Sorry for the delay Ian. I have been floored by this chest infection until yesterday so only just getting back into civilisation. I've just thought of something with regard to time allowed in port. Cruise itineraries have changed somewhat in the past few years which has led to some changes in port times, places visited and travel times. There are a number of reasons. A few years ago, cruises to Russia (St. Petersburg) and Israel (Haifa and Ashdod) were common and some ports were added to these itineraries on the way (Greek Islands, Egypt, Baltic, whatever). Because of the conflicts, Israel and Russia are no longer available. I tried 3 times to go to Israel, Jerusalem in particular. The first one was cancelled because of Covid, the second got to Haifa but did not call at Ashdod (for Jerusalem) as the locals were kicking off in the streets. Made it 3 years ago and it was wonderful. No organised trips for me. Sussed out the best fare at the bus station (very helpful lady), got on the local bus (55 minutes to Jerusalem). People said "Will you be safe?" There were 5 people with guns on the bus - everyone has to do National Service and carry their service weapons with them! People were genuinely grateful that tourists were visiting and could not have been more helpful. Anyway, I digress. The itineraries are changing and it is possible that port timings may be effected. When I was on QM2 last year, we were on a 35 day trip from Southampton via Canaries to the Caribbean and back again. Someone was taken ill (very common on Cunard - older people) in Madeira and we had to detour to Tenerife to drop them off. Apparently, Spanish hospitals are better than Portugese. We lost half a day and there was much discussion on board about whether we would stop in Grenada. People were calculating that the ship could easily make up the time by sailing faster as its top speed was much higher than we had been travelling, 30 knots instead of 20. The captain explained that we could not make up the time as there are now international speed limits imposed as an environmental measure and large fines. So, if the trip seems shorter than a few years ago, with fewer stops and less time in port, it is likely to be as a result of this.
