Cruising the Inside Passage was the title of today's "The Daily" newsletter. However, for the majority of the day, we were on the outside of the islands so we could make the most of the time we needed to get to Vancouver. And today was the final day at sea where the guests could take advantage of the spa specials, the promotions in the shops, and attending the Alaska Brunch in the dining room. There was no early breakfast served in the lower dining room, but the extended time from 10am to 1pm was dedicated to a special brunch. We were told that this brunch was not served in the small shot glasses like they did a few years ago. As for us, we prefer being spoiled with the morning service in the Pinnacle Grill, which opened at 8am.
We had the chance to talk with the other President's Club couple, who asked us if we had gotten an invitation to a Mariner Event this afternoon. Come to think of it, no, we did not. This would be the first time there was no event at all. Perhaps no one was getting a medallion, so someone decided to skip it. We are certain that the other couple inquired at the front desk. They have been onboard for a month now, and have had these get-togethers on each 7 day cruise. We will have to ask them tomorrow morning what they were told about the non-event.
Later in the morning, we did get one more canvas tote bag and two tiles. And we had an invitation to an international wine tasting in the dining room at 2pm. As most all of you know, we are not necessarily wine drinkers. Give us a good whiskey or scotch, then we are happy. Anyway, Tahana, the Cellar Master, had mentioned this event a few days ago and we said we would try it. So at 2pm, we went to the dining room to find the Captain's table area had been transformed into a private tasting for about 18 or 20 people. An assortment of wines were featured from France, Spain, Italy, New Zealand, Argentina, the USA, and Chile. Flags representing these countries hung from the orchestra pit. Some were whites, but the majority were reds. One of us cannot tolerate red wine (headaches, etc.), so a few sips of the whites would be OK. In addition to the wines, there were three trays of assorted cheeses. The best was the smoked gouda. Tahana handed each of us a paper and a pencil to rate the wines by sight, aroma, and taste as we sipped them. Great idea….that way you could remember your likes and dislikes. Since we had not eaten lunch yet, we helped ourselves to some of the cheese slices, then tried a few of the white wines. By the way, this event was advertised in the newsletter for $29 a person. Since the majority of guests will be leaving tomorrow, we found it strange to have a tasting when there was only one day left. We thanked Tahana and excused ourselves as we headed for the Lido for salads and one slice of pizza.
The weather was not the best today. Most of the morning, we were in the fog, which turned to drizzle and finally rain. The temperature was in the 50's. We did take a walk on the promenade deck where many people were covered with blankets and sleeping in the lounge chairs. Must have something to do with putting the clocks ahead last night. There was a chance for scenic cruising, but not until 4pm. The bow would have been opened, but it was too wet and rainy. As usual, we went to deck six forward and waited and watched for one ½ hours, but only spotted three otters. We would have to wait until 6:30pm to see orcas, one porpoise, and several whales diving and spouting. By then, we were soaked even with our heavy jackets. Only three other guests joined us for the wildlife sightings. We seem to recall we had seen the whales and porpoise in exactly the same area as last week.
Dinnertime had some of our favorites. Tonight was extremely casual since most everyone had packed their luggage and did not wish to dress up one more time. Can't say we blame them. Starters were the spring roll and tomato soup. We had gotten chilled to the bone outside, and the hot soup warmed us up. Mains were the sweet and sour shrimp plate, but with the sweet chili sauce that came with the spring roll. The other entrée was the Club Orange leg of lamb….very good. We call these special dinners the "blue plate special" since they arrive on a blue plate. One of us enjoyed the tiny slice of rich chocolate cake with a cup of coffee. During dessert time, the chefs, kitchen staff, and some of the waiters paraded through the dining room singing their farewell song. That earned them a rousing applause from the guests, showing their appreciation for the good food and great service.
Back in Vancouver tomorrow, we will repeat the same process of leaving the ship by 9:15am, spending some time in town, then come back after lunch. Hope it doesn't rain……
Bill & Mary Ann
PS We have to mention that the laundry service has been excellent with the same day return. Today's basket came with a note saying "Thank you for sending your laundry. I hope you are satisfied with our service. Have a beautiful day". Signed by Arsa. For those who may not know, the Zaandam and Volendam have eliminated their self-service laundry rooms.
