There goes Karen, making it even easier! What a gem you are, Karen.

Luke, you asked for comments on the British Isles itinerary -- which, I might add, we JUST BOOKED! Yea! Our first RSSC cruise was on the Song of Flower around the British Isles in 2001, so some ports will be repeats for us, and I'll comment about those. (Forgive me if I mis-remember anything. I'm talking off the top of my head here, without pulling out information from our prior trip, so I'd better make that disclaimer up front.)

Two full days in Edinburgh should allow good time to see that fascinating city; one port day wouldn't really do it justice because you would be rushing around so fast, from the castle along the Miracle Mile and through the old city to a tea shop for Scottish scones, etc. In two days a person could get a much better feel for Edinburgh, and being a bit of an Anglophile I find that very appealing. Or, if one was inclined, there could be a day in the city and a day in the surrounding countryside. So two days provides good options. We have been to Edinburgh twice, and I love the city. I'm excited at getting another shot at it.

I believe -- but I need to get a map out to be certain -- that Invergordon is the port in the Inner Hebrides Islands where we stopped. If so, it was very interesting -- a stone "sun circle" along the lines of Stonehenge, a charming town and small cathedral, and Skapa Flo (sp?), which was an important WWII site. But I won't go on about this until I'm sure that I've got my facts right.

The Isle of Skye was memorable. Loads of history and charm on this little island. I have a pebble from there given to me by a Scotsman to keep in my luggage. It is supposed to ensure that your ship won't sink as long as you carry it. :)

I was happy to see a long day, until 11:00 p.m., in Dublin. On our previous trip we got a city bus tour and a trip to the museum to see the Book of Kells, but that was about it. A longer day to tour will be very welcome there.

The other ports will be new for us, and I like the sound of them. Lots of variety, it seems to me.

Come with us!