Last night, we had been hand-delivered an invitation for the Grand opening of the new ArtLink Galleries. Apparently, it is the replacement for the previous art vendors, Park West. During the entire world cruise, we do not remember that there were any art auctions. So when we boarded for this re-positioning cruise, we did realize that Park West was nowhere to be seen. So today at 5pm, there was a ribbon cutting ceremony with sparkling wine and the officers. What we did not realize, was that we had been invited to be the “ribbon-cutters” as we were the only President’s Club members onboard the ship. Not really comfortable with that job, we gave our thanks for the honor, but decided to pass it over to someone else. We let them know before 8am today, so they would have time to choose someone else for the honors.
After a light breakfast, we went outside for a walk. It was invigorating to say the least. No way was it 61 degrees with the way the wind was blowing. Even the deck crew had on their woolen hats as they sanded, painted, and cleaned up the lower promenade deck. You always get the feeling that things are being prepared for the next group of passengers. But the longer we have traveled on ships, we realize that this work is ongoing all of the time.
Today was the Mariner Society Ceremony in the Mainstage, deck four. A limited number of passengers were present, which we assume were the higher numbered day guests. We had been invited 15 minutes ahead of the 10:30am opening time, so we could be seated first. Not a problem, since we were the only ones in our category. A nice table for two had been set with flowers in the very front, dead center. Captain Eversen and hotel director, Norbert, were the medal award hosts. A small amount of people would get the bronze and silver medallions. One gentleman got some oohs and aahs when they announced he was a platinum medal holder. Last, but not least, we were called to the front to have our photo taken with the officers. When cruise director Jai said we had over 2000 days, we did get a big applause, as well as some pretty big stares. And that’s why we seldom admit to being President’s Club members unless we are asked.
We and the new awardees were escorted to the lower dining room for brunch. None of the tables were hosted, so we got to sit at our everyday breakfast and lunch table for two. Two flutes of sparkling wine were waiting for us, although Manny, our favorite wine steward, offered us our choice of cocktails. Nice, but we declined. The menu was a choice of a fish appetizer or cheddar cheese chowder. Mains were beef pot roast, plaice fish, or asparagus red rice cakes. We chose the beef. A berry meringue tart was the dessert, accompanied with petit fours, coffee, and tea.
There was still photo work to be finished from yesterday, as well as the report, so that’s how we spent some of the afternoon. Also watched a good movie about four retired guys that robbed a bank called Going in Style. Not a new movie, we have only seen bits and pieces of it That’s what nice with the new interactive TV’s on the other newer HAL ships. How nice is it to watch newer flics at any time you wish, and even pause them to continue later. They have our vote.
We are guessing that most folks are beginning to pack. We are. With only two suitcases to fill, it should be easy. We also heard that up to 70 or 80 people will be leaving the cruise in Victoria tomorrow. Makes sense if they live on Vancouver Island. Another thing we spotted were some new passengers that must have boarded in San Francisco, replacing the ones that left there. They’ll be on a three day cruise.
Tonight was the final gala evening, although you would not know it at one nearby table, where two young fellows, college-age, wore t-shirts. At least they left the baseball caps back in their cabin. Yes, we were surprised that nothing was said to them. Oh well, such is life. We enjoyed our meal, and just before we were about to leave, there was a mini parade of chefs through the dining room. That’s as good as it gets to replacing the festive Baked Alaska parade we used to have in the old days. Hard to continue that since the open-seating concept took over a few years ago.
Jesse Kazemek played a mean guitar with a tribute to the Beatles tonight in the Mainstage. Nice to see some new musicians entertaining the folks.
We should arrive to the city of Victoria tomorrow by 1pm. Another nice place to visit.
Bill & Mary Ann
The Mariner Society Brunch Menu
Tiles are still given at these affairs
