Favorite cruise moment

[Freedom55]

I know they are all good but what is the best of the best?

[sapper1]

I know they are all good but what is the best of the best?
Finally a screen name that is self-explanatory-----for a Canuck at least!!!!
My favourite cruise moment is sitting down to that first elegant dinner that I don't have to cook!! A close second is exploring the ship for the first time.

[Freedom55]

Finally a screen name that is self-explanatory-----for a Canuck at least!!!!
My favourite cruise moment is sitting down to that first elegant dinner that I don't have to cook!! A close second is exploring the ship for the first time.
LOL - glad I am self-explanatory! (what did I explain?)

[osiebosie]

Well, I chose anticipation because it leads into the next one listed. Which leads into the next one listed. And so on and so on. It's really hard to just choose one.

Shay

[WeLoveCruising]

My favorite moment....the first morning at sea, waking up rested, seeing the early morning sun on the ocean, smelling the sea air....a quiet walk with DH around the teak promenade deck

[Druke I]

For me, it is sailaway, particularly if leaving from a finger pier, like Pier 35 in San Francisco.

Three blasts from the whistle (horn) as the ship slips her lines, and backs into the channel.

Brings a tear to my eye and a lump to my throat every time!

[jhannah]

Brings a tear to my eye and a lump to my throat every time! Maybe it's that anchovy, garlic, and jalapeno sandwich you made up in the Lido as a sailaway snack! :D

I think crossing the gangway is primo for me. Now I'm THERE!

[waiting2retire]

For me, it has to be seeing the ship for the first time. In Fort Lauderdale, driving along the pier in a taxi, looking at all the huge ships lined up and trying to identify the Coral Princess, waiting for me to board for my very first cruise experience :) . In San Diego, walking out the front door of the Holiday Inn at 6:30 a.m. and seeing the Zaandam all lit up, waiting for me to board :) . In New York, turning the corner in the taxi and seeing the Noordam in all her glory, just waiting for me to board :).

The only comparable moment for me is the first time on each cruise when I hear the chimes of the announcement bells :D . Loved hearing the "When you wish upon a star" chimes from a nearby Disney ship in the harbour in St. Thomas!

Bonnie

[RevNeal]

As much as I enjoy walking across the gangway and boarding the ship, it has to come a close second to the following:

Sea days, walking the Promenade deck and standing out on a forward observation deck, enjoying the view. God's glorious creation is a wonder to behold.

[sapper1]

LOL - glad I am self-explanatory! (what did I explain?)
I thought the name was derived from the commercial offered by a well known Canadian Financial institution that touted their "Feedom 55" programme as a route to retiring at age 55 with the freedom to do as one wishes. We often hear people joking about aspiring to "Freedom 75" or "85".----so I thought you were aspiring to "55". Now you have me curious----What does the name mean?

[ger_77]

My favorite is crossing the gangway, boarding the ship and hearing the "ding-ding" as my card is swiped. I turn to the security agent handing my card back, smile brightly and say "Hi Honey, I'm home!" That generally brings a smile to most of them - though not all.

Smooth Sailing! :) :) :)

[lavigne101]

Walking across the gangway on our first Disney crusie with the girls. Watching their eyes light up...priceless. :D

[NoNoNanette]

With me, it's entering our cabin the first time, and sitting on the balcony with a glass of wine and a smoke! :)

[Lynne Myrna]

Up in the Crow's Nest, sipping our frozen drinks at sail away, watching the N.Y. skyline get smaller & smaller, while passing the Statue of Liberty & going under the Verrizzano Bridge:):):) that to us is pure bliss:)

[Freedom55]

I thought the name was derived from the commercial offered by a well known Canadian Financial institution that touted their "Feedom 55" programme as a route to retiring at age 55 with the freedom to do as one wishes. We often hear people joking about aspiring to "Freedom 75" or "85".----so I thought you were aspiring to "55". Now you have me curious----What does the name mean?

I work for Freedom 55 Financial. I am 53, and not quite "free" LOL

[sapper1]

I work for Freedom 55 Financial. I am 53, and not quite "free" LOL
Aha!!!! I guess I wasn't too far off base. I see you have two more years to go. Thanks for the explanation!

[booklady26]

Definitely stepping from the gangway onto the ship's deck. It's like stepping into a fantasy world where I can put everything aside for a few days (or more) and recharge the batteries.

The second best thing is my early morning walk around the promenade deck. I do it for excerise, but the view is spectacular.

[SandRaven]

All of the above!

[barbon2]

Every moment on the ship is my favorite.
Barbara

[LAFFNVEGAS]

I had to vote for Crossing the Gangway and hearing the first "beep" of your card being scanned:D, all the antispation and seeing the ship for the first time is right up there as well.

But now along with the Best of hearing that "Beep" of your card beeing scanned the saddest moment is hearing it scanned your final time as you disembark:(

[DFD1]

They are all wonderful, but for me sail-away is special. Whether it is the beginning of the cruise or each port along the way.

[mamaofami]

For me, it's not just one thing. First, it's all the anticipation that makes me so excited. Then, it's pulling up to the pier and crossing that gangway. Then, I know I'm home. Next comes sail away as I lean over and watch the ship being untied and know we're on our way.

From then on, it's watching the ocean, breathing in the fresh air, feeling the freedom, and knowing that the ship will be my home for a while. I could care less about the ports, the shows, the entertainment, etc. Just put me on the ship in the middle of the ocean. And let that ship's horn sound!

[drtee]

I have this hard knot in my left shoulder that gets worse as stress increases. I always, always have it, and have had it for 40 years, so I call it the "perma-knot"--drugs, massage, acupuncture--nothing can get it out.

At some point on my cruise, when I am usually just sitting on the deck staring at the water, I realize that the knot is gone. It will be back, but for a few blissful days I am pain free.

[NoNoNanette]

I have this hard knot in my left shoulder that gets worse as stress increases. I always, always have it, and have had it for 40 years, so I call it the "perma-knot"--drugs, massage, acupuncture--nothing can get it out.

At some point on my cruise, when I am usually just sitting on the deck staring at the water, I realize that the knot is gone. It will be back, but for a few blissful days I am pain free.

What a neat story! :) That made me smile!

I notice that my arthritis is non-existant, as is fibro myalgia during ANY vacation. Thus, I travel extensively! ;)

(Seriously, though.... it makes one question modern diagnoses and medications.... heck.... I'll just keep on vacationing!) :)

[Freedom55]

I have this hard knot in my left shoulder that gets worse as stress increases. I always, always have it, and have had it for 40 years, so I call it the "perma-knot"--drugs, massage, acupuncture--nothing can get it out.

At some point on my cruise, when I am usually just sitting on the deck staring at the water, I realize that the knot is gone. It will be back, but for a few blissful days I am pain free.

Can you say "Permanent Cruising" ? LOL

[drtee]

Can you say "Permanent Cruising" ? LOL

Maybe I can get a doctor's note!

[twinkletoes4445]

I voted for seeing the ship for the first time. We've only been on two cruises, and both times my tummy did a little "flip" when I saw the ship for the first time.

[Davey Interweb]

Playing drunken tennis (or some semblance thereof, and while wearing formal wear) at 3 or 4 in the morning on our Constellation Transatlantic sailing.

[bobpatj]

I love everything about cruising so could say, "all of the above," but seeing the ship for the first time gets me very excited because I know we're really on our way.

[hogwildcruzers]

My DW always loves the moment we cross the gangway and enter the ship...she always says " can you believe we are on the ship?". and I always say back " we sure are, ain't it great".

[LoveMyBoxer]

Don't know if anyone else stated it, but ALL OF THE ABOVE and more!

[Pam in CA]

Excellent poll. To me, it's walking across the gangway and onto the ship. Somehow, it's not "real" until I set foot on the ship. I'm excited beforehand and rarely get a good night's sleep due to excitement. But stepping onboard is my favorite moment and the culmination of everything I've been waiting for. Let the cruise begin!

[MissPoovey]

I voted other, because my favorite part was the rough seas we had in the carribean and watching the pool splash over the sides from the sky bar. I guess I am stranger than most people, cuz I really liked the bouncing and watching people (including me and our group) try to walk while the ship was bouncing everywhere, lol.
It kinda felt like buy one beer get 3 free with the motion of the ship creating a "drunkin' sailor" effect, lol
;)

[Freedom55]

Over 120 votes and exactly NOBODY voted for the entertainment and only 3 people voted for the dining room. Very interesting!

[RetiredMustang]

I chose "other". Perhaps Greg (revneal) captured some of what I find the best: the first morning, early, before dawn, when DW and I go out on deck, or if we have splurged, onto our balcony and watch the sunrise. I smell the Ocean, lifebringer, and see the sky lighten and sip coffee and commune with my very most significant other, so significant that others pale to the backgound. We marvel at the world and its wonders, and watch the water change from gray to sapphire, and the sun break on limitless horizon, and are glad of heart. It is addictive, and I want to do it tomorrow!

Dave

[Seago2]

All of it- everything posted and more. But I chose "seeing the ship for the first time," because no matter how stressed I am at that moment I am just in awe.

[cruznon]

All the moments mentioned are special, but stepping onto the ship, is the wonderful moment for me. All the planning and anticipation is now real and I feel so fortunate to be cruising again!

[chasetf]

Walking across the gangway and into the ship - Because I know the whole cruise is just ahead of us. :D ;)

[calisota]

Finishing work and going to sleep. :o

But I guess I have a different perspective. :D

Greg

[rebeljohn]

Sailaway..........The ship's horn blows, and I know I have a week of fun and relaxation...........

[Freedom55]

I guess that gangway moment wins!!!!

[Krazy Kruizers]

Definitely walking across the gangway and getting on the ship..

[P0077mhg]

The formal nights: people dressed up, smiling, the smell of perfume, the beautiful surrondings, the sea outside - like in a movie, but this is real: it´s your real life!

[Wineguys]

Walking across the gangway - just not saying which direction :p

[ILoveScotland]

I voted "other" because the best moment for me is standing at the rail on deck (or balcony) and feeling the sea breeze and looking out to the horizon and seeing nothing but water. I think that's what heaven might be like for me.

[Palms2Pines2Sea]

Best single cruise moment - and the most cathartic one too - is casting off the lines and being completely at sea. No longer tethered to land. Free at last.

[Freedom55]

I voted "other" because the best moment for me is standing at the rail on deck (or balcony) and feeling the sea breeze and looking out to the horizon and seeing nothing but water. I think that's what heaven might be like for me.

Good one! I agree

[AlohaPride]

Up in the Crow's Nest, sipping our frozen drinks at sail away, watching the N.Y. skyline get smaller & smaller, while passing the Statue of Liberty & going under the Verrizzano Bridge:):):) that to us is pure bliss:)

Cruising with friends is one of my favorite moments. ;)

[Freedom55]

Only one person chose the entertainment. Is that a refection of poor quality or is it just farther down the priorites list?

[mr green]

Only one person chose the entertainment. Is that a refection of poor quality or is it just farther down the priorites list?

Entertainment is also a 'land activity', once in the theater a person could be an land, or at sea.

john

[mr green]

A strange 'Favorite'. At the airport terminal, locating baggage, AND the rep. from the cruise line. Now THATS security!

john

[ore-ee-gun]

For me, the biggest thing is seeing the ship for the first time. That's where it becomes real. The next is stepping onboard the ship - This may sound odd, but I love how it smells!

[Freedom55]

How about doing the "Doc Dance!!!!"

[cruz4evr]

It's very hard for me to choose between walking across the gangway and the anticipation of the cruise. I will never forget on my first cruise how exciting it was to walk aboard the ship, so I believe that is my choice. :)
That memory will always be with me and the great excitement it brought!

[Host Walt]

It's very hard for me to choose between walking across the gangway and the anticipation of the cruise. I will never forget on my first cruise how exciting it was to walk aboard the ship, so I believe that is my choice. :)
That memory will always be with me and the great excitement it brought!Ours as well.

When we look out our window in our Ft. Lauderdale hotel and see our ship waiting for us, what a feeling. But as cruz4evr said, after checking in and leaving the omnipresent photographer and taking the wonderful walk up the gangway to see the absolutely gorgeous flower arrangement and vase complementing the absolutely gorgeous entry foyer. Then the staff waiting in militarily precise uniforms and white gloves...WOW! Pure heaven.

The second (a very close second) most memorable moment is when we go to the Sky Deck and stand under the funnel at sail away...and that overwhelming chill that comes when the Captain blows the ship's horn that vibrates us and the ship and tells us we're under way.

We really don't want that feeling to end, even when we sail past the condos on the Port side with everyone waving to us and finally go out to sea and see land slipping slowly into the horizon.

It's almost anti climatic leaving the deck and returning to our stateroom to get ready for dinner.

[SeaRay48]

Arriving at the port and seeing the Ship waiting for me, and knowing that the cruise is ready to begin.

My first cruise ship was the aircraft carrier CVA62 Independence, what an impression that ship made upon seeing it for the first time.

I also agree with Rev. Neal on the majesty of being at sea.

[sreed41]

I have enjoyed reading everyone's responses and it has brought back such wonderful memories of our cruises. We're booked for our 7th cruise in March and I am so grateful for the ability to travel this way. I remember our first cruise (Alaska in '99) and how amazed I was at the size of the ship and how beautiful it was. So, for me walking up the gangway and entering the ship remains the highlight of every cruise. Perhaps that's because we've been on 6 (soon to be 7) different ships so each view is different and I'm never sure exactly what to expect. Reading this has also heightened my excitement (if that's possible) about going in about a month. Thanks for sharing.

[jrzebird]

This was a difficult choice for me, as well. I said anticipation, and that is a big part of it, but I wish I had said the first time you see the ship or walking up the gangway. Those two moments take my breath away. I recall our last cruise and going up the gangway. I savored ever second and every sound. I almost wiggled out of my skin, I was so excited. And the sound of the card swipes as you approach is a symphony, with your own card being the height of the crescendo. And then, you are home.

[richmon]

after that it's all downhill lol

actually for me it is each sailaway from port

[Freedom55]

after that it's all downhill lol

actually for me it is each sailaway from port

I agree - sail IN and Sail OUT are both big highlights. I am always up to watch us sail in because sometimes we are at dinner during sailaway.

[Live4cruises]

Thank you for this terrific thread. My personal favorite is standing on the balcony (aft whenever possible), and listening as the sound of the wake changes as we offload the pilot and gradually pick up speed. Underway at last!

This is all about the magic and romance of the sea, though. It was wonderful to read what everyone posted, you can tell that cruising brings out the heart and soul and best in all of us.

May we all cruise well and often!

[mamaofami]

This was a difficult choice for me, as well. I said anticipation, and that is a big part of it, but I wish I had said the first time you see the ship or walking up the gangway. Those two moments take my breath away. I recall our last cruise and going up the gangway. I savored ever second and every sound. I almost wiggled out of my skin, I was so excited. And the sound of the card swipes as you approach is a symphony, with your own card being the height of the crescendo. And then, you are home.


I couldn't have said that any better. A perfect description of my feelings. And I',, "be home" in three days.

[innlady1]

Up in the Crow's Nest, sipping our frozen drinks at sail away, watching the N.Y. skyline get smaller & smaller, while passing the Statue of Liberty & going under the Verrizzano Bridge:):):) that to us is pure bliss:)

I'm with you Lynne...it gives me goose bumps to sail pass the State of Liberty and under the Verrizzano Bridge!

That's one reason why we're doing the Noordam again next week!

[innlady1]

...I have to add, I love the anticipation of a cruise...and it's with me longer than the cruise, too! ;) It is very difficult to choose a favorite!

[Susie51]

Being at sea on the uppermost outside forward deck, is a huge favorite. I hate it when they make me leave the deck because it gets too windy some times. a lot of ships have added Plexiglas now and it just isn't the same without the wind.

Is the Maasdam still "open"? Sailing out of Bar Harbor was quite windy the day I was there.

Totally agree. The anticipation is great and it lasts a long time. I feel sort of empty right now because I have nothing booked.

My daughter was accepted to be a holiday Club HAL worker, but her schedule didn't permit it at the time. They told her they would put her name in the permanent file. I'm hoping she chooses HAL as her employer. As soon as she knows which ship she will be on, DH and I are booking the Christmas cruise.

[ltsally]

It is hard to choose! Anticipation is certainly right up there (and boy, is this thread fueling mine!), because it lasts so long and -- at the moment, for instance -- is getting me through a too-long, too-snowy winter.

But numero uno is probably casting off and sailaway, preferably watched while sipping a classic martini!

Freedom 55, I have to ask - is that a Packers logo with your signature??

[Freedom55]

I

Freedom 55, I have to ask - is that a Packers logo with your signature??
Yes it is! I am missing them today, they should have been here!

[joangg]

The last port of the Rotterdam 1998 RTW cruise was Nuku Hiva. As we left for Los Angeles, the captain played Sarah Brightman singing "It's time to say goodbye" and I stood on the balcony, watched the sun reflected on the low hills and was filled with wonder and joy. I still when unable to sleep or am depressed, bring back that few minutes and am glad.

[5 in OK]

Awesome thread!

My most favorite cruise moment was standing on our W'dam balcony with my husband, parents and three kids (10, 12 & 14) and watching their faces as the pilot swung our ship around to face the Hubbard Glacier in Alaska - wow - what a moment!

[kwahl1]

:D :D 3 weddings in one day and the action in the cabins on both side of me. If you know what I mean. The smiles the next morning too!

[Freedom55]

How about Doc arrival!!! LOL

[Freedom55]

Doing the doc dance for our March 8th cruise!!!

[VTcruisenut]

I am from a small community in Vermont. Our first cruise was in March of 2005 out of Tampa on the Veendam. I have to say, seeing the ships for the first time left me in awe! And then, at the first Port being next to the Veendam and realizing that we were on her was just amazing. Now, this is our 3rd cruise and the second on the Veendam. I have no desire to cruise on the super huge ships..............I love the glamour and intimacy of the smaller fleet. I still am in awe of all the places I have now been thanks to cruising! It is the only way to vacation!:cool:

[mamaofami]

I voted a while ago that my favorite cruise moment was walking across the gangway. Having just returned from the Noodam, I have to say, that as I crossed onto the ship, I looked at DH, got all choked up, and said, "We're really here". That's the best moment.

[GTVCRUISER]

Cruising up the Mississippi River on the Carnival Sensation and seeing New Orleans for the first time

[rich_cathybrock]

In 2006, we were aboard the Golden Princess in the Med.

We met several CC'ers who are all now dear friends, and had spent nearly the entire time from the CC gathering on boarding day to disembarkation together.

We sailed into Venice the last evening on what was an unusually clear fall night.

We were all on the top deck, facing St. Marks Square in her 14th Century beauty, and it was so silent up there you could hear a pin drop! There were dozens of passengers up there with us for the sail-in, but everyone was so awe-struck with the Ventian Cityscape unfolding in front of us that nobody uttered a word.

Suddenly, Con Te Patriro (Andrea Bocelli) was playing over the sound system up there, and I swear, there was not a dry eye amongst us!

It was so memorable that I still completely relive that moment whenever I hear that song to this day!

This was one of our life's most incredible moments, and I plan to bring the CD (which I bought when I returned) to listen to this when we sail into Venice with our dear friends on the Zuiderdam this October.

In fact, I'm listening to it again right now...

[Freedom55]

In 2006, we were aboard the Golden Princess in the Med.

We met several CC'ers who are all now dear friends, and had spent nearly the entire time from the CC gathering on boarding day to disembarkation together.

We sailed into Venice the last evening on what was an unusually clear fall night.

We were all on the top deck, facing St. Marks Square in her 14th Century beauty, and it was so silent up there you could hear a pin drop! There were dozens of passengers up there with us for the sail-in, but everyone was so awe-struck with the Ventian Cityscape unfolding in front of us that nobody uttered a word.

Suddenly, Con Te Patriro (Andrea Bocelli) was playing over the sound system up there, and I swear, there was not a dry eye amongst us!

It was so memorable that I still completely relive that moment whenever I hear that song to this day!

This was one of our life's most incredible moments, and I plan to bring the CD (which I bought when I returned) to listen to this when we sail into Venice with our dear friends on the Zuiderdam this October.

In fact, I'm listening to it again right now...

Great post! Thanks! (I gotta go listen to that song!!!!1)

[piratelooksat45]

Sitting on the deck in the late afternoon/early evening after the crowds have left. There is the anticipation of a gorgeous sunset and the joy in knowing that we are one of the few who know what a special time of day this is when cruising!

[m steve]

and putting bags in the car. The second best is hearing your luggage tag color called at disembarkation.

Nice to be back and brightening your day. I was in coventry for 10 days as I upset someone with an obsession towards the underbellies of jets and then a week in the hospital for open heart surgery. I actually have one although it moos now.

[Freedom55]

any more?

[kryos]

To me, it's walking onto the gangway to board the ship. As soon as I get onboard, I can actually physically feel all the stress drain from my body. I know that for the next so many days I don't have a thing to worry about. Every single one of my needs is gonna be met, with very little effort on my part to make that happen.

God, I love it.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

The neatest thing that still brings a smile to my face when I think of it ...

My first cruise. I had missed the Rotterdam out of Fort Lauderdale and had to pick it up in Costa Rica. Most people would think I would have been fed up with cruising before I even boarded the boat, but I was trying to look upon the whole experience as an adventure.

I had been staying in San Jose, Costa Rica for a couple of days, waiting for the Rotterdam, and the morning it pulled in, I had a private car with driver to take me on the couple of hours drive from San Jose to Puerto Limon. Because I couldn't rest until I got to the ship, I skipped breakfast and had him come early.

I finally get on the ship and into my cabin. What a relief. But, boy was I hungry by that point. Everyone was off the ship on various shore excursions, so I stopped a cabin steward in the hall.

"I know it's not really meal time, but is there anywhere around here that I can get a bite to eat? I just got on the ship today, and boy am I starved."

He looked at me and I could see he was stiffling a laugh.

"Ma'me, this is a cruise ship. You can eat just about anytime of the day that you wish." He then pointed me to the Lido.

Only after that cruise did I realize the significance of what he was saying. The food is virtually unlimited and there all the time. Man, I wish it was like that here at home! :)

Blue skies ...

--rita

[cruiseapril]

The best moment is being up on deck and viewing the vast ocean when the ship is far from land. Majestic.

[ctsally]

Seeing the ship for the first time seems to always bring tears (literally) streaming down my beaming face. The reality that "I'm really here!" hits me like a club. Naturally, stepping off that gangplank and onto the ship starts the silly performance of tears of happiness once again. That feeling of euphoria is beyond description.

[rkacruiser]

Once home, looking at the pictures from the cruise, reading my journal, and remembering all that I experienced: that's my favorite! Makes me want to get out the brochures and start planning another cruise.

[Freedom55]

bounce

[RuthC]

bounce
:confused: :confused: :confused:

[Freedom55]

gangway is at 100!

[COP]

My best moment is, having to show my documents and ID at the terminal gate (in San Diego):cool:, all the while, staring at the ship, knowing that I will soon be at the aft bar area, having a cool one, waiting for sail away.:D The rest is Pure Joy also.

Phil

[Kween Karen]

The anticipation is wonderful.....I have been anticipating my next trip for 17 months already!! I have already seen my ship.......
I think that walking across the gangway and boarding........and then the actual sailaway will be tremendously thrilling. Of course I am also looking forward to the many new ports I will be seeing.
Hmmmmmm..........maybe this time is will be "sailing into the new ports!!"

[momatibm]

The first time I cruised -- I boarded in Ft Lauderdale -- after hanging around in the terminal for a loooong time -- but this was is 1988 -- I didn't see the vastness of the ship -- and it was the Rotterdam V = so much smaller -- once I was on board and looked over the rail -- omg -- bigger than I could have imagined.

Ten years later I was in the Bahamas with my DD and friends, we were on the beach -- like what else is there to do -- and one of the floating skyscrapers sailed by -- I was never happier than that my boat was a real cruise ship, not a floating cruise ship.


Enjoy

[timothy998]

My favorite moment(s) were at night, out on our balcony, looking at the thousands of stars in the sky that we cannot usually see, feeling and smelling the fresh salt breezes, hearing the sounds of the ship moving through the waves and the roar of the ocean, and seeing the occasional lights of a passing ship or of an island being passed.