Ship spotting

I am now into my fourth week of enforced purdah due to the operation on my foot. Now I feeling better however, I have updating the catalogue of my ship photographs and continuing to scan my negatives. I was astonished to discover I have photographs (that is taken by myself) of 115 difference cruise ships. Out of the 284 or so listed in the current Berlitz Guide I guess I have quite a way to go to see them all!!

Many of those in my photos are no longer sailing anyway - Black Prince, Saga Fjord, Stefan Batory, Britannis - to name but a few, so that leaves even more to spot in my travels round the world.

Black Prince at Southampton after decommissioning, October 2009

Stefen Batory, Gdynia, 1977

During my upcoming cruise on Oceana to the Caribean, I expect we shall be in port with quite a few 'new' ships. According to the port schedules we will be in port with Pacific Princess, Celebrity Summit, Silver Spirit to name a few. I suppose it is little different to train spotting, but I love seeing cruise ships, comparing their differences, meeting their passengers and crew and watching them sail. I have no idea what it is about a great ship that can bring such variety of emotions. Perhaps Sir High Casson had it right when he said "Ships alone invite and receive an affection that is almost personal in its intensity." Bring it on!!

Carnival Victory arriving at St Maarten at dawn, 2011