At his noontime talk, the Captain said that we had sailed a total of 13,548 nautical miles so far, and we have about 260 more to go to reach our final destination of San Diego. The ship was currently doing a speed of 15 knots or 17.3 mph, slowing down to get to the pick-up stop for the pilot tomorrow. At the moment we were 150 miles off of the coast of Mexico, and finally the seas have calmed down. The swells have not stopped, keeping us rolling and pitching somewhat. Compared to the last three or four days, we will take this any day. It was mostly sunny later in the morning, but the breeze began having a chill to it. Sure starting to feel like southern California in the winter……between 57 and 61 degrees. The Captain added that we will be docked by 6:30am, and with the US Customs and Border Protection Officials coming onboard to clear some select passengers, the debarkation should begin by 8:30am, give or take a few minutes. That is……if everyone understands this process, and does not decide to sleep late. Yes, that has happened on previous cruises, delaying the entire process. Time will tell……
The final packing took place this morning, and was accomplished without any problems. The usual activities were taking place, but we doubt many folks participated, as this would be the final day to get ready to leave. People also needed to cash out on their casino accounts (if there was anything left), and take the time to buy stuff in the shops.
One thing we have noticed in comparing this cruise to the world voyage, is that many events that took place during the trip were not shown on the TV later in the day. This would be the Coffee Chat with the cruise director, the Indonesian and Filipino shows in the Mainstage, and also the Passenger Talent Show. By the time we remembered that guest talent show was on yesterday, it was mostly over. Another aspect we missed was the Arts and Crafts sessions in the Lido at 2:30pm, which ceased sometime after we left Tonga perhaps. It seemed to be so popular, but it stopped halfway through the trip. Having these seven days at sea coming back, would have been a good time to keep people busy during the afternoon.
The On Deck for a Cause, the 5k walk for charity took place beginning at 1:30pm. For the first time we remember, the sign-up sheets were not delivered to our rooms. At least we did not get one. Early on we did get a request for donations to the Bahama survivors of the hurricane several months ago. That was a first.
Since a small period of sun actually was shining on our deck, we took advantage of the veranda, probably for the final time this trip. We did enjoy the outdoor space whenever we wished to get fresh air, but we also missed our room on Dolphin deck. Frankly, there is more space for the clothes, and with a very long cruise, that becomes more important. In a matter of a few weeks, we will be back "home", so to speak.
Dinner was fun, but also sad for many who will be leaving tomorrow. Since we will be coming back so soon, it almost feels like we are doing an overland trip. Anyway, our choice for the entrees this evening was fish and chips, made with halibut. Sure was good, even for the almost non-fish eater among us. There were no bones, and that made us both happy. Desserts were a lingonberry chocolate layer cake, and one scoop of vanilla ice cream with a touch of chocolate sauce. These will be the last desserts for us for at least 12 days.
Saying good bye to our waiters was not so hard, since they know we will be back. They will be at another station on the grand voyage, and are promised to long time clients. We are learning that many of the world cruise guests have their favorites, and Philip is happy to assign the waiters accordingly.
So the Log of the Cruise was waiting for us when we got back from dinner. In 51 days, the fuel consumption was over 874,000 gallons, and 122,400 eggs were consumed. That always makes us laugh to know how many eggs people ate, in one form or another. And another interesting fact is that there were 33 nationalities of crew members.
By this time tomorrow, we should be home, and enjoying the holidays with friends and family. But we will be back, so stay tuned…….. and Happy Holidays to all!
Bill & Mary Ann
