Memories of the Independence debut

I remember when Royal Caribbean launched the Independence of the seas to have it’s maiden voyage out of Southampton in May 2008 This I remember upsetting the Americans as we had their newest and largest ship of the time. I was amongst the top 50 cruise club for Thomson so being in the top sellers we had an amazing treat. On the 27th April we were invited onto the Independence for Two nights to experience this brand new ship before it’s maiden voyage to the public.  Of courses we had to jump at this opportunity.  Told we would only be docked and not going anywhere but still Two days and a free bar on board and to enjoy the facilities was still a treat. Once on board we were asked to put on our life vests and report to our muster stations, bit confused here thinking why do we need to do an emergency drill when they not planning to take us to sea. We did so and then to surprise everyone on board we sailed away.  For two days it was just sailing, I believe we sailed up to Guernsey and back.  To be on a new Royal Caribbean ship and a free bar was just fantastic. All inclusive and didn’t we make the most of it. Course I had to have a little go in the casino and once I showed them a few of my own card tricks I was told I wouldn’t be allowed to play the tables….. oops! Thought I could card count so wasn’t allowed to play.  I remember thinking at the time of how many of my own customers I had booked and yet I was here first. I couldn’t wait to get home and call them and tell them all about  it. A brand new spanking ship and a real pleasure to be on it before the official maiden voyage. I’m now tempted to look at the NCL’s latest ship and get a day in on that before it’s maiden voyage but with already being  booked to go away in January I may have to wait and look out for some new ships in the future.