HAL ships chartered by Inspiration cruises

[Orcrone]

In another thread a poster realized that their cruise was being chartered. Although it wasn't by this group, someone else pointed out that Inspiration cruises (a Christian organization) often charters HAL ships. So I thought I'd post their schedule for anyone who might like to join/avoid their group.

I'm not making judgements, just want to put the info out there.

Alaska

6/5 - 6/12 Amsterdam
6/19 - 6/26 Amsterdam
7/2 - 7/9 Oosterdam
7/2 - 7/9 Zaandam
7/23 - 7/30 Oosterdam
7/30 - 8/6 Zaandam
8/7 -8/14 Amsterdam
8/13 - 8/26 Zaandam
9/9 - 9/16 Statendam
9/17 - 9/24 Oosterdam

Caribbean

1/23 - 1/29 Oosterdam
2/12 - 2/19 Veendam
2/13 - 2/30 Westerdam
6/4 - 6/11 Carnival Glory
7/23 - 7/30 Zuiderdam
8/6 - 8/13 Zuiderdam
11/26 - 12/3 Golden Princess

New England

6/25 - 7/2 Maasdam
10/1 - 10/8 Maasdam

[ekerr19]

Wow, that's alot of charters... thank you for posting this, it will be very helpful to many who are planning on booking in 2005.

I am happy to say that I don't see my upcoming cruise on the list. I am not a fan of charters or escorted cruises...

[Orcrone]

Wow, that's alot of charters... thank you for posting this, it will be very helpful to many who are planning on booking in 2005.

I am happy to say that I don't see my upcoming cruise on the list. I am not a fan of charters or escorted cruises...ekerr,

Believe me, I also breathed a sigh of relief. I'd love to find a way to determine whether a particular ship is chartered by anyone for a particular sailing. Just my luck I'll be on a cruise with the Marilyn Manson fan club.:eek:

[ekerr19]

ekerr,

Just my luck I'll be on a cruise with the Marilyn Manson fan club.:eek:Yeah, but your kids might love it! :D

I hear what you're saying - we had a TA escorted group with us on the Noordam - several of whom are still probably looking for the Lido... ;)

[super_grover]

acutally marilyn manson is a little 1998/99..And actually, although not a fan myself, I did think that he has some good insights in "Bowling for Columbine". These days I would be more worried about preteen girls in belly shirts and more make up than I own. Eek.

[sail7seas]

:D Wonder if they have figured out yet Noordam is no longer an HAL ship?? :)



Thanks for posting this list. VERY helpful to anyone who wishes to avoid the large charter. Doesn't matter to me WHO the charter is.....I don't want to be aboard with ANY group which has substantially chartered the ship. It happened to us once and it was VERY unpleasant.


I think it very unfair of HAL to hold that info to themselves and 'set us up' by selling the remaining 10% or such of the cabins to unsuspecting, very unlucky cruisers.

[dakrewser]

Caribbean

1/23 - 1/29 Oosterdam

Um, it sails on 1/22 and it's Mexican Riviera from San diego....

:)

[dakrewser]

Let's remember that there are "groups" on just about every cruise ship that leaves port. Some are only 10-20 people, while others are 500 or more. Small groups (say, under 100 pax) shouldn't present much of a problem, It's just the larger contingents that can really be irritating....


-dave

[bepsf]

I wonder if this was the group that chartered the entire Amsterdam sailing prior to ours in September?


On our cruise, the crew were thrilled to have passengers would come to their shows and hang out w/ them and the bar staff were very happy to see us too, as the prior week that group put on their own 'entertainment' and did absolutely no drinking...

[Orcrone]

Um, it sails on 1/22 and it's Mexican Riviera from San diego....

:)OK, caught me on two counts. On their website the link is listed as Caribbean/Mexico. In today's hectic ADD world I couldn't bother to read the second word.:D

As to the other mistake, I wrote it down correctly, but hit the wrong key on the keyboard.

I'd go back and edit it, but the EDIT link has gone the way of the dodo. I'm sure anyone on that ship will recognize the sailing.

[uncialman]

In another thread a poster realized that their cruise was being chartered. Although it wasn't by this group, someone else pointed out that Inspiration cruises (a Christian organization) often charters HAL ships. So I thought I'd post their schedule for anyone who might like to join/avoid their group.

I'm not making judgements, just want to put the info out there.

Alaska

6/5 - 6/12 Amsterdam
6/19 - 6/26 Amsterdam
7/2 - 7/9 Oosterdam
7/2 - 7/9 Zaandam
7/23 - 7/30 Oosterdam
7/30 - 8/6 Zaandam
8/7 -8/14 Amsterdam
8/13 - 8/26 Zaandam
9/9 - 9/16 Statendam
9/17 - 9/24 Oosterdam

Caribbean

1/23 - 1/29 Oosterdam
2/12 - 2/19 Veendam
2/13 - 2/30 Westerdam
6/4 - 6/11 Carnival Glory
7/23 - 7/30 Zuiderdam
8/6 - 8/13 Zuiderdam
11/26 - 12/3 Golden Princess

New England

6/25 - 7/2 Maasdam
10/1 - 10/8 Maasdam

Greetins Orcone!

I want to make a correction for you:

None of the above listed cruises are *chartered* for groups per Inspiration Cruises. Inspiration Cruises (My main competitor and arch enemy :D) has simply blocked off space for a large group on each of these ships. I know some of these groups intimately and compete for their business, so I have rather intimate knowledge of their group size. For instance, the June 19th sailing of the Amsterdam is for Dr. John MacArthur's "Grace to You" organization and is a group of approximately 300 passengers. The group does not "shut down" any bars or functions while on board the ship. The group uses the forward show lounge twice daily where Phillip Johnson teaches from approximately 8:30am - 10:00am and Dr. MacArthur teaches from the first dining time till the beginning of the 3rd, quarterly hour dining (so as not to interfere with any scheduled shows.

Just for your info, I am holding space for the Southern Baptist Convention Founders on the Veendam, November 12-19th for approximately 400 people (based upon double occupancy). As darkrewser properly stated, there are large groups on almost any cruise that you cruise on (in excess of 100 passengers). Charters are fairly rare and HAL makes groups pay a pretty penny for the use of their ships - and that only long in advance.

Please also be aware that the crews are generally very receptive to Christian groups. While SBC groups usually tend to abstain from alcohol (some, not all) Christian groups generally drink as much as alcohol as your average HAL passenger (Presby's, Methodists, Catholics, non-denoms and the like).

Thanks for making this board fun and informative...

[uncialman]

Something else that you might want to be watchful of:

If you are aware of large groups that are taking up lots and lots of cabins, be wary of the inventory and price as soon as you are within 90 days of sailings: that's when the big groups have to release or buy up their remaining inventory. Thus, the price is likely to drop. :D

[thulewx]

Do you know anything about the Stonecroft Ministries group on Westerdam 13 -20 Feb? :confused:

[Orcrone]

Uncialman,

On another thread a couple of posters were abhorred by the idea of going on a cruise with a Christian organiziation because of stereotypical reactions to that group. Do you find that people on these cruises tend to evangelize the other passengers?

[uncialman]

Uncialman,

On another thread a couple of posters were abhorred by the idea of going on a cruise with a Christian organiziation because of stereotypical reactions to that group. Do you find that people on these cruises tend to evangelize the other passengers?

No, I don't: but the stereotypes abound without a doubt. On our previous cruises with large groups, I can't think of any instances where there has been a problem. Now, this being said, the groups that I run are always seated together at dinner at the same dining and are generally on the cruise for fellowship and edification as opposed to evangelization.

On a side note, however, it appears that folks seem to have no problems expressing other non-Christian beliefs or lifestyle choices to Christians, but when a Christian chooses to express their understanding of presuppositional truth, they are instantly pegged as a "hate monger" even if the discussion is done in a spirit of love and tolerance. The reslut being, as soon as someone bows there head to give thanks before a meal (at a table that is occupied soley by the group), people take offense. In other words, I find it odd that Christians attempt to be tolerating of all others on board but many that don't hold their convictions are intolerant of the Christians. Odd, eh?:D

[peaches from georgia]

.....On a side note, however, it appears that folks seem to have no problems expressing other non-Christian beliefs or lifestyle choices to Christians, but when a Christian chooses to express their understanding of presuppositional truth, they are instantly pegged as a "hate monger" even if the discussion is done in a spirit of love and tolerance..... In other words, I find it odd that Christians attempt to be tolerating of all others on board but many that don't hold their convictions are intolerant of the Christians. Odd, eh?:D
Let's not even start to go there. This is not a religious discussion, but one about any large group taking over their ship's facilities and activities.

[uncialman]

Do you know anything about the Stonecroft Ministries group on Westerdam 13 -20 Feb? :confused:

Stonecroft Ministries is a non-Denominational (although somewhat well -attended and supported by many baptist organizations) Organization that blends psychology/self-help along with Marital counseling and evangelism. Larry Crab and Gary Chapman are very involved in most of their conferences/cruises and are both authors of many books dealing with relationships, marrriage etc. with a Christian worldview. They are evangelistic in nature, but usually not in a "hard-sell" sense of the word.

Ain't no biggee thulewx - pretty fun, easy going group for the most part and it shouldn't be that big of a group. Most of their time should be taken up by personal devotions and teaching sessions.

[uncialman]

Let's not even start to go there. This is not a religious discussion, but one about any large group taking over their ship's facilities and activities.

LOL! You just made my point! :D

Fair enough...

[thulewx]

Thanks for the info.

[peaches from georgia]

LOL! You just made my point! :D

I did no such thing. You have no idea of my beliefs or whether I agree with what you said or not. A cruise message board is simply not the place for discussion of religion, any religion. I imagine Walt would agree.

[uncialman]

I did no such thing. You have no idea of my beliefs or whether I agree with what you said or not. A cruise message board is simply not the place for discussion of religion, any religion. I imagine Walt would agree.

Peaches, Orcone asked me a question, I elaborated and answered it. Nuff said.

To be exegetically truthful, this thread started has several opinions about the actions and attitudes of *said* groups without any of us that happen to hold to those beliefs and lifestlyles that are being scrutinized reacting adversly with harsh rhetoric. This being said, I try to always never start a conversation on this board that is theological in nature. However, if a question is asked of me, I *can* answer it.

[tomc]

(e-mail just sent to Inspiration Cruises to see how big a group they expect. Might as well go right to the source.)

Hi Folks!

Looks as if we'll be sharing the same wonderful ship for the same wonderful itinerary June 25 - July 2. Been on the ship before and taken that cruise before; they're both just great, as is Holland America Line, my favorite.

Got one question: How many of you will be onboard with me and what effect will that have on our use of the common rooms?

Thanks for your reply and I'm sure your participants will have a lovely time in that beautiful part of the world.

[uncialman]

(e-mail just sent to Inspiration Cruises to see how big a group they expect. Might as well go right to the source.)

Hi Folks!

Looks as if we'll be sharing the same wonderful ship for the same wonderful itinerary June 25 - July 2. Been on the ship before and taken that cruise before; they're both just great, as is Holland America Line, my favorite.

Got one question: How many of you will be onboard with me and what effect will that have on our use of the common rooms?

Thanks for your reply and I'm sure your participants will have a lovely time in that beautiful part of the world.

They might "expect" 500 - 700, but I bet that one will garner around 300-350 cruisers ( just my estimate after working with such groups - this one is "Women of Faith" - so you would have some Hubby's staying at home or not participating in a lot of functions. )

A word of advice: buy your cabin right after their release date - good chance the price will drop. :D

[ekerr19]

A word of advice: buy your cabin right after their release date - good chance the price will drop. :D
I'll pass, but thanks for the info. It definitely comes in handy for the future. We avoid these cruises (ANY large group) like the plague, no offense intended.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Orcrone

Thanks for posting the information. A lot of try to avoid cruises that have been chartered by large groups (any large group).

[tomc]

Things to consider when Inspiration Cruises has a ton of people on your ship:

This one is true
An elderly couple gave me a t-shirt that says:

Jesus is coming;
Look busy.

Maybe I should wear that on the ship. My favorite line (strictly among friends) is: "Devil worship is better than no worship at all," but I think I won't have that put on a t-shirt for the week.

* * * * *

"Surely you believe in God."
"Yes, I do, but don't call me 'Shirley.'"

"Do you have Grace before meals?"
"We usually wait until after she finishes the dishes."

"How liberal is your son's Catholic school?"
"When he grows up, he wants to be the Pope's husband."

"Met a guy who said he married a woman one year, then he married her brother three years later."
"Is he bisexual?"
"No; he's the pastor of their parish and did the weddings."

"How was it being on a ship with 350 religious women?"
"Everytime I passed one, she'd say, 'God bless you.' I kept thinking, 'Did I just sneeze and not realize it?'"

[DoctorFeelgood]

Well, I'm not sure who this group is or what their behavior is like. However, I do admit to not liking to be evangelized, nor did I particularly like my last experience on board a ship with a large group (my specific case was a group that was about 2/3 of the total passenger count). The group was not at all evangelical, but the fact that they went to and got out of meetings and other activities at certain times impacted my own schedule and seemed to put a lot of stress on the crew and facilities.

Other problems with the large group:

They all arrived at the pier at roughly the same time, making check-in a nightmare.

They would "hold" tables at the buffet, or chairs by the pool, or elevators, etc for large groups of friends.

This particular group had very specific dietary requirements, which actually did alter the variety and availability of food for non-group pax.


Now, none of these factors was a deliberate or malicious act on the part of the group or its members. It just seemed to be an inherent property of being such a large group.

My family did its best to avoid the group during our cruise. Perhaps this was part of the problem.

[Orcrone]

Orcrone

Thanks for posting the information. A lot of try to avoid cruises that have been chartered by large groups (any large group).
No problem. I originally checked to see if my cruise is one of those listed. Then when I saw how many there were, I figured I'd post it as more than a few people are affected.

I'm going during spring break, so I figured I was safe. Cruiselines can book a lot more cabins during school break, and can charge a higher fare. So I don't think any groups are going to be booking large blocks of rooms.

[uncialman]

Orcrone

Thanks for posting the information. A lot of try to avoid cruises that have been chartered by large groups (any large group).


Hey, I totally understand if you have a group shutting down the usual services, but believe me - there are large groups on *every* sailing. It's the big corporations that really take up the bars and such (open bar parties - lease the onboard band, sail-away parties 'just for the group' - that sort of thing). I have a group of 300+ Insurance salesmen on the Imagination in 4 weeks : they, and a retail merchant with 500 on the sailing, will EAT the ship - no doubt. On any one sailing, groups make up 20% - 70% of the total sailing.

Also check Landry and Kling - they are the biggest Corp. Cruise Group operator around. L & K have at least 5-10 big groups going a month.

[uncialman]

Things to consider when Inspiration Cruises has a ton of people on your ship:

This one is true
An elderly couple gave me a t-shirt that says:

Jesus is coming;
Look busy.

Maybe I should wear that on the ship. My favorite line (strictly among friends) is: "Devil worship is better than no worship at all," but I think I won't have that put on a t-shirt for the week.

* * * * *

"Surely you believe in God."
"Yes, I do, but don't call me 'Shirley.'"

"Do you have Grace before meals?"
"We usually wait until after she finishes the dishes."

"How liberal is your son's Catholic school?"
"When he grows up, he wants to be the Pope's husband."

"Met a guy who said he married a woman one year, then he married her brother three years later."
"Is he bisexual?"
"No; he's the pastor of their parish and did the weddings."

"How was it being on a ship with 350 religious women?"
"Everytime I passed one, she'd say, 'God bless you.' I kept thinking, 'Did I just sneeze and not realize it?'"

All in good fun...

Many Christians deserve the stereotypes they are given...

[Orcrone]

I have a group of 300+ Insurance salesmen on the Imagination in 4 weeks.Picture it. A cruise with two large groups booked. One group the insurance salesman and another group from Inspiration cruises.

When someone asks you if "you've thought about what will happen when you die" you won't know which group they're from.:D

[uncialman]

Well, I'm not sure who this group is or what their behavior is like. However, I do admit to not liking to be evangelized, nor did I particularly like my last experience on board a ship with a large group (my specific case was a group that was about 2/3 of the total passenger count). The group was not at all evangelical, but the fact that they went to and got out of meetings and other activities at certain times impacted my own schedule and seemed to put a lot of stress on the crew and facilities.

Other problems with the large group:

They all arrived at the pier at roughly the same time, making check-in a nightmare.

They would "hold" tables at the buffet, or chairs by the pool, or elevators, etc for large groups of friends.

This particular group had very specific dietary requirements, which actually did alter the variety and availability of food for non-group pax.


Now, none of these factors was a deliberate or malicious act on the part of the group or its members. It just seemed to be an inherent property of being such a large group.

My family did its best to avoid the group during our cruise. Perhaps this was part of the problem.


Hey DFG!

Yes, the same can be said of large Family reunions, coroporations and the like...

Groups are a fact of life for cruises and will be for ages on end. The lines are constantly trying to grab their piece of the group cruise pie (and it is a big pie). I think the *key* to all of this is better group coordination and management while on-board. And while Celebrity, RCI, and Carnival have dedicated group managers on board, HAL and Princess still do not ( I was actually assigned the Bar Manager on my last HAL group cruise - the guy honestly couldn't do his job properly and tend to the group - not fair to him). With so man large groups on HAL, they need to appoint certain times that can and cannot be used on the ship in regards to public rooms. Also, they need to print out guidelines that pertain to group cruisers alone. I have suggested this a number of times but my comments have been blown-off.

You do have my word, however, that whenever I share a ship with others that I always try to give my groups explicit directions as to their behavior and actions on the ship (such as seat-saving etc). I have always suggested to my groups that they meet *prior* to their dining engagements and proceed to the buffet together so as to not cause a strain on the seating.

I also never want to take away from the functions that are expected of the individual cruisers on board such as shows, movies, bingo etc. Just doin' my part to keep the experience of cruising standard for *all* cruisers.

[uncialman]

Picture it. A cruise with two large groups booked. One group the insurance salesman and another group from Inspiration cruises.

When someone asks you if "you've thought about what will happen when you die" you won't know which group they're from.:D

LOL!!! I'll have to use that one in the future...:D

[dakrewser]

OK, caught me on two counts. On their website the link is listed as Caribbean/Mexico. In today's hectic ADD world I couldn't bother to read the second word.:D

As to the other mistake, I wrote it down correctly, but hit the wrong key on the keyboard.

I'd go back and edit it, but the EDIT link has gone the way of the dodo. I'm sure anyone on that ship will recognize the sailing.
You've got a future as webmaster at HAL!

:rolleyes: -dave

[Orcrone]

You've got a future as webmaster at HAL!

:rolleyes: -daveSorry, too much information was correct for that line of work.;)

[tomc]

We will be bringing a large group with us on the cruise. This will not
affect the ship programming at all. Our private meetings will take place in
the large show lounge during a time that it is not normally used for regular
passengers. All other common rooms will be available to our passengers as
well as the regular passengers on the ship.

You are right to say that the Maasdam is a wonderful ship and in our
opinion, Holland America is one of the best cruise lines around... And then
this itinerary is my absolute favorite. I'm sure you will have a wonderful
time and our group should not impact your cruise negatively in any way.

Sincerely,

Delinda Hernandez
Director of Operations

[uncialman]

We will be bringing a large group with us on the cruise. This will not
affect the ship programming at all. Our private meetings will take place in
the large show lounge during a time that it is not normally used for regular
passengers. All other common rooms will be available to our passengers as
well as the regular passengers on the ship.

You are right to say that the Maasdam is a wonderful ship and in our
opinion, Holland America is one of the best cruise lines around... And then
this itinerary is my absolute favorite. I'm sure you will have a wonderful
time and our group should not impact your cruise negatively in any way.

Sincerely,

Delinda Hernandez
Director of Operations

TomC:

I would imagine that they are gun-shy about giving out any specific information about 'projected' numbers that they expect on the cruise. Delinda is correct, the meetings will be arranged at a.m. hours in the forward showroom when passengers won't be impacted and during p.m. hours during the first dining time. However, if the numbers fall below 200, they might be shifted to the Wajang / Culinary Arts Center or the Half Moon. However, knowing the group, they will probably fill *at least* 100 cabins dble occup (and probably more).

[tomc]

However, if the numbers fall below 200, they might be shifted to the Wajang / Culinary Arts Center or the Half Moon.

I'm sorry, but I'm from a semi-rural area and whenever I hear HAL speak of the "Half Moon" room, I think of only one thing. Yes, we used one.

[wander]

Most of our cruises are at least 14 days so there is less likelyhood of there being a large group on board. However, once several years ago there was a group (about 1/3rd of the ship I would guess) on on a 14 day cruise, but my only "issue" with the group being onboard was that they were given all of the tables for six or more at both sittings. Since I always prefer a table for 6 or 8, I was disappointed at first, but we did meet a very pleasant couple at our table for four. We also had a lovely window table.

The Group had many lectures and discussion panels, but they used the showroom and Theatre when nothing else was happening in them. They were noticable because they all wore ID tags full time - needed them to get into their activities. I imagine that they had some social gatherings, but they never interferred with any thing or place I wanted to enjoy.

Group members had paid a hefty supplement (I saw one of their ads) to the cruise fares to go with the group because, within their area of interest (political leanings), they had six or more very well known (but aging) folks on board as speakers and panel members. While politically I generally lean in the opposite direction from members of this group, this issue never came-up that I heard of. They did their thing and others did theirs.

[kryos]

Thanks for posting this list. VERY helpful to anyone who wishes to avoid the large charter. Doesn't matter to me WHO the charter is.....I don't want to be aboard with ANY group which has substantially chartered the ship. It happened to us once and it was VERY unpleasant.

I think it very unfair of HAL to hold that info to themselves and 'set us up' by selling the remaining 10% or such of the cabins to unsuspecting, very unlucky cruisers.

Templeton Tours is another outfit that charters the HAL ships, but I think they just take the whole ship. Believe me, it's probably best they do since they close all the bars and turn the casino into a Christian book store during their cruises. They also replace all of the entertainers with Christian artists. I doubt the cruiseline would allow them to do that unless they chartered the entire ship.

Personally, I wouldn't mind taking one of these cruises through either Inspiration or Templeton, since the speakers are usually well known pastors who have nationwide radio ministeries. I listen to several of them on a regular basis and am blessed by their teachings. The only problem I have with these cruises is that they are either to destinations I don't care for, or the cruise length is too short to make it worth it to fly down to Florida to catch the cruise.

But, believe me ... Christian cruises are big business and quite a draw. I would imagine sharing a ship with such a group could present challenges in that one "off color" remark could generate a lot of unfriendly stares. :)

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

They might "expect" 500 - 700, but I bet that one will garner around 300-350 cruisers ( just my estimate after working with such groups - this one is "Women of Faith" - so you would have some Hubby's staying at home or not participating in a lot of functions. )

A word of advice: buy your cabin right after their release date - good chance the price will drop. :D
I would imagine Women of Faith could probably fill the ship if they wanted to. They host conferences all over the country which are well attended.

Believe me, if they were going someplace warm ... and not Canada/New England ... I'd be signing up for that cruise.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

Wow, that's alot of charters... thank you for posting this, it will be very helpful to many who are planning on booking in 2005.

I am happy to say that I don't see my upcoming cruise on the list. I am not a fan of charters or escorted cruises...

Here's another charter:

May 28 through June 4th -- Oosterdam.

http://www.marynorth.com/mauiwriters.html

For what it's worth, I went on something similar last March ... on the Rotterdam ... a ten-day Panama Canal cruise. We actually wrote a book comprised of essays from each of the Writer's Challenge participants. It's called "Ship's Log ... Writings at Sea." I have a non-fiction essay included.

While we were a large group (three separate tracts of the same group) I don't think we were an imposing one. All of our lectures and workshops were held in rooms that were normally not used during the day and, if anything, I think we helped reduce crowding in the public areas (such as the pool) ... especially on sea days since that is when most of our workshops were held.

I think that just because a group will be sailing on a given ship, it's not necessarily a bad thing. Guess it all depends on the group. A Christian group would probably be okay, as would certain affinity groups. Except for the last night of the cruise, when the instructors from our group took over the Pinnacle and I doubt anyone else was able to get reservations during that time period, I don't think we impaired the quality of anyone else's cruise. I only wish I could do this upcoming one next year, but it just doesn't work out with my schedule.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[sail7seas]

We once cruised with a Templeton group. As I remember it, I think they were into Jazz and had brought their own band aboard with them. The group was large but not so large they had the numbers to shut down any lounges or exclude 'regular' pax from any public areas....that we noticed.

We became acquainted with the Templetons and they put us on a mail list. For some years later, we continued to receive mailings from time to time. I am assuming this is the Canadian group about which you are speaking.

That 'group experience' was not bad and we chatted with and got to know a few of their cruisers.


On the other hand, we once cruised with a very large group (about which we had no knowledge in advance of boarding) and it was AWFUL!!! It was a very negative experience and hope to never endure such again. When we bought our cruise, we did not know we were only buying use of about 30% of the ship for 30% of our time aboard (ten days). The only place we were absolutely sure we could sit/use/enjoy was our own cabin. Any time we stepped out of our cabin door, we expected to be turned away from whatever it was we wished to do.
That is NOT ACCEPTABLE to anyone and IMO HAL has no right doing that to pax.

[Esme]

:confused: Sail - I believe the Templeton group is a religious group - don't think they would be bringing a Jazz band with them.

http://www.templeton.org/

I used to see ads in the Canadian :confused: newspapers from the former Brotherton Travel agency, advertising Jazz cruises. Is this maybe what you are getting mixed up with?

[kryos]

:confused: Sail - I believe the Templeton group is a religious group - don't think they would be bringing a Jazz band with them.

According to their website, that Templeton agency often does bring their own musicians with them ... so, conceivably it could have been some sort of Jazz group ... Christian jazz. :)

Blue skies ...

--rita

[tomc]

"When the saints go marching in"?

[uncialman]

There is a bit of a differnce between Templeton Tours and the John Templeton Foundation.

Templeton Tours was founded by Maurice Templeton who used to put together a lot of Holy Land Tours for Christian Organizations. He eventually branched out into other areas of travel including cruises.

Templeton Tours does not have any musicians contracted specifically through them. Templeton consults with whatever Ministry is sponsoring the group and finds appropriate Christian Musicians to 'fill the bill' with the Ministry. Currently, Templeton is chartering the smallest of Carnival ships out of Jacksonville with a bunch of consolidated SBC pastors for a short cruise, has a large group on board the Pride of Aloha with the Gospel group 'Greater Vision' (Good luck on that one! I would give it a year before putting anyone on that ship), and has a large group with Charles Stanley on the Amsterdam in Alaska. So, all in all, they are actually moving less passengers than the company I own is moving this year...

I currently have groups with the Southern Baptist Convention Founders, Dr. James White and Alpha and Omega Ministries, Christian Musician Steve Camp, a large financial services organization, a consolidated group of ministries to Israel, and a Christian radio station out of Orlando.

As far as "looks" from Christians for off color remarks - I certainly hope not. I would hope that most Christians are mature enough to not expect non-Christians to act like Christians...

Christians have a hard enough time themselves removing the giant logs out of their own eyes to worry about others...

[dakrewser]

My DW reminds me that, some years ago, we were on a cruise with a large religious group. They were led by a couple we dubbed "The guru and the goddess". He dressed in flowing silks with a turban and a large ankh around his neck while she sported a tiara and gossamer-like robes. Both tended to sit on the floor in the lotus position, avoiding chairs. (except at meals) The 30 or so followers all appeared to me normal, sane people and they never tried to proselytize us. But they did provide a colorful parade from time to time!


-dave

[HeatherInFlorida]

Hi Marc! Just a little tip if you ever need to correct something and it's too late to "edit" ... you can simply "quote" your own post and fix it in there. Then your message can simply say ... "Above shows the correction". I'm here to help;) .

And I sure wish there was an easy way to find out when groups of over 100 are going to be on a ship BEFORE we book it. Although I will say Geek Cruises had a huge number on our last cruise and it didn't get in the way of anything. And they were everywhere!

[ekerr19]

But, believe me ... Christian cruises are big business and quite a draw. I would imagine sharing a ship with such a group could present challenges in that one "off color" remark could generate a lot of unfriendly stares. :)

All the more reason to avoid them, in my opinion. We are on vacation, who needs it?

[tomc]

Yeah, but we shouldn't be saying anything indelicate to people we don't know. We never know a stranger's tolerance for various types of humor. I don't like political swipes, for instance, no matter who is in office, but I am more tolerant of mildly off-color stuff. Use a racial or minority term in my presence and you'll be swimming with the dolphins, but I don't mind good-hearted religious jokes. Others have different standards. Ships aren't the place to find out what they are.

[ekerr19]

Christians have a hard enough time themselves removing the giant logs out of their own eyes to worry about others...Unfortunately this has not been our experience - which is why we avoid these cruises and will continue to do so.

We have our own beliefs and do not wish to cruise with others that feel it necessary to believe in theirs...

[uncialman]

Unfortunately this has not been our experience - which is why we avoid these cruises and will continue to do so.

We have our own beliefs and do not wish to cruise with others that feel it necessary to belive in theirs...

Hey ekerr!

I was attempting to state that Christians need to do a little bit of work with themselves before they judge those that do not share their faith. If others have violated this rather basic Scriptural mandate, I am truly sorry.

However, the statement:

We have our own beliefs and do not wish to cruise with others that feel it necessary to belive in theirs...

has me a bit mystified. We *all* have our own beliefs and feel it necessary to both live by and hold to our belief systems or violate our own conscience. Whether one be a Hindu, Christian, Atheist or whatever, we all still need to tolerate one another in the purest sense of the word.

Hopefully, we can. I truly respect you ekerr!

[HeatherInFlorida]

Uncialman, if I may jump in here in defense of EKerr, I don't think she meant to say she has a problem with people "believing" in their religion. I think she meant to say she doesn't want them to "inflict" their beliefs on her.

I think she mistyped. She'll let us know if I'm wrong.

[Typhoon1]

Do you know anything about the Stonecroft Ministries group on Westerdam 13 -20 Feb? :confused:

Enjoy Phil, after a week of that you'll be ready for the RSVP group on the 20th. See you then. :D :D

[thulewx]

I cancelled out of the RSVP trip - personal reasons... :(

[ekerr19]

Uncialman, if I may jump in here in defense of EKerr, I don't think she meant to say she has a problem with people "believing" in their religion. I think she meant to say she doesn't want them to "inflict" their beliefs on her.

I think she mistyped. She'll let us know if I'm wrong.
Heather-

You are correct. :) Thank you - I have been swamped this weekend and just checked in. I do have a hard time with those who believe their religion is the only one on the planet.

I don't force my views on anyone - and hope I would receive the same treatment in return. :) Unfortunately it is not always the case.

[tomc]

When my religion starts giving us a "finder's fee," then I'll start going around the ship with leaflets. Till then, enjoy the cruise and love one another. Oh, and book early so the God of your understanding may persuade the Upgrade Fairy to bump you up a few categories. If you need to practice, start praying now for my June 25 - July 2 b2b NE/C; I'm a single share K Cat looking for an upgrade to B or higher. Thanks in advance.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Heather-

You are correct. :) Thank you - I have been swamped this weekend and just checked in. I do have a hard time with those who believe their religion is the only one on the planet.

I don't force my views on anyone - and hope I would receive the same treatment in return. :) Unfortunately it is not always the case.
Agree, EKerr! It's kind of like politics. I don't tell anyone how to vote either;) .

[Orcrone]

Agree, EKerr! It's kind of like politics. I don't tell anyone how to vote either;) .Heather.

We appreciate that you don't tell anyone who to vote for, but after the 2000 elections I don't think that anyone in Florida should tell someone how to vote.:D

Disclaimer: This is a joke and does not represent my view of the voters in Florida.;)

[Giorgi-one]

I am a Catholic and very tolerant of all faiths. I understand that we should pray every day and I usually do. But the last thing in the world we need is arguing about religion on a cruise ship or even on a cruise message board.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Heather.

We appreciate that you don't tell anyone who to vote for, but after the 2000 elections I don't think that anyone in Florida should tell someone how to vote.:D

Disclaimer: This is a joke and does not represent my view of the voters in Florida.;) I'm assuming you're questioning my grammar (cushioned with a :) ) ... however, I believe my grammar was correct when I used the word "how" in the sentence. I was using it as a conjunction as in the definition "in whatever way or manner". You're using it as an adverb as in what "method". Since I had absolutely no problem understanding how to use the voting machine (a very simple process), I've never gotten that big a kick out of the jokes.

[tomc]

=ding=

time

[Orcrone]

I'm assuming you're questioning my grammar (cushioned with a :) ) ... however, I believe my grammar was correct when I used the word "how" in the sentence. I was using it as a conjunction as in the definition "in whatever way or manner". You're using it as an adverb as in what "method". Since I had absolutely no problem understanding how to use the voting machine (a very simple process), I've never gotten that big a kick out of the jokes.Heather,

Sorry if I offended you. I was not questioning your grammar. It was not directed at you, just an attempt at levity regarding the problems with the election in Florida in 2000. I'd assume that you had no problem using the voting machines, and if you did I would not have known that anyway. I will keep this in mind if my sense of humor cares to respond to any future posts of yours.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Now, Marc, look who's being sensitive now? Once again, I think sometimes the joke doesn't come through when it's just words on a page. What you probably said in all good humor came across as snide even though you cushioned it with "just a joke".

Just so you know, when DH decides to by sarcastic with me and is actually trying to get a point across, he ends it with .... "I was only kidding". I don't laugh at him either;) .

Please forgive ... you and I have always had a really good relationship on these boards and I don't want to mess that up now. In fact, I've always loved your humor!

Maybe us guys living in Florida are a little over sensitive about that debacle!:D

[Orcrone]

Heather, I'll vote for that.;) (Sorry, couldn't resist).

[HeatherInFlorida]

:eek: AWWWWWWK. Marc, you're a dead man!!!!!!:D

[Orcrone]

:eek: AWWWWWWK. Marc, you're a dead man!!!!!!:DSorry, if you want to kill me you'll have to take a number.:D