Homeport Southampton!

Good Morning Everyone,

Here here we are alongside our berth 106, the Mayflower Terminal, in our home port Southampton. Despite some fog last evening were are here on time, tied up, and all systems go at 0600 hours. I have never seen so much luggage for off loading on Arcadia as I have sighted this morning - that's a Grand Voyage for you - 101 days completed. Yesterday was a very relaxed mood on board considering it was the last day with lots of farewells and see you again, thanks for a great time.........and so on!

Thank you to everyone who encouraged and supported me and the fabulous Arcadia team, and travelled with me on this blog, for your comments and good humour - this is all appreciated.

Au revoir!
James

Fascination lies in the magic of the extraordinary
Ralph Anstoetz

Cambodia Again! A story from Chris - Angkor

Hello Again!

My thanks to Chris for these wonderful photographs. Chris and her husband Paul left Arcadia at Laem Chabang in Thailand and travelled up to Bangkok. Form there they flew to Seim Reap in Cambodia! You see there is so much you can do on a Grand Voyage - we can arrange excursions to meet your needs. They rejoined us again at Singapore.

My thanks to Chris for her story...........................................

Driving through the teeming streets of Siem Reap in Cambodia does not prepare you for the first sight of Angkor.

For six centuries it was the capital of Cambodia but this role ended in 1432. Its remains cover over 77 square miles. The old wooden houses have rotted away but the 70 stone temples and tombs which remain are breathtakingly beautiful and awesome in scale. Angkor Wat is in fact the world’s largest single religious complex.

Our guide saved the best till last. Early morning saw us at south gate into Angkor Thom. It is still possible to travel there by elephant (from the car park!) but the causeway across, richly decorated and carrying 154 statues of gods and demons is well worth the walk. We boggled at the craftsmanship, beauty and size of the terrace of elephants from which the kings would have watched parades and sporting events and marvelled at the carvings of benign and not so benign gods.

The majority of organised tours visit Angkor Wat first and most people leave at 1.00pm to return to Siem Reap for a 2 hour lunch break to avoid the intense heat. Fortunately for us our guide elected to take us to Angkor Wat at just after 1.00pm and for almost 2 hours we had it all to ourselves.

Originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, the entire layout is surrounded by a moat which marks the boundaries but also symbolises the ocean of the universe. Alongside the Hindu gods, battle scenes and dancing girls are also later Buddhist influences all of which are beautifully preserved.

Over a million people lived in Angkor Thom at its peak but the thirteenth century Angkor was already in decline and the jungle quickly claimed it. It was not until the nineteenth century that European explorers “discovered” it and restoration and clearing the jungle cleared until the Vietnam War.

The most striking thing about any visit to Cambodia is number of amputees. One in 350 lost at least one limb. Land mines are no respecters of these gentle forgiving people and it will be at least 2020 before the last unexploded ordinance has been cleared. An estimated two million Cambodians died in one of the worst acts of genocide in history. They do not forget but they do forgive.

Angkor and tourism in general is bringing millions of visitors to the region, giving a much needed boost to the economy. We were thrilled to see Angkor when we did. There could soon be restrictions on numbers, so if you pass that way soon – take the P&O excursion!

My thanks to Chris for this report on what was a truly amazing excursion. I have shared some wonderful times with Paul and Chris on this Grand Voyage and I hope it will not be too long until our paths cross again. Thank you for the good times!

All for now,

James.

The wonder of it all

Last port of call - Vigo - Spain

Good Day Everyone,

We had a very exciting call at Vigo today with everyone making the most of a quick run ashore on this last port on our Grand Voyage! It did not seem the same with out our dear friend and Port Agent Alberto Duran who sadly passed away suddenly last November. However it was good to see Alberto's son - also called Alberto and all our friendly officials. Lots of people taking advantage of our tours today and for everyone else you can just wonder into town or take a taxi to the Department Stores. Vigo is a very prosperous city and everything you could wish for it here along with many fine bars, cafes and restaurants.

Commodore Steve Burgoine and Staff Captain Simon Terry on Arcadia's Bridge ready for departure for Southampton.

The final gangway about to be lifted out - these were shore side supplied gangways today.

James. Sam and Mario at this morning's clearance - rejoicing in the fact that we have 'cleared' the world on this Grand Voyage.

Where's the gangway - James on the Promenade Deck as the ship is coming alongside.

The Vigo Cruise Terminal which has undergone major refurbishment inside and is looking very smart indeed.

For everyone who is asking where is Captain Hamish Reid? - Here is proof that he is alive and well - Captain Reid visited Arcadia recently on Company Business and is in fine form - enjoying Dinner here in The Orchid Restaurant.

I have got my cattle man hat packed - pictured here with Jane from P&O Australia.

Another great Pianist - Mr Bobby Crush!

Hello to our dear Canadian Friends - Captain John and his wife Trica pictured here at their Diamond Wedding Anniversary Calibrations with Paul Clasby - Chief Engineer now on leave.

Hello to Bomi and Prasad in our Mumbai Office - thanks for visiting us on board Arcadia at Mumbai - I know you all read my blog so sending best wishes to our Mumbai Office.

The Fortress at Vigo which is featured on one of out excursions.

The magnificent church at Santiago de Compostela where they have a huge incense burner. This is the areas big historical attraction and brings in thousand of visitors each year. The pipe organ in the church is so large that the pipes are fitted horizontally as they will not fit in vertically. I have been here in the past and it is well worth a visit - dedicated to St James.

As we come to the end of this Grand Voyage everyone is saying what a remarkable journey this has been. I agree! It is only when we all get home and take time to reflect that we will realise just how much we have seen and how many unique experiences we have enjoyed. What great people we have met - passengers, ship's company, Agents and Officials, locals and celebrities.

Louise and Tony - I was speaking to Brain and Judith Atkins this evening and they hope you will send them an email to them so as you can all keep in touch. Judith and Brian are still doing their morning miles around Promenade Deck every day - good standard!

Thanks for all your messages and good wishes which I have shared with the Arcadia team. I am so pleased you have enjoyed this blog on the grand voyage and this is the first time I have had cyber passengers on board with me! Take care!

Bye for now,

James.

We'll meet again, don't know where, don't know when, but I know we'll meet again one sunny day!

Lisbon - Portugal - Easter Monday!

View from the ship - a little marina with cafes and shops.

The Cruise ship Terminal at Lisbon.

The fuel barge comes alongside - topping up the tanks for the run home!

Ron and Gill Brown enjoying lunch in The Meridian Restaurant with a fine view.

Cuscais Beach

Cuscais Street Scene.

Ceramics for sale in Sintra

Manuline Hall Doorway in the Royal Palace at Sintra.

Royal Palace Blazons Hall

The blue tiles in the Blazons Hall.

The domed ceiling in the Blazons Hall.

It is all in the detail...............

a close up shot............

The facade of the Royal Palace - you would never guess it was so grand inside.

Royal Palace furniture style.

Royal Palace - King Sebastien's bed.

Royal Palace - the Magpie Room.

Royal Palace - Palantine Chapel.

Royal Palace - the swan ceiling.

a close up - see the regal collar!

Spring has sprung at Cape Roca

Wild waves at Cape Roca - never under estimate the power of the sea..........

Good Day Everyone,

Here we are in Lisbon, after a wet morning the clouds have lifted for a bright afternoon here.

Lisbon descends from many hills to the great River Tagus to which, for centuries has been a source of wealth and fascination for the city. It is a beautiful City and the people are very friendly.The architecture is very interesting and so much to see.

Graham was out on tour today so here is his report - very grateful for this as I have been busy showing Peter Thomas around the ship and talking to people!

Here is Grahams report..................

Today we find Arcadia safely alongside our penultimate port of call on her maiden Grand Voyage in Lisbon. Weather wise it started dull and the threat of a rain shower but generally it began to get brighter and we set off for Sintra and Cascais with a general feeling of we are going to have a great time in and around these particularly scenic areas.

Driving out through the Belem district of Lisbon, an area that our regular cruise passengers know well we carry on until we reach the pretty coastal town of Cascais. My own personal memories go back 20 plus years to another holiday here when it really was a sleepy little fishing village, today it boasts a up and coming marina and a good range of shops. As we strolled the almost deserted streets many were remarking what a very pleasant place this was and also how the wavy black and white blocked surface was so very different to other Mediterranean towns. Those of us who have also visited Madeira will have seen this sort of thing there as well. We window shopped and many including myself were welcomed into the many shoe and clothes shops.

All too soon we were off again along the coast to the wild and scenic area at Guincho. I love it here, this is raw nature, the winds blow and the waves crash onto the rocks whilst the sand is blown across the road and ends up piled up on the many dunes. There were signs of Spring as well with many colourful wild flowers in bloom, Spring is lovely no matter where you are in the world. This is a daily chore for the local workmen who have to come here to clear the excess off the road.

We were waiting though for the highlight of the tour, our visit to the town of Sintra set high in the hills in what is a National Park. Leaving the coach we walk up into the town and there are the shops and cafes of this interesting old town. It was not long before some of the eagle eyed passengers saw the full selection of porcelain on sale here, all very typical Portuguese styles and wonderfully executed. This is a super place full of Portuguese character crowned by the Royal Palace.

Here the kings and Queens of old would live for part of the year in luxury surroundings. I decided that I would pay the required entry fee, a very reasonable 5 Euros and explore the rooms and stairways of the palace. How I enjoyed this experience; for 40 minutes I was in utter splendour in Manuline style. Almost before one has caught your breath you are met with the amazing sight of the golden swan ceiling in the grand entranced hall. Here you can see panels of gold collared swans, beautifully executed works of art each and every one.
The Magpie Room was next and this did not disappoint either (see the magnificent fireplace and tiled area in the picture).

King Sebastian must have loved his bed that we saw, four poster and complemented with the other furnishings.

The star room for me though was the Blazons Hall; what a fantastic room this is, wonderful blue tiles walls with windows unusually on all four walls. But it is when you look up and see the domed ceiling, this really takes your breath away. See the detail of the horses in each panel. The entrance fee to see this room alone was worth paying.

Walk on through the palace and I came across the Palentine Chapel, beautifully decorated and perfect for the purpose that it was designed for.

Finally I came to the Manuline Hall beautifully set and do look at the pictures to appreciate the carving of the door surrounds and the fireplace, surely some of the finest examples anywhere.
My suggestion to anyone on tour whilst in Lisbon is to book this tour and then pay the 5 Euros extra to fully appreciate this magnificent palace with you own eyes.
Farewell to Lisbon.

Thanks for that Graham.

All for now - a few farewell parties to attend with passengers this evening - so sad saying good bye to the people who have been so part of our lives for this Grand Voyage - however this is sea life - you have two lives - one on board and one on Land - as I always say!

Best wishes for the week ahead,

James.

You can stroke people with words.

F Scott Fitzgerald

Easter Sunday at Sea.

A sparkling Easter Sunday Afternoon with the Celebrities!
L to R - Iris Williams O.B.E, James, Beckie Emberton Head Dancer with the Headliners Theatre Company and Mike Doyle.

Iris, Mike and Beckie will be joining the Commodore as judges at our 'Strictly Arcadia Dancing' this afternoon.

Iris' musical journey has taken her from South Wales to an international career of huge distinction. Iris' first major success' He was beautiful. earned her a gold disc.

Iris wishes to send greeting to Douglas, Rita and Gareth Evans.

Mike Doyle is a West End singer and award winning comic who leaves his audiences spellbound after his many appearances all over the world. Mike will be on in The Palladium this evening.
I have known Mike for many years and he is great fun to be around.


Commodore Steve Burgoine with the joint winners of the dancing competition and the celebrity Judges!

Blue sea and skies over the open decks of Arcadia today - even thought it is cooler!

Malaga from a distance at noon today.

Father Michael Gibbons & Mrs Marian Hughes. Marian's husband John ( not pictured!) was a Purser with P&O Cruises many years ago and is now retired.

Rev Tony Meek and his wife Jennifer and you know who!

Commodore Steve Burgoine takes the Interdenominational Church Service with the 'professionals' on hand for today!

The Choir were fantastic. Music and singing brings so much joy and pleasure to many.

One of our Easter Displays showcasing the tremendous talent and creativity of Arcadia's Galley Brigade under the direction of Trevor Connolly our Executive Chef.

Easter Greetings to all,

Here we are at sea and the last time I was out on deck we were passing Malaga and now in my office I can see the rock of Gibraltar from my office window - well and truly on the way home now. I have just returned from the Gold Tier Poutunus Lunch was as a most enjoyable occasion and a perfect way to spend Easter Sunday Lunch with no cooking or shopping to do! The Choir were in fine voice this morning and all went well for our Easter Sunday Service in The Palladium Theatre at 1015. I do enjoy playing the piano for Easter and Christmas as the music is such a big part of the celebrations. When I finished this morning after the service I got a round of applause so I continued on for another five minutes or so in appreciation to my audience. Then it was up to the Crows Nest with all the Choir for some coffee and Danish and I was given the task of saying a few words of appreciation to our Cruise Director Gary Glading on behalf of the passenger choir for Gary's contribution to 'Choirs at Sea' - if it was not for Gary it would not have happened! The Choir presented Gary with a canvas photograph personally signed by all the current members of the choir - 60+ - lots of people have come and gone over the Grand Voyage.

In between all this I checked my emails and talked to various members of my team and passengers - it is all going on...........last evening I was attending a number of social functions and as it was the Jame Bond and Black and White night - I was the celebrity dealer in The Casino from 10.00pm to 11.00pm - it was good fun and the Casino was packed. All the things you do to keep the business booming!

At 1530 hours today we have a 'Strictly Arcadia Dancing' in The Palladium where Officers are taking part in a competition so this should be fun! Hope you are enjoying your Easter Weekend where ever you are. Portugal in the morning with our call at Lisbon for Easter Monday. Peter Thomas my relief also joins for a handover period until Southampton. My own piano was packed up for storage today so preparations for departure are well under way - this is always a ritual on each leaving and joining!

Happy Easter to all our friends in Australia and especially to Geoff Witts - Geoff thanks for all your wonderful messages - I was taking to my right hand man Steve Mitchell - our Senior Purser - Food and Beverage Manager and he sends this message to you -

Please pass onto Geoff and his family 'Happy Easter' from myself and tell him I am looking forward to meeting up with his twin brother Graham who lives in Leicestershire in the summer, I used to work and share a cabin with Graham in the mid 80s on Pacific Princess when we were both bartenders, the last time we met up was at the christening of my daughter Kirsty back in 1993.

It was only by pure chance that I met Geoff and his lovely wife at the Commodores Welcome Party on the 7th February when they were travelling from Singapore to Perth, Geoff was kind enough to give me Graham's phone number and I look forward to catching up with Graham and his family in the summer to catch up with all the news.
Best Regards
Steve

Hope things are warming up for Tony and Louse in Italy.........

All good wishes form all us Arcadians,

James.

Memories are treasures we can enjoy again and again.