Greetings, All!

We are having a marvelous time here and keeping everything ship shape for you PARTYer's!

I just wanted to check in with a bit of up-to-the-minute info. Forgive me if this is common knowledge already.

Keith and I were speaking with Ken Watson (Exec. VP Mktg & Sales for Rad) and I inquired about the impending name change. Ken said that it is going to happen in January, with the refurbishments taking place over time (i.e. replacing everything that has the harp logo - BIG job as you all know). His body language indicated that phase was a logistical nightmare, so I certainly feel for him. Of course, that didn't stop us from also asking what will happen to the Rad logo ship items....I would love a set of those chargers on my dining room table! Ha Ha

Additionally, all logo-wear in the boutique is 50-80% off as they are trying to liquidate their stock. Nice time to grab some garb.

We have yet to hook up with Neville and his wife due to my poor prior-planning, but have already met so many wonderful folks onboard. The group this time is a little older than our Mariner Xmas cruise last year, but that has had no effect on everyone's enjoyment.

Here are some comparisons between Mariner and Voyager that I can make for you right now:
Voyager has a more reserved/formal atmosphere to me. Mariner at Xmas was deocated with the usual garlands, but there were also cheerful gingerbread houses everywhere and a tree for the children to make ornaments. Perhaps these things will show up later in the trip. Currently, we have nice trees everywhere, but they are decorated a bit "sterilely" for my taste.

Mariner definitely has the better library, but Voyager has the edge with the layout of Compass Rose and the casino.

These are just my personal thoughts. The menus appear to be identical and just as fabulous. I had only to read the degustation appetizer Sunday night to know it was the "beef wellington" dinner! My fav.

Horseback riding adventure in San Juan today. It was our replacement choice for the cancelled canopy adventure. Gosh, we really will have to do that one day. The old picture of Todd still rests in my mind as I think, "How much fun that must be!"

Anyhoo - I can't promise to pop in with any regularity, but I will be on every so often to check in with more news and just general observations. I am keeping a journal this time and SWEAR to post a review!

Hope all is well!

Oh - Ngaire, Ken sends warm regards your way!

Cheers! <img border="0" alt="[vhappy]" title="" src="graemlins/icon_vhappy.gif" />
Ash