Cruise Specialists Blog

Windstar Wind Surf Report from the Med: October, 2009

Barcelona to Lisbon

Wind Surf

Our first time aboard Wind Surf. We had been told that people either prefer the smaller ships, Wind Spirit or Wind Star (148 guests) or the larger Surf (309) – but we confess to being equally pleased by both. We sailed from Barcelona on a balmy Mediterranean evening and before dinner had met several couples who became our sea buddies for the rest of the trip. That seems to happen aboard the intimate Windstar with its casual atmosphere. The next day found us in Ibiza – a quaint, walled Mediterranean city by day and a fairy tale setting at night with outside dining, romantic lights and candles, street performers and a laid back party atmosphere. Palma de Mallorca was next – more elegant – equally enticing.

The rivers and seas of Europe have always been essential to life and trade. But, until the mid-1800s, European boats and ships were only concerned with moving cargo or hauling in the day’s catch – not with passengers or their comfort.

In 1835, Arthur Anderson, a sailor from the Shetland Isles, wrote about his vision of providing passenger service from Scotland to Iceland in the summer months, and from Scotland to the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal) in winter. Two years later, he co-founded the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P&O), which became a major operator of passenger liners.

Right now we are at home, packing for our next voyage of the Fall Colors in New England and Canada. We just came back from our Viking Cruise on the Maasdam.

This cruise is always very successful. Lots of beautiful ports to visit. The ports are very versatile. Also lots of different sceneries, with ice-bergs, glaciers, fjords. We also visited lots of European countries. It is always great when you see repeat Cruise Specialists families. A lot of guests have cruised this particular cruise many times over and over again, due to the beautiful scenic cruise days and ports.

Wendy Dell & Teresa Tennant at Sail Away

My friend, Wendy, and I recently sailed as the Virtuoso group hosts onboard the Wind Surf from Venice to Venice.  Hotel Manager Geert de Meyer personally greeted guests as we checked in and he requested a steward to take our large bags to the ship.  Another steward escorted us to our stateroom and explained where things were, that we could check out DVDs at Reception, and even borrow an iPod pre-loaded with music for the stereo system. 

With short notice, I was given the opportunity to experience a Tauck River Cruise during Tulip time. I had never travelled Tauck, had never been to Holland or Belgium and only had one previous river boat experience. With wonderful support of Marie and Bridgett to take care of my clients and all the staff behind me on this adventure, I was ready start packing.