are remembered by most cruisers.
It is also apparent to me that during the Costa Concordia tragedy, the “officers” of the ship, both ranking and non-ranking WERE present and doing their assignments with not only the expertise and experience that had been instilled during all the hours of training and practice encountered for such events, but also with all the fear, grace and dignity that could be asked of them. Again remember that some were preforming front line duties and others were working behind the scenes.
I for one, do not know if I could have or would have preformed and “given” all that was given by all of the “officers” on the Costa Concordia had I been placed in the same position. Until one is placed in the position of having of giving ones life for another or to have to chose the life of one guest over another, it is best not to judge and “if” or “would of – should of”.
I am anxiously looking forward to my first Carnival Cruise in March and although I am not new to cruising, I have every expectation that each and every “officer” on the ship I am on will be professional, knowledgable and ready to react to any possible situation that could or may occur.
Kudos to Carnival Cruise Lines “officers”, ranking and non-ranking for the jobs they do!
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BTW I beelieve that there were many crew members that were there assisting that the passangers didn’t know were crew. they expected all the crew to be in uniform but there wasn’t time for them to change clothing as you well know. they were called upon to do their jobs and that is what they did.
kuddos to the crew for being ready to give their lives for the safety of others… and I would be proud to be a passanger on any cruise ship where you are enployed as I know you would give your lives to protect me and the rest of the passangers as you are trained to do… THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart!
YES THAT WAS A TYPO. I UNDERSTAND I PUT IN AN EXTRA E…
Thank you John,
You said it all!!! I can only thank you for acknowledging those amazing heroes who followed their duties during that tragic night onboard the Costa Concordia. They did their tasks and, above all, saved many, many lives…
From a fellow seaman to another… and on behalf of this amazing industry I’d give my life for; THANK YOU!
Wise words Sir. As always, wise words…
Cheers,
Felipe
Hello John,
I’m not a crew member but sailed with Costa a few times. Also on the Concordia. Your blog really brought tears in my eyes. Because it is so right! We only experienced dedicated crew on all our cruises. Experienced the drills onboard during a 3-week cruise last year. And we did feel safe at all times. It’s so sad people base their opinion on the media instead of knowing the facts.
We had an italian captain on all Costa cruises, even the same on two cruise: Mauro Bellomo! Only respect to him and his entire crew!!!
We will sail again in June with the Serena and we know there will be a crew onboard that will look after us, entertain us and do everything necesary to keep us safe and happy. God bless all these people. It’s the best vacation one can have!
PS it’s not in french, I could do it in dutch though haha.
John,
I just read your blog about Costa Condordia and I agree with everything you said. As you might know, I also spent more than 20 years at sea, of which 14 year as a Chief Radio Officer with Carnival. I highly appreciated all Italian Captains and deck officers competence. I believe the Officers and crew on the Costa ship did everything they could do to save human lives. I’m going on a cruise on Carnival Freedom’s Feb 19th sailing. Hoping to see you there.
Best regards from Finland
Soon my husband and I will be sailing in May on our 15th cruise with Carnival. I have never ever been afraid to take a cruise. Every cruise with Carnival the crew and I mean every crew member have been knowledgeable, caring and professional and they know their jobs! I know if there was an emergency we will be very well taken care of. I also believe every cruiser MUST be proactive and get to know their muster station. We do this on every cruise we have been on. My heart goes out to all those family members and prayers are with them all.
Thank you. Well said. We first cruised on the Mardi Gras in 1981. We were celebrating our 15th wedding anniversary with our two daughters. It was a very special and memorable cruise. Since, we have set sail 30 times with Carnival. We love you, the crew members, the captains, all who have taken care of us, entertained us, and made me cry when saying goodbye. We have met many, many Carnival employees and have felt they were part of our family. Next week we will sail again on the Miracle – one of our favorites! In March, we sail on the Dream. We trust our lives with the Carnival staff and pray they have safe journeys.
I agree wholeheartedly. I believe that the crew performed very well under extremely stressful circumstances. We were not there, we cannot judge, but I believe that had the crew not done their jobs, many survivors would not have been survivors. Cruising is safe, but one must always remember that there are risks with every form of travel, and one must conduct oneself accordingly, pay attention during lifeboat drills, familiarize yourself with the ship, and listen to announcements being made overhead, so as not to miss important information. My heart goes out to the families of those lost in this tragedy, but am thankful for those who were saved, as the outcome could have been so much worse.
Hello John, you’ve touch my heart in so many ways with this blog. Please, please, please find a way to post this with the media so others outside your blog and cruise critic may see.
Looking forward to seeing you Mar 4!
Happy cruising!
hopefully you’ll take seriously drills and training next time you join a ship !!!!
thank you for this writing. we are preparing to take our 7th carnival cruise. most cruisers understand the costa was not the norm. but the peanut gallery is afraid. i can’t imagine the frenzy of passengers who haven’t had the drill yet. how could the crew maintain order? all crew and passengers have been in our thoughts and prayers.
Sir,
Much of what you said above had already interred my mind. You are very right to say the crew was there for the customers and did their best. It troubles me still that in every walk of life I see errors being made by those who should know better. This ship was being used by a fool . He had the lives of those folks in his hands and failed them. It matters little that he is from Italy he was a human being who failed his fellow man. I hope he pays for the errors of his ways.
If you are still with me I want to add this does not put me off cruising I will be on one of your ships for the Alaskan seven day cruise in June . I can’t wait .
For “all who go down to the sea in ships” I want to thank you for your time and good works everyone of you work to make MY cruise the best time of my life.
All Best regards ,
Bonnie J Kimberly
What happened is indeed a tragic event. I have cruised many times with Carnival and will continue to do so (Next Month in fact). If people actually pay attention during the Muster drills, they will see, as I have, that the crew who are teaching you what to do, will appear later as your waiters, your dancers, your photographers, etc.
In the midst of a tragedy, a group of people witnessing an event, will see it each a different way. Some see bravery, some don’t… I see an unfortunate event and I pray for all involved. Good day, John and thanks!
I just got home from my cruise on Splendor and have to say the crew on the drill all knew where they had to be and what had to be done everyone from dancers to ships officers all making sure WE knew were to go what to do and how to put on life jackets yes one Captain may have made A mastake cruising is still A very safe way to travel and I am proud to book Carnival and have already booked my next cruies and am looking forward to being on another Carnival ship
Hi John, My husband and I were on the Carnival Liberty on Jan 7th-14th(I bet you know exactly what I’m going to talk about) and if you don’t then shame on Carnival for not keeping you in the loop.This was our second cruise and we were so looking forward to it as my husband and I were sailing alone this time. The last time we cruised was with our youngest daughter who is special needs and love her to death but we desperately needed a break(by the way she had a great time on her cruise and Carnival staff were excellent with her). I’m not going to go into all the details of the good stuff, so I’ll just say that overall we would have given a solid 4 out of 5 stars rating which I think is pretty darn good. However, the incident on the morning of Jan 8th, when someone obviously screwed up and caused the ship to do a serious tilt(25%) changed everything for me. I say me because my husband was able to deal with a bit better than me dispite the fact that he was rolled out of bed by this incident after being woken up by me and some very choice words like to wtf was going on, wtf was that, what’s happening. Our closet doors flew open and suitcases came flying out, our toiletries flew off the shelf in the bathroom, the glasses in the room slid from one end of the shelf to the other, if not for the design of shelf they would have fallen off.I had to hold onto the counter for as to not fall over myself. We were on the portside of the ship so we we tipping towards the water,scared shitless doesn’t really cover it. Fortunately the ship did straighten out, I really have no idea how long this occured(maybe 2 minutes, 2 minutes too long) as I was freaked out nor do I know for sure how long it was until our cruise director came on over the emergency speaker system but my guess is about 20 minutes. We were basically told that it was a very rare occurence and that it was being investigated. Never heard another word, except for what everyone was talking about for the rest of the cruise. What a nice way to spend your much needed vacation. The main pool drain and flooded one of the restaurants, we heard stairwells were flooded,as were elevators, we heard a cook was burned, we heard they had no idea what had caused the problem and that special people were being brought on the ship at our first stop on Tuesday.One of the people working behind the customer service desk even said they were really scared(won’t mention their name because basically they were the only real,honest friendly person that worked at the desk). We heard how people were taking showers and had there bathrooms flooded, we heard dishes were smashed everywhere and food was everywhere. On and on and on. Don’t you think it would have been real nice for the Captain to at some point in time not long after the incident to come on and give some kind of a positive speech(he had no problems telling us about the frekin weather everyday). I realize he obviously couldn’t have told the truth about what happened because I’m sure it was human error as the were relatively calm seas at the time and I’m sure that these ships are built with all kinds of safety features. I’m sure alot of people were able to put this behind them but I was not one of them, I tried, I really did and I wasn’t to bad during the daytime but as soon as I tried to sleep, everytime the boat made a slight tip, I was freaked out. I therefore spent most of the week with very little sleep. I have had nightmares twice since I returned home, that may not sound like much but when you don’t have nightmares that’s two too many for me. We spent almost $4000 on a trip that was needlessly ruined and like I said before so badly needed. I realize that yes, what happened probably was a very rare occurence(or let’s call it like it is, a fuck up, I wonder how all these people would feel if they knew there had been 2 in the same week) but I think it could have been handled in a much better way after the fact so that people like myself could have perhaps been made more at ease. If it had not been for this incident we would have gone on another cruise for sure but there is noway that I will ever be able to get on a cruise ship again. Thanks John for letting me get this off my chest, I’m sure it won’t be posted but perhaps you could pass it along to the powers that be.
I cruised on Costa Lines twice, years ago on the Flavia. The service was excellent, the staff and crew were excellent and we had emergency drills even before we set sail. God bless everyone involved in this.
John, of course you took the Costa Concordia tragedy personally. I can’t imagine your doing otherwise. Cruising is your life’s work, and Costa is part of the Carnival family. And considering all that happened, I agree that it is impressive that most of the passengers and crew survived.
I know there have been a lot of negative comments about Italian officers. As you might say, “bollocks”! Italy has a long and strong maritime tradition. I have sailed many times with Italian captains and officers and will happily and proudly do so again.
There was a lot of criticism of the lack of a lifeboat drill. But I don’t think a lifeboat drill would have helped. All the drills I’ve attended have dealt with a ship that is upright. I’ve never received any information about what to do if the ship is listing severely. It’s a terrifying thought, but maybe that’s something that needs to be addressed in the future.
Don’t pay any attention to the critics, John. The day you stop caring is the day you should turn in your resignation.
Hi John, Would you please chat with the blog about the seriousness of the safety drill and mustering?
I just got off the Carnival Victory on Sun the 29th. In light of the Costa Concordia accident, I had big hopes for the safety some improvement in the safety drill. As far as the muster, I saw no improvement. It was actually terrible in my section muster D and also the people in B, the worst I have ever experienced, people still arriving at their stations 15 minutes late, many carrying bottles of beer, icecream cones and even two guys with plates of food. Nobody listening, everybody chatting, talking and laughing even during the demonstration and loud speaker. A couple in front of us were smoking those fake cigarettes that look real and made people nervous even though they did not know they aren’t real. We weren’t put in line by height so some short people couldn’t see anything, the loud speaker was garbled as if the preson speaking was too close to the mike. No officer in sight to come around to inspect the drill (considering the Costa Concordia accident was only a few days before). It was awful. Only the usual dancers and low level employees in bright vests. There was no one with a bull horn to ask the people to be quiet.
When I did see an officer inside the ship later I expressed my concern to him.
The ship however did have good instructions on the TV and also a very good video explaining in detail all the instruments up in the Bridge that officers follow and plot.
We are booked on the miracle march 17Th.and was very nervous of going….but after reading your comments we will continue ..thank you
Dear Mr.Heald! The “Costa Concordia” can be raised for 1.5-2 months.
This must be done to avoid an ecological catastrophe.
It is much cheaper than cure
1. Fix the “Costa Concordia” is moored to the shore of 8-10 points.
2.The radius of 150-200 meters to put the vertical and horizontal booms, breakwaters
3…
4…
The “Costa Concordia ” is in the ideal conditions for recovery. It is important to eliminate the threat of ecological disaster
7-10 months for recovery is over.
You can not lose time. Sincerely Zinnur Gaynullin Kazan Russia +7 9274 188097
HS8YtRjf_VWVZkuge3Ul1Q.jpg
Dear Mr.Heald!
The “Costa Concordia” can be raised for 1.5-2 months.
This must be done to avoid an ecological catastrophe.
It is much cheaper than cure
1. Fix the “Costa Concordia” is moored to the shore of 8-10 points.
2.The radius of 150-200 meters to put the vertical and horizontal booms, breakwaters
3…
4…
The “Costa Concordia ” is in the ideal conditions for recovery. It is important to eliminate the threat of ecological disaster
7-10 months for recovery is over.
You can not lose time.
Sincerely Zinnur Gaynyllin Kazan Russia +7 9274188097
HS8YtRjf_VWVZkuge3Ul1Q.jpg
I have cruised many different lines over the past 30 years. It is with extreme sadness that I have noted a lax attitude in recent years creep into the mandatory safety drill at the beginning of every cruise. I assumed (about 10 years ago) that this was because passengers wanted to streamline the safety drill because of their impatience. My very first drill took over a half hour and was repeated in several languages! Passengers appear to be impatient with crew as they explain procedures. This is sad. I agree with you that cruising is safe. Crew members should be applauded for every effort they put out … either safety related or comfort related.
I strongly agree on you John. Being a crew on a ship is not a simple thing. It’s like sacrificing your life already just to perform your duties and responsibilities incase that you have to do it. Costa Concordia was a big part of my life since this is where I started my life being a crew. This is where I learned a lot of things about life onboard. So to all my fellow crew members, good friends and colleagues who are on Costa Concordia on the time of the accident, I salute you all for being the real heroes. For performing your job to save the life of thousands of passenger even it may cause your death. You deserve to be called as HEROES. And to all the cruisers who entrusted their lives to us crew, thank you. For trusting and believing us. We will keep on doing our best to deserve the trust that you are giving to all the crew.
I never heard of any of the crew being killed?? Are not their cabins where the hole was ripped thru?? Every man for themselfs when water comes pouring in. How could there be no crew dead if they were to assit with the safe exit of the passangers?? I am just saying some food for thought
Hey Robert Jones, one of the first reported death was a crewmember from Peru, so food for thought just keep your opinions for yourself next time…
Your post is well stated. I am scheduled to cruise on the Liberty March 3, and never once have I had any misgivings about my safety. The first cruise I went on was a seven day western carribean aboard the Legend. On the fifth day, there was an earthquake in South America and a few hours later, we were a good imitation of “extreme sports” in the middle of the ocean. You had to hold on to the hallway rails to remain upright, the dishes on the table in the dining room skated across the table unless you hung on to them and people (even those well dosed with Dramamine) were SEASICK. Being a novice, I guess I didn’t have sense enough to be scared and with much effort, managed to make it as far as the Lido Bar. I literally fell onto a stool, just feeling the beginning sensation of a massive stomach heave. The first pangs of real fear inched into my brain. The bartender, busily setting up for the day, turned without comment and placed a glass of Ginger Ale in front of me. I started to argue but he simply shook his head and motioned for me to “bottom up.” I obeyed and more quickly than immediately, my stomach calmed. He then explained to me how the ship has the equipment and experienced sailors to weather even the roughest storm. He was so calm and positive I was completely reassured. Feeling prepared to face even the worst lurch (and assured that my breakfast would stay put) I thanked him and continued on my way to my stateroom. Every time I’ve had someone ask me if I’m still going on my cruise after what happened to that ship in Italy, I remember that morning, smile and reply “Wouldn’t miss it!” I pray for the lost souls of the Concordia and for those who have been left behind but I have no qualms about boarding one of Carnival’s ships. Kudos to all of those who work so hard to make sure we have a good time!
John.
I am very happy to read your comments re the Concordia crew. In most situations some rise to the challenge and some do not. Till we meet a test we do not know where we would fit! However one thing I hope is that with all the ballyhoo that has ocurred this tragedy becomes a learning situation to reduce the chance of it happening again.
My daughter and I have cruised for twenty years and although I am mobility challenged I have never had any fear of cruising but have thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank You for your continuing information.
Sincerely Vi Ready
Thank you for your comments. This accident has effected me to my core, and even though it is not in the news as much I continue to think about it. I appreciate that there are always rotten apples in the barrell and the actions of this one guy should not color our opinionts of any other. I am however concerned that the hiring/promoting process needs somehow to be updated to discover someone that would take risks with the lives of passengers. I have not met any Carnival Captains, but my wife and I also cruise on your sister company Princess. I remember on a recent Trans-Atlantic cruise how highly the crew spoke of Captain Perrin because he did not take risks in bad weather.
I have watched with interest the news on the tragic events surrounding the Costa Concordia, and have frankly, been surprised at the effect on me. There have been other such incidents (the ship sinking at Santorini comes to mind), but I’ve always been able to explain them away as being an outlier..part of a cruise company I’ve never heard of that perhaps did not have safety training up to par with more main stream companies such as those under the Carnival Corporation banner. The Concordia has exploded those myths. This ship looked as beautiful and modern as any in your line….with all of the modern electronics I’ve seen on bridge tours…yet still this terrible accident happened.
I was in the Army Reserve, and am familiar with the types of training leaders have, eating after their men, facing danger first to set a good example. This cruise captain shows that the most modern equipment in the world is useless if the training is not up to par and they take risks with the passengers lives. The chaos after the incident is I’m sure related that he was one of the first off the ship…how were the remaining officers and crew supposed to react when they saw him run? I’m not sure if I will ever look at cruising the same again. We will not stop cruising, it is such a great way to see the world. I am happy to see that all Carnival companies are looking at training but I am hopefully that you are also evaluating the hiring practices to ensure you have top notch people in the officer corps. I also hope that you somehow, ensure that the sorts of things the Costa Captain did (veering off course to impress local islanders) does not ever happen.
I suspect many of your customers are feeling the same. This is a big deal, and though it is not in the news much any more the event has had a profound impact on those of us that enjoy cruising…and that you take major steps to ensure nothing like this ever happens again.