I noted the last review was written by our New Zealand friends. Sailing with friends almost always makes up the bumps that occur when traveling. Our cruise on the Queen of the West was virtually without bumps. I met Captain Simmons right away and it quickly became evident that he has passed on to his crew his philosophy of taking care of his passengers.

Warner gave us a great first day and it was really difficult for his replacement to live up to his enthusiasm. Jess, our tour guide, was a Mouseketeer reincarnated with a bubbly personality. Cindy, driver of bus #1, could make her living as a standup comedian! When she wasn't providing descriptions and history for our tours, she filled the gaps with humor that kept us in stitches. After our lucky first ride with her, I would "sprint" to her bus to grab seats for my wife and NZ friends.

The crew was made up of young college students who served our well prepared meals then changed into their housekeeping duds to make up our rooms. The rooms are small but expected. Read more