Even though a few days ago, the Captain mentioned rain in the forecast, we were happy to see that today turned out even nicer than yesterday. Even the outside air had the feel of more humidity to it, something we have not had since we left the north island of New Zealand. The forecast for Sydney is much warmer with temperatures in the mid 80’s and the UV factor at a 10. Considering that Tauranga was a 4 (moderate danger), we can assume that 10 is quite dangerous. Actually that is what the Captain warned during his afternoon talk.
In preparation for our arrival to Australia, we had a request to pick up our passports at the Explorer’s Lounge between 11am and 1pm. However we did not see that notice until after lunch. Not a problem, we signed for them at the front desk (without the long line) after our lunch. Tomorrow we have a letter, incoming landing cards, and in-transit cards to present to the immigration inspectors onshore. We have received the letter “S”, which we know applies to a select group. Asking Barb a long time ago what S means….she said SPECIAL. Really, it applies to deck seven folks and President’s Club members, and it means that we can go off for the face-to-face inspection anytime between 7 and 10am. It will be a zero count, so each and every passenger and crew member has to be cleared. No one will be allowed back onboard until this exercise is complete. This will occur in a few of the major ports, especially the ones where segments end and begin.
Besides the usual activities, today was sort of turned around. “Fat Tuesday” or Mardi Gras will occur tomorrow, while the ship is in Sydney, and spending the night. Many folks will be out and about the town, even attending a performance at the Opera House. So, the entertainer slated for tonight’s show, Bayne Bacon, a man of music and laughter, will perform at one show at 2pm. Then, “Party Gras” will happen from 8 to 10pm with music and dancing in the Mainstage. Guess that leaves the second seating folks out of luck, unless they can eat fast. The Ocean Bar Party Band and singer will get the party going, and the buy one drink - get one for $2 will apply. More food will be served at 9pm. While we sat in our favorite chairs on deck five around 5pm, we spotted lots of guests already decked out in the gold, green, and purple colors for the festivities later.
Shiv, our most favorite housekeeping officer, stopped by for a chat with us and Barb, who also stopped by. He said that under 40 guests were leaving the day after tomorrow, with almost the same amount joining. He added that over 1100 passengers are sailing on the entire cruise this year. That has to be a record number. The good news from his point of view, is that the nasty virus has run its course, and all looks good now. All of the extra efforts with the sanitizing helped ward off large numbers of cases.
The big promotion of the day was the sale of opals with the treat of free mimosas in the Shops. Also their photo department is pushing the videos (on a USB stick) of the different areas of this particular world cruise. There will be 10 of them at the price of $19.95 each or $150 for all of them. Obviously, they are probably mailed to you after the cruise is final.
It was a surprise to see entire dining room decorated with purple, gold, and turquoise chair covers, and the tables set with matching hats, beads, and coins. The dinner menu had all sorts of Mardi Gras type appetizers and entrees. And the wait staff were decked out with sparkling vests and matching jester hats. They have to be good sports to wear these get-ups. But due to the special event in the Mainstage at 8pm, the room emptied out before 9:30pm, with the exception of a few larger tables. At the very least, the passengers would have the opportunity to eat and drink more…..like they really need it? We did not bother to go, but stayed instead to sample the first-time-ever Hokey Pokey ice cream sundae. Slam said they had a 5 gallon bucket of the special New Zealand treat, and we simply had to try it. Even Barb sampled one for a change. Except for the added chocolate discs, caramel, and whipped cream, she did like the rich vanilla-based ice cream with Manuka honey bits treat.
Bill & Mary Ann
