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Decided to catch the ferry/taxi as recommended by our hotel man, to the cruise terminal. 30 minutes, a couple of stops - easy! Sadly, not so easy. Seems that there were 3 cruise ships leaving today. Average number of passengers 3000, the majority of which stayed in Venice last night. Therefore you can get a mental image, of how many people , with luggage the size of small trucks, were attempting to catch the taxi to the cruise terminal. It was far from being a pleasant trip. Totally overloaded with people and luggage, the boat struggled to move in a forward motion. We were sitting in a deck that was about water level and I could see john eyeing off the best way out should we go under. I too was trying to work out if my hips could fit through the window - it was not a relaxing ride! Thankfully our feet hit solid ground and we headed towards check in to our ship. Now I would like to state now, that the majority of my blogs over the coming days are going to make me seem like a pretentious 'b' but as you all know I am not one, I can only say it as it is! The ship is gi-normous! About 18 stories high and very flash. There were people everywhere who were all trying to check in on opening time. We have booked suites in the Yacht Club and looked to see what we had been told would be a 'special' check in spot. Well it was embarrassing really. Red carpet met us on the wharf and we were welcomed warmly. Our luggage was tagged and whisked away and at this stage I was trying not to make eye contact with the throngs who were lined up for miles! We were ushered into a private room on the wharf where we were served champagne and canapés whilst our passport details were processed. We were then whisked away via a secret passage, to a direct entry to level 15 of the ship - the yacht club! More champagne, dry martins (with olive) and introductions to our private butler - could this get any better! The room is gorgeous - the size of a regular motel room with a marble bathroom and walk in robe. We have our own private restaurant where the wines and food are 'specially selected' every night, our own pool and private lounge area with entertainment. Private entry to the gym and spa area and complimentary drinks all cruise.I can't see us leaving Deck 15 too often. We have explored the entire ship - it is amazing. Only 12 months old so is absolutely sparkling! On leaving Venice, I have never seen a more beautiful sight. We thought it was amazing from ground level, but from Deck 18, cruising through the Grand Canal was breathtaking. It was like being in a helicopter just flying low over the city. My pics do not do it justice. Dinner - OMG - a sommelier who comes and discusses your wine choices and a 5 course meal worthy of 3 hats! Sorry, I will stop now as I imagine it is starting to become boring reading:) Tomorrow we visit Bari and have a rickshaw ride booked. Tomorrow arvo we have an hour massage and treatment at the spa. Sorry, have to away as our butler just delivered some chocolate dipped strawberries to have with our champagne! I could get used to this:) xx
- comments
Ruth b****! But loveable xx
Vickie Just finished cleaning the bathroom then read your blog. Very depressed. Where's my butler! xx
Kim Farrell Thinking of home every second minute:) x