This book would not have been possible without the kind assistance of people who are as dedicated to cruising and cruise ships as I am. I owe them an enormous debt of gratitude for providing me with photographs, interviews, ideas, and even the odd coffee or two. Some of them I’ve only spoken to over countless emails and phone calls, while others have welcomed me into their homes and lives with open arms.
They gave me the world when I asked for a favour, and for that I am eternally grateful. They are: Brad Ball, Yvette Batalla, Mindy Bianca, Vanessa Bloy, Bart de Boer, Jackie Chase, Laurel Davis, Janet Diaz, Frans Dingemans, Erik Elvejord, Gina Finocchiaro, Elliot Gillies, Bruce Good, Ralph Grizzle, Vance Gulliksen, Torstein Hagen, Nina Helland, Ian Jeffries, Jennifer Kaake, Peter Knego, Vanessa Lane, Aileen Laurel, Jason Leppert, Ann Marie Matthews, Gail Nicolaus, Rebeka Pevec, Kimberly Plumridge, Adrian Raeside, and Maureen and Peter Saunders.
For those who share the same insane love of cruise ships, there are plenty of online resources available from talented people who really have devoted themselves, both professionally and personally, to documenting these beautiful vessels.
Avid Cruiser: www.avidcruiser.com
MaritimeMatters: www.maritimematters.com
Popular Cruising: www.popularcruising.com
ShipParade: www.shipparade.com