Royal Caribbean And Pirates Blog

Group Presentation What is a cruise ship? A cruise ship or cruise liner is a passenger ship used for pleasure voyages, where the voyage itself and the ship's amenities are part of the experience. Cruise ships operate mostly on routes that return passengers to their originating port. In contrast, ocean liners do "line voyages" and typically transport passengers from one point to another, rather than on round trips.A river cruise ship has similar amenities, but is shorter, narrower, and has a shallower draft, allowing it to travel inland waterways. The first vessel built exclusively for this purpose was the Prinzessin Victoria Luise, commissioned by Albert Ballin. The ship was completed in 1900. With the advent of large passenger jet aircraft in the 1960s, intercontinental travellers largely switched from ships to planes, sending the ocean liner trade into a slow decline. The 1970s television show The Love Boat, featuring Princess Cruises' since-sold ship Pacific Princess, did much to raise awareness of cruises as a vacation option for ordinary people in the United States. Initially this growth was centered around the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexico, but now encompasses all areas of the globe.

Royal Caribbean International Royal Caribbean International is a Norwegian / American cruise line company based in Miami, Florida. It is a brand of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., with 21 ships in service and two under construction. All the ships have names ending in "of the Seas”. Some must-have cruise items:  WHAT TO PACK: On the first day... pack a small carry-on bag with your travel documents, a change of clothes, bathing suit, workout clothes, and any medications you may need. That way you don't have to wait for your checked bags to arrive in your stateroom. Onboard attire (clothes of a particular or formal type) Shorts, t-shirts, slacks, trousers, casual skirts, blouses and sundresses are all perfect during the day, whether indoors or out. For lounging by the pool, pack two bathing suits and a pair of casual shoes (e.g., flipflops, sandals, sneakers). If you're planning to visit our onboard fitness center, be sure to bring extra shorts, tshirts and socks that you won't mind working out in - plus a pair of tennis or running shoes/sneakers.

Dinner attire...

Group Presentation Suggested guidelines for these nights are: Casual: Sport shirts and slacks for men, sundresses or pants for women Smart Casual: Jackets and ties for men, dresses or pantsuits for women Formal: Suits and ties or tuxedos for men, cocktail dresses for women Onshore attire... You'll need comfortable walking shoes, as well as a hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun. If you are cruising to Northern Europe or Alaska, remember that nights on deck can be cool. Bring sweaters, jackets and long pants. And if you'll be touring any museums, cathedrals or churches, it's always wise to dress conservatively. You may also want to bring a raincoat, hiking shoes and a travel umbrella. And don't forget your swimsuit - it may be cool outside but it's always warm in our Solarium.  WHAT NOT TO PACK For the safely of our guests, the following items are not allowed onboard: Electrical Transformers, Coffee Makers, Candles, Irons, Illegal Drugs, personal alcohol, Flammable Liquids and Explosives, such as fireworks. For security purposes, we also recommend not packing any valuables (such as jewelry) in your checked luggage.  POLICIES AGE POLICY No guest under the age of twenty-one (21) will be reserved in a stateroom unless accompanied by an adult twenty-one (21) years of age, or older. INFANT POLICY Infants sailing on a cruise must be at least 6 months old as of the first day of the cruise/cruisetour. ALCOHOL POLICY Effective as of all sailings commencing on or after July 28, 2006, the minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages on all Royal Caribbean International ships is 21. Guests who violate any alcohol policies, (over consume, provide alcohol to people under age 21, demonstrate irresponsible behavior, or attempt to conceal alcoholic items at security and or luggage check points or any other time), may be disembarked or not allowed to board, at their own expense, in accordance with our Guest Conduct Policy. GAMBLING POLICY Guests eighteen (18) years of age and older are welcome to play in our casinos (for all Alaska sailings, guests must be 21 years of age in order to play in our casinos)  TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION Passengers have to take their identification, Passport, Visa (if it’s an international sailing). Children: the child’s birth certificate.  ONBOARD SECURITY This includes the use of closed-circuit cameras and other technology, and an increase in security personnel. There are also metal detectors and x-ray. Similar to those found at airports, these are used to prevent passengers from bringing aboard contraband.

Group Presentation Freedom of the Seas - Ship Description Freedom of the Seas brings onboard innovation to the next level. Among the roster of standout features scattered among 15 decks are a shipboard surf park, a kid-friendly water park with gushing geysers, and cantilevered whirlpools extending 12 feet off the sides of the ship--along with expanded versions of the signature rock-climbing wall and ice-skating rink, both of which deliver Royal Caribbean International-style adventures in true form to passengers of all ages. The ShipShape Day Spa and Fitness center contains state-of-the-art exercise equipment along with classes and a wide range of relaxing treatments. Golfers will find a putting green and golf simulators, and shoppers will find a range of boutiques. Children are invited to avail themselves of Adventure Ocean youth facilities. Extensive WiFi capabilities and connectivity for regular cell phones means that you'll always be able to stay in touch. Extensive dining facilities allow you to choose your pleasure, whether it's in one of the main dining rooms or in a specialty restaurant. After dinner, themed bars and lounges create a welcoming evening atmosphere, whether you're seeking disco dancing or a jazz trio. Take your chances in the Casino Royale, or go people-watching along the Royal Promenade. Dynamic productions in the main theatre embody the glitz and special effects of Broadway or Las Vegas, no matter where you sail. 

Ship Facts:

Passenger Capacity: 3,634. Gross Tonnage: 160,000 (it means the total size of a ship) Length: 1,112' (length: the measurement of something from one end to another). Beam: 184' (beam: the widest part of a ship from side to side) Draft: 28' (draft: the depth of water needed for a boat to be able to float). Cruising Speed: 21.6 knots (one knot is approximately 1.85 kilometres per hour) 15 decks (floors).  Ship accommodations: The rooms are classified into suites (or deluxe rooms) and staterooms. They all have a tv, phone, private bath, shower, etc).  Ship destinations: Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean. There are 7, 8, 9 and 10-day cruises.

Bibliography: www.wikipedia.com www.cruiseweb.com www.royalcaribbean.com

Group Presentation

PIRATES Elizabethan Pirates or Privateers The Elizabethan era was the Age of Exploration from which emerged the Famous Elizabethan Pirates and the Golden Age of Pirates. Many of the Elizabethan explorers were also classed as pirates due to their attacking the Spanish treasure fleet and the Spanish colonies. Elizabethan Privateers were lawful pirates who were authorised by their government and sovereign to attack the treasure ships of enemy nations. The English government issued ‘letters of marque’ to the famous Elizabethan pirates which licensed these sailors to plunder enemy ships. Letters of marque and reprisal, commissioned by the government, distinguished it from unauthorised pirate ships. They also prevented privateers from being charged with piracy, which was an offence ordinarily punishable by death. Famous Elizabethan Pirate Captains Famous Elizabethan Pirate Ships Sir Francis Drake

The Pelican, renamed the Golden Hind

Sir Walter Raleigh

Donated 'The Ark Royal' to the Navy

Sir Richard Hawkins

The Galliot Duck

Sir Martin Frobisher

The Gabriel, The Triumph

Sir Humphrey Gilbert

The Raleigh, the Swallow & the Squirrel

Sir Richard Grenville

The Revenge

Famous Women Pirates Women pirates were a relatively rare occurrence but nether-the-less some female pirates did exist. Women were considered to be an undesirable addition to a pirate ship. All famous pirates had their own Pirate Code of Conduct which was agreed between the crew and Captain. These codes were governed by their own laws, called Articles. Article VI of the Pirate Code agreed by Bartholomew Roberts (Black Bart) and his pirate crew in the Shipboard Articles of 1721 stated: No boy or woman to be allowed amongst them. If any man shall be found seducing any of the latter sex and carrying her to sea in disguise he shall suffer death. Women were known to get over such codes by cross-dressing. Females dressed as men in order to seek their fortune, or to follow husbands to sea. The most famous women pirates included Anne Bonney and Mary Read.

The Colours of Pirate Flags - the Red Pirate Flags and the Black Pirate flags The background colours of real pirate flags were either red or black. Although black is most associated with pirate flags, the very first pirate flags were in fact red! The colour red in pirate flags symbolised bloodshed. Red pirate flags also symbolised a warning. The French name for the red flag was the Jolie Rouge. The red pirate flags were quickly replaced by black pirate flags. The colour black symbolised death. Black flags were traditionally flown on Plague ships as a warning to other ships. The pirates flew under flags called the 'banner of King Death'. The black and red pirate flags were further embellished with more graphic symbols of death and destruction such as a skull, crossed bones, a skeleton, swords, etc.

The Pirate Code of Conduct The Pirate Code of Conduct consisted of a number of agreements between the Captain and pirate crew which were called Articles. This was necessary as pirates were not governed by any other rules such as Naval Regulations. Pirate captains were elected and could lose their position for abuse of their authority. The captain enjoyed few privileges. The Pirate Code of Conduct - Bartholomew Roberts Shipboard Articles 1721

Group Presentation Bartholomew Roberts, also known as "Black Bart" or "Black Barty", was one of the most successful pirates, The following Code of Conduct was agreed by Bartholomew Roberts and his Pirate Crew - an important element of the success of this particular Pirate. ARTICLE I - Every man shall have an equal vote in affairs of moment. He shall have an equal title to the fresh provisions or strong liquors at any time seized, and shall use them at pleasure unless a scarcity may make it necessary for the common good that a retrenchment may be voted. ARTICLE II - Every man shall be called fairly in turn by the list on board of prizes, because over and above their proper share, they are allowed a shift of clothes. But if they defraud the company to the value of even one dollar in plate, jewels or money, they shall be marooned. If any man robs another he shall have his nose and ears slit, and be put ashore where he shall be sure to encounter hardships. ARTICLE III - None shall game for money either with dice or cards. ARTICLE IV - The lights and candles should be put out at eight at night, and if any of the crew desire to drink after that hour they shall sit upon the open deck without lights. ARTICLE V - Each man shall keep his piece, cutlass and pistols at all times clean and ready for action. ARTICLE VI - No boy or woman to be allowed amongst them. If any man shall be found seducing any of the latter sex and carrying her to sea in disguise he shall suffer death. ARTICLE VII - He that shall desert the ship or his quarters in time of battle shall be punished by death or marooning. ARTICLE VIII - None shall strike another on board the ship, but every man's quarrel shall be ended on shore by sword or pistol in this manner. At the word of command from the quartermaster, each man being previously placed back to back, shall turn and fire immediately. If any man do not, the quartermaster shall knock the piece out of his hand. If both miss their aim they shall take to their cutlasses, and he that draweth first blood shall be declared the victor. ARTICLE IX - No man shall talk of breaking up their way of living till each has a share of l,000. Every man who shall become a cripple or lose a limb in the service shall have 800 pieces of eight from the common stock and for lesser hurts proportionately. ARTICLE X - The captain and the quartermaster shall each receive two shares of a prize, the master gunner and boatswain, one and one half shares, all other officers one and one quarter, and private gentlemen of fortune one share each. ARTICLE XI - The musicians shall have rest on the Sabbath Day only by right. On all other days by favour only. i.e.: I. II. III. IV. V. VI. VII. VIII. IX. X. XI.

Equal Voting Rights Fair share of the loot and pirates punishments for those who cheated Gambling was banned No lights at night - a pirate’s sleep should not be disturbed Each pirate was responsible for the upkeep of their weapons No Boys or women allowed on board Penalty for Desertion No fighting between pirates on board the ship A Pension according to the severity of wounds Shares of the loot or booty Musicians available to play when required!

Pirate Clothing - Flouting the Elizabethan Sumptuary Laws

Group Presentation Elizabethan Sumptuary Laws dictated what color of clothing and the materials and fabrics which could be used for each social level. The Elizabethan Sumptuary Laws therefore enforced what clothing individuals were allowed to own and wear. This was an easy and immediate way to identify rank and privilege. Pirates, especially those successful and wealthy, took great delight in flouting the Elizabethan Sumptuary Laws! Anything went fine - velvets and silks and such fabrics which had been previously banned to anyone other than those in the Upper Classes. Pirate Clothing - The Motley Crew The fabrics used in pirate clothing depended on how wealthy they were and what clothing had been stolen. Motley was a multi-coloured woollen fabric woven of mixed threads in 14th to 17th century England used for the pirate’s clothes - hence the expression 'Motley Crew'. Many of the tasks performed by the pirates were extremely arduous - clothing could be easily ripped, tattered and torn. The pirate clothing for ordinary seamen, by necessity was tight fitting. Loose fighting clothes would be dangerous when performing tasks like climbing the rigging. The clothing of the captain or pirate clothing worn on land did not need to follow such requirements.

List of Pirate Clothing Motley clothing - bright mis-matched colours Bandana - A pirate clothing item which kept the sweat out of the pirate's eyes  Tri-cornered hat - made of various materials including leather  Doublet or coat - Expensive item of pirate clothing. Decorated with ornate braids and fabrics  Breeches - trousers were generally only worn by English pirates  Waistcoats - flamboyant addition to pirate clothing  Drawers - tight fitting to allow for the difficult tasks of a pirate  Stockings - Woollen stockings for practical apparel and silk for land use  Shirts - The puffed sleeves were suited to pirate clothing on land Pirate Clothing - the Accessories  Gold Hoop Earrings - A sign of wealth but also believed to serve a practical purpose in easing sea sickness by applying pressure to ear lobes!  Bracelets, chains, pins and pendants - Gold, silver, precious jewels and pearls  Sash – a long narrow piece of cloth worn round the waist and fastened at the back  Braids and ribbons - Blackbeard was famous for tying black braids to his beard and hair.  Pirate Boots - Ranged from boot covers, to Bucket boots up to thigh-high boots.  Pirate belts - worn around the waist and diagonally across the shoulder in order to take the weight of pirate weapons  Buckles - Ornate buckles were used to adorn pirate belts and shoes  Fancy buttons - a decorative addition to pirate clothing  Scarves - a flamboyant addition to pirate clothing  Wigs - stolen or purpose made - favoured by Pirate captains  

Pirate Clothing - the Weapons

Group Presentation   

The pirate cutlass - A heavy curved sword with only one, but deadly, cutting edge Daggers - often held in the leather belts Pistols

Some more idioms Blood is thicker than water: i.e. family relationships are stronger and more important than others. "When my best friend and my brother got in a fight I had to help my brother; blood is thicker than water." Test the water /waters: To try to discover what people think about an idea before you do anything about it, or to try to discover what a situation is really like before you become very involved in it: You should go to a couple of meetings to test the waters before you decide whether to join the club. Spend money like water: To spend too much Carol spends money like water - no wonder she's always broke. Be water under the bridge British, American & Australian, American: be water over the dam: Sth that happened a long time ago and no one is upset about it now. We certainly had our disagreements in the past, but that's all water under the bridge now. Any port in a storm: Something that you say which means you must accept any help you are offered when you are in a difficult situation, although you may not want to do this I don't even like him very much, but I had to move out of my flat and he offered me a place to stay. Any port in a storm, as they say. Pour oil on troubled waters: To do or say something in order to make people stop arguing and become calmer. She was furious with Dave for forgetting her birthday so I tried to pour oil on troubled waters by offering to take them both out for a meal. Burn the midnight oil: To work very late into the night I've got to finished this report by tomorrow so I guess I'll be burning the midnight oil tonight. A port of call: A place where you stop for a short time, especially on a journey. Our first port of call was the delightful town of Bruges. The tip of the iceberg: A small part of a big problem or a difficult situation. The difficulties we've discussed are only the tip of the iceberg. Between the devil and the deep blue sea: To be in a state in which you must choose between two equally unpleasant situations. For most people a visit to the dentist is the result of a choice between the devil and the deep blue sea - if you go you suffer, and if you don't go you suffer.

Group Presentation Royal suite

Interior stateroom

Group Presentation