Bliss Cruise November 2021 archive
A Bliss Cruise is always spectacular, but this swingers cruise is going to be even more special. The cruise ship Oasis of the Seas offers space for no fewer than 5400 swingers and naturists. That will be a lot of partying. The cruise will make stops in the ports of the beautiful islands of St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Thomas and Cococay. This will be a dream trip to remember. Do not wait too long to book because this cruise will probably be fully booked soon. The number of rooms you can choose from is already shrinking.
Bliss Swingers Cruise November 2020
Unfortunately, this cruise has already sailed and you missed it.
The information on this page will remain as a reference.
Swinger Cruise Oasis November 2021 – General Information
The Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas can accommodate more than 5,400 passengers. This seven-night, clothing-optional Caribbean adventure is for couples only (sometimes a few singles are allowed too under certain circumstances if they come with a couple as trio) and sails from Miami, Florida with stops at St Kitts, St Thomas and CocoCay.
Experience a different environment, enjoy and relax during this Bliss Cruise on board the Oasis of the Seas. Every day and night there is something new to do, see and explore in one of the seven different “neighborhoods” on this ship. The themed neighborhoods include Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Entertainment Place, and Youth Zone. The latter will rather look like a ghost town as NO children are allowed on this cruise, of course.
Reserve your spot on this incredible vessel now and be part of this unique Bliss experience.
Enjoy a scenic walk through Central Park’s lush tropical gardens. The Boardwalk is inspired by the piers along the sea and you will find the high diving entertainment of the Aqua Theater for endless water fun.
Connect with your fellow cruisers on the cruise line’s signature Royal Promenade. Raise your glass for a toast at the Rising Tide Bar, which moves slowly between the Royal Promenade on deck five and Central Park on deck eight.
Looking for thrills? Enjoy the first zipline on sea nine decks high above the Boardwalk in the Pool and Sports Zone. If the zip line is nothing for you, you can relax in the sun at one of the various swimming pools and whirlpools. Or grab a board and go surfing or play a game of mini golf. You can’t miss your daily workout or do you like to relax your mind, body and soul? The Vitality at Sea Spa & Fitness Center is the place where you want to be.
As soon as the sun sets, the Entertainment Place becomes the beating heart of the ship. This neighborhood offers soulful jazz sounds, laughter at the Comedy Club and music to dance the night away at the Blaze nightclub.
Finally this Bliss Cruise adds its own naughty touch to give your cruise experience an extra dimension:
• Only adults (21 or older) can access which means children are not allowed!
• The open decks and pools are clothing optional, so you can be naked at those places.
• Clothing optional shore excursions.
• Meet & Greets to help you break the ice and meet new people.
• Seminars that provide lifestyle information and allow you to explore new areas of the lifestyle.
• Several play areas to suit your level of comfort and interest.
• Evening entertainment and late-night dance parties at various locations.
• Theme nights to add extra fun to your nightlife.
Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas Ship Facts
The Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas is a cruise ship that has been in service for many years. In November 2021 this ship will be fully chartered by Bliss Cruise and will serve as a kind of floating swingers club. Below some facts about the ship.
Year of construction: 2009
Number of decks: 16
Capacity: 5,400+
Suites: 174
Balcony Cabins: 1796
Ocean View Cabins: 176
Interior Cabins: 602
Total number of cabins: 2.748
Some Hotspots aboard this amazing Bliss Cruise
On the Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas, you will run out of time and you will not be bored for a second. Much attention has been paid to luxury and extensive facilities:
Seven Different Neighborhoods
Multiple Bars & Lounges
Multiple Restaurants
Multiple pools, one heated pool
Hot Tubs
Royal Promenade
Casino Royale
FlowRider®– surf riding wave simulator
Aqua Theater
Rock Climbing Wall
Oasis AquaTheater
Miniature Golf Course
Spa & Fitness Center
Movie Theater
Ice Rink
Itinerary
Sunday November 14, 2021
Departure from Port of Miami, Florida 4:00 PM (local time).
Monday, November 15, 2021
Cruising.
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Cruising.
Wednesday, November 17, 2021
Arrival St. Kitts & Nevis at 7:00 AM. Departure from St. Kitts & Nevis at 5:00 PM.
Thursday, November 18, 2021
Arrival St. Thomas at 7:00 AM. Departure from St. Thomas at 4 PM.
Friday, November 19, 2021
Cruising.
Saturday, November 20, 2021
Arrival Perfect Day at CocoCay at 10:00 AM. Departure from Perfect Day at CocoCay at 7 PM.
Sunday, November 21, 2021
Arrival Port of Miami, Florida at 6:15 AM.
Note: Destinations are subject to change without notice. For example, due to weather conditions or other compelling reasons. Times can also change.
Theme Nights
No swingers cruise without a different theme night, every night. Dressing up is not mandatory, but it brings extra fun. The theme nights for this cruise are now also known, so you can already go shopping for your outfits.
SUNDAY
Island Vibes – Get ready to be whisked away to the paradise of the island tropics! Show off your best island style outfit, sip a tasty tropical cocktail and enjoy the good vibes of the night.
MONDAY
All That Sparkles – Evening Chic – Dress to impress this evening. Wear something that glitters, shimmers or sparkles. This evening chic theme does not require tuxedos and ball gowns, but it’s recommended to maximize your connections.
TUESDAY
Animal Kingdom Pool Party – Calling all party animals !! Let’s get wild as you release your inner animal spirit. Will you be cute & fluffy or fierce & bold?
WEDNESDAY
Glow Night (Aquatheather Event) – Dance under the stars and light up the night with all things glowing, blinking and flashing. Neon outfits, glow sticks, glow body paint, if it glows … it goes!
THURSDAY
Mardi Trois (Promenade Event) – Beads, babes, boobs! Imagine the fun? Come celebrate and add a third to your play night too. Join us in the largest festivity ever seen at sea.
FRIDAY
Fetish Night (Vampiress Style) – What’s your fetish? Tonight’s the night to show off your kinky side and explore your freaky fantasies.
SATURDAY
Purple Passion – No need for crazy costumes on your last night. Keep it simple and dress in your favorite shade of purple while you party the night away.
The November 2021 Bliss Cruise is suitable for?
This Bliss cruise is suitable for couples aged 21 years and older. There are many swingers and couples on board who love the sexually charged atmosphere.
Singles can’t book by themselves. However, in a very limited number of cases it is possible, together with a couple, to book this cruise as a party of three. This way the couple shares one accommodation with the single person.
Booking information and assistance with booking
There are 2 ways to book your cruise:
A) By phone on 0031 73 8885962.
Monday to Friday between 10 and 22 hrs. (GMT +1)
Saturday and Sunday between 10 and 14 hrs. (GMT +1)
B) Book online using our interactive booking system
How to book online?
1. Select the number of guests sharing your cabin
2. Choose a deck on the ship
3. Select an accommodation / cabin
4. Check what you have selected
5. Create an account with your personal information
6. Confirm the booking details
7. Make your payment
You need a credit card to make a deposit and secure your room. If you do not have a credit card, you can book by phone.
Also make sure you have the passport names and date of birth of all guests you want to make a reservation for. Make sure that you fill in or transmit the names and date of birth exactly as written in the passport. If this information doesn’t match, you will have to correct it later and the costs are very high. In addition, inaccurate personal information can cause you very serious problems at departure and with the customs of the different countries you visit.
Furthermore, think carefully about the type and size of your accommodation. Do you prefer a cabin with or without a window? Cabins without a window are often located on the inner corridor of the ship. There are also rooms and suites with a balcony. Balcony rooms have an outside patio. Suites have a sleeping and dining area with additional amenities.
If you are prone to seasickness, choose a cabin on a lower level or in the center of the ship, however on a large cruise ship seasickness is less of an issue.
Having a comfortable environment is important on a weeklong cruise. Are you going to spend a lot of time in your cabin? Do you want to wake up and drink coffee on the balcony? A small cabin without a window is not a good fit for claustrophobic passengers. Make sure to determine your needs first so you can book your cabin accordingly.
Cabins and suites can offer a wide variety of amenities, from concierge services, menu upgrades and spa access to suite-class wet bars and butlers. Before choosing a cabin or suite we recommend to determine the benefits that will make your vacation complete.
Click here to book this cruise
If you need support call 0031 73 8885962 for more information or to make a reservation by phone.
We are available by phone from Monday to Friday between 10:00 and 22:00 hrs. (GMT +1)
On Saturday and Sunday between 10:00 and 14:00 hrs. (GMT +1)
Cabin Types and Rates
The cabin price includes all meals and drinks such as water, coffee and tea. You also get access to all seminars, events, parties and entertainment.
Please note there is an additional fee to the price of the cabin or suite that covers doc fees, government taxes, handling and security fees and more. This fee will be as follows:
$ 425 per person if you have a stateroom
$ 525 per person if you have a suite
$ 475 per person for any third or fourth person in a suitable cabin
The following things are available at additional costs:
Alcohol and other beverages (basic drinks as coffee, tea and water are included in the cabin price)
The specialty restaurants
Playing at the casino
Spa services
Shore excursions
Shop purchases
The Oasis of the Seas features a variety of breathtaking cabins. There are four main cabin categories: Suites, Balcony, Ocean View and Interior with no fewer than 24 different room types. Keep in mind that even the most desirable suites and cabins are not necessarily private. Many of the Crown Loft Suites directly overlook one of the busiest outdoor spots onboard (the basketball court and FlowRider areas) so passengers there can see onto the Crown Loft balconies. Rock climbers pass right by the balconies of the AquaTheater suites. People in Central Park and Boardwalk cabins can see into the rooms across the way. Each stateroom offers a television, small sitting area, private bath with shower, vanity and even a hair-dryer. The larger cabins come with more perks and make a great place for private entertainment.
The Interior Staterooms
These spacious cabins have extensive facilities and all the comforts for a pleasant stay. You can spend your day lounging by the pool or get active on the sports deck and then take some time for yourself in the comfort of your cabin.
1
Interior Stateroom
Your cabin features two twin beds that can convert to a Royal King bed, a private bathroom and a cozy sitting area with television.
Surface area stateroom: 13 m²; Wheelchair accessible: 24 m²
• Category 1V – Decks: 3, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
• Category 2V – Decks: 3, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
• Category 3V – Decks: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
• Category 4V – Decks: 10, 11, 12, 14
• Category 6V – Decks: 6, 7, 8, 9
Price in dollars: $ 1.275, price in euros: € 1.227,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
2
Promenade View Interior Stateroom
Your cabin features two twin beds that can convert to a Royal King bed, a private bathroom and a cozy sitting area with television.
Surface area stateroom surface: 18 m²
• Category 1T – Deck: 7
Price in dollars: $ 1.425, price in euros: € 1.372,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
3
Central Park View Interior Stateroom
Your cabin features two twin beds that can convert to a Royal King bed, a private bathroom and a cozy sitting area with television. The windows overlook the tranquil Central Park gardens.
Surface area stateroom: 18 m²
• Category 1S – Decks: 7, 9
Price in dollars: $ 1.425, price in euros: € 1.372,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
4
Spacious Interior Stateroom
Your cabin features two twin beds that can convert to a Royal King bed, a private bathroom and a cozy sitting area with sofa bed and television.
Surface area stateroom: 24 m²
• Category 1R – Deck: 11
Price in dollars: $ 1.800, price in euros: € 1.732,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
Category 2: The Ocean View Staterooms
In a cabin with ocean view you won’t miss a moment of the breathtaking scenery during your cruise. Explore and make the most of the luxury amenities on-board, then relax and enjoy the fantastic views from the comfort of your cabin.
5
Oceanview Stateroom
Your cabin features two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed, a private bathroom and a cozy sitting area with television. Note: some cabins have a porthole instead of a window.
Surface area stateroom: 17 m²; Wheelchair accessible: 24 m²
• Category 1N – Deck: 3
• Category 2N – Deck: 3
• Category 6N – Decks: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Price in dollars: $ 1.400, price in euros: € 1.347,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
6
Ultra Spacious Oceanview Stateroom
Your cabin features two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed, a private bathroom and a cozy sitting area with sofa bed and television.
Surface area stateroom: 25 m²
• Category 1K – Deck: 11
Price in dollars: $ 1.925, price in euros: € 1.853,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
Category 3: The Balcony Staterooms
The Balcony Staterooms are private sanctuaries where you can enjoy the cosiness of your own cabin both inside and out. With a magnificent view from your balcony, you can enjoy your coffee in the morning or admire the breathtaking sunsets in the evening.
7
Central Park View Balcony
Your cabin features two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed, a private bathroom and a cozy sitting area with television. This cabin has a balcony overlooking Central Park. Nestled in the gardens of Central Park the Park View Balcony accommodations connect you with the nature, with the tranquility and with each other.
Surface area stateroom: 17 m² Balcony: 5 m²; Wheelchair accessible: 25 m², Balcony: 8 m²
• Category 1J – Decks: 10, 11, 12, 14
• Category 2J – Decks: 10, 11, 12, 14
Price in dollars: $ 1.775, price in euros: € 1.708,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
8
Boardwalk View Balcony
Your cabin features two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed, a private bathroom and a cozy sitting area with television. This cabin has a balcony overlooking the boardwalk. From your balcony you can look out over the colorful and vibrant Boardwalk area. Nothing gets you closer to the action than a balcony overlooking the boardwalk.
Surface area stateroom: 17 m² Balcony: 5 m².
• Category 1I – Decks: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
• Category 2I – Decks: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
• Category 4I – Decks: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
Price in dollars: $ 1.825, price in euros: € 1.756,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
9
Oceanview Stateroom with balcony
Your cabin features two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed, a private bathroom and a cozy sitting area with television. This cabin has a private balcony where you can enjoy time with your partner or with new friends.
Surface area stateroom: 17 m². Balcony: 4.5 m².; Wheelchair accessible: 25 m² Balcony: 7 m²
• Category 1D – Decks: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
• Category 2D – Decks: 10, 11, 12, 14
• Category 3D – Deck: 9
• Category 4D – Decks: 6, 7, 8, 9
• Category 5D – Decks: 10, 11, 12, 14
• Category 6D – Decks: 10, 11, 12, 14
• Category 7D – Decks: 6, 7, 8, 9
• Category 8D – Decks: 6, 7, 8, 9
Price in dollars: $ 1.875 and $ 1.995, price in euros: € 1.805,= * en € 1.920,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
10
Oceanview Stateroom with large balcony
Your cabin features two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed, a private bathroom and a cozy sitting area with television. This cabin has a large balcony where you can enjoy time with your partner or with new friends.
Surface area stateroom: 17 m² Balcony: 7 m².
• Category 1C – Decks: 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
• Category 2C – Decks: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
Price in dollars: $ 2.225, price in euros: € 2.141,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
11
Ultra Spacious Oceanview Stateroom with large balcony
Your cabin features two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed, a private bathroom and a cozy sitting area with sofa bed and television. This cabin has a large balcony where you can enjoy time with your partner or with new friends.
Surface area stateroom: 25 m² Balcony: 8 m²; Wheelchair accessible: 36 m² Balcony: 10 m²
• Category 1A – Decks: 7, 11
Price in dollars: $ 2.750, price in euros: € 2.647,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
Category 4: The Suites
The suites on the Oasis of the Seas are an experience in itself with a multitude of amenities, including a dedicated restaurant. The suites are characterized by spaciousness, comfort and luxury. Most of them have a balcony. Some suites even include complimentary concierge service, access to a private lounge, access to a private sun terrace with lounge chairs and personalized service to assist you with bookings or other arrangements. The suites at the Oasis of the Seas are a great way to travel in style and make unforgettable memories.
12
Junior Suite – One bedroom
Your suite features two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed, a complete bathroom with bath, a cozy sitting area with television and a large balcony. Please note that the Junior Suites do not have access to the Suite Lounge and the Coastal Kitchen restaurant.
Surface area: 26 m² Balcony: 7 m²; Wheelchair accessible: 36 m² Balcony: 10 m²
• Category J3 (ADA) – Decks: 6, 7, 8, 14
• Category J4 – Decks: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
Price in dollars: $ 3.675 and $ 3.975, price in euros: € 3.537,= * and € 3.826,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
13
Grand Suite – One bedroom
Your suite features two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed, a complete bathroom with bath and two sinks, a living room with sofa bed and a large balcony with sitting area.
Surface area: 34 m² Balcony: 10 m².
• Category GS – Decks: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
Price in dollars: $ 5.575, price in euros: € 5.366,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
14
Owner’s Suite – One bedroom
Your suite features two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed, a full bathroom with bath and two sinks, large closets, a living room with sofa bed and a large balcony with sitting area.
Surface area: 51 m² Balcony: 22 m².
• Category OS – Decks: 10, 11, 14
Price in dollars: $ 7650, price in euros: € 7.363,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
15
Crown Loft Suite – One bedroom
Your suite occupies two levels. The master bedroom with a Royal King bed and the bathroom are on the second floor. An additional shower room is located on the first floor. This suite also includes a living room with a sofa bed, a dining area with bar and a large balcony.
• Suite area: 50 m² Balcony: 11 m²; Wheelchair accessible: 68 m² Balcony: 13 m²
• Category L1 – Decks: 17, 18
• Category L2 – Decks: 17, 18
Price in dollars: $ 7650, price in euros: € 7.363,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
16
Grand Suite – Two bedrooms
Your suite features two bedrooms. Each bedroom includes two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed and a vanity with chair. The living room features a sofa bed and an entertainment center. There are also two bathrooms, including a master bathroom with a bathtub. Your private balcony is furnished with table and chairs. Note: the Grand Suites on deck 12 have a Jacuzzi on the balcony.
Surface area: 54 m² Balcony: 22 m².
• Category GT – Decks: 9, 10, 12
Price in dollars: $ 8050, price in euros: € 7.748,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
17
AquaTheater Suite – One bedroom
Your suite features two twin beds that can convert to a Royal King bed, a bathroom with tub, large closets and a sitting area with sofa bed and dining table with chairs. You also have access to a private balcony with a sitting area.
Surface area: 30 m² Balcony: 13 m²
• Category A4 – Deck: 14
Price in dollars: $ 8350, price in euros: € 8.037,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
18
Spacious AquaTheater Suite – One bedroom
Your suite features two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed, a bathroom with tub, large closets and a sitting area with sofa bed and dining table with chairs. You also have access to a large balcony with sitting area.
Surface area: 30 m² Balcony: 33 m²
• Category A3 – Decks: 11, 12
Price in dollars: $ 8350, price in euros: € 8.037,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
19
AquaTheater Suite with large balcony – Two bedrooms
Your suite features two bedrooms. The master bedroom has a King Size bed with Duxiana mattress. The second bedroom has two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed. Both bedrooms include vanity with chair. The living room includes a sofa bed, an entertainment center and an extensive dining area. There are two bathrooms, including a master bathroom with a tub. You also have a large balcony with table and chairs at your disposal.
Surface area: 62 m² Balcony: 56 m².
• Category A2 – Decks: 9, 10
Price in dollars: $ 10.050, price in euros: € 9.673,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
20
Spacious AquaTheater Suite with large balcony – Two bedrooms
Your suite features two bedrooms. The master bedroom features a King Size bed with Duxiana mattress. The second bedroom features two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed. Both bedrooms include a vanity with chair. The living room includes a sofa bed, an entertainment center and an extensive dining area. There are two bathrooms, including a master bathroom with a tub. You also have a very large balcony with table and chairs at your disposal.
Surface area: 76 m² Balcony: 72 m².
• Category A1 – Decks: 8
Price in dollars: $ 11.450, price in euros: € 11.020,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
21
Star Loft Suite – One bedroom
Two-decks-high stateroom with panoramic views. Master bedroom and bathroom on second level. Bedroom has a King size bed with Duxiana Mattress. Stairway to second level. Bathrooms with shower for two. Private balcony with dining area. Dining area with dry bar. Living room sofa converts to double bed. Closets on each level.
Surface area: 67 m² ft. Balcony: 38 m²
• Category TL – Decks: 17, 18
Price in dollars: $ 12.950, price in euros: € 12.464,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
22
Grand Panoramic Suite – One bedroom
This luxurious suite reveals already a spectacular view from the grand entrance. The ground-floor suite with doorbell features a dining room with dry bar and entertainment center, a living room including a sofa bed and a guest bathroom with shower. The bedroom includes a King size bed with Duxiana mattress, a sitting area and a large bathroom with tub, shower, two sinks and bidet. You also have a private balcony with Jacuzzi at your disposal.
Surface area: 85 m² ft. Balcony: 15 m²
• Category GP – Deck: 17
Price in dollars: $ 13.950, price in euros: € 13.426,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
23
Owner’s Panoramic Suite – One bedroom
This luxurious suite reveals already a spectacular view from the grand entrance. The ground-floor suite with doorbell features a dining room with dry bar and entertainment center, a living room including a sofa bed and a guest bathroom with shower. The bedroom has a King size bed, a sitting area and a large bathroom with tub, shower, two sinks and bidet. You also have a private balcony with Jacuzzi at your disposal.
Surface area: 100 m² Balcony: 15 m².
• Category OP – Deck: 17
• Price in dollars: $ 14.950, price in euros: € 14.389,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
24
Royal Loft Suite – Two bedrooms
Two-decks-high stateroom with panoramic views. On second level, master bedroom has a King size bed, bathroom with tub, shower, two sinks and bidet and a closet. On main level, second bedroom with closet and two twin beds that convert to a Queen; dining area with dry bar, living room with sofa that converts to double bed; bathroom with shower. Private balcony with whirlpool and dining area.
Surface area: 142 m² Balcony (first level): 78 m².
• Category RL – Decks: 17, 18
• Price in dollars: $ 17.700, price in euros: € 17.036,= * per person plus additional fee (see note at the bottom of the page).
Specification additional fee
The cabin price is the cabin rate per person. In addition to the cabin rate there is an additional fee that covers doc fees, government taxes, handling and security fees. This fee will be as follows:
For all suites the additional fee in dollars is $ 525, additional fee in euros: € 505,= * per person.
For all staterooms the additional fee in dollars is $ 425, additional fee in euros: € 409,= * per person.
For any additional third or fourth person in a suitable cabin the additional fee in dollars is $ 475, the additional fee in euros: € 457,= * per person.
Dollar and euro price
* Prices are expressed in dollars and euros. The euro price is recalculated every day at the hand of the euro / dollar exchange rate, as used by the European Central Bank (the ECB).
Bliss Swingers Cruise November 2020
Unfortunately, this cruise has already sailed and you missed it.
The information on this page will remain as a reference.
