Disembark in New York - And My Reflections on the Voyage

Oh I did not sleep well.  We never sleep well on the last night.  It isn't like we need to be up early (clocks went back an hour to put us on Eastern Time).  We are tired.  And we are just getting off and into our car.

We have been assigned the second walk off with checked bags.  It is soon apparent that there are issues on the pier.  We are told that there are not enough custom agents and that is slowing down the process.  Also bags are delayed as well.

We were scheduled  for 810 but only got off at 845 and bags from colours later than ours were not out and guest had to wait to the side for them to be put out.  Ours were quickly found and we got in the queue for customs.  There were only 3 agents!  Crazy considering how many people are on the ship.  

Our car was right there where we parked it at the terminal.  And we are off!  Traffic is heavy around the port but once we got going we were on our way and quickly on the highway and it was really smooth sailing (or driving).  

We spent the night just outside Portland Maine and had a lovely dinner and I think my eyes were closed at 7:30 pm!  I was concerned I would be wide away at 3, but nope I slept right thru to 7 am.

We wanted to stop at a few shops and buy some things but when we got to Target in New Hampshire and to Walmart in Maine, it was quickly apparent that prices here are expensive.  We are looking at some food items - butter is just a bit cheaper than at home (but with exchange more than home), olive oil, kitchen items, and pharmacy items.  Needless to say we bought hardly nothing.

Necessary Lobster Roll

Our ferry from Bar Harbor is at 3 pm and we have to be there by 2 pm.  Once again we had to do the ArriveCan App before getting on (which we had done).  We are given another declaration form (3rd one of the trip - first for Halifax, one for St. John's and now our final one).  

We are on board around 210 and get a seat at the back and settle in.  I guess everyone got on in time as we left about 15 minutes early.  The ride was a bit bumpier today with swells.  Many people were buying motion sickness pills from the store (one tablet for $5 US).  We had not issue.

We live only two hours from Yarmouth NS and we are home by 9:45 pm.

Overall it has been an amazing trip.  So utterly stunning.  But my reflections are:

• Bring appropriate clothes.  Layers are key.  If you are not use to cooler climates bring more!  So many people complained it was cold.  Yup that is how it is in Greenland.
• The ports are not huge in Greenland.  Don't expect Diamonds International, Del Sol, tons of souvenir shops.  The ship's population is double what is in the port.  Their infrastructure isn't designed for tourists galore.  Enjoy the scenery!
• Shore excursions sell out quickly and there are not many of them.  Sign up for them as soon as you can to guarantee a spot.
• It got very crowded indoors and difficult to find a quite space.  This was due to the weather conditions forcing everyone in.  It is good to be aware that this could happen.
• Also food products will age - for example bananas by the end of the cruise were harder to find and if you did they were getting old.  Because of the cruise length and the itinerary it was not possible to bring on provisions in Greenland.   
• This itinerary naturally draws an older crowd.  First they have the time to do a longer cruise and they can afford it.  There were a handful of people under 18 but not many.  Average age I would guess was 70.  Nothing wrong with that but don't expect the dining room busy after 8, or the disco for that matter.  By 10 pm the ship was a ghost town.  

I know my lectures were well attended.  Guests stopped me all over the ship, numerous times a day, and even on shore to say lovely things.  I am hoping I am back for next year - looks like I will.

Thanks for following us on our journey.  

Remember my views and words in no way reflect the views of Princess.

Newfoundland and The Last Days of The Cruise

I am sorry.  Like so many times in the past as the cruise comes to end my interested and motivation in writing my blog dwindles.  Also it just feels like with so many sea days I really don't have anything to say or it feels so repetitive and I wonder who really cares that I slept in, that I ate breakfast, blah blah blah.

But I am a blogger and I need to write what has been happening.

For St. John's we really didn't do much.  Originally we were going to go and see friends and spend the day with them.  However they are heading out on an European cruise next week and with a higher risk of getting Covid on board lately I just didn't want to risk exposing them and their trip being derailed.  So we postponed.  

The weather was beautiful and hot!  So many things to do within walking distance of the ship.  Water street (which is one block up from the pier) is closed on Sundays to cars - pedestrian only.  Lots of restaurants, bars, shops have spilled out onto the streets.  Great spot to just people watch.

One thing worth noting.  Make sure you are out on deck for sail in thru the channel, it is spectacular.  At minimum you must be out on deck for sail away.  Because it is a Sunday the Newfoundlanders lined the street and as we pulled away we heard car horns beeping away as our send off.  They locals climbed Signal Hill and were all over the mountain!  Waving!  So special.  In all my sail always from all over the world I don't think I have seen such a wonderful send off.  

The next two sea days were rather quiet.  The weather was great and after 10 days of cold weather and being forced indoors because of it, it was good to see that people were being able to enjoy the outdoors.

We really laid low.  We watched a few movies, we read a lot and I caught up on my sleep.  

No matter how long a trip is, when we know we have to go home soon, we are ready to go home.  I am anxiously awaiting my garden.

Two Sea Days Heading Down to Newfoundland

picture taken in Halifax but this is how quiet it was today

After two port days I know we are ready for a sea day.  I believe the guests are too.  Unfortunately the weather is misty and does not make sitting out very comfortable.

I did try to sit on a bench under cover to watch Bohemian Rhapsody under the stars - correction under the clouds, but just too cool and damp.  

Of course this makes all the indoor public areas very very busy.  Impossible to find a quiet spot.  Even Skywalkers is busy and people are playing cards and for me to be able to write and read I need quiet.  Oh and sitting in the International Cafe is impossible.  I think I maybe have gotten a seat once or twice.  They are hugely coveted.  Of course this is all because the weather is not conducive sitting outside.  Another itinerary that is warmer would be completely different.

picture taken in Halifax but this is how quiet it was today

Also today the Captain came onto the Public Address and into the cabins this morning.  You know it is important.  Covid cases have been rising and they are asking guests to be diligent.  Wash your hands, wear a mask and report to medical if you have symptoms.  

I have noticed more are wearing masks in public.  Note too that everyone on the sailing is fully vaccinated and boosted.  It was required because of the length of the voyage.

I have been careful, but so many guests have been chatting with me without masks so I have brought my own supply of tests and have tested every few days.  So far, all negative and I feel great.

I have my Newfoundland presentation today at 1 pm.  It requires a few props and logistics so I have to take more time getting ready.  I am sure it will be busy.

2nd And Third Sea Day

The seas have been very nice.  Today we even saw a lot of whales. These are mainly pilot whales. Saw them all over, all day.  Scan the horizon and watch for spray from the blow holes.

It really has been uneventful.  We wake up, have breakfast, once in dining room next day in buffet.  

Finding a spot to sit inside during the day is hard.  The weather is cold with the wind and that means everyone is inside.  

Lots of activities happening, games, cards, movies, lectures (including mine) and then some meals.

I am presenting my lecture about Cape Breton today.  I really wanted to make it special, have those attending to understand, feel how hard it is in Cape Breton for the fishermen, the coal miners etc.  But I also make sure to share some great music too.  It was very well attended, I would guess 70% in the Princess Theatre.

In the afternoon the Captain comes on the PA and you always know that something is up.  There is a bad weather system further north.  If we continue we will have to really slow down and it will be very rough and we would be very delayed into Nuuk.  It has been decided that due to the weather the port is being cancelled.  

Yes this is disappointing.  However our Captain and his team are professionals and their first priority is the ship and those on her.  

I immediately head to the cabin and call the Entertainment Director to see if I can be of any help with a lecture for the unexpected sea day instead of Nuuk.  Madison agrees and decides to have me present my 9/11 the day the world came to Gander Newfoundland at 2pm in Explorers in a few days time.  Princess Theater is not available as they are getting ready for Bravo tonight.  

Dinner tonight is in the Palm Dining room.  We have enjoyed dining here.  It seems quieter than the other 2, and we haven't had a problem getting a table.   Food has been outstanding all over the ship.  I think I can only recall one fish dish that was dry all others have been very good.

We are up at Skywalkers dancing and drinking.  Oh my, not use to drinking this much, and although I am nowhere near drunk, I do have a good buzz and I end up just leaving my last drink there.  Thankfully we danced a lot too.   

I crash but wake up and take an aspirin just in case.  But I have a great sleep in.  

Sea Day First of Three

Seas were calm last night.  We slept soundly and when we woke we felt rested and ready for a sea day after two port days.

I do have a lecture today at 1 pm so I do run thru it and get it ready.  

The lecture was very well attended, I would say 75% full and many standing.  It was well received and I had lots of great comments afterwards.   Today's lecture was called "Expulsion of the Acadians from Nova Scotia".  So many were not aware of this history and how closely it tied in with the US.

After the lecture we head up to the buffet for some lunch.  It is definitely cooler as we sail up the western side of Newfoundland.  

I throw on a sweatshirt and sit on the promenade and read for two hours.  

The evening starts with some cocktails and then we aren't really hungry so we walk to Princess theater to attend the early production show "Born to Be Wild" which we haven't seen in ages!  But we went way to late and the theatre is packed!  Even the second show is totally full.  I recommend you arrive at least a half hour prior to the show to get a seat.

Sydney for the Day Sabatinis at Night

We miss the sail in.  We check the bridge cam and sure enough we are docked and the sun is shining, but there is a risk of showers.

Nothing planned until noon, but I want to go ashore and explore our old town.  

check these booths for tours first thing

tourist information booth

The pier is a great spot to explore.  Lots of shopping, and all made by those selling it.  If you are interested in an independent tour there are two booths right at the gangway that can sell you tours, but get off early to secure a spot.

There are not a lot of taxis here but the ones that are here are keen to do tours.  I did hear some people state later that they took a taxi and the driver did try to say the meter was the price per person.  Note this is NOT the case, it is per ride.

But the terminal has free WiFi, tourist information, an atm, washrooms, lots of great shops and a wonderful restaurant called flavour.  

Walking to town is easy, but a bit uphill, and around 10 min walk.  Now Sydney's town center doesn't have a whole lot to do for tourist.  There is a museum, and a few shops, and restaurants and quite a few pubs.  Really the main sites to see here are further afield.

Head out to Louisburg, Baddeck, Cabot Trail, Glace Bay Miner's Museum - but do a tour here.

Today four of Bernie's 7 siblings are coming in to meet us for lunch, along with a niece and nephew and great niece.   We had a wonderful visit with all of them.  Many who we have not seen since we moved a year and a half ago.  

Also Dominique showed up after she finished her shift and crew drills.  It was lovely for her to meet the family and they all hugged her and said she is now their family too.  How sweet.

We left with Dominique and went and grabbed a drink with her before returning to the ship.

Bernie has a nap and I get a cocktail and head up to the top deck to enjoy the sailaway.  It is very picturesque!  

Tonight is dinner in Sabatinis but not until 830.  So we have a nap and head down for dinner.  Note when trying to make reservations no time slots were available.  Just show up and talk to them as they seem to have open slots that don't show up on app.  

Dinner was amazing.  We love the new menu and really missed it on the Majestic.  Service was outstanding.  Some of the best we have ever had.

Of course after a big meal we can't go to sleep, plus we had a nap.  So off we go to Skywalkers where we dance the night away.  And there were quite a few people there.  

First Sea Day - Afternoon and Evening

The ship is busy.  I know there are just over 2,700 guests. with half being platinum and elite.  There are 4 Captain Circle Parties over 2 days.  But as it is a sea day, and it is cool outside everyone is crowded inside.  

The cruise staff have an abundance of activities to do. 

I shower and dress for my first lecture.  I show up a half hour early and I am glad I did.  I seem to always have issues with sound from my presentation onto the screen.  Today it happened again.  The production team again are amazing.  They worked hard to get it working but I am thinking I am going to have to figure out a solution, as this is becoming a real pain.  

The theater was very busy.  I am guessing about two thirds full!  The lecture is all about the Halifax Explosion of 1917 was well received.  I had lots of great feedback.  One woman came up and thanked me so much.  Her great uncle was blinded by the explosion and she did not know the full story, now she does.  A lot of people commented that they were not even aware of the explosion.

After the lecture I quickly went back to the cabin to change and then up to the buffet to eat something as it is now 2 pm and I haven't eaten since 830.  

One great thing about the Caribbean Princess is the promenade deck.  I head out and sit on a teak chair and watch the sea go by.  Ahhhhh  can you hear it?  The waves crashing?  Can you feel the salt air hitting your face?  Well I sure did.  I must of spent 40 minutes out there taking deep breaths and enjoying the moment and realizing how blessed I am.

Tonight is formal night and we have decided to have an easy night.  Maybe a cocktail or two then dinner upstairs at the buffet.  And this is exactly what we did.  Food on board has been very very good.  

Went and ironed a few blouses that needed it badly.  On the way back to the cabin two women recognized me as the lecturer and we had a lovely conversation.  They are looking forward to the next one.  Love it, I am doing my job if people are learning something about this beautiful area.

I really need a good night's sleep and I am determined to get it.

Packing! Preparing for Travel

Well it is time to pack.  Not one of my favorite things to do.  But I must say I do have it down to a science now.  

First - we love that we now have enough space in this house to actually dedicate a room for packing!  Crazy I know.  

The room keeps getting things added to it starting about 2 weeks before we leave.  

Anything we think we might need goes in there somewhere.  

The suitcases are thrown on the bed, but never getting filled until just a few hours before we leave.

I pull out a lot of my clothes and I try on everything!  Yup everything.  Does it fit?  Does it need repair?  Then I match it with corresponding items (pants/shorts etc.).  It must be able to go with at least two items or it gets put back in the closet.

I separate the piles of "approved" clothes into evening and daytime and then work my way to my shoes.  I am good with limiting shoes, but still bring two pairs of dressy shoes, 2 pairs of flip flops, runners and a pair of flats to wear during lectures.

I then can match up what jewelry to bring and accessories (namely one purse, but I do bring a few shawls too).

Bernie takes care of all the necessary medication we may need.  He is a walking pharmacy I swear! 

We will also bring some laundry Tide Pods to do wash (note even though we are Elite normally, we don't have any status when working as guest entertainers).

Because we are driving to the port there are a few items we are bringing that we may not of brought if we were flying due to weight limits.  For example a few books and a pair of binoculars.

What is your packing routine?  

We have some friends from British Columbia that are visiting Nova Scotia while we are away so we offered our house to them while they are here.  So we need to do a good cleaning!  Sorry we will miss them though, but glad we can help out.

Stay tuned for more details as we travel.  

Note we won't have wifi when we are on the ship so although I will be blogging, it won't be live blogs.

Preparing to Travel

 

As excited as I am to be cruising again.  Cruising during Covid does take a bit more planning.

I am sailing as enrichment lecturer on a 16 night Canada Greenland Cruise.  

Last week we received notification from Princess that due to the length of the cruise everyone would require a booster dose of the vaccine. So now you need the initial Covid two dose (or one J and J) and one booster. 

This was provided two weeks prior to departure.  Now both of us have our first booster.  So we are good, but others who may of not gotten the booster would have to hurry and get it.  The 2nd booster has just come available to my age group recently in Nova Scotia.  But they are also asking us to wait until the Fall to get the 2nd booster for better protection.  So we are waiting for the 2nd shot till then.

We have scheduled our Covid test.  Thankfully getting tests for travel is much easier and much less expensive than when we did our travels in the Fall where the prices were crazy and slow.  

Now we are doing a test through On-Point Testing at a prices of $16.99 each.  We can do it from our home via Zoom.  We did similar in April and took no time and much cheaper. If you are not from the US, take note they require a US address to put in your booking but they told me just to put any address in the US, so we used the hotel address we are staying at.

We decided to drive down.  Airfares just kept getting higher and higher and higher.  $900 each to fly to New York!  Are you kidding me.  Plus who wants to risk their luggage not arriving before a cruise.  And since we can drive (takes about 14 hours) we will.  Plus add on baggage fees, night accommodation in New York, transfer to hotel, transfer to ship, transfer to airport after cruise.  Well it ended up being cheaper to drive.  Plus this give me an excuse to shop on the way back!

Actually we are trying out the NS Cat ferry that runs between Yarmouth and Bar Harbor.  Will save us 6 hrs of driving each way and 2 tanks of gas.   And it will be much more enjoyable sitting on a ferry for 3.5 hours than driving for twice that.  It isn't cheap but they had some specials and we jumped on it.

We will overnight and then travel the rest of the way to Red Hook, Brooklyn pier the next day.  Unfortunately we are going to have to park at the pier.  It is pricey but very convenient and we don't have any other option.  But still cheaper than flying!

We have the ArriveCan App already installed on our devices with all our vaccine information already in it.  All we have to do is update it prior to boarding with the health questionnaire.  

Take note that with the ArriveCan app no one really physically checks it.  It is connected to your passport and border patrol know who has done the app and who hasn't.  I say this because once we were reentering Canada and the agent didn't even ask to see the QR Code we got from the App.  I asked and he said no need I can see here from your passport on the screen you did the app.

So now I need to go and do another run thru on a few of the presentations.  Yes I keep procrastinating.  

Thanks for following!