Cruising Musings and other stuff

Nautical iPod Touch Cases

2012-01-09T09:33:00.000-08:00

If you (or your teenager) will be taking an iPod Touch along on your next cruise, why not go in style, with a nautical case for it? Maybe the perfect one is even customized with your name, like the case Seawater Custom iPod case shown above.

See more Nautical Themed iPod cases.

Here are a couple with water and coastal themes, from h2oWater Gallery:

More iPod Touch cases from h2oWater

Norwegian Breakaway to Call at Port Canaveral

2012-01-06T10:59:00.000-08:00

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that the new 4000 passenger Norwegian Breakaway, scheduled for completion in 2013, will homeport in New York City, Bahamas and Florida itineries that will include Port Canaveral as a port of call.

The seven night cruises, departing on departing on Sundays, will call at Port Canaveral on Fridays, after visits to Nassau and NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay.

2011-11-24T06:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving from Cruising Musings!

Happy Thanksgiving 2A Tile
by Ronspassionfordesign

We Love Sunsets at Sea

2011-11-15T12:11:00.000-08:00

I think most people who cruise value the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful sunrises and sunsets at sea. Here's one of the sunsets at sea that we enjoyed on our last cruise. (View is from our balcony... you can see the railing in the picture.)

Sunset at Sea Mousepad

By the Tracks Mousepad from Zazzle.com

2011-11-11T15:23:00.000-08:00

By the Tracks Mousepad by TropiCards

Thank You, Veterans

2011-11-11T01:10:00.000-08:00

Vintage Military Personnel; Patriotic

by YesterdayCafe

And Ecstasy Makes Seven

2011-11-08T14:17:00.000-08:00

Carnival Ecstasy
by Night Tracks (creative commons)

The Carnival Ecstasy sailed into her new home port of Port Canaveral on Monday night. And now, there are SEVEN ships home ported at Canaveral year round. (Plus the Norwegian Sun, which homeports there half of the year.)

This is good news for the suffering local economy, as estimates that the addition of another ship at the port may generate as many as 400 "direct" jobs, and pump millions into the local economy annually.

And it's good news for cruisers, as the ship will broaden options for those cruising from Port Canaveral, offering four and five night voyages to The Bahamas.

There are two choices of four night itineraries, departing on alternating Thursdays:

Nassau, Sea Day, and Freeport
Nassau,. Half Moon Cay, Day at Sea

Five night itineraries, departing Mondays and Saturdays, also offer two options:

Freeport, Nassau, Half Moon Cay, and a Day at Sea
Nassau, Freeport, Key West, Sea Day

Two Dreams come to Port Canaveral

Port Canaveral's New Cruise Terminal

Tropical Storm Sean

2011-11-08T12:43:00.000-08:00

Subtropical Storm Sean formed in the Atlantic early this morning, about halfway in between The Bahamas and Bermuda, and rather quickly transitioned into Tropical Storm Sean.

Bermuda is now under a Tropical Storm Watch.

Related pages:
Nationa Hurricane Center
2011 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Journal.

Nautical Tote Bags for Cruising, Beaching it, and Travel

2011-10-21T08:09:00.000-07:00

Along with a good selection of other nautical totes and travel bags available elsewhere on the web, some of the canvas cruise totes from CruiseReady on Zazzle are being featured in the article Nautical Totes and Cruise and Travel Bags.

The article also includes three general cruise packing tips that experienced cruisers will be all too familiar with, but that may be of use to those new to cruising.

If you're getting started on your Holiday gift list, you may find some ideas for that special person on your list who loves ships and the sea, traveling, or just a great day at the beach.

Other Articles of interest in this series include

MV Freewinds

2011-10-20T14:36:00.000-07:00

Here's a photo I took of the MV Freewinds several years ago in Barbados.

A little bit of her history:

She sailed the Caribbean, under charter to Commodore, as the Boheme from 1968 - 81, and was the first ship to sail a year-round seven night itinerary from Miami.

Between 1981 and 1985, she was under new ownership, but was again chartered out in 1982-83 for South American itineraries.

Following a refit, she again homported in Miami in 1984, and then in St. Petersburg until late 1986, when she was sold.

Today, she is owned and run by companies connected with the Church of Scientology, and is used as a floating platform for their educational programs.

http://www.squidoo.com/picking-the-best-cabin

2011-10-18T01:48:00.000-07:00

http://www.squidoo.com/picking-the-best-cabin

Custom Cruise Themed Postage

2011-10-15T17:42:00.000-07:00

Cruise lovers can spice up their routine mailings with cruise themed postage stamps like these from CruiseReady on Zazzle:

Have You Been To Cozumel?

2011-10-13T14:22:00.000-07:00

Cozumel Sandy beach
by LionheartXray

Have you been to Cozumel? It's an incredibly popular port of call on Western Caribbean cruise itineraries.

If you haven't been there (or even if you have) you might enjoy browsing this selection of Pictures of Cozumel, with a little dose of facts and information about Cozumel sprinkeled in. Enjoy!

A Friendly Cruise Forum

2011-10-12T16:20:00.000-07:00

Looking for cruise information? Find real chat from real cruisers, along with cruise reviews and more at CruiseLineFans

So, whether you're new to cruising, or a seasoned veteran, you can probably find something to interest you on this site.

Discovery Day in The Bahamas

2011-10-09T10:39:00.000-07:00

Cruising Detination: The Bahamas

Bahamas Beach and Palm Tree by mljacobs10

In The Bahamas, the first landing of Columbus in the New World is still celebrated on the original date of the actual landing, October 12, and is called Discovery Day. (In the US, the second Monday in October is now designated as the official federal holiday.)

Did you know that Columbus and the men of the Nina, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria first came ashore in The Bahamas? It is known that it was ONE of the islands of The Bahamas, but exactly which one is still being debated.

Whichever one it was, The Bahamas are certainly a beautiful place, and if you happen to be there on October 12, you can celebrate Discovery Day in lieu of Columbus Day.

I do love visiting our close neighbors off the southest coast of Florida, and I've gathered some Pictures of The Bahamas for you to enjoy.

Fun Cruise Buttons and Magnets

2011-10-06T16:06:00.000-07:00

Have some fun on your next voyage, with cruise buttons and magnets!

Wear a cruise name badge, or humorous button, or put a cute magnet or stateroom door marker on your cabin door.

You'll find the cruise magnets and buttons shown here, plus lots more, at CruiseReady on Zazzle.

Related article:
Here's a link for my Squidoo Lens about Fun Cruise Buttons.

What are some of the Dining Options on Cruise Ships?

2011-10-02T07:47:00.000-07:00

Food on Cruise Ships is a really big deal, with a LOT of it being available. the bigger the ship, the more food there is, in more places, and in an ever greater variety.
From the main dining room to the buffet, to snack bars, and specialty restaurants, there's someting for everyone.
See just what the big deal is in this article about food on cruise ships, complete with mouth watering photos of some of the fare.

Related Articles:
Cruise Sea Days
Read All About It - Cruises
The Higginbotham's Affordable Vacation Included a Cruise

A Treat for Cruise History Lovers

2011-10-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

I've been perusing a very interesting website this morning, and wanted to pass it along, in case there are others out there who might also enjoy. It's a real treat for anyone who enjoys maritime history.

It's Cruising the Past and has an amazing amount of information, including pictures and video about the great passenger ships that have sailed into history. The header of the site proclaims that it's an "Award Winning Cruise Ship, Ocean Liner, Travel, and social History Website."

Cruising the Past certainly has my vote, and if I had an award to give it, I would!

iPhone and other Cases for Cruisers

2011-09-27T16:04:00.000-07:00

These have been the four most popular iPhone cases this month at CruiseReady on Zazzle:

Those shown above are for the iPhone 4. Designs also available for the iPhone 3, the iPad, the iPod touch, all by Speck and Doodle Speakers.
Take your personal favorite along with you on your cruise, and cruise in style.

More Cruise Gear from CruiseReady on Zazzle

2011-09-25T10:27:00.000-07:00

Cruising Multicolor by CruiseReady

Cruising! Multicolor design line of cruise gear from CruiseReady on Zazzle. These are just a couple of examples . . .
Thereare lots of different items available in this design.

Thirty-Four Years Ago Today

2011-09-24T04:38:00.000-07:00

The Love Boat came to life thirty four years ago today.

Captain Stubing and
the rest of The Love Boat Cast

On September 24, 1977, the TV series The Love Boat began airing. It was set aboard the Pacific Princess, which was frequently used in filming, as was her sister ship, Island Princess.

Running for nearly 10 years, it inspired many people to take their first cruise. The final episode aired in May of 1986.

Oh, yes, there were re-runs, too.

A friend - and fellow member of Cruise Line Fans - actually cruised on Island Princess while segments of The Love Boat were being shot. He graciously gave me his permission to use some of his wonderful photos in my article, Love Boat, Starring Pacific Princess and Island Princess. If you were a fan of The Love Boat shows, you might enjoy the article.

Note - Other ships used for special episodes included Royal Princess, Sun Princess, Royal Viking Sky, and Stella Solaris.

Life Ring Themed Cruise Gear

2011-09-22T15:06:00.000-07:00

Check out this great life ring themed cruise gear at CruiseReady on Zazzle:

Custom kid's cruise shirt (also availble in adult styles)

and Custom Hat for Group or Family Cruise

Tote Bag and Ladies' Shoes
(children's lace up keds also available)

Stateroom Door Marker
and Name Badge

Cool, huh? This is just one of many designs available at CruiseReady on Zazzle. And there's a whole range of other products, too - including postcards, custom postage, mugs, mousepads, iPod Touch Cases, just to name a few.

St. Kitts and Nevis

2011-09-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

A Day in Paradise by gubanich

Have you cruised to St. Kitts? Then you may be interested to know that the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis will be celebrating Independence Day this coming Monday, September 19. Twenty-eight years ago Monday, the two island Caribbean nation became independent.

I haven't been there yet, but look forward to the day when I can. (I hope)
Meanwhile, I really enjoyed putting together this page showcasing Pictures of St. Kitts and Nevis on various products by the artists of Zazzle - from wall art to mousepads, mugs, and totes, to iPhone cases.

Some Related Articles:

Pictures of St. Maarten

Pictures of St. Thomas

Pictures of St. Lucia

UPDATE: Port of San Juan

2011-09-10T12:14:00.001-07:00

The Port of San Juan has re-opened.

Port Closings - T.S. Maria

2011-09-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

Tropical Storm Maria

  With Tropical Storm Maria approaching, ports in the northeastern Caribbean are closed or will be closed to incoming vessels.

The Port of San Juan went to condition Yankee last night, which closes the port to incoming traffic. It is likely that they will move into condition Zulu in the coming hours, and order all ships over a certain gross tonnage out to sea.

Currently due in to the Port of San Juan on Sunday are Royal Caribbean's Serenade of the Seas, and the Carnival Victory.   At this time, Tropical Storm Maria is forecast to be passing to the north of San Juan on Sunday.

As you can see from the attached satellite image, Maria covers a whole lot of real estate . Tropical storm force winds extend out some 200 miles from the center. However, the NHC tells us that the northeast side of the storm is the worst. While Puerto Rico may get some awfully bad weather, looks like it could have been worse.  Maria could have taken a more southerly route.

Niether RCCL or CCL has announced changes in disembarkation / embarkation for tomorrow's scheduled sailings - YET. They may or may not have to. It all depends on Maria.

Royal Caribbean is advising passengers scheduled to sail on Sunday to "monitor the Royal Caribbean website and their airlines for any additional updates regarding the storm and the status of the port." Carnival cruisers should be monitoring the situation as well.

Royal Caribbean is stationing Guest Assistance Agents in baggage terminals B and D at the San Juan Airport.

The itinerary of the Oasis of the Seas has also been adjusted because of the storm.

Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line to Move Ships to Miami

2011-09-05T07:23:00.000-07:00

Seven Seas Voyager

Regent Seven Seas Cruises will make the Port of Miami its homeport beginning next year, making the move from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades.

Oceania Cruises, the luxury line also owned by RSSC's parent company, Apollo Management, is already based in Miami.

Together with Oceania, the Seven Seas ships will sail from Terminal J. As of now, word is that the dedicated use of this terminal, which is newly rennovated, will be for the Oceania and Regent Seven Seas.

Apollo Management also owns a 50% stake in Norwegian Cruise Line.

* PHOTO - curated from WikiMedia commons under Creative Commons license

Hurricane Irene - Wednesday, Aug 24

2011-08-24T07:09:00.000-07:00

Hurricane Irene, having strengthened to a Major Hurricane, is making her way through The Bahamas today. With maximum sustained winds of 115 miles per hour, the large Category Three storm is running the length of The Bahamas, and virtually every one of the nations 3,077 islands, cays, and islets will be affected.

Residents on New Providence, where Nassau is located, have been boarding up, and shelters have been opened. A bit farther to the north, similar preparations are, do doubt, taking place in Freeport on Grand Bahama Island, and on the Abacos to the east.

In the small island chain of the Berry Islands, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line is battening down and evacuating its private island of Coco Cay.

CRUISE NEWS: To date, at least 15 cruise ship itineraries have been altered to avoid the monster storm.

Related Articles:

Tomorrow is National Aviation Day

2011-08-18T08:01:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is set aside as National Aviation Day in the United States. August 19 was chosen as a day to honor the development of aviation because it is the birthday of one of our great early aviators, Orville Wright.

NOAA Hurricane Hunter in flight
(public domain photo)

As my own contribution to National Aviation Day, I would like to invite you to read my tribute to some folks who do some amazing work in the air today - Hurricane Hunters. Here's the link to the article I wrote about them: Hurricane Hunters - Heroes Flying into the Eye of the Storm.

There's a place for your comments near the end of the article. Why not take a moment to add your own note of thanks to these modern day aviation heroes?

About Cruise Ship Swimming Pools

2011-08-15T11:07:00.000-07:00

Here's a link to a little article I wote about Cruise Ship Swimming Pools that my readers might find interesting.

It includes a pretty amazing video showing acrual breakers in the pool as a ship sails through high seas. This, alone, is really quite something!

I'd love your thoughts on the article linked above... there's a place at the bottom for your comments, and your visit and comments would be greatly appreciated.

Peak Hurricane Season is upon us

2011-08-05T13:47:00.000-07:00

Peak Hurricane Season for the Atlantic Basin historically kicks in sometime in the first half of August.
FYI- the Atlantic Basin includes the Atlantic Ocean the Caribbean Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico
Photo: Hurricane at Lake Worth Beach by heatherlacroix

So, here we are in the very beginning of the peak of the season, climatologically speaking. What will this peak season bring?

If you're considering taking a cruise, this is certainly a time of year when you can get a pretty good deal... if you are willing to take the (relatively low) risks associated with cruising during hurricane season. Check out the deals!

For homeowners who live in hurricane country, you know the drill: check your hurricane supplies and family evacuation plans. Make sure your NOAA Weather Radio is in good working condition and that you have plenty of extra batteries. And, if you haven't already done so, prepare for the worst case scenario with insurance, a go-bag, and provisions to protect your windows. Don't forget hurricane preparedness for your roof, either.

All that being said ... here's hoping the predictions for this season being an above average one, and of a high probability of major US landfalls (plural) doesn't come to fruition.

Stay safe, every one! If you're cruising this season, Bon Voyage to you. And if you are, or aren't... be prepared for the worst, but hope for the best!

Happy Birthday, Jamaica!

2011-07-31T13:36:00.000-07:00

Thursday of this week, August 4, is Independence Day in Jamaica. The island country, located west of the southern tip of Haiti and south of the eastern end of Cuba, has been fully independent since 1962.

Here is a little article I wrote: Pictures of Jamaica. As the name indicates, it focuses on quite a few pictures of Jamaica. Some of them are really beautiful, and others are just kind of fun images. This week would be a good time for you to enjoy them! The pictures are collected from selected artists and photographers who show and sell their work at Zazzle

Some day, I'd love take a cruise that stops at Kingston, the capital, on August 4, just to see for myself how Jamaicans celebrate their country's birthday. My daughter and I visited Grand Cayman on that crown colony's birthday, and enjoyed a very special day in the midst of the celebrations in Georgetown.

Nautical Fashions for Cruising

2011-07-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought of wearing nautical themed fashions or accessories when you go on a cruise? It's not so far fetched ...
For example, a gentleman mightwear a nautical themed tie to dinner one night. A lady might enjoy having an anchor pendant necklace.
Or, how about a cute T shirt or nautical outfit for your young cruiser?

Anchors Aweigh Necklace and Sensastion Stripe tie

Here are several sites you might enjoy. There are some nice ideas for nautical themed cruise wear and accessories on these three pages:

Nautical Kids Clothes and Cruise Wear

Nautical Jewelry and Sea Life Jewelry

Nautical Ties and Other Cruise Wear Accessories for Men

Last Week Was Quite a Week

2011-07-24T15:05:00.000-07:00

Space Shuttle Atlantis
(public domain image from NASA)

Last week was quite a week. Things were happening all over the globe, and not all of them pleasant. Last week, there were significant developments in manned space flightnature,in Nature , and sadly, in Norway.

MANNED SPACE FLIGHT

Space Shuttle Atlantis retured to earth for the last time. The good news is, she brought herself and her crew home safely. The bad news is that she'll never do it again. Nor will any other shuttle. NASA's manned space flight program has been scuttled. And along with it, thousands of jobs, and the space dominance of the U S of A. It was a sad day.

NATURE

We had THREE named storms at one point in the week: Tropical Storms Bret and Cindy in the Atlantic and Hurricane Dora in the Pacific. The good news is that NONE of them made landfall. The (maybe) not so good news is that it was a very active week for the tropics, and no one knows if this was a foreshadowing of things to come. The NHC and other organizations sure think it will be an active season. You can see their 2011 Hurricane Season Predictions here.

NORWAY

The Royal Palace in Oslo
was not attacked
(public domain photo)

There was horror and terror in a place that is usually known for its peaceful environment - Norway.
A madman set off a bomb in central Oslo then proceded to a youth camp being held on an island. There, dressed as a policeman, he shot and killed at least 84 young people.
There is NO reason for civilized human beings to behave this way towards one another. Unlike the work that NASA does, it's NOT rocket science. Just be nice to everyone.
Today, we are holding the people of Norway in our hearts. They have our deepest sympathies and most fervent prayers.

The past week was not one that will soon be forgotten for several reasons... but Norway is uppermost in our minds right now.

It's my sincere hope that the week ahead will bring different ... and much happier news.

Cruise Alert - NCL Files for IPO

2011-07-15T07:08:00.000-07:00

Soon, U.S. Wall Street investors will be able to buy stock in Norwegian Cruise Line. The company has filed for an Initial Public Offering to sell $250 million in common shares on the New York Stock Exchange. No word yet (that I saw) on what their symbol will be. (NCL is already in use by Nuveen Insured California Premium Income Municipal Fund.)

This will mean that the three main players in the U.S. cruise market will now be on the ticker.

The cruise line has said it also has plans for listing on the NASDAQ, as NCLH.

Wonder if NCL will be offering discounts or OBC's to stockholders?

Six Years Ago Today: Hurricane Dennis

2011-07-10T08:26:00.000-07:00

Six years ago today, Hurricane Dennis was assaulting Navarro Beach, Florida. Dennis was the first Major Hurricane to make landfall on our own shores during the record-setting 2005 Hurricane Season. There were 28 named storms that year - the most ever for a single season.

Hurricane name lists are on a six year cycle, so the 2011 Atlantic Hurricane names are the same ones that were used in 2005, except for the names of the five storms that were so devistating their names were retired for good.

2005 was also the year of Hurricane Katrina, and some may have forgotten the year, but no one has forgotten how horrifying she was. So many lives were changed . . .

So far, knock on wood, this year hasn't been a repeat of 2005, even though many of the names will be the same. On the same date in 2005, we were already up to the 'D' name on the alphabetical list. This year, we've only seen the 'A' storm - Arlene.

Word from the National Hurricane Center today is that "TROPICAL CYCLONE FORMATION IS NOT EXPECTED DURING THE NEXT 48 HOURS." Here's hoping our luck holds!

TS Arlene Heads for Mexico. Princess - not So Much.

2011-06-29T10:12:00.000-07:00

Arlene Heading for Mexico

Well. 2011 Atlantic Basin hurricane activity has started. Tropical Storm Arlene, is on her way to somewhere near Tampico, Mexico. The terrain around there is hilly to mountainous. Copious rainfall in such a region can mean life threatening flash flooding and even mudslides. Arlene is first on the list of 2011 Hurricane Names... let's hope we don't get too far through that list this hear.

Hurricane Hunters have been flying into the storm, and found maximum sustained winds of 50 mph this morning. It's expected to make landfall early tomorrow.

We are keeping the people of the Mexican states of Tamaulipas, Veracruz, San Luis Potosi, and Nuevo Leon, in our thoughts. There are Hurricane Watches and Tropical Storm Warnings posted for these area.

Princess - Not So Much

Meanwhile, in case you haven't heard, Princess Cruises has cancelled previously scheduled stops at Puerto Vallarta for the remainder of the year. This news came out a few days ago. The US State Department has a travel warning posted for the Mexican state of Jalisco, which includes Puerto Vallarto. The warning cites drug-related violence.

Mazatlan has seen its cruise ship port calls curtailed recently, as well.

So, if there is a Mexican Rivera cruise in your future, it would seem itinerary options are narrowing considerably.

RELATED ARTICLES:

Cruising in Hurricane Season

2011 Hurricane Predictions

Second Named Storm of EPAC Hurricane Season Strengthens

2011-06-20T12:26:00.000-07:00

Tropical Storm Beatriz is approaching hurricane strength off the southwestern coast of Mexico. A Hurricane Hunter aircraft is inside the system as I write this, and it would not be a surprise for them to find a hurricane.

Watches and warnings are posted for portions of the Mexican coast. Rainbands from the system are already affecting the coast, and tropical storm conditions are expected later this afternoon.

The National Hurricane Center is predicting rainfall of 6 to 12 inches (and as much as 20 inches in some areas), which could result in life threatening flash floods and mudslides.

We wish our neighbors in the affected Mexican states of Guerrero, Jalisco, Colima, and Michoacan the best, and will be thinking of them.

Meanwhile, for our cruising friends - at this point, there have been no announcements of itinerary changes as a result of (apparently soon to be Hurricane) Beatriz, but would it be well to stay aprised of the situation.

2011 EPAC Hurricane Season Journal

Hurricane Names

It's Hurricane Season and Cruise Deals Season

2011-06-02T14:07:00.000-07:00

Well, folks, the 2011 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season began yesterday. Hope everyone in or near a coastal area is prepared with their emergency supplies and evacuation plans.

Once again this year, I will have the Weather Widgets from wunderground.com posted on this blog, and will, from time to time, highlight any storms that are affecting cruise ships and/or cruise ports. This year, I've also set up a 2011 Hurricane Season Journal on a separate site, where I'll log each tropical depression, tropical storm, and hurricane, whether it affects cruises or not. You might want to access that page now, and save it to your favorites if you think you'll be interested.

For the cruising community, we know that hurricane season also means some of the best cruise deals of the year. So, if you haven't done so yet, here's a reminder that you might want to start looking for an attractive last minute deal from your favorite cruise line.

If you're planning your first hurricane season cruise - especially during the peak of the season, which includes August, September, and October - you might be interested in 10 Tips for Hurricane Season Cruising.

Don't be afraid to take advantage of some of the great deals you're sure to find. Chances are your cruise won't be affeted by a tropical weather system - but yes, it could. That's the chance you take by making the decision to cruise the Caribbean during hurricane season. If you are prepared to accept that risk in exchange for a great time for less money than you would pay other times of year, I'd say, "Go for it." But know the risks and what you can do to make sure you have a wonderful time no matter what might or might not happen. (That's what the above referenced article is about)

RELATED ARTICLES:

Hurricane Names for 2011

2011 EPAC Hurricane Season Journal

A NOAA Weather Radio Can Save Your Life

Pictures of Hurricanes and Other Storms

June is Coming and So Is Hurricane Season

2011-05-29T16:05:00.000-07:00

One of my very favorite months is nearly over, but another favorite one - June - is nearly here. June 1 is Wednesday, and that means Hurricane Season will be here. I've been busy writing a few articles about hurricane season over the past several weeks... One of them, about pictures of severe weather features art prints and other things with a hurricane or weather theme that you can buy.

Stormy Anastasia

by southeastimagery

It's amazing how much art and design has been inspired by something we live with every day - the weather. (Although, hopefully, we don't have to live with SEVERE weather on a daily basis!) The above art print is from that article, called Pictures of Hurricanes and Storm Pictues, and it features wall art, along with a variety of other consumer items designed by selected artists at Zazzle, and inspired by the weather.

Some of the other articles I've been working on are a little more serious in nature, and are geared to raising the awareness of the necessity to be prepared for what can happen during severe weather in general, but hurricanes in particular. Here's a list of those articles:

2011 Hurricane Season Predictions and 2010 Forecasting Accuracy
2011 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Names
Hurricane Preparedness - Your Roof
NOAA Weather Radios
2011 Hurricane Season Journal

That last one will be a journal I will keep and add to throughout the season.

You are welcome to read, and to comment on any of these articles that might interest you. I'd be SO pleased if you did!

Remember Them on Memoral Day

2011-05-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

The Memorial Day Weekend has begin. But, it's more than just a three day weekend... The REAL reason for Memorial Day is to honor those who have fallen in the service of their country. This Monday, please pause for a moment to remember those who died to ensure you have the freedom that you enjoy.

To read a little about the history of Memorial Day, and the proscribed way to commemorate our fallen heroes, visit Patriotic American Holidays - Memorial Day.

This reminder brought to you by

WePeople Gifts

Port Canaveral News - Tidbits from the Port

2011-05-13T13:07:00.000-07:00

Queen Victoria at Port Canaveral

Here are several news tidbits from Port Canaveral.

A VISIT FROM A QUEEN and AMERICAN HAMBURGERS for 3 BRITS
The Queen Victoria recently visited Port Canaveral. It was a pleasure to see one of Cunard's Queens, but mostly to finally meet a friend from England who I had 'known' as a fellow moderator for Cruise Line Fans forum. He and his party paid a visit to KSC, then lunched at the Cocoa Beach Pier. All three were eager to order a "real American hamburger." Once the meals arrived, they took pictures of them, so they could show the folks back home what a real burger looks like!

My plan had been to get a great photo of the Queen putting out to sea. Alas, that was not to be, as we were being assaulted by a wicked thunderstorm at sailing time. The above pic of the ship, berthed at the Royal Caribbean terminal, have to do.

MORE SHIPS? (Yes, please!)
Canaveral Port Authority Chief Executive Officer J. Stanley Payne recently told the Titusville Area Chamber of Commerce that he is " negotiating with major cruise line companies" in an effort to increase the number of cruise ships that will home port at Port Canaveral in the future. (Hooray, I say and I wish him much luck)

DISNEY SAILING FULL
The local media reports that the new Disney Dream is SOLD OUT through the fall, and that the line's other ships are booked at 95% of capacity through June, and over 80% through September. So, if you are thinking of sailing on a Disney ship, looks like you'd best plan ahead!

PHOTOS of CRUISE SHIPS and More
If you are just longing for your next cruise, perhaps for now, you'd enjoy feasting your eyes on some nice cruise related designs and photos of cruise ships from a hand-picked selection of Zazzle photograhers and designers. They're in a little article I've put together featuring wall art, iPad cases, and iPhone cases that should appeal to avid cruisers.

New in May: Pets at Sea from Royal Caribbean

2011-05-03T08:17:00.000-07:00

If you're cruising Royal Caribbean, and your party includes a child or two, get ready for their new "Pets at Sea" program, which the youngsters are going to LOVE!

Pets at Sea

Your child will get to choose from a variety of different species of pets (not-yet-stuffed animals), stuff it in a special 'stuffing machine,' dress it, and name it. And, here's really cool part - after attaching the animal to the stuffing machine to 'bring it to life,' they are given a small star. They make a wish, then tuck the star INSIDE the newly stuffed toy.

According to the cruise line, they'll be available fleetwide beginning this month.

Price? You can pre-order a pet with one outfit for $29.95 on Royal Caribbean's website. (with two outfits, the price is $42.90.) But, I'm sure there will be plenty available once you board.

Actually, it looks and sounds like fun, and I'm willing to bet that there will be a lot of adults who will want one, too.

Monday's Launch of Endeavour Scrubbed

2011-05-01T16:52:00.000-07:00

The shuttle Endeavour will NOT launch tomorrow. The next possible launch date is Sunday, May 8, which is also Mother's Day.

A Treat - and a Travel Alert

2011-04-26T07:37:00.000-07:00

Monarch of the Seas at Port Canaveral

Cruisers sailing on this Friday's sailing of The Monarch of the Seas may have an extra special treat, courtesy of NASA.

The Space Shuttle Endeavor is scheduled to lift off on its final mission - ever - at 3:47 pm. Aim to be on board by 2 pm at the latest for a premium view of an event of a lifetime. Be sure your camera is in your pocket, purse, or carry on. You won't want to miss the opportunity to capture this historic event.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Expect unprecedented traffic on your way to the port. If you are driving in the day of the cruise, be advised that you would be wise to allow an absolute minimum of two to three extra hours of drive time from any direction. And, truthfully, it's difficult to say if even that will be enough. The roads will be all jammed, especially the Beachline from the airport all the way to the port.

Port Canaveral to EXPAND with New Terminal, Berths, Dredging

2011-04-21T07:05:00.000-07:00

Mariner of the Seas at Terminal 10 (2004)

HooRay!!! Port Canaveral in about to go into expansion mode. Yesterday, the Port Authority gave their go-ahead for a new Cruise Terminal to accomodate the Carnival Ecstacy, and also a new berth at Terminal 10, which is where the Royal Caribbean ships currently dock. The Carnival Dream also uses Terminal 10, as do some other ships when making port calls here.

Now, here's a little tidbit that was only a mention in the article in Florida Today - also approved was a dredging project ". . . that will help the port accommodate the largest cruise ships."

Right now the three largest cruise ships that call Port Canaveral home are:

Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas - 154,407 g.t.; length-1112'; passenger capacity - 3646 - 4375
The Carnival Dream - 130,000 gt; length -1004'; passenger capacity - ~ 3600-4000
The Disney Dream - 130,000 g.t.; length - 1115'; passenger capacity - ~ 4000

Sure sounds like some real possibilities of good things to come for the Space Coast from the cruise industry!

More about Port Canaveral's Two Dreams.

Another Hurricane Season Approaches

2011-04-16T08:40:00.000-07:00

Hurricane Epsilon (2005) from space. (NASA public domain photo)

Unbelievably, the beginning of the 2011 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season is only 45 days away. This month, experts once again called for an above average season in terms of tropical activity, with a greater chance than last year of a US landfall.

HURRICANE SEASON for the Atlantic Basin: June 1 - November 30

Peak activity is usually August - October

Last year, Hurricane Alex didn't appear until almost the end of June. And, in 2007, Subtropical Storm Andrea was named on May 6! So, who knows when Arlene - the first name on this year's list - will arrive? No one, really.

The list of the names that will be used this year is the same list that was used for the hyperactive 2005 season, except for the FIVE names from that year that were retired. To see this years list, including the five new names, which ones they are replacing, and why, see Atlantic Basin 2011 Hurricane Names. Here's a hint: Hurricane Katrina.

Pre-season reminders:

1 - Check your supply of betteries.

2 - Make sure your NOAA Weather Alert Radio is in good working condition.

3 - Where are your important papers and data? Can you easily grab them for evacuation?

4 - Review your evacuation plans. Don't forget to include your pets!

5 - Check seasonal cruise prices. (It's often cheaper to cruise during peak hurricane season)

Wonder Crew Member Missing- confirmed

2011-03-24T13:12:00.000-07:00

Disney Cruises today confirmed that a female crew member has gone missing from the Disney Wonder. The woman, who had been employed by DCL since last year, didn't "return for her scheduled shift." She was assigned to the youth program, though the line has not said in what capacity.

A thorough search of the ship has been conducted, and the crew member's collegues have been interviewed.

At this point they are not ruling out the possibility that she went overboard.

The Wonder is currently sailing on a 7 night Mexican Rivera itinerary, and is due to return to Los Angeles on Sunday morning.

Legend of the Seas revised Itinerary (Japan Earthquake)

2011-03-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

Due to the situation in Japan, and in consideration of the damaged nuclear pants, Royal Caribbean has announced a revised itinerary for Saturday's sailing of the Legend of the Seas.

The ship will sail from Shanghai as schedued, but will now call at the following ports:

Cheju Island, South Korea on Sunday, March 20
Hong Kong, China (overnight) from 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 22 until midnight on Wednesday, March 23

According to the announcement on Royal Caribbean's website, guests who sail on the revised itinerary will be given an onboard credit, while those who opt out of the sailing will receive a full refund.

Ecstasy to Homeport at Port Canaveral

2011-03-13T09:14:00.000-07:00

Sailing from Port Canaveral by CruiseReady

The Carnival Ecstasy will be added to Port Canaveral's fleet of homeported cruise ships on November 7, 2011. This will mean that Carnival will be sailing three ships year-round from Florida's Space Coast. She'll be joining her sister antasy class ship, the Carnival Sensation, and the much larger and newer Carnival Dream.

This is good news for our area, and we need it, because of the wind-down of America's manned space-flight program at the cape, and the accompanying reduction of the work force and Kennedy Space Cener.

NEW ITINERARIES!

The Carnival Ecstasy will offer some new short (four and five night) cruise itineraries that cruisers should find interesting.

FOUR NIGHT itineraries will call at the ports of Nassau and either Half Moon Cay or Freeport, departing each Thursdays.

FIVE NIGHT cruises will visit Nassau, Freeport and either Half Moon Cay or Key West, sailing on various Mondays and Saturdays.

The community here will be pleased to welcome this new addition to our home fleet, and smile as we wish Bon Voyage to cruisers experiencing this "new" ship and her new itineraries.

For more about Port Canaveral and some of the cruise ships homeported there, see Two Dreams Come to Port Canaveral.

Additional articles on cruise ships and cruising

Thinking of Japan

2011-03-11T15:36:00.000-08:00

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Japan in this most difficult time. May you find comfort in one another and help from friends around the world.

For those who have friends and loved ones at sea right now, you will be relieved to know that it appears that all cruise ships at sea are safe. It's those on land who need our thoughts, prayers, and help right now.

Please see an article by Libby Zay, , Cruise Updates Following the Japan Earthquake and Hawaii Tsunami, for status reports from the major cruise lines.

A Cruising Lens of the Day on Squidoo

2011-03-04T14:18:00.000-08:00

Those interested in finding web articles about cruising might try surfing over to Squidoo. I've written a few articles there. Squidoo calls them 'lenses,' though. So, Here's a bit of an explanation about Squidoo for those who aren't familiar with it. And then, I have some big news about that. (For me, anyway)

(Surfer Squid courtesy of GeekGreek's Squidoo Graphics lens.)

Here's the scoop on Squidoo.

It's fun, but a lot of work. It's a platform for sharing your knowledge on any subject you choose. You do so by writing articles, called lenses, each addressing a focused topic. In that respect, a lens is like a blog entry, but it goes a lot farther, and has more permanence to it, and I like that.

You can join Squidoo, become a lensmaster, and write lenses too. There's even a way to earn a little money doing it. Or, you can just read what others have written, and participate by commenting, rating, and sharing the lenses that interest you.

Now, My Big News

So far, I've published 18 lenses, about half of them on cruising. That's not many in the world of Squidoo. "Giant Squids" have published at least 50, and many of them over five times that.

HOWEVER, in spite of my small stature there, this squid-of-few-lenses recieved a high honor on March 1st. My Picking the Best Cabin for Your Cruise lens was chosen as the Lens of the Day - out of the tens of thousands of lenses there!

I hope you have a moment to give it a read ... or at least a scan. There's a couple of polls you can vote in, and a place for your comments at the end, too.

Finally, an apology and word of explanation to my regular readers.

Between getting my feet wet at Squidoo, and tending to my hubbys needs during two (minor) eye surgeries, time has been limited. So, please accept my apologies for my lack of attention to Cruising Musings in the last couple of weeks.

No, I'm not abandoning blogging for Squidoo, just trying to find a balance. I know you are all very well aware that there's only so much time in an on-line day!

I'll be referencing some of my Squidoo lenses in future blog entries, too, from time to time. I'll be doing quite a few cruise related lenses, so it's all good!

Falmouth Finally Opens!

2011-02-18T05:29:00.000-08:00

The Port of Falmouth, Jamaica, has finally received its first ship. It's been a long time coming. The Voyager of the Seas called there yesterday.

Falmouth is on the north coast of Jamaica, to the east of Montego Bay. Find it on the above map by tracing down from the tail of the J in the word Jamaica. (Some great Maps of the Caribbean are avaiable at AllPosters.)

Although the real GRAND opening of the "Historic Falmouth Port" port won't be until March 22, when the huge Oasis of the Seas calls there, other ships will actually be visiting in the meantime.

Among the things to do there are riding a bamboo raft on the Martha Brae, and paying a visit to Great Hope House, which offers a variety of activities, and the Appleton Estate, where you can learn a little about making rum. The Dunns River Falls area, with which many cruisers are already familiar, is not far from Falmouth, either.

As more ships begin to call there, Cruising Musings will be interested to hear the reaction of cruise visitors to this long-awaited new port of call.

DUNNS RIVER FALLS PERSONALIZED NOTECARDS and MAGNETS, available at TropiCards:

Announcing: Disney Dream Sail-A-Bration at Port Canaveral

2011-01-18T15:52:00.000-08:00

Although she's actually been here for over a week already we're still EIGHT DAYS AWAY from the day of Port Canaveral's big Sailabration for the new Disney Dream. More about that in a moment, but first - if you're hungering for some Disney Dream eye candy, the Orlando Sentinel has put together a nice album. Here's a link: PICTURES: Disney Dream cruise ship

Now, on to news of Port Canaveral's
Live the Dreams Sail-A-Bration

Mark your calendar for
Wednesday, Jan 26, 4 to 6 pm

The Live the Dreams Sail-A-Bration will take place at Jetty Park. For free parking, just follow the signs to Cruisse Terminal 4. The Port Authority promises "family fun and excitement," as well as a chance to win prizes as the community wishes Bon Voyage to the Disney Dream as she departs Port Canaveral that evening. Although there have already been pre-inaugural sailings, this will officially be her 'maiden voyage' from her home port.

Tise attending are asked to please bring a nonperishable food item donation for the Central Brevard Sharing Center.

I was there for the Sail-A-Bration for the Carnival Dreamm a while back, and am hoping to be able to be there for this Dream's party as well. If I make it, I'll try to get some photos for you!

8 days and counting!

Awards

2011-01-08T14:09:00.000-08:00

A quick bit of bragging. As many of my readers know, I have a design gallery of cruise themed gifts and personalized cruise gear on Zazzle. Today, one of my designs received a TBA from Zazzle, which stands for Today's Best Award.

This Mug received a Today's Best Award:

Anchors Aweigh Personalized Travel Mug

by CruiseReady

Please stop by my gallery - CruiseReady on Zazzle - if you have a moment. I would really appreciate it! You are more than welcome to leave a comment while you are there. I would love to know that you visited.

Separately, I have recently been given the Stylish Blogger Award. I'll be writing a little more about this award in the coming days, but for now, I would like to thank Lora Severson, for giving it to me, and suggest that you also browse through some of her beautiful work at Lora Severson Photography.

Earth's Magnetic Shift Forces Closure of Tampa Airport Runway

2011-01-07T11:05:00.000-08:00

It has been reported that the main runway at Tampa International Airport (in Tampa, Florida) must be closed down until January 13.
The reason? It seems that a 40 mile shift in the earth's magnetic pole has occurred This naturally occurring shift has apparently tilted magnetic N more towards Russia.
This means the runway in question must be renumbered. For navigational purposes, the runway's number is consistent with its longitudinal orientation, which, of course, changed with the shift.
The old designation of 18R/36L, for 180 degres (from th north) or 360 degrees (from the north) will be changed to 19R/1L. This requires repainting those huge numbers you see on the runway. And thanks to this event, now you know what those numbers actually mean.

Other runways will be closed to be 'rejiggered' later in the month.

And yes, it's absolutely necessary, since worldwide navigaation is based on latitude, longitude, and the magnetic poles.

New Year - New Ships

2011-01-01T06:36:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, fellow cruisers!

May your 2011 be filled with health, prosperity, time well spent with loved ones,

and at least a few happy days at sea.

What's new in cruising for the New Year? Well, one thing is that we can look forward to welcoming a few brand new ships into the world of cruising in the months ahead. Here's a quick run-down of expected new launches:

JANUARY

The maiden voyage of Oceania's Marina departs Barcelona for Miami on the 22nd. A Regatta class ship, but a bit larger than her sisters, at 66,000 gross registered tons, she'll carry 1250 passengers.

The Disney Dream will arrive at her home part of Port Canaveral for her inagural sailing on the 26th. She's the first in the newest (bigger) class of ships for Disney Cruises. (130,000 tons; 4000 pax)

APRIL
German line Aida Cruises launches Aida Sol. (71,000 tons; 2050 pax)

MAY
Carnival debuts their 23rd ship, the Carnival Magic, sister to the Deam. After a season of sailing from Barcelona, she'll arrive at her new homeport of Galveston in November. (130,000 tons; 3690 pax)

JUNE
The Seabourn Quest, new from the Yachts of Seabourn will begin sailing the Mediterranean and Greek Isles in mid to late June. (332,000 tons; 450 pax)

JULY

Costa brings us their sixteenth ship, the Costa Favolosa, sailing the Med fromVenice, beginning on the 7th. (114,500 tons; 3000 pax)

A new Solstice Class ship, the Celebrity Silhouette embarks the 23rd from Hamburg to Rome on her inaugural, then sails the Med and Middle East before coming to Bayonne, NJ in the fall. (122,000 tons; 2850 pax)

Happy New Year from Cruising Musings!

In this New Year, may we all

Live, Love, Cruise, and be Happy!

Take advantage or Cruise Ready Store's New Year Sale - discounts up to 20%.
Through Jan 4. See Store home page for details.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T03:01:00.000-08:00

Shopper Specials- 2 Days Only

2010-12-09T01:50:00.000-08:00

Today and tomorrow only at CruiseReadyStore.com!

(December 9 and 10)

Cruise Ready Store Shopper Specials

10% to 20% OFF your Entire Order -storewide!

(Pus FREE Standard shipping to U.S. Destinations)

THREE different discount levels, with a coupon for each:

1 - Spend $25.00 to $49.99. Use code MERRY25 at checkout for 10% OFF your order.

2 - Spend $50.00 to $74.99. Use code MERRY50 at checkout for 15% OFF your order.

3 - Spend $75.00 or more. Use code MERRY75 at checkout for 20% OFF your order.

The more you spend, the more you save! It's a great way to save on cruise gear, travel accessories, and cruise mementos and memorabilia for the cruise-lover on your gift list.

MERRY CHRISTMAS from Cruise Ready Store,

and Cruise Ready Store's "sister" stores:

CruiseReady on Zazzle

TropCards

H2Owater

Today's Specials at CruiseReady on Zazzle

2010-12-06T03:02:00.000-08:00

Cruisers - today is the day to order that shirt you've been wanting from CruiseReady on Zazzle! Monday, December 6. Take advantage of these great Zazzle specials!

Jingle Sales – $6 Off T-Shirts & Aprons + Free Ship on ALL $35+ Orders! Use Code: JINGLESALE41 TODAY ONLY!

LOTS to choose from ... Sizes for Men, Women, Children, and infants/toddlers ... Many styles and designs ...

Here's a sampling

1 . 2- . 3

1 - Hey Captain ... 2 - Cruising Multicolor ... 3 - Ahoy

4- . 5- . 6-

4 -Parrots of the Caribbean 5- Crossed Palms Group Cruise Tee 6 - Cruising Multicolor

7 - . 8 - 9 -

7 - Ocean Waves Custom Shirt ... 8 - Rather Be Cruising ... 9 - Upgrade Fairy T shirt

Specials valid at all Zazzle stores, including TropiCards and H2Owater, too!

Free Stocking Stuffers -Two More Days

2010-11-30T06:23:00.001-08:00

An executive level decision has been made at Cruise Ready Store! It has been decided to extend last weekend's Free Stocking Stuffer specials through tomorrow - Wednesday, December 1. (And, don't forget about our FREE SHIPPING)
Here are the stocking stuffer specials:

1- FREE Plastic Luggage Tags
with the purchase of any of these Travel Bags

2 -FREE Travel Sewing Kit

with the purchase of any of these Evening Bags

It's like getting a free stocking stuffer when you buy a qualifying bag!

Specials valid through Wednesday, December 1.

Now, if you don't find what you want at Cruise Ready Store, then remember that there are some great Blitzen Deals today over at Zazzle, and they are good at CruiseReady on Zazzle, where you'll find lots of cruise themed gifts and personalized cruise gear.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T06:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving from http://www.cruisereadystore.com/

Thanksgiving Weekend Specials:

1- FREE Plastic Luggage Tags with the purchase of any of these Travel Bags
2 -FREE Travel Sewing Kit with the purchase of any of these Evening Bags

Specials valid Thursday, November 25 through Monday, November 29

Swirling Sea Star

2010-11-22T07:36:00.000-08:00

Want something cool and Cruise-y to hang on your Christmas tree this year?

Swirling Sea Star Ornament by h2oWater

Notice the pattern on the front of the star. What do you think it is? It's the churning water of a cruise ship's wake!

Now, you know what it is, but guests at your place might think it's just an interesting swirl of colors... until you tell them. (Or, you could play a guessing game with them!)

You can put the date on the other side.
The hanging ornament is from the H2Owater Zazzle Gallery, but other cruise themed ornaments are available at CruiseReady on Zazzle.

Election Day Special at CRS Ends Tonight - Free Shipping This Week at Zazzle

2010-11-03T15:19:00.000-07:00

{REMINDER}

Two specials - One at CruiseReadyStore, and one for Zazzle shoppers.

1 - Today is the last day of the ELECTIOIN DAY SPECIAL at http://www.cruisereadystore.com/. Get 10% OFF your order of $25.00 or more when you use coupon code VOTE at checkout. Shown at left: Blue Baseball Style Cap with Yellow-Gold Anchor. This offer valid at Cruise Ready Store

2 - FREE ECONOMY SHIPPING all this week ) on orders over $50.00 at Zazzle. (ends Sunday) To qualify, one or more Zazzle products must be purchased with a net sale price equal to or greater than 50.00 dollars. The coupon code FREESHIPFORU must be entered during checkout to receive the offer. Shown: Nassau Harbor Personalized Stein . This offer good at TropiCards, CruiseReady on Zazzle, and other Zazzle stores.

Cruise Ready Store Election Day Special

2010-11-01T05:05:00.000-07:00

Good Morning, and Happy November!

Tomorrow, November 2, is election day in the U.S., and CruiseReadyStore.com would like to remind everyone to Vote.

So, I thought it would be nice to have a little Election Day Special as a patriotic gesture. Here it is:

Election Day Special

November 1 - 3

Take 10% OFF any order over $25.00 using coupon code VOTE at checkout

at http://www.cruisereadystore.com/

Store Reminder

2010-10-30T09:38:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that I am gone cruising, so I am unable to ship fro CruiseReadyStore.com rght now. For this reason, the purchasing function is currently disabled. However - my Zazzle design galleries are open for business,and you can shop there until CRS re-opens on Monday.

CruiseReady on Zazzle is OPEN - TropiCards is OPEN - and WePeople is OPEN.

Got Bumper Stickers?

2010-10-27T16:08:00.000-07:00

CruiseReady on Zazzle has cruise bumper stickers for you! Put them on your car ... put them on hard-sided suitcases to make them easy to find on crowdedairport luggage carousels, or at disembarkation.

There are some other uses for cruise bumper stickers ... bulletin boards ... covering up a scratched area on a filing cabine, or other metal object ...

Can you think of some uses for cruise bumper stickers?

Cruise Tote Bags

2010-10-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

Ahoy Name Tote by CruiseReady

Looking for something special to take along on your next cruise? How about a cruise themed tote bag with your name on it? You can select most of the designs in a number of different sizes and styles, starting with budget totes at around $11.00. The Ahoy Jumbo tote above is 20"w x 14.5" h x 4.5"d. And, for the AHOY design, as well as several others, there are even matching keds shoes if you really want to do it up right!

Life Ring Personalized Bag and Ocean Waves Personalized Bag

Customizable bags for Group or Family Cruises can have your family or group's name on them, if you like, along with your cruise date and ship. Customization is as easy as selecting your design, and filling in the blanks with your desired information. And, if you need a great reusable souvenir for everyone in your party, bulk discounts start at at just 11 bags.

Rather Be Cruising Name tote and Parrots of the Caribbean Name tote

You'll find a variety of bag designs to choose from at CruiseReady on Zazzle, including some that would be great for everyday use. Again, you can make most any of them especially yours by personalizing the one you chose with your name or other special text.

Going Cruising

2010-10-20T07:40:00.000-07:00

Soon, I'll be Gone Cruising!!!

Cruise Ready Store will be closed fromt 10 am (eastern time) THIS FRIDAY, Oct. 22, until the morning of Monday, Nov. 1. You'll still be able to browse the CRS selection of travel accssories, cruise gear, and cruise memorabilia during this time, but the purchase function will be disabled.

Sea Witch Custom Magnet by CruiseReady

My design galleries on Zazzle will remain open during this time, with the same high quality products, professional printing, and reliable shipping, Please feel free to visit them! Here's a little bit of info about each one:

Gallery #1 - CruiseReady on Zazzle - For CRUISERS

Cruise themed gifts and personalized cruise gear.

At Cruise Ready on Zazzle, Cruise Shirts and Hats come in both general and customizable designs. The Fun buttons and magnets have been good sellers lately, as have the cutomizable name badges! And you'll still find a selection of cruise bags, many of which are designed for easy customization. Don't forget to check out my special sections for Red Hatters, and for the Cruiser In Training, or cruising kids

LEFT - One of the best-selling mousepads, from the Mousepads and Mugs section of the gallery.

WHAT'S NEW - In the last month or so, (along other things) I've added new items in Miscellaneous Cruise gifts, a few new bumper stickers, plus a whole new line of Stateroom Door Markers.

Gallery #2 - Tropicards - All Occasion CARDS and GIFTS

TropiCards offers customizable cards and matching gifts for different occasions, some with matching postage. An example is the Nassau Harbor card (from the Name Your Ocasion collecton ), which can be customized on the front with any occasion, and personalized inside with your own special message. You'll find coffee mugs, Steins, key chains, magnets, and buttons to match, too.  Look into my Hot Folks cards and gifts for some holiday gift-giving ideas.

My newst line at TropiCards is Masterpiece Magnets. They're designed to help you display the latest Masterpieces of your kids, grandkids, nieces, nephews, and others, whether those masterpieces are artwork, awards, schoolwork or other accomplishments. A good way to let them know you recognize their efforts.


Gallelry #3 - WePeople - Patriotic Gear and Gifts

Products from WePeople include cups, shirts, hats, mousepads, totes, magnets, buttons, bumper stickers, keychains, and more with patriotic images and messages. A few are customizable with name, or event information. If you like American Flags, Eagles, stars and stripes, and other patriotic things, look here! A good percentage of the WePeople designs will appeal to those with a slightly conservative bent, so if that's your political orientation, you might really like this gallery!

Huge (4") American Flag Button by WePeople

Please bookmark any of the above galleries that interest you, so that you can come back often... new items are added to one or another of them frequently.

Mark Your Territory at Sea

2010-10-10T05:35:00.000-07:00

As I wrote in an earlier blog entry, my dear one always, but always,has a problem remembering his stateroom (cabin) number when we cruise. At one point, he had developed a nasty little habit of writing down the number - on his hand! (Men- what can I say?) I told you my solution was to put an attractive magnet or even a custom cruise magnet on our cabin door as a marker for him. We've done this on a number of occasions now, and it works like a charm!

I'm guessing he might not be the only one with that problem. And it will only get worse, as cruise ships get bigger and bigger... and the hallways with their rows of identical cabin doors stretch farther and farther.

So, I thought . . . Wouldn't it be a great idea to have magnets designed specifically as markers for cabin doors? Yep. So, Stateroom Door Markers became my latest design project. The first designs have now been added to my collection of cruise themed buttons, badges, and magnets in my design gallery at CruiseReady on Zazzle.

Now, of course, you could use any magnet to mark your cabin door... and there are lots of cruise themed magnets to choose from in my gallery - both fun magnets, and customizable cruise magnets that (like the cruise name badges) you can personalize with your own cruise information. But, now, there are cruise cabin door markers, too. Some are very generic, like the This is OUR DOOR one, while there are others you can personalize with your name or names. There's even a special one for honeymooners.

Maybe there's one there that just needs to go on your stateroom door for your next cruise. Look and see! And, please, feel free to leave a comment - either here, or at CruiseReady on Zazzle.

I Heart CocoCay buttons from Zazzle.com

2010-10-06T15:49:00.000-07:00

I Heart CocoCay buttons from Zazzle.com

It's the Month of THE SUN

2010-10-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

October is Sun Month at Port Canaveral! Yes, friends and neighbors, the Sun will be shining here, no matter how many clouds might be in the sky.

Why is that?

Because The Sun is coming - the Norwegian Sun, that is!

Yes, beginning the middle of this very month, there will be a new ship calling Port Canaveral HOME. For the first time in 11 years, Norwegian Cruise Line will homeport a vessel here at Port Canaveral. The Sun will be 'wintering' here for at least the next two years... She'll spend October to April plying the waters of the Eastern and Western Caribbean, with weekly Saturday turnarounds at our fair port. (The remainder of the year, she sails a Baltic Capitals itinerary.)

So, get ready, Port Canaveral, because:

HERE COMES THE SUN!
(Dah-duh-dah-duh)

This blog entry brought to you by
Norwegian Cruise Line Mementos at Cruise Ready Store

Isobel Peachey Paints Her Majesty The Queen

2010-09-21T16:29:00.000-07:00

Just now, I am trying hard to imagine what it might feel like to be in Isobel Peachey's shoes, and I honestly can't get there. See the painting above? It was unvieled today. Isobel painted it, thus becoming, at 31, the youngest woman ever to be commissioned to paint a portrait of Her Majesty.

Imagine, if you will, yourself a young artist... having won some awards, and enjoyed some success ... but not enough to have your own studio. You are still painting in your "Mum's attic."

Then, you are intereviewed by someone from the famous Cunard Line about how you might "approach an important commission." And the next thing you know, you have been selected to paint a portrait that is to hang in the Grand Lobby of the new Cunard ocean liner, Queen Elizabeth. And the subject of the portrait? It is Her Majesty The Queen, Herself.

The new portrait was revealed to the press today. Is it not stunning? Isobel, your name is made!

On October 11th, The Queen will officially name the new ship, and Miss Peachey's painting will be on board, waiting to be enjoyed by legions of cruise passengers over many a year to come.

Visit the artist's website here: http://isobelpeachey.weebly.com/index.html

Cruise Ship Cabin Door Markers

2010-09-10T16:17:00.000-07:00

Personalized DCL Cruise Magnet by CruiseReady

When hubby and I go cruising, one of us always seems to have a problem remembering our cabin number. (HINT: It's not me!) My solution: I put a little magnet on our cabin door as a 'marker' for him. They are a big help to him during the cruise, and we have a nice, inexpensive cruise souvenir afterwards. You can buy my custom cruise magnets at CruiseReady on Zazzle, and have them printed with your own cruise information. (There are matching pin-on name badges, too)

Ocean Waves Custom Cruise Magnet and Cruising to The Bahamas magnet

You can customize these magnets with the name of your group or family, an individual's name, and cruise info (ship, dates). If you're not cruising with a group or ffamily gathering, you might substitute other words instead of a group name, like "Sailing at last!" or "Ahoy, Matey" or "Our Very First Cruise" or "We Love Cruising" ... or ... well, you get the idea.

Crossed Palms Cruise Magnet and Fun Cruise Personalized Magnet lg rnd

They come in a bunch of different designs, all available in one square size and several round sizes, and they make a real nice little dated souvenir. Yes, you can evn order just one customized item. And yes, if you're ordering for a group or family, there are discounts for bulk/volume orders, starting at just 10 magnets, or 10 name badges. They're profesionally printed, and magnets and pin-back buttons are usually ready to ship within 24 hours.

Win a Cruise on Radiance of the Seas

2010-09-08T16:33:00.000-07:00

Here's another opportunity to win a free cruise. This one is a four nighter on the Radiance of the Seas, a real favorite of many Royal Caribbean fans. The contest for the free cruise is from Cruise Elite, Inc. of Ormand Beach, FL, and you need to do two simple things to enter:

1 - Go to Cruise Elite's Facebook page, and click on the LIKE button at the top of the page. According to the rules, the winner must ". . . be a 'fan' of Cruise Elite, Inc. on facebook at time of drawing ."

2 - Fill out the entry form on the Cruise Elite Website.

The drawing will be held at noon on September 28, aso enter by the 27th!

PRIZE: Cruise for two on the Radiance of the Seas (cruise only)
CRUISE DATE: January 13, 2011 (Sailing from Tampa)
See website for additional details and complete rules.

I'm betting these folks will get a good number of entries, given the popularity of the Radiance of the Seas. She's a well-loved ship!

BTW- The solarium on the Radiance is the photo for one of the months on my 2010 - 2011 Cruise Lover's Calendar, available at CruiseReady on Zazzle.

Danielle, Earl Force Itinerary Changes for Cruises

2010-08-28T07:38:00.001-07:00

Graphic from NOAA / NHC

Bermuda, and most of the Northern Leeward Islands are under Tropical Storm Watches, which means the closing of cruise ports in those areas. Cruise itineraries are being affected, and the first announcment of changes has come - from Norwegian Cruise Line.

NCL has posted that he Norwegian SPIRIT will tentatively arrive at Bermuda a day late; the Norwegian EPIC will sail to the western rather than the eastern Caribbean; and the cruise line is considering a possible itinerary change for the Norwegian DAWN, as well.

Announcements of changes by other lines are likely forthcoming. Check with the cruise line websites for subserquent news, or log on to http://www.cruiselinefans.com/ , and check the forums for individual cruise line, or see the DANIELLE, EARL- Cruise Line Updates thread on the Hurricane Watch forum.

While a delayed arrival at, or the missing of a port, on a cruise can be a bit disappointing, Cruising Musings is mindful that having your HOME affected by a tropical system can be a lot more than a minor disappointment. Please keep those in Bermuda, and especially the Antilles in your thoughts over the next couple of days.

This update brought to you by

Cruise Ready Store and CruiseReady on Zazzle

Tropical Updates on CRS Facebook Page

2010-08-24T08:08:00.000-07:00

There is a LOT happening in the tropics right now, and I am posting frequent updates on Cruise Ready Store's Facebook page. If you are on facebook (sin't everyone?) then, you may want to click the LIKE button on the Cruise Ready Store Facebook Page so that you will get the updates.

Most importantly, no land masses OR cruise itineraries are threatened by Danielle. Frank may mess a little with Mexican Rivera cruising, but there is no official word SO FAR of any changes from the cruise lines. If and when I hear of any, I'll post them on the above-linked facebook page. You can also get detailed info on Danielle, Frank, and their infant cousin, including any affected cruise itineraries / ports on the Hurricane Watch forum at Cruise Line Fans.

Here's a brief summary of the current situation in the tropics:

HURRICANE DANIELLE: Still far out to sea. She HAD winds of 100 mph, but has encountered some less favorable conditions, and is now a Category One Hurricane, with 80 mph winds. Restrengthening and a NW turn expected.

TROPICAL STORM FRANK continues to run along the SW coast of Mexico, but remains far enough off shore that watches and warnings have been cancelled, although his maximum sustained winds are now up to 65 mph.

A NEW SYSTEM that has come off the coast of Africa has just begun its trek across the Atlantic, but is already welll organized, and will probably become Tropical Depression Seven very shortly.

The Tropics Are Heating Up!

2010-08-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

Peak hurricane season is here, and the tropics are letting us know it.

Tropical Storm Danielle- 08/23/10 - photo by NOAA

Tropical Storm Danielle is strengthening in the Tropical Atlantic, and may be a hurricane before she makes a predicted turn to the Northwest in the next couple of days. If she turns sooner, rather than later, she'll be "going fishing," missing land completely. If the turn comes later than expected, Bermuda will need to batten down the hatches, something they are very good at doing.. UPDATE 8/23/10 : Danielle became a hurricane at 5 PM today

In the Pacific, Tropical Storm Frank is making his way along the coastline of Mexico, and the Mexican government has issued tropical storm warnings from Lagunas de Chacahua to Zihuatanejo. The coastal area from Zihuatanejo to Pumta San Telmo is under a Tropical Store Watch. Itineries for Mexican Rivera cruises are likely to be affected.

Meanwhile, in the far eastern Atlantic, a new weather system has just moved off the coast of Africa, and the NHC has already upped the chances for its development to 40%.

If you're cruising this hurricane season, be prepared! Arrive a day early at your port of departure, take along your favorite motion sickness remedy, be prepared for possible changes in your cruise itinerary, and make sure your plans for post-cruise travel are flexible enough to allow changes in time, date, or point of departure. For more detailed tips on cruising during hurricane season, see Special Notes on Cruising During Hurricane Season near the bottom of the New Cruiser Tips page at Cruise Ready Store.

CRS Re-Opens, TD 6 forms in the Central Atlantic

2010-08-22T11:48:00.000-07:00

Good news! Cruise Ready Store has re-opened after our brief summer hiatus. I hope this little interruption did not cause an inconveniance for anyone.

In othernews, Tropical Depression Number Six has formed in the Central Atlantic. The weather system is currently 600 miles West of the Cape Verde Islands, with top winds of 35 miles perhour, and is moving Northwest. The Depression IS expected to strengthen, with the NHC currently calling for it to reach category 2 strength by Friday. While it's still early to speculate on either landfall or effecct on cruise itineraries, it is worth noting that most of the computer models are favoring a track that takes it out to sea at this point. Let's hope that that is the scenario that ends up playing out.

Tea Party at Sea

2010-08-18T16:48:00.000-07:00

Tie for formal night on the Tea Party at Sea Cruise

You can find a theme cruise for just about anything these days... from Neil Diamond to scrapbooking to Nascar to Ancient Civilizations to Baseball to the Tea Party. Tea Party? Yep. You read it right.

There was a blog entry recently on the Ship Critic blog about a criuse coming up in on the Liberty olf th Seas, called the "Tea Party at Sea," and hosted by World Net Daily. It features a "special on-board program devoted to covering a broad range of conservative topics" If you want to get in on the Tea Party at Sea, and hear and hob-nob with such conservative notables as Alan Keys, Dr. Jerome Corsi, Joseph Farah, Aaron Klien, and Anm Colter, check out Tea Party at Sea for more details.

If you're tea party-ing at sea, or even if you won't be at sea, but might be sipping a little tea, you might be in need of some special cruise gear. like a hat, shirt, or button sporting an approriate slogan. , I guess it won't surprise you to find I know a placr to find a few of those items, will it? The place is WePeople, where there's a growing selection of patriotic and conservative themed products ...

Swimming with Stingrays Excursions

2010-08-13T17:17:00.000-07:00

Stingrays are magnificent creatures... gracefully gliding through the sea much like huge birds glide aloft on air currents. Oh, they are truly are fascinating! As are Eeagle Rays and Manta Rays.

So far, I've been fortunate to "swin with rays" in at least five different locations. If you've never done it, it's a real thrill, and I hope I can help you decide where's the best location for you.

First- Grand Turk. I'd recommend this one for the faint of heart - those who are not really sure they want to actually swim with the creatures, but would like to see and touch them in a fairly safe environment. The stingray encounter portion of the excursion was just that. The group stood shallow water at a beach on Gibb's Cay, while theh guide 'summomed' rays. He then held one, and allowed each participant who desired to do so to touch, feed, and kiss it. A very tame time was had by all.

At Grand Cayman, the experience is a bit more intreactive, but still closely supervised. A really GOOD one for first-timers! I recommend Native Way excursions. On a sandbar, the water depth varies, but is shallow enough for an adult to stand. Activities include supervised feeding, holding and kissing the rays, as well as a group 'back massage' from a ray, quite a tactile experience. There is a little opportunity to swim around, if you take the initiative on your own. This "Swim" is the best known. It's been going on for so long that rays there associate the 'sound' of boat motors with food, flocking to the sandbar when a boat approaches.

In Antigua, there's a very diferent swim... way out in the water, but in a very large area contained by a fence. As in Grand Cayman, you are taken there by boat,and you can also participate in a supervised encounter, but there is also ample opportunity for you to freely swim and snorkel within the large, fenced area. this was the location wher I first watched rays go through the process of burying themselves in the sand... fascinating!

Head to Nassau, in The Bahamas for the best of all worlds. (my humble opinion) There, you'll also find an extremely large enclosed area at the edge of an island. Water depth starts off very shallow, and graduate to maybe 15 feet. The rays, which are captive and de-barbed, get the whole area, but the humans are given 'markers' beyond which they may NOT swim. You can freely swim and snorkel up to the markers. The rays will go beyond those markers when they are tired of you! There's also opportunity for (very) shallow water touching and feeding, which is supervissd.

On your own with Rays in the Wild.... OH! this one is a true thrill. If you are adventurouus to snorkel in the right places on your own, you might just encounter Stingrays, Manta Rays, and EagleRays. Really the best if you are an excerinced snorkeler, a strong swimmer, and love adventure. At the top of this post is a photo of an Eagle Ray that I encountered while solo snorkling off Royal Caribbean's CocoCay. Boy, was she beautiful... and FAST.

Where was YOUR most enjoyable Stingray swim? Or are you still looking forward to your first? If you are, this is something you really MUST make sure is on your official LIST, in my opinion!

NOTE: The "Swimming with Stingrays" products pictured in this post (and other stingray products) are available at CruiseReady on Zazzle.

Shop My Zazzle Galleries During Temporary CRS Closure

2010-08-10T09:17:00.000-07:00

As of Noon today, Cruise Ready Store will be closed for about 11 days. You'll still be able to browse the CRS selection of travel accssories, cruise gear, and cruise memorabilia during this time, but the purchase functiion will be disabled. CRS will re-open for purchases by Sunday the 22nd.

My design galleries on Zazzle are unaffected by this temporary CRS closing, so please feel free to visit them in the meantime. Here's a little bit of info about each one:

Gallery #1 - CruiseReady on Zazzle - For CRUISERS

You can find cruise gear, and other cruise themed gifts at Cruise Ready on Zazzle. For group or family cruises, there are Customizable name badges to which you can add your group' or family's name, and cruise information, in addition to individual names, if desired, and there are a number of different designs available. There are some great cruise themed totes, as well - many , like the Ahoy Matey one at right, with an option to personalize with your name, and even some with cruise info customization options. Also : shirts, hats, cups, mousepads, magnets, bumper stickers, and more.

Gallery #2 - Tropicards - All Occasion CARDS and GIFTS

TropiCards offers a selection of customizable cards and matching gifts for different occasions, some with matching postage. The most popular item there? Probably a toss-up between some of my Hot Folks produts and my Pirate Party Invitations and matching items, which feature a photo of a 'pirate ship' anchored off Grand Cayman. Available in three different color schemes - purple, blue, or green. There are also matching postage stamps, envelope seals or stickers, and magnets that make neat little party favors.

Gallelry #3 - WePeople - Patriotic Gear and Gifts

Products from WePeople feature cups, shirts, hats, mousepads, totes, cards and more with patriotic images and messages. A few are customizable with name, or event information. Now... fair warning - a pretty sizable number of the designs there will appeal to those with a slightly conservative bent, so if that's your political orientation, you might really like this gallery! If you like American Flags, Eagles, stars and stripes, and other patriotic things, look here.

I'd just love it if you would bookmark any of the above galleries that interest you, so that ayou can come back often... new items are added to one or another of them frequently.

Note on Store Schedule

2010-08-07T09:37:00.000-07:00

Temporary closing schedule for Cruise Ready Store

Does not affect CruiseReady On Zazzle.

NOTE: Cruise Ready Store will close at noon on Tuesday, August 10, and will re-open on the 22nd. During this time, you will be able to browse my selection of cruise gear and cruise mementos. However, during this time, the purchase function will be disabled.

Bon Voyage to Me T Shirt from CruiseReadyStore

This temporary closing schedule is for Cruise Ready Store only, and does not affect my gallery of cruise themed gear and gifts at CruiseReady on Zazzle, which will be open and functioning normally.

I'd Rather Be Cruising personalized canvas tote

by CruiseReady On Zazzle

Tropical Storm Colin Regenerates, Heads for Bermuda

2010-08-05T15:08:00.001-07:00

TROPICAL STORM COLIN has regenerated, with sustained winds of 45 mph, gusting to 55 mph. It is now several hundred miles south of Bermuda, moving NW at about 19 mph.

The Goverenment of Bermuda has issued TROPICAL STORM WARNINGS for all of BERMUDA. The storm will begin affecting Bermuda soon, and some ships' itineraries may be altered slightly. Lines currently sailing to Bermuda include NCL, Royal Caribbean, Holland America, and Celebrity.

The storm is predicted to be passing over or near Bermuda sometime Saturday, but the island will begin feling Colin's effects before then, and could begin closing its ports by Friday.

This Tropical Weather Watch brougt to you by

CruiseReadyStore Travel Accessories

Update on tropical system Colin and CRS

2010-08-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

Good News!
Colin has become a remnant low. However, he still retains gale force winds of 40 mph. Without a defined center, the prospects of a strong tropical storm hitting the Lesser Antilles and / or Puerto Rico has diminished. Quite dqually weather might still be associated with the system when it arrives in their vacinity, however.

Now, for the potentially Bad News:
In about five days, the remants of Colin will be somewhere off the southeast coast of the United States. There, it will find more favorable conditions, and could potentially regenerate.... So, the bottom line is that we may or may not have heard the last of the system that was briefly Tropical Storm Colin. Stay tuned.

And now - a note for Cruise Ready Store fans and shoppers:
Cruise Ready Store will be closed for annual vacation time from Tuesday afternoon, August 10, through Saturday, August, 21. CRS will be open for browsing only during that time, with no purchase function availale.
My gallery at Cruise Ready on Zazzle will remain unaffected by CRS vacation time.

Tropical Storm Colin Debuts

2010-08-03T03:57:00.000-07:00

Tropical Storm Colin, the third named storm of the 2010 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season, has formed in the tropical Atlantic.

As of 5 am, when Colin was named, he was about about 945 miles east of the lesser antilles, and barreling WNW at 23 mph. The current forecast track calls for the storm's intnsity to increase from its current 40 mph maximum sustained winds to about 60 mph, and make a right turn in a couple of days. This turn would be good news for the Lesser Antillies and Puerto Rico, both of which are just out of the NHC's famous cone at this time. Those living inu th islands are cautioned to monitor the system carefully for changs in the track. A shift to the left could put them in the cone, and we all kow that shifts can and do occur.

As for cruising intrests . . . at the very least, take along your favorite sea sickness remedy if you are cruising soon. (This is always true durig hurricane season.) And keep an eye out for possible port closings in the next week or so. Nothing is certain yet, but I'm posting the NHC's chart of Tropical Storm Force Wind speed Probabilities. It shows that as of this morning, anything from the Antillies to Bermuda, and surrounding seas could feel the affects Colin in th coming days.

80 Days til Ship-Rise

2010-07-28T15:48:00.000-07:00

Six mornings a week, near sunrise, one or more cruise ships appear on the watery eastern horizon off the coast of east central Florida. As of this writing eight in all sail out of the rising sun into Port Canaveral, for either a 'turn around' or a call at our fair port.

In 80 days, that sunrise ship count will rise by one, as our sunrise sees the SUN rise over our horizon. She'll be making her first arrival at her new home port, coming al lthe way from across the Atlalntic.

That evening -October 16, 2010 - she'll sail from her new home on a seven night westeren Caribbean itinerary.

As there were for the first Port Canaveral sailing of the Freedom of the Seas and the Carnival Dreeam, I'm sure there will be plenty of locals on hand to bid her and her cargo of revelers a hearty "Bon Voyage" as she heads for her first port of call, Cozumel, Mexico. I'm looking firward to welcoming a new ship to our 'home fleet,' and barring any unforseen circumstances, I plan to be in that crowd that afternoon!

Musings on the coming of the Sun brought to you by

Norwegian Sun postcard (pre-hull art) at CruiseReadyStore.com

and Bon Voyage to me pins at CruiseReady on Zazzle

Tropical Depression Three Forms in The Bahamas

2010-07-22T08:24:00.001-07:00

Tropical Depression Three has formed northwest of Great Iguana Island in The Bahamas, and is already nearing Tropical Storm Strength.

Under Tropical Storm Warnings are: The central and northwestern Bahamas; All of the Florida Keys; Southern Florida, from Golden Beach Southward, around the tip of the state, up to Bonita Beach on the west coast.
Golden Beach northward to Jupiter Inlet is under a Tropical Storm Watch..

This could affect cruises slated to call in Nassau, Freeport, and most of the cruise line private islands today and tomorrow, as well as those scheduled to disembark/embark at Miami and Ft. Lauderdale.

We'll be thinking of those in the Keys and South Florida, as well as the beautiful Bahamian islands. Take care, friends.

New for Carnival Cruisers - Comedy Clubs

2010-07-21T07:51:00.000-07:00

Carnival Cruise Line has announced that they will be implementing "Punchliner" comdey clubs on all their ship. While the clubs are already operational on four ships (Carnival Glory, Carnival Pride, Carnival Sensation, and Carnival Dream,) the line says they will be available fleetwide shortly.

The clubs will offer multiple 35 minute shows per day, several of each cruise. Early evening shows will be family oriented, while late night shows will be filled with adult humor.

The new Punchliner Comedy Club will be located in the aft of the ships, where the current show lounges are getting some modifications to accomodate the new concept. Those changes include a new stage, and branded glassware and staff uniforms.

Sounds good to me ... My favorite thing to do on a cruise ship is to find a quiet place and just chill out, but a laughter-filled interlude now and then is just icing on the cake.

This news brought to you by

"Hey Captain! I Wanna Drive!"

shirts at CruiseReady on Zazzle.

PS - Keeping an eye on that piece of weather just above the Greater Antilles (See weather widget at left) It MAY develop into something that could affect The Bahamas, and possibly south Floirida over the next few days. I'll do an update if anything starts to come of it.

Discovery Cruise Line Salutes the Troops

2010-07-17T07:53:00.000-07:00

BIG KUDOS go out today from Cruising Musings to Discovery Cruise Line. They are offering a FREE day cruise to all Military who are serving in Iraq or Afghanistan or have served during the last year.

Their "Fun Day Cruise" leaves from Ft. Lauderdale each morning (except Wednesdays), arriving at Freeport, The Bahams at 2:00 pm, for a four hour stay, and sails back 'home' in the evening.

The nice thing about this offer for our military is that everything seems to be included in the FREE part, even port fees and taxes. The offer expires Dec 31 of this year. Here's the link to the web page where our militaary heroes can fill out a short form to get their well-deserved day cruise: http://www.discoverycruiseline.com/specials/military.

Thank you, Discovery Cruise Lines, for your support of our troops,

and THANK YOU to our men and women in uniform!

(This happy news brought to you by

Thank the Troops products at We People )

Are Brighter Days Ahead for the ss United States?

2010-07-05T16:37:00.000-07:00

A while back, I wrote about the ss United States, and efforts to save this historic (and much loved) vessel from being turned into scrap metal, in a post titled "Is the End Near for the ss United States?"

New York City. The ss United States with the ss America passing in front of her

Today, I'm happy to report that, thanks to the generosity of a benefactor, and the consideration of Norwegian Cruise Line, it appears the ss United States Coservancy will be able to buy her some more time.

The angel is a Mr. Lenfest, who donated several millions to the effort. Thanks are also owed to NCL, who turned down an offer of almost double from a scrapper a while back. They did so in order to agree to take a lesser offer from an organication that would preserve the record setting US built ocean liner.

It''s going to take a lot of work to get her back into shape, along with a great deal of capital.

The ss United States in 2007

Now she has a chance!
The Conservancy has deal with NCL for a $3 million purchase price, despite a $5.9 million big from a scrappers. EPA concerns must be satisfied soon. The Conservancy has enough capital for 20 months expenses for the ship, during which time they must create a plan to clean the ship of toxins and provide for future financial security for her. They may turn her into a hotel or floating maritime museum.

A Breakfast Menu from the ss United States,

dated July 10, 1966

Are brighter days ahead for the ss United States? Can the Conservancy pull off the monumental task ahead of them in the months they have? Gee, I sure hope so... and I know I'm not alone.

Fourth of July Gift with Purchase

2010-07-02T07:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, America!

Cruise Ready Store is celebrating our country's birthday by giving something away!

Free red, white, and blue lanyard

with each order of $17.76 or more

From Friday, July 2 through

Monday, July 5

Cruise Ready Store, your source for cruise gear and cruise mementos.

Carnival Ecstasy still at Sea (Alex) Next Sailing Delayed

2010-07-01T14:34:00.000-07:00

Because of severe weather from Alex, the Carnival Ecstasy has been unable to port at Galveston. Carnival Cruise Line has announced the following change.

The next cruise will now be a 3 day cruise to nowhere beginning on Friday, July 2nd. Bording will begin at 2 pm.

According to the Carnival website, "Guests that sail on the new 3 day cruise will receive a 25% refund of their cruise fare along with a 25% discount on a future 3 to 5 day cruise departing prior to April 30, 2012 as well as a $25 per person on board credit as a reimbursement for the Cozumel government taxes and fees."
SOURCE: http://www.carnival.com/cms/faq/default.aspx#q-1

This announcement brought to you by

Cruise Ready on Zazzle

UPDATE on Carnival Ecstasy

2010-06-30T10:44:00.000-07:00

Just received news that the Port of Galveston DID, indeed, close during the night... there are 5 ships that are waiting for the harbor to open so that they can enter. Presumably, the Carnival Ecstasy would be one of those five.

Hurricane Alex

2010-06-30T06:14:00.000-07:00

Tiki bar at Cozumel on a beautiful day.

Some cruisers encountered less than ideal weather in Cozumel last week, courtesy of then Tropical Storm Alex.

Well the 2010 Hurricane Season is off to a rip-roaring start in the Atlantic Basin. Alex was upgraded to a hurricane last night, and, while he's still a Category 1, he's a big boy in terms of size. He also has a very low minimum central pressure, so additional strengthening is certainly possible before landfall on the western gulf coast. He's slowed down, and that can make him even more dangerous for wherever he strikes... and for a wide surrounding area, given his size.

There was minimal disruption in cruise itineraries as TS Alex came near Cozumel. Just one ship headed east to Nasau in leiu of Cozumel, and two others simply reversed their scheduled port calls.

Today's turn-around for the Ecstasy could have been be affected, but the storm was considerate enough to move in time for the port of Galveston to be out of the danger area for the ship to return. (Passengers may well have experienced the effects of some higher than normal seas, though.) Let's hope he's equally considerate to the residents of northern Mexico and lower Texas.

June hurricanes aren't common, but aren't unheard of, either. The season has just begun, so aware that your cruise between now and late November could be affected this year, which is predicted to be unusually active. Check my previous blog entry, Cruising During Hurricane Season for some basic tips.

This blog entry sponsored by

Cruise Ready Store

Alex Forces a Few Itinerary Changes

2010-06-26T15:11:00.000-07:00

Belize, The Bay Islands of Honduras, and much of the Yucatan Peninsula's east coast are under tropical storm warnnings as Alex approaches landfall in (probably) northern Belize. Several cruise itineraries have been adjusted to keep ships and their passengers out of harm's way. Here are the ones we know about:

CARNIVAL Cruise Line
Carnival Triumph: Monday - Cozumel instead of Progresso; Tuesday - Progresso instead of Cozumel
Carnival Ecstacy: Monday - Cozumel instead of Progresso; Tuesday - Progresso instead of Cozumel

ROYAL CARIBBEAN Cruise Line
Grandeur of the Seas: Sunday - Nassau, The Bahamas, instead of Cozumel.

Be aware that there are several Gulf of Mexico home ports. With an active system, there is always the possibility that a ship's next arrival at, or departure from, the home port could be affected.
NOTE - This information in this blog is meant as a 'heads-up' only. Check with your Cruise Line or Travel Agent for the most authoritative information.

Good Morning, Alex

2010-06-26T07:06:00.001-07:00

As of 5 am, we have the first named storm of the 2010 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season.

Tropical Storm Alex is storming through the Western Caribbean on his way to the Yucatan Peninsula, where he is expected to arrive tomorrow. A Hurricane Hunter aircraft is enroute to the system now, and everyone is hoping they WON'T find a strengthing system, but those hopes will likely be dashed, given the conditions in the vacinity...

AHOY THERE, ALEX!
How about playing nice with those favorite cruise ports of mine whilel you'rein the area. Those folks don't need any of your grief. But, even more importantly, keep it down, will ya! Easy on the intensification... especially after you get across the Yucatan and into the GoM. We surely don't need you messing with that oil.

So, please play nice, and play out, won't you?
Just thought it wouldn't hurt to ask nicely...

This plea brought to you by the word AHOY

at CruiseReady on Zazzle

The SEASON Has Started!

2010-06-25T15:27:00.000-07:00

Within the last hour the National Hurricane Center announced the formation the first Tropical Depression of the 2010 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season. TD 01 is on the move in the Western Caribbean, and is expected to become Tropical Storm Alex before assaulting the east coast of the Yucatan late tomorrow.

After crossing the penninsula, it is forecast to emerge into the western Gulf of Mexico as a weaker system. However, the contidions there will be favorable for restrengthening. The water is warm, warm, warm in the GOM, and tropical systems just LOVE warm water.

In the Pacific, not one but TWO hurricanes currently churn well away from land. Celia has alreaady reached Category Five status, and is backing off, while Darby is also now a major 'cane at Categoroy Three. I hadn't blogged about this activity before, since neither has been a threat to land... but they certainly deserve a mention now.

Stay safe,, everyone, and keep your eyes on the Caribbean, as things have certainly cranked up early - just 25 days into the 2010 season.

Cruising during Hurricane Season

2010-06-11T07:12:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are, with 10 days of this year's Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season already gone, and not a storm in sight. That's typical, actually. The most active period is usually from about the second week of August through Octoer.

With virtually all of the major prediction centers and experts forecasting an extremely active season, we should be prepared for just about anything this year. Check your emergency plans, and get your 'go bag' ready if you live in a vunerable area. SOONER is better than later!

CRUISING
If you choose to cruise this time of year, here are some 'starter' tips for cruising during hurricane season from my Cruising Tips for New Cruisers page at Cruise Ready Store.

You may even find rough seas in the ship's pool during hurricane season.

Special Notes on Cruising during Hurricane Season

Hurricane season: June 1 – November 30

There are deals to be had during ‘the season,’ most especially during the peak months of August, September, and October. However, be prepared for possible trade-offs for those cheaper fares.

First – Plan to arrive at your port city at least a day early. If there’s an active ‘cane, the port authority could close down the port and order all ships to sea hours early. The captain has no choice... the ship MUST leave - with you or without you.

Second – Always buy travel insurance.

Third – Never cruise the Caribbean during hurricane season with your heart set on seeing a particular port. The captain WILL divert the ship’s course to keep you safe. This may include substituting an alternate port, or missing one or more ports entirely.

Fourth – Be prepared to end your cruise a day earlier or later than scheduled, or even in a different port than originally planned. Make return travel arrangements to your home that can be adjusted accordingly.

Fifth – If you are prone to motioin sickness, take along plenty of your favoirte remedy. Our favorites are of the natural variety, like these ginger candies.

Yes, all of the things mentioned above can happen. Not often, but they do. We cruise during hurricane season. We have even cruised in the rough seas generated by a Category 3 hurricane. And yes, we've been on a ship that was ordered out of port a few hours early, and arrived back a day late - at a port 200 miles from the one we left from. And yes, we had a wonderful time. Just wish we'd come home to a house with electrical power, and a neighborhood with gas stations and grocery stores that were open and stocked with inventory. But, we were well able to deal with it all, having just enjoyed some time on board our favorite cruise ship.

So, if you are cruising during hurricane season, be sure your home will be ready, and then get ready to cruise... Be sure to visit CruiseReadyStore.com and Cruise Ready on Zazzle to find some great cruise gear. You'll also find more tips and discussions about cruising during the season at http://www.cruiselinefans.com/.

Some Ideas for Father's Day Gifts

2010-06-08T08:35:00.000-07:00

If your father is osmeone who loves to cruise, you'll find several interesting things to choose from for him at CruiseReady on Zazzle Here are a few of them:

First, how about a embroidered with an "Official Cruiser" polo shirt, complete with a little embroidered cruise ship, and personalized with his name? Shown here in white, it also comes in red or blue.

Or, you can choose from other styles of shirts, inclding t shirts, long sleeves, or hooies and jackets in various colors.

Matching embriodered caps are also available.

Well, now, WOULD HE RATHER BE CRUISING?

Here's something a little different for the cruising Dad (or GrandDad) who also happens to be a grillmaster. He'll love barbequeing in this "I'd Rather Be Cruising" apron. Available in long or short lengths.

For a really special 'combination' gift, you might consier pairing his apron with a matching kid's apron for the kiddo in his life who is his little barbeque helper.

Even if Dad's not much of a back yard chef, there are a number of other items in the "I'd Rather Be Cruising" design that he might enjoy, incuding t shirts, hats, bumber stickers, a mousepad, even a frosted mug for his iced tea or adult everage.

THEN, THERE ARE THOSE OF US WHO MUST WORK IN ORDER TO CRUISE

So, lastly, I should mention one of the most popular designs at Cruise Ready on Zazzle: "I cruise. . . therefore, I work." One of these magnets, or perhaps the matching mousepad or mug would be a gift with a sentiment that many can easily relate to.

As you search for the perfect gift for that important man in your life, please accept my invitation to browse through the selection, not only at Cruise Ready on Zazzle, but also at my other two Zazzle Galleries -TropiCards and WePeople- as well as at Cruise Ready Store, my on line store offering cruise gear, travel accessories, and cruise mementos.

Cruise Ties for Father's Day - why not?

2010-06-05T07:37:00.000-07:00

Sovereign Stripe by CruiseReady

Sale Notice - Today (June 5) Only - 40% OFF Ties on Zazzle.
40% of the tie net sale price will be deducted when one or more ties are purchased and the coupon code DADDYTIEDEAL is applied at checkout. The net sale price is the price of the product (excluding shipping and taxes). Offer is valid through June 5, 2010 at 11:59pm PT

Maybe Dad really would like a Father's Day tie... especially one designed by YOU! Or, if he's an avid cruiser, one by Cruise Ready, like the one shown above (which is a tribute to the beautiful Sovereign of the Seas) just might become his new most favorite tie. If he does cruise, he really should have a new tie to wear to dinner on his next cruise, shouldn't he?