Well Alan Stuart was a blast last evening in The Palladium and everyone had a great laugh - people just need to laugh more these days and the best of it is they are laughing at themselves! Alan is also a fine singer and gave everyone a night to remember. Many passengers have seen him before but still come back time and again for his quick wit and star performance.
Waking up this morning we knew we were on a moving platform! Arcadia handles very well and we were in a force 8. The Captain made a broadcast at 0900 hours to update us all on the weather and the day ahead and to ask us to take care when moving around the cruise ship. I had a busy morning with an Executive Committee Meeting where the Senior Officers meet to discuss important business relating to the running of the ship, followed by my own Seniors 'Ten minutes huddle at ten', then an Inspection of the Main Deck 2 Galley accompanied by my Deputy F&B Manager.
There then followed the Gold Tier Lunch hosted by Acadia's Officers - this is exclusive to the passengers who have been awarded Gold Tier Status for their loyalty to P&O Cruises, based on the number of days they have cruised with us. The Staff Captain arranged for two Pakistani Seaman to be in National Costume on the doors and this added to the sense of occasion as passengers had their photograph taken on arrival at the Restaurant. The Grand Piano was playing as people entered The Meridian, clutching a glass of Champagne, and a an army of waiters to show them to their reserved table. This is a very special occasion for our passengers who like to dress up for the occasion. Table shot moments are captured by our Ship's Photographer. All these functions are based on a seating plan so it is not just a case of sitting anywhere, our Loyalty Manager does the seating plan with meticulous effort. Some passengers on my table were coming back to Arcadia for the Grand Voyage on the 5th January 2009 and were just popping home for Christmas! It is amazing just how much time people spend on board a ship. Ship's are like a second home to many.
After lunch I cleared my email and then took part in a film shoot in the Atrium for the film crew on board speaking on what makes Arcadia a big ship with a 'small ship friendly' atmosphere. This is all to do with the team work and camaraderie amongst the ship's company and interaction with our customers. At 1530 the skies are clearing and we can see blue sky in the horizon and the sea is calming down thankfully. Seasoned Cruisers know what to expect in the Med in late October yet it is amazing how first timers and other new to this time of year expect it to be smooth seas and blue skies all the way. There is an element of the cruise holiday which is denied when it is windy,raining and rocky as people cannot enjoy all the outdoor pursuits traditionally associated with cruising such as deck quoits, lying on sun beds sipping the cocktail of the day or simply leaning on the rail gazing out to sea relaxing. Never mind it keeps the indoor activities busy and the Art Auction in the Globe is a hive of activity and The Palladium is packed for the interview with the Headliners Theatre Company who put on the evening production shows. Passengers always like to know what goes on behind the scenes and some insider information so to speak, the tricks of the trade etc. The Captain also had an interview with the Cruise Director mid morning where we have roving reporter which is an opportunity for passengers to ask any questions from the floor. We are now sailing towards Gibraltar and are due to arrive at 0800 hours tomorrow when there will be a mass evacuation of excited shoppers descending on local traders like bees to a honey pot.
There is still lots to do and another full programme of entertainment and dining ahead on board the Indulgent Arcadia. This evening is dress code Formal and there will be a lot of style around and opportunities to have your photograph taken when looking ones best. 'Swinging Sixties Show' will be performed in The Palladium Theatre - what other holiday but a cruise can you enjoy so much west end style entertainment I ask? This is also Black and White night with a Ball in the Globe so all those Strictly Come Dancing Fans will be out in full force - Brucie eat your heart out!! Of course there is the James Bond Night in the Casino along with a 007 quiz in the Rising Sun - the best pub in town. Our Duo Kelly and Stuart have their own following in the Piano Bar which is at the top of the Atrium, and bring to memory lots of the exciting places we have been to like St Peter's in Rome and Palma in Majorca.
Bye for now.
James.
'Those who wish to sing will always find a song'!
Posts
0 comments:
Post a Comment