The long awaited day finally arrived and I was home once again, aboard the ms Amsterdam. I had a very nice welcome by Stein Kruse, CEO of Holland America Line along with Captain Fred Eversen, Hotel Director Henk Mensink, Gerald Bernhoft, Director of the Mariner Program and our Cruise Director Gene Young…. It was great boarding the ship with my friends Allan, Sandra, Brad & Gloria. Once aboard, it was very exciting seeing so many friends, both crew members as well as fellow guests. This is always one of the best parts of a Grand Voyage, getting reacquainted with old friends. Of course, the more you do these the more old friends you end up running into. It was a wonderful day, aside from the arduous task of unpacking. After boat drill, there was a fabulous sail away party. As we sailed out of the harbor it soon became time to get serious about unpacking again. Fortunately, I don’t have to worry about packing again for 7 months. This will be a fantastic voyage… we have 3 days at sea now heading for Kodiak Alaska. In Kodiak I will be heading out with my friends Harry, Margo & Brad on a float plane in search of Kodiak Bears….. Pretty exciting stuff!
Hi Jeff,
ReplyDeleteLooks like you're off to a fabulous start. Loved the shots from the Glass Museum-so vivid and the reflection of the Space Needle on the reflective ball.
Wishing you and friends a wonderful time and safe journey.
Looking forward to pictures from Kodiak Island-love bears- next June taking Oosterdam to Alaska and doing Danali-can't wait.
BVH- Groton, Ct
Looking forward to a great 220 day episode of your travels with great photos.
ReplyDeleteJeff,
ReplyDeleteThe ship’s VIP in a laid-back Hawaiian shirt, gotta love it. Bon Voyage!! Have a fantastic trip filled with beautiful scenery, interesting places, wonderful people and much laughter. Say “Hi” to Brad and Gloria from us. Thanks again for letting us tag along in your terrific Blog.
Bill and Carolyn
Feeling homesick for the Amsterdam when seeing you with Captain Fred, Henk and Gene, not to mention the sailaway party. We spent 148 days on board last fall on the Grand Asia then on part of the World cruise in the winter. Thanks so much for posting the photos so we can follow along.
ReplyDeleteJill and Joe
Hi Jeff, I am so happy to be able to follow your blog again this year. What an amazing time you will have!
ReplyDeleteI have to ask, what are your rooms like? I imagine that your suitcases would be stored elsewhere on the ship? Silly question, I know. I've never cruised (but have big dreams of doing a world voyage one day!) I picture tiny rooms, and wonder where on earth you store all your clothing *L*