At 5.28 p.m. on Friday 17 May 2002, Superfast IX sailed out of Rosyth gently piloted out into the Forth, escorted by a fire-tug spraying three huge fountains of water behind the vessel, just like pictures of the "Cunard Queens' " arrivals in New York. As the sound of the bagpipes receded into the distance as we proceeded under the Forth Bridges. Not even a very cold overcast evening could spoil the enthusiasm of Scotland's brand new sailors or those waiving from the hilltops, shore and every part of the awesome structures. We were off on a truly historic and memorable voyage, bound for the Belgian port of Zeebrugge, finally to establish a marine highway link to Europe.

The fascination continued as the ship gradually powered up to full speed. Many passengers onboard never having seen the coastline of the Forth Estuary or the islands scattered over its whole length, except maybe from the air. An hour sped by quickly and it seemed no time at all before we were rounding the Bass Rock, with Berwick Law in the background and the distant Isle of May on our left.

Both Superfast vessels are newly built and had that smell of newness, they are beautifully fitted out, more like cruise liner than a ferry. The lounge décor is bright with rich red check upholstery to reflect the colour of the vessel and this theme is carried on throughout. The berth was easily located; the staff being well trained, pleasant and very attentive at all times to lend a hand and for our trip we were allocated a very comfortable inside cabin with en-suite shower-room.

From the very start and unexpectedly, everybody on the trip was friendly and familiar and it felt as though we were all travelling as an extended family. I recognised a farmer from Culross and even the semi-retired butcher from Main Street, Thornton or the Haulage Contractor from Aberdeen seemed familiar; keen to talk and give their reason for being on the cruise.

A choice of either Buffet or A la Carte Restaurant was provided for Dinner. The quality of the cuisine in each was exquisite to say the least. With plenty of variety, it was a gastronomic dream. For those worried about the possibility of being seasick: on both trips, the vessel sat firm in the water and its sailing characteristic meant that all meals and entertainment could be enjoyed thoroughly.

On both journeys after dinner, a very professional group of three musicians provided the entertainment, each with a female singer. The first group was from Greece, but of course, the Ferry Company being a Greek Organisation.

With the sailing times of departure at 5pm and arrival the next morning at 11.30am European time, then there is plenty of time to put all your cares and concerns behind you before your disembark for a 20 minute bus journey into Brugge, in Belgium. Just outside the port runs the coastal tram line between Ostend in the south and Knock-Heist (of "It's a Knock-out Fame") to the north. On the other hand, there are many other towns or Cities within easy reach; Gent or Antwerp is only 50 minutes away; Brussels 1 hour all by fast electric train and it only takes 30 minutes by car to reach Zeeland, South Netherlands by way of the Breskens Ferry. For those interested in history, the Battlefields of WW1 are within easy reach, as is Northern France.

I was very fortunate, my friends Peter and Tiny from the Netherlands met me straight from the Ferry and missing out the VIP reception we went straight to Brugge, the ancient old walled city with its windmills and canals. For centuries one of the wealthiest City States of Europe, prospering from cloth making and trading, especially woollen, now still renowned for its lace making. I am reliably informed that it has many fine breweries as well. Towards the main square can be found a shop, which deals in all aspects of the famous Belgian cartoon "Herge's Adventures of Tintin ". My journey took me by way of Domme, to get some exquisite Belgian chocolates and Sluis, the old port for Brugge, which was all but flattened during WW2. I stay with my good friends at their home in the Ancient Scots Staple of Veere, Walcheren but the visit was all too fleeting.

Too soon it was back to Zeebrugge, back this time on the sister ship and though a bit quieter never the less still the newness and luxury, the same care and attention from the crew and still the friendship, that feeling of travelling with an extended family. Long may it continue!

The next morning after an unhurried breakfast, I was out on deck to observe the features of our coastline; the Abbey on Inchcolm and to be welcomed back by the outstretched arms of the Forth Railway Bridge. Those truly stunning and powerful and yet inviting spans that are Scotland's monumental gateway. To quote the Belgian Shop Assistant, who was taken completely by surprise on her first visit to Scotland -
"Amazing to see, glowing red in the morning sunshine, arms wide, so welcoming"!