Shirley and I were invited as special guests of the Pacific American Lines to cruise aboard their cruiseship, the Experience. On January 9, 2012, we embarked from the port of San Diego. That afternoon, we took a walk about the ship and attended a mandatory lifeboat drill. Later we enjoyed predinner cocktails at the Ocean View Bar and dined at 5:45 p.m. Finally, we returned to our suite, retiring at 9:00 p.m. Thus began our journey, a much expected routine. It had lulled us into anticipating this was the way our cruise would continue . . . However, our disillusionment would soon become evident. If you would like, you are welcome to join us