We arrived at the port around 2:30 or 2:45. There was no problem getting on as the masses checked in earlier, so we walked right on and to our room. We went immediatly to the life vest drill, and then to the sailaway. It sure beats the earlier arrival with masses of humanity. It was rough out of San Francisco, but all ports were visited. We met with the Meet and Greet group which was attended by the Captain and Hotel General Manager. Very nice. The lecturer, Jules Talarico, was excellent. We had traditional dinning and found the food very good. We even talked to the exccutive Chef telling him how much we liked the food. It was a far cry better than on the South American cruise.

Our mini suite was quite enough room for the two of us, although we were in a smaller room for 49 days and found no difficulty with that either. With the mini suite we had a tub rather than just a shower, but either is adequate. The waiter and junior waiter at our table were excellent. They were prompt, and responded to every request that people made at the table. One person had several entrees a few times, and the wait staff was excellent with bringing these. The staff on the tour desk was prompt and helpful as was the front desk. The photographers were attentive and helpful. The entertainment aboard ship has improved a great deal, and the production shows were packed as well. This is a great ship made greater by a great crew. The only suggestion I have is to figure out how to server the Alaska fish luncheon in a better method as the line went all the way around the swimming pool. Ten days is not enough, but was a wonderful break. I would suggest (as I did) a longer stay in Victoria because we hardly had time to visit anything. We would sail with the Grand anytime and pland on doing so soon. Remember, a positive attitude generally garners a positive experience.