Live from the Sapphire: Nov 29-Dec 6th!

[NevadaHiRoller]

Yes..the actual area where you get your food is small. Same guy who designed my shower must have been in charge of that layout too! :D

I'm not talking about the seating area around it.

 

 

Yup it sure is. Some yahoo engineer is trying to argue with me on another thread telling me there's nothing wrong with the layout and that people should just go get one item at a time at a BUFFET because not all your items are served at once at a sit down dinner. ROFLMAO!!!!!! Some people never cease to amaze me. Anyhow, just try and avoid it and eat at the grill or dining room. That's what we do and we like that a lot better. Or go at off times, that helps the bump into factor at prime times in that small space.

[JPRLHR]

hey there gargoyle999,

 

 

 

next year we have the entire aft of the ship - 1 deck above on baja

(grand suite / ps suite / owner suite)

do u think the doors between the cabins on the balconies can be unlocked?

thanx for the info.

 

We just had the PS on Baja and there were doors on each side on the balcony to both the OS and PS so I don't see any reason why they can't be unlocked.

[cruiserbryce]

I'm down $2.00 in the casino...those slots are not hot today...:(

 

get out while you still can:Dspend the $100 on booze or a massage

[robgvic]

How is the air temperature? Is the pool covered now?

[gargoyle999]

nevada- I am typing from a laptop in my cabin! Though my blackberry has service so I could probably use that too…$$$. I went to the internet café to sign up. I didn’t try my laptop in my cabin until after I signed up. I thought you’d have to talk with someone to get going. But actually you just log on a computer and sign up online. So you don’t need to wait until the manager is around. Probably could have done the same from my laptop.

 

As has been mentioned there are plenty of X-mas trees around. I haven’t seen any holiday themed cocktails.

 

marcoigna- I’ll ask about the cabin dividers at the Purser’s Desk for you tomorrow! I know the divider between my cabin and the suite next to me could be opened.

 

irish…missed the meet and greet but looking forward to meeting you in Mazatlan! :)

 

cruiserbryce-wish I would have read you message sooner…I’m now down $42! Took my about 15 minutes to lose $40. Those slots don’t even give you a little back to make it fun. Might be done with the casino on this trip!

 

robgvic-I don’t know the actual air temperature but it has been warm and sunny. I had a tee shirt and shorts on at lunch and was wishing I was wearing one of my tank tops. When we went on the tour the lady told us they always keep the Calypso pool cover closed. It looked like it is retractable but I didn’t ask why they never open it if it can be opened. So yes, that one is covered.

[gargoyle999]

Had my first real disappointment on this cruise. I love cheeseburgers and fries. Went to the grill for the first time today for lunch and have to say I did not like either! I was shocked…the fries were overcooked and the cheeseburger maybe was overdone too. It just didn’t taste very good. So went and got some pizza and that was ok. Will have to give the grill one more chance though…

 

I just went to the buffet around 11:30pm to get something to eat. Yeah that layout is pretty crazy for almost 3,000 people.

Tonight was formal night. I wore my tux. We went to the Pacific Moon first but there was a line out the door so walked over to Santa Fe. No line but told it could be an hour for a table for two. Ok, we’ll wait. They give us a pager. Walked around a little then headed down to deck 5. Was looking over the cocktail menu when our pager went off. Was about a 20 minute wait.

 

That was our first time in the anytime dining. And I knew what to expect for a table for two but it still is a bit odd to be so close, yet so far away from those next to you. We’ll try a different dining room tomorrow. Hopefully won’t be so crazy as tonight, being the 1st formal night and all. It was very warm in the dining room and so after diner I had to go back to the cabin and change. I had planned to wear my tux the rest of the evening but no way. In general I think it has been very warm on board the ship. There were several guys still wearing their tux at the Piano Man show and I saw several taking off their jackets.

 

I ordered off the available anytime items. Shrimp cocktail and Fettuccini Alfredo with Cesar Salad. I liked all of that. DW had Mahi Mahi and Lobster Bisque. She said the fish was good, but thought the Lobster Bisque was just so-so. No bad, not great.

 

Went to see Scott Alexander, the magician/comedian show in the Explorers Lounge. Was pretty good. No Chris Angel, but an entertaining time. Then went to the late showing of Piano Man. It was ok. DW and I are wondering if they have some new performers. They didn’t seem to be entirely in sync with each other and some words were messed up when they were singing. Told DW at least we now know they aren’t lip syncing! But again it was an entertaining time. Thought about going to the late night adult comedy hypnosis show with Steve Bayner at midnight. But DW is nursing a bit of a cold she’s had since before our trip started, so decided to call it a night. DW would like Princess to get softer facial tissues! :D

 

BTW…just went to grab a soda and remembered I wanted to mention this, though it’s been said before. The little fridge in the cabin will keep things cool, not cold.

 

Tomorrow is another day at sea. We are going to have the Champagne Balcony Breakfast delivered at 9am!

 

So far the seas seem very calm and I've noticed the water is much bluer now! :)

[cuterlmt]

Thank you for your posts. We sail on December 13th and can hardly wait. My hubby wants to know what kind of slot machines they have in the casino. He likes to play keno and the penny slots. I like the penny slots with the bonus rounds. Also, let us know how you like the balcony breakfast. I've sold hubby on the balcony dinner (done it before, fantastic!), but would like to sell him on the breakfast.

Thanks!

[gargoyle999]

I know they have penny slots. I'm not sure about Keno. If we go back I'll take a look.

 

The Balcony Breakfast was very nice. I don't like smoked Salmon but I'm still full even though I didn't eat any. DW loves it and says it was very good. Had pastries and fruit and crab quiche. I would suggest you ask for some pats of butter when you order it. There were a couple croissants and a roll that could have used it. I ordered some orange juices and we made Mimosa's with the Champagne.

 

Again, very nice weather and very calm seas, not even any whitecaps right now. Can see land off the port side right now. In about 24 hours will be in Puerto Vallarta! :)

 

No real plans for today. So will likely just take a stroll around the ship, relax on the balcony, etc. They are going to have a Mexican buffet today so we'll check that out at lunchtime.

[NevadaHiRoller]

You must get the taquitos and a huge amount of the guacamole. It's yummy. Yes, their pastries are sorta dry aren't they? They aren't the best.

[NevadaHiRoller]

Also, while you are strolling around today, go check out the Wake View bar below Club Fusion.

[cruiser boo]

Hi : hope you are having a nice sea day. Have enjoyed your posts. When you put out your "breakfast door hangar" tonight would you mind putting down cranberry jce & let me know if you get it. My wife & I are big juice fans & have ordered 3-4 glasses every night for morning without problem. I have never been charged or refused but some say you can't do anymore. Thanks

[gargoyle999]

Went to the adult only deck in the aft of the ship and enjoyed some sunshine then searched around and finally found the mini-golf. We had some trouble finding it even though we were almost there when we were sunning ourselves!

 

We also made our way to the front of the ship and the upper level of the Promenade deck. It was surprisingly quiet and only a slight breeze. We happened to be sailing past the Arch in Cabo at the time so that was a nice view. We also saw dozens of Dolphins and even a Hammerhead Shark!

I’ve been wanting to stop by the piano bar so I think we may do that tonight after dinner.

 

Tomorrow is Puerto Vallarta. We booked the Las Caletas excursion with Sea Lion snorkel through Princess so looking forward to that.

 

marcoigna- I asked about the balcony dividers today. The Grand Suite is not connected, there is a beam there or something. The other two do have a divider that can be opened. In fact I don’t think you can get from the Grand Suite to the other two cabins without walking to the elevator bank, walking to the starboard side and walking back towards the aft.

 

nevada-we checked out the Wakeview on embarkation day. On our tour we were told that the original plan was to just have glass so you could actually get a great view of the wake. But due to safety issues (a large wave breaking them) it ended up only being portholes.

 

cruiser-sure I’ll order some cranberry juice for tomorrow and let you know what happens!

 

btw...still perfect weather and calm seas!! :)

[NevadaHiRoller]

Thanks enjoy what you are doing in PV, I hear it's awesome. We are going to do it next time.

[hotrockstar]

I'm so glad you're having a great time. I was on a month ago and it was very fun. Are Josh and Paul still the CD and DCD?

[TillThen]

Have you checked out the band in Club Fusion (Axis). We really enjoyed them on our cruise 2 weeks ago? Just wondering if they are still there, as I think there was a shift change happening - all the dancers left and new ones arrived, so just wondering if the band left too?

[B+S]

Gargoyle999,

 

You are thrilling some of us with your day by day reports! We will be kitty corner from your suite in a couple weeks and we're booked for Las Caletas while at PV as well - THANK YOU for the reports.

:D

[Momma Mojito]

Gargoyle 999 Have you checked out "Phoenix Rising in the Wheelhouse yet? We truly enjoyed them on the Caribbean Princess last year. Thanks for your dailey reports.

[gargoyle999]

Sorry for no report from yesterday. Had a fun day as Las Calates and was tired when we got back! Beautiful weather and a great time. Today is Mazatlan with a full day tour with Mazatlan Frank. I’ll try and post more details tonight. Last night I fell asleep on the balcony after dinner I was so tired!

Axis and Phoenix are still here. Haven’t checked them out yet, hoping to though. Still have three nights on board. Cruise directors are Josh and Leah.

B+S-C753 is not a suite. It’s a BB balcony cabin. I like it though and will book it again!

We are just pulling into port in Mazatlan. Going to go get ready, grab some breakfast in the buffet then head out to meet Mazatlan Frank!

 

oh...and perfect weather again. Mid 80's and mostly sunny. No way I want to go back to MN! :)

[lovevacadays]

Can't wait to hear about your day with Mazatlan Frank. We will be on tour with him next Wednesday.

Have a wonderful time on the remainder of your cruise

[cruiser boo]

Hope Matzalan was fun & not too humid. Did you get your cranberry juice?:confused:

thanks Cruiser boo

[golfguy.510]

Hey Gargoyle999!

 

Thanks for taking the time to post. I grew up in Mpls, will be on The Sapphire 12/6 and will be staying in C757, two cabins away from C753. You betcha I'm excited!

 

Don't want to rain (snow) on your parade, but, it was -9 degrees (Yup, that's a minus sign) in Embarass, MN this morning. It's gonna suck to be you in a few days.

(No offense, just some good natured kidding to a kindred spirit from the tundra)

 

Thanks again for the posts, I hope you're having a wonderful time.

[Bruin Steve]

Gargoyle...

I just wanted to post to thank you for this thread...It's allowing me to cruise vicariously a few weeks early...We'll be onboard in 23 days, 22 hours or thereabouts...

I don't think I'd have the patience or dedication to post as much as you are...if at all...

 

But I really appreciate reading your posts...It tells me so much about what to look for...

[wizard-of-roz]

We cruised on the Sapphire leaving November 15th. It was a very eventful cruise....because of the wildfires; the cruise left late (no real sailaway party).....Over 200 people were stranded on freeways and roadways....the air was acrid but the mood onboard and in the terminal building was wonderful and filled with the expected bliss of a week on the open seas......Princess staff were excellent in their service.

Once we hit the open seas and were away from the terrible sights and smells in the air.....it was glorious....Amazing how one can forget about the strife and worries in life, once the ship sets sail.......There's enough time, upon our return, to face the reality of life!

The ship is in wonderful condition....there is some outdoor carpeting, near the pizza station that needs to be replaced but I'm sure by our April cruise, next year...it won't look the same!

We pre-ordered cheese/crackers/chips/quacalmole and wine. Wow! Bring plastic bags to store the left overs. We could have had a party for 12, easily!

I loved this cruise. We were on the Lido deck - first time for us....it was close to pizza/hamburgers/pools and a walk (not an elevator ride to the ice cream and Horizon Court)....but, I would not stay on Lido again.

The hallways near the exit to the pool are very congested with people who use this as a shortcut and I don't like the congestion at the elevators....it's all about the pools/pizza and the outdoors for the "shortcutters" but, it was too busy for my liking!

When I'm cruising, I really like a slower pace and not so "hurried/rushed, gotta beat someone to the door" attitude! It's okay for some....not for me! :cool:

So, I'll stick to my usual aft cabin on Emerald.

The food was great....(the cookies and brownies were a welcomed dessert) in Horizon Court; they could use some help on the cakes/pies and other desserts. The fruit/cheese was outstanding. The main dishes were very tasty and although the layout leaves a lot to be desired, planning is the key to doing it right; don't go during the busiest times!

The staff is SUPERB!!!!! The entertainment was good, the comedian is OUTSTANDING! I could see him again and again! :D

The Captain was a true gentleman and with all the problems this cruise had, he always kept us apprised of what was going on and always made us feel that he was in complete control!!!!!!

The air in our cabin got very warm and was not working to its optimum.....one call to the front desk and it was taken care of....our Cabin Steward was one of the best we've ever had on any cruise.....

I am truly looking forward to April 18th, when we can sail the Sapphire, again! :)

[Bob Winters]

We cruised on the Sapphire leaving November 15th. It was a very eventful cruise....because of the wildfires; the cruise left late (no real sailaway party).....Over 200 people were stranded on freeways and roadways....the air was acrid but the mood onboard and in the terminal building was wonderful and filled with the expected bliss of a week on the open seas......Princess staff were excellent in their service.

 

Once we hit the open seas and were away from the terrible sights and smells in the air.....it was glorious....Amazing how one can forget about the strife and worries in life, once the ship sets sail.......There's enough time, upon our return, to face the reality of life!

 

The ship is in wonderful condition....there is some outdoor carpeting, near the pizza station that needs to be replaced but I'm sure by our April cruise, next year...it won't look the same!

 

We pre-ordered cheese/crackers/chips/quacalmole and wine. Wow! Bring plastic bags to store the left overs. We could have had a party for 12, easily!

 

I loved this cruise. We were on the Lido deck - first time for us....it was close to pizza/hamburgers/pools and a walk (not an elevator ride to the ice cream and Horizon Court)....but, I would not stay on Lido again.

 

The hallways near the exit to the pool are very congested with people who use this as a shortcut and I don't like the congestion at the elevators....it's all about the pools/pizza and the outdoors for the "shortcutters" but, it was too busy for my liking!

 

When I'm cruising, I really like a slower pace and not so "hurried/rushed, gotta beat someone to the door" attitude! It's okay for some....not for me! :cool:

 

So, I'll stick to my usual aft cabin on Emerald.

 

The food was great....(the cookies and brownies were a welcomed dessert) in Horizon Court; they could use some help on the cakes/pies and other desserts. The fruit/cheese was outstanding. The main dishes were very tasty and although the layout leaves a lot to be desired, planning is the key to doing it right; don't go during the busiest times!

 

The staff is SUPERB!!!!! The entertainment was good, the comedian is OUTSTANDING! I could see him again and again! :D

 

The Captain was a true gentleman and with all the problems this cruise had, he always kept us apprised of what was going on and always made us feel that he was in complete control!!!!!!

 

The air in our cabin got very warm and was not working to its optimum.....one call to the front desk and it was taken care of....our Cabin Steward was one of the best we've ever had on any cruise.....

 

I am truly looking forward to April 18th, when we can sail the Sapphire, again! :)

Thanks for the update Roz. My wife and I will be on the Sapphire in less than a month with 2 of my sisters and their husbands and my Mom and Dad who are both 87 years young and close to their 68th wedding anniversary. Right now I am trying to convince my Dad to get a motorized scooter to help him get around the ship. He says that he doesn't want to draw attention to his problems with walking.

Help.

Bob Winters

[Bruin Steve]

...Bring plastic bags to store the left overs...

 

Thanks, Roz...But this is one place you lose me...

Plastic bags for leftovers???

 

Ummm...I'm not keeping any leftovers...

Not like I can't find enough really great FRESH food to eat all cruise long...