This day at sea was sure appreciated after two busy days in port. It gave both of us a chance to catch up with computer work and research. The weather outside was for the most part….dismal. Overcast, cloudy, no sun, and just plain dreary. The temperature never got above 79 degrees. During his noon update, Captain Smit said we had traveled 275 nautical miles from Rarotonga, and have an additional 292 nautical miles to go to reach our first stop in French Polynesia – Raiatea. We are going at a fast speed of 17 knots, and hope to be outrunning a storm in this area.
He expects to pick up the pilot tomorrow at 6:30am, then proceed through the narrow channel through the coral reef. Last year, we did have scenic sailing in the lagoon that is shared by both Raiatea and its neighbor, Taha'a. That may not be possible if we have northwest winds of 20 knots and a swell of six feet or better. There is also a chance of rain with thunderstorms as well, although the temperature will be in the low 80's.
Chef Kamal gave a cooking demo on how to make a Japanese Pork Katsu with bok choy and curry sauce. It's nice to see they are still using the Wajang Theater for these occasional demos. America's Test Kitchen was fun while it lasted, but they are long gone from all of the HAL ships the days.
The port enrichment lecture was all about the land of the black pearl, while Dr. Charlie spoke about ocean waves and currents. Isabelle Groc presented marine mammals and sea turtles of French Polynesia. All perfect subjects for where we are traveling at the moment.
For a change of pace, there was a Tiki Bar Social Hour at 6:30pm in the Lido Dome, as well as a dance on the deck, also in the Lido Dome. That was scheduled to last until 11pm. Since that is right in the middle of our dinner time, we missed it again.
Tonight's dinner was dressy for a change also. And the dining room was just as full as always. The menu leaned towards Indonesian food such as Nasi Goreng and soto ayam soup, which one of us ordered. A different type of shrimp appetizer was good as were the chicken-stuffed spring rolls served on a bed of cabbage and carrots. Our entrees were the same - Wasabi-crusted tenderloin steak with tempura onion rings. Very good, tender, and tasty. Not quite the same steak we would get in the Tamarind, but half the thickness. It was plenty. Desserts were a rice pudding and a glass of orange sorbet.
And due to the event held in the Lido Dome, the World Stage was "dark" tonight. The other option was a movie in the Wajang – The Descendants at 8:30pm. The usual pre-show questions and answer session on the next port was held at 3pm in the showlounge. We think that is a great idea and should be done on the future grand voyages also.
Bill & Mary Ann
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