The ship is heading northwest as we sail towards the Dominican Republic and the port of Amber Cove. At least the sun was out this morning, but it came with gale force winds of 7 on the Beaufort scale. Our Club Orange waiter remarked about how rough the sailing was during the night. That was news to us, because neither of us felt it. The only time you might notice the movement is when you are walking from place to place. During the night, once you get under those nice fresh sheets, you are rocked to sleep with the motion. This ship, as large as it is, seems to ride the seas well.
At 11am, we were invited to another Mariner Recognition Event held in the Billboard Onboard. This group had to be the biggest yet, with several couples getting medallions from bronze to gold. One couple that we recognized from world cruises, was inducted into the President's Club. Now we have a total of 11 members onboard. We also got to meet the new Guest Relations Manager, Tatiana. She joined the ship when Janine left, and has been in a "commencement" period, which actually means quarantined for several days. She had her "coming out" today and seemed very happy to meet our expanding group. Jonah, the event coordinator, will still be here to take care of her people, including the 11 of us. She is the best. The Captain gave a short speech of welcome and thanked us all for trusting HAL to provide a safe and fun cruise. Everyone was introduced and welcomed to come take a photo with the Captain and Rene, the hotel director. Morning beverages were served, such as mimosas, champagne, wine, or soda and orange juice. The event lasted exactly one hour, although our group always stays and visits.
It's funny how the weather can be deceiving. On the port side (our side) , our windows and veranda were sprayed with water, also coated with salt. If we didn't know better, we would say it was raining. Taking our usual morning walk, we noticed a huge difference on the starboard side. It was warm and windy, but the sun was shining. Really great weather for walking, and even better if the ship could stay still. So far, we have seen no birds or flying fish.
Lunch was in the Lido with two salads, garlic bread, and a toasted salami and turkey sandwich. There are three types of chips available at the sandwich bar…..potato, tortilla, and plantain chips. The potato chips must be the most popular, since that bowl is always almost empty. At least no one can stick their hands in those bowls. Desserts were tempting, but we still have a good supply of biscotti cookies in our room. We had one each, then went to work on photos and future reports.
A walk was in order before dinner, so we did our mile until it was time for dinner. The five of us were back, but due to table noise next door, it was hard to hear any of us talking. Having two large tables between the walls seems to trap the noise even more. One of our group did mention it to someone in charge, but we doubt anything can be done about where people choose to eat. It's one of those awkward situations that has no good solution, other than we move elsewhere. Doubt that will happen……
Tomorrow's port will be Amber Cove, where we have been only once. If nothing else, it is a good place to take a walk.
Bill & Mary Ann
Sunday, February 20, 2022
Report #64 Day At Sea En-Route To Amber Cove, Dominican Republic Saturday-February 19, 2022 Sunny, Gale Force Winds - 80 Degrees
