Patricia April 28th, 2008

It seems that we may have friends in high places.  I wish I could tell you all the details, including the e-mail and phone numbers I have — but alas, somethings are mine and I get to use the power sparingly.  However, I have important planning information to share about your time in Seattle.

First, if you live in Seattle or are having someone drop you off, and want to wait for as little time as possible — I suggest that you time your arrival at the pier around the 7 to 8pm hours.  The idea is that the check-in lines will be shorter and the only waiting you’ll have is just to board the ship.

Second, order of boarding will be order of check-in, except for the suite folks.  So, if you are debating coming and checking in and then leaving  do it.  Check in early and then try to return to the pier between 7 and 8pm.

Curious about the Snack Packs?  Well, I’m hearing they are up-sized versions of the snack packs from the airlines — the ones you pay for.  There is supposed to be choices, plus a few bottles of water per person.  In addition, there may be cookies at somepoint in the afternoon — though I’m not sure I want to sit in the Terminal when I could be in Seattle for a cookie — but if you are just staying put, look out for the cookies (and yes, you may have mine too.)

The shuttle service from Bell St. Pier (Pier 66) to Terminal 30 runs until 9pm.  So, if you are downtown and want to get back to the Terminal 30, you ought to be able to take that shuttle.

Does anyone want to know WHY we are leaving from Terminal 30 and not Pier 66?  Well, it seems that Terminal 30 is HUGE and Pier 66 is small.  This allows for more seating and more bodies to be able to wait with some comfort.

I’m being told that check-in will go until 10pm — though please don’t give me heart failure and wait that long.  This means that you ought to have plenty of time to get to the pier.

Remember, if you are parking, park at Pier 66.

If you are needing wheelchair assistance, you will have a special process to board the ship and they have a plan.  You will have a special waiting area, and will get to have one person to help you on board.

Best game plan — get to the pier check-in.  Return back to the pier by 8pm (esp if you have carry-on bags you have checked in for holding). Wait a short bit of time (bring knitting and look for other people knitting — you’ll meet people in the terminal). Board ship.  Drink adult beverages.

Note, this is the first time in a few years they are doing one of these odd boardings, but there are reasons that this will probably become more common for a few trips a year.  There may be bumps in the road, but we are knitters and we can handle it.  And also remember, if you have any ideas on how to make this process easier (after we’ve gone through it) there will be a survey to fill out.

• Sea Socks '08
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