"VALENTINES DAY AT SEA" a cruisin USA "LONG and LENGTHY" review

[cruisin USA]

...continuing....

 

 

 

"Funday on a Funship" pt I

 

Our First Sea day.!!! Woke up to some beautiful sunshine. Mary Ann woke up before me(as always), and hung out on the balcony. I joined her and we enjoyed watching the world pass by for awhile

 

 

 

 

We got ready and headed for "lunch on the lido". There was our room steward again as we opened the door to leave. She said "Good Morning, Mr. Gary". I'm really not used to this "Mr." stuff.(That's my DAD!!, may he rest in peace) I asked her what her name was. She replied SaiJai(a rhyming name pronounced "Sigh-Jigh") The rest of the trip, when she addressed me as "Mr. Gary", I would reply with "Yes, Miss SaiJai", and she'd smile. She was a TERRIFIC room steward throughout. Kept our room clean, and ice in our cooler. What else could we have asked for? I really like how the whole crew will say good morning if they see you(with a couple small exceptions). Being from the suburbs of Detroit we don't get lots of "Good Mornings"...(Chaulk it down to geography). Lots of people out and about on deck enjoying the sunshine. I really like the Horatio Hornblower statuettes that lined the walls both inside the buffet and outside on the Lido.

 

 

 

The “tiled” looking Union Jack tables outside were also pretty COOL.

 

 

 

 

At this time I will point out, that I only saw 1 “food” line that was remotely long throughout the trip.(and I just happened to have my camera with me).

 

 

 

(That’s what happens when you have plenty of places to chose from). We ended up with hamburgers, fries,(side of chili...ALWAYS cold....sigh), potato salad, and cole slaw. Went to the beverage table for a couple of lemonades. The deck was crowded, so we worked our way through the automatic doors, into the buffet area, where seats were always available. There were lots of people eating. Not very many children aboard at all. At one of the talks Malcolm mentioned 22 kids, but he might not have been serious. But I would believe it this cruise. It's fun to people watch. People of all walks of life, enjoying a cruise together. After lunch, we decided to explore the ship. Mary Ann had wanted to visit Gatsby's garden, so that's where we went first. All the way forward, deck 1. A long pathway, made to look like a garden stroll. An occasional porthole to stop and watch the sea go by. There were 2 gentlemen there reading. We passed by. A nice quiet "get away" area if there ever was one!!!

 

 

 

We only made it back here once this trip,(more later) but it would be a great place to sit back during a rainy day. Made our way up to deck 2 . It was nice to be able to walk from the front to the back of the ship without any obstructions. What a nice long promenade the Miracle has.!!! From the Back of the ship, with the Bacchus Restaurant, To the Frankenstein disco, or the Karaoke bar. Up across the atrium and into the casino, (Actually, the promenade goes right through the casino(machines).

 

 

 

 

Through the casino up to the main show lounges. Something for EVERYONE along this huge promenade.

 

 

....to be continued....

[Mary49]

Beautiful pictures of the Miracle and great review. Did you get a chance to see the cover band "Music Boardwalk" in Frankie and Johnnies? Thanks Mary49

[cruisin USA]

....continuing....

 

 

Up to deck 3(Atlantic) for a look in the stores.

 

 

Much nicer shop promenade than on the Fantasy/Destiny Class Ships

 

I will join in all I've read before about liking the layout of this ship. I picked up my tuxedo at the Formalities shop, and we headed back to the cabin. Came back to find gifts on our bed.....2 blue coolers(ahem....does blue coolers coming out of your ears ring a bell?).

 

 

 

 

I was SOOOOOO looking forward to that cool looking black backpack. Hey....PINS!!!! Miracle Pins?......Nope......."Platinum" Pins.

 

 

(never heard of these before, but given a choice I'd preferred a "Miracle" pin to go with my collection).

 

Also on the bed was our invitation to the past guest party to be held the next day. We settled back on our balcony to get some sun. After awhile I got tired. Took a much needed nap. We had decided to get our pictures before dinner, and I really needed my beauty sleep by this time.

 

 

....to be continued....

[cruisin USA]

....continuing....

 

 

Woke up, and it was time to get ready. We knew the picture stations would be most busy on Elegant night, when everyone is looking their best. Mary Ann picked this blue number...WOW!!!!!! I really like ordering a tux ahead of time. It's soooo much easier than packing everything needed(which you forget something, anyways). Also, you have use of it through the week(2 shirts). I did use the shiny shoes on a couple of occasions too.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pretty cool picture since I'm a keyboard player

 

We made our way down to the atrium. It was packed!!! Tony Ray was playing. Tony is a one man band primarily a keyboard player(with a backing track). People were in line getting pictures. The dance floor was PACKED full of people enjoying Tony's music. We stepped up to the bar. A lady who was enjoying the music talked to us. She told us what a nice couple we were.(No denying that). Tony broke into "Mustang Sally". The lady said they had requested it. Someone from her group asked her who wrote that song? I replied that I thought it was Wilson Pickett. Off we went to get our pictures taken . While we were waiting at one of the photo station. I see Malcolm walking around. I step up, introduce myself. Malcolm is a "hand bump" kinda guy. Probably good, seeing how many people he comes in contact with during a day. I tell him it's our 10th cruise, and we really like the ship(should have told him I'm a card carrying Cruise Critic member). Got a quick photo with Malcolm before we had to get our picture taken.

 

 

 

 

We got lots of photo's taken. We knew we didn't have to chose them all.

....to be continued....

[smplyblessed619]

I actually have the Destiny reviews saved in my bookmarks...I planned on reading those when things slowed down here at work lol. Malcolm's a cutie...hahaha and your guys elegant photos came out great! Tell Mary Ann I love her blue dress!

[cruisin USA]

....continuing....

 

 

....WARNING.....this sections contains FOOD PORN.....

Proceed with CAUTION

 

 

Off to our Elegant night dinner. Back to our private booth...hehe Dinner tonight? Oven Roasted Pumpkin Soup(think cream of tomato, with pumpkin instead)....slightly sweet, buttery, with a hint of chicken broth

 

 

Shrimp Cocktail, ....HOORAY!!

 

 

(Tonight, Mary Ann tried the didja.....Alligator Fritters. I tried a bite...Nothing special).

 

 

 

My Entree? Prime Rib, medium rare with REAL horseradish, and baked potato with "all the fixins"...YUM!!!

 

 

Mary Ann opted for Lobster tail

 

 

Dessert?......cooked cinamon apples between thin flaky pastry with caramel sauce.....DOUBLE YUM

 

 

Just before dessert the lights(along with all the lit grapes) in the room start to flicker. We hear this whispered "It's Showtime" (like we would hear nightly throughout the cruise)The lights come back on, and the Yusuf steps into the middle of the dining room with his wireless microphone. Again....he starts...."This is Yusuf, yourrrrrrrrrrrrr (wish I could roll my R's like that) dining room maître d" After the announcements, about being a pleasure to serve us, and the "Generations" show, the waiters line the room, and start singing "O Solo Mio. A touching moment, here on Elegant night. Back to the cabin for some liquid libation, and off to the Phantom Theater for the show of the night "Generations".

 

 

...to be continued....

[itsalljimmysfault]

Loving your review! Just got back from the same cruise on Feb 6! The Miracle was our very first cruise back in 2004 and we loved her again this time!

[cruisin USA]

.....continuing....

 

 

 

We arrived at the showroom. Got our "usual" spot. We like to sit 2 or 3 rows back(center or right). I REALLY liked this show. Basically, the show just goes seamlessly from one genre of music to another(in no certain chronological order). Soooooo many ELABORATE costumes(changes), and the choreography(especially during the "Big Band" era vignette) was OUTSTANDING. A High Energy show, featuring the HITS of all eras! The 2 singers this trip, Tanner McGuire and Darren Jefferies were GREAT!!!, They seemed to be having a great time, instead of just going through the motions as I've seen other Carnival "Lead" singers do.

 

 

 

Highlights of the show.....After one of the numbers, a screen/backdrop comes down. The stage is dark. A door opens in the backdrop, and I can see the silhouette of a woman in a "mod" type dress, with white go-go boots. You'd swear it was Nancy Sinatra. Sure enough , the lights come up, and Tanner delivers this spot on version of "These Boots were Made for Walking". The Beatnik number was cool, dressed in their berets and black knit pants, reciting poetry, and snapping their fingers. Of course they did a couple Elvis era tunes with Darren donning a HUGE wig, strapped on guitar, and a gold lamei coat., One really cool number had the entire cast dressed up in 60's Hippie outfits. "Hair" transitioning into "Let the Sunshine in" When all those flower children came dancing out into the audience on the second of the 2 songs, I felt like I was back in that era. 70's disco was represented with "Boogie Oogie Oogie" transitioning into "You Should be Dancing"(Bee Gees), The Village People guys coming out and doing YMCA got everyone off their feet doing the “arm moves” with the song. The 80's were represented with "Maniac"(Flashdance") and oddly enough, they did J. Geils "Centerfold" with different lyrics. I personally enjoyed this Show, and would recommend it to anyone who hasn't seen it as a "Don't Miss".

 

 

After the show, we headed back to the cabin. Funny how the showroom empties out right into the casino? Lots of people were stopping to play. I just wanted to get out of my tux. We headed back to the cabin. I changed, and wanted to go out for more. Mary Ann was tired, so she went to bed. I headed out. It felt like I was on a ghost ship. Nothing going on at all. VERY quiet. I made my way to the casino. 4 people playing on 2 tables, and a few people playing slot machines. In other words,,,,DEAD.

 

 

 

 

Oh well.....I did take a little time and take some pictures while it was so quiet.

 

Never saw anybody in MacGuire's sports Bar,,,Cool red and black motif though.

 

 

 

 

 

Stepped onto the muster station deck for a little.

 

 

 

Saw some of the life rafts, I saw on the Behind the Scenes tour of Destiny.

 

 

The Internet Cafe

 

 

 

 

 

Up to the lido for a slice of pizza. Ah, the most crowded part of the ship. Got my slice, and headed back to the cabin. Watched some TV... All the news stations were filled with the "Whitney Houston" story. The TV did have quite a few channels working. TNT was on, as well as CNN, the cartoon network, a local Ft. Lauderdale station(better than Denver), as well as quite a few ships channels, Cruise director talks, the excursion channel, ships location channel, ships shopping channel....etc. After awhile, it was time to go to sleep. Remember, I keep late hours owning a bar, so I just can't get to sleep(most of time) earlier than 3 am.

 

"This concludes day 2 on the ship. I'm taking a short break, and will return for "Grand Turk" shortly"

 

...to be continued....

[IsItTime]

I've been hoping you would post a review! Yay!

 

And my confession...I was on this cruise too....1st carnival cruise. (Our last cruise was 19 years ago!) I posted a few times on the roll call...but wasn't sure what to expect. I had a chance to read your previous reviews just before the trip from the links in your siggy...and you are a great story teller! Got me so excited for my 1st Carnival experience!

 

I did see you and your wife a few times but was too chicken to say anything....I know, my loss!!

 

We had a fantastic time and if I can find time and figure out pics, I will try to write a basic review as well....we also had our kids with us...although we hardly saw them, thanks to the awesome staff at camp Carnival.

 

Thanks for taking the time to do this and I can't wait to read the rest:).

[WeBeCruisin']

....to be continued....

 

I remember you guys! We chatted a few times but never were formally introduced to each other. I was with Jim's group (the VD at Sea guys). I was nicknamed "Cupid" on that trip. :rolleyes::eek:

[VIQT]

Enjoying so far. You're wife's dress (blue flutter dress) was beautiful. Great color on her. Looking forward to more of your review.

[keene state mom]

I am really enjoying your review, as I did this exact same ship last year,and was booked on a back to back to go again this year on the same week as you , but I had to cancel after waiting almost one year for personal reasons . ...However four of my very good friends flew in from Ontario Canada , to be on this cruise for a back to back one of which was Bob the man that fell in front of you, he had a heart attack, while my other good friend Brian started CPR and waited for the ambulance , instead of being on the Carnival Miracle he had his own little miracle, he spent his vacation in the hospital in Ft. Lauderdale were he received three stents, and wonderful care he is now home doing well, they had no cruise insurance, so there will be no cruise for them for a bit , but they are very grateful that they were at the right place at the right time .

Hopefully 2013 will bring us all together again .

 

I have to admit I was one of the BIg brother fans on your roll call ....sorry .....

[kittycrusin08]

Just love to read cruise novels. We were on the Miracle a couple of years ago and I am so sorry about the move to NYC and other places. We live in Florida and thought we would be able to go again and try the trip you took. Oh well, sometime in the future, maybe. Keep writing cause I cannot wait for the next chapter. Maybe you should think about writing a novel about your bar????? ;)

[cruisin USA]

....continuing....

 

 

 

 

“Another Grand time in Grand Turk”

 

 

 

 

Woke up. Mary Ann was already out on the balcony. We were already parked at Grand Turk. Unfortunately we were on the Ocean facing side, so we didn't have a view of the island. We got out a little earlier for breakfast today. We had to be at our Stingray Encounter at 11:30. We got up to the Lido deck. Through the glass, we could see the beautiful beach at Grand Turk(last time, all we had was a view of the Miracle).

 

 

Last trip we just hung out on the beach in front of the red awning

 

 

The first time we'd been here, we'd done the Dune Buggy excursion. It was ok, and we got to see most of the island. Last trip, we used our Grand Turk stop as a beach day(FUN!). This time we decided on the Stingray encounter/Gibbs Cay excursion. After a sumptuous, unhurried, breakfast, we made our way off the ship. I hadn't been on this ship before. But on all previous ships, we had to go all the way forward, and down to the bottom deck to get to the gangplank.

 

Sure enough, found our way right off the ship. Stopped for a couple pictures along the way.

 

 

Seemed like something was missing......

 

 

It didn't seem near as busy here as it had when we were here last time on the Destiny. Last time the pier was soooooo full of people, I couldn't get a picture of the "Welcome to Grand Turk sign. This time, no problem.

 

 

There's a reason the pier was empty. It was windy, and at some times coolish to cold. I had read that they could call the Stingray Encounter off if it was too windy. The way the wind was blowing us on the pier, this crossed my mind. Luckily for us, the sun eventually came out an kept us warm for the rest of the day!!!(Good Job Carnival,,,,hehe).We stopped at the Dufry(as in Duty Free) shop, as we were a little early. When it was time, we went out to the courtyard where we'd been before to go on our excursion. This time, ALL the excursion area were labeled(good job guys). We knew just where to go. We made our way over to our area, and after signing our lives away, we were led over to a small pier. Can't say enough about the beautiful turquoise color of the water...Just BEAUTIFUL

 

 

 

 

Everyone filed onto our boat. A man introduced himself as Captain Calvin.

Captain Calvin

 

He started the engines and off we went. He took us out about 200 yrds from shore and cut the engines. First, he mentions that this is where we're going to snorkel....(He's kidding, but how were we to know). Then he goes to introduce his 3 man crew. He went over safety procedures with us before he restarted the engines and we headed out to Gibbs Cay.

 

 

 

 

....to be continued.....

[cruisin USA]

....continuing....

 

 

 

 

He said that it would be a short trip(15 mins) to Gibbs Cay, He got the crowd all enthused about seeing the Stingrays(Crikeeeee). The water and scenery were beautiful, and the ride was pleasant in the sun. Finally we made it to the island. Captain Calvin started circling the boat in the "harbor area" of the island. We just circled for about 5 minutes. This we learned was the "call" to the stingrays. When they hear the boat engines they know where to be, to be fed. Eventually we land on the beach. They have a stairway they lower down to the beach, and tell you to go down the stairs backwards(it was easier that way). When I googled this island, someone said it was the most beautiful beach they'd ever seen. Hmmmmm....What was that I was saying before about taking each review with a grain of salt. Evidently the poster hadn't been to very many beaches. It was pretty. Uninhabited, that's for sure.

 

 

We look down into the water, and sure enough stingrays start coming in one by one. Most are small and grayish. One of the Captains crew is in the water already with a pretty big one. He's playing with it's "wings" sloshing them up and down in the water. The stingray seems to enjoy it. We all get off the boat and into the water. It's kinda cold at first, but is easily adjusted to. Everyone gets a turn to handle the stingray. Another one of the crew has this really cool, "waterproof" looking camera. One by one, people go and get their pics taken with the Stingray. First pic was just putting your arms in the water, and the stingray being supported by you(and the handler).

 

 

 

The second pic was "kissing" the stingray. The handler was pretty funny. He sometimes would say(in a girls voice) "Give me a Kiss" as he brought the stingray up. Somebody mentioned about "No Tongue!".....hehe The funnier ones were the ones who didn't want the kiss, who this guy would really play up.

 

 

Next up.....the stingray massage. Here the handler, lifts the stingray up, and lets him slide(slime) down your back. What I thought was interesting, was that as he pulled it out. The stingray would expell water out of it's mouth. That mouth looked pretty human at some times.

 

 

After all the pictures, the handler told us about the Stingray. He pointed at its spiny backbone. He also showed us the stinger. He told us about the venom being pretty powerful. For the record. He told us that the primary predators of stingrays are sharks. The sharks will move in above the stingray before it attacks. The stingray's only natural defense is its stinger, and that's evidently what happened to Steve Irwin. He was above the Stingray, and, well, you know the rest. After the demonstration. He asked people if they want to kiss the stinger(swear). He says it's 7 years good luck to kiss the stinger, 10 yrs good luck if you lick it. There were a lot of takers. The first gal kissed it, then licked it, and said...."Ugh...Salty". (What did she expect?) This reporter opted out of the kissing/licking. Heck, We didn't know where that thing had been......hehehe.

 

 

....to be continued.....

[cruisin USA]

....continuing....

 

 

After the Stingray Encounter, we're led to the beach. There's an area where they've done this demonstration before with lots of Conch shells laying around.

 

 

 

A small sign that said $5 each made it clear that these were for sale. The last member of the crew was the Conch demonstrator. He took the shell. He showed us that the conch was still inside. He pulls out a small hammer. He says putting a small hole in the back of the shell will break the vacuum the conch uses to stay in. He taps the mallet to the back, and the conch fall out into his hands. He shows everyone.

 

 

 

He points to 2 small clear tubes sticking out of the conch. He pulls them both out. He explains that this is natural ******(I can't believe that CC CENSORS me from writing the "V" word.....AGAIN ?????) and asks if there are any takers. 2 guys step up, and chew them up at the same time...Yuk. He shows us it's "eyes"(basically 2 stumps). Then he takes the knife to it, Cuts off most of it, and throws it back in to the brush. What's left is the meat of the conch. Everybody gets to try some. Hmmm...Like Crabmeat, but much chewier. After the Conch demonstration, it's snorkel time. The water is beautiful. Putting on the flippers and walking into the water wasn't as easy as I thought. Mary Ann decided to skip snorkeling and hang out on our blanket at the beach. I made it out about 50 yards. Saw a few fish and plenty of coral. I'm not much of a snorkeler, and I started making my way back shore. Mary Ann had come up to the shoreline, and came out to help pull me in. People started working their way back, and eventually we all got back on the boat and headed toward our pier. As we got off, they had a small stand where you could look at, and order your pictures. 1-3 pictures were $10 each. If you got 4-6 pictures it would be $9. Ordered our pictures at 2:00 and they told us it'd be about a half hour. The ship was scheduled to leave at 3. We'd be cutting it close. Just sat there in some beach chairs, and enjoyed the weather/view. Took a picture of the ship while we waited.

 

 

 

The pictures were done in about 20 minutes. We got them, and headed to the ship. Stopped off again at the Dufry shop, but didn't buy anything. Total spent on Grand Turk.....$45.00 for some PRICELESS pictures

 

...to be continued....

[cruisin USA]

Hello to all, Sorry, I couldn’t get through day 3 yesterday. I was just too busy. We were pretty busy at the bar, and I couldn’t break free. As I look at it I didn’t even get half the day through and there’s lot’s more to go. Man, threads sure travel FAST on this board…Found this review on page 4…..I’m going to try to get this started up again by 3:30. In the meantime.

 

 

 

 

Froufie, Glad you liked the decor...Mary Ann was sure suprised!

 

 

 

 

Mary49, Thank you for your kind words. Yes, Music Boardwalk is mentioned in the review. A REALLY good band!!

 

 

 

 

itsalljimmysfault, (love that name) Glad you can relive the cruise with us. "Welcome Aboard"

 

 

 

 

IsTtTime,.....It sounds like you folks had a GREAT time on your first Carnival Cruise. Wish you would have come up and said "Hello". I know,…… you didn't want to get in the the review.....hehe. Looking forward to seeing your review.

 

 

 

WeBeCruisin.....Allen! Yes I remember you. In fact, you did get a mention in my review.(coming up soon) You have a group of really nice people(that's our favorite kind).

 

 

 

 

VIQT. Thanks, and I agree about the dress

 

 

 

{{keenestatemom}}…….First I’m so glad that your friend Bob is ok!!! We had no idea he was going to be on our cruise (Isn’t it an amazing coincidence that we’d be there to see it). Second….I’m sooooooo sorry that you missed the cruise…..sigh. You were one of the people in the roll call we would’ve like to met in person. BTW….It sure wasn’t my roll call thread, and I was just pointing out the BB incident to illustrate how things can become so “off topic” sometimes…..It’s you above everyone here that I want to bring along with us on the cruise. “Welcome Aboard”

 

 

We’ve still got a LONG way to go!!!

 

 

 

 

Kittycruisin08….Thank you for your kind words. Actually, I'm more of a concert review kind of guy, and I post on a lot of other boards.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

back in a couple hours to continue

[WeBeCruisin']

 

 

 

 

 

 

WeBeCruisin.....Allen! Yes I remember you. In fact, you did get a mention in my review.(coming up soon) You have a group of really nice people(that's our favorite kind).

 

 

 

 

 

You're doing a great job with this review! Our group will be on the Conquest on January 20. We're sailing out of New Orleans, so you know there will be serious celebrating going on. :) You should join us!

[cruisin USA]

....continuing....

 

 

We got back aboard the ship. Hit the elevators up to Empress Deck(6) and worked our way back the length of the ship. We’re almost to our section when I see some of the VD@C door signs.

 

 

 

 

 

I almost knocked.......hehe.

 

(Well Allen, I can see why they called you Cupid this trip!! Cute photo)

 

 

 

When we got back to the cabin, there were chocolate covered strawberries and wafers(1 wafer the sweet taste of baklava, the other was chocolates with some kind of nuts inside)....YUM.

 

Platinum DOES have it's privleges!!

 

 

I had gotten plenty of sun that day. A little red but not too bad. It felt great to lay down and cool off for a few minutes. I remember turning to Mary Ann saying "Wonder when we'll be leaving?" We looked out the balcony to find out that we'd already left. We hadn't got too far out. But that's a testament to how smooth this ship can move.

 

 

Goodbye Grand Turk...Had a GREAT time!!!

 

 

 

....to be continued......

[cruisin USA]

....continuing....

 

 

 

After a little rest, we decided that we were hungry enough to have a little snack out on the lido. It was crowded with people, enjoying Sail Away. "Island Music" playing, party atmosphere, and now tided over. It was now cocktail time!!! WOOHOO!!!(Malcolms not the only one....hehe). Before we knew it, it was time to get ready for the past guest party. Got back to the cabin to get our invites, and then down to the Phantom Lounge. A past guest party like most I've been to. We arrived a little early, ther were about 30 peeps in front of us,

 

 

 

And the line grew fast behind us.

 

 

The doors opened. There was Malcolm,

Welcoming people back. Malcolm got a cell phone call, but I saw him cut the conversation short to welcome this little lady aboard. Good Job Malcolm! We settled into our usual spot.

 

...On a side note. There was a couple there who had brought their children. The kids were cute, but I got concerned when the little boy would jump from the 5th step up (the steps leading up to the stage) down to the floor. The mom seemed preoccupied to let the little girl stand on the stage.(even when the singer came out and started singing). Mom's and Dad's WATCH THOSE KIDS!. The little boy could have broken anything from that high a jump, or had the girl fallen 4 feet from the stage(and no doubt, they'd be the first to try to sue Carnival for having a stage and stairs in the first place had their “precious” children been hurt).

 

 

I started with a Whiskey Sour. Mary Ann had something blue and fruity....Something like a Mai Tai. The hor deurves were the same chicken salad or red gelatinous substance on a cracker. I looked around. Not a lot of people. A pretty good crowd on the main floor, not so many on the balcony. Malcolm came out and introduced the movie about to be shown. It was quite a different movie from last time. It's basically 2 towel animals talking on a bed. Through the conversation they segue into Carnival's origin. There we see the same part of the movie we'd seen before where the original owner talks about buying this ship and turning into the first of the Carnival Fleet. Gone is the talk about how the first ship ever ran aground(.......Ouch), and how they eventually became known as the "Fun Ships" I guess I can see why. (One point of anything is just that, but once you have two points, you can make a line.) Ok with me. I already know the story. Then the Towels invited us to view the Carnival Fleet, and cheer if we'd been on any of the ships. The ships appear in order of year entering the fleet. Mary Ann and I still cheered as the Ecstasy, and Imagination came up, then the Destiny, then the Paradise. Again when the Miracle came up drew the loudest cheers. I didn't hear a peep from anyone when the Breeze came out. The movie ended. Malcolm came out and told all the "people who cheered when the Breeze came out" "That ship doesn't even start till June." He does mention that the Miracle is moving west next year, and that they'll be doing a Panama Canal Cruise, as well as an Alaskan AND a Hawaiin...hmmmmm Waiters were still roaming, Got a couple of Yellowbirds off the tray. The band played another song. People were starting to file out. We decided it was time to go. Headed towards the elevators to our cabin. Right in front of Frankenstein's Disco I see someone look at me and say "Cruise Critic?". We stopped. I said "Yes I'm on Cruise Critic. What's Your Screen Name?". "Vanisland cruisers" was the reply. I'd read Jim's reviews. Glad I got a chance to tell him how much I enjoyed them in person!!! Jim is with 2 others. I recognize(or so I think) that this is Allen who is featured prominently on the VD@C peeps door signs. Jim tell's them that we're the couple that missed the boat. Allen say's "I remember I missed the bed once"...hehe. The gal outdoes him by telling on him about missing the toilet. It was nice to meet them, but it was time to get ready for dinner. It was dark out on the balcony, but we could still see some of the lights from Grand Turk as it faded to the background.

 

 

....to be continued....

[cruisin USA]

....continuing....

 

 

 

 

Tonights theme?.....Black and Bling...Mary Ann had enough bling, but I brought along some cool "light up" ice cubes for our cocktails. Got quite a few comments along the way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We changed and headed down. Again….Loved being at the aft for the SUPER easy access to both the Bacchus dining room, and the Lido buffet. Arrived at the dining room, and went right to our booth. Menus were handed out. Water poured, and bread served. Tonight I decided on Beef Marmite(vegetable beef with chicken chunks as far as I could tell). Sesame Chicken. and a NY strip cooked medium with steamed veggies…..EXCELLENT. We capped off dinner with our nightly coffee/cappuccino. Dessert?.....We split a WCMC. A PERFECT way to cap off a meal!. I love late seating. First, we ended up leaving Ft. Lauderdale late, but since we didn’t have early seating we got to enjoy sail away, 2nd. The way it’s timed, we get our dinner. have enough time to go to the room for a bit, then off to the 10:30 show. Pretty soon the lights start to flicker. Mary Ann and I with Yusuf, whisper "It's Showtime" The show tonight was a red hot latin number that had waiters up on the tables and dancing in the aisles. Our waiter particularly looked like he was having a good time). Have time to go back to the cabin to “freshen up”, and then hit the show. FUNTIMES had comedy listed at the Mad Hatters Ballroom from 7:30-11:45. Both Carl and Roman alternating. 7:30 and 8:30 shows were labeled as “family friendly”. We decided to go to the Thien Fu comedy show in the main showrooom. Headed down and we stopped to get a picture along the way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thien Fu was this Asian fellow who spoke in broken English(funny enough), but he was also a pretty good juggler. I remember the Malcolm announcing “Thien” as coming off an extended tour of Asia. Thien comes out, and says, “Just like announcer say, I come from extended tour of Asia…Now I’m soooooo dis”Oriented”. Made me laugh. Sometimes the crowd would groan. He’d just say “Write it Down, Write it Down”. Pretty funny, Then he started to juggle. He started with the bowling pin looking things, then moved on to some more dangers items. He did mention that the captain told him he couldn’t light the torch he was about to juggle with, so just pretend. He even brought a guy in from out of the crowd. Gave him a short “juggling between 2 people” lesson. The guy did pretty good for a minute. That was also good for some humor. The show was over too soon!

 

 

 

 

On this ship the “Sam’s piano bar” and “Frankie and Johnny’s” (the bandstand bar) are right next to each other, and right there as you’re coming out of the show. Brennan was singing “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” at the piano bar(Goodbye Brennan),

 

 

 

To the Beards.....I've said it before, and I'll say it again. I never saw the piano bar too busy this trip. You'd do a LOT better if you adopted the "dueling piano" bar theme. It wouldn't require much modification and you already have 2 piano players aboard.

 

 

 

We stopped for a moment to check out the band "Music Boardwalk". We'd seen this band on and off during the cruise. I don’t’ know what it is, but the last 2 cruises have featured Filipino bands, that play SPOT ON American music. I really enjoyed the spectrum of music these guys played. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a band play “How Deep is Your Love” by the Bee Gees. We headed off, and stopped by the casino to have a drink at the casino. Tony Ray was playing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He and “Guitar Grooves with Ron” alternated playing between the atrium and casino.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Out of the 2. I liked Tony far better. In my last review I spoke of how the single man bands played sooooo low. When I go out for music, I like the music to take center stage instead of being in the background.. While “Ron” was that kind of "in the background" musician, Tony was more center stage. Bravo Carnival for having BOTH kinds on this ship, and letting the peeps decide who they want to hang out with. (Saw TONS more peeps at Tonys show BTW)Anyway….I really liked that Tony(being primarily a keyboard player) would play some really off the wall stuff. Comfortably Numb(Pink Floyd, and DEFINITELY off "The Wall"....hehe) comes to mind(as I heard him do it a couple of times throughout the trip. Tony would talk to people at the bar. He was friendly and was always kidding with people.

 

 

 

Before we knew it, it was past midnight. We headed back to the cabin. It was soooo nice on the balcony. The wind was only slightly blowing. We could see the waves crashing into the ship below us. And the stars……Folks. Please don’t ever forget to take a few minutes (or more)to take the opportunity and look up on a clear night when you’re on a cruise. The stars are INCREDIBLE. With no cities around lighting up the sky you can see them REALLY good. They look sooo close you think you could reach out and grab one. One strange thing…..We didn’t see the moon at all during this trip. Soon enough it was time to hit the hay. We were looking forward to our beach day tomorrow at Catalina Island. We didn’t need to be the first off the ship. We knew there’d be a line up for the first few tenders ashore. Some people think that it’s the early bird catches the worm. (But you should also keep in mind sometimes that it’s the second mouse gets the cheese!!!......Write it Down….Write it down)

 

 

 

(Authors note.....This completes our 3rd cruise day....I will post more later on tonight.)

 

 

 

 

....to be continued....

 

 

[keene state mom]

I feel like I am reading a book that I can not put down, and even better I have been able to recognize some of my friends in your photos .. this is sooooo awesome...thank you so much

[vanislandcruisers]

I almost knocked.......hehe.

 

Wish you would have!!!...We had plenty of Beverages;):D...

 

Dee just emailed me saying "Man, he’s had his picture taken with a lot of people I would love to meet!!!"

 

Loving this Review as much as we have your others!!!...even more so now that we have met the both of you!!! + you are helping us re-live our Cruise...

 

Can't wait for the rest!!!

[WeBeCruisin']

Right in front of Frankenstein's Disco I see someone look at me and say "Cruise Critic?". We stopped. I said "Yes I'm on Cruise Critic. What's Your Screen Name?". "Vanisland cruisers" was the reply. I'd read Jim's reviews. Glad I got a chance to tell him how much I enjoyed them in person!!! Jim is with 2 others. I recognize(or so I think) that this is Allen who is featured prominently on the VD@C peeps door signs. Jim tell's them that we're the couple that missed the boat. Allen say's "I remember I missed the bed once"...hehe. The gal outdoes him by telling on him about missing the toilet. It was nice to meet them, but it was time to get ready for dinner.

I have to protest that I knew absolutely nothing about those Cupid pictures until I started seeing them all over the ship! They were inside my menu in the dining room, under my plate, the maitre d' brought me one he had signed and complete strangers were giving me copies to sign and stopping me int he halls to say "Oh, wow, you're the cupid guy". It was embarrassing.

 

With friends like these, who needs enemas.. I mean enemies?

 

Not only were they picking on a gentle old person who is a veritable delicate flower in the hothouse of life, but they were picking on a crippled old person. I had sprained/broken four toes at the pre-cruise hotel when a nightstand attacked me and I was hobbling around so much that I never got off the ship.

[mountainbreeze]

So good to see another review from you! I read your last reviews (We missed the boat!) and I loved them! Felt like I was there with you and Mary Ann!

 

I'm still on page 1 of this review, so I have a lot of reading to do tonight :)

 

I thought I saw a post from you somewhere that you and Mary Ann booked the Hawaii Oct 2013 cruise? If you are booked on that one, you should check out the roll call, It's a party over there already and we still have 19+ months to go!

 

I am loving this review and your great pics and descriptions of the Miracle. I'm trying to soak up all I can get of what the Miracle is all about before the Hawaii cruise.

 

OK, I'm off to read more of your review! :)