Tis Himself reporting from the Amsterdam

[Himself]

Well not quite. I am currently in th Emerald City of Seattle. Washinton and I will I will board the Amsterdam in the late morning tomorrow. It is raining in Seattle today--so what else is new! I want to do a few things in Seattle today.

This report is coming live from my hotel in Seattle.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Bon Voyage!!

I hope you have as great a cruise as we did a coupe of weeks ago.

[CowPrincess]

Will be watching this thread with great interest -- would LOVE to do this itinerary some day :)

Have a wonderful time. I wish you many whales, otters and eagles :)

[Cruising-along]

The rain today took me by surprise, it has been and was supposed to be beautiful all week. :(

Have a great cruise, and if by chance you meet "Dadang" in the dining room, please say hello for me. :) We saw his picture in the Seattle Times this past Sunday so we know he's on the Amsterdam. He was our Assistant Waiter on the Rotterdam a few years ago, and he's a really a sweet guy.

[rafinmd]

Have a great cruise, Father. I still have 5 days to wait.

Roy

[kazu]

I wish you well Father and will be watching with interest for your reports.

Have a wonderful time:)

[IRL_Joanie]

You will have great weather ahead Father!!

Have a great cruise:)

Joanie

[callmedeb]

Bon Voyage!

[Math Guy]

Father, waiting for your posts aboard this cruise with great anticipation.

[Loreto]

Looking forward to your posts...have a great cruise!

Karen

[TiogaCruiser]

Enjoy, and thanks for posting and sharing.

What time do you go through seymour narrows?

[n0w0rn3v3r]

Yep, you should have been here the last couple of days...it was the kind of weather that makes all the grey and cloudy stuff seem bearable. Hopefully, this will all blow through and the mountains will "come out" for sail away.
Have a great cruise.

[JWJs]

Have a wonderful cruise!:)

[picture]

Well not quite. I am currently in th Emerald City of Seattle. Washinton and I will I will board the Amsterdam in the late morning tomorrow. It is raining in Seattle today--so what else is new! I want to do a few things in Seattle today.

This report is coming live from my hotel in Seattle.


so what hotel did you stay in and would you recommend it?
also what to do in Seattle when it rains.

[luvtwotrvl]

Have a great cruise, Himself. I love your itinerary. Maybe someday!!!
I love reading your live post, please keep it coming and thanks for posting.

David

[jbhcw]

Thanks for posting a live from review! I always enjoy your posts:)

[themerle]

Hope you have a fantastic cruise! I'll look forward to more posts!

[cdkempton]

Looking forward to your reports. We'll be on the A in 8 weeks and appreciate all the advance info. Were you able to go to the Market Place? (Pikes). I believe a lot of it is under cover but could be wrong.
Bon Voyage!!!
Colette

[Rutland Gate]

Thanks, Father.

[RevNeal]

Have a blessed cruise, my brother! Serve well and bless them all!

[Himself]

so what hotel did you stay in and would you recommend it?
also what to do in Seattle when it rains.

I am currently at the HOLDAY INN at Seatec Airport I am very near the elctric train that takes one into the downtown area. You can also go from the train to the Airport itself.
I walked over to the airport to get some Canadian money for my stop in Victoria BC.

I also took the electric train downtown and then caught the tram over to the Space Needle. That is pretty good for a kid that grew up in the alleys of The West Side of Chicago.

Live from my hotel at Sea-Tac Airport

[Watson's aunt]

Have a wonderful cruise Father I was on the June 10-24 Cruise and it was wonderful. let us know who your servers are.


Mary

[Watson's aunt]

Father Just think tomorrow night you will be sailing out of Seattle at this time. I hope you have wonder weather Ohh I think I could stay on the ship for months

Mary

[TylerRose]

Looking forward to your posts.
We will need to wait until August 5th for our chance...
but look forward to sharing all your adventures.

Also, Would like to learn about any Catholic church's you may come across and information about mass, etc.

Thank you in advance :D

[geocruiser]

Hi Father,

Have a great cruise. I pray lots of PAX come to mass.

[geocruiser]

Looking forward to your posts.
We will need to wait until August 5th for our chance...
but look forward to sharing all your adventures.

Also, Would like to learn about any Catholic church's you may come across and information about mass, etc.

Thank you in advance :D

This info may help you plan.

http://www.parishesonline.com/scripts/default.asp

http://www.masstimes.org/

[JamesEM]

Have a great cruise, looking forward to your reports, DW and I are booked on this cruise, but not until next year at this time.

[scopewest]

Have a wonderful cruise, can't wait to hear all about it!

[CrystalLady]

Have a wonderful cruise, Father. I look forward to your reports as I, too, shall be on this cruise next year.

[erewhon]

Hope you thoroughly enjoy your cruise.
Looking forward to your reports.

[PetNanny]

I am currently at the HOLDAY INN at Seatec Airport

Thanks for posting; looking forward to hearing about your cruise. We were on the Amsterdam last September.

As for the Holiday Inn at SeaTac, would you recommend it?

Thanks.

[luvcruisn']

I walked over to the airport to get some Canadian money for my stop in Victoria BC.

US currency is accepted everywhere in Canada. The exchange rate may differ, depending on the store you are using the currency at. At my place of work right now, we take off 5 cents on the US dollar bill, and give change in Canadian currency. US coins are accepted at par, including the US coin dollar. It resembles our $1.00 coin, or loonie.

[ger_77]

Bon Voyage Father, I always enjoy reading your posts.

Smooth Sailing! :):):)

[vbmom87]

US currency is accepted everywhere in Canada. The exchange rate may differ, depending on the store you are using the currency at. At my place of work right now, we take off 5 cents on the US dollar bill, and give change in Canadian currency. US coins are accepted at par, including the US coin dollar. It resembles our $1.00 coin, or loonie.


Someone from Canada posted you needed Canadian money for the public buses in Victoria.

[Himself]

Thanks for posting; looking forward to hearing about your cruise. We were on the Amsterdam last September.

As for the Holiday Inn at SeaTac, would you recommend it?

Thanks.

I have stayed here before and I like it. The Dining room is a bit expensive and so I have been known to walk up a block to Denny's for a meal. The electric train to downtown Seattle is walking distance and so I use it to go into town.

[Himself]

US currency is accepted everywhere in Canada. The exchange rate may differ, depending on the store you are using the currency at. At my place of work right now, we take off 5 cents on the US dollar bill, and give change in Canadian currency. US coins are accepted at par, including the US coin dollar. It resembles our $1.00 coin, or loonie.

With the economic situation being what it is, I would rather not spend American money in a foreign country.

[Himself]

Good morning gang. Today is the day we sail! It is in the low 50's this morning in Seattle. I hope it is much warmer in Alaska. I will leave the hotel here in about one to two hours and head up to pier 91 to catch the ship. Thanks to all for all the good wishes.
HIMSELF

This report came to you live from the Holiday Inn at Sea-Tac Airport.

[twodogmom]

Looking forward to reading about your cruise. Hope you have a fantastic time.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Bon Voyage Father, I know you have been waiting with excitement for this cruise. Have a blessed two weeks on board the Beautiful MS Amsterdam :)

[PetNanny]

I have stayed here before and I like it. The Dining room is a bit expensive and so I have been known to walk up a block to Denny's for a meal. The electric train to downtown Seattle is walking distance and so I use it to go into town.

Thanks for the response. We are considering staying near the airport and HI was on the list.

[kazu]

Bon Voyage Father - have a wonderful time:)

[hpf]

Have a great cruise father and enjoy every minute.

Helen

[Himself]

Good Morning Friends:

I am writing to you as we are crusing the beatiful Inside Passage. We went through the Semour narrows about 6:15 This Morning Pacific Time. That was three hours ago. The inside passage is simply gourgous. It has been a great first day at Sea. It is a bit chilly.
It is about 50 degrees farengheight. I had Mass at 5PM during sail away and not many showed up! However I will have the Anticipated Mass at 5PM tonight in the Queens Lounge. Tomorrow in Ketchikan I will do the Non-Denominational Eccuminical Service at 4PM and the Mass at 5PM. I am enjoying the cruise very much. Tonight will be "formal"
and we will arrive early in Ketchikan. I need to go get a homily ready for the Mass this evening. All the Best to each of you!
Himself

This post was made on the beautiful and elegant m.s. AMSTERDAM, the best ship in the whole DAM Fleet!

[rafinmd]

Father, is it usual to do the Non-Denominational Ecumenical Sunday Service on port days on HAL

Thanks

Roy

[RevNeal]

Father, is it usual to do the Non-Denominational Ecumenical Sunday Service on port days on HAL

Since he's aboard ship, I'll answer for "Himself".

The Ecumenical service is conducted on Sundays, even when those Sundays are port days. At least, that's nominal. Depending upon the minster in charge, Protestant services are also often offered on many Sea Days.

HAL used to appoint Protestant Guest Ministers to all cruises of 10+ days, but that policy has changed. Now, HAL only places Protestant Guest Ministers on "select" cruises 10+ days in length. This means that the Roman Catholic Priest aboard (or any Protestant clergy passengers who volunteer for duty) have to do the Ecumenical (i.e. so-called "Non-Denominational") services. Unfortunately, this means that on those cruises where there's not a Protestant Guest Minister the Protestants do not have an opportunity to partake of the Eucharist. For some Protestants this is unimportant, but for others of us this creates severe spiritual difficulties.

[vbmom87]

Good Morning Friends:

I am writing to you as we are crusing the beatiful Inside Passage. We went through the Semour narrows about 6:15 This Morning Pacific Time.


Does your daily newletter let you know what time you will be cruising through Seymour Narrows?

[Himself]

We cruised through the Seymour Narrows at 6:15 this morning and I was up and monitering it.

The Christian Non Denominational Service is at 4:00 PM on Sunday and since there is no Minister Assigned, as far as I know it is "my baby." I know thee is one Baptist Minister on board but he is celebrating his fiftith wedding anniversary and will be sitting in the stands.

It is 8:45 PM West Coast time and the sun is still up and bright. It will be 10:00 before the sun goes down. Tonight is our first formal night and we will have four of them on this two week cruise. I will post in Ketchikan tomorrow. I have met some nice people but no one from Cruise Critic came up to me yet. I am not that hard to find. I stand out like a sore thumb.

Himself

[catl331]

Oh, but what a GOOD sore thumb!!;)

[RevNeal]

I have met some nice people but no one from Cruise Critic came up to me yet. I am not that hard to find. I stand out like a sore thumb.

One of these days we will have to meet. :D

[Himself]

One of these days we will have to meet. :D

Greg:
I would look forward to that! I will e-mail you when I am definate on a cruise and maybe you could book it. Am in Ketchian right now and am going ashore in a bit.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Does your daily newletter let you know what time you will be cruising through Seymour Narrows?


On our Amsterdam Explorer Daily Program -- no time was listed for when we would be cruising through Seymour Narrows.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Greg:
. Am in Ketchian right now and am going ashore in a bit.

Ketchikan -- love that port.

[Himself]

Ketchikan -- love that port.

So do I--when it is not raining!

[vbmom87]

So do I--when it is not raining!

LOL!!! Yup!!!

How did you know when to be out on deck for the Seymour Narrows cruising if it is not listed in the daily newsletter?

[geocruiser]

Father, When we went to Alaska we were told that Ketchikan get lots of rain. I forget what town on our cruise got 132 inches of rain in a year! I loved the museum in Katchikan. The rain coats made by the indians out of animal inners.

[Himself]

LOL!!! Yup!!!

How did you know when to be out on deck for the Seymour Narrows cruising if it is not listed in the daily newsletter?

Right before we took off from Seattle the Captain announced that we would pass through it about 6:30AM dependinf on traffic. I got up at 5:30 and cleaned up a bit and went up to the crows next and watched as we approached the narrows. We went in about 6:10 AM
Himself

[vbmom87]

Right before we took off from Seattle the Captain announced that we would pass through it about 6:30AM dependinf on traffic. I got up at 5:30 and cleaned up a bit and went up to the crows next and watched as we approached the narrows. We went in about 6:10 AM
Himself

Thanks, I will have to pay close attention or ask if I don't hear. Last time I went through the Narrows, it was about 3:00 a.m. and you couldn't see anything. I don't want to miss it this time.

[Himself]

Father, When we went to Alaska we were told that Ketchikan get lots of rain. I forget what town on our cruise got 132 inches of rain in a year! I loved the museum in Katchikan. The rain coats made by the indians out of animal inners.

They do get a lot of rain at Ketchikan. They have had about 102 inches this year BUT the sun was shining today. I never saw rain there today--Deo Gratias!

[NancyIL]

Thanks, I will have to pay close attention or ask if I don't hear. Last time I went through the Narrows, it was about 3:00 a.m. and you couldn't see anything. I don't want to miss it this time.

We are very fortunate to be sailing east of Vancouver Island on a cruise out of Seattle! I hope there will be some daylight by 6:30 in early August.

[TiogaCruiser]

Thanks, I will have to pay close attention or ask if I don't hear. Last time I went through the Narrows, it was about 3:00 a.m. and you couldn't see anything. I don't want to miss it this time.

If you miss the captains evening announcement the front desk should be able to tell you what time they project you will go through seymour. You can get the predicted time from this site: ( look for the date you will travel the east side of vancouver- then look for the slack tide time).

http://www.mobilegeographics.com:81/locations/5757.html

I hope you can use it on a regular system- I'm on my cellphone and it appears I've been diverted to a mobile site. If not, google Seymour narrows tides.

~TC

[Laminator]

We are very fortunate to be sailing east of Vancouver Island on a cruise out of Seattle! I hope there will be some daylight by 6:30 in early August.

I am guessing we are on the same cruise from what you wrote. Sunrise will be around 5:30 in the morning. We should have plenty of light.

[NancyIL]

I am guessing we are on the same cruise from what you wrote. Sunrise will be around 5:30 in the morning. We should have plenty of light.

No, I'll be on the same ship as Himself - the Amsterdam. I'm glad sunrise is that early.

[geocruiser]

Hi Father,

I pray that your mass was full of PAX. I hope thath the rain stops for your visit.

Father is possiable can you say a pray for my brother Brian. He game to visit me form NYC yesterday and fell on the way up . He hurt his ankle and will be going to the Dr today.

Thank you,

Maria

[ironin]

Right before we took off from Seattle the Captain announced that we would pass through it about 6:30AM dependinf on traffic. I got up at 5:30 and cleaned up a bit and went up to the crows next and watched as we approached the narrows. We went in about 6:10 AM
Himself

Guess it pays to actually listen to the captain on occasion :D. Thanks for keeping us updated on your voyage.

[vbmom87]

If you miss the captains evening announcement the front desk should be able to tell you what time they project you will go through seymour. You can get the predicted time from this site: ( look for the date you will travel the east side of vancouver- then look for the slack tide time).

http://www.mobilegeographics.com:81/locations/5757.html

I hope you can use it on a regular system- I'm on my cellphone and it appears I've been diverted to a mobile site. If not, google Seymour narrows tides.

~TC

Thank you so much!!!! The link worked!! Here is what I found:

2011-08-06 1:41 AM PDT -11.02 knots Max Ebb
2011-08-06 4:08 AM PDT First Quarter
2011-08-06 4:58 AM PDT 0.00 knots Slack, Flood Begins
2011-08-06 5:57 AM PDT Sunrise
2011-08-06 8:10 AM PDT 10.45 knots Max Flood
2011-08-06 11:39 AM PDT -0.01 knots Slack, Ebb Begins
2011-08-06 2:34 PM PDT -7.65 knots Max Ebb
2011-08-06 5:36 PM PDT 0.02 knots Slack, Flood Begins
2011-08-06 8:21 PM PDT 6.53 knots Max Flood
2011-08-06 8:56 PM PDT Sunset
2011-08-06 11:05 PM PDT -0.01 knots Slack, Ebb Begins


So, if I understand you and this chart, the slack time is at 4:58 a.m. With sunrise being an hour later, we may not luck out. :( Is that correct?

[NancyIL]

Thank you so much!!!! The link worked!! Here is what I found:

2011-08-06 1:41 AM PDT -11.02 knots Max Ebb
2011-08-06 4:08 AM PDT First Quarter
2011-08-06 4:58 AM PDT 0.00 knots Slack, Flood Begins
2011-08-06 5:57 AM PDT Sunrise
2011-08-06 8:10 AM PDT 10.45 knots Max Flood
2011-08-06 11:39 AM PDT -0.01 knots Slack, Ebb Begins
2011-08-06 2:34 PM PDT -7.65 knots Max Ebb
2011-08-06 5:36 PM PDT 0.02 knots Slack, Flood Begins
2011-08-06 8:21 PM PDT 6.53 knots Max Flood
2011-08-06 8:56 PM PDT Sunset
2011-08-06 11:05 PM PDT -0.01 knots Slack, Ebb Begins

So, if I understand you and this chart, the slack time is at 4:58 a.m. With sunrise being an hour later, we may not luck out. :( Is that correct?

That's how it looks to me. However, there is some light before sunrise and after sunset.

[vbmom87]

That's how it looks to me. However, there is some light before sunrise and after sunset.

That is what I am hoping.

[Himself]

Hi Father,

I pray that your mass was full of PAX. I hope thath the rain stops for your visit.

Father is possiable can you say a pray for my brother Brian. He game to visit me form NYC yesterday and fell on the way up . He hurt his ankle and will be going to the Dr today.

Thank you,

Maria

Certaily, Maria--in fact I just did say a prayer fro Brian. I hope it is not too serious and he is on the mend.

[Himself]

Thank you so much!!!! The link worked!! Here is what I found:

2011-08-06 1:41 AM PDT -11.02 knots Max Ebb
2011-08-06 4:08 AM PDT First Quarter
2011-08-06 4:58 AM PDT 0.00 knots Slack, Flood Begins
2011-08-06 5:57 AM PDT Sunrise
2011-08-06 8:10 AM PDT 10.45 knots Max Flood
2011-08-06 11:39 AM PDT -0.01 knots Slack, Ebb Begins
2011-08-06 2:34 PM PDT -7.65 knots Max Ebb
2011-08-06 5:36 PM PDT 0.02 knots Slack, Flood Begins
2011-08-06 8:21 PM PDT 6.53 knots Max Flood
2011-08-06 8:56 PM PDT Sunset
2011-08-06 11:05 PM PDT -0.01 knots Slack, Ebb Begins


So, if I understand you and this chart, the slack time is at 4:58 a.m. With sunrise being an hour later, we may not luck out. :( Is that correct?

You dazzle me with the informartion! One must know when to enter the Seymour Narrows.
Thank you for sharing the inforamtion. I am glad we had some slack the other day as we sailed through the Seymour Narrows. Right now we are heading up to Tracy Arm after having had our first port day in Ketchkan.

[Spinner2]

Could you tell me who the Cruise Director is?

thanks!

[FoghornLeghorn]

Background:
I'm blonde
I've been on CC awhile, but not on the HAL boards much
and
I'm Southern Baptist (we have Pastors and Brothers)

So, I'm reading along and find HIMSELF's post for his cruise. I love live reports...and I'll be on the QM2 next year, so I figure this will be a great thread to follow.

Someone posts: Have a great cruise, Father
Will be boarding in five days
(how sweet, he's checking in with Dad)

Then: have a great cruise, Father
(wow the family that's on CC together, stays together!)

By the time Joanie posted have a great cruise, Father ..... the blonde lightbulb came on.

I read through the next few posts real quick.
Mass. Having a non-denominational service....
DUH
:D :D :D

[geocruiser]

Certaily, Maria--in fact I just did say a prayer fro Brian. I hope it is not too serious and he is on the mend.

Thank you Father. I took him to the E.R. this AM. The X-ray showed a big break, but it could have been an old break. So they did a Cat scan and it showed it was an old break. Thank you God. It is a very bad sprain and he can't walk very well. Has pain. He need to mend fast for his job.

Thank-you Father for your prayer. I know it helpped.
God bless you and all those who you serve.

P.S. you prayed for him about the time he was getting the Cat-scan!
Maria

[rafinmd]

Father, about how many did you have for the Interdenominational service in Ketchikan?

Thanks

Roy

[NancyIL]

Background:
I'm blonde
I've been on CC awhile, but not on the HAL boards much
and
I'm Southern Baptist (we have Pastors and Brothers)

So, I'm reading along and find HIMSELF's post for his cruise. I love live reports...and I'll be on the QM2 next year, so I figure this will be a great thread to follow.

Someone posts: Have a great cruise, Father
Will be boarding in five days
(how sweet, he's checking in with Dad)

Then: have a great cruise, Father
(wow the family that's on CC together, stays together!)

By the time Joanie posted have a great cruise, Father ..... the blonde lightbulb came on.

I read through the next few posts real quick.
Mass. Having a non-denominational service....
DUH
:D :D :D

Too funny! I also wasn't aware that Himself was a priest...until several people called him "Father"! :D

[TiogaCruiser]

So, if I understand you and this chart, the slack time is at 4:58 a.m. With sunrise being an hour later, we may not luck out. :( Is that correct?

VBmom:
I just pulled my notebook from our adventure last year. (oh what memories!)

We went through Seymour on August 10 of last year. Our slack tide time was 05:44 per that website and that was also the time the captain told us we would pass through the evening before. I don't see a note for that day as to when sunrise was, but I can tell you it was light enough to see. We remained on deck for hours. I did take some pictures after we passed Seymour and the shutter was very long and the aperture was open as wide as it would go.

Civil twilight will be about 45 minutes before sunrise.

The whirling pools were visible along much of the passage.

[vbmom87]

VBmom:
I just pulled my notebook from our adventure last year. (oh what memories!)

We went through Seymour on August 10 of last year. Our slack tide time was 05:44 per that website and that was also the time the captain told us we would pass through the evening before. I don't see a note for that day as to when sunrise was, but I can tell you it was light enough to see. We remained on deck for hours. I did take some pictures after we passed Seymour and the shutter was very long and the aperture was open as wide as it would go.

Civil twilight will be about 45 minutes before sunrise.

The whirling pools were visible along much of the passage.

Thank you, I will keep my fingers crossed. I know all ships don't even go this route, so I am excited and hopeful to see this phenomenon.

[Himself]

Father, about how many did you have for the Interdenominational service in Ketchikan?

Thanks

Roy

I think it was 30 or 35. I did not count heads. The Lord told Peter: "Feed my sheep."
He did not say:Count my sheep

[Himself]

Background:
I'm blonde
I've been on CC awhile, but not on the HAL boards much
and
I'm Southern Baptist (we have Pastors and Brothers)

So, I'm reading along and find HIMSELF's post for his cruise. I love live reports...and I'll be on the QM2 next year, so I figure this will be a great thread to follow.

Someone posts: Have a great cruise, Father
Will be boarding in five days
(how sweet, he's checking in with Dad)

Then: have a great cruise, Father
(wow the family that's on CC together, stays together!)

By the time Joanie posted have a great cruise, Father ..... the blonde lightbulb came on.

I read through the next few posts real quick.
Mass. Having a non-denominational service....
DUH
:D :D :D
For Catholics we have Mass. For non-Catholic Christians we have a non-demonintional Christian Service. Jewish people have a service on Friday evening at 5:00 PM

[Himself]

We had a wonderful trip ino Tracy Arm today and got pretty close to the Sawyer Glacier.
Good Night my friends, Himself is very tired.

JUNEAU TOMORROW!!!!!!! BLUE: Here I come!!!!

[Math Guy]

I am guessing we are on the same cruise from what you wrote. Sunrise will be around 5:30 in the morning. We should have plenty of light.
www.sunrisesunset.com (http://www.sunrisesunset.com)

[rafinmd]

I think it was 30 or 35. I did not count heads. The Lord told Peter: "Feed my sheep."
He did not say:Count my sheep

Thanks. I've sometimes seen as few as 4 or 5. Fortunately, my Sunday on the Rotterdam will be a day at sea and I expect a good turnout.

Roy

[Himself]

Good evening, friends on the Cruise Critic. This was one of the nicest days I have ever seen in Juneau and I have been coming up here since 1997. It was about 78 and not a cloud in the sky. I went up to the Mount Roberts Tramway (some say "Skamway" and the view was beautiful It was a great day to be in Alaska. I stopped in the Alaskan Fudge Company and had some of their delciious Fudge sent to my secrtarys, business manager and my sister.

All in all it was a wonderful day. Hope it was a good day for each of you. Now it will be on to ICY Strait and then a day at Sea before Anckorage.

Tis Himself reporting live from the beautiful and elegant m.s. AMSTERDAM

[slabeaume]

You're really making me miss my 2 cruises to Alaska!

[Himself]

You're really making me miss my 2 cruises to Alaska!

Whatever will be, will be!

[TiogaCruiser]

And you're making me enjoy mine all over again! :)

Father, What is "blue" regarding Juneau?

[JamesEM]

Himself, thanks for sharing, DW and I are booked on the Amsterdam for the July 13, 2012, sailing, really looking forward to our 2nd cruise to AK.

[catl331]

WoW! Clear sky in Juneau. I guess you have connections. The Tramway is certainly worth it with blue skies!

No fudge for yourself, Himself?? Free samples?? Just a taste? Fess up!;)

[mtiffany24]

WoW! Clear sky in Juneau. I guess you have connections. The Tramway is certainly worth it with blue skies!

No fudge for yourself, Himself?? Free samples?? Just a taste? Fess up!;)

You can easily hike up to the top of the tramway, it takes about an hour. Then if you buy $5 worth in the gift shop you can have a free ride down to the bottom.

[vbmom87]

You can easily hike up to the top of the tramway, it takes about an hour. Then if you buy $5 worth in the gift shop you can have a free ride down to the bottom.

What is your definition of "easy?"

[Himself]

And you're making me enjoy mine all over again! :)

Father, What is "blue" regarding Juneau?

"Blue" is the nickname of the owner of The Alaskan Fudge Company. He and his wife Deb own the place along with another man named Phil. His son also works for him. The son is a lad in his early twenties

[Himself]

WoW! Clear sky in Juneau. I guess you have connections. The Tramway is certainly worth it with blue skies!

No fudge for yourself, Himself?? Free samples?? Just a taste? Fess up!;)

Not good for the diabetes! The smell of it gets the blood sugar sky high!

[mtiffany24]

What is your definition of "easy?"

Well, it IS uphill after all. I am a grandmother and didn't get winded when I did the hike two years ago. I stopped once to take some photos at a viewpoint. I wouldn't advise the hike if the trail is muddy (like it was last year). It also wouldn't be worth it on a foggy day (no view from the top).

[Himself]

You can easily hike up to the top of the tramway, it takes about an hour. Then if you buy $5 worth in the gift shop you can have a free ride down to the bottom.

You don't have to buy anything at the top and it is still a free ride down. Secondly, you can go up as many times as you want in a day.

[Himself]

You can easily hike up to the top of the tramway, it takes about an hour. Then if you buy $5 worth in the gift shop you can have a free ride down to the bottom.

At 71 and having had tripple by-pass four years ago, I would pay for the tranmway or as some call it "The Scamway." And what if little old me would run into a bear on that hill?"

It reminds me of a story of the athiest who ran into a bear and asked God to help him.
God reminded him of his atheism and the athist said "Then, please make him a Christian".
Go oblidged and made the bear a Christian. The Bear then knelt down and bowed his head and prayed: "Bless us O Lord, and these thy gifts which we are about to recieve from thy bounty through Christ our Lord, Amen!"

[geocruiser]

Just wondering are there any bears on the trail. When we took the tramway the girl running it said look for bears on the way up.

[Himself]

Just wondering are there any bears on the trail. When we took the tramway the girl running it said look for bears on the way up.

I would rather not find out!

[geocruiser]

I would rather not find out!

Father you made me laugh!

PS,
My brother goes back to the DR in the AM.

[Himself]

Himself, thanks for sharing, DW and I are booked on the Amsterdam for the July 13, 2012, sailing, really looking forward to our 2nd cruise to AK.

I hope it goes up on the inside passage. Right now the map indicates that next year it will go up on the Pacific Ocean rather than the inside passage.

[vbmom87]

I hope it goes up on the inside passage. Right now the map indicates that next year it will go up on the Pacific Ocean rather than the inside passage.

It sure does and that is a big disappointment. For a few brief moments we considered waiting until next year to go on this cruise. So glad we made the decision to go this year. For all cruisers on the next year's itinerary, I do hope they make the change back to the route the Amsterdam took last year and is taking this year.

[Himself]

it sure does and that is a big disappointment. For a few brief moments we considered waiting until next year to go on this cruise. So glad we made the decision to go this year. For all cruisers on the next year's itinerary, i do hope they make the change back to the route the amsterdam took last year and is taking this year.

amen!!!!!

[Krazy Kruizers]

I hope it goes up on the inside passage. Right now the map indicates that next year it will go up on the Pacific Ocean rather than the inside passage.

That is sad to hear. Glad we went this year.

The Inside Passage is so beautiful!!

[Himself]

That is sad to hear. Glad we went this year.

The Inside Passage is so beautiful!!

You are so right and if we go up there our of Vancouver, we are asleep so much of it.
We go through the Seymour narrows in the middle of the night rather than at 6:15 in the morning. I have NEVER enjoyed the inside passage as much as I did on this trip.

[geocruiser]

Hi Father,

Have you seen any salmon yet? I did see any when we went to alaska.

[Himself]

Hi Father,

Have you seen any salmon yet? I did see any when we went to alaska.

I have not noitced any but when we were docked in Juneau Tuesday night there were some fish jumping out of the Gasineau Channel. I think the Salmon run should be starting in Ketchian in a week or so.

[Himself]

Hi gang:
We have been at Sea since we left Icy Strait yesterday around 4PM Local time. I have seen the Gulf of Alaska much rougher than it is today. We should arrive in Ankorage about 7:00 AM in the Morning and I will have to be off the ship for a tour that begiins about 8:00 AM I have enjoyed this first week very much.


HIMSELF

[vbmom87]

Hi gang:
We have been at Sea since we left Icy Strait yesterday around 4PM Local time. I have seen the Gulf of Alaska much rougher than it is today. We should arrive in Ankorage about 7:00 AM in the Morning and I will have to be off the ship for a tour that begiins about 8:00 AM I have enjoyed this first week very much.


HIMSELF

I received an email from my TA that HAL has changed the docking time in Anchorage to 8:00 a.m. for our August 5 itinerary. I will be interested to know what time you actually dock.

Glad to hear you have been enjoying your first week. I can't wait to experience Alaska in August.

What did you do in Icy Strait, and what tour do you have planned in Anchorage?

[TiogaCruiser]

Im here in So Cal looking at a magnificent full moon. You must be going through Cook Inlet by now- is it clear enough to see the moon and the surrounding mountains? Are any of the volcanos steaming?

[Himself]

Im here in So Cal looking at a magnificent full moon. You must be going through Cook Inlet by now- is it clear enough to see the moon and the surrounding mountains? Are any of the volcanos steaming?


No moon up here in Anchorage. It is near 10:30 at night and the moon will not show its face for more than an hour yet!

Himself

[Himself]

I received an email from my TA that HAL has changed the docking time in Anchorage to 8:00 a.m. for our August 5 itinerary. I will be interested to know what time you actually dock.

Glad to hear you have been enjoying your first week. I can't wait to experience Alaska in August.

What did you do in Icy Strait, and what tour do you have planned in Anchorage?

We cast our mooring lines a little after 7 but it was 8:20 before we could get off the ship.
It think the tide might have something to do with the change of times. There are many tide variations here in Anchorage. At one point were were in 12 feet of water. The last I checked we were in over 40 feet of Water. We do not leave until 11:00 PM because we have to go out on high tide.
Himself

[Himself]

I received an email from my TA that HAL has changed the docking time in Anchorage to 8:00 a.m. for our August 5 itinerary. I will be interested to know what time you actually dock.

Glad to hear you have been enjoying your first week. I can't wait to experience Alaska in August.

What did you do in Icy Strait, and what tour do you have planned in Anchorage?

I did nothing in ICY STRAIT--didn't even go ashore! To a sightseeing trip through Anchorage which I enjoyed very much.

[Himself]

I had a wonderful day here in Anchorage. I could see Mt. McKinley from 180 miles away when I was in the Crows Nest this morning. It was awsome. Had a wonderful tour of Anchorage and spent some time at the Alaskan Cultural Center. From the tour bus we saw a moose with her cubs.

There are some very big tide variations here at Anchorage. When we got off the ship about 8:20 we go off on the main deck and the ramp was very steep to the landing and steep the rest of the way down. By the time I got back from the tour we were getting on the ship from the lower promenade deck and the climb was not that steep. Later in the day you went down from the dock to the lower promenade deck. That is no longer true as iI write these lines.
We will sail in about 20 minutes and it is still light out. It is now 10:40 PM here in Anchorage. Will do more reporting later in the cruise. It is time for me to sing "Good night Sweet Jesus" I am getting tired.
Himself

[Krazy Kruizers]

Enjoying your reports.

The crew had to keep changing the gangway all day when we were in Anchorage.

[kazu]

Thanks so much for sharing your travels with us Himself. I had not idea about the tides in Anchorage. very interesting:):)

[vbmom87]

We cast our mooring lines a little after 7 but it was 8:20 before we could get off the ship.
It think the tide might have something to do with the change of times. There are many tide variations here in Anchorage. At one point were were in 12 feet of water. The last I checked we were in over 40 feet of Water. We do not leave until 11:00 PM because we have to go out on high tide.
Himself


That is exactly what I was thinking. We will have higher tide when we are in Anchorage on Aug. 12, but I don't know if it will affect our time getting off the Cruise ship or not. I just adjusted my plans for the day. I am disappointed, but I will make it work.

How do you check the depth of water?

[Himself]

That is exactly what I was thinking. We will have higher tide when we are in Anchorage on Aug. 12, but I don't know if it will affect our time getting off the Cruise ship or not. I just adjusted my plans for the day. I am disappointed, but I will make it work.

How do you check the depth of water?

You will not be sorry you came to Anchorage. It is a great place and I hope to get back there some day. To answer your question, there are electronic boards around the ship that give this information, plus you can get it by going to channel forty in your state room.

[Himself]

The beatiful and elegant m.s. AMSTERDAM is now docked in chilly Homer Alaska. I believe the CD called it HOMAAAAAAAAA. (I should not mimic, but it has been a fault of mine since I was a child.) It was a bit chilly on the lower promenade deck as we sailed in and it was quite a sight watching the long shore men put the rear mooring lines in place.

I might be going into town in a bit. This is the "Halibut Capital" of the world, or so they claim. I have NEVER liked halibut and at almost 72 I am not going to change on that one.

I will give you a "scouting report" on Homer a bit later in the day. In the meantime, a bad day at Sea is twice as good as a good day on terra firma.

I don't know that I mentioned it but yesterday in Anchorage we were about 300 miles closer to Tokyo Japan than we were to Miami Florida. I have never been to either place but I have been to Ft. Lauderdale many times.
Have a great day all!
Himself, reporting live from the Amsterdam

[vbmom87]

You will not be sorry you came to Anchorage. It is a great place and I hope to get back there some day. To answer your question, there are electronic boards around the ship that give this information, plus you can get it by going to channel forty in your state room.

Thanks for the tip about finding the water depth. Missed that last time.

I did visit Anchorage in 2008. This time I had hoped to rent a car and do a PWS tour with an independent vendor. Unfortunately, the later docking time makes it uncertain if I would have enough time to make it for the tunnel crossing. I didn't want to be stressing out about it, so for now we cancelled the tour with the independent vendor and are booked on the ship's tour. I will study my options again just before we leave home. This may be my last trip to Alaska, (although I hope not) so I do want to get in all my priorities this time. The PWS cruise is the priority, so as long as I can get it in, I will be happy. It is just that I really enjoy having the freedom to stop where I want when I have my own car. I will deal though. It will still be a great day!

[Himself]

Thanks for the tip about finding the water depth. Missed that last time.

I did visit Anchorage in 2008. This time I had hoped to rent a car and do a PWS tour with an independent vendor. Unfortunately, the later docking time makes it uncertain if I would have enough time to make it for the tunnel crossing. I didn't want to be stressing out about it, so for now we cancelled the tour with the independent vendor and are booked on the ship's tour. I will study my options again just before we leave home. This may be my last trip to Alaska, (although I hope not) so I do want to get in all my priorities this time. The PWS cruise is the priority, so as long as I can get it in, I will be happy. It is just that I really enjoy having the freedom to stop where I want when I have my own car. I will deal though. It will still be a great day!

I think you can still pull that one off!

[vbmom87]

Father, thanks so much for your reporting. I am really enjoying hearing from you each day. It is making me get more and more excited.

[Himself]

Father, thanks so much for your reporting. I am really enjoying hearing from you each day. It is making me get more and more excited.


One thing I forgot to mention was I looked on the menu for tonight and one of the items is Sauerbrotten. (I think I just died and went to heaven!)

[vbmom87]

One thing I forgot to mention was I looked on the menu for tonight and one of the items is Sauerbrotten. (I think I just died and went to heaven!)

Enjoy!!!! I am a vegetarian, so don't share your excitement. ;)

[geocruiser]

Hi Father,

Have you been to the Russian Bishop's House in Sitka? If not do take the tour. We love it. It is just steps away from where you get off the tender.


http://www.nps.gov/sitk/historyculture/russian-bishops-house.htm

About the Bishop
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Innocent_of_Alaska

[Himself]

Hi Father,

Have you been to the Russian Bishop's House in Sitka? If not do take the tour. We love it. It is just steps away from where you get off the tender.


http://www.nps.gov/sitk/historyculture/russian-bishops-house.htm

About the Bishop
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Innocent_of_Alaska

I know where it is, but I have not been through it. I am planning on another trip to the Raptor Center and am planning on Buchardt Gardens in Vicoria.

[Himself]

I knew an old priest one time and he wanted to see Austrailia before he died. His first stop was in Tahiti. He send someone a postcard and it read: "Well, I have seen Tahiti. I am not going to tear up my passport!"




This report is coming to you live from the m.s. AMSTERDAM

P.S. I wouldn't go awol from the ship to stay here.

[Himself]

One of the items in the Lido tonight at the casual dinner will be Sauerbratten.

[klingoncruiser]

Thanks for posting this. We are looking at taking this cruise next summer. We just got back from 2 weeks in Alaska using the Ferries. I hope you do something in Kodiak as it is such a neat place.

Just about finished with my Alaska Fudge, that stuff is so decadent. :D

Moose with 2 cubs? LOL.... Bears and Moose living together? Sorry, could not pass that one up.

Awaiting each new adventure.....

[vbmom87]

Father,

If you have some spare time and are so inclined, do you think you could find out from a knowledgable staff person on the ship if passengers are allowed to bring food off the ship? This topic has been discussed often and there are some who insist you are not allowed to take food off the ship at the ports unless it is prepackaged. When I ask them to please send me a link to where this policy is stated, I never get a response.

On our Alaskan cruise in 2008 the only day I heard an announcement about not bringing food off the ship was on our last day when we were disembarking in Seward. I never saw it on the daily newsletters or on any signs as we were getting off the ship.

I would really like to find out the answer to this question. I am not one to violate rules. However, I would like to know if there truly is a ban on bringing food off the ship in Alaskan ports. If there is not a ban, I would like to order sandwiches from room service so we can take them off the ship. We don't do this to save money, but rather time. We love to go, go, go when we are in port so we can see all there is to see. If we don't have to waste precious touring time to grab a bite to eat, we could definitely see more of Alaska.

[Himself]

You are NOT to bring food off the ship when disembarking. I will check on this with one of the security people. I know that when we disembark they have dogs sniffing for contraband. Now I did see someone getting off today and eating a banana. I know if I pulled that in Seattle, Ft. Lauderdale or Vancouver I would be in a bit of trouble.

By the way the sailawy was beatiful and the scenery is just heavenly--and so was the sourbrattan. Had dinner with two delightful people from Australia
Himself.

[vbmom87]

You are NOT to bring food off the ship when disembarking. I will check on this with one of the security people. I know that when we disembark they have dogs sniffing for contraband. Now I did see someone getting off today and eating a banana. I know if I pulled that in Seattle, Ft. Lauderdale or Vancouver I would be in a bit of trouble.

By the way the sailawy was beatiful and the scenery is just heavenly--and so was the sourbrattan. Had dinner with two delightful people from Australia
Himself.

Somehow had once posted about how beautiful the sailaway was from Homer, and I did write it down on my calendar notes for the trip. Glad you liked your Sauerbraten. Before I became a vegetarian, I would have enjoyed it too. ;)

As for the food, someone who was on the Amsterdam earlier this season also mentioned that they did not hear any announcements until they returned to Seattle where at that time they were told not to bring any food off the ship. I am really looking forward to the response you get from security. I was trying to figure out who would be the best person to ask, and security does sound like the best choice. Will be anxious to hear the response you get. Thanks for being willing to check this out for me. Like I said, if it is truly not allowed, I will follow the rules. However, I have been very confused about this and would like it cleared up. You are very kind to be willing to look it into it for me.

[Math Guy]

You are NOT to bring food off the ship when disembarking. I will check on this with one of the security people. I know that when we disembark they have dogs sniffing for contraband.

In April,2010, We took the Costa Atlantica, Fort Lauderdale to Quebec City.

At our first stop ,Port Canaveral, local security personnel with K9 sniffers, and police officers, greeted passengers as we disembarked.

A treasure trove of food of various description was confiscated....many folks were headed to Cocoa Beach for picnics .

It was certainly intimidating...but I can guarantee that for the remainder of the 2 week cruise, no one seemed intent on 'smuggling' any items off the ship.

[Himself]

In April,2010, We took the Costa Atlantica, Fort Lauderdale to Quebec City.

At our first stop ,Port Canaveral, local security personnel with K9 sniffers, and police officers, greeted passengers as we disembarked.

A treasure trove of food of various description was confiscated....many folks were headed to Cocoa Beach for picnics .

It was certainly intimidating...but I can guarantee that for the remainder of the 2 week cruise, no one seemed intent on 'smuggling' any items off the ship.

That was a lesson hard learned but obviously well taught. Sounds like everyone got the message--loud and clear. Thank you for sharing it.

[Himself]

We are now docked in Kodiak. It is 7:15 AM on Sunday morning and it was rather cloudy and we sailed in. I mention this because this is the first day that the Sun was not shining as we awoke and I suspect many are still not awake.
I will have more later.

Tis Himself signing off

[geocruiser]

I know where it is, but I have not been through it. I am planning on another trip to the Raptor Center and am planning on Buchardt Gardens in Vicoria.

I have not been to the Raptor Center, but I have been to the Gardens. They are beautiful.

The Bishop's House is interesting. The way that it was built was something. and the chaple was beautiful. Maybe your next trip there.

[Himself]

I walked into Kodiak this morning--about a mile from the ship. It is a delightful little town.
It was the First Russain Capital of Alaska. I found the Russian Orthodox Church but not the Catholic Church. There is quite a fishing industry in Kodiak and serveral fish processing plants there. I brought my umbrella--just in case--but as usual, when I bring an umbrella the sun came out. We let loose our mooring lines and took off for Hubbard Glacier. We should arrive there by two P.M. Tomorrow afternoon.

I had the non-denominational Christian Ecummenical Service at 4PM and Mass at 5PM.
Someone from the Cruise Critic said "Father Himself, what is your real name?" First time someone on this cruise recognised me.

All in all it was a lovely day in Kodiak and I saw no Kodaik bears. They respected my territory and I respected their territory.
I will report in tomorrow.

Himself
This report is coming from the Amsterdam someplace on the Gulf of Alaska

[MightyQuinn]

... I found the Russian Orthodox Church but not the Catholic Church...Hi Father, I'm enjoying your Alaska adventure. Did you enter the Russian Orthodox Cathedral? We plan to take a peek inside when we're there, but probably not during Sunday liturgy service. Apparently the nearby St. Hermann's Seminary is also worth a visit.

Thanks for your reports and I hope you continue to enjoy your cruise!

[vbmom87]

Father, did you have any luck talking to security about bringing food off the ship?

[Krazy Kruizers]

Thank you for the reports.

I feel as though I am taking this cruise all over again.

[Himself]

Thank you for the reports.

I feel as though I am taking this cruise all over again.

I am sure that as others take this cruise and I read about it, it will be a reliving experience for me. This has been a great cruise.

[Sandi3667]

Thank you from me as well. We just did the 7-day Oosterdam cruise n May, and now I really want to do this trip.

[Himself]

Thank you from me as well. We just did the 7-day Oosterdam cruise n May, and now I really want to do this trip.

I have certainly enjoyed this trip and I highly recommend this trip. The time has really gone by fast. I am very glad I chose to do this cruise. I would hope to do it again in some future year.
Himself

[Himself]

This morning we have had some rain. I have not seen the Sun today. The Captain just gave the "Report from the Bridge" he announced that we would be taking on the Bay pilot and Rangers as we entered the Bay around 1:30PM--it is now 1:03 PM so I will be heading to my room and bundeling up and heading out to the outside decks for the journey to Hubbard's Glacier.

Himself

[ANSalberg]

Himself- I'm enjoying your adventure! Thank you for the daily reports!

[RoupMom]

Besides enjoying your tour report (we'll do that trip beginning Aug. 19), I chuckle every time I read your signature, and think of Blackie Ryan. :D

[Himself]

Besides enjoying your tour report (we'll do that trip beginning Aug. 19), I chuckle every time I read your signature, and think of Blackie Ryan. :D

You will be starting your tour the day before my birthday. Who is Blickie Ryan?

[Himself]

Himself- I'm enjoying your adventure! Thank you for the daily reports!

I am glad you are enjoyng the reports. I am enjoying the cruise.

[Himself]

We got very close to the Glacier and it was an awsome experience. Did see some calving and it was worth the patience. I still love Glacier Bay but for calving, Hubbard Glacier cannot be beat.

Therw was too much cloud cover to St. Mt. Elias but the Glacier did not disappoint. Wish you could have been here to watch it with me. If you have any questions I will be glad to answer them.

Now we are on the way to Sitka.

Himself

P.S. Near the end of Dinner we had a school of Dolphins performing outside the dining room window.

[Himself]

Father,

If you have some spare time and are so inclined, do you think you could find out from a knowledgable staff person on the ship if passengers are allowed to bring food off the ship? This topic has been discussed often and there are some who insist you are not allowed to take food off the ship at the ports unless it is prepackaged. When I ask them to please send me a link to where this policy is stated, I never get a response.

On our Alaskan cruise in 2008 the only day I heard an announcement about not bringing food off the ship was on our last day when we were disembarking in Seward. I never saw it on the daily newsletters or on any signs as we were getting off the ship.

I would really like to find out the answer to this question. I am not one to violate rules. However, I would like to know if there truly is a ban on bringing food off the ship in Alaskan ports. If there is not a ban, I would like to order sandwiches from room service so we can take them off the ship. We don't do this to save money, but rather time. We love to go, go, go when we are in port so we can see all there is to see. If we don't have to waste precious touring time to grab a bite to eat, we could definitely see more of Alaska.

While I was in Hubbard Glacier I was out on the Forward Bow of the ship and I was talking to a knowledgable Security Person I have gotten to know and I brought up the question and he claified that one CANNOT BRING FOOD OFF THE SHIP.
Himself

[Krazy Kruizers]

Of all the times we have been to Hubbard Glacier -- this year was the first time we were not able to get close to the glacier -- and there was no calving!!

[Math Guy]

Now we are on the way to Sitka.

Himself


The tender into Sitka will also give you an opportunity to view some magnificent eagles.

[vbmom87]

While I was in Hubbard Glacier I was out on the Forward Bow of the ship and I was talking to a knowledgable Security Person I have gotten to know and I brought up the question and he claified that one CANNOT BRING FOOD OFF THE SHIP.
Himself

Thank you very much for asking. I still don't understand why they don't post this and make it common knowledge. It would suck to be fined for something you didn't know was banned. If I had not read this forum, I would have no idea you shouldn't bring food off the ship. Thanks again. Glad to hear you are having such a great time.

The Hubbard/Glacier Bay debate is always an interesting one. After reading these boards now for about 5 years, I have come to the conclusion that the split is about 50/50. I loved Glacier Bay and can't imagine the experience of Hubbard topping it. I will likely agree that Hubbard glacier itself is far more impressive than any glacier you will see in Glacier Bay. However, I just can't imagine liking it better. However, I will reserve my final opinion until I get to see it.

This is the first year I have read of so many people reporting they saw no or very little calving at Hubbard Glacier. Many have said the calving at Glacier Bay was far better this year. I wonder what is it about this year that has stalled the calving of Hubbard.

[Watson's aunt]

Hi

We also June 10th did not get close enough to see glacier and saw no caving. A big disappoinment for me. But After I got of ship I just made me just want to come back. Thinking ahead I may see if I can get a group togethe and do a land tour of Alaska. 1 cruise on Amsterdam then following year land tour. I saw some wonderful tours out of Anchorage for one or two days. Plus using the ferries to get point to point. I can dream. would love to get back to Mendenhall Glacier where I can't believe I had another camera problem my fault I forgot to put the flash card in and did not know it until I had to change battery. The sun came out and I have noting to show because it started to rain. One thing about Mendenhall glacier while there was losts of ice and large iceburg's in the water I saw no carving


Mary

[Himself]

I am in the public library were I get 20 minutes of FREE internet. Was at the Raptor Center this morning and loved every minute of it. Also got a tour of Sitka highlights. Went back to the ship for lunch and then came back into town to go to the drug store. Before I went into St. Michael's Cathedral, I got some pictures of an eagle on top of the cross. This is worth seeing just for the ICONS. I do love Icons. If I were building a Church I would want stained glass windows that were in the style of ICONS.
The salmon are literally jumping out of the water over near where the tenders dock. Am having a wonderful cruise, I wish you were here to share it with me. Any Questions
Himself
This is coming to you live form the Sitka public library were I am looking at the AMSTERDAM in the Harbor.

[vbmom87]

Father,
How are you finding the service on the ship?

[Himself]

Hi

We also June 10th did not get close enough to see glacier and saw no caving. A big disappoinment for me. But After I got of ship I just made me just want to come back. Thinking ahead I may see if I can get a group togethe and do a land tour of Alaska. 1 cruise on Amsterdam then following year land tour. I saw some wonderful tours out of Anchorage for one or two days. Plus using the ferries to get point to point. I can dream. would love to get back to Mendenhall Glacier where I can't believe I had another camera problem my fault I forgot to put the flash card in and did not know it until I had to change battery. The sun came out and I have noting to show because it started to rain. One thing about Mendenhall glacier while there was losts of ice and large iceburg's in the water I saw no carving


Mary

That was too bad. You should have been there yesterday when the AMSTERDAM was in.
We were within a mile of the Glacier. It was at times spectacular.

[Himself]

Father,
How are you finding the service on the ship?

For the most part I am finding it excellent. Tonight was the "Master Chef Dinner" and I was not too hungry and I ate up in the Lido. (I had a minute steak, some greens and a few fries.
The staff up there could not have been nicer to me. I have found the service in the dining room to be very good and I would say the service overall has been excellent!

[JamesEM]

Father, what nights are the Formal Nights in the MDR for this cruise?

[Himself]

We have had four Formal nights on this cruise. The first full day at Sea--Saturday--the day before Anchorage--Thursday night--Sunday evening--between Kodaik and Hubbard Glacier and tomorrow (Wednesday) our last full day at Sea.

[Krazy Kruizers]

For the most part I am finding it excellent. Tonight was the "Master Chef Dinner" and I was not too hungry and I ate up in the Lido. (I had a minute steak, some greens and a few fries.
The staff up there could not have been nicer to me. I have found the service in the dining room to be very good and I would say the service overall has been excellent!

On the Master Chef Dinner -- Sitka for us -- was also the night of Le Cirque in the Pinnacle.

I knew this before we left on the cruise -- so on embarkation day we made a reservation for Canaletto that evening - wonderful.

[Krazy Kruizers]

We have had four Formal nights on this cruise. The first full day at Sea--Saturday--the day before Anchorage--Thursday night--Sunday evening--between Kodaik and Hubbard Glacier and tomorrow (Wednesday) our last full day at Sea.

Yes -- those were the same evenings we had formal nights as well.

[ANSalberg]

I am in the public library were I get 20 minutes of FREE internet. Was at the Raptor Center this morning and loved every minute of it. Also got a tour of Sitka highlights. Went back to the ship for lunch and then came back into town to go to the drug store. Before I went into St. Michael's Cathedral, I got some pictures of an eagle on top of the cross. This is worth seeing just for the ICONS. I do love Icons. If I were building a Church I would want stained glass windows that were in the style of ICONS.
The salmon are literally jumping out of the water over near where the tenders dock. Am having a wonderful cruise, I wish you were here to share it with me. Any Questions
Himself
This is coming to you live form the Sitka public library were I am looking at the AMSTERDAM in the Harbor.

It just doesn't GET any better, does it? Free internet/eagles/salmon and the PUBLIC library!!!! What a cruise; one you won't forget quickly! ;) Anne

[Himself]

It just doesn't GET any better, does it? Free internet/eagles/salmon and the PUBLIC library!!!! What a cruise; one you won't forget quickly! ;) Anne


I certainly hope I do not forget this one quickly!

[Himself]

Today we are at Sea. Last night I had a minute steak up in the Lido which I enjoyed very much. There is not too much to turn me on in the dining room tonight so we will see what is upstarirs. We went back on Pacific time over night. I got up at 5 AM to do some laundry. We are at sea today. It reminds me of the old story "I joined the navy to see wht world and what did I see? I saw the sea!" We are on the Pacific Ocean rather than the inside passage. This tends to make me very sleepy. I will write later.

Himself

This report came to you live from the Pacific Ocean. Tho only reason I am not falling in is that I am on the m.s. AMSTERDAM!

[vbmom87]

Today we are at Sea. Last night I had a minute steak up in the Lido which I enjoyed very much. There is not too much to turn me on in the dining room tonight so we will see what is upstarirs. We went back on Pacific time over night. I got up at 5 AM to do some laundry. We are at sea today. It reminds me of the old story "I joined the navy to see wht world and what did I see? I saw the sea!" We are on the Pacific Ocean rather than the inside passage. This tends to make me very sleepy. I will write later.
Himself
This report came to you live from the Pacific Ocean. Tho only reason I am not falling in is that I am on the m.s. AMSTERDAM!

I was always told the laundry rooms were closed through the night. Have you found the laundry rooms open 24 hours a day?

I am not looking forward to the sea days on the open ocean. I pray we will meet with some pretty calm seas the days we are out. I have been seasick on a ferry going across Lake Michigan. It was not pretty. :eek:

[Himself]

I was always told the laundry rooms were closed through the night. Have you found the laundry rooms open 24 hours a day?

I am not looking forward to the sea days on the open ocean. I pray we will meet with some pretty calm seas the days we are out. I have been seasick on a ferry going across Lake Michigan. It was not pretty. :eek:

Regarding the self serve laundry--shhhh.
Regarding the open sea, tod It has been much nicer thaniLake Michigan without stabelizers.
I walked two miles on the lower proenade deck this afternoon!

[vbmom87]

I walked two miles on the lower proenade deck this afternoon!

Our cabin is on the lower promenade and I am hoping to get in a lot of walking on this cruise.

[Watson's aunt]

Mary

buy those sea bands thay fit on your wrists. I only took my off only to shower. Just keep them on. The sea was calm when I was there. I got mine at Walmart.

still trying to get my photo's together

Have a wonderful cruise

Mary

[vbmom87]

Mary

buy those sea bands thay fit on your wrists. I only took my off only to shower. Just keep them on. The sea was calm when I was there. I got mine at Walmart.

still trying to get my photo's together

Have a wonderful cruise

Mary

Believe me after that experience on the ferry, I was well prepared in Alaska. I wore a seaband 24/7, even in the shower. I had two so after my shower I could change it. I also took Bonine every night. I still got queasy numerous times and would then take 2 ginger root capsules. They always did the trick, thank goodness. SInce that cruise I have purchased the electronic sea band called a Relief Band. I understand they work very well for most people, but so far haven't had to test it out. Unfortunately you now need a prescrpition for it and they are throw away now. When the battery dies, you toss them. Mine has a replaceable battery. I hope I don't need to test it, but I will have it if I need it.

[Himself]

Believe me after that experience on the ferry, I was well prepared in Alaska. I wore a seaband 24/7, even in the shower. I had two so after my shower I could change it. I also took Bonine every night. I still got queasy numerous times and would then take 2 ginger root capsules. They always did the trick, thank goodness. SInce that cruise I have purchased the electronic sea band called a Relief Band. I understand they work very well for most people, but so far haven't had to test it out. Unfortunately you now need a prescrpition for it and they are throw away now. When the battery dies, you toss them. Mine has a replaceable battery. I hope I don't need to test it, but I will have it if I need it.

The front office usually has some pills to help with sea sickness. I am blessed, I have not had it yet. This cruise, in my opinion has not been bad out here on the Pacific Ocean. Last July I was on the Rotterdam and our trip up on the outside was very rough. I did not get sick but it was rough and as soon as we got into Stephens Passage I thought "we are okey now", and I went sound asleep. That has not been my experience this year. The rolling factors, which are bound to happen, have been most minimal.
Himself.

[Himself]

It started out rainy this morning but as the day went on things cleared a bit and "old sol" came out in glory this afternoon. I was hoping to get to Buchardt Gardens tomorrow and still might. However my plane goes off at 12:30 on Friday and I have be here to check in on line on Friday and get my group selection on South West. Since I want to be in the A section, I better be on line at 12:30PM. I will catch the shuttle into town and see if I can get something up there. I will leave the ship and 9:30 on Friday morning and head to the airport.

It was a bit sad tonight in the Dining Room as the Indonesian waters sang their farewell song and that always gets me a bit. I have never been glad to get off a ship and I always feel a bit sad when I get to the end of a cruise.

End of Report for evening.

[vbmom87]

ItI was hoping to get to Buchardt Gardens tomorrow and still might.
End of Report for evening.

So happy to hear you are having a wonderful cruise. I am planning on doing the same. I don't leave for two weeks, but I have started packing. Can you tell I am excited. :D

As far as Butchart Gardens, if you want to get there cheaply, you can take public transportation. Here are the instructions I copied from "Putterdude":

Just walk out of the terminal, cross the street, turn left and you will find a bus stop. Take a #30 or #31 bus to the Royal Oak exchange and then transfer to a #75 bus; you just reverse the procedure coming back. Your fare each way is $2.50 pp or $1.65 if a senior....CDN funds only.


I hope you make it!!! We are really looking forward to seeing the gardens. We hear they are beautiful and a must see.

[Himself]

So happy to hear you are having a wonderful cruise. I am planning on doing the same. I don't leave for two weeks, but I have started packing. Can you tell I am excited. :D

As far as Butchart Gardens, if you want to get there cheaply, you can take public transportation. Here are the instructions I copied from "Putterdude":

Just walk out of the terminal, cross the street, turn left and you will find a bus stop. Take a #30 or #31 bus to the Royal Oak exchange and then transfer to a #75 bus; you just reverse the procedure coming back. Your fare each way is $2.50 pp or $1.65 if a senior....CDN funds only.


I hope you make it!!! We are really looking forward to seeing the gardens. We hear they are beautiful and a must see.


Thank you for the informattion. I have gotten to know you quite well over the past couple of weeks. Yours will be the next two week cruise on the AMSTERDAM. I understand there are two one week charter cruises coming up and then your cruise goes back to the two week cruise. I will, of course, watch your postings with interest.

[MightyQuinn]

...As far as Butchart Gardens, if you want to get there cheaply, you can take public transportation...If you chose to take public transit to Butchart, please make sure to check schedules for the various bus routes. While it will certainly be cheaper than other options, you may well lose considerable time in making connections, either going or coming back. I'm sure you know that CVS runs a bus shuttle for a fixed price (C$50 pp) that includes admission to Butchart. A little more $$ but a lot less worry. Just saying' ...

http://www.cvscruisevictoria.com/schedules_butchart.html
(http://www.butchartgardens.com/planning-your-visit/where-are-the-gardens/victoria-cruise-ship-passengers.html)

[vbmom87]

If you chose to take public transit to Butchart, please make sure to check schedules for the various bus routes. While it will certainly be cheaper than other options, you may well lose considerable time in making connections, either going or coming back. I'm sure you know that CVS runs a bus shuttle for a fixed price (C$50 pp) that includes admission to Butchart. A little more $$ but a lot less worry. Just saying' ...

http://www.cvscruisevictoria.com/schedules_butchart.html
(http://www.cvscruisevictoria.com/schedules_butchart.html)

Yup, another good option, especially since they added times. Originally their schedule did not work well for the Amsterdam. It has many more choices now.

You could also take the shuttle from the ship to downtown and pick up the #75 there. Lots of options to choose from. Some take taxis, but that is very costly.

[Watson's aunt]

Hi

I took the 50.00 shuttle to Butchart Gardens.

here is time table

leave downtown
9 Am, 9:45, 10:30,11:15,12:55pm,1:10,2:20,4:00pm

Arrive at Butterfly
9:30, 10:15,11.00,11:45,12:40,1:40,2:50,4:30

Arrive at Butchart
9:30,10:20,11:05,11:50,12:45,1:45,2:55,4:30

Leave Butchart
9:35,10:20,11;15,12:00,12:55,1:55,3:05,4:45

Arrive Downtown
10:10,10:55,11:50,12:35,1:30.2:30,3:40,5:20,6:50

buses do fill up

Mary

[Watson's aunt]

Hi Father did you sign up for luggage direct? If you did you will get your boarding pass with your tages. there is a travel place you might be able to get your boarding ticket there. Or right up the street there is a Marrott I am sure they will let you print out your boarding pass there. Or you can go to the ships computer and ask the lady if she would print out one for you... Good luck... going to miss your posts. Sorry to see your cruise ending I am sure you feel the same way I did when my cruise ended on June 24


Mary

[JamesEM]

Hi Father, when we were on the Noordam in Jan. we were able to purchase a special internet package on the last day of cruise that was inexpensive.

[fsdj1097]

Father,

Thanks so much for allowing us to follow along on your Amsterdam cruise. She is, indeed, a fine ship. I whole-heartedly agree with your feelings of sadness when a cruise comes to an end.

I wish you safe travels back home.

[Opinions]

However my plane goes off at 12:30 on Friday and I have be here to check in on line on Friday and get my group selection on South West. Since I want to be in the A section, I better be on line at 12:30PM.

In case you aren't aware of it Southwest has a Earlybird Check In program...For $10 each way you have a better chance to be in the A section...No guarantee but perhaps something to be considered.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Father

I hope that you do get to Butchard Gardens today.

[Himself]

Good morning friends:
I saw two whales very close to the ship at 7:00AM this morning. Right now we are about 44 nautical miles from Victoria, BC. On the Port side we can see Vancouver Island in the distance and we can see the Olympic Peninsula of the State of Washington on the Starboard side of the ship. So, why am I sitting at this computer. I will not get off the ship until I have my boarding pass taken care of and then we will try to make our way into town and up to Buchart Gardens. Mighty Quinn, thanks for the schedule and the link. I will look at the post until I leave the ship. Manhattan, Illinois I wil be back tomorrow night. I have missed the past three weekends in the parish. First weekend in Rome and the last two at Sea.

[Himself]

In case you aren't aware of it Southwest has a Earlybird Check In program...For $10 each way you have a better chance to be in the A section...No guarantee but perhaps something to be considered.

I ALWAYS do the "Early Bird" and I just booked in.. I am "A19" Better than being C59!

Now quick Lunch and here I come Victoria!

[erewhon]

Himself,

Hope you are able to visit the beautiful Butchart Gardens.

[kazu]

Father - so enjoying your posts and sad for you as it seems like it is going to end all to soon for both you and us:)

[klingoncruiser]

Thank you very much for asking. I still don't understand why they don't post this and make it common knowledge. It would suck to be fined for something you didn't know was banned. If I had not read this forum, I would have no idea you shouldn't bring food off the ship. Thanks again. Glad to hear you are having such a great time.

The Hubbard/Glacier Bay debate is always an interesting one. After reading these boards now for about 5 years, I have come to the conclusion that the split is about 50/50. I loved Glacier Bay and can't imagine the experience of Hubbard topping it. I will likely agree that Hubbard glacier itself is far more impressive than any glacier you will see in Glacier Bay. However, I just can't imagine liking it better. However, I will reserve my final opinion until I get to see it. I wonder what is it about this year that has stalled the calving of Hubbard.

FYI.... this year has been odd all across the northwest. It has been very cool and cloudy. One should NEVER go to Hubbard very early. The bay is still choked with ice and the glacier is not yet really active. All that being said, it is back on the watch list this year in Alaska. It has advanced once again very close to closing off the back bay area. Everyone has their fingers crossed that it wimps out before that happens.

Hubbard really is spectacular, but best viewed in Mid July and afterwards most years.
This is the first year I have read of so many people reporting they saw no or very little calving at Hubbard Glacier. Many have said the calving at Glacier Bay was far better this year. I wonder what is it about this year that has stalled the calving of Hubbard.[/quote]

[Himself]

FYI.... this year has been odd all across the northwest. It has been very cool and cloudy. One should NEVER go to Hubbard very early. The bay is still choked with ice and the glacier is not yet really active. All that being said, it is back on the watch list this year in Alaska. It has advanced once again very close to closing off the back bay area. Everyone has their fingers crossed that it wimps out before that happens.

Hubbard really is spectacular, but best viewed in Mid July and afterwards most years.
This is the first year I have read of so many people reporting they saw no or very little calving at Hubbard Glacier. Many have said the calving at Glacier Bay was far better this year. I wonder what is it about this year that has stalled the calving of Hubbard.[/QUOTE]

It was no disappointment this last Monday. We were able to get within less than a mile of it and it was active. I was not disappointed in Hubbard's Glacker.

[Himself]

I went outside the ship after lunch and got the CVS bus into town. I then took a CVS bus out to Butchart Gardens. I got out there by before three and got a bus back about 5PM. The bus was late getting out due to rush hour traffic. I was blessed in that the bus was coming out here anyway and so I stayed on the Bus. The Gardens were BETTER than I imagined. They are so beautiful and I was glad I made the trip out there. This was my fourth trip to Victoria and the first time I got to the Butchart Gardens. They would be worth experienceing a second time. I had a great time out there.

When we arrived this morning the Royal Caribbean Rapsody of the Seas was in. When I returned from my Victoria trip the Rapsody was getting ready to leave and the Celebrity Infinity was docked and is still here.

I have just finished supper and now I have to pack--these little things in life.

[vbmom87]

Father, so happy to hear you enjoyed the gardens. We are looking forward to seeing them. We are fortunate our cruise ship has such a long docking time in Victoria. So many are just there in the late evening. It must be sad for you to be ending this cruise. Sounds like you had a marvelous time. I know it will be the same for us. My Bob and I are pretty easy to please people. We have been to Alaska once and know the scenery will blow us away one more time. Everything else is secondary.

Tonight I worked on some more packing for my cruise. I have never packed this early before. However, a good friend is having surgery several days before we leave, and I want to be there for her. My goal is to have everything packed by Tuesday night except for the last minute items that will have to go in.

Father, I have a question about daily Mass. Does HAL choose the times, or does each priest decide the times that suit them best?

Have a blessed and safe journey home!!! I am sure I will catch you on the boards now and then. God bless you!!!!

[Himself]

Father, so happy to hear you enjoyed the gardens. We are looking forward to seeing them. We are fortunate our cruise ship has such a long docking time in Victoria. So many are just there in the late evening. It must be sad for you to be ending this cruise. Sounds like you had a marvelous time. I know it will be the same for us. My Bob and I are pretty easy to please people. We have been to Alaska once and know the scenery will blow us away one more time. Everything else is secondary.

Tonight I worked on some more packing for my cruise. I have never packed this early before. However, a good friend is having surgery several days before we leave, and I want to be there for her. My goal is to have everything packed by Tuesday night except for the last minute items that will have to go in.

Father, I have a question about daily Mass. Does HAL choose the times, or does each priest decide the times that suit them best?

Have a blessed and safe journey home!!! I am sure I will catch you on the boards now and then. God bless you!!!!


HAL chooses the times and Father shows up. On Port days the Mass is at 5PM. On Sea Days it is usually 8:00 AM unless it is Saturday. Then the Mass is always at 5PM.

I hope you enjoy this cruise half as much as I did and keep up posted so I can live it vicarioulsy through you.

[vbmom87]

HAL chooses the times and Father shows up. On Port days the Mass is at 5PM. On Sea Days it is usually 8:00 AM unless it is Saturday. Then the Mass is always at 5PM.

I hope you enjoy this cruise half as much as I did and keep up posted so I can live it vicarioulsy through you.

I doubt I will be doing a live report, but I will be sure to report back upon my return.

[MightyQuinn]

The Gardens were BETTER than I imagined. They are so beautiful and I was glad I made the trip out there. This was my fourth trip to Victoria and the first time I got to the Butchart Gardens. They would be worth experiencing a second time.Father Himself, I am so glad that you made it to Butchart. The gardens are truly spectacular and certainly worth seeing more than once. We have Annual Passes and go several times each season. It never gets old, even for a local.

Next time, you might want to consider a whale watching trip, especially if you didn't get your fill in Alaska. If you time it just right, you may hit Superpod, when our 3 pods of resident orcas come together for a big party. It's magic.

I'll listen for the Amsterdam farewell toot tonite. Safe travels back home. :):)

[Watson's aunt]

yes I was disappointed I was not close enough to see the glacier and see any calving. I was thrilled to see all the ice and Iceburgs in the water. I was so wexcited in Tracy Arm and then at glacier its was really a small disappointed. I wanted to see calving more than anything but the ice and burgs more than made up for it. I did read where everyone was worried that Hubbard was moving toward the land and might block off the channel? that would cause a lot of damage to the fishing and tours. Hopfully it will stop.


Mary

[Himself]

Gene Autry (Remember him?) used to sing "I'm back in the Saddle Again." Well my friends for the past 45 minutes, the m.s. AMSTERDAM has been docked in Seattle again. The voyage is over. I catch a 12:20 Plane out of Seattle and land this evening on what pilates have called "llike landing on a Postage Stamp" that is at Midway Airport and then I do the long drive back to Manhattan, Illinois. It has been a marvelous two weeks. MIDDLE AGED MOM recommended this cruise to me last July and it was an outstanding recommendation.
Talk to you all soon.
Himself

[Himself]

Father Himself, I am so glad that you made it to Butchart. The gardens are truly spectacular and certainly worth seeing more than once. We have Annual Passes and go several times each season. It never gets old, even for a local.

Next time, you might want to consider a whale watching trip, especially if you didn't get your fill in Alaska. If you time it just right, you may hit Superpod, when our 3 pods of resident orcas come together for a big party. It's magic.

I'll listen for the Amsterdam farewell toot tonite. Safe travels back home. :):)

Since you were listening for the "farewell toot" you must live in or near Victoria. If I lived in Victoria, I would probable have an annual pass and go there a few times a year.
I slept on the bus all the way up. I presume that the gardens are quite a bit North of the City. Am I correct?

[geocruiser]

Father,

Have a safe trip back home. I enjoyed reading all about your cruise.

[MightyQuinn]

Himself, I heard the gentle toot of a ship's horn at 11:27 pm last nite and thought it must be Amsterdam. But nooo! It was Celebrity Infinity. That's what I get for turning in early. :o:o

Yes, you're right about Butchart. It's located ~25 km north of Victoria in Brentwood Bay. It's a relatively uninteresting highway drive, so you missed nothing by having a snooze. The gardens are great in all seasons. Our fave is actually what they call their 5th season, which is during Christmas/New Years, when the grounds are decked out in festive lights and decorations. Truly a visual feast!

Thanks again for your reporting live from Amsterdam. We will take this cruise soon and are very excited about it.

[RoupMom]

Father, I hope you will still get this. I'm sorry I didn't respond when you asked the question, but I've been on retreat and am just trying to catch up. Blackie Ryan is the protagonist in a series of Andrew Greeley novels.
Kathie

[Himself]

I am now back in Manhattan and the cruise is fast becoming a memory. I might add it is a very happy memory. I got home Friday nite after they had a power failure here and the internet was not back up until yesterday afternoon. Have to run now and get ready for Mass.

[vbmom87]

I am now back in Manhattan and the cruise is fast becoming a memory. I might add it is a very happy memory. I got home Friday nite after they had a power failure here and the internet was not back up until yesterday afternoon. Have to run now and get ready for Mass.


Happy to hear you are safely home!!

[Math Guy]

Gene Autry (Remember him?) used to sing "I'm back in the Saddle Again." Well my friends for the past 45 minutes, the m.s. AMSTERDAM has been docked in Seattle again. The voyage is over. I catch a 12:20 Plane out of Seattle and land this evening on what pilates have called "llike landing on a Postage Stamp" that is at Midway Airport and then I do the long drive back to Manhattan, Illinois. It has been a marvelous two weeks. MIDDLE AGED MOM recommended this cruise to me last July and it was an outstanding recommendation.
Talk to you all soon.
Himself
I saw Gene Autry and Champion in 1954, when I was 7.
Here's a memory :
http://www.last.Fm/music/Gene+Autry/_/Back+in+the+Saddle+Again

[Himself]

Father, I hope you will still get this. I'm sorry I didn't respond when you asked the question, but I've been on retreat and am just trying to catch up. Blackie Ryan is the protagonist in a series of Andrew Greeley novels.
Kathie


I might have known!

[Himself]

I saw Gene Autry and Champion in 1954, when I was 7.
Here's a memory :
http://www.last.Fm/music/Gene+Autry/_/Back+in+the+Saddle+Again

It does bring back memories of long ago!

[Himself]

Do I need to do a review or was this day by day scouting report good enough to satify alll?

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Do I need to do a review or was this day by day scouting report good enough to satify alll?
No you definitely do not need to do a review, that is exactly why I report LIVE, so i do not have to do a review in the end :D Although I have been know to make a few final comments once I am home ;)

Welcome Home to Hot and Humid Illinois, although i do know where you would rather be.

[Himself]

Thanks Lisa. come winter Illinois will be so cold I will be in Ft. Lauderdale and see it 83 and think, I could get used to this in a hurry.

[luvtwotrvl]

Welcome back, Himself!

David

[kjoeb]

my niece and i are traveling your route next june1. we promise to maintain your great attitude about life. kb

[JamesEM]

Thanks for sharing your cruise with us, glad to see that your are back home safely.

[Himself]

my niece and i are traveling your route next june1. we promise to maintain your great attitude about life. kb

I HOPE it is the same route. A drawing looked to me like they would go up oceanside next time rather than the inside passage.

[Loreto]

Welcome home! I enjoyed reading your reports. We are on this cruise in Sept. and took it last year....sorry Skagway was dropped, but looking forward to new stops.

Karen

[vbmom87]

I HOPE it is the same route. A drawing looked to me like they would go up oceanside next time rather than the inside passage.

So sad, so sad!!!!

So glad I did the trip this year.

[SharonN]

Do I need to do a review or was this day by day scouting report good enough to satify alll?


Glad you made it home safe and hope the heat wasn't too much of a shock. Thanks so much for your scouting report. We'll be on this cruise in just over 5 weeks (the first 2 weeks of Sep) so it was great to get a preview of what's to come. It will be my 4th trip to Alaska but 4 of the ports are new for me so really looking forward to them. Thanks again.

[Lemur]

Do I need to do a review or was this day by day scouting report good enough to satify alll?

Dear Father,

It was fantastic reading your blow-by-blow account of your trip. I know it may have gone quickly for you, but it also seemed too short from this end too!;)

Thanks for taking the time to report and welcome home.

Lemur

[hpf]

Thanks Father for takeing the time to report on your cruise. It was interesting to hear about the port's that i haven't been to.
Hope it isn't too cold this winter in Illionis.

Helen

[Watson's aunt]

No

I saving to do this next year. I want to sail up the inside passage. I made the mistake of sleeping..



Mary

[vbmom87]

No

I saving to do this next year. I want to sail up the inside passage. I made the mistake of sleeping..

Mary

Mary, do you know that the itinerary map that HAL has on their website for the Amsterdam for next year, does not travel to the East of Vancouver Island when the ship is going Northbound? If this map is correct, the cruiseship will be sailing to the West of Vancouver Island going NB. This is the route the AMsterdam returned to Seattle by this year going Southbound. Next year, it looks like both directions is the less scenic route. Someone should contact HAL. Hopefully someone just posted the wrong routing, but if it is the correct routing, it is going to be a big disappointment. Bob and I debated going next year instead of this year. So glad we didn't wait. Last year the trip included Glacier Bay. This year they went with Tracy Arm. If the Amsterdam cruises to the West of Vancouver Island next year, you have another downgrade for this cruise. Very disappointing!!! HAL is messing with a good thing, and that is never good.

[Himself]

Welcome home! I enjoyed reading your reports. We are on this cruise in Sept. and took it last year....sorry Skagway was dropped, but looking forward to new stops.

Karen

Personally, so was I disappointed. I like Skagway much better than ICY STRAIT

Himself

[Krazy Kruizers]

Mary, do you know that the itinerary map that HAL has on their website for the Amsterdam for next year, does not travel to the East of Vancouver Island when the ship is going Northbound? If this map is correct, the cruiseship will be sailing to the West of Vancouver Island going NB. This is the route the AMsterdam returned to Seattle by this year going Southbound. Next year, it looks like both directions is the less scenic route. Someone should contact HAL. Hopefully someone just posted the wrong routing, but if it is the correct routing, it is going to be a big disappointment. Bob and I debated going next year instead of this year. So glad we didn't wait. Last year the trip included Glacier Bay. This year they went with Tracy Arm. If the Amsterdam cruises to the West of Vancouver Island next year, you have another downgrade for this cruise. Very disappointing!!! HAL is messing with a good thing, and that is never good.

I noticed this as well -- the route for leaving Seattle.

Only so many ships each year can visit Glacier Bay -- HAL has no say in the decision.

[Watson's aunt]

Yes Mary I notice none of Amsterdam's cruises are going north voa inside passage. If you go to HA website and look at Itinerary it tells you Vancouver Island cruising. This year it says Inside passage. Big mistake for HA


Mary

[Himself]

Yes Mary I notice none of Amsterdam's cruises are going north voa inside passage. If you go to HA website and look at Itinerary it tells you Vancouver Island cruising. This year it says Inside passage. Big mistake for HA


Mary


Hopefuuly HAL will change this

[rjm1cc]

I walked into Kodiak this morning--about a mile from the ship. It is a delightful little town.
It was the First Russain Capital of Alaska. I found the Russian Orthodox Church but not the Catholic Church. There is quite a fishing industry in Kodiak and serveral fish processing plants there. I brought my umbrella--just in case--but as usual, when I bring an umbrella the sun came out. We let loose our mooring lines and took off for Hubbard Glacier. We should arrive there by two P.M. Tomorrow afternoon.

I had the non-denominational Christian Ecummenical Service at 4PM and Mass at 5PM.
Someone from the Cruise Critic said "Father Himself, what is your real name?" First time someone on this cruise recognised me.

All in all it was a lovely day in Kodiak and I saw no Kodaik bears. They respected my territory and I respected their territory.
I will report in tomorrow.

Himself
This report is coming from the Amsterdam someplace on the Gulf of Alaska

Would it be possible to use a manual wheelchair for the walk? Is their a sidewalk or do you have to walk along the highway?

[Himself]

once you leave the dock area, there is a sidewak on one side of the street.

[rjm1cc]

once you leave the dock area, there is a sidewak on one side of the street.
Thank you, I have been looking for that answer.

[Himself]

I have been back home for a week and wish I was back in Alaska on the AMSTERDAM. It was a great cruise.

[vbmom87]

I have been back home for a week and wish I was back in Alaska on the AMSTERDAM. It was a great cruise.

Nice to hear how much you miss your cruise. Makes me all the more excited. I have to say after reading quite a few of the reviews of returning cruisers from this ship, I have to wonder if they were all on the same ship. So many very different experiences.

Do you recall if the TVs on the Amsterdam have the inputs where you can attach your camera to view your photos?

[TiogaCruiser]

Would it be possible to use a manual wheelchair for the walk? Is their a sidewalk or do you have to walk along the highway?

We took this trip last year. HAL had a free shuttle to take those who had mobility issues in to town. Those who could walk were requested to do so or were requested to allow those who needed the ride to go first.

~TC

[Corby114]

I have been back home for a week and wish I was back in Alaska on the AMSTERDAM. It was a great cruise.

We are also home a week now. We enjoyed this cruise so much, that I'm finding myself looking to Alaska again. Would love to see more of interior Alaska, combining that with a cruise. This 14 day cruise was magical.

Chris

[BumperII]

I have been back home for a week and wish I was back in Alaska on the AMSTERDAM. It was a great cruise.

Alaska does that to you!! We will be boarding the Amsterdam on Friday. This will be our sixth two week cruise in that part of the world, first time out of Seattle. Thanks for the reports and observations. It gives us a broader idea of what to look for.

[Himself]

Nice to hear how much you miss your cruise. Makes me all the more excited. I have to say after reading quite a few of the reviews of returning cruisers from this ship, I have to wonder if they were all on the same ship. So many very different experiences.

Do you recall if the TVs on the Amsterdam have the inputs where you can attach your camera to view your photos?

I am not that deft when it comes to those things. I even need someone to guide me through transefering the pictures from my camera to my computer.

[Himself]

We took this trip last year. HAL had a free shuttle to take those who had mobility issues in to town. Those who could walk were requested to do so or were requested to allow those who needed the ride to go first.

~TC

It was the same thing this year. I chose to walk into town.

[Himself]

We are also home a week now. We enjoyed this cruise so much, that I'm finding myself looking to Alaska again. Would love to see more of interior Alaska, combining that with a cruise. This 14 day cruise was magical.

Chris

We chose the right year to take that one as the AMSTERDAM went up on the "inside passage" which was quite delightful.

[Himself]

Alaska does that to you!! We will be boarding the Amsterdam on Friday. This will be our sixth two week cruise in that part of the world, first time out of Seattle. Thanks for the reports and observations. It gives us a broader idea of what to look for.

Have a great cruise.

[ANSalberg]

Himself. I'm so glad you felt a real connection with your Alaskan cruise and the "Amsterdam" . Its a bit of history, a bit of adventure, a bit of luxury and a trip to a place where things are 'different' [ My kids loved the fishing on the Kienai and we love a train trip up to Fairbanks/gold mining] Of COURSE you'd love to be continuing your adventure!
But you have more adventures ahead of you JUST around the 'corner' -maybe on a different ship or a new itinerary. I just KNOW you are thinking/looking ahead -MORE than behind...Just waiting for the "next time".
Life is GOOD :) Anne

[fleckle]

I am not that deft when it comes to those things. I even need someone to guide me through transefering the pictures from my camera to my computer.The Amsterdam has a great tech support/computer guy named Frank who is happy to show people how to do that. He will answer all sorts of questions about cameras and computers.

For those cruising on the Amsterdam, he can usually be found in a computer lab room on the port side of deck 5 behind the elevators directly in front of the main dining room. He also offers classes there that are listed in the daily schedule.

[TracieABD]

Hi, Father-
I missed seeing you this year. I was in China while you were floating about Alaska. I hope that your cruise was wonderful. I have a cruise planned for December, so I will be back on the boards.
I hope you are well-
Tracie-Lynn

p.s. I still think you have the coolest job EVER!:)

[Himself]

Tracie:
My friend from the Rotterdam days last Summer. Triacie: This was the BEST Alaskan cruise I have ever been on and in my opinion the AMSTERDAM is the best ship in the fleet--if you will the whole DAM fleet. I will go again at the end of January and early Februay.

You say you were in China--how was it? I was in China nine months after the incidents in Tianamen Square and it was tense. The only place I did not notice the Tension was in Shanghi.

[vbmom87]

Father, I have a question about Sunday Mass on the Amsterdam. Are both the Saturday and Sunday Masses the Sunday liturgy?

[Himself]

Father, I have a question about Sunday Mass on the Amsterdam. Are both the Saturday and Sunday Masses the Sunday liturgy?

On Saturday, I do the "anticipated Mass" at 5:00 even if we are at Sea. On your particular cruise you are in Port on Both Sundays and so I did the Interdeminational Christian Service at 4 PM and then Mass for the PAX at 5:00 PM.

I know you must be quite anxious as you sail on Friday and I wish I was returning.

[Himself]

It has been four weeks since I went through the Seymour Narrows and I still miss and treasure that cruise. It was a very memorable one and I am glad I was able to post for the reading pleasure of so many. I would recommend this cruise to anyone and someday I might do it again.

[twodogmom]

This was the BEST Alaskan cruise I have ever been on and in my opinion the AMSTERDAM is the best ship in the fleet--if you will the whole DAM fleet. I will go again at the end of January and early Februay.

Does that mean you will be on a segment of the World Cruise in 2012??? If so it would be great meeting you. I have enjoyed your post so much.

donna

[SharonN]

It has been four weeks since I went through the Seymour Narrows and I still miss and treasure that cruise. It was a very memorable one and I am glad I was able to post for the reading pleasure of so many. I would recommend this cruise to anyone and someday I might do it again.


And in 4 weeks we'll be on that cruise :) And thanks to your post about the Seymour Narrows we'll be sure to check the time for it on our cruise so we don't miss it.

[vbmom87]

We made it back safely last night after a wonderful, wonderful cruise!!! This will be a long remembered vacation. Everything went well...the flights, the weather, the excursions, the ship, etc. We are so glad we chose this cruise and this timing. We couldn't have been happier. Thank you Father for all your tidbits that helped us prepare well for this cruise. God bless you and happy and safe travels ahead for you!!!

[Himself]

We made it back safely last night after a wonderful, wonderful cruise!!! This will be a long remembered vacation. Everything went well...the flights, the weather, the excursions, the ship, etc. We are so glad we chose this cruise and this timing. We couldn't have been happier. Thank you Father for all your tidbits that helped us prepare well for this cruise. God bless you and happy and safe travels ahead for you!!!

I was hoping you would give us a review. By the way, I had correspondence via e-mail with the priest who was chaplain for the cruise. You were blessed rto have this fine man as a Chaplain. He and I were on the same trip to Medjugorje during Holy Week of 1998.

[vbmom87]

I was hoping you would give us a review. By the way, I had correspondence via e-mail with the priest who was chaplain for the cruise. You were blessed rto have this fine man as a Chaplain. He and I were on the same trip to Medjugorje during Holy Week of 1998.

I am debating whether I will do a review. There have been quite a few reviews of the Amsterdam cruise, so I am not sure if it is worth it at this point in the season. Maybe I will feel differently in a few days. We got home late Friday and reality has struck with the cleaning, cooking, laundry etc. Today was back to the Soup Kitchen, sorting three weekends of donations at our church and now home to catch a breath before meeting some people tonight that we have not seen in over 30 years!!! I will think about it. I did journal each day, so the info is together. It really was a perfect vacation. I can't think of one thing that I would have changed, except perhaps a little more energy for my husband. He was peetering out after some of our tours. I was ready to keep touring, but he got a bit tired some days and wanted to head back to the ship before I was ready. However, all of our priorities were met and I just can't imagine a better cruise/vacation than we had. This was our first real vacation alone since were got married 36 years ago, so it was special in many ways.

We did enjoy the priest on our cruise very much. He gave very thoughtful and meaningful homilies. We are so grateful that Holland America makes it a priority to provide clergy on their cruises. Sure beats trying to find a church in port that has Mass times that work with the port time. I understand HAL is the only cruiseline that does this. Definitely a plus for us!!

[Himself]

I am debating whether I will do a review. There have been quite a few reviews of the Amsterdam cruise, so I am not sure if it is worth it at this point in the season. Maybe I will feel differently in a few days. We got home late Friday and reality has struck with the cleaning, cooking, laundry etc. Today was back to the Soup Kitchen, sorting three weekends of donations at our church and now home to catch a breath before meeting some people tonight that we have not seen in over 30 years!!! I will think about it. I did journal each day, so the info is together. It really was a perfect vacation. I can't think of one thing that I would have changed, except perhaps a little more energy for my husband. He was peetering out after some of our tours. I was ready to keep touring, but he got a bit tired some days and wanted to head back to the ship before I was ready. However, all of our priorities were met and I just can't imagine a better cruise/vacation than we had. This was our first real vacation alone since were got married 36 years ago, so it was special in many ways.

We did enjoy the priest on our cruise very much. He gave very thoughtful and meaningful homilies. We are so grateful that Holland America makes it a priority to provide clergy on their cruises. Sure beats trying to find a church in port that has Mass times that work with the port time. I understand HAL is the only cruiseline that does this. Definitely a plus for us!!

I hope you do give us a little bit of a review. It might help me relive the experience through the eyes of someone else on the cruise at a different time. I am glad Fr. Al Winshman did a good job on the ship. By the way could you see Mt. McKinley from Anchorage the day you were there?

[vbmom87]

I hope you do give us a little bit of a review. It might help me relive the experience through the eyes of someone else on the cruise at a different time. I am glad Fr. Al Winshman did a good job on the ship. By the way could you see Mt. McKinley from Anchorage the day you were there?

I overheard someone say they saw it in the morning. However, we did not. Our bus driver for our PWS tour said if it was out on our way back, he would take us to the lookout, however, when we got on the Anchorage side of the Whittier tunnel the weather went from sunny to cloudy, so no sight of McKinley. We did see her in 2008 in all her glory!!!! It was indeed, and amazing and formidable site. Were you able to see her?

[Himself]

I overheard someone say they saw it in the morning. However, we did not. Our bus driver for our PWS tour said if it was out on our way back, he would take us to the lookout, however, when we got on the Anchorage side of the Whittier tunnel the weather went from sunny to cloudy, so no sight of McKinley. We did see her in 2008 in all her glory!!!! It was indeed, and amazing and formidable site. Were you able to see her?

Yes, I saw it from the Crows Nest and then the tour I went on went to Earthquake park and we could clearly see it from there also. It was a great sight. Sorry you could not see it. That and watching them tie the mooring lines at Homer Spit with all the birds there are two sights from that cruise that are etched in my memory.

[vbmom87]

I hope you do give us a little bit of a review. It might help me relive the experience through the eyes of someone else on the cruise at a different time. I am glad Fr. Al Winshman did a good job on the ship. By the way could you see Mt. McKinley from Anchorage the day you were there?

Although I still haven't put anything together, several people on our roll call have posted wonderful reviews of the cruise and ports. Check it out beginning with post 773:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1313810&page=39

Hopefully these helped you relive your cruise. ;)

[Himself]

Thanks for the link. I enjoyed reading the reviews very much. I am a bit disappointed that next year the ship will head up to Ketchikan on the West Side of Vancouver Island rather than the Inside Passage as she has sailed the past two years. The outside can be rough at times.

[vbmom87]

Thanks for the link. I enjoyed reading the reviews very much. I am a bit disappointed that next year the ship will head up to Ketchikan on the West Side of Vancouver Island rather than the Inside Passage as she has sailed the past two years. The outside can be rough at times.

Yes it can get rough. My husband will attest to that!!!

I just got done loading 2600 photos onto my computer. Now I have to sort through them and do something with them. I will likely make a book using an online company like My Publisher.

Still debating the review. So much is going on right now and when things settle down for me the Alaska cruising season will be over, so not sure how beneficial it will be. However one night I may just feel literate and start writing. ;)

We are going to have a hello and a good bye party for my son and daughter on Labor Day weekend. My son got a job in CA and this will be his good-bye party. My daughter goes to grad school in Delaware and will be heading home to be with the family before her brother leaves. For her it will be a hello party. Her friends and family will have the opportunity to say hello to her as we don't see her often. She had actually bought a plane ticket to come home and had sworn her brothers to secrecy. However, when I saw I could get her a decent ticket with our miles, I asked her to come home. She ended up telling us she had the ticket so I wouldn't keep bugging her. I am so excited to have her home, but sad my son will be so far away. We live in MI. So, that is the focus of my next week and a half.

[vbmom87]

I have posted a few photos on my roll call beginning with post 790.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?p=30328165#post30328165