For months, we’ve been hearing about how European countries are on the verge of bankruptcy…first Greece, then Ireland, Spain, Portugal and even Italy. While it’s not exactly a bailout, cruising is giving Spain a shot in the arm, at least this week. Last Saturday, eight cruise ships delivered 31,000 passengers to Barcelona. This weekend, nine… Continue reading Barcelona's Cruise Ship Bonanza
Category: Ships
Marathoner's Plan for Princess
My more-than-capable colleague (and wife of many years) slipped me an unusual cruise story yesterday. It’s about a man and a marathon…actually, a man and many marathons, the latest of which he may be running as we speak, somewhere on the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This is not a man who can run on… Continue reading Marathoner's Plan for Princess
Norwegian: Time for The Haven
Now that privacy is clearly for sale on cruise lines, we’re starting to see just how popular it is. Take Norwegian, for example. It is changing the name of its private quarters from “Courtyard” to “The Haven” in advance of rolling out the new brand on its new ships, due in 2013 and 2014. Now,… Continue reading Norwegian: Time for The Haven
Having Fun…'Friends of Bill W'
One of our dearest friends, Jean-Guy Pelletier, passed away suddenly a few weeks ago, but he will live in us forever, for too many reasons to explain here. One reason, however, will be with us every time we set foot on a cruise ship. Our friend was proof that you can have fun without drinking.… Continue reading Having Fun…'Friends of Bill W'
Cruising Upgrade for Irene?
Maybe it’s time for a new name. Maybe “Hurricane” Season should be called “Tropical Storm” Season — at least by the cruise community. The name change that could take place today is all about Irene. Weather experts could be saying “Goodnight Irene” to the ninth tropical storm to get a name this year, and change… Continue reading Cruising Upgrade for Irene?