Ramblings of a Salty Seadog

Although Princess Cruises was founded by Stanley B. McDonald back in 1965, at which time he chartered ships. In 1972 Princess Cruises...

In the early 1970’s P&O changed track from voyages and started to concentrate on the cruise market. In 1973 Oriana was converted from a...

When I joined Oriana in November 1973 we were due to set sail on a five week voyage to Australia. Everything was new to me on joining my...

Arrival at the Panama Canal always involves an early start for the ship’s company. Usually arriving very early morning. For the Purser’s...

There was always great excitement on deck when two P&O ships pass by in open water. Mediterranean cruising in 1974 Nevasa passes by...

I would say the Purser’s office was the heart of the ship, of course the deck department and engineering department might argue...

When I joined SS Oriana as my first ship in 1973, I was informed that a ship was like a floating city and with almost all services...

My first 21 months at sea whizzed past, they were exciting and thrilling, with many new experiences and challenges. The first twelve...

Having set sail on my maiden voyage as Junior Assistant Purser on Oriana in November 1973 we headed out of Southampton, after a brief...

What a treat to leave Pago Pago in America Samoa early in 1974. Flower petals are sprinkled over Oriana from the cable car as she departs...

Here you have the original team on Island Pricess when the ship was taken over by P & O in 1974 with Captain Biddick at the helm. We are...