Cruising in Japan vs Nuclear situation

[Bellair]

We would wonder what developments will take place with cruise plans as Japan tries to fix the nuclear plant situation.

ie our Kobe to Vancouver in May plus others due

One would wonder why these plants are built in earthquake prone areas!

Our prayer goes out for those caught up in this terrible tragedy and for a safe fix for the plant.

[mudscraper]

Every square inch of Japan is an earthquake prone area.

[Philip217]

We would wonder what developments will take place with cruise plans as Japan tries to fix the nuclear plant situation.

ie our Kobe to Vancouver in May plus others due

One would wonder why these plants are built in earthquake prone areas!

Our prayer goes out for those caught up in this terrible tragedy and for a safe fix for the plant.

The distance from the Fukushima Nuclear Plant to Kobe is about the same as the distance from Three Mile Island Nuclear Plant to New York City.

Would you have cancelled or changed a cruise to NYC due to the Three Mile Island meltdown (far worse than the Fukushima problem, and one of the worst nuclear accidents in history)?

Why would Japan build nuclear plants in earthquake prone areas?
For the same reason they do it in California.
EVERYWHERE in Japan and California is earthquake prone.
Japan is the most seismically active place on Earth.
USGS website lists 294 earthquakes in Northern Japan in the past 36 hours.

Since we are questioning such things and you are obviously worried, I might ask why you would choose to visit a country that has so many earthquakes and so many nuclear plants?

[brucory]

Would you have cancelled or changed a cruise to NYC due to the Three Mile Island meltdown (far worse than the Fukushima problem, and one of the worst nuclear accidents in history)?


The extent of the damage in japan to this and its other nuclear power plants is unknown at this stage, so musing about comparatives to other disasters or its affect on future cruises are probably not very productive at the moment.

As this is unravelling, how about we focus on what help we can give to that country and spare a thought for the thousands of people still missing...

:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

[Philip217]

I am sitting in my hotel room in downtown Tokyo as I type this.
As usual the CNN propaganda machine has blown this event out of all proportion.
The tsunami damage is isolated in a relatively small area up north.
The nervous nellies are all assuming that the entire country is destroyed.
I'm going out for lunch and a bit of shopping.............

[mariner]

Ships won't call at any port that's still repairing from the damage. Frankly, the port doesn't want a boatload of passengers getting in the way.

As for the nuke fallout, they didn't pass out iodione pills at TMI. Called my brother in Phillipines today and told him to watch the winds closely.

Just a terrible tragedy.

Japan can and will rebuild. And we'll all get a lesson in markets come Sunday.

[Cathy-CA]

Thank you, Philip, for your reporting. We are booked on the April 14 Singapore to Kobe cruise, so I have been watching events unfold with interest. As a lifelong Californian who has ridden out many a quake and a former employee of a nuclear power plant, I was already taking the news stories with rather large grains of salt, so it's nice to have you confirm my skepticism.

[Bellair]

Our ship's planned route is Kobe-Tokyo (Yokohama) - Hakodate (right past the effected area) Kurushu & onto Kodiak Island....want to come along!!

Naturally it is early days & the main focus is not on our cruising but on the poor people devistated in the area.

As a professional video producer, I have filmed over a dozen times in Japan & loved every minute of it and yes having been thru earthquakes in various countries including California. My question is that in view of the situation, should it get worse, does one travel into such an area.

The distance from the Fukushima Nuclear Plant to Kobe is about the same as the distance from Three Mile Island Nuclear Plant to New York City.

Would you have cancelled or changed a cruise to NYC due to the Three Mile Island meltdown (far worse than the Fukushima problem, and one of the worst nuclear accidents in history)?

Why would Japan build nuclear plants in earthquake prone areas?
For the same reason they do it in California.
EVERYWHERE in Japan and California is earthquake prone.
Japan is the most seismically active place on Earth.
USGS website lists 294 earthquakes in Northern Japan in the past 36 hours.

Since we are questioning such things and you are obviously worried, I might ask why you would choose to visit a country that has so many earthquakes and so many nuclear plants?

[ricki]

I am sitting in my hotel room in downtown Tokyo as I type this.
As usual the CNN propaganda machine has blown this event out of all proportion.
The tsunami damage is isolated in a relatively small area up north.
The nervous nellies are all assuming that the entire country is destroyed.
I'm going out for lunch and a bit of shopping.............

I can only imagine the horror and terror of those in Japan affected by the quake, tsunami and subsequent nuclear power plant problems. It is a disaster of major proportions. How can you minimize the loss of life,homes, livelihoods and infra-structure, that affect so many? Even if it is a "relatively small area," it impacts thousands upon thousands of people. It is overwhelming to consider the work that needs to done just to provide shelter, food and medical care, not to mention power, transportation, etc. Japan is a country in mourning and the people of Japan deserve help from the nations of the earth and our prayers.

Ricki

[peaches from georgia]

The only thing I can think to say right now is "Have you no shame?".

Originally Posted by Philip217
I am sitting in my hotel room in downtown Tokyo as I type this.
As usual the CNN propaganda machine has blown this event out of all proportion.
The tsunami damage is isolated in a relatively small area up north.
The nervous nellies are all assuming that the entire country is destroyed.
I'm going out for lunch and a bit of shopping.............

[mariner]

I can tell you this much. The video and stills that I see, that you don't, are way too disturbing to show. There isn't a horror movie that comes close to the reality.
The media gets blamed for much these days. But in this case, Im glad we're not showing everything.

[CtheW0rld]

The only thing I can think to say right now is "Have you no shame?".



ditto.

[CruiserBruce]

I might point out, that at this point, the essential construction of the nuclear power plant has not failed due to the earthquake. So building a nuclear power plant in an earthquake zone is really not the issue. As mentioned, all of Japan is a earthquake zone, and the Japanese import 100% of their oil. Hydroelectric would be a fairly small amount of power generation, as is solar. Japan is an advanced society. Where are they to get electricity from?

Power outages to the plant caused the cooling systems pumps to fail. The question, at least at this time, will not be if construction standards were sufficient, but whether back up power systems were adequate.

[cruisin'girl]

Thank you, Philip, for your reporting. We are booked on the April 14 Singapore to Kobe cruise, so I have been watching events unfold with interest. As a lifelong Californian who has ridden out many a quake and a former employee of a nuclear power plant, I was already taking the news stories with rather large grains of salt, so it's nice to have you confirm my skepticism.
I seriously doubt you have been in anything near an 8.9 quake since I believe there have only been 4 of that magnitude since earthquakes have been measured and none like that in CA. And you've been in a tsunami of that force and power? Would love to know what you are questioning or not believing that you are seeing with your own eyes.

[mudscraper]

Thank you, Philip, for your reporting. We are booked on the April 14 Singapore to Kobe cruise, so I have been watching events unfold with interest. As a lifelong Californian who has ridden out many a quake and a former employee of a nuclear power plant, I was already taking the news stories with rather large grains of salt, so it's nice to have you confirm my skepticism.
Unreal. One town has more than 9500 citizens missing.

[GarySuzy]

Because my DW is Japanese we are watching the NHK leads coming from Japan. This is not anything to make light of, about an hour ago it was reported that over 300 bodies were found - they are waiting for the Japanese Self Defense Forces to confirm this. Also, Miyagi - which has over 9,500 people missing is an area that my DW visited 3 years ago and made a lot of friends that are now missing.

Phillip217 are really in Japan??????

[mariner]

They need our prayers and aid. The news is only going to get worse for the next few weeks.

Not sure I care where Phillip is as long as it's not a HAL ship.

[ger_77]

Our son lives in Tokyo; yesterday he arrived safely at his apartment 20 hours after leaving work, a commute that usually takes him 2.5 hours by train. He walked about 20 of the 35 miles, but was just glad to be at home. This morning he and his bride of 3 months went out to buy emergency supplies and this is what they found at the grocery store near their apartment:

http://inlinethumb52.webshots.com/44915/2798977390046068627S425x425Q85.jpg (http://news.webshots.com/photo/2798977390046068627fPollU)

It should be noted that most people living in Japan don't watch American television, so are not subject to the "CNN propoganda", they are doing what they need to in extraordinary circumstances.

Smooth Sailing! :):):)
Gerry

[sail7seas]

Ger 77....... Best Wishes your son and his bride stay safe. What a terrible worry for you.
Our thoughts are with all those coping in such tragic circumstances and for the missing and deceased and their families.

[ger_77]

Thanks Sail, yes we had a pretty emotionally draining day yesterday, wondering if/when/how he would be able to make it back to their apartment.

We also pray for those in the Northern part of Japan who have lost loved ones - words can't describe what we are seeing on television. The effect of the tsunami is unbelievable in its destructiveness.

Smooth Sailing! :):):)
Gerry

[mancunian]

We are on the same cruise as Bellair and CathyCA. I am really too concerned about Japan and its people to worry about it at this stage. One thing however, I am sure of, HAL will not risk its ship and passengers if there is any danger. Whatever will be, will be.

Let us meantime just concentrate on the terrible repercussions of this disaster to families, homes, jobs and economy.

[Australian family]

Thank you, Philip, for your reporting. We are booked on the April 14 Singapore to Kobe cruise, so I have been watching events unfold with interest. As a lifelong Californian who has ridden out many a quake and a former employee of a nuclear power plant, I was already taking the news stories with rather large grains of salt, so it's nice to have you confirm my skepticism.

After watching 60 minutes Australia tonight, and seeing the story of a scientist who reckons that we are in for more earthqaukes in the Pacific, you better hold on, as you don't know where the next big one will strike. Maybe you will take notice if it hits close to home.

And if you take it with a grain of salt, why have so many people died and many left homeless? Or is the media playing a movie, I don't think so.

My thoughts and prayers go to the people in Japan.

[Oceanwench]

I am sitting in my hotel room in downtown Tokyo as I type this.
As usual the CNN propaganda machine has blown this event out of all proportion.
The tsunami damage is isolated in a relatively small area up north.
The nervous nellies are all assuming that the entire country is destroyed.
I'm going out for lunch and a bit of shopping.............

And did you dismiss the impact of Hurricane Katrina because, after all, it only affected "a relatively small area" of the US?

Don't blame the media for blowing this "event" out of proportion. They haven't.

You, on the other hand, have minimized the impact of a MAJOR earthquake which has brought large-scale destruction and loss of life to Japan.

[world~citizen]

And did you dismiss the impact of Hurricane Katrina because, after all, it only affected "a relatively small area" of the US?

Don't blame the media for blowing this "event" out of proportion. They haven't.

You, on the other hand, have minimized the impact of a MAJOR earthquake which has brought large-scale destruction and loss of life to Japan.

It is very likely that the situation was unclear at the time this post was written. Tokyo was not affected as Northern Japan was. Of course, it is getting a good sense of it now.

The friends we have in Japan (closer to Tokyo than Sendai) seem to be communicating growing bewilderment. But they are alright.

This is one of those times you just wish you could do something. Any Americans in Tokyo should stay in touch with their embassy, as should Canadians and other nationals.

If I were a religious person, this would be a good time to pray for all concerned.

[cruisin'girl]

IT IS VERY LIKELY THAT THE SITUATION WAS UNCLEAR AT THE TIME THIS POST WAS WRITTEN.

Tokyo was not affected as Northern Japan was. Of course, it is getting a good sense of it now.



Clearly the situation was not at all unclear when the post we are talking about was written. It was written last night (ET), barely 12 hrs ago. Poster talks of watching CNN, so had seen on tv exactly what the other posters on here had seen, was only about 100 miles from the point of impact of the earthquake and the tsunami and had access to news reports in Japan. He knew all we knew and even more than we did and obviously felt it was of little importance and greatly exaggerated. Some may agree with him, but please don't make excuses for his uncaring attitude that the gravity of the situation was unclear.

[Hlitner]

Thank you, Philip, for your reporting. We are booked on the April 14 Singapore to Kobe cruise, so I have been watching events unfold with interest. As a lifelong Californian who has ridden out many a quake and a former employee of a nuclear power plant, I was already taking the news stories with rather large grains of salt, so it's nice to have you confirm my skepticism.

Well, guess its nice for you that you can take such an event with such a "grain of salt" especially as it develops that 10s of thousands of people have been killed. One wonders what would happen if such a quake hit the Bay area....but we guess you would also take this with a grain of salt as many buildings would look like a pile of salt. I should mention that we can see the cooling towers of TMI from our front lawn, and we were here during that accident. That being said, this disaster will not affect your cruise to Kobe so you need not concern yourself....just keep counting your "grains of salt." As for me, my heart goes out to all the people of Japan (we lived in Japan for 2 years). The magnitude of this disaster (and the reaction of some folks here) really show us just how small people are when compared to mother nature.

Hank

[world~citizen]

...but please don't make excuses for his uncaring attitude that the gravity of the situation was unclear.

I didn't think I was trying to excuse the post as much as put it in perspective.

CNN international is a little different than domestic...I get international where I am, and when RT was discussing the nuclear reactor at Fukushima, CNN International was running something about Golf with Rolex. I know. I checked.

Japanese TV, ( I lived there for a number years) would have played this down as much as possible. Still, the OP would have been there for the earthquake and aftershocks.

Its just the he is not the problem, its the earthquake, and all the suffering.

Smooth sailing...

[HeatherInFlorida]

Wow. I'm speechless. When does that ever happen? It has to be pretty bad for that to happen, but unfortunately I'm not surprised.

I'm so happy that Philip217 can have his lunch and shop. There's one in every crowd, isn't there? Oh! I'm okay .... so no biggie. I'll just go about my business. Take a moment to reflect on your thoughts, Philip217, before you actually form words out of them and put them in print.

[cruisin'girl]

I didn't think I was trying to excuse the post as much as put it in perspective.

CNN international is a little different than domestic...I get international where I am, and when RT was discussing the nuclear reactor at Fukushima, CNN International was running something about Golf with Rolex. I know. I checked.

Japanese TV, ( I lived there for a number years) would have played this down as much as possible. Still, the OP would have been there for the earthquake and aftershocks.

Its just the he is not the problem, its the earthquake, and all the suffering.

Smooth sailing...
Clearly Philip said that "CNN had blown this event out of all proportion", so he was getting the coverage that we saw and heard, but said they were exaggerating.

[cruisin'girl]

They need our prayers and aid. The news is only going to get worse for the next few weeks.

Not sure I care where Phillip is as long as it's not a HAL ship.
Well, you might consider looking for another cruiseline then. Philip I believe is well-known to many on this HAL board.

[dockrocker]

Well, you might consider looking for another cruiseline then. Philip I believe is well-known to many on this HAL board.

I wouldn't assume that Philip has ever been on a HAL ship or is anywhere near Tokyo. He has a tendency to jump into conversations touting a personal authority/expertise--professional, geographical, etc.--that is never borne out by the content of his comments.

[Cathy-CA]

I apologize if I offended anyone. I am not trying to minimize the impact for people directly affected by the quake or tsunami, but news has made it sound like Tokyo was impacted more than my personal experience would've had me believe. My experience with earthquakes (the largest was a 7.2 that bounced us out of bed) is that severe damage tends to be limited to the area closest to the epicenter. Tokyo is 230 miles away from the epicenter.

[ironin]

I apologize if I offended anyone. I am not trying to minimize the impact for people directly affected by the quake or tsunami, but news has made it sound like Tokyo was impacted more than my personal experience would've had me believe. My experience with earthquakes (the largest was a 7.2 that bounced us out of bed) is that severe damage tends to be limited to the area closest to the epicenter. Tokyo is 230 miles away from the epicenter.

All of my friends who live in Tokyo report very minor damage. They were all definitely inconvenienced the first day, but many were back at work as normal the next. All of them are also voluntarily conserving electricity as a result of the problems with TEPCO plants in Fukushima. Some have said that they expect some type of mandatory savings to be instituted soon, and, perhaps, water conservation measures. While all of them are quite concerned about their fellow citizens, they are all also going about their lives.

I could be wrong, but your original comment struck me as a well-intended jibe at the excessive sensationalism and irresponsible speculation that so often typifies modern media saturation coverage.

[IRL_Joanie]

I didn't think I was trying to excuse the post as much as put it in perspective.

CNN international is a little different than domestic...I get international where I am, and when RT was discussing the nuclear reactor at Fukushima, CNN International was running something about Golf with Rolex. I know. I checked.

Japanese TV, ( I lived there for a number years) would have played this down as much as possible. Still, the OP would have been there for the earthquake and aftershocks.

Its just the he is not the problem, its the earthquake, and all the suffering.

Smooth sailing...

Just as an FYI, on the 2 that I highlighted in the post, not directed at you sir, whom I respect very greatly, just that you mentioned them in the same post is all:)

OK, I need to preface this by saying the following:

I am a Die Hard FOX News person!! Now, before the flames start, PLEASE read what I have to say:cool:

I had my TV turned to FOX for about 10 minutes, before realizing that they were not and I repeat NOT focusing on what really mattered of the Earthquake and Tsunami Devastaion!! They were more focused on trying to keep the Libya situation and political matters in front of what was really important to so many people watching the news.

I decided to put the TV over to.... shudder... the Opposition Chanel of CNN and WOW!!! I was amazed!! They actually were more concerned for the people of Japan than anyone else on the news channels!!!

My TV has not left CNN since about 8 a.m. (MST) Friday.

As to Japanese TV Coverage, I have had HNK TV out of, I believe, Tokyo on one of my browser tabs and check it at least once an hour. Their coverage has been outstanding and not what I would have expected. By the last statement, as stated by world~citizen, whom I highly respect, "...would have played this down as much as possible..." They are covering it quite extensively.

FOX News needs to learn to cover the world news that matters to us, not just focus on Political matters.

CNN Thank you for your continued excellent coverage of this horrific devastion and another kudo(s) for all the media covering is the lack of focusing, as you did in Indonesia, the bodies. I appreciate the knowledge that there are so many that persihed in the earthquake and the Tsunami, but I appreciate more not seeing their poor bodies on TV. You have learned well from prior disasters:)

To Philip and others, I am sorry that you feel the way you do, but taking this with a grain of salt is wrong.

Joanie

[world~citizen]

...They are covering it quite extensively.
[/COLOR][/FONT]

They are covering it 24 hours in fact. I expressed myself poorly. I didn't mean to say that they were playing down the earthquake and Tsunami, but that they were very conservative with the news respecting the power reactor problems.

A lot of people live within 120 miles of Fukushima (I think Sendai is in there) and the last thing Japanese authorities would do is spook people. Where would they go? How would they get there?

I have to admit I admire the Japanese response to this tragedy. Citizens are are calm, civil and mindful of each others welfare. Talk about class and bravery.

The Japanese have them both.

Thanks for the kind words.

[Australian family]

I apologize if I offended anyone. I am not trying to minimize the impact for people directly affected by the quake or tsunami, but news has made it sound like Tokyo was impacted more than my personal experience would've had me believe. My experience with earthquakes (the largest was a 7.2 that bounced us out of bed) is that severe damage tends to be limited to the area closest to the epicenter. Tokyo is 230 miles away from the epicenter.

Do the areas North of Tokyo not matter? Whole towns have been wiped out, and thousands missing.

Also what about the rural areas that have been affected, this is where food comes from.

We also heard last night that many factories have been destroyed, I heard 6 Sony factories. This is where people go to work.

[brucory]

I wouldn't assume that Philip has ever been on a HAL ship or is anywhere near Tokyo. He has a tendency to jump into conversations touting a personal authority/expertise--professional, geographical, etc.--that is never borne out by the content of his comments.

You have got that right. Often these comments are pompous, rude, belittling, and snobbish. They don't usually phase me, as I realize some people like to use the anonymity of the internet to boost themselves up onto whatever pedestal they need to be on, gloating away at their own self importance.

THAT all said, I have no tolerance for his garbage in relation to this instance. I spoke to family about his post (We rarely/never discuss website blogs/threads) and all of them had their jaws on the floor, horrified, particularly as we were watching footage of people returning to their wiped out areas, and the expectations of the death toll rising to above 10,000.

[sail7seas]

My DH and I were watching coverage together about an hour ago. We saw a young mother reunited with her toddler son. She had not known if he was alive or dead.

We saw another woman who had been searching for her mother. She and her husband found Mom in a shelter and were together again.

If someone can watch that and not be moved, it couldn't be more sad.

To know the shape of the country is different, to know this event is so huge they don't yet know if nuclear reactor(s) are melting down, they haven't begun to total how many dead and missing........

It takes ones breath away.

But no problem? :confused:
Maybe the shock of this horror was too much for some people to process. Perhaps it's a case of 'denial'?? How else can one explain it? It's impossible to know how anyone can be so cavalier.

[mariner]

I believe Phillip's employment has been in uniform on HAL ships, if I recall correctly.

[mariner]

A word about media coverage: There is no hyping a story of this magnitude. In responsible newsrooms, there is an awful lot of restraint exercised with these types of stories. The unfiltered footage is worse than even what you're seeing. Frankly, we're running out of adjectives.

[ironin]

I am sitting in my hotel room in downtown Tokyo as I type this.
As usual the CNN propaganda machine has blown this event out of all proportion.
The tsunami damage is isolated in a relatively small area up north.
The nervous nellies are all assuming that the entire country is destroyed.
I'm going out for lunch and a bit of shopping.............

Unlike just about everyone else who has commented, when I read this second comment to this thread by Philip217, I thought it indicated extreme frustration more than anything else.

As usual the CNN propaganda machine has blown this event out of all proportion.

At the time that was written, I was witnessing all kinds of wild claims posing as news and fact being publicized by theoretically reputable western media outlets.

The tsunami damage is isolated in a relatively small area up north.

This statement was an accurate representation of the facts then known.

The nervous nellies are all assuming that the entire country is destroyed.

I imagined this to be a reaction to some of the initial coverage and other commentary which I, too, found highly indiscriminate, often ill-informed, and occasionally bordering on apocalyptic. (JMO - not his)

I'm going out for lunch and a bit of shopping.............

IOW, "Why I am I wasting time sitting here arguing with people worried about what might possibly happen two months from now?"

Of course, I could be wrong. I've never met the man and probably never will. Almost everyone else who has damned him here hasn't met him, either. But I do know in which country he makes his permanent home, so I find it hard to believe he is the insensitive ogre portrayed.

Usual caveats apply: YMMV. JMO.

[Hlitner]

I am sitting in my hotel room in downtown Tokyo as I type this.
As usual the CNN propaganda machine has blown this event out of all proportion.
The tsunami damage is isolated in a relatively small area up north.
The nervous nellies are all assuming that the entire country is destroyed.
I'm going out for lunch and a bit of shopping.............

I do find it hard to hold my tongue after reading this rubbish (great British word). The "relatively small area" is actually a pretty large area of at least 1000 square miles. Sendai is a "relatively small" city of more then 1 million souls? We will not even speculate about the problems at several nuclear power plants and hope that the Japanese can get this under control without any harm to the public or environment (we live within the sight of the TMI cooling towers). We have been watching news coverage here in the USA and have seen nothing that talks about the "entire country being destroyed." In fact, reports on CNN and Fox have consistently reported that Tokyo had almost no damage. To be blunt, this seems to be more a case of the "Phillip Propoganda Machine." Perhaps Phillip needs to shop for a muzzle :) The Japanese are in our prayers and heart (we loved the two years we lived in Northern Japan) and we wish them well.

Hank

[mariner]

There's a certain sense of saying, after 9/11, 2 buildings fell down.

One could say a bit of British stiff upper lip or a complete disconcect.

I don't judge.

But words are what they are. A wordsmith might choose better.

[DizzyDallasDi]

There's a certain sense of saying, after 9/11, 2 buildings fell down.

......and a plane crashed into the Pentagon and another plane crashed in a field in Pennsylvania. We will never forget.

[mariner]

No. For those of us who lost friends, never.

And our circle grows with each act.

[world~citizen]

...How else can one explain it? It's impossible to know how anyone can be so cavalier.



I think that is the point.

I have contacts in Tokyo who tell me that that the residents there were "shaken but not stirred" by the quake on the first day - some more than others. Now, people are pretty much back at work in Tokyo - I won't say things are normal of course. They are fully aware of the magnitude of the disaster.

I think I can understand if the OP was unaware of the magnitude disaster at the time of his post - away from home, in a hotel as he was. In any event, to not allow him the benefit of the doubt might point to him being some kind of monster and that is a conclusion I prefer not to draw.

Might lead to a Cruise Critic cyber lynch.:eek:

The real story of this thread is the suffering that (we can now all agree) the people of Japan now face: a second explosion at a nuclear facility, search and recovery efforts for loved ones, a shortage of shelter, poorly stocked stores and a crippled infrastructure to resupply them, aftershocks and the threat of new tsunami.

A lot of questions will arise out of this for us as well, especially related to the question of safety of nuclear power reactors.

This is a time for generosity and humility.

[jhannah]

Getting back to the theme of the OP, it's being reported on MSNBC that hightened levels of radiation have been recorded by U.S. ships offshore. I am confident that all ships at sea will keep abreast of the situation and steer clear of the known or forecast path of the airborne contamination.

[Cruz'n Couple]

I agree that this thread needs to get back to the OP's point--wonder what is going to happen?

I have been so upset about the horrible tragedy that just keeps spinning out of control in Japan. Believe me, I can understand the situation there, because as a Red Cross volunteer I have seen and been directly in the front line in lots of places within our United States (including 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina). My husband has also worked in a nuclear power plant in the US. My sincerest sympathies are with the entire country of Japan.

That being said, it is still of concern to those of us who are scheduled either for the Singapore/Kobe or Kobe/Vancouver or the combined cruise to know how this will be handled. Is HAL going to #1 -continue with the entire cruise after dry dock into Vancouver, #2 - cancel portions or all of the cruise, or #3 - change the itinerary (although how I can't figure out)????? Who knows if the docks in Yokohama are in service, and how does the Japanese government feel about a whole ship load of visitors. Everyone scheduled on the Volendam from April 14 through May 18 has a lot tied up in knowing what the decisions in Seattle are going to be.

This, IMHO, is the whole point of this thread, not trying to figure out someone's remarks. If I have offended, sorry! The Japanese people and their country should be the primary focus.

[Host Walt]

Please stay on topic; which is a discussion of the impact of the disaster in Japan on the cruise industry and on itineraries that include Japanese ports.

[NordicPrince]

We would wonder what developments will take place with cruise plans as Japan tries to fix the nuclear plant situation.

...

One would wonder why these plants are built in earthquake prone areas!



This is not a problem which is isolated to Japan. For example, in 1962 the Con Edison power company constructed a nuclear facility at Indian Point New York which is only 24 miles north of New York City, home to 7 million residents and a total of 10 million in the surrounding areas. The plant is located on a known geological fault line. Recently a previously undiscovered fault line was located 1 mile north of the facilities there. Why would anyone build a nuclear facility there?

Because modern society requires electricity. Same in Japan.

Electricity is the lifeblood that NYC needs. Indian Point supplies 30% of the electricity requirements for New York. It costs money to transmit electricity over power lines. The longer the distance transmitted the more it costs and the less power can be delivered. Simple dollars and cents, risk vs. reward. In reality there is no commercially feasible way of generating electrical energy which does not have its own set of risks and rewards. Burn fossil fuel and release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. (Indirectly we should probably stop cruising because after all we burn fuel to cruise. But this is an accepted trade-off.)

The Indian Ocean earthquake of 2004 was measured at 9.2. The resultant tsunami killed 204,000 people in 14 different countries. Yet it seems that
that has faded from memory.

The Haiti earthquake of 2010 was measured at 7.0 and was estimated to have killed 200,000 people with a million people left homeless. It also seems that this has faded from memory. The type of buildings in Haiti greatly contributed to the high fatalities.

It is a fact of life that natural disasters happen and when they do we can only hope that the authorities have made the proper calculations and the proper preparations for the unforeseen.

It does seem that with the constant barrage coming from multiple media sources that one outlet tries to "out-hype" the other and every disaster becomes the Armageddon. I think this is the point that some posters were getting to, not that they were minimalizing the tragedy of the current events.

The whole thing begs the question; why are we so concerned about whether one or two cruise ships is going to skip a scheduled stop? Call HAL, they'll let you know what they decide.

In the interim, we should ask ourselves, even though small in our relative personal significance, how can we be of assistance to our fellow man. I hope I can overcome my own personal inertia and get to doing something of value which assists the unfortunate victims of this tragedy.

[world~citizen]

Please stay on topic; which is a discussion of the impact of the disaster in Japan on the cruise industry and on itineraries that include Japanese ports.

Point well taken.

For many though, it seems inappropriate to discuss itinerary revisions against the background of the tragedy that motivated the question.

A good case can be made for removing the thread, and perhaps start another when the situation settles a bit in Japan.

Just an observation.

I have a friend who resides just outside of Tokyo who supplements his retirement income by guiding shorex pax on cruise ships visiting Japan. He is concerned for the income he is going to lose (which he needs), yet feels shamed to harbour such concerns knowing the scope of the human tragedy that surrounds him.

Same thing on this board - some have concerns but are vexed to voice them knowing their problems are pretty insignificant in the great scheme of things.

We are all cruisers, but we are all human beings as well.

Smooth sailing to you...

[world~citizen]

Getting back to the theme of the OP, it's being reported on MSNBC that hightened levels of radiation have been recorded by U.S. ships offshore. I am confident that all ships at sea will keep abreast of the situation and steer clear of the known or forecast path of the airborne contamination.

Its a no brainer that HAL will not sail PAX into an unsafe situation.

It would be a good idea just the same, I would think, for people to keep an eye on the situation, particularly if flights are involved and they are making independent arrangements.

As far as the radiation situation is concerned, information at this time is so incomplete and contradictory that we just can't evaluate it at this time.

Smooth sailing...

[bepsf]

...I find it hard to believe he is the insensitive ogre portrayed.

Quite so.

After all, folks in Lake Tahoe were shopping, water skiing and gambling after the big Northern California/San Francisco earthquake in 1989 -
- of course, Tahoe is 188 miles away: exactly the same distance from Tokyo to Sendai.

Now Kobe - where cruiseships typically dock in Japan - is 397 miles away from Sendai: That's roughly the same distance San Francisco is from Los Angeles...
...yet I was completely unaffected by the big Northridge earthquake in 1994.

[dockrocker]

Quite so.

After all, folks in Lake Tahoe were shopping, water skiing and gambling after the big Northern California/San Francisco earthquake in 1989 -
- of course, Tahoe is 188 miles away: exactly the same distance from Tokyo to Sendai.

Now Kobe - where cruiseships typically dock in Japan - is 397 miles away from Sendai: That's roughly the same distance San Francisco is from Los Angeles...
...yet I was completely unaffected by the big Northridge earthquake in 1994.

I'd somehow forgotten about the huge tsunami that swept into California after that quake. There were entire large towns/cities wiped out, tens of thousands of people missing and thousands of bodies washing up with the tide, just like in Japan, right? Wait, what?

The point is that if "Philip" wanted to comment that Tokyo was less affected that many had thought, there are ways to do that. B i t c h y comments about a little lunch and shopping are beyond the pale in light of what's happening elsewhere in Japan. If someone in Tokyo remains "completely unaffected" by what's going on in, say, Sendai, that person is wired wrong.

[bepsf]

I'd somehow forgotten about the huge tsunami that swept into California after that quake. There were entire large towns/cities wiped out, tens of thousands of people missing and thousands of bodies washing up with the tide, just like in Japan, right? Wait, what?

The point is that if "Philip" wanted to comment that Tokyo was less affected that many had thought, there are ways to do that. B i t c h y comments about a little lunch and shopping are beyond the pale in light of what's happening elsewhere in Japan. If someone in Tokyo remains "completely unaffected" by what's going on in, say, Sendai, that person is wired wrong.

Well, you got me there...
...but I guess my point is - Sendai is a long way from Tokyo: What do you expect the guy to do?

[ricki]

Well, you got me there...
...but I guess my point is - Sendai is a long way from Tokyo: What do you expect the guy to do?

Not be so flippant and cavalier when probably tens of thousands of people have lost their lives and part of a country has been destroyed!!

I am blown away by the callousness of some of the posters on this board!

Ricki

[dockrocker]

What do you expect the guy to do?

Really, this isn't hard.

Like I said above, all anyone is expecting him to do is ditch the sarcasm and snark in this case.

[ironin]

A gentle reminder:

Please stay on topic; which is a discussion of the impact of the disaster in Japan on the cruise industry and on itineraries that include Japanese ports.

[tworetirees]

I am following these posts and while I too feel terrible for the people in Japan, I am booked on the HAL Asia-Australia Grand Voyage in Sept. 2012 -- long time away. Is it insensitive of me to ask if you would be willing to share contact information for your friend who lives outside of Tokyo? I would be more than willing to try to set up a group tour on our message board and give him our business. If you prefer not to do so, I understand. This is in reference to the post by World~Citizen.

[Karennella]

Perhaps the point trying to be made was not that the tragedy is not enormous but that to assume that the whole of a country or region is affected by an event to part of it, may only make matters worse.
We in Australia have just lived through a summer of dreadful natural disasters; immense flooding in the north in Queensland, a category 5 cyclone, bushfires in the west followed by the devestating earthquake in Christchurch NZ, our close neighbours. The media coverage seems to have been non-stop and at times literally was.
The tourist industry in Queensland in particular has experienced enormous rates of cancellations in the areas which were not damaged at all. The state government has just launched a big advertising campaign to encouage the return of tourists at Easter, as by this stage only a small area is non-operational and the economy is very reliant on tourism.
It is much too early to assess the impact on Japan as a whole, but I would think that when the authorities deem it safe to travel there, it would be helpful to the country to do so and not disrespectful.

[peaches from georgia]

News today from Japan certainly is increasing concerns about cruising in and around Japan in the near future. Has HAL said anything about their April Asian cruise or have other cruiselines? Not sure if there is one in March or not as March is not showing on the HAL website.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

The only HAL ship that will be near Japan in the near future is the Volendam arriving in Nagasaki April 30th

04/30/11SatNagasaki, Japan

05/01/11SunAt Sea

05/02/11MonKOBE, (OSAKA) JAPAN

05/03/11TueAt Sea

05/04/11WedYokohama (Tokyo)

05/05/11ThuYokohama (Tokyo)

05/06/11FriAt Sea

05/07/11SatHakodate, Japan
05/08/11SunKushiro

[Tampa Girl]

The point of this post is beginning to elude me. If anyone is genuinely concerned about HAL sailing their ships into danger zones, one should not be sailing HAL or any other cruise line. Of course HAL will not put their ships, their staff, and their passengers at risk. Sit tight and see what develops. An alternative itinerary would be developed, if necessary.

[Krazy Kruizers]

The point of this post is beginning to elude me. If anyone is genuinely concerned about HAL sailing their ships into danger zones, one should not be sailing HAL or any other cruise line. Of course HAL will not put their ships, their staff, and their passengers at risk. Sit tight and see what develops. An alternative itinerary would be developed, if necessary.

exactly -- hal is not going to put any ship at risk, or their staff or their passengers

hal does the same thing during hurricane season - we had our itinerary changed last fall -- some people were upset with the itinerary change but hal was more concerned with the ship, crew and passenger safety

[Copper10-8]

The point of this post is beginning to elude me. If anyone is genuinely concerned about HAL sailing their ships into danger zones, one should not be sailing HAL or any other cruise line. Of course HAL will not put their ships, their staff, and their passengers at risk. Sit tight and see what develops. An alternative itinerary would be developed, if necessary.

Outstanding post, thanks!

[Tampa Girl]

Outstanding post, thanks!


You are most welcome!

[ironin]

The point of this post is beginning to elude me. If anyone is genuinely concerned about HAL sailing their ships into danger zones, one should not be sailing HAL or any other cruise line. Of course HAL will not put their ships, their staff, and their passengers at risk. Sit tight and see what develops. An alternative itinerary would be developed, if necessary.

Well said. Like any other cruise line, Holland America will make the appropriate decisions at the appropriate time and inform the passengers when those decisions have been made.

Frankly, the appropriateness and point of this entire thread eluded me from the moment I first saw it appear. While I understand those few people booked aboard the Volendam are concerned about their trip in May, speculating about what may or may not happen, or where the ship may go, struck me as tasteless and insensitive. As the drama at Fukushima continues to unfold, it seems even more inappropriate to me, but then I talk to people in Japan every day, so I may be overly sensitive about the subject.

While this may be the place, this doesn't seem the time to me. The ports being visited by the Volendam all survived the earthquake intact, although there was minor damage in Hakodate. Up until yesterday, the rolling blackouts to conserve electricity were expected to last through mid-April. As we've seen, all that could change in an instant. For all anyone knows, a 10 point earthquake could hit Tokyo tomorrow.

Those who have chosen to showily profess their understanding, compassion and sympathy for those directly affected in Japan in the abstract might want to ask themselves why they found it impossible to provide any of the same to the obviously distressed sole commenter here personally enduring the disaster and its aftermath. For better or worse, as Host Walt said above, this thread was supposed to be about the impact of the disaster in Japan on the cruise industry.

Aside to tworetirees:
IMO, there's nothing insensitive about your question. It's a good one. But then, my opinion is decidedly unpopular here, so take it with a grain of salt ;)

Karennella:
Thank you for understanding. Thanks, also, to world~citizen.

Brian:
I'd be happy cruise with you any where any time.

[ironin]

Addendum to my comment just above:

Apologies to Nordic Prince for not thanking you as well for your perceptive contribution. Much appreciated.

(That part got lost while editing)

[bepsf]

Brian:
I'd be happy cruise with you any where any time.

Ditto!

Lest I come off as unfeeling - I lived in Japan for two years in the early 90's and truly feel for those folks...
...but if there's a people who can move past such a terrific disaster w/ determination, dignity & honor (No looting! No riots for food & water! No blaming the government!) - it's the Japanese.

[Lady Chew]

...but if there's a people who can move past such a terrific disaster w/ determination, dignity & honor (No riots!No looting! ots for food & water! No blaming the government!) - it's the Japanese.

that, to me, has been one of the most amazing aspects of this tragedy ... may we all take a lesson from their behaviour in the face of catastrophe

[IRL_Joanie]

Ditto!

Lest I come off as unfeeling - I lived in Japan for two years in the early 90's and truly feel for those folks...
...but if there's a people who can move past such a terrific disaster w/ determination, dignity & honor (No looting! No riots for food & water! No blaming the government!) - it's the Japanese.

Amen!! I have been amazed at the people of Japan during this horrendous natural disaster!!

Somethings that I have noticed of everyone is that they are being so civilized but also they are always saying "Hi" which I believe is Thank you. They are always so calm and stoic. They are not railing against anyone, at least not in public.

I know that I wish we could learn from the Japanese on how to react in the case of such a disaster instead of how we reacted for Katrina.

Joanie

[ironin]

that, to me, has been one of the most amazing aspects of this tragedy ... may we all take a lesson from their behaviour in the face of catastrophe

Speaking of which, I'm not sure how much play this astounding video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZy8Lsd3hgs) has received due to its length. Shot by a Kesennuma (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kesennuma,_Miyagi) resident, it shows a trickle becoming a torrent destroying the town in a little over 6 minutes. There is no narration, rendering it an all the more moving demonstration of the inexorable power of the sea.

I don't know about you, but I think it took great courage to stand there and film that. (A pre-tsunami Google street-view of the area filmed is available here (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=kesennuma&aq=&sll=38.277809,141.015701&sspn=0.102146,0.191574&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Kesennuma,+Miyagi+Prefecture,+Japan&ll=38.899016,141.578236&spn=0.005928,0.025685&t=h&z=16&layer=c&cbll=38.899021,141.578228&panoid=ZU--NQExOOwqoysPg7ax4Q&cbp=11,25.32,,0,7.56).)

For anyone interested in what is currently being broadcast in Japan, the NHK World TV English language service is available here (http://www.ustream.tv/channel/nhk-world-tv).

[dockrocker]

they are always saying "Hi" which I believe is Thank you.

Hai means yes. The word for thank you is arigato.

[bepsf]

they are always saying "Hi" which I believe is Thank you.

Actually, "Hai" translates as "Yes" -
- but in common use, it more often is intended to mean "I Understand/I hear you" more of then than the defininite affirmative - despite the verb "Wakarimasu" literally & formally meaning "I Understand".

[jhannah]

- but in common use, it more often is intended to mean "I Understand/I hear you" more of then than the defininite affirmative ... You got it. That's one of the first pitfalls they teach you to avoid if you start doing business in Japan.

[Hlitner]

When I lived in Japan (in the late 60s) trying to learn conversational Japanese was lots of fun (probably because I was young). The word "Hai" is used in ways that does not translate....and I remember my language instructor telling me its not just the word but how you say it. Many Japanese men will say "Hai" with lots of authority! :) As to Arigato that was another lesson. To say thanks you had "Domo" or "Arogato: (more formal) or "Domo Arigato gozaimasu" (the most polite and formal). But, many times we would hear folks say, "Hai Domo" for thanks. Now I realize this has nothing to do with cruising, but its fun to try and remember this stuff forty years later. Warkarimasu ka?

Hank

[world~citizen]

So desu ne.

[Copper10-8]

So desu ne.

Ahso

[dockrocker]

Now I realize this has nothing to do with cruising, but its fun to try and remember this stuff forty years later.

It is fun. All the permutations and nuances and idiomatic shadings of language are fun.

[maxout]

So desu ka :D

[Copper10-8]

So desu ka :D

Mata kite ne

[maxout]

Mata kite ne

Tanoshimou ne !! ;) :p :D

[maxout]

Actually I should say.

Zannen desu

Did not mean to disrespect those in this time of tragedy.

[PirateShark]

Nice new St. Paddy's avatar there Copper ;) I'll give you a taste of the Irish with the following "toast" for making my day:

"May your enemies have itching without benefit of scratching" (my grandmother taught me that little ditty - she who rarely drank a dram)

Raise a pint and may the bonny ocean always be calm and the winds fair :)

[world~citizen]

The good news is the uranium is decaying in the reactors and should become more manageable, the bad news is there is a new fire.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Ditto!

Lest I come off as unfeeling - I lived in Japan for two years in the early 90's and truly feel for those folks...
...but if there's a people who can move past such a terrific disaster w/ determination, dignity & honor (No looting! No riots for food & water! No blaming the government!) - it's the Japanese.

Of all the posts on this thread, this is the one that stands out for me and obviously for others. This is what has impressed me throughout this ordeal for the Japanese people ... their amazing fortitude and strength which to me seems to be one of the worst disasters a people, as a whole and individually, can suffer. I'm so happy Brian posted this.

I understand that people are concerned about their cruises, their itineraries in coming months. But whether or not any ship will call at this port or that in the areas around Japan is the absolute least of it.

[world~citizen]

Ditto!

Lest I come off as unfeeling - I lived in Japan for two years in the early 90's and truly feel for those folks...
...but if there's a people who can move past such a terrific disaster w/ determination, dignity & honor (No looting! No riots for food & water! No blaming the government!) - it's the Japanese.

The Japanese are a little pre-occupied right now, but already it is clear there are a lot of questions that are going to be asked, and the answers are going to be unpleasant.

Dai-ichi will not be able to finesse its way out of this. The Japanese are an honest and trusting people, but they are not stupid, and that trust is broken.

The ramifications of that may roll over Japanese society like another tsunami.

Smooth sailing...

[bepsf]

See the CC News Article here:

http://www.cruisecritic.com/news/news.cfm?ID=4414 (http://www.cruisecritic.com/news/news.cfm?ID=4414)

[Cruz'n Couple]

I agree that this thread needs to get back to the OP's point--wonder what is going to happen?

I have been so upset about the horrible tragedy that just keeps spinning out of control in Japan. Believe me, I can understand the situation there, because as a Red Cross volunteer I have seen and been directly in the front line in lots of places within our United States (including 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina). My husband has also worked in a nuclear power plant in the US. My sincerest sympathies are with the entire country of Japan.

I have thought long and hard before I replied again, but I feel that I still have some valid points to make. I probably will be ridiculed, slammed, and flamed for this response, but here goes.

When I was noting that I had some questions about what was going to happen, it was based on my experience as a Red Cross volunteer. Believe me, the victims of a disastrous tragedy nor the people trying to assist them in recovery need a bunch of unwanted gawking tourists. This only delays and sometimes truly hurts the recovery process.

I also was questioning whether HAL could properly provision a ship which has already been underway for 17 days from Singapore. Japan is a country currently undergoing food shortages and God Forbid that necessary and life-saving food be taken away from the Japanese people to provision a cruise ship.

This particular itinerary isn't one that can be "shuffled" around much. It is three stops in Japan then over to Alaska! Guess we can roam the Pacific a few more days besides the already 6 straight days between Kushiro and Kodiak Island--ya think?

I know that HAL will not put their crew, passengers, or ship in harm's way. Personally, I am not afraid of sailing, but I wonder about the wisdom of sailing into such a disaster zone.

Lastly, we are not people who can book several cruises a year, financially. We had planned (and saved) for this cruise and it was to be a very special cruise for us. My husband's 75th birthday and our 40th anniversary are both in the upcoming summer months, so this was to be our celebration. We have several thousand dollars already tied up in this cruise, and if it isn't going to go, then if the cruise is cancelled, we will start looking elsewhere for a cruise we would like to take.

We still are hoping that things will be in a good place for the Japanese people to welcome visitors, and that HAL will do best by it's passengers, but having questions about this cruise doesn't make us insensitive to the situation.

If I have said the wrong thing, then maybe I am sorry, but don't think so. I was foremost thinking about the disaster relief situation, and then wondering how this cruise fit into the picture.

[schoolinmy3]

I have thought long and hard before I replied again, but I feel that I still have some valid points to make. I probably will be ridiculed, slammed, and flamed for this response, but here goes.

...We still are hoping that things will be in a good place for the Japanese people to welcome visitors, and that HAL will do best by it's passengers, but having questions about this cruise doesn't make us insensitive to the situation.

If I have said the wrong thing, then maybe I am sorry, but don't think so. I was foremost thinking about the disaster relief situation, and then wondering how this cruise fit into the picture.

Very well put. If I were in your position I would be thinking the same things as you. I don't believe you are insensitive at all. Obviously the situation is dire in Japan but on the practical side you do have plans that are most probably going to be affected by the disaster. I do hope for your sake that you are able to come to a decision soon. In the meantime I am sure we all are deeply concerned about the plight of the Japanese, as you are as well.

Diane

[bepsf]

We have several thousand dollars already tied up in this cruise, and if it isn't going to go, then if the cruise is cancelled, we will start looking elsewhere for a cruise we would like to take.

Oh, the cruise will definitely go.
The line isn't going to cancel a cruise and let the ship sit at a pier for any length of time just because of 3 ports...

If you look at the adjustments that other lines are making to their schedules, you'll see that they are diverting to China and Korea and offering cancellation/compensation - HAL will certainly do similar.

As far as provisioning, HAL is likely to provision anything (not even fuel) from Japan as that country's costs are higher than almost anywhere else on the planet.

[traveling mama]

Cruz n Couple! You wrote your views perfectly!!! And I"m with you on all of them.

I too am worried and concerned for the people there and also for me and how I need to run my life as well.

I live in S. Cal....so who knows..."there but for you go I"

The world she be a shruggin!!!

[ironin]

Oh, the cruise will definitely go.
The line isn't going to cancel a cruise and let the ship sit at a pier for any length of time just because of 3 ports...

If you look at the adjustments that other lines are making to their schedules, you'll see that they are diverting to China and Korea and offering cancellation/compensation - HAL will certainly do similar

From HAL's website today:

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Japan Travel Advisory


At Holland America Line, the safety of our guests and crew is our top priority. We are actively monitoring the situation in Japan related to the upcoming ms Volendam sailings scheduled to depart April 14th from Singapore and May 2 from Kobe (Osaka). Alternative itineraries are currently being evaluated and we fully understand there may be a need to cancel calls in Japan. If changes are required, we anticipate making that decision the week of March 21st. Should future itinerary changes be made, affected guests and travel agents will be notified immediately.

(Source (http://www.hollandamerica.com/news/Main.action))

[traveling mama]

Thank you HAL!!!! I now have some info and feel much better!

[world~citizen]

Thank you HAL!!!! I now have some info and feel much better!

Was there ever any doubt?

[GarySuzy]

Since we are on the the cruise starting 2 May this did interest us, I was on the Princess boards today and Princess has canceled all calls to Japan through May> http://www.princess.com/news/article...ticleId=na1153 (http://www.princess.com/news/article.jsp?newsArticleId=na1153) is the link to the article.

My question is how long does it take to get visas if we end up going to other ports that require them? (I.E. China, or Russia).

My in-laws who live in Kyushu called and stated everything was fine with them and for us to cancel the cruise and just come stay with them.

[traveling mama]

Oh Lord I hope this not happen for us. Im all for going and on the Fodors bb there is much advice as to why we should go!!!

The rest of Japan is functioning, they all need our biz, etc etc I understand we might have to simplify things or even some power may not yet be restored.......but we are still 6 1/2 weeks from departure and I think most things will be just fine.

It might be a more serious minded trip.....but that is good too. I live in S. Cal and we all feel...."there but for you go I!" and we are not feeling real cocky right now.....but waiting for the other shoe to fall!!!

[CtheW0rld]

Since we are on the the cruise starting 2 May this did interest us, I was on the Princess boards today and Princess has canceled all calls to Japan through May> http://www.princess.com/news/article...ticleId=na1153 (http://www.princess.com/news/article.jsp?newsArticleId=na1153) is the link to the article.

My question is how long does it take to get visas if we end up going to other ports that require them? (I.E. China, or Russia).

My in-laws who live in Kyushu called and stated everything was fine with them and for us to cancel the cruise and just come stay with them.

well, you don't just 'show-up' in china. i got an expedited one in 3 days. cost a lot more $$$, though.

[GarySuzy]

well, you don't just 'show-up' in china. i got an expedited one in 3 days. cost a lot more $$$, though.

Thanks CtheWOrld,

I kind of thought it was going to cost a lot, hope we get the option of switching cruises.

[world~citizen]

Oh Lord I hope this does not happen for us. Im all for going and on the Fodors bb there is much advice as to why we should go!!!

You can't rule it out I am afraid.

Smooth sailing...

[Kween Karen]

Just to say I am reading this thread with interest.........it is very interesting to see the different comments and thoughts posted here. This is such new news and my jaw is dropping at the devastation I have seen in the videos.

[woodofpine]

Some of last week's posters posited, 1) disaster way overblown, 2) nuclear 'problem' minor (Three Mile Island far worse...) sensationalist American media.

Today - 20,000+ dead or missing confirmed... and the nuke spin doctoring remains amazing - and not by the 'sensational' US media - but by the initial 'no problem' then quiet nuke industry. TMI was nothing to make light of, but there were no hydrogen explosions, blown open containment buildings, or remote water drops into blown open containment at TMI. No that similarity goes to Chernobyl...

But - the Japanese are nothing if not organized and diligent. The cruise industry's customers have no place in this workout except to stay out of the way - and I presume passenger ships will likewise avoid the westerly weather flowing from those reactors.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Yet some cavalier posts remain while others that criticized that attitude have been removed leaving a somewhat unbalanced view of the overall feeling following the earthquake and tsunami. This was a major disaster and I think the majority of the posters here recognized that.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Should there be any doubt at all in anyone's mind about the level of devastastion caused to parts of Japan by this horrific earthquake and Tsunami, these satellite photos tell the story better than anyone ever could.

On each photo there is a slider which you move from the center to the right and then to left to see the full before and after satellite photos. It's quite an eye opener.

http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2011/03/13/world/asia/satellite-photos-japan-before-and-after-tsunami.html?hp

I understand this is not cruise related, but for many of those posting on this thread it might prove interesting and I hope the CC moderators will leave the link.

[world~citizen]

Should there be any doubt at all in anyone's mind about the level of devastastion caused to parts of Japan by this horrific earthquake and Tsunami, these satellite photos tell the story better than anyone ever could.

On each photo there is a slider which you move from the center to the right and then to left to see the full before and after satellite photos. It's quite an eye opener.

http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2011/03/13/world/asia/satellite-photos-japan-before-and-after-tsunami.html?hp

I understand this is not cruise related, but for many of those posting on this thread it might prove interesting and I hope the CC moderators will leave the link.

Well it is cruise related as it does show what Japan is up against and why we may reasonably expect more ports of call to be cancelled.

Rolling power outages will be going on for a long time, and reconstruction efforts are going to be slow but steady.

Who knows what the reactor situation is.

[ger_77]

I think this is definitely cruise related - my son (living in Tokyo) just sent me a link to the Japan Quake Map which shows where they were located and what strength. In the week since the major earthquake there have been 687 aftershocks , some of them quite major.

http://www.japanquakemap.com/

Some of us going onshore will find ourselves rocking like we are still on the ship - can you imagine what would happen if we were in a store in Japan and the ground started rocking and rolling while we were doing out own little version of it? Yikes! I really don't think any cruise line would want to put their passengers through something like that.

Smooth Sailing! :):):)

[traveler964]

We all agree that there has been a terrible disaster in Japan, one that will have far-reaching effects. Now, with all of this, why hasn't HAL said anything about cruises that have scheduled stops in Japan?

We are scheduled to depart Singapore on April 12 on the Volendam, with 8 days in and around Japan. I am waiting to hear from HAL as to what other arrangements they have made, as obviously we are not about to dock in a port where there is a danger of radiation contamination. If they try to say it is safe I think they are nuts!

[world~citizen]

We all agree that there has been a terrible disaster in Japan, one that will have far-reaching effects. Now, with all of this, why hasn't HAL said anything about cruises that have scheduled stops in Japan?

We are scheduled to depart Singapore on April 12 on the Volendam, with 8 days in and around Japan. I am waiting to hear from HAL as to what other arrangements they have made, as obviously we are not about to dock in a port where there is a danger of radiation contamination. If they try to say it is safe I think they are nuts!

Its a good point.

I know that some shorex guides usually hired for April excursions in and around Japan have been told of cancellations, but they do not normally work with HAL. The line they do work with has not posted itinerary changes.

I would call HAL directly and get the latest information from them. I can say though, that we were booked on a cruise once with a stop at Casablanca. I phoned a week before final payment and I was assured there was no foreseeable reason to cancel that port - they were surprised I would even ask. One week after final payment, the port was cancelled.

That is the part of cruising I like least. There you have it though. One thing I am certain of - they won't sail you into harms way.

All the alternate ports to Japan I am sure will be truly exotic and interesting, and whatever itinerary you end-up with will be the stuff of life-long memories.

However it goes, Bon Voyage and smooth sailing...

[chgogirl33]

I'm a first time poster. Does anyone have verifiable knowledge about whether Holland America will postpone or cancel their May cruise to Japan? HAL stated they would have an announcement this week but nothing has appeared. My parents are booked for the cruise but being Japanese feel we should all be respectful and let the Japanese take care of getting things back to normal. Any guidance or leads would be very helpful.

I respect that Holland America wants to make money but my fear is that they may want to do so at the "cost" (possible radiation contamination) of their customers and staff. The longer they are silent the more nervous it makes me that they won't do the right thing and give their customers the option of postponing at a nominal fee. Again any information is desparately wanted and would be appreciated.

[world~citizen]

I respect that Holland America wants to make money but my fear is that they may want to do so at the "cost" (possible radiation contamination) of their customers and staff. The longer they are silent the more nervous it makes me that they won't do the right thing and give their customers the option of postponing at a nominal fee. Again any information is desparately wanted and would be appreciated.

I understand your concern.

There is not a change in hades - zip - nada - nil - that HAL will put their passengers, crew or vessels in a dangerous situation. Full stop. Won't happen.

So rest easy.

Smooth sailing...

[peaches from georgia]

I'm a first time poster. Does anyone have verifiable knowledge about whether Holland America will postpone or cancel their May cruise to Japan? HAL stated they would have an announcement this week but nothing has appeared. My parents are booked for the cruise but being Japanese feel we should all be respectful and let the Japanese take care of getting things back to normal. Any guidance or leads would be very helpful.

I respect that Holland America wants to make money but my fear is that they may want to do so at the "cost" (possible radiation contamination) of their customers and staff. The longer they are silent the more nervous it makes me that they won't do the right thing and give their customers the option of postponing at a nominal fee. Again any information is desparately wanted and would be appreciated.
HAL will not put their passengers at any risk. However, they will not cancel or postpone your parents' cruise. What they probably will do is change the ports in Japan to other destinations if the scheduled Japanese ports are either in a danger zone or a port is unable to conduct business as usual. It is not normal procedure of cruiselines to give their customers the options of cancelling or postponing their cruise. According to cruise contracts the cruiseline does not guarantee sailing to any particular port and the cruiseline is free to change to other destinations at any time.

Assuming your parents have already made final payment do they have "cancel for any reason" insurance so that they could cancel and get all or a portion of their money back from the insurance company if they wished to not take this cruise without the Japanese ports?

[traveler964]

While I am sure that HAL will not be sailing me and my family into danger,
this type of catastrophe (radiation) is something new to contend with. The reports of spreading radioactive contamination keep coming in, with the "danger zone" getting larger and larger.
I think that HAL needs to say something NOW as to what it plans to do - even if they are not complete - if for nothing else just to show they are aware of the situation and are addressing it as best they can. It has been two weeks since the disaster, and not a word out of HAL - they need to say something quickly - there is a lot of anxiety out there!

[ironin]

While I am sure that HAL will not be sailing me and my family into danger,
this type of catastrophe (radiation) is something new to contend with. The reports of spreading radioactive contamination keep coming in, with the "danger zone" getting larger and larger.
I think that HAL needs to say something NOW as to what it plans to do - even if they are not complete - if for nothing else just to show they are aware of the situation and are addressing it as best they can. It has been two weeks since the disaster, and not a word out of HAL - they need to say something quickly - there is a lot of anxiety out there!

The cruise departs from Kobe. AFAIK, there is absolutely no evidence of significant radioactive contamination spreading to Kobe, the start point for your cruise and over 400 miles away from Fukushima. Do you have other information? For that matter, have you seen anything to indicate that Yokohama or Hakodate are within the "danger zone"? IIRC, Yokohama is within the rolling blackout area.

HAL has already said something (see above (http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showpost.php?p=28379731&postcount=93)). Other than a similar statement, you probably aren't going to hear anything else unless and until they change the route. What do you want them to say that they haven't already said? "We might go here or we might not?" "We might go there or we might not?" Sounds a lot like that would only add to your anxiety. If you purchased trip insurance, you might want to contact the issuer to find out about your options.

[traveler964]

While I am sure that HAL will not be sailing me and my family into danger,
this type of catastrophe (radiation) is something new to contend with. The reports of spreading radioactive contamination keep coming in, with the "danger zone" getting larger and larger.
I think that HAL needs to say something NOW as to what it plans to do - even if they are not complete - if for nothing else just to show they are aware of the situation and are addressing it as best they can. It has been two weeks since the disaster, and not a word out of HAL - they need to say something quickly - there is a lot of anxiety out there!
================================================
Well, sports fans - it looks like HAL has stepped up to the plate and hit a home run!
Just received an e-mail detailing the changed route for the cruise, substituting ports in Korea & Russia. Also detailed was an offer to allow cancellation w/ very generous refund.

[Bellair]

Japan Travel Advisory



Holland America Line has made revisions to the April 14th and May 2nd sailings of the ms Volendam as a consequence of the recent events in Japan. While the situation there is improving on a daily basis, there remains much recovery work to be done in the northern region. As such, upcoming scheduled calls to Northern Japan have been canceled including Yokohama (Tokyo) on May 4-5; Hakodate on May 7; and Kushiro on May 8. In their place, we have scheduled calls in Korea and Russia. The new itinerary for the affected segment of the sailing is as follows:



May 2nd:Kobe (Osaka), JapanMay 3rd:Scenic cruising Inland Sea of JapanMay 4th:Busan (Pusan), South KoreaFull DayMay 5th:At SeaMay 6th:Vladivostok, Russian FederationFull DayMay 7-9th:At SeaMay 10th:Petropavlovsk (Kamchatka),
Russian FederationFull Day



After May 10th the schedule reverts back to the published itinerary.
Port calls to Nagasaki (April 30th) and Kobe-Osaka (May 2nd) in southern Japan will operate as scheduled. These areas are hundreds of miles southwest of the Fukushima nuclear plant and well beyond the 50 mile precautionary area originally recommended by the U.S. and Japanese governments. While we remain confident in travelling to southern Japan, guests may also refer to the U.S. Department of State website for their most recent statement.
Although we always try to maintain our published itineraries, we believe these changes are prudent in light of recent events. Japan is a large country with many areas that are completely safe to visit. At the same time, there are areas which need more time to recover.
We are confident that our guests will enjoy the interesting and unique new ports on this portion of our revised itinerary. As well, we will handle all arrangements and costs for Russian visas. There is no action required on the part of our guests. No special visas are required in Korea. We appreciate our guests understanding of this situation and patronage of Holland America Line. It is always our goal, however, to ensure that our guests have a choice in their cruise experience. Therefore, if a guest on the April 14th or May 2nd sailing of the ms Volendam wishes to cancel, they may do so with a full refund of all components of their booking purchased from Holland America Line if their request is received by April 4th, 2011. Affected guests and their travel agents are being notified of these changes.
To show our solidarity with the people of Japan and assist with their rebuilding efforts, Holland America Line will deliver a check for $25,000 to the Japanese Red Cross during our call in Kobe on May 2.

[ironin]

Japan Travel Advisory

Holland America Line has made revisions to the April 14th and May 2nd sailings of the ms Volendam as a consequence of the recent events in Japan. While the situation there is improving on a daily basis, there remains much recovery work to be done in the northern region. As such, upcoming scheduled calls to Northern Japan have been canceled including Yokohama (Tokyo) on May 4-5; Hakodate on May 7; and Kushiro on May 8. In their place, we have scheduled calls in Korea and Russia. The new itinerary for the affected segment of the sailing is as follows:

May 2nd:Kobe (Osaka), JapanMay 3rd:Scenic cruising Inland Sea of JapanMay 4th:Busan (Pusan), South KoreaFull DayMay 5th:At SeaMay 6th:Vladivostok, Russian FederationFull DayMay 7-9th:At SeaMay 10th:Petropavlovsk (Kamchatka),
Russian FederationFull Day

After May 10th the schedule reverts back to the published itinerary.
Port calls to Nagasaki (April 30th) and Kobe-Osaka (May 2nd) in southern Japan will operate as scheduled. These areas are hundreds of miles southwest of the Fukushima nuclear plant and well beyond the 50 mile precautionary area originally recommended by the U.S. and Japanese governments. While we remain confident in travelling to southern Japan, guests may also refer to the U.S. Department of State website for their most recent statement.
Although we always try to maintain our published itineraries, we believe these changes are prudent in light of recent events. Japan is a large country with many areas that are completely safe to visit. At the same time, there are areas which need more time to recover.
We are confident that our guests will enjoy the interesting and unique new ports on this portion of our revised itinerary. As well, we will handle all arrangements and costs for Russian visas. There is no action required on the part of our guests. No special visas are required in Korea. We appreciate our guests understanding of this situation and patronage of Holland America Line. It is always our goal, however, to ensure that our guests have a choice in their cruise experience. Therefore, if a guest on the April 14th or May 2nd sailing of the ms Volendam wishes to cancel, they may do so with a full refund of all components of their booking purchased from Holland America Line if their request is received by April 4th, 2011. Affected guests and their travel agents are being notified of these changes.
To show our solidarity with the people of Japan and assist with their rebuilding efforts, Holland America Line will deliver a check for $25,000 to the Japanese Red Cross during our call in Kobe on May 2.

Two weeks (ten business days) after the earthquake and Holland America managed to negotiate with countries not on the scheduled sailing for port privileges, revise the itinerary to avoid the affected areas entirely, provide for the necessary visas without trouble or cost to the passengers, allow full refunds to those who don't want to go because of the changes, and promptly communicate all this to all involved in a timely manner.

Their generous contribution to Japan earthquake relief is also noteworthy.

Kudos to HAL for a job well done!

[Bellair]

This is the reason we travel with such a professional group.

For those traveling on this leg, here are some video's of the new ports

Enjoy!


Highlights of Vladivostok Russia
http://youtu.be/QPGWCbRl-Lc

Highlights of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy
http://youtu.be/oe2m6b7iVIs

Great UK documentary on area:
http://youtu.be/26iq5165DYY

Busan-Korea highlights:

http://youtu.be/_9cNZpmPATw

http://youtu.be/u9YFQaqjWLE

[tokyo1949]

Can I ask who has advised you of the changes to this cruise. I have heard nothing and neither has my travel agent. the HAL website still shows the message posted 17/3/2011

[Cruz'n Couple]

Travel Advisories page of HAL website has this info. From some on the two Roll Calls, it seems that currently it is only on the US website, and not showing on the other websites yet.

[Bellair]

The updated information showed up on our HAL site that we access in Australia as from yesterday AET.

Can I ask who has advised you of the changes to this cruise. I have heard nothing and neither has my travel agent. the HAL website still shows the message posted 17/3/2011

[IRL_Joanie]

NEWS

Travel Advisories



Friday March 25, 2011

Japan Travel Advisory


Holland America Line has made revisions to the April 14th and May 2nd sailings of the ms Volendam as a consequence of the recent events in Japan. While the situation there is improving on a daily basis, there remains much recovery work to be done in the northern region. As such, upcoming scheduled calls to Northern Japan have been canceled including Yokohama (Tokyo) on May 4-5; Hakodate on May 7; and Kushiro on May 8. In their place, we have scheduled calls in Korea and Russia. The new itinerary for the affected segment of the sailing is as follows:


May 2nd: Kobe (Osaka), Japan
May 3rd: Scenic cruising Inland Sea of Japan
May 4th: Busan (Pusan), South Korea Full Day May 5th: At Sea May 6th: Vladivostok, Russian Federation Full Day May 7-9th: At Sea May 10th: Petropavlovsk (Kamchatka),
Russian Federation Full Day

After May 10th the schedule reverts back to the published itinerary.
Port calls to Nagasaki (April 30th) and Kobe-Osaka (May 2nd) in southern Japan will operate as scheduled. These areas are hundreds of miles southwest of the Fukushima nuclear plant and well beyond the 50 mile precautionary area originally recommended by the U.S. and Japanese governments. While we remain confident in travelling to southern Japan, guests may also refer to the U.S. Department of State website for their most recent statement.
Although we always try to maintain our published itineraries, we believe these changes are prudent in light of recent events. Japan is a large country with many areas that are completely safe to visit. At the same time, there are areas which need more time to recover.
We are confident that our guests will enjoy the interesting and unique new ports on this portion of our revised itinerary. As well, we will handle all arrangements and costs for Russian visas. There is no action required on the part of our guests. No special visas are required in Korea. We appreciate our guests understanding of this situation and patronage of Holland America Line. It is always our goal, however, to ensure that our guests have a choice in their cruise experience. Therefore, if a guest on the April 14th or May 2nd sailing of the ms Volendam wishes to cancel, they may do so with a full refund of all components of their booking purchased from Holland America Line if their request is received by April 4th, 2011. Affected guests and their travel agents are being notified of these changes.
To show our solidarity with the people of Japan and assist with their rebuilding efforts, Holland America Line will deliver a check for $25,000 to the Japanese Red Cross during our call in Kobe on May 2.

Holland America Line Replaces 2011 Egypt Port Calls


At Holland America Line, the safety of our guests and crew is our top priority. Therefore, as a result of the U.S. Department of State Travel Warning to defer all non-essential travel to Egypt due to continuing uncertainties regarding the restructuring of government institutions and the unresolved security situation there, we have replaced calls in Egypt on the cruises below. If the Travel Warning is withdrawn or revised prior to the time originally scheduled to call in Egypt, we will try to reinstate the original itinerary if at all possible.
Affected travel agents and guests are being notified.
ms Amsterdam Grand World Voyage that departed Ft. Lauderdale, FL on Jan. 5, 2011 will no longer call at the Egyptian ports of Safaga, Sharm el-Sheikh and Alexandria (Cairo). The affected segment of the itinerary is as follows:

Mar. 25 Dubai, United Arab Emirates overnight - overnight Mar. 26 Dubai, United Arab Emirates overnight – 10:00 am Mar. 27 Muscat, Oman 7:00 am – 6:00 pm Mar. 28 At Sea
Mar. 29 Salalah, Oman 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Mar. 30 - Apr. 2 At Sea
Apr. 3 Aqaba, Jordan 7:00 am – 11:00 pm Apr. 4 At Sea
Apr. 5 Daylight Transit Suez Canal
Apr. 6 Ashdod (Jerusalem), Israel 7:00 am – 11:00 pm

ms Prinsendam 62-day Africa and Mediterranean Grand Voyage that departed Ft. Lauderdale, FL on Mar. 12 will no longer call at the Egyptian ports of Alexandria (Cairo) and Port Said. The affected segment of the itinerary is revised as follows:
Apr. 17 Dubrovnik, Croatia 9:00 am – 6:00 pm Apr. 18-19 At Sea
Apr. 20 Ashdod (Jerusalem), Israel 9:00 am - overnight

ms Prinsendam 14-day Holy Land Explorer departing Sep. 26, 2011 from Rome to Athens will no longer call at the Egyptian ports of Alexandria (Cairo) and Port Said. The affected segment of the itinerary is revised as follows:

Sep. 29 Iraklion, Crete, Greece 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Sep. 30 At Sea
Oct. 1 Larnaca, Cyprus 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

ms Prinsendam 14-day Holy Land Explorer departing Oct. 24, 2011 sailing round-trip Rome will no longer call at Alexandria (Cairo), Egypt. The affected segment of the itinerary is revised as follows:
Oct. 28 Antalya, Turkey 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Oct. 29 Larnaca, Cyprus 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

ms Rotterdam 12-day Egypt & Holy Land Explorer departing Oct. 25th, 2011 from Athens to Rome will no longer call at Alexandria (Cairo), Egypt. The affected segment of the itinerary is revised as follows:
Oct. 27 Limassol, Cyprus noon – 11:00 pm

Holland America Line Replaces Spring 2011 Mazatlán Port Calls


At Holland America Line, the safety of our guests and crew is our top priority. As such, for the remainder of the 2011 Spring cruise season we are replacing Mazatlán on our published itineraries as follows:
ms Oosterdam 7-day cruises departing March 12th, 19th, 26th and April 9th and 16th will now feature two days in Puerto Vallarta with an overnight on day three. The April 2nd departure will instead overnight in Cabo San Lucas on day four.
The 10- or 14-day sailing on ms Zaandam departing April 10th and ms Oosterdam departing April 23rd will now call a second time in Cabo San Lucas on day six.
Affected guests and travel agents are being notified.
Discussions will continue with local authorities in Mazatlán to determine the appropriate time to resume port calls there.
Should future itinerary changes be made, affected travel agents and guests will be notified.

The URL is listed on HAL's Site by doing a Search for Site Map, News and then Travel Advisories: http://www.hollandamerica.com/news/Main.action


Joanie

[tokyo1949]

Many thanks to cruisers who have taken the time to inform me of the changes to itinery apparently on the USA and Australian websites. I am disappointed in HAL that they haven't bothered to inform anyone in the UK of these changes. I contacted the office in london but the admin dept is closed and all they could tell me was that the itinery had changed but if i wished to cancel I would lose my money. Maybe I will be hear tomorrow when they reopen but the deadline in rapidly approaching. Our son and his family are in Japan so we are fully aware of the devastation and heartbreak of the Japanese people and our hearts go out to them.

[world~citizen]

================================================
Well, sports fans - it looks like HAL has stepped up to the plate and hit a home run!
Just received an e-mail detailing the changed route for the cruise, substituting ports in Korea & Russia. Also detailed was an offer to allow cancellation w/ very generous refund.

May I ask which option you are choosing? If you don't wish to say no problem, its really just curiosity.:)

Smooth sailing...