On Sunday night, the first formal night, the Captain, Thore Thorolvsen from Norway, had a welcoming party. Champagne flowed freely for about an hour. This replaced the tradition Captain’s cocktail party. The Captain made a welcoming speech from the Royal Promenade. He appears to hatch from what looks like a giant egg (O.k. it’s a giant globe above the pub) which splits in two and grows a bridge, so he can walk on in out above the assembled guest below. For the Farewell Party there was no champagne but lots of music and introductions of just about everyone who worked on the ship! All the characters were there dancing with the children. On other nights during the cruise there were street parades and parties “Rockin Rhythm Nation Street Party” (based on rhythms and ethnic diversity from around the world), Lollapalooza Street Party (a fantasy mix of characters, comic, and musicians) and 1970s Street Party (the best disco anthems and performances of the 70s). The Royal Promenade was always a busy place!