Today was one for relaxing, but it would not be in the sun. From the minute the daylight began, it was raining and overcast. Even the temperature had cooled off, as it was only about 75 degrees. The seas had become rough last night, and continued that way most of the day. Our morning consisted of breakfast in a booth, since all of the window tables were occupied by 8:05am. Seems that the folks are getting earlier for the line-up. We figured some people might sleep later due to the time change, but no, even some new folks were here early.
We did our morning walk, and very few people were outside. It had turned cool, but the decks were mostly dry. But by the time Ian and Kainoa's talk on Tonga and the Cook Islands was over, the people poured out the doors to walk at least one lap. Then they head for the line in the dining room since it was lunchtime. That's when we go to the Ocean Bar for refreshments. But it did not happen today, because the entire place was full of drinking customers. Still too crowded for our comfort, we went back to the room for cold sodas.
There was a movie in the Rolling Stones Lounge at 3pm called "Picture Bride". Not sure we saw this, but it sounds intriguing. We still have a ton of movies we have not watched on our interactive TV. The nice thing about that is if we want to watch it in sections, we can. Then resume it later.
One good thing is that the internet is working OK now. We are sure that everyone that uses it is much happier. Hope the service continues. We do know that when we hit the final port of Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas, the connection might be iffy at that.
Dinner was back in the dining room. There have been some interesting appetizers and even main courses on this cruise. Tonight we both tried the empanadas which had a masala seasoning. Not sure we would like it, you never know if you never try it. They were great. The fish entrees have been good…..tonight's fish was cobia – no bones. One of us had the penne pasta with prosciutto and parmesan cheese. It was light and not filling. Desserts were a chocolate torte with fudge tracks ice cream.
We forgot to mention something that happened last night in the Pinnacle Grill that was funny. It was very cool, as it has been in all of the dining venues. A lady eating few tables away from us asked for a small tablecloth to wrap around her shoulders….and they gave it to her, laughing all the way. There must have been some wine involved here.
Tomorrow's port will be Nuku'alofa, Tonga, and we will be staying overnight until 5pm Friday. We understand there will be a special ceremony with a plaque exchange honoring the maiden visit for the Zuiderdam. Will have to be on the promenade deck at 10:30am to see it.
Bill & Mary Ann
