We've been back now for a day from the cruise and I'm still not down from the clouds.
For now, if you want check out how it went, read the threads in the following FB group. You'll have to join it first. Many of you will know some of the people who posted there.
http://www.facebook.com/groups/491583210888514/
All the superlatives used to describe the experience are true. I can't add much to awesome, amazing, heaven on earth, vacation of a lifetime, brought tears to my eyes.
I intended to write setlists, and reviews for each performance but that would take me too much time. Others will do it better.
For me just a few musical highlights:
1.Watching Hackett's 2nd (outdoor) set from the railing above the pool deck, I was torn between watching the band in front of me or watching a reunion between Squire, Roger Dean, Howe, Jobson, Wetton and Downes 10 feet to my left.. I was tempted to ask them to shut the f**k up during Firth of Fifth, but thought better of it. Pics to follow.
2. IO Earth. These guys (and girl) impressed me a lot at Ros and watching a whole new set of fans discover them was fun. The surprise hit for many.
3. Carl Palmer's guitarist, Paul something-or-other and bassist Simon Fitzpatrick.
4. All of GftO, Yes Album. Jon Davison did a great job, as did Nad Sylvan in Hackett's band.
5. Vocalist for Zebra, looks and sounds like Robert Plant, but better.
6. Roye Albrighton and Nektar sounding fantastic. Much better live than I expected.
7. Wetton guesting the vocals for Afterglow.
A major highlight for me was the comraderie among fans and musicians, similar to the feeling I get going to Rosfest, Nearfest, and (perhaps one day) Progday. Each group did a Q&A session and they were (mostly) great.
They will be having a cruise in 2014. My advice: Beg borrow or steal for it. You will not be disappointed if it's only half as good as this one was.