1-10-2006 - Catalina Island

The next morning we tendered into one of our 2 ports of call.

This one was Catalina Island.

 We did a ship excursion that took us up to a botanical garden and also a tour of the town. We both enjoyed the tour and wouldn't mind going back there some day.

the Wrigley Memorial honors the memory of William Wrigley Jr., who lived from 1861 to 1932. Although best known as the founder of the Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company, largest manufacturer of chewing gum in the world, he also played an instrumental role in the history of Catalina Island. He truly loved the island, and with undying enthusiasm and energy, he brought numerous improvements: public utilities, new steamships, a hotel, The Casino building, and extensive plantings of trees, shrubs and flowers. William Wrigley Jr.'s greatest legacy was his remarkable vision and plan for the future of Catalina Island -- that it remain protected for all generations to enjoy.

 He had quite the desert garden

We even had this view of our ship from atop the "mountain" on the island.  And more views of the brown air over LA.

Back on board the ship, we enjoyed the nightly entertainment. Actually found the Carnival entertainment to be better , in my opinions, then the Disney, RCI, and Holland America cruises I've been on. I would also say their food was better then most, too---although I'm leaning toward Holland America as the best food right now.

They had lots of costume changes and stage changes. Made it visually more interesting.

So far so good.  I think Carolyn is enjoying cruising as much as I do!