15th Anniversary Cruise - Millenium

[gfromftlaud]

Anyone else booked on the Atlantis Eastern Caribbean Cruise aboard the Celebrity Millenium sailing March 5th 2006?? We just booked last Friday.

Best Regards,
Gary

[gschuber]

Hi - we booked yesterday. We're a group of 6 from Washington, DC.

[Clay Clayton]

My partner and I (from Key West) and our two best friends from NC are considering this...any idea why it doesnt seem to be selling as well as Atlantis's other cruises. All of us enjoy cruising but have never done an Atlantis. This one works schedule and port-wise, but don't want to do it if it is not going to give us a true sense of an Atlantis cruise.

Anyone have any thoughts on why sales seem slow?

Clay

[CRSNDC]

I wouldn't worry at all. If it works for you all then you should do it. I plan to go but haven't signed up yet. It's still 8 months away and I'm not picky about cabin type.
Also, Atlantis does not update their website daily, or even weekly, so the "sold out" listing can be deceiving.
It should be a great cruise. This past March it was on the Millennium's sister ship the Constellation which I thought was beautiful.

[CruisinMaterial]

I mirror the comments already listed. Atlantis' website does not update frequently enough for it to be an indicator. The Alaska cruise this year looked sparse until the updated the website one time and there were nothing but limited in a few categories left. The January cruise tends to be popular because it leaves just prior to the start of or the first week of the academic semester so if there are younger folks on board, such as myself, it was condusive for our schedules.

I am also looking into this cruise as a return to Atlantis cruising after taking some time off but will not be booking for a while if I do go.
~Jake

[directorcw]

A group of 16 from Chicago is booked on the March 2006 Atlantis cruise. I was disappointed that the cruise only has 3 stops and 2 full days/nights at sea. When we originally booked, early and prior to Atlantis having anything up on their website (they were delayed by well over a month) we didn't have a lot to go on. We were instructed by our travel agent and rep from Atlantis to look at the Celebrity website. The Celebrity site had the March 5th cruise listed and showed the itinerary leaving Ft. Lauderdale and making stops at the current islands, but also showed an initial stop for almost the entire day in San Juan - which would have been great! The Celebrity site never allowed booking of this cruise (site said "TO BE DETERMINED" if you clicked on the PRICES tab). Once Atlantis got their act together, Celebrity took this cruise off their site and the resulting cruise (which we had already booked) did not include San Juan :( . This is the first cruise for a number of us, so I am hoping that it will be fun. -CW

[CRSNDC]

It's gonna be great. And it's three days at sea! San Juan is ok but I'd rather have the day at sea. They are like all day mixers where you can just relax and meet a lot of cute guys.-Chris in DC

[Oslo Dutch]

I am also booked on this cruise. Will be flying in to Miami two days before and am thinking to stay some time in Key West after the cruise.

Can anybody recommend accommodation in Fort Lauderdale and Key West?

Reint
Oslo, Norway

[gfromftlaud]

Reint:

The following link is one of the better sites with Ft. Lauderdale information, listing all the gay and gay friendly accomodations and attractions:

http://www.sunny.org/rainbow/index.cfm

Of the gay guesthouses the following are the best:

Pinneaple Point Guesthouse is in Victoria Park, walking distance to the heart of downtown fort lauderdale with shops, restaurants, nightlife opportunities, and a 5 minute drive to the beach. You can check it out on ther website:
http://www.pineapplepoint.com/

The Grand Resort and Spa is located just steps from the beach and close to all of the beach nightlife, restaurants, and bars etc...just a 5 minute drive to downtown. Their web address is:
http://www.grandresort.net/

The following link will take you to the local gay weekly magazine with info on bars etc...
http://www.hotspotsmagazine.com/

If anyone else as any questions etc... about the ft. laud area don't hesitate to ask. Been living here for over 10 years.

I am glad you all found this thread, I was beginning to wonder if we were the only ones going...it is going to be a killer cruise!

Gary

[Clay Clayton]

Hubby and I stayed last weekend at THE NEW ZEALAND House in FLL. It is NOT on the beach but otherwise was a great place. Cost was very reasonable, accomodations were nice but probably not as grand as Pineapple Point or the Grand at least from the pictures in their ads. It too is in Victoria Park which is very conviennt.

Here in Key West your gay accomodations are much more limited. The nicest and I suspect the most expensive is probably the Island House. It was completely renovated two years ago and is very high end, they have an onsite bar and grill along with the "video room" for which they are infamous. Coral Tree and its sister properties (you get the run of the facilities at all three places) - Oasis & Coconut Grove are also nice as is Equator. All of these are men only. Big Ruby's, Coral Tree and Equator are all of the same caliber IMHO. Alexander's which is across the street from IH offers accomodations for both Men and Women. The rest of the formerly gay guesthouses in KW - Sea Isle, Brass Key/Fleur de Key. Lighthouse Court are now all welcoming or in the case of Sea Isle closed.

If you want to know about non-gay properties or a copy of my "Key West Suggestions" email me at BigNCBear@aol.com and I will mail you a copy.

Clay

[ORDPLATAA]

Well, Dan and I talked this weekend and we decided to go for this one:D ! Calling my TA in the morning to see what is available - looking for a CC cabin (hopefully there are still some aft facing cabins available).

[Clay Clayton]

Mike and I reserved our room today...as did our friends Scott and Robert from NC. It looks like it is filling up!

Clay

[Clay Clayton]

bump

[MILEMRKR63]

3 of us booked today, all from South Jersey.

Looking forward to our first Atlantis cruise.

[gfromftlaud]

glad to see more people jumpin on this cruise.

We are really looking forward to St. Croix, had port stop there in 2001, and had a riot at Boz's Cane Bay Beach Bar.

This is also our first Atlantis cruise.

Gary

[a4drver]

Hey Gary -

Just booked today. Seventh overall cruise, first time with Atlantis & can't wait! Going it solo & any advice/info from experienced Atlantis cruisers would be appreciated. Looking forward to next March!

DJ

[gfromftlaud]

199 days until we cruise.

Although this is our first Atlantis cruise, we are going with a large group of friends that have been on many. They have nothing but great things to say about Atlantis.

If this roll call keeps growing we will have to organize a pre-cruise event at one of the local clubs for the night before to meet and mingle.

Best Regards,
Gary

[MILEMRKR63]

I was lookiing for gay resort recommendations but saw just noticed them on this thread already. Had a blonde moment I guess.

[Clay Clayton]

bump

[gfromftlaud]

Hey everyone,

Greetings from Katrina bound Ft Laud. Liquor and beer is purchased and poised for the potential huricane party. We live on the beachfront and are planning to ride this one out.

At least we wont have to worry about tropical disturbances for our cruise in March. I sure feel sorry for those that had plans for cruises departing tomorrow. Port Everglades is now closed to ship traffic until the storm passes, should be all clear by Saturday.

Have a good weekend. Cheers!

Gary

[CRSNDC]

Hey Gary,

Doubt you'll find this for a few days but hope all is well in Ft Lauderdale. I just saw that Port Everglades had a gust of 92 mph! Thankfully it will be much more tranquill when we sail in March. Just officially booked on the Millennium today. :)

-Chris in DC

[Clay Clayton]

Gary
Last nite when I went to bed, I was hoping FLL would weather the storm and thankful that katrina (the bitch) wasn't heading our way......well now at six oclock on Friday nite, I am regretting my wishful thinking. Even though the storm is now something like 75 miles away we are still having 45-50 mph winds and higher gusts. Hope you don't have much damage.....ours is just more limbs in the pool....so I guess we should be thankful!

Stay dry,
Clay - a key west local

[gfromftlaud]

Weathered the storm in Ft. Laud. Yes, port everglades was measuring gusts at 92 mph. We live in a high-rise on ft. lauderdale beach, 1 mile from the port...the building was a shakin! Trees, light poles, power lines down all over the beach area. Still no power at home, but the office was restored yesterday afternoon...could have a used another day off, but here I am at work....

Clay, are things getting back to normal in the Keys?

188 days til we cruise!

Gary

[Clay Clayton]

Except for piles of branches and palm fronds on the street, all is back to normal in Key West...wish the same could be said of NOLA and the rest of the gulf coast. :-(

[BryBoy]

My partner and I booked this cruise last week while on the Alaska Cruise. We currently have a group of 5 going and hoping to add another couple or two. We are from Dallas and would like to know if anyone else from Dallas is planning on this cruise.

:)

[gfromftlaud]

Welcome to the thread. How was the Alaska cruise????

Clay, glad all is back to normal in kwest.

185 days til we sail....

Gary

[Teddy Bear]

My Partner and I signed up for this cruise coupla months ago. We're Virgins...in that it's our first cruise ever!
:rolleyes:
We're so looking forward to it! We've been reading threads and reviews and trying to prepare for the new experience. We're monogamous, but looking forward to just being ourselves and meeting other cool folks! Thanks for all the good advice posted here. See y'all in March!

[CRSNDC]

Hey Teddy Bear,

You're gonna love the gay cruise experience! I'm sure you've found the other sites but as a reminder be sure to sign up on Atlantis Cruisers dot com. And from there jump to the MSN group as well.

-Chris in DC

[gfromftlaud]

and not the Millennium...


http://www.corporate-ir.net/ireye/ir_site.zhtml?ticker=rcl&script=410&layout=9&item_id=751810

Was looking forward to the Millennium as she would be all refurbished from drydock....

But Infinity is identical to the Millennium from what I can tell.

Welcome to the board Teddybear...always good to have a virgin or two in the mix.....

Gary

[Clay Clayton]

Hmmm, thats pretty ****ty.....I too was looking forward to being on a just refurbished ship......and the worse thing is I guess we wont be the last group so we can't tear it up before we disembark<G>

Teddy, welcome to cruising....suspect you will get hooked like the rest of us...hubby and I are virgins to Atlantis but not cruising......I suspect this is just about the last time I can be a virgin to anything<G>

Clay

[jjtsfca]

I just got off the Infinity Alaska Atlantis cruise a week ago, and I found the Inifinity to be perfectly fine. Alaska was amazing as always by the way - tea dance was even outdoors as we left Ketchikan (only day weather allowed for tea dance on top deck outdoors), and it was fantastic. Miss Richfield 1981 even (literally) dropped in. Usual great passengers, fun new friends, and fine job by Atlantis. If you've never cruised Alaska, it's well worth it. Atlantis will be there again next summer, likely in response to how fast this year's Alaska event sold.

Infinity Highlights: spa, service level and food (out of this world). Great discovery: AquaSpa Cafe. Fun spot: Thalassotherapy salt pool.

The Celebrity M Class regular staterooms are pretty routine (similar to Norwegian, smaller than Holland America), so I'm going with Concierge Class for the 15th Anniversary Cruise next March with a group of Bay Area friends. The Anniv. cruise appears to be selling briskly at this point also.

Justin

Several RSVPs in the 90s
Atlantis Hawaii 2004
Atlantis Alaska 2005
Atlantis 15th 2006

[gfromftlaud]

Justin:

Thanks for the info on Infinity. 179 days til we sail...and only 178 shopping days left...

Have a great day everyone.

Gary

[Clay Clayton]

....

[gschuber]

Hi - my partner and I booked the 15th Anniversary cruise, but we've never been on an Atlantis Cruise before. I have a few questions maybe some of you can answer for us.

1. Do all the Atlanits cruises have a costume/theme party? (Since it's Halloween season, I've seen some awesome costumes and wondered if we should find something now while they're readily available).

2. We were on the Celebrity Constellation on a straight cruise back in May on the Baltic Sea and signed up for the Captain's Club (Celebrity's frequent cruiser club). Can we earn points on this cruise even though it's a charter?

Thanks! George & David in DC.

[Clay Clayton]

GShuber
Regarding your first question, if you will do a search on threads I started, you will find a similar question from me and a lot of folks answers...as I recall, we should expect to hear about theme parties etc before the cruise but probably NOT in time for you to take advantage of any post halloween sales. Of course since we literally have bins of FantasyFest costumes, we will just go find something in the appropirate bin.<G>

As for the Captain's Club - it is my understanding that this cruise wiill count so be sure your TA has your member number.....unfortunately we don't get any of the benefits...I was hoping to avoid the long lines to make reservations for the specialty restaurant by booking ahead, but we can't...oh well

Glad ya'll are coming....this will be our first Atlantis cruise. Started our "get buff before the cruise" regime so hopefuly by March will be up to the Atlantis stanard<G>

Clay

[gfromftlaud]

Welocme to the thread. 4 friends of ours just got back from the Med Cruise on Brilliance of the Seas. They said the theme parties were great, white party, dog tag tea dance etc..

Clay...hope all goes well in Key West with Rita.

Gary

[Clay Clayton]

Thanks Gary, me too
We actually evacuated to your lovely part of the world...ended up in Coral Springs since the only available rooms under 200 bucks closer to FLL were on the beach...which is not where we wanted to be!<G>

Clay

[gfromftlaud]

Hey Clay,

Hope you enjoed your stay in FLL. Any damage to your home in Kwest?

Anyway, Happy Weekend Everyone.

Gary

[Clay Clayton]

Only damage to us in KW was more screwholes in the window trim from the plywood and another load of leaves and palm fronds in the pool....given what the folks on the Gulf Coast are dealing with...no biggie - once again KW turned out lucky!

Clay

[Clay Clayton]

back to the first page

[gfromftlaud]

Another week closer to the cruise.

Gary

[Clay Clayton]

So some of you Atlantis veterans out there...are there any special Atlantis excursions or just the normal ones for each of our port o'calls. I know I want to do the America's cup in St. Marteen....not sure about anywhere else....the hubby isn't much of a sun worshipper so probably won't be beaching it everyday.

Clay

[gfromftlaud]

Clay...here we go again with wicked wilma....so ready for the season to be over with. We sail on Star Princess 11/6 so are hoping all will be calm that week.

Anyway, have a safe weekend. Less than 5 months til we cruise Infinity!

Gary

[BryBoy]

Need to start getting back in shape for the March Atlantis Cruise. Do you ever go on any Atlantis trips?

[CRSNDC]

Hey guys,

I saw the Infinity yesterday... she's looking good. I sadly departed the Radiance of the Seas yesterday morning in San Diego at the end of the Atlantis Mexican Riviera cruise... Infinity was one berth over.
Flying out of SD I met a group of folks who had just spent 14 days on her going out to Hawaii and back. They said they loved her.

-Chris from DC

[Clay Clayton]

G
DId you survive WIlma? Hubby and I were very lucky, power was only out for 48 hours and no real damage to our house. Others here were not as lucky, lots of folks lost their cars and everything in their houses to flooding. Hope ya'll made out ok.

Clay

[gfromftlaud]

Hey Clay, Glad you survived Wilma's Blow!
We survived too. Still waiting for power to be restored at the office, but at least we were restored here at home yesterday(10days without)! Our condo bldg. had some extensive damage(our unit is ok, though)

Leave for a cruise aboard Star Princess this Sunday! Yahoo!!!! Can't wait to leave damaged fort lauderdale for a few days.

Best Regards,

Gary

[CRSNDC]

Hey guys,

4 months till be board the Infinity! :)

-Chris from DC

[Clay Clayton]

So you are going to be on Star AFTER the bears.....let us know if you learn anything inteesting about the previous week!

Have fun,
Clay

[CRSNDC]

Hey guys another week has passed. With the holidays almost upon us it's gonna be 2006 soon!

Anybody else signed up in rommate share category 7 on the Infinity? Wouldn't mind maybe not having to leave my roomate to the Atlantis lottery.

I'm 40, drinker, light smoker (up on deck only), no drugs, unually in bed between 2 and 4 and back up around 10. Not looking for roomate hookup unless it happens that way.

-Chris in DC

[CRSNDC]

Hey guys another week has passed. With the holidays almost upon us it's gonna be 2006 soon!

Anybody else signed up in rommate share category 7 on the Infinity? Wouldn't mind maybe not having to leave my roomate to the Atlantis lottery.

I'm 40, drinker, light smoker (up on deck only), no drugs, unually in bed between 2 and 4 and back up around 10. Not looking for roomate hookup unless it happens that way.

-Chris in DC

[Hypoxic]

Hi guys. Thought I'd sign in here and say hi. I'll be on the Atlantis 15th Anniversary cruise in March.

Never been on a cruise before (unless you consider "haze gray and underway" as a cruise :)) and I'm really looking forward to going to sea on my own terms.

I'm single, semi-retired, and live in Orlando. I look exactly like all of the guys in the Atlantis brochure (yeah, right ;)).

Not sure exactly what to expect on the cruise but figure I'll just try to go with the flow and see what happens. Have booked a Concierge Class ocean view stateroom with Veranda on the Sky Deck (hope this is good).

Any advice for a newbie cruiser would be appreciated - particularly on what to pack (I take it from the pictures I've seen that this is a very casual type cruise).

Thanks!

[LuvCelebrity]

I'm curious to know what it's like to sail with Atlantis on Celebrity. I've been on Celebrity many times either with a gay group such as Pied Piper or by ourselves, but never as a full ship charter. Do they use the same staff? How different is the entertainment? Any of the same shows. Just curious. Let me know and have a good time.

David

[gfromftlaud]

Back from Star Princess and had a fantastic time.

Clay, didn't hear too much about the bear cruise before ours....but you can bet they will still be talking about the four boys from Ft Laud this week!

111 days till we sail!

Gary :)

[CRSNDC]

Hypoxic,

Welcome to the thread. I'm sure you'll have a great time on the cruise. Search Cruise Critic for Atlantis references. There have been many reviews written on here. Especially check out Whalebone's review of the Mexican Riviera cruise last month. And over on CruiseMates dot com, Ian's review.
Also check out Atlantis Cruisers dot com. Be sure to post your picture. And from there jump to the Atlantis Group on MSN.
To answer your question- pack very casual attire.

LuvCelebrity,

To me an Atlantis cruise on a Celebrity ship is a great combination. Some things are same but Atlantis dictates the relaxed feel of the week. There is open seating at dinner and almost no dress code. And they bring in much of there own entertainment. The almost daily big dance parties on the pool deck are wonderful. You should definity try it. I'm really looking forward to the Infinity in March.

-Chris in DC

[gfromftlaud]

almost to the double digits bois!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving! have a great weekend!

Best Regards,
Gary

[CRSNDC]

Hey Gary,

Thanks and Happy Thanksgiving to you as well.

Time is moving so fast. I just bought my plane ticket today on Spirit Airlines. Will be into Ft Lauderdale two days early on Friday evening 3/3.

-Chris in DC

[rrustman]

Well I am very excited to go on another Atlantis Cruise. I hope that this cruise will be just as much fun as the last one. I learned a lot about myself and met some really cool people!! YEA. Let me know if your in the Chicago or St. Louis area!

-Robert

[Clay Clayton]

For those of you arriving ahead of time for the cruise and are looking for activities other than laying on the beach or checking out the other amenities that FLL offers, the big King Tut exhibit will be open the weekend before and after our cruise. Tickets are available throught ticketmaster. We already have ours for 1pm on Saturday....figure we ought to get a little "kulture" amongst our menz!

Clay

[kevyfresh]

I am very excited to be going on my second Atlantis cruise. I went on the Mexican Riviera cruise in October 2004 with my partner of 6 years and my brother (who went with his partner). I am hoping the 15th Anniversary cruise will be the best Atlantis cruise ever. I wonder what the entertainment will be. They better pull out all the stops on this one!

Kevin

Traveled on about 7 "Straight Cruises" until I discovered Atlantis

10/04 - Mexican Riviera RCCL Radiance of The Seas

Upcoming Atlantis cruises
03/2006 - Eastern Caribbean - Celebrity Infinity

[gfromftlaud]

88 Days!

I echo Clay's sentiment about the King Tut exhibit. Ft lauderdale is all a buzz with excitement.

If anyone is interested http://www.moafl.org/home.htm Probably a good idea to get your tickets in advance. We already have tickets for Feb.

Have a great day everyone....

Gary

[gfromftlaud]

Happy Holidays Everyone!

76 Days....

Gary

[Clay Clayton]

Thanks for the reminder G! Unfortunately Mike had a car wreck, fractured his wrist and had to have surgery...so we haven't yet started our diet and workout program so that they will let us old fat ugly men on the boat! I guess we will just have to hope they will let us on if we promise to stay in our rooms all the time<grin>

Happy Holidays to all!

Clay

[Clay Clayton]

Two Things
1. Have a friend who is interested in going on this cruise, anyone know of anybody who bought a whole room and is looking for a roomate?

2. Lots of discussion on the Celebrity board about the declining state of Celebrity in general and Infinity in particular - service and food on Celebrity and wear and tear on Infinity prior to the damned refurbishing. Nothing we can do about it, but it does sorta piss me off. We were on Summit three years ago and it was beautiful, hate to think that Infinity is gonna be a dump!


Clay

[BryBoy]

Clay,

I was just on the Infinity in August for the Atlantis Alaska Cruise. I did not feel that it was in major need of refurbishing (I should know, I used to work on Carnival Cruise Lines). I can see where she needs some updating, but nothing that made me think the ship was a hunk of junk or anything the sort.

Hope this changes your thought on the ship.

Bryan.

[Clay Clayton]

Thanks Bryan! I am not overly worried about it...just had been excited when I thought we were going to be on the just redone Millie...and then after reading some downer posts on Infinity and X.....but hell...any day on a cruise ship is better than any day at work right?

Happy New Year!
Clay

[gschuber]

Is it just me or were we originally scheduled to leave at 10 PM? I just looked at the Atlantis web-site and it now says 4:30. Of course, I'm happy to have more time onboard, and am also glad I booked my flight to Ft. Lauderdale for Sat, instead of Sunday! George.

[CRSNDC]

Happy 2006 Guys!

Only nine more weeks till our turn for the Atlantis experience. I'm really excited to see what Rich has arranged for the Anniversay. And after being on the Constellation last year I can't wait to see the Infinity.

gschuber- Yes, you are correct, the schedule has changed. And I bet it will again before we set sail. It's totally up to cruise line based on a myriad of factors. I'm getting to Ft Lauderdale on Friday evening.

-Chris in DC

[Clay Clayton]

Is it just me or were we originally scheduled to leave at 10 PM? I just looked at the Atlantis web-site and it now says 4:30. Of course, I'm happy to have more time onboard, and am also glad I booked my flight to Ft. Lauderdale for Sat, instead of Sunday! George.

I just checked www.atlantisevents.com and it is still showing 10PM departure...where did you see it different?

Happy New Year Everybody!
Clay

[gschuber]

Looks like it changed again! It did say 4:30 for a couple of days - I showed it to the others in our group over the weekend. Thanks. George.

[Clay Clayton]

Shucks..I was excited about the earlier departure! Wonder how early we can board? It would be great if the usual noon time boarding holds!

Clay

[rrustman]

I think you maybe able to board the ship at like 2pm.
-Robert

[gfromftlaud]

I too hope that we can board early afternoon even though we have a 10pm departure.

I believe the 10pm departure is to allow for Winter Party festivities in Miami taking place Sunday afternoon. Anyway, our plan is to board as soon as possible...and get started with Vacation!

This is my first day back to work after the Holidays...and I am so over it!

Clay: Sorry to hear about Mike's accident and broken wrist...hopefully he will back to normal for the cruise. I too am going to be missing my workout schedule for a few weeks...Have a business trip to Asia starting on the 14th and will not retuen until Feb. 10. Am going to have to train double time when I get back...ugh!

Anyway...60 Days!

Gary

[Clay Clayton]

Normal......lets hope not<grin> that would make life boring!

Have a good trip to Asia, osunds like a long one. You will be ready to vacation!

Clay

[rrustman]

Happy New year to everyone and Good luck in Asia. Be ready to party it up when you get back!!
-Robert

[BryBoy]

:D
Happy New Year to all. A friend told me that they left late on a previous cruise and that they allowed everyone to board at the normal time (1 pm).

I believe that they are trying to allow for everyone to attend that Winter Party, but word on the street is that not many are planning on attending it. Most people that I have talked with say that they are planning on boarding the ship early.

Less than 2 months till we cruise.

Bryan

[directorcw]

First time cruiser and noting that the Atlantis cruise is much more informal, I wanted to ask about attire in the upscale restaurant. Still very casual there or would khakis and button-down shirt be more approriate / required? Thanks guys - can't wait for this vacation / cruise. -CW

[BryBoy]

That should be fine. As long as you are not wearing jeans it is good. They ask that you dress for dinner in the specialty dinning, but I have seen a few people wearing jeans (they later said they felt way too casual).

If you are concerned you can call Atlantis and they can give you a better idea of what to expect.

Enjoy the cruise.

[rrustman]

Why Can't the cruise come sooner?? Lord It needs to be here!! So what is everyone plannin on??? Let me know!!
-Robert

[directorcw]

Being a first time cruiser and having read a lot of the threads here has been really helpful. Though still a little unsure of "costsumes" our group should bring. It's my understanding that there will be at least a "white party" - which is pretty straight forward (no pun intended) and some sort of military-themed party, right? Anybody have any more info based on experience - or maybe some insight as to what Atlantis is planning for their 15th anniversary. Maybe I'm hoping for too much, but I would think they'd pull out the stops for this anniversary cruise. Any idea on the entertainers for this cruise . . . other than our fellow passengers, which I'm sure will provide hours of entertainment <EG>.

[CRSNDC]

Based on past experience there should be Dog Tag, Mardi Gras, Tropical Heat, Classic Disco, Beach Ball, and the grandaddy of them all, the White Party. And maybe an 80's party.

Dog Tag is the one where the costumes run military/police. And where everyone gets there Atlantis dog tag for the trip. It's also where colored stickers are put on the dog tags... green, yellow, or red... based on your availability. It is early in the trip so you can scope out the single guys or frisky couples ;-)

-Chris in DC

[rrustman]

Here is all the information about the T-Dance!!


DOG TAG TEA DANCE

Aloha all,
This one is for the seasoned cruisers who have always been confused about what dog tag colors to wear. I should also be informative for those new cruisers who do not know what the Dog Tag Tea Dance is. For the new guys, this is the first big party usually held on the first full day of the cruise from about 4-7 depending on the cruise. We are all given an Atlantis dog tag and chain that has embossed on it the name of the cruise and the year. It is a great souvenir and you will see lots of veteran cruisers wearing a chain with several tags (one for each cruise).

This party is always fun because it is amazing how people will surprise you with their color choices. Many definitely single guys with Red and Many couples with green.

Another part of this party is the colored stickers. Unfortunately they ONLY have 3 colors which 'officially' mean:

Available
Buy me a drink and lets talk
Not Available

Lets come up with some ideas of what combinations we could use to convey more information. I have always considered 3 greens to mean 'Desperate - Will consider any and all offers". I have seen guys with one of each color. What does that one mean?

Suggested Codes and combos. (Note: There is NO WAY Atlantis is going to bring more than these colors so don't even ask). Any single color just needs to be by itself. Use multiple stickers to emphasize it. (PS: No codes on purpose to signify NO COUPLES. You will just have to politely tell them NO. I think red can easily be used to show either you are married or not willing to be married.



Single and EASY - names not required. ONE for just single. The more green dots the more intense.


OR
Single and NOT That easy. Lets get to know each other a bit.


OR None at all or just with my husband.

OR
Unavailable for marriage but can be playful.


OR

Married but playful.

Someone pointed out to me that many playful married couples OVERLAP two stickers to show they are a couple. I would assume that green is a little friskier than the yellow. I had seen this done but never figured it out.


We see this a lot. What does it mean?
Of course you can have NO DOTS AT All to keep up the mystery!


So, what ideas do you all have? Please try to make combos that are not too hard to remember.

I hope I did not scare any cruise virgins with this one.

[rrustman]

Guys and Gals....

Don't forget about Atlantis Cruisers to sign up for the cruise and meet other people!!

http://www.atlantiscruisers.com
:p

[Clay Clayton]

So back to this costume thing.

Do folks wear real costumes to any of the parties or is it just circuit/leather type of outfits? Having been a FantasyFest participant for close to 20 years, we have bins of costumes from belly dancers to Cleopatras to the Androgenous Rockets to the tallest and biggest (and best0 Carmen Mirandas you have ever seen.....is this the sort of thing folks wear or should we should bring our chaps and vest?

Clay

[CRSNDC]

Bring your chaps and vest but you'll see more of the actual theme costumes. It all depends on how much you want to carry. Among others, there will be disco divas, **** daddies, carmen mirandas, stewardess, bad Cher's, and of course, the village people. It really is a hoot. At the late night parties guys will often ditch the costumes after an hour or two however.

-Chris in DC

p.s. and remember to bring door decorations

[Clay Clayton]

Thanks! I guess we will plan on bringing a bin full o'costumes! Not sure about the door decorations....have to think on that one for a while. Any other suggestions of things we need to bring/figure out for an Atlantis cruise that we wouldn't need for a mainline cruise?

Clay

[hobbycruiser]

Hey Oslo,
In Fort L I recommend the Elysium HotelIt is on the internet. About 40 rooms great hot tub , two pools,etc.
Fred

[gfromftlaud]

The cruise is fast approaching! I am so ready.

Hope everyone had a great weekend.

Gary

[BryBoy]

We can hardly wait. I have already put together our door decorations and we have started working on our White Party attire.

Hope everyone is doing well and look forward to meeting some of you on board. We are in cabin 7002.

Bryan & Scott

[CRSNDC]

4 Weeks!!!! With the Olympics coming up February is gonna pass so fast.

-Chris in DC

[rrustman]

I am already PUMPED....

What is everyone doing the night before the cruise departs??

I think my friend Ed and I are going to the Collesium!

What are you all doing??

[Clay Clayton]

RRustman, sounds like you will be having more fun than me! One of my coworkers is getting married so we get to go to his wedding in Miami Beach.

Can some of you experienced Atlantis cruisers give me an idea on shore excursions? Are there any special altantis ones or should I just look at the celebrity website or the boards on here to see what is going to be available?

Clay

[directorcw]

Has anybody gotten there Celebrity number from Atlantis or their travel agent yet. Don't you need that number to book excursions?

[CRSNDC]

Atlantis sends out the pertinent info about 2 weeks before the cruise. Usually there are no special Atlantis shore excursions, just the ones from the cruise line.

I'm not sure there will be much to decide in advance except for St Maarten. Coco Cay is a private island where I think you pick things to do once there and St Criox is not a usual stop so Celebrity doesn't list any shore excursion. St Maarten is beautiful with abundant options.

-Chris in DC

[directorcw]

Since first time cruiser don't know much about the logistics of the cruise - what's the address of the Ft. Lauderdale (Port Everglades???) pier from where the ship sets sail? Does anybody know if there are rental car return lots right by the pier so as to avoid returning a car to one location and then having to have a limo pick us up and drop us off at the pier? Going down to Ft. Lauderdale a few days earlier so we probably need to have a car to get around - as I understand it things are pread out a bit. Thanks. -CW

[Clay Clayton]

Director
You might want to check out the FLL port info here on CC. It suggests that you return your car to the airport and take a cab. Apparently there are not any rental car places at the port.

Clay

[Hypoxic]

I received my Celebrity number yesterday in an email from Atlantis and was able to download their Cruise Vacation Guide from the website. That has a lot of good info in it. I was also able to download my Celebrity XPRESS Pass (took a while to get into the Celebrity check in site, but Atlantis warned it might be busy the first coulple of days).

Anyway, I think I'm set. I'm tentatively planning to go down to Ft. Lauderdale on the 4th and spend a night at the Bamboo Resort - I started late and it was the only place I could find.

I'm really looking forward to it even if I am a little nervous (never been around so many gay men before :p) but pretty sure I'll love it. So sure, I guess, that I'm already reserved on the Mexican Riviera Cruise (San Diego to Acapulco) in October.

See you all in a little more than a couple of weeks!

Kevin

[gschuber]

I received my guide too - did you check out the entertainment? Charo! I've always wanted to see her live.

[rrustman]

Well lets see...I got my reservation number and was about to everything but register which is ok. So onwards we go. My friend Ed and I are staying at the Westin in Ft. Lauderdale on the 4th. SOOO EXCITED. We are going to be going to the pre-cruise party at the Collesium...can't wait. I also rented an SUV on the 4th so that it would be easier to get around as EVERYTHING in Ft. Lauderdale is so spread apart. I can't wait to meet all you men!!

[Clay Clayton]

This was my first time checking in since X started letting you do it online. While it wasn't a breeze it wasn't awful either. So we are all done and have our boarding passess printed out. Now the long wait!

We went ahead and signed up for the 12 meter race excursion in St. Marten...anyone else find it strange that they are only offering one of these since we are there all day and most of the nite?

Clay

[gfromftlaud]

Ok...did the online boarding info today. I guess I better start thinking about getting ready to actually pack.....

Anyone have any thoughts on who the special guest staer may be? I am hopoing it is not a 1980's has-been / "one hit wonder". Charo is an amazing flamenco guitarist as well as an intriguing character, so should be fun.

Anyway, Happy Tuesday everyone!

Gary

[CRSNDC]

I'm all checked in as well. Question about the special guest... who is Walt Nacke? What am I missing? The clue means nothing to me.

Charo is fabulous! She was on the Mexican Riviera cruise with us last October and blew the ship away with her performance. She signed autographs for 3 hours the next day. I can't believe I'm gonna get to see her again.

-Chris in DC

[MightyMike]

I'm all checked in as well. Question about the special guest... who is Walt Nacke? What am I missing? The clue means nothing to me.
I figured it out!

[gfromftlaud]

Share please....no clue here!

Happy Hump Day,

Gary

[MightyMike]

Share please....no clue here!
Are you kidding? I'm going to milk this one for free booze! The solution to the riddle about the surprise guest star will be available to anyone that buys me one Mojito Martini before dinner at the Martini Bar on the first night of the cruise. :D

[gfromftlaud]

LOL....

Ok, 1 Mojito!

Best Regards,
Gary

[BryBoy]

Okay, I will buy you a Mojito if you give me a better clue than Walt Nacke. What are we missing here on the clue??

[aaerobear]

I also hear there is going to be a "crack" security team from Chicago onboard your cruise.

[MightyMike]

Okay, I will buy you a Mojito if you give me a better clue than Walt Nacke. What are we missing here on the clue??
I'm afraid to give out a clue for fear of losing mojitos! I'll give out the name first, then you guys can decide if it's worth a mojito. :cool:

11 more days. Woo-hoo!

[rrustman]

What is the clue????????????

[BryBoy]

wouldn't you just love it if it was Bette Midler! But this clue is doing nothing for me!!! If someone has a better clue or can give a hint as to who it is. I can buy you a drink or something...

[MightyMike]

It is a woman with a somewhat large gay following, but not Bette.

[gfromftlaud]

1. Walt Nacke......
2. Large gay following.....yet not Bette
3. A "crack" security team from Chicago....Is that supposed to be a clue???


Okay then.... it's a crack wh$#e from Chicago with a large gay following with a nack for being in Walt disney movies..ummm....

No, No....it is Colonel Mustard in the library with the candlestick! Oh wait.....wrong "clue"

crap...guess I better just get back to work....

Happy Thursday,
Gary

[directorcw]

I think the "star" is Ms. D-List herself - Kathy Griffin. If true . . . this would be great. Loved her reality show and specials on cable. Hope she has her "best gays" with her. -CW

[directorcw]

And aerrobear - don't spill the beans about our contingent from Chicago!!! The element of surprise is very important to us. Our motto has always been: "If it is worth doing . . . it's worth over doing"

[gfromftlaud]

Also loved her Reality series....

um....any other ideas?

9 days, 22 hours, 28 minutes, and 30 seconds til we board....

[aaerobear]

I never spill beans, remember what I did for a living!!!!!

[CRSNDC]

OMG, one week to go! I can't wait. Time to get the steamer trunk out. :)

-Chris in DC

[gschuber]

Walt Nacke is an anagram for....

"Can We Talk?"

Now do you know who it is?

You can buy me a drink!

George in DC.

[MightyMike]

Awwww! There go my mojitos!!!

[directorcw]

Ugggggghhhhh - If in fact it's tired ole Joan Rivers . . the Atlantis "Big Star Surprise" is a big bust - and I don't mean Joan's implants ! ! ! She's tired and a has been. Bring on the funny "new" celebs like Kathy Griffin or Margaret Cho, if in fact it is a comedy routine. What about a great musical star?

[gfromftlaud]

I remember staying up "late" to watch her when she filled in for Johnny Carson in the early 80's....I was only about 12 or 13 but thought she was hilariously campy.

Anyway, received Celebrity documents in the mail today from Atlantis. Another hour closer!

Can't wait to board and get a cocktail in hand....

Gary

[rrustman]

See everyone in Ft. Lauderdale. Have a safe flight or drive!!

[kevyfresh]

I am actually looking forward to seeing Joan. I say Margaret about two years ago on the Mexican Riviera cruise, so it will be terrific to see someone different.

[njreo]

If Joan Rivers has one more lift .. she'll have a full goatee and mustache!

I listened to her radio show from NY a few years ago and she's became very right wing .. with lots of homophobic comments.

Can't stand her!

[gfromftlaud]

Ok...I am so excited I could just burst!

To all of you traveling to Ft Laud have a safe hassle free flight/drive.

Our weather forecast calls for a gorgeous weekend, so be ready for fun in the sun!

Thanks to all who have kept this thread going.

Gary

[CRSNDC]

I know I'm not gonna sleep tonight. Gotta finish packing and give myself a hair cut. I arrive in Ft Lauderale at 6:30 Friday evening! See you on the beach Saturday, or at the Coliseum, or on the ship.

-Chris in DC, Infinity cabin 2150

[Clay Clayton]

All packed! Off to FLL tomorrow, Tut on Saturday and then can't wait to get onboard. See you soon,
Clay
Cabin 3075

[directorcw]

Off to Ft. Lauderdale this morning from Chicago . . . can't wait to get this vacation started! Looking forward to that welcoming champagne and then lots of mojitos (newly discovered - yuuuummm) and sun. There are 16 in our group from Chicago going on this cruise, but want to meet lots of new friends. See you all on board. Cabin 9129.

PS If it is Joan Rivers . . .I hope the staff of Celebrity is able to put a card table outside the theatre doors for Melissa to sell her mom's bedazzled eggs and wathes (last catty comment . . .at least on this thread).:rolleyes:

[rrustman]

See you all on board soon!!
-Robert

[gfromftlaud]

Limo arrives in another hour....champagne in hand...

Finally!

G

[rykersdad]

you could check out and be part of starting a great thread on vacationloungedotcom. if you want a fresh area to post messages. the boards seem to be lacking in this area

[gfromftlaud]

How was everyone's vacay??

We had a BLAST! booked the Freedom cruise 1/28/07....319 Days. We have decided only Atlantis cruises from now on.

Entertainment was great, Atlantis staff was amazing, and Inifnity was a great ship.

I am completely exhausted though. Never slept more than 2 hours a night, and never slept at all the night of the white party....I sure could use a vacation!

Any thoughts from anyone else?

Gary

[CRSNDC]

Hey Gary, What a blast the whole week was. It was my third Atlantis cruise and quite possibly the best. Loved Charo and Joan. Cruise Director Damian and Captain Dimitri were dreamy. :) And Shann Carr and Miss Richfield and Dixie Longate and Flava and Matt Yee and Marty Thomas and all the Atlantis boys. The white party was off the hook. And the rainstorm during the Tropical party was wild!
I have no idea if we met last week or not. I must have talked to 250 guys. Hope we did. And I will see you on the Freedom in January.

-Chris in DC

[directorcw]

It was my first cruise and what an indoctrination!!!! Had a great time. The Celebrity Infinity staff/crew could not have been any nicer or more accomodating. The Captain's decision to allow staff to party with the bois was very generous of him and staff showed their appreciation to cruisers. Atlantis staff were also fantastic. Malcolm did a great job. A special kudos goes to Infinity Cruise Director Damian - what a dreamboat - was a really good sport with all the hooting and hollering. He accepted his status as a "bear" graciously by posing with his shirt off with the bear statue at the pool much to the delight of all those present. :rolleyes: Can't decide what cruise to book next . . . tempted to do the one to the Caribbean again in one's year's time, but don't know. Been thinking of Hawaii, but have not heard good things about the ship's staff (all American) that are young and full of attitude giving bad service. Heard from a co-worker this line from a wiatress after asking 3 times for an iced tea - "I said I would get it for you - didn't I? - would never have heard that from a Celebrity Infinity staffer. Any advice boys?

[MightyMike]

Had a great time as well!

One thing that I did notice (which did not detract from the cruise experience at all) was how the Infinity is overdue for dry dock. It needs new carpet, paint and varnish. We gave it more than our share of wear and tear that week!

[jjtsfca]

Can't decide what cruise to book next . . . tempted to do the one to the Caribbean again in one's year's time, but don't know. Been thinking of Hawaii, but have not heard good things about the ship's staff (all American) that are young and full of attitude giving bad service. Heard from a co-worker this line from a wiatress after asking 3 times for an iced tea - "I said I would get it for you - didn't I? - would never have heard that from a Celebrity Infinity staffer. Any advice boys?

dircw - glad you had a great time. If you saw any guys in cowboy hats from San Francisco, that was probably my posse.

Anyway - Rich Campbell (he runs Atlantis) specifically addressed the customer service concerns about NCL's US flagged ships in the Ask Atlantis session on our cruise. He is in touch with NCL and they are very aware of it. The Atlantis charter for Hawaii 2007 is a brand new ship and will have a new staff (I am told) trained at NCL's new boot camp in Maryland. NCL is working hard to shake out their employee training and quality problems from everything I can tell. For me, Hawaii leaves the Caribbean in the dust. They are beautiful, varied islands and a great culture to experience. I don't think you would regret it.