Today was a mixed bag with the weather. Our windows were covered with water, so we realized that it would be a rainy day. In fact, the rain began in the evening, and continued all night. It was not going to be a pool day for us.
The good news was that the fresh berries were back onboard for breakfast. Gan served us a glass dish filled with raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, and a few blueberries. We wonder how long the new supply will last. Hopefully more than a couple of days. The Greek yogurt has not appeared yet, but we have high hopes it might be tomorrow. In the meantime, we are getting used to the soupy brand.
Our two weeks had arrived for the President’s Club amenities. This time we asked for flowers, but instead of the soda, we requested a beverage card. It should be worth $40, but since they do not make the card in that amount, we got a $50 one instead. A much better deal for us. The only difference is that we can purchase our vitamin water or Coke Zero at the Explorations Café. Or if we want special coffees, we can buy those as well. If we went to the lounges, we could use the card for cocktails as well.
The seas have turned choppy as we sail up the east coast of Australia. According to the Captain, we are sailing fairly closely to the land, although we cannot see it. What we are seeing are cargo ships coming and going. At least we do not feel all alone. And during the day, we also spotted some dolphins jumping in the distance. Every now and then, we saw some seabirds. They were too small to be the albatross.
During his PM talk, Captain Mercer said that a storm of some significance is headed our way. We could expect to see more of the rain, which could be heavy at times. Hopefully it will be over before we get to the next port of Townsville. We do not remember this type of weather in this part of the world, but then, we are three weeks later than we normally are. We figure if you don’t have some bad weather, then you’ll never appreciate the better temperatures.
Two new guests speakers have joined us. The first is George Friend, who dealt with World War II in the South Pacific. The afternoon lecturer was Dr. Dennis Whitford, who specializes in coral reefs today. Important for those onboard that will be going to the Great Barrier Reef soon.
Another movie screening, #2 of 5 was shown in the show lounge. It was The Favourite, with the female Academy Award winner. While that was being shown, many folks were learning to dance the waltz in dance class. They will be practicing what they learned in the Ocean Bar later.
Today was a 4 meal day for us. Starting with our light breakfast, we ended up meeting Barb in the dining room for a light lunch. Soup, salad, and appetizers. She was happy to report another “win” at trivia. One of her teammates knew the answer to a question about Sesame Street, and she doesn’t even have kids. They have a diverse group that absorb info like sponges. Since we will be missing dinner tonight, it was a good time to chat. Half of our fun is joking with our waiters Gan and Feri. Nice guys. Then around 4pm, we split a small sandwich in the Lido. Otherwise, it would be too long a stretch for the 8pm dinner.
The Pinnacle Grill featured another Sel de Mer night, and we had reservations at 8pm. Expecting a crowd, we found it half full. It seems like every time we go there, we run into the Captain, Karen, and Hazel enjoying the mostly seafood meal. Except for an ahi tuna salad, we ordered the pepper-crusted steak, which was cooked perfectly. It comes with frizzled onions on the top, skinny French fries, and a salty cream-like gravy. Starters were crispy French bread, salted herb butter, and a tray of assorted dips. The menu is basically French Mediterranean, but you can make it what you like. We saved a little bit of room for dessert, which was one profiterole tower and one apple tatin with caramel-drizzled ice cream.
When we got back to our room, there was a plate of sweet/salted chocolates waiting for us. But they will be a treat for tomorrow. And better news, the clocks went back an hour this evening. Always welcomed by all.
Bill & Mary Ann
