Saga Ruby Captain's blog

Lanzarote is the most eastern of the main Canary Islands and is the last to be visited on this cruise. It is unlike the other islands we have visited so far in that its appearance is more flat compared to the other islands we have visited that literally have the appearance of a volcano that has risen up from the sea. Also when traveling east toward the African coast, the influence of the Gulf Stream diminishes, and the islands become increasingly arid. Lanzarote and its twin, Fuerteventura, the islands which are closest to the African mainland are effectively desert or semi desert, a stark contrast to the laurel forrest's of La Gomera and La Palma.

Lanzarote was also probably the first of the Canary Islands to be settled, with evidence that the Phoenicians settled there around 1100 BC.

The first recorded name for the island was Insula de Lanzarotus Marocelus, after the Genoese navigator Lancelotto Malocello, from which the modern name is derived. The island's name in the native language was Titerro(y)gatra, which may mean "the red mountains".

Lanzarote has 135 miles of coastline, of which 6 miles are sand, 10 miles are beach, and the remainder is rocky. Its dramatic landscape includes the mountain ranges of Famara  in the north and Ajaches to the south. South of the Famara massif is the El Jable desert which separates Famara and Montañas del Fuego. The island also boasts the world's largest submerged volcanic tunnel the "Tunnel of Atlantis".

Much of the the Island’s topography has only relatively recently been sculpted by Mother Nature. Most notably when from 1730 to 1736 (for 2,053 days), the island was hit by a series of volcanic eruptions, producing 32 new volcanoes in a stretch of 18 km. Lava covered a quarter of the island's surface, including the most fertile soil and eleven villages. One hundred smaller volcanoes were located in the area called Montañas del Fuego.

The Port itself, Arrecife (Spanish for reef), is Lanzarote’s capital and principal port with over half of the population of the island living here. The fishing port has its own fortress, the 16th Century Castillo de San Gabriel. Now that pirate attacks are less likely, this houses a small archaeological museum.

Gran Canaria is located southeast of Tenerife and west of Fuerteventura. The island is of volcanic origin, mostly made of fissure vents. Gran Canaria's highest point is Pico de Las Nieves which is in the centre of the island at around 6000 ft. It has a round shape, with a diameter of approximately 30 miles.

According to the historian Pliny the Elder, the Mauretanian king Juba II named the island Canaria because it contained "vast multitudes of dogs of very large size". Another speculation is that the so-called dogs were actually a species of Monk Seals (canis marinus or "sea dog" was a Latin term for 'seal'), critically endangered and no longer present in the Canary Islands. The dense population of seals may have been the characteristic that most struck the few ancient Romans who established contact with these islands by sea.

Las Palmas officially known as Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the joint political capital, with Santa Cruz de Tenerife where we were yesterday, and is the most populous city in the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands and the ninth largest city in Spain.

 Founded in 1478 it was named for the abundant palms there. The city was the headquarters for the Spanish Conquest of Tenerife and La Palma and was later a major supply port for ships bound for Spanish America. The oldest houses dating from the 15th century can be found in the colonial quarter, along with the cathedral of Santa Ana and the house of Christopher Columbus.

The port is by far the largest in the Canary Islands, with significant and varied tonnage making calls to the port. Due to its geographical location, Las Palmas is still used today as bunker port (refueling) for vessel traveling between Europe and either the South America or African continent. The port is exposed to the North Atlantic winds, often making tug assistance prudent when berthing here. Fortunately, though a little windy for our arrival, a tug was not warranted to assist in berthing the Saga Ruby on this occasion. The same could not be said for departure however, when winds setting us onto the berth were a little too strong for the vessel to leave unaided.

Arrival in the port of Santa Cruz, incidentally also where in 1797 Horatio Nelson lost his right arm in battle, was relatively uneventful. Entering the port we passed our berth by a ships length in order to give us “room to swing” and turned the 180 degrees using the usual manoeuvre of splitting the engines, so that one runs ahead and the other astern, whilst the bow thruster worked in unison to turn the vessel. At the critical point of the swing the shore was a good 180 ft astern of us, and Fred Olsen’s Boudica 150ft ahead of us, so there was ample room. Once the turn had been completed we moved into position ahead of the Boudica and just behind another cruise ship, which was previously P&O’s Artemis. With no limbs lost the Saga Ruby was all tied up and our passengers were ready to invade the island via the gangway. 

Tenerife is a rugged and volcanic island sculpted by successive eruptions throughout its history. There are four historically recorded volcanic eruptions, none of which has led to casualties. The 12,198 feet high volcanic mountain, Pico de Teide, dominates the island itself and in the northeastern part of the island is Pinar de la Esperanza, where there is a forest of eucalyptus and pine.

According to legend, many islands in the chain, among them Tenerife, were believed to be the uppermost peaks of Atlantis, which catastrophically sank under the ocean leaving only the highest mountains above sea level.

The earliest known human settlement in the islands date to around 200 BC, by people known as the Guanches. They had little technology, even by Stone Age comparison and dressed in animal hides and lived in caves on the island.

In December of 1493, Alonso Fernández de Lugo obtained from the king the confirmation of the right to lead a conquest of the island of Tenerife. In April 1494, and coming from Gran Canaria, the conqueror landed on the coast of present day Santa Cruz de Tenerife and disembarked with troops who amounted to about 2,000 men on foot and 200 on horseback. After taking the fort, the army prepared to move inland and though the Spanish forces suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of the Guanches in the First Battle of Acentejo in 1494, the Guanches were eventually overcome by superior technology and surrendered to the Crown of Castile on 25 December 1494. A rather apropriate bite of the island’s history on a Christmas cruise!

Having done all the hard work on arrival departure was a piece of cake with the pilot’s input rather redundant, a theme of the cruise since our call to Cadiz to be honest. The Saga Ruby rounded the harbour wall and was clear of the port before midnight, heading for the nearby island of Gran Canaria.

Santa Cruz, harbour is very similar in design to that of San Sebastian in that a single sea wall running parallel to the shore is used to create a haven for marine vessels with the wall doubling up as the berth along the inside face.

This makes arrival and departure very straightforward in all except the windiest conditions, which is just as well given that neither port has its own tug to assist. And with only a force 3 to greet us in the morning it proved to be a very short “stand-by” before the Saga Ruby was safely moored in La Palma’s primary port.

La Palma, like the other islands of the Canary Island archipelago, is a volcanic ocean island. The volcano rises almost 4 miles above the floor of the Atlantic Ocean. There is road access from sea level to the summit, which is marked by an outcrop of rocks called Los Muchachos ("The Lads"). This is the site of the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, one of the world's premier astronomical observatories.

Like all of the Canary Islands, La Palma originally formed as a seamount through submarine volcanic activity. La Palma is currently the most volcanically active of the Canary Islands and was formed three to four million years ago. Since the Spanish occupation of the island, there have been seven eruptions the last of which occurred in 1971.

During the 1949 eruption from three of the vents on the Cumbre Vieja, (a volcanic ridge which dominates the southern part of the island formed by numerous volcanic cones), an earthquake caused a 1.6 mile long rift to open, with a width of about a 3 feet and a depth of about 6 feet.

Some geologists hypothesised that during a future eruption, the western flank of the Cumbre Vieja could slide into the ocean. This could then potentially generate a giant wave which they termed a "megatsunami" in the region of the islands. The wave would radiate out across the Atlantic and inundate the eastern seaboard of North America including the American, the Caribbean and northern coasts of South America some six to eight hours later. Modelling suggests that the tsunami could inundate up to 16 miles inland depending upon topography. Of course this is unlikely to happen in the next ten thousand years so it is not worth worrying about really at the moment.

Passenger’s tours for the island focus largely on the volcanic topography of the island and its subsequent fauna. One tour, “Volcano and Wine,” incorporates the islands wine making heritage, a fortuitous result of the island’s situation and climate, which makes it ideal for producing grapes!

Having spent the remainder of Christmas day at sea we arrived at the first of our Canary Island ports of call on a fine and sunny Boxing Day morning. A tranquil island, La Gomera proved to be the ideal location for our passengers to relax and recover from the previous day of excess and over indulgence.

The second smallest of the seven main islands of the Canaries island group, the island is of volcanic origin and roughly circular; it is about 14 miles in diameter and rises to nearly 5000 feet at the island's highest peak, Garajonay. Its shape has been described as rather like an orange that has been cut in half and then split into segments, which has left deep ravines between them. These ravines, in turn, are covered by laurel rain forest.

The upper reaches of this densely wooded region are almost permanently shrouded in clouds and mist, and as a result are covered in lush and diverse vegetation: they form the protected environment of Spain's Garajonay National Park, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. The slopes are criss-crossed by paths that present varying levels of difficulty to visitors, and stunning views for our passengers to discover.

The central mountains catch the moisture from the trade wind clouds and yield a dense jungle climate in the cooler air, which contrasts with the warmer, sun-baked cliffs near sea level. For centuries, the inhabitants of La Gomera have farmed the lower levels by channelling runoff water to irrigate their vineyards, orchards and banana groves.

San Sebastián itself is the main port and capital of the island, yet is quite small with a population of just over 2000, approximately 10% of the islands total inhabitants. The towering volcano Teide on the neighbouring island of Tenerife dominates the sea views from the port which has recently had its main jetty extended to afford more protection to the ships in the harbour and better accommodate larger cruise ships.

The crossing from Cadiz to Funchal was completed in fair seas though much of the day at sea was spent in overcast conditions as everyone prepared for Christmas. On the morning of Christmas Eve we entered the port and moored on the outer sea wall, where there was evidence of preparations being made for the New Year’s world-renowned firework display. The sky had started to clear of cloud too, ensuring that the passengers would get to see the port at its best, in sunshine.

The port obtained its name from the the first settlers that landed on its shores who named it so due to the abundance of wild fennel.

The settlement began around 1424, founded by João Gonçalves Zarco who settled there with members of his family. Owing to its geographic location, the site became an important maritime port, while its productive soils became a focus of new settlers. Its coastal position, the most productive on the island, quickly permitted Funchal to develop an urban core and surpass the populations of other settlements, which slowly gravitated around it.

Funchal became an important transfer point for European commercial interests; many sailors and merchants were located in Funchal in order to take advantage of the transient conditions of the port. Christopher Columbus was one of the early settlers, but later many of the merchant families established commercial interests on the island.

The island, and Funchal specifically, were vulnerable to privateer and pirate attacks. In 1566, French corsairs under the command of Bertrand de Montluc, a gentleman in the court of Charles IX of France and second-son of Field Marshal Blaise de Montluc departed from Bordeaux with a force of 1200 men. The city was violently sacked for fifteen days, leaving little remaining. The following year, the military architect Mateus Fernandes III was sent to Funchal in order to completely modify the defensive system of the city.

In the 17th century, commercial treaties with England brought increased investments and as a result many commercial winemakers from England moved to the island.

We were not scheduled to sail from Funchal until just before 7 am on Christmas morning, and so celebrated the evening alongside overlooking the harbour’s Christmas lights, which were complemented by the tiers of streetlamps stretching up into the steep hilly façade of the city that almost gives the appearance that the buildings are stacked upon one another.

Like Ferrol arrival into Cadiz was under cover of darkness, despite the fact that it was 8am, due to its westerly situation within the central European time zone. With the main passenger terminal being subject to repair work along its quay wall face, we moored in the tight “parking spot” at the end of the “Darsena Commercial” perpendicular to the length of the port and nearest to the town. The weather conditions were favourable with light winds, and the clear starlit sky showing the orange of dawn in the east, promising a fine day.

Cadiz, the oldest continuously-inhabited city in the Iberian peninsula, has been a principal home port of the Spanish Navy since the accession of the Spanish Bourbons in the 18th century. The city is a member of the Most Ancient European Towns Network an is the most ancient city still standing in Western Europe

Despite its unique site, on a narrow slice of land surrounded by the sea, Cadiz is, in most respects, a typically Andalusian city with a wealth of attractive vistas and well-preserved historical landmarks. The older part of Cadiz, within the remnants of the city walls, is commonly referred to as the Old Town. It is characterized by the antiquity of its various quarters, among them El Pópulo, La Viña, and Santa María, which present a marked contrast to the newer areas of town. While the Old City's street plan consists of narrow winding alleys connecting large plazas, newer areas of Cadiz typically have wide avenues and more modern buildings. In addition, the city is dotted by numerous parks where exotic plants flourish, including giant trees supposedly brought to Spain by Columbus from the New World.

Often referred to as Tacita de Plata, Cup of Silver, Cadiz has a luminous sheen in the sun, especially when seen from the sea. This can largely be attributed to extensive number of whitewashed buildings often in the Moorish style, centred on and around the 13th century Cathedral, which dominates the Cadiz skyline.

The port of Cadiz provided our passengers with the ideal base from which to explore, not only Cadiz itself, but also the beautiful city of Seville. Or for those who like a glass of Sherry now and then, a tour to Jerez might be preferred, with an opportunity to sample some of the local produce.

Having joined the ship in Southampton my first task was to steam across that most notorious stretch of the Atlantic Ocean, the Bay of Biscay. Striking fear into the stomachs of many a passenger, the topic of the weather for the crossing was prominent in conversation and was probably only narrowly beaten into second place by “hello”.

The crossing north on the mystery cruise had been very unpleasant, as I understand it from the fifty plus back-to-back cruisers sailing with us. However, my joining date proved timely, as the weather system creating all the unease had passed through, leaving relatively moderate seas and only 4-6 feet of swell to remind everyone that we were at sea.

Arriving into Ferrol or El Ferrol as the locals call it was relatively straightforward. Though nearly 8am when we’d got alongside it was still dark, with the sun not due to arrive until after 9:30 am. This is due to the fact that Ferrol is on the western extreme of the Central European Time Zone with the province sharing longitudes with parts of Ireland and being situated even further west than the UK mainland.

Ferrol is a city in the province of A Coruña in Galicia, located on the Atlantic coast in north-western Spain.

The city has been a major naval shipbuilding centre from the 18th century, since the time of the early Bourbons.

The city was the birthplace of the Spanish General Francisco Franco in 1892, and was officially known as El Ferrol del Caudillo from 1938 to 1982.

Ferrol was made Capital of the Maritime Department of the North, formed under Ferdinand VI and Charles III for the defence of the Spanish Colonial Empire in America. Rapid improvements followed, notably under the leadership of the Marquis of Ensenada, and the position of Ferrol was made almost unassailable from the sea, the difficulties of disembarking troops on its precipitous coast being strengthened by a renewed line of fortresses and newly built castles, including that of San Carlos.

The Royal Dockyards of A Graña and Ferrol, built between 1726–1783, produced ships protected with copper sheets from the rolling mills of Xubia. In 1772, The Spanish Royal Academy of Naval Engineers of Ferrol, the first such academy in Spain, was created.

Ferrol was virtually impossible to blockade in the age of sail, as strong westerly winds would take any blockading force away along the treacherous north coast of Spain where they had no safe haven. The geography of Ferrol meant that an entire Spanish fleet could slip out on a single tide.

Ten years after the Spanish-American War of 1898, in which Spain lost Cuba and the Philippines, the Antonio Maura Government, in an attempt to restore the Spanish Navy and Spanish shipbuilding industry, hired the Spanish Society for Naval Construction, whose major investors were the British firms John Brown, Vickers and Armstrong.  For a period of sixteen years, all the technicians were exclusively British, and the situation was not altered till 1925 when the management was taken over by Spanish engineers, as one of the new policies introduced by the then newly created government, including ministers both civil and military, of the dictator Miguel Primo de Rivera.

Our visit to Ferrol was marred a little by the weather, light rain persisting for large parts of the day, but other than that the port proved to be a good first port to get everyone into the Christmas spirit.

On departure a Galician Pipe band reminded everyone of the regions Celtic roots as they played for us as we slipped our lines and headed back out to sea. Musket fire also saluted the vessel as she passed under the forts flanking either side of the narrows leading to the outer port, as four soldiers dressed in 18th century uniforms took aim in a series of volleys in a display for the passengers.

On our final port of call for this Mystery Cruise, the Saga Ruby sailed into the Port of Lisbon. There had been a very large Storm over the UK and the effects were being felt as far south as Lisbon.

As we sailed up the River Tagus, there was no wind at all, but a 6-metre swell following us in. The helmsman had to work hard in keeping the ship steady as we yawed about as the swell surfed the ship from behind. In the dark, as the large swell over took us, it was quite impressive. We needed to stay in the centre of the channel as the swell was reducing our draft. It was an art to keep the ship in safe water, but this is what we are trained for.

Things calmed down and it was just before 7.30am that we started our approach to the berth. I must admit putting this ship alongside without tugs is always of great satisfaction - she is not gifted with these fancy thrusters - but you just use old-fashioned seamanship.

So stemming the tide with one engine ahead, and one astern, I then used the large rudder to steer the stern into the quay slowly. I used the bowthruster to bring the bow in. You have got to keep the current ahead because if you allow it to get onto each bow, then it can push you quickly onto the quay or away. Once all fast, I breathed a sigh of satisfaction into the cold, crisp morning air. At 8am, I made my usual announcement to welcome all to Lisbon, Portugal.

All those guests with even-numbered cabins gathered in the ballroom at 8.15am, and those with odd-numbered cabins at 12.45pm. They then all set off on the final tour ‘Lisbon Panoramic & Estufa Fria’.

Our passengers had the opportunity to enjoy this informative commentary during a relaxing drive through Lisbon and its environment, stopping to take photographs at landmarks and places of interest.

Our guests could see the Monument to the Discoveries and Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery and the Parliment buildings with views of the Castle from Rossio Square. They could take in the atmosphere and ambiance of the new and old towns in the city.

From here there was a chance to visit the very special site of Estufa Fria, an authentic living museum and one of the most important green spaces in Lisbon. The name Estufa Fria (Cold Greenhouse) comes from the fact that no imported heat source is used at this site. The area is divided into three zones hot, cold and sweet. The cold zone is the largest of the three greenhouses. It is covered with slats of wood and naturally controls the temperature and light inside. This glasshouse contains azaleas and camellias from various parts of the globe.

The hot zone hosts tropical species, such as mango and coffee.

The sweet zone holds species belonging to the Cactaceae family - plants such as aloe. This is an unusual place but extremely peaceful. The area is enhanced with pools, waterfalls and statuary. Our passengers could enjoy Port, soft drinks and Pasteis de Belem before returning to the ship.

For those passengers who decided to experience Lisbon independently, they could walk into the main town area or take the shuttle bus provided. Alternatively, our guests could stay onboard to join in with activities like beanbag bowls or shuffleboard with cruise staff, Liliana.

At 17.30pm, we were ready to sail into the blood red sky that lit up Lisbon. We have come to the end of the Mystery Cruise, visiting eight ports, four countries and three maiden calls - all this in 16 days.

I am sure many thought we would be travelling further afield, but it would be impossible to spend too much time at sea getting to the more easterly places and then not being able to fulfil the rules.

We have been so lucky with the weather all the way through. The excursions seem to have been well received and we have had so much fun around the ship. It’s been great to sail with cruise director, Jonathan Neil again - he is so versatile.

I have thoroughly enjoyed this Mystery Cruise and sincerely hope all the passengers have too.

To add a final farewell, a university band played us away to “We want to wish you a Merry Christmas”. I had invited Kevin Woodford and his wife Jean up to the bridge as he is a seriously nice chap, and I enjoyed watching him cook. I must admit I will be taking some tips back home with me.

Sadly, I had to prepare the passengers for a bumpy ride North, so we battened down the hatches and set off for Southampton.

From 6pm this evening, guests could enjoy the sounds of Paul West at the piano in the South Cape Bar. Alternatively, there was an opportunity for those wishing to test those grey cells in our team trivia in the Britannia Lounge with our social hostess, Cathy.
 
For tonight’s cabaret show time, officers, staff & crew of the Saga Ruby presented our Crew Show Extravaganza. We invited our crew from around the ship to perform onstage. Following this our guests could boogie along to our crew band ‘The Cheese Omelettes’ with our gentlemen hosts in the Ballroom.

For those not ready for the night to end, they could join The Starlight Trio in the ‘Preview for a Nightcap’ with cruise staff, Gemma and Fernando and some music for dancing until late. 

Sadly I was unable to see the crew show, as I was busy on the bridge keeping the ship steady in the swell.

Well as we headed north, we did indeed feel the full effects of this storm that had been buffeting the UK, but the passengers took my advice and the Saga Ruby shrugged off the swell and we steady made our way through the storm. We passed Saga Pearl 11 off Ushant on the morning of the 17th. It was nice to speak to my friend and colleague, Captain Wesley Dunlop, heading south.

Tomorrow I hand over the ‘keys’ to Captain Angove. It will be nice to see him again as the last time I sailed with him, he was my Staff Captain - it’s always nice to see promotions.

After that I set off Home to be with My family, which I am thoroughly looking forward to. So its goodbye from me, I hope I have written well enough to keep you interested and will write again when I join Saga Sapphire in dry dock in February to take her into the Saga Fleet.

To all my readers, have a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. I look forward to 2012 where it will be an exciting year ahead.

Signing off,

Yours Aye,

Today the Saga Ruby arrived into port at 8am with guests once again trying to guess where this next port of call might be. I was still very surprised that our many seasoned cruisers had no idea where we were going next, which was great to hear as the fun continues. We were calling at the port of Almeria today and all went well in berthing the ship, until the last 1.5 metres off the quay. The ship wouldn’t come alongside anymore so we made all fast and as expected found that a wall of mud had built up as a “fender” stopping us from getting that last bit alongside. The Harbour Authorities were most apologetic and offered all sorts of help and advice but I said that there was no harm done, and we were only touching mud so nothing to be worried about.

This was another Maiden call for us here in Spain and once again it was a beautiful day.

All those guests with odd numbered cabins gathered in the ballroom at 8.30am and those with even numbered cabins at 1pm as they set off on the ‘Tabernas Desert and Flamenco Show’ excursion.

Our passengers had the opportunity of experiencing the true flavour of Andalusia, from the port they travelled into the extraordinary and breathtaking landscape that is the Tabernas Desert. A landscape our passengers may already be familiar with, as Tabernas is not only a settlement, a castle, a desert. It has also doubled for Texas, Oklaholma, New Mexico and Arabia, in numerous films. This extraordinary landscape is now a protected environment “Paraje Natural Desierto de Tabernas”. The region enjoys three thousand hours of sunshine every year, and is home to Europe’s largest solar energy station. The final call was within a cave, here you can relax enjoy a glass of Andalucian sherry, as a family of gypsies sing, dance and play flamenco before returning to the ship.

For those passenger’s who decided to experience Almeria independently they could walk into the main town area as all amenities were close to the ship. Alternatively our guests could stay onboard to join in with activities deck quoits or carpet bowls with Cruise Staff Christina.

We slid away at 1730 into a fresh breeze and set sail for our next and final port this Cruise.

From 6pm this evening guests could enjoy the sounds of Paul West at the piano in the South Cape Bar. Alternatively there was an opportunity for those wishing to test those grey cells in our team trivia in the Britannia Lounge with our Cruise Staff Liliana.

Following dinner our passengers could join in some light-hearted fun as we welcomed Ascot to the Britannia Lounge. The Cruise Department rounded up the jockeys and took bets on those winning horses whilst raising money for the RNLI.
  
For tonight’s Cabaret Show Time we invite to the Ballroom stage the ‘Citron Trio’ as they perform ‘Christmas Hamper’ a show full of themed classical music to bring in Christmas. The evening then continued with music for dancing with the Saga Ruby Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts in the Ballroom.

For those wishing to carry on the evening could join the Cruise Department in a Country and Western Hoedown in the Preview learning all kinds of popular line dances as well as listening to a mini cabaret from our onboard production singers Jemma Thomas and Peter Box featuring Assistant Cruise Director Kayleigh and Cruise Staff Fernando with the evening flowing until late with The Starlight Trio and some fun songs.

On our sixth port of call for our mystery cruise we arrived into dock at around 8am. With the morning sunshine putting a spring in our step the announcement was then made from the bridge that we were in Alicante, Spain.
Passengers were again scratching their heads as to wear to buy the best carpet.. Many had thought we were going to Tunisia, or another north African Port. So again my plan worked………

Those guests with even numbered cabins gathered at 8.15am and those in odd numbered cabins 12.45pm as they embarked upon the ‘Elche and Novelda Tour,’ this panoramic tour consisted of visiting Alicante, before heading for the City of Palms and finally a visit to the Priest’s Garden.

This particular garden is considered a national treasure, filled with rare plants and succulent exotics. Featuring an extraordinary palm tree in the form of a chandelier is over a hundred years old. This special garden has much to offer of beauty and interest, with a wonderful air of tranquillity. A small shop within the gardens offered the opportunity to purchase mementos and gifts.

Our guests then travelled onto the village of Novelda, home to one of the most promising vineyards in the Alicante region. This vineyard is the proud recipient of numerous prestigious prizes from worldwide wine organisations. Following an introduction and guided visit, our passengers were given the opportunity to taste the wine.

For those passenger’s who decided to experience Alicante independently a shuttle bus was provided to explore the vibrant town area. Alternatively our guests could stay onboard to join in with activities including carpet bowls or shuffleboard with our Cruise Staff Gemma.

We set sail in a fresh breeze, and the ship responded well and we turned in a dock, and headed out, to the south again, to clear the coast and make it difficult for passengers to see the coastline and be disorientated.

Tonight’s entertainment begins in the South Cape bar with Paul West at the piano from 6pm. Our guests alternatively could enjoy an earlier team trivia with Assistant Cruise Director Kayleigh in the Britannia Lounge.

Following dinner, we invite back the ‘Citron Trio’ as they present ‘George Gershwin – A Man & his Music’ in the Britannia Lounge.

For tonight’s Cabaret Show Time the Saga Ruby proudly presented Comedian Davie Kristian in the Ballroom with our onboard Dance Instructors Roanna & Goran to open the show. The evening then continued with music for dancing with the Saga Ruby Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts.

For those not ready for the night to end they could join The Starlight Trio in the preview for a nightcap with Cruise Staff Liliana and Fernando and some music for dancing until late.

We approached the Island of Menorca, in the dark, so right up until the last minute, the port of call was undistinguishable and recognisable. As we sailed into the beautiful Natural harbour, the sun was rising so many seasoned travellers suddenly realised we were visiting an island and not mainland France. Once alongside, I was on the quayside having a bit of banter with the passengers, as they scorned at me for my lies, in good humour I have to add, but nonetheless, mischievous. It was another beautiful day.

All those guests with odd numbered cabins gathered in the ballroom at 8.30am and those with even numbered cabins at 9am as they set off on the ‘Taste of Menorca’ tour.

This excursion took our passengers on a short drive to the village of Mercadal in the centre of the Island and up to Monte Toro (375mtrs) this point gave them wonderful panoramic views of the whole island. Monte Toro, originally from the Arabic “altoro” meaning high, it is locally known as Bull Mountain. This vantage point also affords views of the fishing village of Fornells, the beautiful bay and surrounding countryside. The monastery here was founded in the seventeenth century, today it is a convent and the building and grounds are under the care of Franciscan nuns.

The journey then took them to the pre-historic site of the Torralba d’en Salord dating from 1,000 B.C in the time of the Roman occupation. The Tuala – this means table, is fashioned from two large slabs of rock, one vertical, the other horizontal, all housed within a horseshoe shaped enclosure, a sacred space and place of worship.

The final element of the island tour was Sabaida farm and estate, home to the Montanes family since 1843. With 350 Hectares of pasture producing 5,500 litres of milk, every day. Here our guests could sample five different cheeses, pressed cold meats, all made on the farm and washed down with local wine.

For those passenger’s who decided to experience Mahon independently a shuttle bus was provided to explore the market and town area. Alternatively our guests could stay onboard to join in with activities deck quoits or carpet bowls with Cruise Staff Fernando. With an early sail Cruise Staff and guests gathered towards the aft of the ship to enjoy wonderful views as we departed from Mahon to set sail for somewhere else!In another twist to put passengers off, I told them we were going to a port made famous for its Carpets!!

That evening I took evening Worship and then a quick change into my Formal Uniform to host our Brittannia party at 0630, for 398 of our guests. I had the pleasure of presenting one of our Guests, a Mrs Hazel Newington, with her decanter for accumulating over 500 nights on our ships.

Following dinner many passengers gathered their teams together for tonights fun trivia with Cruise Staff Christina in the Britannia Lounge. For tonight’s Cabaret Show Time the Saga Ruby was proud to present International Recording Star Stuart Gillies. The evening then continued with music for dancing with the Saga Ruby Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts in the Ballroom.

For those ready wishing to carry on the festive spirit on such an exciting formal evening could join Assistant Cruise Director Kayleigh and Social Hostess Cathy and The Starlight Trio in the preview for late night libations.

As we arrived early into our next port of call on our mystery cruise there was a buzz of discussion as to where we were docking. Once we were all fast aft the announcement was made from the bridge that we were in Palamos, Spain.

This was a maiden call for us, in this beautiful port.

All those guests with even numbered cabins gathered in the ballroom at 9am and those with odd numbered cabins at 9.15am so early starts for all as they set off on the ‘HD Artistic’ tour. As they departed the busy port area our guests left Palamos and headed into the countryside passing unspoilt villages and pretty towns. The destination was Figueres. Birthplace of Salvador Dali, this provincial town has become one of the most popular destinations in Spain its famous son.

Our passengers were able to explore Dali’s incredible Theatre-Museu. The flamboyant Theatre – Museu is crowned with a huge latticed dome like a fly’s eyeball, surrounded by giant boiled eggs and leaping figures. Inside, the museum twist’s around a central courtyard strewn with old bones and skulls, in which a singing diva sprouts out of a Cadillac, clutching a snake and thorny rose. Rooms and passages lead off to dead ends, and statues in niches have drawers protruding from their stomachs.

Dali retired to the Tower Galatea and eventually died there in 1989, he lies buried behind a plain granite slab, so understated it’s baffling. Our guests could enjoy some free time in Figueres before returning to the ship in the early afternoon.

For those passenger’s who decided to experience Palamos independently a shuttle bus was provided to explore the down town area however it was only a short walk to the harbour if preferred. Alternatively our guests could stay onboard to join in with activities including a quiz or shuffleboard with our Social Hostess Cathy.

On a sailing I decided to put a little fly into the ointment and told the passengers, that our next port was famous for its Rugby team, so many thoughts on Toulouse, Perpignon, Toulon, was bantered about. Little did passengers know I was heading to Mahon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11

Tonight’s entertainment began in the South Cape bar with Paul West tinkling the ivories from 6pm. Our guests alternatively could join in team trivia with Cruise Staff Liliana in the Britannia Lounge.

Following dinner the Britannia Lounge presents The Citron Trio in ‘The Romantics’ including works by Beethoven, Mendelssohn and Schumann, for another memorable Classical Concert.

For tonight’s Cabaret Show Time The Gail Davies Production Cast presents “Love Sweet Love” as we celebrate Romance from around the World. The evening then continued with music for dancing with the Saga Ruby Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts in the Ballroom.

For those ready for a nightcap could join cruise staff Liliana and Gemma and The Starlight Trio in the preview for late night libations.

During our day at sea on the 8th, it was a busy entertainment schedule. We had TV Celebrity Chef Kevin Woodford onboard and that morning, Cruise Director Johnathan and I joined Kevin onstage to do a “Can’t Cook wont Cook”. So after donning our chef’s outfits, we were welcomed onstage to a packed room, so the nerves started. However getting into Character and having watched enough reality TV cooking programmes, I knew the formal response to the “god of the Kitchen” so every time I was given advice or asked a question, I would regimentally reply “Yes Chef!!” a mark of respect…Anyway we had an hour and 15 minutes of side-splitting laughter, with the passengers saying it was the best show they had seen. I had taken the cooking seriously so ended with a fairly good presentation, But Cruise Director Jonathan, having been drinking the wine and brandy had what only could be described as a cremated mess!! But it was a great show, and what a great host he was, a true professional.

That evening my entertainment duties continued with Call my Bluff with Cathy Ellis, Social Hostess and our very own cruise Director who was a hoot!

After a day at sea, and all this hilarity, I thought it better I went back to my day job. We arrived early into our next port of call on our mystery cruise. From leaving Motril, I had taken the ship away from the coast in order to fool the passengers. I had also carried out a few manoeuvres to put any budding navigators off by watching the rising or setting of the sun. So when we arrived at the first of our maiden call ports, I was pleasantly surprised that no one had a clue where we were. The port requires us to make a sharp turn after the breakwaters and into the berth. So this was duly done. I must admit, not having been on the ship since 2007, its amazing how quickly things come back to you, it’s like riding a bike, whichever ship you are on, you never forget how to shiphandle. Once alongside, I made the announcement of where we were, Sete, in the South Coast of France, our 3rd Country.

On that day, sadly cattle were being loaded onto ships for North Africa, so there was an added bonus of a ripe smell in the air. All part and parcel of the fun! I had told a little bit of a porky the night before in order to throw the passengers off the scent. I had told them that where we were heading, it was common to have sand in the air, as you do when sailing along the coast of Morocco heading south. Some thought this Sandair was an anagram and thought we were heading for Sardinia!!!

All those guests with even numbered cabins gathered in the ballroom at early start of 8.15am and those with odd numbered cabins at 1.15pm to set off on the ‘Aigues Mortes and Wine Tasting’ tour. Our passengers left the port area and drove inland for an hour or so, to the delightful town of Aigues Mortes. This medieval town is dominated by large defensive towers, and encircled by fortified walls. The town sits in a landscape of ponds, sea marshes, and salt pans. Angues Mortes meaning “dead waters” came into existence when King Louis IX created a port for Frances trade with the Orient and an embarkation point for the Crusaders. Our guests then had the opportunity to explore this town on foot in the company of a guide, passing the Tour de Constance, a huge defensive tower, later used as a prison during religious wars. Below the town were fabulous views of the Camargue, a landscape of lagoons, a wonderful nature reserve, the home of bulls and horses.

They then travelled on to Domaines de Jarras buried in the heart of the Vin de Pays des Sables du Golf du Lion, this location, the proximity of the Mediterranean tempers the climate and enhance the aromas. Domaine de Jarras offers a comprehensive range of both red and white wines and a leading producer of rose. There was then an introduction to the Domain followed by wine tasting complimented by fougasse and olives before our guests boarded the coach and returned to the ship.

For those passenger’s who decided to experience Sete independently a shuttle bus was provided to explore the down town area. Alternatively our guests could stay onboard to join in with activities including carpet bowls or target golf with our Cruise Staff Liliana.

We sailed at 1800, basically carrying out a 3 point turn and we headed into the night to our next port of call.

Tonight’s entertainment began in the South Cape bar with Paul West at the piano from 6pm. Our guests alternatively could enjoy with Stephen Smith our onboard Comedy and Music Lecturer with an entertainments themed team trivia in the Britannia Lounge.

Following dinner we invited back The Citron Trio to play another wonderful selection of Classical pieces as they present ‘Light British Classics – Music you didn’t know you knew’ in the Britannia Lounge.

For tonight’s Cabaret Show Time we present ‘Fiddler on the Cruise’ a Murder Mystery show starring Andy Craven, Peter Fearey, myself ,Kayleigh our ACD and Jemma our lead singer in the dance troupe. Again a lot of fun and laughter.I may be heading towards getting my equity card. The evening then continued with music for dancing with the Saga Ruby Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts in the Ballroom.

For those not ready for the night to end they could join cruise staff Christina and Fernando and The Starlight Trio in the preview for late night libations until late.

On this second port of call for our mystery cruise we arrived into dock at around 12 noon with all our passengers out on deck enjoying the sunshine and many trying to guess with binoculars the location. The announcement was then made from the bridge that we were in Motril, Spain.

After lunch our guests with odd numbered cabins gathered in the ballroom at 12.45pm and those with even numbered cabins at 3pm to set off on the ‘Costa Tropical Flavours’ tour. Our passengers took a short journey from the ship and drove through the fertile valley of the Guadalfeo River, to the picturesque whitewashed village with narrow streets and enchanting houses, reflecting the rich history of its Moorish past. They then travelled onto the Sugar House Museum, located on the upper floor of the sugar house at La Palma and is the only one of its kind still in existence.

From sugar to rum, they then travelled on through the Lecrin Valley to Grenada with views of the snow covered mountains beyond. Plantations of sugar have been a feature of this landscape for over a thousand years; the plant was first introduced by the Arabs through North Africa, and thought to have originated in China or India.

The Family run distillery of Ron Montero, located on the southern coast of Grenada is the most southerly on Europe’s mainland. The purity and exceptional quality of the rum is of such high quality that reputation alone carries it forward. During their visit there is an introduction to the distillery and of course, the tasting before returning to the ship.

For those passengers who decided to experience Motril independently a shuttle bus was provided to explore the down town area. Alternatively our guests could stay onboard to join in with activities including deck quoits or shuffleboard with our Cruise Staff Christina.

Tonight’s entertainment begins in the South Cape bar with Paul West at the piano from 6pm. Our guests alternatively could enjoy an earlier team trivia with Assistant Cruise Director Kayleigh in the Britannia Lounge.

Following dinner in keeping with our Mystery themed cruise our guests could join in with a ‘Mystery Musical Quiz’ with cocktail pianist Paul West in the Britannia Lounge hosted by Assistant Cruise Director Kayleigh.

For tonight’s Cabaret Show Time we invite back to the stage the multitalented Kenny Martyn for an evening of Musical Artistry. The evening then continued with music for dancing with the Saga Ruby Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts in the Ballroom.

For those not ready for the night to end they could join The Starlight Trio in the preview for a nightcap and some music for dancing until late. 

Our run from Southampton was a mixture of weather. The first day and a half was sadly affected by the Storms coming in from the Atlantic. But as usual, the ship handles herself well and soon we were heading into a building high pressure, with Blue Skies breaking through, the winds abating and the swell decreasing so life cruising got progressively better as our guests could get out and about.

We had a full programme of entertainment to keep our guests entertained, including Navigational Bridge Visits. Now these were going to prove difficult as all the bridge equipment showed where we were going. So in order to allow this visit, I had the OOW switch off as much of the electronic equipment as was safe to do so, and other equipment, we taped over so nobody could see anything. And the Officers of the watch were sworn to secrecy and to feed the guests respectfully as many red herrings as possible

On the morning of the 5th December I had mentioned to the passengers to be out on deck and although I wasn’t going to give the game away, I said on the starboard side, if you looked hard enough, you could see some snow capped mountains.. So many passengers duly did this, although they couldn't’t see the mountains, they assumed we may be going north to Norway, when really out on our Starboard side, about 5000 miles away was America!!. A little lie I am afraid but confused people. Oh and also we asked the Electronics Officer, to find the Scottish Television Satellite signal so when the Scottish News was played on the TV,s. our guests thought I was taking them home to my house for tea!!!!

I have to say I must teach my son all these devious tactics as I seem to be quite good at it………

As we arrived into our first port of call excitement filled the air of where it might be. Once we were the announcement was made that after three days sailing we were indeed in Casablanca.

I brought the ship in and alongside unaided, and the manoeuvring differences between the Saga Pearl 11 and the Saga Ruby, are miles apart but any ship handling is enjoyable and you need to be able to adapt. So we were all fast at 0700

As I stood on the quay as the passengers were disembarking, many quite rightly said what a great liar I was.(Not sure if my wife would want to hear this..)But I was pleased that we had been able to keep everyone guessing as this is all part and parcel of the fun..

Our passenger’s with even numbered cabins gathered in the ballroom at 8.15pm and those with odd numbered cabins at 12.45pm to set off on a ‘Casablanca City Tour with Belly Dancer’ from leaving the ship they took a drive into the city, heading for the largest mosque in Morocco, Hassan II, set on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic. They could stop here for photographs before enjoying a drive along the Corniche, bordered by uninterrupted sweeping beaches, pools and cafes. Next they stopped at a hotel by the ocean for cooling refreshment where entertainment was then provided in the form of a talented Belly Dancer. Returning to the heart of the city, they then headed for the Habbous Quater with views of the Royal Palace and the French Cathedral of Notre Dame. Before returning to the ship our guests then had free time at United Nations Square.

For those passenger’s who decided to experience Casablanca independently a shuttle bus was provided and some of our guests stayed onboard to join in with activities including quizzes and shuffleboard with our Cruise Staff Gemma.

On sailing, a fresh breeze onto the berth was being experienced, and even with the use of a tug aft, it struggled to lift the ship away, so with the use of the engines and the Bow thrusters, and doing a little “wiggling” of the ships direction, I was able to bring the ship away from the quay. The pilot complemented me on the manoeuvre which is always a nice thing to be said from one mariner to another. I must admit my father would be proud as I still wear his hat, now that I have lost weight, I can wear it on my head….

Once clear of the port, we headed off to somewhere, where I don’t know…

Tonight’s entertainment begins in the South Cape bar with Paul West at the piano from 6pm. Our guests alternatively could enjoy an earlier team trivia with Social Hostess Cathy in the Britannia Lounge.

Following dinner we invite The Cirton Trio to play their second Classical Concert of the cruise as they present ‘Mostly Mozart’ in the Britannia Lounge.

Tonight’s show time was a Variety Show including Production Vocalists Jemma Thomas and Peter Box followed by the hilarious ‘Stars on Strings’ puppet show. The evening continues in the preview for those wishing to stay up a little later with multi-instrumentalist Kenny Martyn and the Saga Ruby Orchestra followed by more toe-tapping tunes from The Starlight Trio until late.

As we arrived into Southampton in the early hours of the morning our crew were ready on the gangway to say a fond farewell to our passengers having enjoyed a month in celebration for our Diamond Anniversary Caribbean Cruise.

It was a cold brisk start after coming from such hot climates, but after our last guest stepped off the gangway it was a quick turnaround to prepare the ship for our next cruise, which to everyone is a mystery!

I had flown down the night before and when I walked on the Saga Ruby, I made a note to myself that I had not stepped over the gangway of the ship as Master in Charge, since I left her in 2007 to rejoin Saga Rose for her final years. So I was pleased to be back to the ship and soon I was greeted by so many colleagues and staff who it was a delight to see. Even as I walked through the Ballroom, two of our very pretty Cocktail Waitresses, Irene and Maravick ran over and gave me a hug.( It’s a hard job ladies and gentlemen but someone has to do it!!)

Anyway Phillip Rentell an I carried out the usual Legalities of handing over a ship between Masters, and soon he and his wife Helen, were on their way home for a well earned rest. The next time I will see Phillip will be on Saga Sapphire next year when I hand over to him  in May.

There was a buzz in the air as the Cruise Staff greeted our eager new passengers on the gangway as they embarked upon a cruise in which they didn’t know where they were going! Even the crew onboard are still wondering where they will be headed in the next 16 days!

Once everyone was onboard the Saga Ruby set sail at 17.30  for who knows where?? I sternly informed our guests to make sure nobody cheated and secretly switched on a GPS, looked on their mobile phone or had a small compass in their pocket. To respect the secrecy and enjoyment of the passengers, I asked for this co-operation. If anyone was found breaking this rule they were threatened with the brig!!

Anyway, I told the passengers, don’t bother noticing which side the sun rises or sets, as I will be turning the ship around and adjusting speed during the night when they least expect it so just to warn them not to waste their time. Even keeping this all from the ships company has been difficult. When talking on the bridge, we have to whisper so that the Quarter Masters and AB,s don’t hear where we are going.

Our guests could enjoy a glass of bucks fizz out on deck with our cruise staff as we chatted amongst ourselves lots of theories and thoughts were shared on where our first destination might be?!

To start this first evening’s entertainment Paul West entertained at the piano in the South Cape Bar before our guests enjoyed dinner. Following dinner there was music for dancing in the Ballroom with the Saga Ruby Orchestra. For those who wanted to test their grey matter Cruise Staff Liliana held a fun general knowledge quiz in the Britannia Lounge. 

This evening’s Showtime was provided by The Gail Davies Production Cast in the appropriately named ‘Sail Away’ in the Ballroom and what a fantastic energetic show it was. Our guests could then enjoy a nightcap with Paul West in the South Cape Bar as he tinkled the ivories until late. Alternatively for those wishing to stay up a little later the Starlight trio entertained in the Preview under the stars before retiring for the evening.

We now have 3 days at sea to our next destination………