The best vacation in a long time

[fyffer]

Last weekend, July 24-28, my wife and I embarked on a wonderful cruise on the Windjammer Victory Chimes out of Rockland Maine. She is the largest commercial windjammer under the American Flag at about 120 feet long. She was built in 1900 as a cargo vessel, and converted to a passenger ship after WWII. Victory Chimes is also depicted on the back of the Maine state quarter (minted 2003).

Some of the historical details escape me, but the pics speak for themselves.

One of the great things about this particular trip, is that it was an "Irish Music Cruise", and I had the privilege and pleasure of being "in the band". Each evening after dinner, we retired to the "salon" for a great Irish session. The sailing weather was not ideal most of the time, but that took nothing away from the great views, crew and new friends we made. I think this is going to be an annual trip for us. We got some great photos, and I wanted to share with everybody. Enjoy.

Click here:
Shutterfly album
Then click on "View Album" underneath my ugly mug, and then "Play Slideshow" for the best interface.

[brewerpaul]

Oh man, we were considering one of those cruises this summer. Someday...

[cowtime]

Wow! What a trip. I can see from the pictures why y'all had such a great time.

That would be FUN!

[The Weekenders]

Stunning. I love those pix. A fine vessel, beautiful coastline, Irish music, beer....Truly a summer dream. Thanks for sharing.

[Charlene]

Very nice pictures. Even the foggy days look like they were fun. I really like the stormy sunset. And it's nice to know I'm not the only one who takes pictures of signs - my husband always makes fun of me when I do that.

[Joseph E. Smith]

Thanks for sharing this with us! Man, my heart is so there right now!