I write from my desk again, amidst empty suitcases (and some, unfortunately, still full). I find the operation of joining (and leaving) the Amsterdam fraught with challenges in regard to the number of suitcases and paraphernalia, particularly as Karen (K1) is sailing with me. (K2 is not with us this year, we left her back at home, suffering from ‘cruise withdrawal’ symptoms).
An overnight stay in a hotel in Fort Lauderdale, my last night of ‘freedom’ for some time; a delicious dinner in a seafood restaurant and an early night, ready for an early start to pier 26 and the change-of-command.
The view from our hotel
Any logistics manager would have been proud, a lovely ‘cargo’ stow in the back of the largest vehicle that the rental company could provide, enough clothing, shoes, dresses, (hers, not mine) 😯 to dress an army, the challenge being that it all needed to get on board via the gangway. No porter, no luggage cages, just good old manpower; fortunately aided and abetted by some of the wonderful crew.
As my daughter Liz put it, “more luggage than the Kardashian’s” 🙂
Having sailed slightly late, 10:30 pm, due to shipping movements in the port, I write from the Old Bahama channel. the stretch of water which lies between the north coast of Cuba and the reefs of the Bahama Islands. We will round the eastern tip of Cuba early tomorrow morning and 6 hours later, pass the western tip of Haiti before making for our first port-of-call of the 2017 Grand World Voyage, Santa Marta, Columbia on Saturday morning.
Almost 1200 guests, many familiar faces, all looking forward to a voyage of Discovery, Education and Adventure. This is the first time that I have had to pack a winter coat, scarf and gloves, for our itinerary will take us through tropical climes and not so warm; Japan, China and South Korea are cold in February. The last time I was in Japan was on a 150,000 tonne bulk-carrier, taking iron ore from Australia to Kure, near Hiroshima; it will be nice to not have to dock at a steel mill!
I will leave you with a photo taken while we were docked at pier 26. It lies on the Intracoastal waterway and is used by commercial vessels too; it’s narrow and there is little passing space as you can see.
More soon!
Safe travels. We were with you last year and so envious of those with you this year. Have a wonderful trip and we look forward to your posts.
Karen (K3) and Mel Ray
Spruce Creek Fly In
Welcome back, Captain, and “Bon Voyage” to all on board the ms Amsterdam! I wish you all fair winds, smooth sailing, and a safe and happy Grand Voyage.
Looking forward to “sailing along” – – on my computer!
Happy travels, good work days, fun entertaining and all the good stuff that goes with being a Captain of a cruise ship
was on with you last year on our first WC and had such a ball. You were so friendly with me at the sandwich bar and out on the back deck with your wife. We are in San Diego for three weeks, and will be standing outside when you dock in San Diego to see some friends. Smooth sailing
Welcome back Captain, have been missing your posts. Compliments of the Season and wishing you & Karen as well as the crew of good ship “Amsterdam” good sailing with smooth seas and glorious weather. Looking forward to sailing with you on this blog. It is so enjoyable to read all about your travels.
Best regards
Ted Dixon
Cape Town
ay
Bon Voyage! Can’t wait to read of your travels this year. I love your pictures (especially of the grandchildren) and all the places you visit.
Bon voyage Captain, looking forward to your posts. Safe and happy travels. We are looking forward to meeting you this time next year on our Grand Africa Voyage with you at the helm.
Elizabeth and Viktor
So grand to begin the grand world voyage anew, even though it is electronically this year. We miss the sights, sounds, smells, smiles and general camaraderie of being there in person . However, dear Captain Jonathan, we know you will continue to share these precious experiences with your fans who cannot be with you and Karen this year. Best thoughts to you both and of course, to all the precious crew too.
Watched you depart last night on the PTZ webcam. Pangs of envy!! Have a “grand” grand voyage Captain. Looking forward to your posts.
Larry
Bon Voyage to you and my friends who are on board. We too are having cruise withdrawal symptoms.
A sailor returns to the sea. Smooth sailing. Nice photo of the luggage in what I presume is your accommodation. As I’m sure many passengers have always wondered what the Captain’s cabin looks like, it would be nice if you could/would show more of it. Have a great journey.
Thank you Captain–we so look forward to yr posts–wish we were with you too!
Happy sailing.
Wendy & Al from BC
Miss being there with you this year! Safe travels!
Bon voyage, Captain. Have a safe and wonderful time – to you, the crew and 1200 passengers (wish we were there!)
Jean & George in BC
safe voyage…see you same time next year
if you land in Osaka it is so close to Kyoto and so worth it…I have a guide Steve Biemel from Esprit travels.com who can take you around either city—the food downstairs in the department stores is a fantastic experience…
enjoy yourself when you can! I look forward to reading all your posts