The Zaandam crossed the International Date Line sometime today and here is the poem that was printed in the Daily newsletter:
Ladies and gents, here we go again,
October 30 makes it's return, my friends!
We're crossing the line, reversing our way,
So buckle up – it's a double day!
Yes, twice the fun, twice the delight,
One day repeated, day and night.
So settle in and don't think twice,
This date's so nice – we'll do it twice!
And we can add that if you didn't like yesterday, you have another chance to make it better today. During his noon update, the Captain said we had sailed 166 nautical miles from Vava'u , and had a further 600 plus nautical miles to go to reach the Cook Islands by Saturday November 2nd. Sailing almost due east, it was mostly sunny with some clouds, and the swells were 6 feet with a nice breeze. The closest land we were passing was the small island of Niue, where we have stopped several times on past cruises. Honestly, there is very little there and the tender ride is not always possible. The navigation officers saw a whale spouting in the distance very early this morning, but chose not to announce it. We shall keep an eye out for more whales on our promenade walks today.
There are two new guest speakers who gave lectures in the World Stage this morning. Boat building was an afternoon activity, which indicates there will be a boat race before this trip ends. Trivia seems to be as popular as ever, and there was even a crocheter's meeting. There were three different sessions of bridge lessons as well.
It appears that one of the most popular activities is relaxing on the teak lounges on the promenade deck. During our afternoon walk, we found only two lounges empty on both sides of the ship. It was also obvious to us that there were many people that were saving these lounges with all of their belongings. And to be fair, we have not seen any notices that you cannot save your chairs here. The rules on this deck are no running or jogging, since there are rooms under this deck.
Dinner was back in the dining room for us. Starters were a panko-crusted brie with the berries. However, they were almost warm at best. We think these appetizers were on the waiter's station, and they got cold in the meantime. Sometimes the waiters will bring extra appetizers in anticipation of several of their guests ordering them. Our Caesar salads were fine as always. Entrees were one jerk chicken with a pineapple salsa and one veal piccata with risotto……both were tasty, but only one of the mains was hot. We don't know how they do it, but sometimes the plate is blazing hot, but the food is not. Go figure? Dessert was one scoop of vanilla and one of mint chip ice cream.
The Zaandam Rep Co. presented a "Hits on 45" show in the World Stage. It was a new twist on an old theme with radio hits from the past. The songs featured unforgettable hits from Elvis, Bacharach, Diana Ross, Fleetwood Mac and more. Or you could watch a movie in the Wajang Theater – Young Frankenstein.
Two more sea days to the Cook Islands.
Bill & Mary Ann
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