FYI Navigator to Cancel ports in Guatemala and Nicaragua

A good friend on the Nav right now just wrote me. The Navigator is going to cancel ports in Guatemala and Nicaragua due to the volcanic ash and "civil unrest." I guess it is lucky for those who like sea days .:(:loudcry::mad:

J

Recently off the Navigator WC - we were able to visit Guatemala (no volcanic activity there last month) but we did miss Nicaragua due to same civil unrest.

That drops it to five ports in an 18 day cruise; hopefully they add additional ports in Mexico and/or Costa Rica and/or Panama City. I am sure that Canal transit date and time are set so ship has to go somewhere to fill in those days.

Marc

Currently onboard Navigator, at sea. Again, stuff happens. So, there will be an extra stop in northern Costa Rica at a port not-previously visited by Navigator--and our great Guest Lecturer who has given a series of informative talks concerning culture and history of this area.

Concerning the civil unrest situation: street violence, numerous deaths, some as recently as yesterday. Total of over 100 killed within the last few weeks. As to volcano, that particular one continues to erupt, spreading ash over the key road leading to many intended excursion destinations.

Calm sea this PM.

BTW: Special order of Miso-glazed Chilean sea bass last night at Compass Rose. Gave them 48-hours advance notice. As great as always! Have already scheduled two more, in addition to an evening when it will appear on the general menu.

Best,

GOARMY!

A good friend on the Nav right now just wrote me. The Navigator is going to cancel ports in Guatemala and Nicaragua due to the volcanic ash and "civil unrest." I guess it is lucky for those who like sea days .:(:loudcry::mad:J

We missed Nicaragua o our last cruise (April 2018), better safe than sorry. I think they did the right thing-----but we love sea days.

Thanks JMariner for this port information and GoArmy for the first hand Nav experience now.

We have both of these ports and Hilo on our Oct to November Mariner voyage--hoping for the best but will not be surprised if these ports are changed four months from now too.

We have a cousin who is a Foreign Service Officer (has served in Afghanistan, Columbia, Japan, and now Nicaragua). Unfortuntately, due to the devastating/deadly unrest in this country now, she first had to send her family home last month and then left herself last week. Below is her last note from Nicaragua before leaving:

This morning I left Managua to ride out the crisis with my family in DC. This was a hard decision, but I know I can do as much, if not more, from my headquarters (DOS) in Washington. I hold hope that my family and all of those who like us had to leave too early will be able to return—hopefully one day very soon. My heart is with the brave Nicaraguans trying to change their world for the better.

Currently in port at the furthest-south Mexican stop. Ran on-deck earlier this AM when the temperature was "only" 75 degrees. It is now 90, with similar humidity. The rain clouds are already on the horizon, as storms are predicted later in the PM.

Do have a comment, or two regarding Foreign Service Officers (FSO). Had occasions during one segment of my past Army career to "liaison" with several. Had a very-interesting experience during a somewhat contiguous career as a Postal Inspector while conducting a mail fraud investigation (together with an Assistant U.S. Attorney) at Hong Kong, Singapore, and Indonesia. That was in the early 1980s. This required coordination with Department of State upon arrival at Medan, Indonesia. The FSO met us at the airport. Gave us a required security briefing (that area of Indonesia was still under Martial Law). Also present was an Indonesian Army Colonel who spoke English. Where we were going in the countryside about 80 kilometers south of Medan would require a military escort--which he and the FSO had already-arranged. And, this is key, our FSO guy spoke the native dialect. He acted as translator and facilitator during that segment of the investigation. It was obvious he and the Colonel had established a very-positive relationship.

Upon return to Medan--and successfully contacting and interviewing the Indonesian citizens who would later testify in Federal Court at Seattle at trial of the American defendant--the FSO invited us to join him and his wife at their home for dinner in a "compound" set-aside for foreign diplomats. It was an amazing evening talking to them about their experiences all over the world. This guy spoke fluent French, German, and several Indonesian dialects. His wife--similar background.

I have the highest respect for the State Department, and particularly FSOs. They serve this Country, often at great personal risk. Their efforts too often go unnoticed and unappreciated.

A bit off-thread. But, there it is.

Best.

GOARMY!

Jim, absolutely the FSO's are combat multipliers that serve directly beside our military in combat zones.

Look forward to more of your on board reports as we will visit seven of the ports you will visit on the Mariner in October (Miami to Honlulu).

COL Wes:

Will attempt to provide a few comments during the remainder of this Navigator voyage to NYC. They will, in reality be onboard, due to previously-discussed cancelations of shore excursions.

There are two things one can count on when doing these Panama Canal transits, as we have on several occasions either east to west; or west of east over the past 20 years. Those being, in addition to death and taxes: volcano eruptions and civil unrest leading to revolution. Oh, in case I neglected to mention the third constant--really, really HOT!

Like, remembrances of our Navigator May-June 2017 Miami-Amazon River-Miami experience.

Our next Canal transit will be aboard Splendor in March, 2020--LA to Miami.

Next "Sit Rep" (Situation Report) will be issued when circumstances warrant. That is all.

Best,

COL Jim.

GOARMY!

I am trying this again, at about 2330H, local time, having just departed Puntarenas, Costa Rica upon Navigator. Because, tried about six hours ago for a similar posting as to unvarnished observations. That did not work, as Internet, or whatever, went into freeze mode. See below.

Cruise Director (CD) Ray Solaire arranged a local folkloric performance for this evening's pre dinner show. As usual, delightful. Had dinner with Ray this PM. What a great host, and gentleman with whom we have had the pleasure to sail with for over many years.

And--this is important to us--a few nights ago Ray arranged for the pianist who performs with the band to present a special classical piano concert. This guy, from Ukraine, was marvelous. And, he had the good sense to play Chopin's Ballad No. 1 and Debussy's Clair de Lune. This was particularly relevant, as I played these same classics 49 years ago while courting my future, current, and only wife. We will celebrate our 50th Anniversary aboard Splendor on yet-another Canal transit--LA to Miami, March, 2020. But, as usual, I digress.

As usual, will preface following with a quote from a classic movie. In this case, "The Producers". 1967. Zero and Gene. "Be brutal, be brutal. You know the critics will!". For context, just see this great movie. Overall, a positive experience on this latest of many transits either east to west or west to east through the Panama Canal over the past 20 years.

1. Service. Tops. Positive attitude by all staff from attendants to officers. An acknowledgment as good morning or good afternoon is met with a smile and response. Typical of Regent standards on all four ships on which we have sailed. Just ask (reasonably) for a special request, and it will be met.

2. Internet service. Would say, about 80% performance. In most instances, this is beyond control of ship's personnel. The tech guy on this cruise has been spot-on to mitigate any issue which can be mitigated other than reconfiguring the trajectory of a satellite, or atmospheric lightning.

3. Food. Overall, exactly what should be expected of a five-star Line. Every fish dish ordered at lunch or dinner has been prepared and presented to perfection. Miso glazed sea bass; swordfish; dover sole. Side dishes are hot. Now, the down side "beef" has been--and this has been detailed earlier by others while on Mariner--beef. New York and T-bone steaks are way-below par. Thin, and without flavor. This aspect was reported in our mid-cruise Comments, just submitted. Filet mignon is a different story. While at Prime 7, had the "specialty" surf and turf mignon and lobster. Could not have been better. So, my recommendation would be to eschew any steak other than filet mignon until action is taken at higher levels to improve quality.

4. Lectures. Dr. James Kus has presented consistently relevant talks concerning the culture, history, and artifacts of the area. Yes, we had to forgo Guatemala (volcano) and Nicaragua (riots and incipient revolution) stops. But, that has been typical of previous ventures into this area. Just stay on the ship. Also, there have been a series of National Geographic and History Channel documentaries concerning the Canal available for suite viewing. Would hope fellow passengers with limited past experience traveling in this area will take advantage of the opportunity to prepare for the upcoming transit.

5. In-suite entertainment. Great range of classic movies and recent releases. Last night, saw "The Shape of Water". Another opportunity to revisit "Citizen Kane" and "Casablanca". Sorry, no CNN. But, MSNBC and CNBC.

6. Cruise consultant. On top of his game. Signed up for two more 2019 Regent cruises. Great benefits accrue by doing so onboard.

That about sums it up. When needed, another Sit Rep will be issued.

Best,

GOARMY!

Love your narrative! More stories, please!

Jim, thanks for your continued on board the Mariner reports. And thank you for the outstanding MARSITREP. Will keep your beef recommendations in mind when we dine in P7 on the Mariner in October unless we hear of positive changes before then.

Finally, kudos to your bride and you for four+ decades of marriage--how terrific for you to celebrate your Golden Jubilee year aboard the Splendor in 2020.

Loving your postings. We will be aboard Splendor with you in 2020. We are celebrating our anniversary on that cruise, as well. Look forward to meeting you.

Sheila

Well, here we are again. A short Report. Languid day this PM watching a parade of container, cruise, and Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) ships either paralleling us south to the Canal on starboard; or port side going in the opposite direction.

The day began for me at 0730H. Light rain on Deck 11. No one else there. A slightly-modified jog for about two miles at a slower rate to preclude slipping. Totally alone. Perfect conditions regarding modest humidity and a calm sea. The calm sea persists, thankfully; the humidity has again skyrocketed.

Must begin by reference to another of my favorite movies, "The Guns of Navarone". 1961. Greg Peck, David Niven, Anthony Quinn. Peck opines, as the commando group prepares to enter a dangerous passage in the quest to blow up that nasty German gun emplacement: "Your in it now, boys, right up to your necks!"

O.K. We are in the penultimate day of what should be the highlight of this cruise either for folks who have never experienced a Canal transit; or to refresh memories of others who have. This time it is west to east in this not-dangerous passage. Actually, and this might come as a bit of a shock--not due west to due east; but, basically somewhat south to north. In our case, the "line of travel" from the Pacific side will be to the Northwest. Not to worry. Your Passages will provide a detailed description of this 8.5 hour event. You will also be provided with a map.

Dr. James presented an expanded lecture this AM to a packed house. History, operations, and current aspects of Canal operations following completion of most of the 5B+ recent upgrades. No, we will not be utilizing any of the new facilities. As an aside: when considering what was paid by guests for this opportunity--Dr. James gave an overview of transit costs. The highest are 1M paid by a LNG ship based on size, weight, time of transit (daytime), and potential dangerous (catastrophic) cargo. For us peons: Regent has probably forked-over, in advance and in a cash transfer, around $400.000.00. Lets see--based on about 465 passengers--You do the math.

Tomorrow's weather will probably be occasional showers, but visibility will not be significantly hampered. Several Pilots will be onboard, together with a local lecturer, well-known to Dr. James, to provide ongoing narration of events.

Here are a few other random notes before "retiring" to enjoy tea with my dear spouse. (An aside: met Sue my first day back in Seattle upon return from a year in Vietnam. That was May, 1969. Smitten at first sight.) O.K. back to work.

1. Shore excursions. Can only provide limited comments due to cancelations mentioned earlier. Should your excursion include Cabo San Lucas in Mexico, recommend "Salsa and Salsa"experience. Really fun. You will make your own lunch--at no additional charge. Then, learn basic salsa dance steps. We did not do any excursions when at the two Costa Rican stops. Have visited that country numerous times either when cruising or visiting my wife's brother who previously lived there.

2. Food presentation. Again, with the exception of steaks, great. Had a delicious lunch today at Compass Rose. Ordered the "Saumon Grille" with champagne hollandaise. This is one of several Chartreuse Restaurant options offered. Same opportunities apply concerning Prime 7 and Pacific Rim appetizers or main courses. Something new to try each day from Chartreuse and Pacific Rim Restaurant menus even though those venues are not aboard Navigator.

I have run out of time. Will keep you updated.

GOARMY!

Quick footnote.

How could I have forgotten Afternoon Tea? That is why I run every day, and my wife visits a gym on a routine basis.

This afternoon was typical. Wonderful presentation of numerous delights accompanied by the pianist who normally solos for evening dancing.

We treasure opportunities for Regent to feature artists performing classical selections whether piano, violin, cello, or voice. Our pianist played Couperin, Beethoven, and most-poignant, a selection from Gabriel Faure's "Dolly Suite." Perfect for the venue. Tears to my eyes. Sorry, but it brought back memories. Then, he finished with an interpretation of favorites from "Phantom of the Opera".

Tonight, dinner with the Staff Engineering Officer.

More to follow, as circumstances allow. That is all. Out.

GOARMY!

Jim, Thanks for more excellent MARSITREPs...appreciate the excursion recommendation in CABO—we will now change. Ida is Latina and loves to dance so this excursion is a no brainer...I could even get lucky later that nite :)

FYI, Portolan/Scott on the Cuba visa thread mentioned to me he was also a retired Colonel (Engineer). Replied that in the last 72 hrs learned of two other retired Colonel cruise critics. I bet between Jim, Scott and me we have over nine decades of service to our beloved country.

Really enjoying your posts...as the best Marine four star I served with said to me often, “Press on.”

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Drib: Yes, that is the exact "Producers" quote. I do the best I can, from memory. Now, before I know it--will provide lines from another great Greg Peck movie: "The Big Country" with Jean Simmons and Chuck Conners. Oh, have we ever wandered off-thread. So what.

The Beryl Ives character opines: "Blanko Canyons going to run red with blood!". Somehow, will fit this into context in a further offering.

As to other Officers. Dinner tonight (BTW Miso glazed sea bass was on the menu) with Staff Engineering Officer and Personnel Officer and folks from USA and UK, included a retired British Colonel and his spouse. Of course, wife and I had the sea bass. Most pleasant, and compatible gathering. And, the single lady seated next to my wife and me will also be aboard our March 14, 2020 Splendor LA to Miami segment. Small world.

Great, high-energy show this evening in the Theater. Packed house. How those kids do it, I do not know. Actually, I get it, as our daughter is also in "the biz". The lead singer/dancer is known to us, as he and our daughter were in a show at Chicago some years ago. We will meet him for dinner in a few days (nights). These performers work extremely hard to deliver new shows. This was their premier performance, and it went off very well.

Now, must get to bed to prepare for the Main Event.

GOARMY!

Quick post at 1150H, local time. Mid-way through the Canal. Into the 8-mile "Cut" portion.

Plan on an early start to this day during your Canal transit. Like, get up NLT 0645H to see the Pilot boat link up; then view of Panama City; then under the Bridge of the Americas onto the first set of locks. This will happen around 0730-0800H.

As usual, stuff happens. First medical emergency requiring disembarkation of two passengers at the first set of Locks. About a 1/2 hour delay to complete that process. We will probably make up most of that time while crossing the Lake.

Good commentary provided by a local guy. The map given to each guest is a great asset and keepsake.

Best,

GOARMY!

Attention All: Cleared Canal, now in Carib. We made up most of lost-time. Posting at 1702H, local time.

What is relevant is, another wonderful experience. Weather was spotty, with intermittent rain showers. Not that big of a deal.

Bear with me. Two classic movies apply. First is: Citizen Kane, 1941. The Orson Welles character advises his "financial manager" that, though he might loose a Million dollars a year while owner of a NYC newspaper--that is of small matter. As Mr. Kane opines: "I will let you in on a little secret. It is true, I have lost a million dollars last year; I will loose a million dollars this year; and a million dollars next year. . . " The character concludes that at that rate of loss, his family's fortune may dissipate in, oh, 30 or 40 years.

Relevance: Here is a lesson we learned on a previous crossing, when the weather was really awful. The secret is, just take a screen shot of the Bridge camera from your room. Yes, it is pointed straight forward. But it is high, and dry. Try replication of that on deck in a rain squall and/or high wind. No, do not. Stay in your suite. Temperature and humidity were/are again what one would expect near the equator. It is great to retreat to one's suite, recuperate, and just snap the screen shot. Trust me: no one will know the difference when you post same to friends and family.

Second: Bridge on the River Kwai, 1957. William Holden, Alec Guinness, Sessue Hayakawa. The Hayakawa character admonishes his British prisoners (led by Guinness) that they should " . . . be happy in your work." That work was to build a railway bridge over a river in Thailand during WWII which would have supported the Japanese war effort. Anyway, not to get too-far in the weeds, view the movie. At one point, Hayakawa also states: "All work and no play makes Jack (British soldiers held in captivity) a dull boy."

Relevance. The last of three great bridges we just passed under is one still-under construction. It is located in the Carib side of the last set of locks. Got some great shots either outside, or from the Bridge camera, of the middle section--still vacant. A bit more to go. Hopefully, happy construction workers. Anticipated completion is early 2019. Those of you planning this itinerary in early to mid-2019 will probably view a completed, "happy" bridge.

It has been another great day aboard. Time for a shower; then dinner.

Best to all fellow travelers.

GOARMY!

 

2. Food presentation....... Had a delicious lunch today at Compass Rose. Ordered the "Saumon Grille" with champagne hollandaise. This is one of several Chartreuse Restaurant options offered. Same opportunities apply concerning Prime 7 and Pacific Rim appetizers or main courses. Something new to try each day from Chartreuse and Pacific Rim Restaurant menus even though those venues are not aboard Navigator. GOARMY!

Hi GOARMY,

As I will be boarding Navigator in a week, I am really enjoying your posts. Thanks for taking the time to post. Are the menu items from Chartreuse and Pacific Rim only offered at lunch in the Compass Rose?

Thanks

GOARMY, thanks for sharing your recommended time hacks during a PC transit.

We will be virgin PC crossers in October on the Mariner, and your suggestions are helpful.

Thanks again for taking time to share with us Jim.

Beth, et all: In a word, which is a stretch for me--Yes.

Perused this evening's Compass Rose menu. Did not see references to other Main Course or appetizer items usually associated with those Explorer, Voyager, or Mariner alternative restaurant venues. But, vaguely recall from earlier dining, perhaps at dinner. For sure, at lunch in Compass Rose. Thanks for reminding me to keep checking. Will keep all advised over the next few days--on our way to Columbia, then Jamaica, then NYC.

Concerning Columbia: We have tried this port-of-call three times in the past. Every planned excursion was canceled due to civil unrest. Hope fourth is the charm. Our Destinations Consultant advised this PM that all appears to be relatively calm. So, we will be good to go for an early Friday PM excursion.

Again, as this is our fifth Navigator cruise. Fair warning. There is no forwarding-looking, interior Lounge where one can scan the horizon. You do so by going outside forward on Deck 12 (golf course). Hope the weather cooperates. Today, it did, mostly. Just extremely hot and humid. A few rain showers, which reduced the heat. But, it came back. This is one of Navigator's realities. One adapts. Folks were very-accommodating to their fellow travels to afford access to unobstructed views to take pictures. There are plenty of spots on sides of Decks 11 and 10. Also, aft.

Another great Compass Rose dinner this PM.

Off to bed, and a run early AM tomorrow (Friday) on Deck 11 where folks will not be obstructing the track due to looking for a bridge, or lock.

Best,

GOARMY!

Quick update. Friday, 15 June, 1015H

Quite a thunderstorm and rain squall sometime around 0200H. Certainly woke us up. This AM, calm sea as we approach Cartagena, Columbia. City can be seen on the horizon. Fourth time will be the charm. No local unrest, thus allowing a museum tour in about three hours.

WesW: Army equivalent to your Marine General's outlook on life is: "Drive On!"

Other: Laundry service has been great, as expected. 24-hour turnaround.

That's it for now.

GOARMY!

Thansk so much for your ongoing posts. It is wonderful to 'travel' along with you.

Off to bed, and a run early AM tomorrow (Friday) on Deck 11 where folks will not be obstructing the track due to looking for a bridge, or lock.

Yes, how dare those people looking at what the American Society of Civil Engineers calls one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World get in the way of the runners.