OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 14 hours ago) and read 7958 times:
Welcome to my latest trip report. This one has taken a long time to compose due to the high volume of photos. As you know its my style so I hope you all enjoy them
Fellow Anetter Gareth and myself have a tradition over the last few years where we take a vacation together every February . For me I always need a break at that time to get through the Irish winter We always go through many options and last year we did a MSC cruise . As enjoyable as it was we wanted something a bit better this year in terms of service and food quality. I had been on NCL a few times before so when we saw a lovely cruise and the right price we decided to take it . We had looked at longhaul but after my marathon one month of travelling in November/December I wanted a short flight and more relaxation time.
As we were to depart from Barcelona we decided Aer Lingus direct flights were the way to go . When you are connecting to a cruise ship the same day non stop is the safest in case of delays etc....
So finally the day had come and it was time to pack my case and make my way to Dublin Airport. We had decided that as the flight was so early to stay overnight at the airport hotel. I took my normal bus to the airport and arrived early and was able to check in .
A few days before I had arranged to meet up with fellow Anetter EICVD for some spotting. So after dropping my bag it was time to meet up at Terminal One .
I decided to cut through Terminal 2 :
On arrival into Terminal One I sent an SMS to EICVD to let him know I was there. I had a few days before suggested something a bit crazy I talked him into getting a cheap FR flight to somewhere in the UK just to generate a boarding pass to get airside for better viewing and to stroll around airside. So we met up and then proceeded to the security control to scan our boarding passes. As soon as I scanned mine an error came up ''TOO EARLY'' . The flight was for that evening and we were well over 5 hours ahead of time. A nice lady from the security was all for letting us go through but her supervisor said no . She appologised and told us to come back later.
We were then wondering what to do and I was trying to think quickly of how to salvage our plans . I should have booked something not so late to avoid that problem but had not thought of it . I then suggested heading around to the airport road and spot from there for a while. An EK A330 was due to arrive so we decided that was the best action plan .
Emirates on approach :
A familiar livery to me :
Soon it was time for EK to depart :
A Turkish visitor :
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Reply 1, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 13 hours ago) and read 8090 times:
So after a while it was getting chilly so we decided to head to the Radission SAS for lunch . It was quite nice and more importantly warm . We then decided to take a walk to see what was in the hangers :
After a quick look we then made our way to Terminal 2 and decided we would try to get airside again . This time we were still early and it beeped the same message when the guy scanned it. He looked a bit confused spoke to his supervisor and then decided to let us through Pheww ....
So the only place to introduce a fellow Anetter to was of course the Chocolate Lounge
Our ''Faux'' flight as Jonas would say
So after a pleasant day and managing to get done what we had planned it was time to say goodbye and make our way to Terminal 1 arrivals.
Passing this on the way ! History coming around full circle one might say :
I left EICVD and made my way back to the hotel. Gareth was due to arrive in from Galway and after a while he turned up at the hotel and we decided to get some sleep as we would have an early start .
DATE : 18/FEB/2012
AIRLINE : AER LINGUS
ROUTE : DUBLIN - BARCELONA
FLIGHT : EI 562
CLASS : ECONOMY
SEAT : 29 D F
AIRCRAFT : AIRBUS A320
REG : EI - EDP
At around 4am the alarms went off and it was time to head to Terminal 2 . :
Check in was quick and soon we were making our way to departure :
No Chocolate lounge today too early but I had my fix the day before
Time to check out the Aer Lingus Gold Circle club :
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Reply 2, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 13 hours ago) and read 8042 times:
Soon it was time to head to the boarding gate :
Boarding was called and we were one of the first to board :
This Ex: Iberia aircraft still has its own interior :
Gareth showing off the legroom :
To get myself in the mood I decided to have a read of our cruise document :
After we had completed boarding the doors were shut and safety demo commenced. It was really windy outside and torrential rain was bouncing off the tarmac outside. Certainly a nice time to be leaving
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Reply 3, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 13 hours ago) and read 8035 times:
After take off Gareth and I were wanting to buy the hot breakfast. For us it was worth it as we didnt have time to get anything more substantial other than the snacks in the lounge.
We both ordered our breakfasts and ten minutes later it arrived.
After a while the on board shop came around and I wanted to buy the retro model :
For the remainder of the flight I just watched videos on my iPad .
After a while we were making our way to BCN and passing some very familiar sights to me :
The coastline of Barelona area :
Bareclona port and our ship waiting for us
Final decent into BCN :
We made our way to our stand and do my delight something quite interesting for me :
Time to disembark the aircraft and thank the crew for a nice flight .
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Reply 4, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 13 hours ago) and read 8023 times:
We were bused to the terminal and then made our way to the baggage reclaim area where our bags were off quite quickly .
Waiting for us in the arrivals was our friendly NCL Rep who would take us to the ship in Barcelona port.
After around half an hour were could see our vacation for the next 9 nights and were very excited .
We disembarked the bus and made our way to the priority check in for Lattitudes members. After a few minutes we were checked in and making our way onboard.
Great to be on NCL again . Some of the decor at first is quite in your face but when you are actually there inside the ship it actually works .
NCLs dining concept which I love. You can pre book or just turn up and dine when you want. The TV screens show you whats full or which restaurant has wait time. If there is wait time they give you a pager and you go and have a drink for 15-20 minutes. They can page you when your table is ready . Great concept by NCL .
Hawaii in the Med :
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Reply 6, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 13 hours ago) and read 7968 times:
One thing I like about the NCL ships are the bridge viewing area. During important proceedures the blinds are pulled down but all other times during the day the access is open to all which is a nice touch and helps passengers to understand the workings of the bridge.
This was to be our 24 hour dining location and we used it at all hours
Something for EICVD
This will feature and became one of our favourite dining experiences. :
Anetters meet Cnetters :
The main theatre venue :
Fancy loosing some money :
Always good to know where these are :
This made us smile :
Views from the top deck :
This tour was thirsty work so we needed something to drink . Where else better to start than the Champagne bar
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Reply 7, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 13 hours ago) and read 7907 times:
Our lovely bar tender from Barbados who turned out to be half Guyanese We got on really well and became good friends during the cruise .
Greek beer too
Soon after it was time to return to our staterooms and get our life jackets for the compulsory safety drill. Events on the Costa Concordia have shown us how important this is and the crew took it very seriously as you would expect.
After a while we had been briefed and we were allowed to leave .
Soon it was time to get ready for that evening and we had decided to dine at the famous Teppanyaki restaurant where they cook in front of you . The first night is always a good time to go as other nights it tends to be very busy.
We arrived at the restaurant and to our delight we were the only ones there and would have a private chef to cook for us .
Gareth and I enjoyed the experience so much and we came out feeling totally full and agreed it was a unique experience.
We were quite tired and so decided to head to bed. The next two days would be at sea so we could relax.
The next morning we woke up and had a lovely view from our balcony.
We decided head to the main restaurant for breakfast where we got a lovely table at the aft of the ship.
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Reply 8, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 13 hours ago) and read 7903 times:
Too much to choose from
After a lovely breakfast it was time to walk it all off
Time flies on these ships and soon it was time for lunch
For me the pièce de résistance or my down fall one might say :
Time to walk it off again I love the below shot it makes me calm .
Everyday there was a BBQ for those who wanted to eat something quickly by the pool :
Arranging towels into animals :
Outdoor games :
never get lost :
A change in time zones :
That night we decided to dine in the main restaurant and the food was pleasant enough :
After a nice dinner a nice walk outside on deck and all lit up .
This guys is the end of this part of the trip . I will be splitting this report up due to the volume of photos.
Thanks for reading so far and I trust you all enjoyed it ??
Aer Lingus offered a quick and hassle free way to get to the ship and the crew were in their usual style friendly and efficient. The price paid for the ticket was fair for the service provided. The Aer Lingus Gold Circle lounge is a very pleasant place to kill time before your flight.
The next part of my trip will focus on more aviation highlights including spotting at some cool airports and an aviation museum .
Thanks for reading and I appreciate all your comments as usual .
Regards
OA260 / Philip
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
gpbcroppers63 From Ireland, joined Jan 2008, 511 posts, RR: 0 Reply 9, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 13 hours ago) and read 7827 times:
Thanks for finally getting the report of our amazing trip up mate. Can't wait for the next parts. You've really done it justice and brought back some amazing memories of a fabulous trip on a gorgeous ship!
Looking forward to our next trip together.
Gareth
According to one of my colleagues, my problem is that I'm addicted to travel!
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Reply 10, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 13 hours ago) and read 7793 times:
Hey Gareth that was quick LOL...
Quoting gpbcroppers63 (Reply 9): Thanks for finally getting the report of our amazing trip up mate. Can't wait for the next parts. You've really done it justice and brought back some amazing memories of a fabulous trip on a gorgeous ship!
Looking forward to our next trip together.
Yeah sorry for the huge delay its just been ages since I got all this time free to upload all these pics and to write it . I know it was out of sequence compared to my trips recently but this was a marathon to do
Was nice though as it also brought back some good memories writing it . Still more to come in the next part .
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
Quoting Dublinspotter (Reply 11): I personally have never been on a cruise so I don't know much about them. But they certainly look like a very very nice place to be.
I would love to go on one but sadly the cost is the bad side, ha ha, I also always forget how "luxurious" and its facilities it has on board!
Although I have one question: Is it possible to feel the ship swaying side to side or is it as sooth as it is on the normal ground?
The cruises are not that expensive these days . You can even get 2 and 3 night ones from the UK for GBP199 so dont rule it out You rarely feel the motion only on choppy waters . Certainly not enough to get sick.
Quoting Dublinspotter (Reply 11): Loved the photos of the ship and your EI flight! Are there many EI aircraft with that interior? I kinda like it!
I believe there were a few but cant be sure. Have not kept upto date with it . Gareth might know ?
Quoting TravelsUK (Reply 12): I'm sorry to say it but that ship looks just like a floating Butlins, not my taste one bit!
Hi thanks for the reply. Well its not like that onboard I can assure you. I know the look of the ship can be a bit off putting to someone that would be into Silversea/Crystal etc.. but it really was a nice cruise and entertainment and food was top notch. My idea of Butlins would be Thomson / TUI etc... I would not be seen dead on those.
I mostly enjoy all ships I go on with some exceptions and find that sometimes I want something really plush and conservative but other times I want something informal and different. Having done most major cruise lines and some smaller cruises over the years I have to say NCL would be a pretty decent line.
Quoting TravelsUK (Reply 12): Aer Lingus breakfast looks good, far better than many other airlines so called 'Full English'!
Indeed your right there EI offer a very decent European product. Something that makes me take them for times like this .
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
gabrielchew From United Kingdom, joined Aug 2005, 2512 posts, RR: 13 Reply 14, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 9 hours ago) and read 7079 times:
You weren't lying about the number of photos! Wow. Cruise looked wonderful, going to have to try it one day. And the food.....lucky I'm eating dinner as I read, otherwise I'd be quite upset!
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): As soon as I scanned mine an error came up ''TOO EARLY'' . The flight was for that evening and we were well over 5 hours ahead of time. A nice lady from the security was all for letting us go through but her supervisor said no . She appologised and told us to come back later.
That was mean of her. Surely the airport authority would rather people were trapped inside spending money, than idly hanging around outside.
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): We both ordered our breakfasts and ten minutes later it arrived.
Looks pretty tasty. How come you got a real china cup...is that standard?
teahan From Belgium, joined Nov 1999, 5264 posts, RR: 63 Reply 15, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 9 hours ago) and read 7066 times:
Great report!
Quoting OA260 (Reply 13): The cruises are not that expensive these days . You can even get 2 and 3 night ones from the UK for GBP199 so dont rule it out You rarely feel the motion only on choppy waters . Certainly not enough to get sick.
That's exactly what I said after my Mediterranean cruise last summer... until I did another one this April. Had three very rough nights, which felt significantly worse than some crossings I've done from Rosslare/Cork to Cherbourg (and I am one to usually enjoy some rough water).
Goodbye SR-LX MD-11 / 6th of March 1991 to the 31st of October 2004
gpbcroppers63 From Ireland, joined Jan 2008, 511 posts, RR: 0 Reply 16, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 9 hours ago) and read 7056 times:
Quoting OA260 (Reply 10): Yeah sorry for the huge delay its just been ages since I got all this time free to upload all these pics and to write it
No worries mate. It was well worth the wait and much better than I would have done.
Quoting OA260 (Reply 10): Was nice though as it also brought back some good memories writing it
Yeah it brought back amazing memories reading it too.
Quoting OA260 (Reply 10): Still more to come in the next part
Can't wait for you to showcase the next part of our adventure.
Quoting Dublinspotter (Reply 11): I personally have never been on a cruise so I don't know much about them. But they certainly look like a very very nice place to be.
I highly recommend it. Great ship, fabulous food and amazing company makes for memories that will last a lifetime.
Quoting Dublinspotter (Reply 11): Is it possible to feel the ship swaying side to side or is it as sooth as it is on the normal ground?
There's no proper answer to this except to say it depends on the ship. As a rule of thumb, the bigger the ship, the better but that still doesn't tell the whole story. For example, the MSC Splendida that Philip and I went on last year handled the sea much worse than the Norwegian Jade even though the MSC ship is bigger. If you're at all worried about the motion of a ship, I would go on a cruise in the Mediterranean as the sea is so calm there that you won't feel it moving at all.
There are two aircraft with this interior I believe. They were ordered by Iberia but not taken up so EI took them. Their interiors had already been done to IB specifications though so they kept their seats. When they first joined the EI fleet, they had 30 rows and the legroom was really tight. EI have since removed a row of seats from them so that they now have the standard 29 rows that all EI A320s have and they are much more comfortable for it. Hope that helps.
Quoting TravelsUK (Reply 12): I'm sorry to say it but that ship looks just like a floating Butlins, not my taste one bit!
I must admit, I was very unsure of the decor when I first boarded. I'm used to more conservative cruise lines and really didn't know whether I liked it at all. It took me all of about half an hour to get used to it and from then on, I loved it! You have to experience it in the flesh before you can make your mind up. Pictures are great but they don't tell the whole story. It looks gaudy at first but for some reason, it just works. Norwegian Jade is a gorgeous ship that I would travel on again at the drop of a hat!
According to one of my colleagues, my problem is that I'm addicted to travel!
eicvd From Ireland, joined Mar 2008, 2068 posts, RR: 5 Reply 17, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 9 hours ago) and read 7026 times:
Hi Philip
As usual an excellent report & enjoyable read. Brought back some nice memories. Was a shame we were "too early" going through security but was still a very enjoyable day Look forward to part 2.
Dublin, where Sam Maguire will be coming home to in mid September
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Reply 18, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 8 hours ago) and read 7018 times:
Quoting gabrielchew (Reply 14): You weren't lying about the number of photos! Wow. Cruise looked wonderful, going to have to try it one day. And the food.....lucky I'm eating dinner as I read, otherwise I'd be quite upset!
Hey indeed thats why I needed to split it LOL... Yeah food glourious food .
Quoting gabrielchew (Reply 14): That was mean of her. Surely the airport authority would rather people were trapped inside spending money, than idly hanging around outside.
Yeah well I guess they have the rule for a reason but I cant believe tons of people turn up for departures so far in advance so the supervisor could have made an exception but it turned out well in the end. We did spend money airside too.
Quoting gabrielchew (Reply 14): Looks pretty tasty. How come you got a real china cup...is that standard?
Quoting teahan (Reply 15): That's exactly what I said after my Mediterranean cruise last summer... until I did another one this April. Had three very rough nights, which felt significantly worse than some crossings I've done from Rosslare/Cork to Cherbourg (and I am one to usually enjoy some rough water).
Yeah there are always exceptions. Also as Gareth said it depends on the ship itself. Some are better at handling conditions than others. I once did November transatlantic from Barcelona to Miami and people thought I was mad. Apart from a few rocky nights I got the smoothest crossing and best tan ever .
Quoting gpbcroppers63 (Reply 16): Can't wait for you to showcase the next part of our adventure.
Yeah just looked and some fab pics to come . Will get working on it .
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
haha thanks mate for taking the blame ... even if I was wanting it as much as you
Quoting jwhite9185 (Reply 20): After my experience in there last month, i totally agree! Be interesting how the BMI lounge at LHR compares when i go there at the weekend.
You using the International or the Domestic one ?
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
cruiseshipcrew From United States of America, joined Aug 2008, 189 posts, RR: 1 Reply 24, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 6 hours ago) and read 6549 times:
Love the photos of the Jade. I spent a lot of time on her in the Med and back when she was the Pride of Hawaii. The interior looks bright in the photos but it flows really well in person. The Grand Pacific dining room is beautiful.
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Reply 25, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 6 hours ago) and read 6533 times:
Quoting gpbcroppers63 (Reply 22): Yeah you just don't have the bottle to nick things.
Will put my order in then so
Quoting jwhite9185 (Reply 23): International on one of their now famous cheapo business fares to nice.
Arr nice one . You will love it I have been there many times . Go there as early as possible and get 3-4 hours there if you can . Fab spotting chances and nice food and drink Breakfast is really nice .
Quoting cruiseshipcrew (Reply 24): Love the photos of the Jade. I spent a lot of time on her in the Med and back when she was the Pride of Hawaii. The interior looks bright in the photos but it flows really well in person. The Grand Pacific dining room is beautiful.
Hi James thanks . I love her too . Would go back in the morning if I could. Yeah the GP is great and lovely staff. I found the staff from Phillipines and Peru so eager to offer a top class service too . I loved them all so much. We made some good friends on Jade.
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
gpbcroppers63 From Ireland, joined Jan 2008, 511 posts, RR: 0 Reply 27, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 5 hours ago) and read 6453 times:
Quoting cruiseshipcrew (Reply 24): Love the photos of the Jade. I spent a lot of time on her in the Med and back when she was the Pride of Hawaii. The interior looks bright in the photos but it flows really well in person. The Grand Pacific dining room is beautiful.
Hi James,
Just to add my comment to this. She is an absolutely stunning ship. You're right about the interior. It looks gaudy on the pics and when you see it first but it does work so well. As Philip said, I'd go back on her tomorrow. The crew were wonderful as well. As Philip said above, we made some great friends with many of them. What ship are you on these days?
Gareth
According to one of my colleagues, my problem is that I'm addicted to travel!
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Reply 28, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 2 hours ago) and read 6117 times:
Quoting EIRules (Reply 26): An incredibly detailed report as always Philip. Still dont envy you on that cruise ship, but the food at least looked nice!!!
Hey Andrew thanks for the reply. Yeah the food was good. So you still didnt change your mind about the cruise ships I see Never did get you on one lol...
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
Bananaboy From United Kingdom, joined Oct 2004, 1558 posts, RR: 26 Reply 29, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 2 hours ago) and read 6060 times:
Great report - thanks for posting. Was nice to see Norwegian Jade - I didn't spend much time on her as I wasn't with NCL when she was ex-Southampton, but did get to look round her one time. I love that they still have lots of elements that tie her back to her days as Pride of Hawaii.
Surprised to see evidence of the old branding still in use - I thought that they would have changed it all over by now.
Mark
All my life, I've been kissing, your top lip 'cause your bottom one's missing
sultanils From Belgium, joined Mar 2010, 1173 posts, RR: 29 Reply 30, posted (1 year 1 week 5 days 17 hours ago) and read 5661 times:
Hi Philip,
Nice read... err viewing. Although I feel there are maybe a few pics too many not on topic (the cruise...) But as you know, I'm in no means a boat fan, dizziness and nausea struck me instantly just by looking at the photos I'm however delighted to see you back again on the Irish national, that has been quite some time now, has it? Great pics on arrival into BCN, but that's to be expected.
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): I talked him into getting a cheap FR flight to somewhere in the UK just to generate a boarding pass to get airside for better viewing and to stroll around airside.
Ha ha, that's a clever - although costly - way to gain access to the air side. Were your names not called for boarding to MAN?
jwhite9185 From United Kingdom, joined May 2007, 719 posts, RR: 0 Reply 31, posted (1 year 1 week 5 days 7 hours ago) and read 5189 times:
Quoting OA260 (Reply 25): Quoting jwhite9185 (Reply 23):
International on one of their now famous cheapo business fares to nice.
Arr nice one . You will love it I have been there many times . Go there as early as possible and get 3-4 hours there if you can . Fab spotting chances and nice food and drink Breakfast is really nice
I'd like to get i there nice and early, but the first coach gets me there at about 6:45 and my flight departs at 09:15 so by the time I've got through security, and then been called for boarding etc i'll probably only have about 90 mins or so.
Quoting Bananaboy (Reply 29): Surprised to see evidence of the old branding still in use - I thought that they would have changed it all over by now.
Yes I was too but I loved seeing it as it brought the history of the ship to mind. Maybe thats why they have left it like that . I just felt so at home there as I had been on the other NCL ships and the layout was similar if not the same.
Quoting sultanils (Reply 30): Although I feel there are maybe a few pics too many not on topic (the cruise...) But as you know, I'm in no means a boat fan
Haha Nils you have to understand to me cruise ships are as important as Airlines so its all about a balance and I used to do alot more cruise ship TRs a few years ago . If you think this was bad look back at some Lucky there are a good few Anetters who are Aviation and cruise freaks like me
Quoting sultanils (Reply 30): a ha, that's a clever - although costly - way to gain access to the air side. Were your names not called for boarding to MAN?
Well at 10pm we were long gone With FR I doubt it LOL....
Yep and thank god I finally found the right balance
Quoting sultanils (Reply 30): It looks dull and uninviting if you ask me. Or is it just the lack of natural light?
I can see your point but inside in real life its not so dull. I quite liked the interior but then again I was too tired to care at 6am
Quoting jwhite9185 (Reply 31): I'd like to get i there nice and early, but the first coach gets me there at about 6:45 and my flight departs at 09:15 so by the time I've got through security, and then been called for boarding etc i'll probably only have about 90 mins or so.
Arr ok well rush through security and get to the lounge so as not to waste too much time. You will enjoy it Im sure and will be impressed. I look forward to reading your report.
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
Bananaboy From United Kingdom, joined Oct 2004, 1558 posts, RR: 26 Reply 33, posted (1 year 1 week 5 days ago) and read 4918 times:
Quoting OA260 (Reply 32): Yes I was too but I loved seeing it as it brought the history of the ship to mind.
I was more referring to the "voice" that NCL use on printed material - i.e the old swirly writing that you saw on the notice about not throwing anything overboard and the time change notice. The new style is as per the TV screen with the restaurants on and the laundry special offer leaflet in one of your photos.
Nice to see that they also have the new logo on the funnel.
Also, did you try Moderno? It's my favourite of all of their restaurants.
Mark
All my life, I've been kissing, your top lip 'cause your bottom one's missing
cruiseshipcrew From United States of America, joined Aug 2008, 189 posts, RR: 1 Reply 34, posted (1 year 1 week 4 days 21 hours ago) and read 4854 times:
Quoting Bananaboy (Reply 33): I was more referring to the "voice" that NCL use on printed material - i.e the old swirly writing that you saw on the notice about not throwing anything overboard and the time change notice. The new style is as per the TV screen with the restaurants on and the laundry special offer leaflet in one of your photos.
Nice to see that they also have the new logo on the funnel.
The old font and feel was called NCL Freestyle, the new font is called NCL Jamie. If you notice changing over the smoke stack logo was very easy, just two coats of paint! They changed it on my last ship in about a weeks time which was really impressive considering they kept cancelling our dry dock!
cruiseshipcrew From United States of America, joined Aug 2008, 189 posts, RR: 1 Reply 35, posted (1 year 1 week 4 days 21 hours ago) and read 4847 times:
Quoting OA260 (Reply 32): I just felt so at home there as I had been on the other NCL ships and the layout was similar if not the same.
The Jewel and Jade are exactly the same. The Pearl and Gem have some differences but still very similar. Even the Dawn and Star have some features that were passed onto the Jewel Class design.
signol From United Kingdom, joined Oct 2007, 2948 posts, RR: 7 Reply 36, posted (1 year 1 week 4 days 21 hours ago) and read 4826 times:
Hi Philip,
nice report, thanks!
Nice idea to go airside for a few EUR, as long as there are bargain flights on that day A bit like a "platform ticket" on the railways, now we have ticket barriers everywhere.
Good service on EI, how was the (famous) breakfast?
The ship looks great, how was the cruise itself, or am I getting ahead of myself? Flying Finn will be catching you up soon with the amount of ships he's been reporting on recently!
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 24894 posts, RR: 60 Reply 38, posted (1 year 1 week 4 days 16 hours ago) and read 4652 times:
Quoting Bananaboy (Reply 33): I was more referring to the "voice" that NCL use on printed material - i.e the old swirly writing that you saw on the notice about not throwing anything overboard and the time change notice. The new style is as per the TV screen with the restaurants on and the laundry special offer leaflet in one of your photos.
Nice to see that they also have the new logo on the funnel.
Arr ok . I wouldnt have noticed the finer details like that They are the less obvious ones thanks for pointing them out .
Quoting Bananaboy (Reply 33): Also, did you try Moderno? It's my favourite of all of their restaurants.
Indeed we did and it will be featuring in part 2
Quoting cruiseshipcrew (Reply 35): The Jewel and Jade are exactly the same. The Pearl and Gem have some differences but still very similar. Even the Dawn and Star have some features that were passed onto the Jewel Class design.
I think it was the Jewel I was on so that makes sense.
Quoting signol (Reply 36): nice report, thanks!
Nice idea to go airside for a few EUR, as long as there are bargain flights on that day A bit like a "platform ticket" on the railways, now we have ticket barriers everywhere.
Hi thanks for the reply. God just about remember those as a kid and the slammer door trains LOL...
Quoting signol (Reply 36): Good service on EI, how was the (famous) breakfast?
It was very good and well worth the money . They have reduced the price now apparantly.
Quoting signol (Reply 36): The ship looks great, how was the cruise itself, or am I getting ahead of myself? Flying Finn will be catching you up soon with the amount of ships he's been reporting on recently!
Yes loved the ship . Yes ships and aviation are a good combo .
Quoting SOBHI51 (Reply 37): Philip, i always enjoy your trip reports and this time is no exemption.
Great TR and the pictures are a beauty. Thank you.
Hi and thanks for the kind comment its much appreciated and I hope you like part 2 when I get it up soon .
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
FlyingFinn76 From Finland, joined Jun 2009, 1705 posts, RR: 41 Reply 39, posted (1 year 1 week 4 days 9 hours ago) and read 4443 times:
Hi Phil,
I think you went quite overboard (pun intended) with your pictures this time. It took me three days to go thru this one! Still lots of very nice shots there. Good for you to enjoy the cruise life, I still think this kind of vacation is not for me - too decadent and wasteful and too much overindulgence in everything.
MSS658 From Belgium, joined Oct 2010, 2212 posts, RR: 14 Reply 41, posted (1 year 1 week 3 days 9 hours ago) and read 3999 times:
Hi Philip
Great trip report, thanks for sharing.
EI's 320 looks nice and fresh.
The cruise pics bring me in a holiday mood, especially with this blahty spring weather here in Belgium.
lukeyboy95 From Papua New Guinea, joined Apr 2008, 951 posts, RR: 35 Reply 42, posted (1 year 1 week 3 days 6 hours ago) and read 3888 times:
Hi Philip!
It was nice to see your photo series of the Emirates flight pushing back as I remember the move vividly when I was onboard. I'm not sure - was this the A330? Didn't last long... if DUB continues to perform it could be a good contender for an A380 though I might be getting ahead of myself!
I can't say the cruise is for me just yet. I might feel a bit trapped whilst I am still a wild thing. But I suspect as I get older I might relish the relaxation this can offer.
reifel From Germany, joined Feb 2005, 1135 posts, RR: 1 Reply 44, posted (1 year 1 week 2 days 16 hours ago) and read 3678 times:
Great report, glad you enjoyed your NCL cruise.
The ship still has some remainders from her Pride of Hawaii time as you spottet correctly. I was unaware they haven'T changed the NCL America bins Did you realize that on the carpet on the cabin corridors the Dolphins are showing Forward? It helps to know if you are going Fwd or Aft on the ship
I absolutely love the Cheesecake, but they don't serve it in the 24 hours venue on all ships. Teppanyaki is indeed great but quite a garlic affair Looking forward to the second part.
adamspotter From Netherlands, joined Feb 2011, 776 posts, RR: 2 Reply 45, posted (1 year 1 week 2 days 15 hours ago) and read 3643 times:
Hi Phillip,
Another excellent report with very nice pictures! Nice lounge and spotting pictures from DUB The cruise ship looks great too, sure want to take a cruise sometime myself!
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): I had a few days before suggested something a bit crazy I talked him into getting a cheap FR flight to somewhere in the UK just to generate a boarding pass to get airside for better viewing and to stroll around airside
Very clever idea hehe, too bad you weren''t allowed airside earlier
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): So the only place to introduce a fellow Anetter to was of course the Chocolate Lounge
Wow, that looks great
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): After a while the on board shop came around and I wanted to buy the retro model
great choice
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): We made our way to our stand and do my delight something quite interesting for me
Very interesting indeed, saw that one myself last weekend in BCN
Quoting FlyingFinn76 (Reply 39): I think you went quite overboard (pun intended) with your pictures this time. It took me three days to go thru this one! Still lots of very nice shots there. Good for you to enjoy the cruise life, I still think this kind of vacation is not for me - too decadent and wasteful and too much overindulgence in everything.
Haha . Sorry about that but needs must You should try a mini one sometime you might be surprised especially if you pick the right one . The stops you could get out for the day and go spotting
Quoting 817Dreamliiner (Reply 40): This made me reminisce my Royal Caribbean cruise I took in 2008 . Would love to be able to do another someday
Really what ship were you on ? I love RCI too and Celebrity.
Quoting lukeyboy95 (Reply 42): It was nice to see your photo series of the Emirates flight pushing back as I remember the move vividly when I was onboard. I'm not sure - was this the A330? Didn't last long... if DUB continues to perform it could be a good contender for an A380 though I might be getting ahead of myself!
Yes it was the A330 back then . Sadly at the moment DUB cant handle an A380 and I doubt it will come unless its doing touch and go for a display one day .
Quoting lukeyboy95 (Reply 42): I might feel a bit trapped whilst I am still a wild thing. But I suspect as I get older I might relish the relaxation this can offer.
Yeah your too much of a young adventurer. I was up until a few years ago . Now I prefer the quiet life lol...
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 43): All that food looks excellent, what a torture!
Yes too much so you have to have some self control.
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 43): Quite disappointing to see that the once IB-intended frames are still equipped with the original cabin.
true but sometimes its nice to see a different cabin when you are used to the same all the time. It was comfortable none the less.
Quoting reifel (Reply 44): The ship still has some remainders from her Pride of Hawaii time as you spottet correctly. I was unaware they haven'T changed the NCL America bins Did you realize that on the carpet on the cabin corridors the Dolphins are showing Forward? It helps to know if you are going Fwd or Aft on the ship
I absolutely love the Cheesecake, but they don't serve it in the 24 hours venue on all ships. Teppanyaki is indeed great but quite a garlic affair Looking forward to the second part.
Hey thanks for the info and no I did not realise that . Its amazing you can go on ships all the time and miss minor details like that . I guess I need to pay more attention .
Quoting adamspotter (Reply 45): The cruise ship looks great too, sure want to take a cruise sometime myself!
Well not so hard for you they have mini cruises to the UK from Amsterdam and Rotterdam I did one myself a few years back . A nice trip and loved the scenary coming out of Amsterdam passing the villages before entering the open sea.
Quoting adamspotter (Reply 45): Very interesting indeed, saw that one myself last weekend in BCN
cheers,
Yes would be even better to get on it
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
akhmad From Netherlands, joined Sep 2005, 2332 posts, RR: 53 Reply 47, posted (1 year 1 week 1 day 13 hours ago) and read 3418 times:
My friend Philip,
After two hours working out at the gym last morning, I am all set to join you, no matter how many gorgeous pictures I need to admire .
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): We had looked at longhaul but after my marathon one month of travelling in November/December I wanted a short flight and more relaxation time.
Understandable. How about a cruise along my home country for February next year?
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): I talked him into getting a cheap FR flight to somewhere in the UK just to generate a boarding pass to get airside for better viewing and to stroll around airside.
You are one of a kind.
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): A nice lady from the security was all for letting us go through but her supervisor said no . She appologised and told us to come back later.
Pity. Nevertheless, she did her best to be accommodating.
I did not know EK has a short turnaround time in DUB.
Quoting OA260 (Reply 1): He looked a bit confused spoke to his supervisor and then decided to let us through Pheww ....
Was it the same supervisor as your previous encounter?
Quoting OA260 (Reply 1): So the only place to introduce a fellow Anetter to was of course the Chocolate Lounge
I knew it! I just knew it!
Quoting OA260 (Reply 1): but I had my fix the day before
What about Gareth?
Quoting OA260 (Reply 3): We both ordered our breakfasts and ten minutes later it arrived.
It looks very delicious!
Quoting OA260 (Reply 3): Bareclona port and our ship waiting for us
Isn’t it nice to spot her from the air?
Quoting OA260 (Reply 4): If there is wait time they give you a pager and you go and have a drink for 15-20 minutes. They can page you when your table is ready .
Well-thought concept. Which one is more convenient by the way? The pre-book one or the walk in?
Quoting OA260 (Reply 5): of course for me some wonderful curry cooked by the crews Indian chefs
You make me hungry!
Quoting OA260 (Reply 5): Soon it was time to check out our living quarters for the next 9 nights and to make sure everything was acceptable .
Look at the spread “Put your luggage here” on your bed. What a nice gesture!
Quoting OA260 (Reply 5): I love the idea of split toilet and shower on NCLs ships.
Good to know, it’s designed to your convenience!
Quoting OA260 (Reply 5): The Spa , always a nice place to relax :
You did give a try, didn't you? Soothing massage or maybe sauna?
Quoting OA260 (Reply 5): Maybe something for you Suryo
Oh yes, definitely! I could spend a couple of hours for body workout there.
Quoting OA260 (Reply 6): This was to be our 24 hour dining location and we used it at all hours
817Dreamliiner From Montserrat, joined Jul 2008, 1404 posts, RR: 1 Reply 48, posted (1 year 1 week 1 day 13 hours ago) and read 3398 times:
Quoting OA260 (Reply 46):
Really what ship were you on ? I love RCI too and Celebrity.
I was on the Enchantment of the Seas, did a 5 day cruise out of FLL to Key West, Cozumel and Belize, was really nice! They also had the towel animals as well!
Blast Reality, Burst it into shreds! Banishment, This World!
roberts87 From Netherlands, joined Dec 2011, 660 posts, RR: 0 Reply 49, posted (1 year 1 week 1 day 10 hours ago) and read 3313 times:
Nice report as usual. I enjoyed the trip of the cruise ship as well. Look forward to the next parts!
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): As soon as I scanned mine an error came up ''TOO EARLY'' . The flight was for that evening and we were well over 5 hours ahead of time
Never heard that before... I wonder from what time on can get airside?
Quoting OA260 (Reply 3): We both ordered our breakfasts and ten minutes later it arrived.
How did it taste? Doesn't look all that good.
Quoting OA260 (Reply 3): Bareclona port and our ship waiting for us
That for sure looks impressive for being the last row.
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): We both ordered our breakfasts and ten minutes later it arrived.
Again, EI manages to impress. Breakfast looks fantastic, and the cup is a nice touch too. Are they standard these days? How much was the breakfast, and also possible to order online when booking?
"Wheels Up!"
//Jonas
I won't stop complaining until SAS reintroduces free service in Economy Class!
infodesk From Switzerland, joined May 2006, 1241 posts, RR: 34 Reply 52, posted (1 year 2 days 8 hours ago) and read 2478 times:
Hi Philip,
Great to read about your latest adventures and get another insight into cruise ship life.
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): I had a few days before suggested something a bit crazy I talked him into getting a cheap FR flight to somewhere in the UK just to generate a boarding pass to get airside for better viewing and to stroll around airside.
What a good idea. Shame you had to wait a bit before you could go airside though.
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): So the only place to introduce a fellow Anetter to was of course the Chocolate Lounge
To borrow someone else’s expression , must have the Chooclate Lounge in a report
That’s pretty cool, seeing the ship you’re about to board from the air!
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): Soon it was time to check out our living quarters for the next 9 nights and to make sure everything was acceptable
Wow, nice cabin, I’m surprised at how spacious it is. Your photo of all the menus for the different restaurants made me laugh, how many hours did it take you to read them all?!
deltamartin From Sweden, joined Dec 2010, 1059 posts, RR: 9 Reply 53, posted (1 year 16 hours ago) and read 2315 times:
Hi Philip!
Nice report just as usual!
Good to see you had a nice flight on EI. The picture of Stockholm in the In-Flight magazine made me smile, too bad though that it was so misplaced on the routemap!
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter): I had been on NCL a few times before so when we saw a lovely cruise and the right price we decided to take it .
I also like cruising, I have only done some short ones on the Baltic sea though, and never any longer than two nights. Would love to try one of those mega-ships for a longer cruise in the meds or something though!
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter):
Time to check out the Aer Lingus Gold Circle club :
Looks nice!
Quoting OA260 (Thread starter):
We made our way to our stand and do my delight something quite interesting for me :
Sponsor Message: 
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I'm however delighted to see you back again on the Irish national, that has been quite some time now, has it? Great pics on arrival into BCN, but that's to be expected.
Sultanils
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Hilarious, but so true!
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