Subject: Report #119 Sailing Towards Ft. Lauderdale, Florida April 28, 2016 Thursday Partly cloudy & 75 degrees
The Amsterdam has resumed its original course that was charted for us. By sailing south of the direct line towards Florida, Captain Mercer was able to avoid the worst of the storm that was brewing there. We did have deep swells, making conditions uncomfortable at times, but it only lasted a few days. A little bit of rain did not hurt us along the way, as it could have been much worse. Fifty-five foot seas near Dutch Harbor while on the Volendam's Asia/Pacific Voyage back in 2002 was the upmost worst we have ever experienced. Anything less than that, is a piece of cake now.
This morning we woke up to grey skies, but the seas were much smoother, and eventually, the sun did come out. One thing we have noticed is that we are seeing many more flying fish. Bet the sea water has warmed up considerably. Sure starting to feel like the Caribbean……warm and more humid. In fact, during his PM talk, Captain Mercer mentioned that we are now close to the Turks and Caico Islands. Speaking of the Captain, it is his 65th birthday today. (He shares it with my brother as well. Happy Birthday, Richard.) Jonathon mentioned that he hopes to be the master of the ship for the next two world cruises. Then he might consider retiring.
Today was the final day to arrange the luggage shipment service for the guests, and also some of the crew members. For those who need to know, the front office sells bubble wrap, boxes, tape, and a box package with a little of everything. Many folks purchased so much in the way of souvenirs, they needed a way to ship it all home. Some smart people bought extra luggage along the way, such as in Hong Kong or Viet Nam. We did get fewer ship gifts this year, so we will not be overloaded.
There was a reminder for all of the library books to be turned in today. Or else you could be charged for them. The loaned Ship Flicks also needed to be brought back to the front desk. Most of those complimentary movies are old, so we never did borrow any of them this entire trip. Even better would be the interactive TV that has 200 movies at your request. Bet the new Koningsdam has it.
The guest speakers gave their talks today, following up with their subjects of art and the history of computers. The Grand Finale Art Auction took place in the Explorers Lounge. We are not sure what the size of the crowd that is interested in this activity, but there has to be some people buying the art.
We had a lunch date in the Pinnacle Grill, the first one of this trip. We met Leslie and Handler at 12:30pm, and lingered over mostly hamburgers and skinny fries. Dessert was a warm brownie with caramel popcorn on top with a tiny scoop of coffee ice cream. Great combination, who would have guessed sweet chocolate with salty caramel? We were the last to leave around 2:30pm.
After the ample lunch, we needed a walk outside. Still uncrowded, it was perfect weather ………warm, but with a slight breeze. Looks like the rain was still on the horizon, but we actually had sun by now.
There was a Champagne Farewell Reception and Presentation in the Queens Lounge at 4:30pm. Even though it was intended for the early diners, we went to see it, going up to deck five. We were not alone, as many of the late diners were there. The Amsterdam Orchestra played for 15 minutes, then Gene introduced Captain Mercer, who gave a short and sweet farewell talk.
Following him was Barbara H, who gave a brief recap of all of the ports we visited on this cruise. The photos sure brought back memories, especially the Cook Islands, where the tender boat got hung up on the reef. Finally, Gene showed a very humorous video of the staff, crew, and officers as they went about their daily jobs. The funniest were Henk and Christel riding their bike for two past the front desk, and down the hallways, waving as they passed by. Or Presty fixing his sleek hair in the dining room. Whoever filmed this video had a wicked sense of humor. The crowd loved it. This show will be repeated again at 7pm.
The Grand Dollar redemption took place this afternoon. For the first time we remember, Gene announced that the dollars could be saved for next year's world cruise. Usually, that does not happen, and people were forced to get stuff they did not really want. Use them, or lose them. We never earned any, so we did not have to worry about prizes or the lack of.
There was a Royal Dutch High Tea at 3pm in the dining room. One of these days, we intend to go to one of these teas.
Dinner was good tonight, since there were several excellent choices on the menu. It was the Chef's Farewell Dinner. Sometimes it is all or nothing. We ordered the spaghetti Bolognese with a filet mignon on the side. The fish and chips entrée was tasty. Weinerschintzel was also a good choice or the lobster pie. For one of us, jello with fruit was the just right dessert, although the carrot cake looked awfully good.
Showtime was Terry Davies, a piano man. The stars of Abba Fab also returned to the stage with music from Billy Joel and Elton John.
One more day at sea, and we will be in Florida.
Bill & Mary Ann
