We had an early breakfast today since we are in the port of Cartagena, Colombia. There were only four diners in the Pinnacle Grill when we arrived, so service was excellent, with some time to spend chatting with the most friendly waiters.
Our room was cleaned by the time we got back to it. We had a visit from the Head Housekeeper checking to see the progress with her requests. All had been done, with the exception of the torn metal door frame. She was not happy about that, and would put in another work order for it.
After she left, we had a phone call from Teresa, the Event Coordinator, informing us that the next Mariner Event would be a few days before we arrive to San Diego. Yes, we knew that but we were still trying to figure out what happened to the first invite. Water under the bridge now, but we hope the rest of the mailings do not get lost. We inquired whether or not Teresa had received our list of items we always ask for. Our travel agent always sends this list in well before the cruise, so these things are in place when we board. It saves the room stewards a lot of time that way. The requests did make it to the N. Statendam, just not here.
Then we asked if there would be Luggage Direct service in San Diego. That's where you put your luggage out the night before we get there, and you don't see it until you arrive at your final destination. Teresa said she would check into it for us.
Leaving the ship by 10:30am, all we needed were our key cards and a driver's license. No mention of a valid Covid vaccination card. That's the first time it was not needed since this trip began in December. The cruise terminal here is always fun with a manmade oasis with mature trees giving it the look and feel of a tropical mangrove. Even though we have been here a dozen times, we still like to photograph the many birds, anteater, and some resident monkeys. Never have we seen so many peacocks and macaws as we saw today.
We noticed that there were no flamingoes in their usual enclosure. Perhaps they have been removed or died. The peacocks seemed to have taken over this area. First time we saw some carp in the pond.
It was nice to get inside the air-conditioned store, as it turned out to be a very warm and humid day. We passed through the store, then out the back door. Could not help but notice several "watchers" in there, keeping an eye on the merchandise. Outside the back door, we were greeted with the loud screeches of the macaws. There must have been 100 of them. The peacocks were everywhere as well. They like to perch high up in the trees and send out their calls. Boy, does that sound familiar to us or what? Strangely enough, we have 19 of these birds at home in aviaries. We deducted that with the Covid closure of this port, all of these birds did better with hatching their eggs without disturbances.
We saw the one anteater pacing in his cage, like he wanted out. Then going inside the aviary, we saw many ducks, geese, two toucans, two macaws, and one tortoise. Then watching under the huge banyan fig trees, we did spot two howler monkeys, so lazy, they barely moved. Most people thought we were taking pictures of the peacocks, until we showed them the monkeys.
Making our way back to the shop, one of us picked out a 3 piece set of gourd jewelry, which is unique to here. Guess you can consider it "green" since it is made from a type of vegetable. I have a small collection already, and it is fun adding more colors to the mix.
Walking slowly back to the ship, we wondered where the complimentary shuttle was. It's never where you need it to be, although, we would not get inside of it. By the way, we were required to wear our masks getting off and on the ship, as well as in the shop at the terminal. We had completed an hour and half tour today, mainly because all aboard was 12:30pm. A short stop was all that was needed here. Noticed that the ship took on some fuel, as well as off-loaded either recyclables and garbage onto a small barge.
The Captain took the ship out of the harbor slowly before 1pm, so we could enjoy the scenery. It sure was one hot and terribly humid afternoon. The high rise buildings in this sprawling city have sky-rocketed since we first began coming here. Once we were out to sea, they picked up speed and a much welcomed breeze on the veranda. And that's where we stayed for quite a while until it was time for computer/photo work.
Dinner in the dining room was not exciting, so we made last minute reservations in the Pinnacle Grill and got a 4 top table set for 2 at 8pm. Perfect, as was the meal of wedge salads, clothesline bacon, 7 ounce filets, a shared baked potato with toppings, and a bowl of sauteed mushrooms. Usually we don't do desserts, but tonight we had a baked Alaska and one chocolate soufflé. The head chef from India made a stop to chat, and we thanked him for such great tasting food.
Going back to the elevator, we took notice that both the BB King Blues and the Billboard Onboard venues were well attended. We would guess that the duel piano players had twice the folks in attendance.
Looking forward to the crossing tomorrow.
Bill & Mary Ann
Monday, April 11, 2022
Report #114 Cartagena, Columbia Sunday April 10, 2022 7:00 am - 1 pm Sunny With Some Clouds 82 Degrees
