The ship is stunning. In spite of 2,100 passengers, it seems almost empty at times.
Before leaving Ft Lauderdale yesterday, I walked the three blocks from my hotel to the beach (about the maximum I can walk these days). I was instantly reminded of how beautiful the city is—bright post-modern architecture, thick almost indestructible grass, swaying palms and a lovely beach. But it took only a few minutes to remember the five reasons why we decided to relocate to Tucson rather than Florida:
1. Humidity
2. Humidity
3. Humidity
4. See picture below
5. See picture below
As I checked in at Port Everglades I was surprised by the number of passengers in shorts and tank tops—do they know we are crossing the Atlantic? I also learned from a crew member that there are no children on this cruise (except for those of us in our second childhood).
Life Jackets on the new ship are much easier to use: no more squeezing them over your head and tying the straps in back and front like a strait-jacket. Now just put your arms through the sleeve-holes like a vest and buckle up in front. That’s it!
I have a lovely table for myself in the dining room, although the main table steward seems a little surly; perhaps he’ll warm up over the next few days. Tonight is the first formal night and I intend to create a sensation in my tuxedo. I also start my special wine service tonight (more about that tomorrow).
The ship’s mantra, so I’m told, is “If you see it; eat it” (just imagine the possibilities). My mantra is, “if it’s on my plate, I’ll eat it”; that should keep me from overloading my plate. Don’t expect an item-by-item description of the food. I’ll just give each day’s highlight. Saturday evening’s highlight was an antipasto platter with duck breast pâté; several kinds of European cold cuts, including prosciutto; fruits, and corn relish. Excellent.
I will post more about today’s wine tasting and pictures of my stateroom tomorrow. Now it’s off to dinner.
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