Since we will have two full days in Honolulu, Kainoa gave a talk about what to do and see there. He was born in Oahu, so he knows it well. We feel we know it well too, since we have taken every tour that is currently offered on the island.
The guest speaker dealt with the moon and the recent missions by NASA. We believe these talks have been repeated on the TV on this trip. That was one gripe many of us had on the world cruise……the fact that the guest's lectures were never shown later in the day on TV. It is difficult to attend everything all of the time, so having this option works well for us.
While the last of the hula and ukulele lessons continued, we spent the time at the aft pool. The "regulars" have established their spots on the deck, including us. We have taken note that the new deck kids are keeping the lounges straight and clean of towels that are left behind for a long time. The crew has been extra busy with the soot deposited over the outside decks due to the exhaust gas cleaning systems. The requirement is for the stacks to be blown out 200 nautical miles from Hawaii. There has been a warning printed in the daily newsletter before this is done, so guests know when not to go to these outside decks. That nasty soot can stain clothes.
The Shops onboard had a Hawaii deck sale at the Lido pool this morning. You could save up to 70% on some items, especially those things that were left over from the Alaska season. On past trips, we have purchased nice jackets at a huge discount. Also, depending on your Mariner status, you can also get the extra percentage off of the sale price. Not a bad deal.
About a week ago, we noticed a few folks smoking on the lower promenade deck. A few years ago, that was OK, as there were metal ashtrays hanging on the railings. Then, the ashtrays disappeared, but there were no signs printed anywhere to say smoking was not allowed. So, we guess you can give the benefit of the doubt that the guests did not know they should not smoke here. Funny thing, there are cameras all over the lower promenade deck, so we are certain they were spotted. The danger of fire on a ship is a serious thing. Anyway, we were pleased to see that "no smoking" signage was painted on the railings at every door exit, as well as over the trash bins forward and aft. Now if only the lone jogger will read the "no jogging" signs, all will be well.
We went out for another nice sunset after 6pm. Only two other people came out to look at it. Other than the Crows Nest on deck nine, the only place to see the full scope of the sunset is on deck six forward.
There were only four of us at dinner this evening. Perhaps the liver and onions scared some of them away. Actually it was nice to visit with Bill and Sylvia, who are from England. When seven of us are there, they don't get a chance to talk too much. Comparing where we live, we found they are in an agricultural area like us. So there was a lot of discussion involving animals and landscaping…..right up our alley.
As for entrees, we had the beef stew in the little black pot. It was steaming hot too. We were not going to order dessert, but who can turn down pineapple upside down cake?
Bill & Mary Ann
Another great sunset to see…………….
There are 2 birds in this photo
