Hi All PMC Members,
Our cruising experience to the Scandinavian and Baltic Countries has been just a magnificent combination of varied weather, scenery and people.
We left London for Dover in drizzle and encountered one of the wettest summers they have had in northern Europe for some time. Fortunately by the time we reached Dover Harbour 3 hours later some clouds had started to part and let in some sun. Andris was able to stand in full sun as we boarded the Pacific Princess for our cruise.
By the time we arrived in Amsterdam the weather was looking greatly improved and a day on the river cruise around the canals was a great possibility. The sun was out and shining brightly over the canals and flowers everywhere. Many sites along the canals and harbor displayed much of the wonderful architecture of the Danes. Many wanting to live in Amsterdam find that rents and purchase are too high and an alternative to such property is to own a river house boat. Although you still pay a mooring charge, this is a much lower cost to live in Amsterdam. However crossing the walkways can be a death trap with the “killer “ bikes that are more numerous that the citizens of Amsterdam. Look both ways when you are crossing or walking on footpaths of this city. As we spent the morning looking and driving around this city to inspect its many well known features, it was back to the ship for lunch and well needed nourishment.
The following day was spent at sea sailing the Kiel Canal. This set of manmade river locks provide a “short” 9 hour trip that saves a few days travel to get in to the Baltic Sea.While at sea there are many opportunities to learn new skills. A few of our group tried their hand at remote car skittles.Some were taking a very long time to cover the course while others made it around the course in seconds. However there was always the cheer squad to encourage all participants.
Dinners at sea are always the full 5 – 6 courses when sitting in the formal dinning room. It was tempting most nights to sample all courses. While at sea we have had 3 formal nights. This means we all can dress up in evening ware for ladies and formal dinner suits for men. We can then enjoy the special dinner menus and the great shows provided on board for all.
After our tasty dinners we move along to the Cabaret Lounge to be entertained with the ships dancing troupe, Princess Singers and Princess Big Band. For those who can stay the distance and return to the Casino Lounge for late night coffee and drinks the entertainment continues with our pianist and small band or dancing on the top deck late in to the night.
As we travel from one port to the next, the weather seems to be the same while each port shows us a different face of its people, trees and flowers. It is a great way to see a lot and not have to unpack each day. This allows time for sleeping and relaxing on our cruise.
Regards
Wendy and Andris.
