Chris andpiptraveltips

If you google 'swan Hellenic minerva'you can get a full resume of where she's been since she was sold by them apparently has changed hands several times!

I believe the Minerva of swan Hellenic fame went to p and o as the new Adonia we did an Amazon trip on her 2006 before change of hands lovely small ship perfect for the itinerary I think p and o have now sold her on !

Have heard noble Caledonia cruises are. Small ship immersive trips we did Moscow - st Petersburg 1996 it was a music theme on a river boat with lots of great tours included

They also do ocean cruises which may be worth investigating!

Think it was one of the. Us ports when security was very tight it was the baggage search that identified the contraband candle rather than a scanning device! Airports don't return confiscated items after you get home so why should cruise lines store/ return them it enhances the deterrent if people know they will ultimately mot get them back!!

It was port security where the problem was and no the candles were not returned like airport security - you don't get confiscated items back at the end of the flight! May be a deterrent policy!

Beware If buying Yankee candles in port -cruises sometimes confiscate at security we get fridge magnets in every port trouble is we are running out of room on fridge /freezer !

A have you read skinny dip by Carl hiasen starts off on a cruise ship

Very interesting / amusing lots twists and turns!

You could consider if.you come across a "must have " tattoo design make a copy and have it replicated by your artist when you get home! Saves the hassle of aftercare during your cruise!

Why not take a picture of a tattoo design if you see one you like

You can always have your artist replicate it once you are home and you will be able to enjoy sun/ swimming etc during your cruise!

we are two longtime members of friends of Bill w travelling on 28 night emerald princess trip dept Los Angeles on 23rd October 28 nround trip

We did the same criuise 8 years ago and averaged 28 attendees at the daily group that was on the star princess hope we will get a good turnout this time - that trip was like a mini convention with sobriety ranging from 2 years - 40 years what a buzz!

:cool::p