It was early morning, December of 2006. It was almost Christmas. The kids were already at their Grandmother's house for a week's stay. It was raining cats and dogs, and we could barely see the road. We got to the airport early and were lucky enough to get through check in without too much hassle. The flight south was full of turbulence but we made it safely to Orlando, Florida. The cruise line had a representative meet us there, then it was on a bus for 50 miles to Port Canaveral, where our ship was waiting. It was not the biggest ship of the cruise line, nor the newest, but it was the first cruise ship I had ever seen this closely, and to me it was glorious.
There was a bit of a wait while we all registered to get on board (we had forgotten to bring our computer printout for the information so we had to fill out some forms there) but we got on board a few hours before the ship set off. Once on board we had our first meal. It was just supposed to be a snack, but there was so much food. It was like being in a huge buffet, with all the food tasting so good. Later there was a set-off party up on the deck where a Caribbean band played music while we all danced and enjoyed watched the shore slip away. That night we had dinner in one of the main dining rooms. This was also exquisitely tasteful. One of the things that I enjoyed most was how warm it was. Where we live, it is cold during the Winter, but here it was in the 80's with everyone in shorts and t-shirts, it was so enjoyable. We just toured the ship and went dancing in the clubs for the rest of the night. I enjoyed watching the other people, seeing how happy they were, just observing this wide variety of people all having fun like us.
The whole time we were out and about our day on the ship, there were people everywhere that were just waiting to serve our needs. In the room all the bedding and towels were replaced like magic, with little towel animals being left on the bed. In the food service areas, everyone was so helpful. I barely had to do anything for my self, I felt like royalty. This was my first day on the cruise and already it had exceeded all my expectations. The best, though, was yet to come!
1 comment:
Thanks lady, you remembering me to the first and only ship in my life. During 1976 had employed as a receptionist onboard ss Rotterdam of Holland America Cruises. April to October, on Sat at NYC, Tue at Bahamas and Thu at Bermuda. The next 3 months we have an Carribean Cruise. From NYC we leave for a 3 months World Cruises. Sailing often make life that strong in happiness.
Post a Comment