Shore excursions are always available, although we seldom book them anymore. They're great for those who have never been to these upcoming ports before, a way to get the lay of the land. This very subject came up at the second Cruise Critic meeting this morning in the Crows Nest. Due to the fact that the meetings are not attended by any staff members, the members are free to discuss independent arrangements they made prior to the trip. Like we have said before, we don't blame the passengers for going on their own, since many of the excursions on the ship have gotten so pricey. So after the initial introduction by the two leaders, the group broke off to discuss their plans. We did meet some very nice folks that have followed many of our cruises over the years. Always nice to hear that people are still reading our adventures. The meeting ended for most before 11am.
Following that, was a cocktail party hosted by Tom M, our escort for this trip. It was held once again in the Piano Bar/Rembrandt Lounge on deck five. There were about 25 of us, and we did recognize some people from previous cruises. In fact, two familiar couples asked us to join them. The bar staff was serving wine, juice, mimosas, or bloody Marys. We asked for one JD on the rocks and a rum and Coke. Trays full of fancy treats were passed among all of us. We held out because we planned to go to the dining room for lunch today.
Yesterday, we requested a table for both breakfast and lunch, and they gladly said OK. We ordered the vegetarian taquitos and sweet and sour pork. Both were very tasty. The desserts looked tempting, but we decided to pass on them.
Taking a walk outside, we found the seas to be a bit rough, and the winds were blowing quite strongly. We really did not bring any heavy jackets, so we did not last too long out there. We happened to have a chance to say hi to Captain Fred, while he was in Henk's office. He promised us smooth seas and warmer temps in a few days.
While we were doing other things, a guest speaker, Greg Redfern, spoke about the future of manned spaceflight. Good way to learn where NASA is headed in the future.
At 2pm, hula lessons were given by the Hawaiian Ambassadors onboard. Earlier in the day, an orchid lei class was held Lido poolside. Guess we will see some ladies wearing the leis around the ship.
Other activities happened on this trip, include watercolors, tai chi, bridge instruction, and arts and crafts. We did read somewhere that many of these fun happenings will be discontinued on shorter cruises. So far we have noticed there are no dance instructors or dance hosts. Things are definitely changing…………
In the afternoon, we did try for some deck time at the back pool, but did not last long. Clouds were developing, blocking what sun there was. The chill was in the wind, making us head for some hot chocolate in the Lido. It may be a few more days before it warms up. Then we will all be complaining about the heat.
There was an unusual notice in today's newsletter stating the delivery truck with the beverage provisions failed to make it to the ship on time yesterday. The passengers can expect a shortage of their favorite drinks, especially wine, heaven forbid. They did promise that these supplies will be forwarded to Honolulu, at a great expense to the company. Oh well, stuff happens…….
Dinnertime found seven of us at the table. Our original couple came back, so now we have three couples and one single lady. Our meals were creative tonight. One of us had the pork ribs, while the other ordered a plate of almond-crusted chicken tenders with a baked potato…..all very good. So far, we have not been disappointed with the food on this cruise.
The entertainer tonight was David Crowe, described as a kid of nerdy charisma and physicality that is absolutely captivating. Now that really tells us nothing, does it? Annie and Bill reminded us that he was on stage at the beginning of the cruise in Vancouver, and they remembered him to be a comedian.
Bill & Mary Ann
Somewhat of a sunset tonight
The clouds blocked most of the rays
Going down
Gone quickly
They're sure to get better
Gone
