We had moved from our berth after completing our engine works. Len, the Chief Engineer and his team have done a marvellous job carrying out the necessary repairs.  As we had some spare time, we’ve additionally checked the corresponding part on the starboard engine as well. So with all repairs complete, we manoeuvred the ship under our own steam which gave Len a chance to check the engines thoroughly.

Our 'Flag State Surveyors' checked the repairs independently, like an MOT at the garage. Whilst they were onboard, we also took the opportunity to put the crew through their paces and we carried out a lifeboat drill, with the launching of the boats on the port side.

As evening approached, I could feel the excitement of all onboard, as we waited to go back to sea. So at 2230, in a calm evening, we slipped away silently into the night and towards Gibraltar. It was a great feeling to get the ship “back on the open seas” again, and I think I speak on behalf of everybody, it was good to get some water under the keel again.

So we are off to Gibraltar to get some fuel and then we will sit at anchor for a few days to make a timed arrival for our Lisbon.

I took the opportunity to raid the sweetshop we have on deck 11 by the swimming pool. Our Hotel Operations Director, Ross Furlong has put in a Pick and Mix sweetshop for passengers to help themselves and he was chuckling when he showed me the labels on the sweet jars - Mrs Mclundies Sweets they are called and I enclose a photograph. So my legacy will live on, on this ship.

You have the Sweet Shop, the Fish and Chip Bar and also the Ice Cream Parlour all around the pool which makes for the unique British feel!!

We ran into a bit of fresh weather as we arrived in Gibraltar but the ship was steady as a rock in the head seas so I am already getting used to her motions and handling which is immensely enjoyable when bringing a new ship into service.

So I am back to writing my blogs, sorry for the absence, but  we are all back to normal now.

A new day and a new port for Saga Sapphire as we sailed into the beautiful city of Valencia, Spain. We were all tied fast by 8am this morning as guests enjoyed the sunshine beaming down on our lovely ship.

Many chose to take a leisurely trip into the city whilst others opted for the excursions on offer. For those who chose to stay on board Resty was hosting activities including deck quoits, darts and scattegories throughout the day.

On departure, we were carrying out our pre-departure checks in the engine room. During these checks, it was found that the cooling system on port side of the engine wasn’t performing. I informed the passengers that we would be staying overnight in Valencia to give Chief Engineer Len time to look at the issues properly.

Tonight the Britannia Lounge laid host to a full ship cocktail party with Robin Shaw, Chief Executive of Saga Shipping as he invited all our passengers for pre-dinner cocktails. Following dinner those keen quizzers could join cruise staff Rebecca for a fun general knowledge quiz in the Drawing Room followed by a musical interlude with cocktail pianist Andy Law.

Production showtime tonight saw Explosive Production’s present ‘The Big Wheels of Motown’ with a song and dance extravaganza reliving the golden age of Motown bringing us hits from the motorcity. We then continued the evening with music for dancing from the Sapphire Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts.

In the morning, I got an update from Chief Engineer Len that upon further investigation, a lengthier repair was going to be required. Sadly this was going to take a few days. I had to break the disappointing news to the guests, that the cruise would have to be curtailed.

But we enjoyed a last night together, a farewell party that was very well attended. I made my farewells, and as I was walking off stage, Cruise Director Jo called me back. Then from stage left, a piper appeared in the way of one of our passengers, playing the bagpipes for me, and as I walked off, all of a sudden, the room was full of passengers waving their napkins for me, in way of support. I felt extremely touched. I have to say I am not somebody who likes praise; it makes me feel uncomfortable as I am paid to do this job, and I try to do it as sincerely and as honestly as I can (great advice by my father). Although the guests were going to leave the ship in Valencia, they were full of praise for the ships company, who in my book are the real heroes.

The next morning I was on the quayside with my colleagues as the first of our passengers travelled home, again in style. Saga had chartered their own aircraft and Saga staff from head office and the ship went to the airport and organised everything. Even Horst Pint, Hotel Director, took a bus load of waiters to the airport to help our passengers and their baggage. You can imagine what funny looks he was getting from the airport staff with this bossy Austrian in uniform, directing waiters and busboys with suitcases in an Airport check in hall…

But nothing less for our guests. And for those passengers who did not wish to fly, we had luxury coaches going overland through France, with a 2 night stopover in a hotel, again with volunteers from the ship to be a friendly face on the bus and another bus to Santander and to Portsmouth. I was in awe at the organisation in such a short period of time and thanks go to Chris, our Shore excursions Manager, Horst and the Pursers, and all the Saga Holidays staff in head office. What I would call a great team effort!!

For our next port of call we sail into Barcelona, Spain which is one of the major Mediterranean ports and the financial and publishing centre of Spain. I rescheduled our arrival as there were many cruise ships arriving. So I rearranged with the pilots for an earlier pilot so when we arrived at 0630, we were first priority and we sailed in. I swung the ship off the dock and “reversed” into position. We were all fast at 0730. Our passengers collected their crosswords and sudoku ready to begin the day either independently or on a shore excursion in this wonderful city.

The first excursion to depart this morning was the 'Barcelona Panoramic' tour showing our passengers the city’s highlights from the comfort of a coach. Leaving the port, they headed first to the city’s imposing Gothic Cathedral. From here they carried onto the Olympic village built for the 1992 Olympic Games. Close by is the Forum coastline where there was a short break to relax at their own leisure, before returning back to the ship.

The next tour to leave us was the 'Montserrat with Rac'k train excursion visiting the sacred mountain of Montserrat or ‘Sawn Mountain’, where guests could admire spectacular views over the mountain ridge. After the 15 minute ascent by rack train, our guests visited the 16th century basilica, which was founded in 1025 in commemoration of an apparition of the Virgin on the mountain. Once at the top of the mountain our passengers were allocated a ticket that allows you entry into the Montserrat Audio-Visual Exhibition. Also given time our passengers could listen to a performance by the Escolania Boys Choir, one of the oldest boys choir in Europe, before returning back to the ship.

The last tour our guests enjoyed was 'Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia', Antoni Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece, is one of Barcelona’s most popular tourist attractions. On this excursion our guests had the opportunity to discover this remarkable church, before spending time wandering the surroundings at your leisure. Construction will continue for at least several more decades on this church which Gaudi himself said ‘The expiatory church of La Sagrada familia is made by the people and is mirrored in them. It is a work that is in hands of god and the will of the people.’

Those who stayed onboard could join cruise staff Rebecca, as she organised classic cruising games such as beanbag boules, shuffleboard or even 'Connect Four Fun'.

Tonight’s entertainment began with a fun general knowledge quiz in the Drawing Room with cruise staff Michelle followed by cabaret and cocktails with the sounds of our resident duo Perfect Mood.

Following dinner, guests could enjoy a classical concert in the Britannia Lounge with the Cairn String Trio as they presented ‘A night at the Movies’ including works by John Williams, Morricone and Mancini.

Showtime this evening came in the form of Steve Galler, the man with the golden banjo as he presented an unforgettable show taking a trip down memory lane with songs of old. We then continued the evening with more music for dancing from the Sapphire Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts. Those wanting to enjoy a nightcap could join Andy Law in Coopers bar for a sing-a-long and a cocktail or two.

Today we sailed into the beautiful port of Palma, Majorca with a little drizzle to start with the sun began to shine through as we arrived alongside at 8am. It is a very busy port with cruise ships and ferries and our berth was allocated inside a tricky set of turns. So slowly I negotiated the Sapphire around the tight turns, her rudder being very effective at slow speeds, and then we were lined up to the berth.

With an early start our guests gathered for the first tour 'The Caves of Dragon' to depart, one of Majorca’s top attractions this tour shows you the weird and wonderful natural formations in its chambers. Afterwards, to round off this unforgettable excursion, our guests travelled to Porto Cristo, a fishing town built around a natural harbour where there was time to relax on a sheltered beach or at one of the bars before returning to Palma.

Corniches and La Granja was the next tour to depart, this leisurely excursion highlighted the scenery and history of Majorca. From the pier took our guests on a 30-minute drive through Palma Nova and Santa Ponsa en route to Puerto Andraitx, a charming fishing village lined with narrow streets and the fortress-like church of Santa Maria. Finally arriving at La Granja de Esporles, a superb 17th century Majorcan manor house set in rustic surrounding. On the return journey the coach took our guests through the village of Esporles.

Another excursion many passengers took up was 'Panoramic Palma and Valldermossa' taking our guests on a coach throughout the morning driving along the seafront lined with hundreds of yachts, passing the magnificent Gothic Cathedral and Almudaina Palace. The coach then continues through the city’s old quarters, past the Gothic and modernist – style buildings and the lively ramblas. Afterwards, returning to Palma and viewing the exterior of the famous Bellver Castle and Bay of Palma before returning to the ship.

For those guests who enjoyed the sunshine on-board could join social hostess Donna throughout the day as she ran activities such as carpet bowls, table tennis or even giant Jenga!

Tonight we invited all those guests new to Saga for a cocktail or two with myself and my officers and staff out on the Verandah deck whilst watching the sun go down welcoming them into the Saga family, as we sailed away from Palma.

Sherlock Holmes was the movie of choice for those who wished to watch a film after dinner under the stars at our outdoor cinema at the View from The Top this evening.

Our keen quiz teams could join Assistant Cruise Director Kayls and cocktail pianist Andy Law tonight from 9.00pm in the Drawing Room for a special Sherlock Holmes murder mystery quiz.

In the Britannia Lounge this evening new to Saga vocalist Phillip Browne wowed our audience with his talents including songs by Barry White, Paul Robeson, Nat King Cole and much more ending with a standing ovation! We then continued the evening with music for dancing from the Saga Sapphire Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts.

Following the show guests could join Perfect Mood in Coopers Bar for a night cap and a possible sing a long until late.

For our next port of call Saga Sapphire sailed into Cartagena, Spain. Cartagena is a major naval station located in the region of Murcia, by the Mediterranean coast, south-eastern Spain. We arrived at 8am which gave our guests plenty of time to go ashore and exploring.

For those not travelling independently they could take one of the three tours on offer today. The first was the 'Highlights on Foot' tour. This walking tour let our guests discover the highlights of Cartagena, originally settled in 223 BC. They then walked along the sea wall to reach the Town Hall Square and the main avenue. Continuing onto the most important Roman archaeological site in the region, our passengers viewed the theatre in the heart of Cartagena which was lost for more than one and a half thousand years. They then had the choice of returning to the ship or staying in Cartagena and exploring independently.

In the afternoon two tours departed with the first being 'Navidad Fortress' exploring how this important military base defended the city for centuries. To start they joined a motor launch for a guided mini-cruise along the coast, passing the Alfonso XII Pier, the submarine base and Galeras Castle, before arriving at the fortress. Built on a strategically-located natural rocky outcrop, the fort was built in 1740 to protect the Spanish fleet that was based at Cartagena. After this historic visit our passengers returned by boat to the harbour and took a short walking tour of the city centre before returning to the ship.

Our final tour the 'Cartagena Harbour Cruise' was enjoyed by many as our guests boarded the boat to discover every corner of Cartagena’s natural harbour and learn more about the cities defence fortifications, monuments, forts and coastal batteries. As the guide entertained with stories of legends of the role Cartagena has played over the last 3000 years.

On-board Saga Sapphire cruise staff Michelle entertained our guests with games such as beanbag boules, shuffleboard and Uno throughout the day. As we sailed away this afternoon guests could join all of the cruise staff out on the back deck for a complimentary glass of rum punch with musical accompaniment from duo Perfect Mood.

We invited guests to join cruise staff Rebecca at 6pm for this fun general knowledge quiz in the Drawing Room followed by cabaret and cocktails and the sounds of duo Perfect Mood.

Once again in the Britannia Lounge to begin this evening’s entertainment the Cairn String Trio take to the stage as they presented ‘The American Song Book’ including works by Gershwin, Sinatra and The Beach Boys.

Tonight’s showtime took us on a musical journey from London’s West End to New York’s Broadway with the Explosive Production Cast and ‘West End to Broadway’ following with music for dancing from the Sapphire Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts.

For those who wanted a night cap could join Andy Law our cocktail pianist for cocktails and a possible sing-song until late.

For our next port of call on the Inaugural Cruise, Saga Sapphire sailed into Casablanca, Morocco and we were alongside with the sun beaming at around midday. After two days at sea our guests were looking forward to see the sights that Casablanca had to offer.

As it is a familiar port, the pilots just ask us to keep proceeding past the pilot station and we pick them up inside the port itself. Then I usually keep the control of the ship where we take a wide sweep to port to get the ship into position for a starboard side alongside berth.

Two tours departed this afternoon with the first being the 'Casablanca City Tour' which many of our guests took part in, this excursion took our passengers on a drive into the city, heading first for the largest mosque in Morocco, Hassan II, set on a promontory overlooking the ocean, then enjoying a drive along the corniche they stopped at a seaside hotel for cooling refreshments. Returning to the city centre, they headed for the Habbous Quarter to see the Royal Palace and the French Cathedral of Notre Dame, before either returning to the ship or explore Casablanca independently.

The second tour 'Casablanca City Tour & Hassan II Mosque', took our guests straight to the Habbous quarter and the Royal Palace where they could view the Mhakama du Pasha law courts and the Cathedral Notre Dame. They then took the coastal road to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the finest examples of modern Moroccan craftsmanship. The mosque can accommodate 25,000 worshippers and at night during Ramadan the 650-foot minaret emits a laser beam in the direction of Mecca. With a pause at a hotel for some refreshments our guests continued onto the Anfa district of the city and then to the hustle and bustle of the city centre where there was some free time for shopping and independent exploration.

With a later departure this evening our passengers had a variety of entertainment at their fingertips beginning with Team Trivia in the Drawing Room with social hostess Donna as they tested their general knowledge, following with cabaret and cocktails and the sounds of Perfect Mood before dinner.

After dinner those who fancied a flutter could head up to the Drawing Room and join the cruise staff for an evening of ‘Horsing Around’ at Ascot. Alternatively guests could enjoy the 'View from the top' and watch a movie under the stars with tonight’s film Casablanca.

In the Britannia Lounge, Explosive Productions blew us away tonight with their tribute to the music of the legendary Beatles and presented ‘All You Need Is Love’ as we continued the evening with music for dancing from the Sapphire Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts.

Following showtime guests could enjoy gourmet bites in the grill or listen to the wonderful sounds of Perfect Mood our resident duo in the Drawing Room over a late night drink.

As Saga Sapphire sailed into her first port at around 10am the Saga flag waved proudly in the wind as our passengers got ready to go out and explore this wonderful city El Ferrol in the province of A Coruna in Gallicia, located on the Atlantic coast of western spain.

We had, had a good crossing of the Bay of Biscay and although it was a little choppy, the ship handled it well, and I was pleased to be putting her through her paces.

For those who booked the option of an organised excursion there were four to choose from today with the tour Santiago de Compostella being the first to leave, this excursion gave our passengers a wonderful opportunity to view the pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostella, visiting the beautiful cathedral which dominates Obradoiro Square where our guests were taken on a tour round the cathedral with free time to browse the local shops. Before heading back to El ferrol there was a pause for refreshments and entertainment from a choral group at the Hotel Reyes Catolicos.

The second of our tours to depart was called 'Santiago on your Own' for those who wished to go at their own pace on this half day excursion. Leaving the ship by coach to visit the city with its charming old quarter and beautiful Cathedral, and enjoy some free time before returning to the ship for lunch.

Next to leave was the 'Galicia’s Scenic Coastline' tour where our passengers could discover the natural attractions surrounding El Ferrol, driving along the coast with its typical Galician villages and enjoy the views of the nearby beaches, forests and estuaries. They then travelled along the coast to Pontedeume, which is surrounded on one side with unique views of the forest and estuaries finally, arriving at the mouth of the estuary for refreshments in a local restaurant before returning to the ship.

The final excursion of the day was 'Maritime El Ferrol' with the city being a major naval shipbuilding centre for most of its history. On this excursion our passengers start with a visit to the impressive naval camp for a short panoramic drive through passing the Bell, a dry dock made in the 19th century before arriving at the camp's two museums. Before returning to the ship stopping for a short refreshment whilst taking in the fantastic views of Galicia coastline.

For those guests who stayed on-board today they could join cruise staff Rebecca and Explosive Cast Productions' Michael & Hayley for some classic cruising games such as carpet bowls, darts and deck quoits.

We slipped away at 1700 for our next port of call, Casablanca. Team trivia kicks off tonight’s entertainment on-board in the Drawing Room as guests could join cruise staff Michelle to test the grey matter in teams with this fun general knowledge quiz. This followed with cabaret and cocktails and the sounds of our resident duo Perfect Mood.

Tonight’s entertainment began in the Britannia Lounge with the Cairn String Trio as they presented ‘A Night at the Opera’ including works from Verdi, Puccini and Bizet.

Following our Classical Concert, cabaret showtime this evening was opened by the Explosive Production Cast as we then invited talented comedian Dave Kristian to take to the stage and laugh the night away. The evening continued with music for dancing by the Sapphire Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts.

Our guests could then enjoy Andy Law for late night libations in Coopers Bar and a possible sing-a-long until late.

On a glorious day in Southampton we set sail on our beautiful new ship Saga Sapphire for her Inaugural Cruise, albeit a little later than expected. We had finalised all our inspections by the local inspectors, a statutory requirement for all ships, and once the inspection was complete and I too was happy all was ready, we set sail. Our passengers were in good spirits, exploring the beautiful interior of the new ship and the crew were ready and excited to provide superior service. We had carried out the obligatory passenger lifeboat drill before we sailed, and as I made my welcome onboard and sailaway speech, I felt a great sense of pride.

Having been with Saga since they started cruising in 1997, and having been Master with them now for 12 years, I have been privileged through my time with the company, in being asked to sail the last four ships out on their inaugural cruises. I started Saga Ruby, Spirit of Adventure, Saga Pearl II and now Saga Sapphire. I remember the call last year from the company asking if I would do this and I was delighted. I had expected some of my colleagues to get the opportunity and it was time to give someone else the challenge that is associated with the Inaugural cruising. When the call came I was Master of Saga Pearl II and very happy as she's another lovely ship that has settled down nicely into the fleet. But not wishing to turn down a challenge I readily accepted, and am very pleased to be working with such a great level-headed team onboard, with familiar names such as Horst Pint, Hotel Director, Len Blinston, Chief Engineer, Matthew Henderson, Staff Captain and Jo Boase, Cruise Director to name a few. So we had the best team for the job. And with the scope of work undertaken, it was needed to have such a strong team.

So as we sailed away, our passengers enjoyed a glass of bucks fizz out on the Verandah deck with the cruise staff. Many familiar as well as new faces decided to join us on this new adventure for Saga and in the end all our hard work had come together to set off on Sapphire’s maiden voyage.

After departure our guests could enjoy the Saga traditional afternoon tea served in the Britannia Lounge with music from our resident duo Perfect Mood. For those guests looking for a giggle or two, Cooper’s bar was the place to be as many enjoyed the legendary comedy of Tommy Cooper over a cup of tea.

To begin this evening’s entertainment passengers could join Assistant Cruise Director Kayleigh in the Drawing Room, as she put their grey matter to the test with this fun general knowledge quiz. Alternatively some could take their partners for a quick step or foxtrot in the Britannia Lounge with The Sapphire Orchestraand our gentlemen hosts and enjoy some pre-dinner dancing.

This evening guests could enjoy a six course dinner in our new Pole to Pole restaurant compliments of our Executive Chef Tierry Cherronet. Following dinner the entertainment continued in the Britannia Lounge in the form of our first classical concert on board as we invited the Cairn String Trio to present ‘Slanj a va including works from the Scottish Highlands to the Borders.

Tonight was to be the first night in which Explosive Productions took to the stage in the Britannia Lounge for production showtime as they proudly presented ‘Let’s Swing’ which took us on a magical journey through the greatest hits both old and modern from legendary swing artists. We then continued the evening with music for dancing from The Sapphire Orchestra and our gentlemen hosts.

After showtime many could enjoy gourmet bites in the grill or join cocktail pianist Andy Law for a late night drink to some good music, as some retired for the evening to enjoy our first sea day tomorrow en route to El Ferrol, Spain.

Once we cleared the Nab Tower, we set course to the south west, along the channel, the bridge officers settling things down on the bridge with all her new equipment, and the same in the engine room, and I retired to my bed late that evening, happy to be putting some water under the keel now, and sailing the ship how she should be sailed, with our guests onboard enjoying the new ship.