Day 1 at Sea

Hi Everyone! Today we set sail from Southampton. The weather was mostly cloudy and cool. Check in was a breeze; in fact, the easiest check in we ever had on any cruise ship. Had a wonderful buffet lunch and explored the ship while we waited for our room to be ready. When we arrived at our room, boy were we surprised -- what a beautiful and spacious room – and our luggage was already waiting in the room! We received our official name badges, met with the cruise director staff, did the lifeboat drill, and then we “hosted” a block party. That’s where everyone meets in the hallway to meet and greet their neighbors while wine is served. What a novel concept! Then ate a wonderful dinner at the steakhouse – Michael had a NY steak and I had lobster (which I gave ¾ of to Michael to eat). After dinner, we attended the welcome show and we went on stage where we were introduced (along with the rest of the entertainment staff). We lose another hour tonight.

Just a few details: Michael said the “free” wine was terrific (he had a Cline zinfandel for those who care). Our bathroom has a tub and separate stall shower. There is a huge walk-in closet. The sitting room has a huge wall unit and desk and couch and 2 chairs. There is also a separate vanity. And we have a verandah. This is the nicest room we have ever had on any ship. We applied to be escorts on the shore excursions and are hopeful that we will get plenty of them.

The ship itself is small and only holds 700 passengers. It is “petite” in its proportions compared to other ships we have been on. It is very understated. I think they put the emphasis and money in the passenger rooms rather than the common rooms.
More to come when we actually have something to report. Tomorrow is a sea day cruising the coast of Denmark. Our first actual port visit will be Gothenberg Sweden.