We worried for some time over the logistics of getting from the Marriott Courtyard near Schiphol Airport into the cruise terminal in Amsterdam with five suitcases, given Gary's neck and shoulder problems. We did not qualify for Celebrity's airport transfers to the port, which are only for cruisers arriving in Amsterdam on the day of departure. So a three-part trip -- shuttle from the hotel to airport, intercity train from the airport to Central station, then streetcar or taxi from Central Station to the cruise terminal -- seemed our only option. We were preparing to do this, when the Marriott overbooked the airport shuttle that morning, so had to engage an extra van. The driver of the additional van agreed to take us straight to the pier for only 30 Euros per couple -- a tender mercy indeed! However, with persons AND luggage included, only two of three couples could fit into the van. Bruce and Jan generously volunteered to take the airport shuttle, train and streetcar to the pier.
So Bob, Christine, Gary and Rhonda breezed onto the ship in the first wave of cruisers. Once into Amsterdam, poor Bruce and Jan caught the streetcar in the wrong direction, but took the opportunity to shop for some needed goods at a market near their first stop. Thanks for kindly yielding to the more sickly and aged members of your family, Bruce and Jan... Bon Voyage, everyone!
