If we did not know better, we would not expect that we are still sailing along the coast of Baja California, which is Mexico, of course. Yesterday’s temps were warm and sunny, but today, we went from mostly sunny, to partly cloudy, then entirely cloudy and very cool. No rain, but it sure looks like it could.
Taking our morning walk, we still counted about 20 quite large flying fish as the ship cut through the oncoming waves. At least we think that means that the water temps are still on the warmer side. We highly doubt that will last much longer as we head towards California.
Morning activities included another session with the Captain giving a virtual bridge and engine room tour of the Amsterdam. Actually the last one we saw was given by Captain Mercer. And at both lectures, the Captain was open to all questions that he was able to answer. It is a good substitute for the real tour we went on back in 2009 on the Rotterdam. What was missing were the steep stairways to the bottom decks, the tight spaces, the incredible heat, and the never-ending noise.
And with the next port of San Francisco coming up, a talk was given about what to see and do there. While that was happening, a $39 premium wine tasting was taking place in the Pinnacle Grill. Later in the day, another $5 sip and savor group was testing the cornflake crusted shrimp with mayo and mango. This new activity must be a hit, because they are using the Explorer’s Lounge instead of the Crystal Terrace.
We have to laugh with the eat more to weigh less, followed by yoga, cycling, pilates (these three for $12), then dine at the special Seafood Lunch in the dining room at noon. We did the lunch thing, but ordered a plain salad, a bowl of soup, and one shrimp and one veggie ravioli main. A slice of pumpkin pie was shared by the both of us. And we had quite a surprise to recognize two people that were tablemates on a South Pacific cruise a few years ago. A few of days ago, we spotted this couple for a nano second outside the elevator. The doors closed, and we both said at the same time, was that the nice couple we used to know? Highly unlikely, we figured it was not. Anyway, they did remember us, and also said they will be back on the Tales of the South Pacific in the fall. What a coincidence to do a repeat cruise like that. We promised to keep in touch until then.
Another unusual activity was an Introduction to Self-Hypnosis with mentalist Alan Chamo. If it wasn’t for a really good TV movie at the same time, we might have peeked into the Wajang just to see what that was about. It promised to help with losing weight, eliminating fears, relaxing, and getting rid of bad habits. Afraid the movie won out……The Upside, a semi-comedy, but a really good story.
Now that we are down to less than a week left, we packed away things we do not need. With two ports in Canada before we arrive to Seattle, we don’t want to be stuck doing a lot of last minute chores.
And our time to sit in our favorite spot across from the Ocean Bar at 4:30pm is also limited to a few more days. One good reason for relaxing here is two-fold. We like to listen to the live band, but also talk to many of the officers and staff members we have come to know. But we get the biggest kick out of seeing the cutest housekeeping gal, who will stop what she is doing, and wave to us every time she spots us. Even if it is three decks down in the atrium.
Dinner for us was in the Pinnacle Grill, where we both ordered the wedge salad, steak, fries, and a quarter baked potato. We forgot to mention to our waiter that we preferred our dinner very hot, so perhaps next time, we will ask for hot plates. Usually the main course has been served with plates hot enough for the servers to use pads, but not since this Panama cruise has begun. Dessert was the baked Alaska, which we really ordered for just the Cherry Garcia ice cream.
For the final time on this trip, the clocks went back one hour tonight. So since January 22, we gained back every hour, one by one, sometimes ½ by ½ ,giving us back the day we lost when crossing the International Dateline. Finally, we are back to Pacific time, the correct one for us.
And this evening’s goodnight message is one to think about – Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer. - Anonymous –
Bill & Mary Ann
