November 12 - At Sea

Last day!  😥. Overnight we apparently passed by Kangaroo Island  (around 120 miles away!) and at noon were lined up with Cape Northumberland - I would have waved to the old stomping ground of Port MacDonnell but couldn't see through the rain and fog!!!  Weather is appalling but not rough.  Thankfully we are getting off tomorrow as people getting bored due weather.  

Had our final game of mahjong - what a treat to be able to play 60 hours of mahjong over 30 sea days.  Stella, Wendy & I were there for the whole cruise & Dale joined us when the other two left in Singapore.  Thanks so much Julie, the tiles were fantastic.  

Have also had our last pina coladas at happy hour - now to work them off in the next few weeks!!!!  Margaret & Richard (UK) have been such fun and another older couple, also from the UK, will be in Melbourne for the next six days so we hope to catch up with them during the week.  He is 88 & she is 87 - I videotaped them doing the twist on the dance floor last night!! 

Shortly off to dinner, a farewell to our terrific waiters and other dining room staff who have looked after us beyond expectations.  They are doing a special cherries jubilee for us tonight - not sure why! 

If anyone is still reading this, thanks!  Hope it hasn't been too boring or repetitive!  

Love to you all

Maureen XXX 

November 11 - At Sea

We are deep into the Bight now and the weather is pretty ordinary.  No-one sunbathing on the deck, although last night when I went to the buffet for some water after the show there were people watching the outdoor movie - wrapped up in about three blankets each and only just under cover (it was raining)!  

Nathan Foley didn't disappoint last night, he is an excellent performer and not hard to see why he won the performer of the year with Princess.  

At 10.45 this morning there was a lovely memorial service in the theatre, the place was packed, we had rousing hymns and good speakers along with the Last Post on the trumpet. 

Due to the weather, the ship feels crowded today, people walking around with sweaters & jackets on.  At noon the Captain told us that tomorrow's weather may get rough and to be careful walking about etc.  - but that is to be expected in these waters.  Apparently the depth of water at noon was 5,000 metres.  

Another formal night tonight then will start packing the bags tomorrow! 

November 10 - At Sea

Finally upped anchor ⚓️ and set sail around 7.30 pm.  Rounded Cape Naturaliste on the port side.  This Cape is a headland in the south western region of WA at the western edge of Geographe Bay.  It is the northernmost point of th Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge which was named after the cape.  After 50 nautical miles, abeam of Cape Hamelin, the ship set a south easterly course across the Great Australian Bight. 

Today's trivia! 

So far, the sea is really calm - like glass.  So much for the Bight being rough but then it might be early days!  

After breakfast we went to the port talk on Melbourne.  We have had the same man doing port talks since Southampton & he is called the port EXPERT! Well, a lot to be desired as he should have talked to some locals before he waffled on about Melbourne.  He talked about the tram, tickets etc, but didn't mention the free city trams, Queen Victoria Market, the MCC, botanical gardens, Grand Prix track.  Called the Dandenongs 'the Dandelols', said that if you were to get a taxi to Ballarat then you could swing back to Mel via the 'You You's'!!!!! As if!  He also said that as we are arriving on a Sunday it may be that a lot of things will be closed or more difficult to access. Anyway, after the lecture, I went up to the stage as he was packing up his notes and told him that first of all just because it is a Sunday doesn't mean anything will be closed.  That Melbourne is a very vibrant city, full of life every day of the week. And that I was disappointed he hadn't mentioned these beautiful parts of Melbourne let alone consulted locals before his delivery. So, Richard Eisenbise, get your red hat on and give these people the real deal on Sunday - you will be a great meeter and greeter!!!!!

It's not cold but it's also not warm - rather breezy so after lunch I went to a film 'The Money Monsters' which I enjoyed.  

Tonight's entertainment should be good, a guy called Nathan Foley who we saw when on the Star Princess earlier in the year.  He won the Princess entertainment award for the past year.  Was formerly a member of High 5.  

A lot of newbies on ship now as many disembarked in Perth.  Nearly all old and boring like us 🤓

 

November 9 - Busselton, WA

We had anchored at Busselton by the time I woke this morning - a cool day with a top temperature of 20C expected.  With only about 6 tenders operating and being quite a long distance from the shore we stayed aboard until around 9.30.  Passengers were met and welcomed by numerous local volunteers, all anxious to ensure a good day was had by all.  Being Wednesday, there was a local market nearby with mostly craft, jewellery and soaps/essences, etc, however I did see a dozen eggs on one table - just not sure if they would saleable to a ship load of 3,000 passengers!!! 

We were here in WA about 15 years ago and stayed several days in this region so didn't feel the need to go chasing wineries, chocolate or wood products so just wandered around the town, had a Chinese snack for lunch and caught up with a few people from the ship.  George went off to find a relative in the graveyard, didn't have any luck with the rellie  but did pick up a $50 note!!!!!

We don't sail until 6pm but sitting here now watching the TV and a Trump victory!!!! Not sure about Trump but very pleased Hillary didn't get in. 

A very nice dinner with yet another English couple and I will go to the show at 10.30.  Intended to have a flutter at the casino on the way but it is still closed - obviously not far enough from the coast yet!  What strange laws we have!!!! 

Nvember 8 - Fremantle/Perth

We docked very early and I could hear recorded music coming from the terminal -  Then around 7.30 am a folk trio appeared & sang all the Aussie songs for about 2 hours as people disembarked. There was a TV crew there too, big deal to welcome the Emerald Princess on her first visit to Australia.   After breakfast we walked to the train station and got a train to Perth.  Then got a bus to Kings Park which is looking amazing at the moment.  People everywhere, boosted by probably half the people from the ship.  Can't complain about the weather - is a lovely 24C!  

Nice to have my phone again and to have wifi without effort!  

Have just enjoyed a toasted sandwich in London Arcade, looked for the Forum Cafe which I used to frequent on visits to Perth with Ansett but it now appears to be a bra shop or something similar LOL!!!!

Will probably get a ferry back to Fremantle.  Perth/Fremantle is SO clean after some of the places we've just visited - it's been a nice first impression for visitors, I'm sure.  

Will post this now & maybe more later.  London Court, Kings Park

November 7 - At Sea

Still going south!!!!!  Early this morning we were 20 miles from Steep Point - the most westerly point of the Australian mainland. It is located within the Shark Bay World Heritage site in the Gascoyne region of WA.  On 17 July, 2006, the largest recorded tsunami to strike Australia was measured at 7.9 metres at Steep Point after being triggered by the earthquake off Java, Indonesia.  Trivia for the day! 

We are now free of ANY humidity - the English people are at a loss as to what to do now there is limited sun and plenty of wind.  Just hope their suntans don't fade before they get back to the UK! The seas are a little rougher and at least two of my mahjong friends are into the quells!  For us the movement is only slight - the Bight may be a test for some.  

Went to the talk on Margaret River this morning.  We don't have any plans for Perth or MR - will just see how the day pans out!  

Off now to a wine tasting.  

Later.......Well, to give you an idea of the wines tasted, the first was a Sav Blanc Nobilo, NZ, then Chardonnay Fetzer, Calif., followed by Cotes-Du-Rhone, a light red from Fr. and then an Ancient Peaks Merlot from Calif.  This was by far the tastiest of the four.  Finished off with a Prosecco from Italy which wasn't a patch on the King Valley proseccos from home. But all in all, a pleasant way to spend an hour or so. 

The show turned out to be fantastic - the best yet! And we had a lovely dinner with Dale & John afterwards. 

November 6 - At Sea

We are continuing to head south crossing the Indian Ocean bounded north by Asia, west by West Africa, east by Australia and to the south by Antartica.  The Indian Ocean 

Is known as Ratnakara, 'the mine of gems' in ancient Sanskrit literature and as Hind Mahasagar 'the great indian sea' in Hindi! 

While the day is still warm and sunny the humidity definitely has gone and there is a nice breeze.  

I've been sitting on the deck next to an English lady who told me she is travelling to Sydney and hoping to emigrate!  Both her children live in Batemans Bay and as her husband recently died she expects she can get a sole parent permanent visa.  I asked how much luggage she has & she said '17 boxes and 8 suitcases'! Hope they don't turn her back at the port!!!!

Another urgent call for a blood donor this afternoon - there have been many medical emergencies this trip.  Apparently a couple of people have pneumonia and there are some dreadful coughs around the ship.  

Am about to start my 9th book - being able to read this many is heaven!!

Black tie, again - not sure why it is so necessary to get dressed up but some of the women have beautiful gowns and cocktail wear.  I filled in some time at the casino before the show - had a small win on the slots but still my roulette numbers refuse to come up!!!  The show was very good, a guy Patrick McMahon, singer, from WA.  He was actually a bit hyperactive, but a wonderful singer & entertainer who comes from a sheep farm north of Perth.  He is on again tomorrow night in a split show with La Forza, the tenors we missed last night.

It is very windy outside and the ship has a bit of a rock tonight.  Is nice for a change as has been so calm most of the way.  

 

November 5 - At Sea

Now heading on a southerly course towards Freemantle!  So we're on the way home.  

Today is the first of three more sea days before reaching Australia. It is still very warm and today they had the King Neptune celebrations at the pool. Some of us chose to play mahjong, Dale came later as hadn't seen the performance before. 

I enjoyed three hours solid reading this afternoon, gave happy hour a miss!!!!! Then dined with Dot & Jeff (of lost luggage fame) and decided to both go to the show.  But when we got to the theatre it was packed and the show was almost over!  Turns out we missed the best entertainment ever - three tenors from Australia.  Heard the last two numbers from the wings! They certainly made up for the comedian last night.  

Can't resist posting the lovely pic of Jane & Chloe received today!

November 4 - Bali

We didn't drop anchor this morning until 9am - everyone waiting to take tenders to the shore and get on with their day/tours etc.  There were local as well as ship's tenders which made it a little quicker.  By then it was very hot, people were out paragliding, skiing and jetski riding.  

Our driver picked us up and we set off on a tour of Bali as neither of us had been before.  Stopped at a coffee plantation, there were some coffee trees as well as cocoa trees and a selection of spices such as vanilla, lemongrass etc and there were also mongoose in cages.  These are the animals that eat the bean which then passes through their poo and is processed to make the most expensive  coffee in the world.  We were treated to a selection of teas and coffee as well as a spicy cocoa drink.  

On to lunch at a restaurant recommended by the driver and which proved to be very good.  

We drove all around Ubud which definitely has a character of it's own.  Saw some cheeky monkeys outside the monkey enclosure.  We stopped at the markets for a while but not enough time to really see everything.  Traffic was incredible but we had no difficulty getting back to the shore in time for the last tender at 5 pm.  However,, there was a huge line of people and it took me nearly an hour to get on the tender.  

We didn't share at dinner tonight, the dining room was quiet until late as people returning from excursions were late back on the ship and we actually didn't sail until around 8pm.  

George was tired and wanted to go to bed (8.30!) so I decided to  go to the show alone, again. Sat in the piazza for a while listening to a violinist and decided to have a cocktail!!!  The waiter asked if I wanted a 'Virgin cocktail' - I said 'absolutey not, thanks!!!! Make it real'!!

The quality of shows on the cruise has generally been abysmal! Last night they produced some old bloke from Sydney - he was in his 70's, probably, dressed in a double-breasted suit & carrying a small suitcase.  As a singer, (and accompanied by the excellent Princess orchestra) he was OK, but did he have to put on a wig, or a pair of sunglasses or use a puppet to tell us who he was trying to be?  And his jokes were something else!!!!! 

 

November 3 - At Sea

Really nothing exciting much  today - although they did lay new carpet in our suite this afternoon.  Guess they are  gradually working through the ship, unfortunately we didn't get to choose the colour!! 

As well as mahjong I played scrabble with a nice lady from Sydney - she had wandered along to ask if she could play mahjong but as we already have our numbers she asked about scrabble.  

Joined a couple from Yorkshire (everyone is from Yorkshire!) who spend their time going to horseraces so there was no lack of conversation at the table.  

Went to the show afterwards which was a production by the singers and dancers and quite good.  

Tomorrow - Bali 

November 2 - At Sea

The Emerald Princess is now on a west, southwesterly course in the South China Sea.  Some facts about this sea:   The South China Sea opened around 45 million years ago when the 'Dangerous Ground' rifted away from southern China.  Extension culminated in seafloor spreading around 30 million years ago, a process that propagated to the SW resulting in th V-shaped basin we see today.  Extension ceased around 17 million years ago!!!  Another bit of trivia.  

Today we were meant to have the King Neptune celebrations at 11 am but the weather was lousy - wet and windy so has now been postponed for a few days.  Didn't worry me or the other mahjong players, we're all too old for that these days!!! 

As one day follows another, so too does breakfast, lunch,  dinner 😂 & then the show.  Of course there is the walking, reading & occasional cocktail too. Jon Darsk, the pianist, was in the Princess Theatre again for the 2 shows (8 & 10.15) and so we ate early in order to go to the early show.  It was so good we stayed for the late one! He is a marvellous artist, had a standing ovation each time. 

November 1 - At Sea

Overnight the ship proceeded with a southwesterly course into the South China Sea which is a marginal part of the Pacific Ocean.  It encompasses an area from the Karimata and Malacca Straits to the Strait of Taiwan.  The area's importance largely results from one third of the world's shipping sailing through its waters and that it is believed to hold huge oil and gas reserves beneath the seabed.  We did see many oil rigs this morning from a distance. A bit of trivia!!

A busy day as the telecast for the Melbourne Cup began at 8am!  (We are 4 hours behind until tomorrow morning). After breakfast we secured some deck chairs on deck 16 but for the first couple of hours there were intermittent showers so some of us went for cover.  It was great on the big screen, just like being in Melbourne only warmer!  Neither of us had a win in the sweep though.  I reckon if there'd been an SP bookie on board he would have made a fortune! 

Not sure who'll make the cocktails when we get back but it is very nice to have a couple at happy hour, 3-4pm on sea days!!! Margaret & Richard are characters and great company.  

Lots of entertainment around the ship tonight, after dinner we sat in the cafe & enjoyed some classical music then a very bright 5 minute routine by the dance troupe.  It was a tribute to Princess and the dancers were dressed as waiters, chefs, cabin attendants, etc, very Disney like.  

Another medical emergency late this afternoon - an announcement asking for a blood donor for an urgent transfusion.  Never a dull moment!

After dinner I went to the show and saw Chantelle Delaney perform.  She is an International singer, songwriter and guitarist and hails from Melbourne. Actually she was really good, sang some beautiful songs including Hallelujah & Tennessee Waltz!  

31 October - Bangkok

Last night's entertainment was the best yet - a pianist called Jon Darsk.  Jon is an Aussie, born & went to school in Tasmania but the family moved around Australia as his dad was a conductor of symphony orchestras and his mother was a piano teacher.  He attended the Brisbane Conservatorium and has lived in Melbourne and Adelaide.  Anyway, his music was fantastic, he played everything from Beethoven to Billy Joel,   Country to Rock & Roll and was a high energy performer!  

Today we are in Laem Chabang, the port for Bangkok.  It is about a two hour bus ride to BKK and a 40 minute drive to Pattaya.  George has gone to BKK on an un-organised tour but I opted to remain on the ship!  There are some stalls on the wharfside and I wandered around there for a bit but no real shopping closer than Pattaya which I didn't wish to visit again.  Maybe it has been cleaned up in the past few years but was pretty grotty last time we were there.  

Speaking of music, it is interesting to note that all the pianists and musicians in the various lounges seem to be using ipads to read their music.  

I had my hair trimmed this afternoon by a very nice Parisian guy, Christian.  He's doing a 10 month contract with Princess before returning to Paris in December. 

George returned from Bangkok hot & tired and a bit cranky - once again I am enjoying some entertainment by myself in one of the lounges.  Too early to retire as is not yet 9.30. 

The ship is decorated for halloween and many people have dressed up accordingly.  They take it pretty seriously!!! The pics below are proof of that and our Thai waiter Niran looked a treat at dinner!  

  

30 October - Koh Samui, Thailand

Aother day - Sunday, Koh Samui, Thailand!  It was raining when we arrived, is now raining as we prepare to depart!!!  But has been mainly fine and humid during the day. We were tendered off the ship & as we had no plans decided to share a mini bus with two others, Margaret & Richard, from Yorkshire.  Left the port just after 9am, - cost about $20 each from the port to the beach area Chaweng Beach (a 40 minute drive) and the driver waited for us until 3 pm for the return to the ship.  Margaret & I enjoyed some retail therapy although she has more to show than I do.  Being a beach area there wasn't much to interest me, rubbish really, but there were some good handbag shops which is where Margaret spent her money.  We dipped our feet in the ocean to cool down & while standing there a guy came along with a monkey - I thought I had  got a pic but he wanted 100 baht & moved the monkey before I prssed the button!!

We did find a very good restaurant for lunch and I'm pleased to say I've satisfied my need for some authentic Thai food - Tom Yum soup and a deep fried spicy fish which was excellent!!!  Washed down with a beer.  

Back at the port we had to wait a while but finally got on a tender and now enjoying a gin & tonic in our room.  

29 October -At Sea

We are transitting through the Gulf of Thailand, heading towards Koh Samui.  Formerly the Gulf of Siam it is a shallow inlet in the western part of the South China and Eastern Archipelagic seas, a marginal body of water in the western Pacific Ocean.  The gulf is surrounded by Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. 

Well,  the show last night confirmed that the entertainment has generally been woeful on this cruise.  Once again the comedian was a tired old has-been from Canada and his 'jokes' were sleep inducing and boring.  The cruise director is probably the worst we've ever had on a ship and I can only assume that he makes the final decision with the choice of entertainers. Never mind, there are plenty of other ways we get a decent laugh - only have to sit still for a half hour and watch the people.  Enough said.  And they are no doubt watching us too!!!!!

Today has been iffy weather-wise - rain and sunshine.  But the sea is like a millpond - hope we might get a bit of rock  & roll between Perth & Melbourne!   The talk this morning was on Koh Samui where we will be tomorrow.  We don't have any plans yet, will decide in the morning.  The beaches look lovely so we may take a cab to a resort area. 

 Mahjong again and we have a new player, Dale from Bendigo. It was bliss without the voice from WA and her puppet husband.  Am sure they were trying to test me by their strange habits of calling the tiles by the incorrect names and throwing the dice as if they were playing Craps in the casino but as in games such as bridge, golf, tennis, etc, so too does mahjong has it's own etiquette.  

It was a formal night again and so we dressed accordingly - dined with a Scottsh couple and it was almost impossible to understand her with her skittish, high pitched 

voice.  Nice people though but rather difficult with background noise and being deaf!!

Tonight's show in the theatre was very good, probably the best yet.  Beautiful costumes and excellent dancing routines by the Princess singers and dancers - it was Disco-Blame it on the Boogie'.  

28 October - Singapore

Finally got off the ship after a whole lot of rigmarole - guess 3,000 people getting off and going through immigration is like 7 Jumbos landing at one time!! And there was another ship parked the other side of the pier doing the same thing. 

Walked to the MRT station and could only buy a single ticket so took the train to City Hall to purchase a day ticket. Then set out for Chinatown.  An hour or two of wandering around in the heat caused rather a big thirst  so we found a nice airconditioned restaurant, mainly for a 'sit down and a beer' and decided on some nice spicy 🌶 food for a snack.  

We haven't been to Singapore for years and the new shipping terminal is very close to most things ie the Wheel, Harbourtown, Raffles etc but after Chinatown and then Harbourtown we had had enough & returned to the ship by train.  We are both weary from all the walking but had to go through another emergency drill at 5pm as many new guests on board.  An announcement just now to say that 19 passengers still haven't returned their passports to security and we can't sail until they have been handed in!  😬 

Another announcement - the passports are all in order but someone is sick & we're now waiting for an ambulance to come & collect them!!!  Probably better than another helicopter medi-vac at sea later on.  

We shared a table at dinner with a really nice couple from Perth.  In another life he used to be an officer on P & O ships in the 60's.  

Documents all signed and we left the dock at around 8 pm. George has gone to bed, I'm keen to see the show but will leave if it not up to standard!!!! 

27 October - At Sea

Overnight we headed in a south easterly course into the Strait of Malacca, a narrow, 850 km stretch of water between the Malay Peninsular and the Indonesian island of Sumatra. There have been non-stop cargo ships all the way today - no wonder as this is apparently the busiest shipping stretch of water in the world. Next Stop Singapore  tomorrow. 

This morning there was a cooking demonstration in the Princess Theatre followed by a ship galley tour.  The head chef prepared three dishes, pasta with pesto sauce, sea scallops with ratatouille and tira misu.  I watched the cooking demo but had to be at mahjong at 11 so missed the tour.  After our game we all had lunch in the dining room - farewelling Cathy & Peter (😅) who are disembarking tomorrow.  Dale, new friend from Bendigo, will replace them from now on.  

Happy hour again in the Wheelhouse bar with Margaret & Richard.  We see them there for a catchup most days and enjoy a buy one - get one for a $1 deal!!!!!  And before  the end of each sector there is a raffle draw for patrons but we didn't win anything.

The whale pool will be quiet now as a storm has hit and there is rain, thunder and some lightning.  

We are meeting Patti & Gaylord (retired Pastor) for dinner tonight - they're getting off in Singapore & spending some time there and in Malaysia. Will miss their company.

  

26 October - Phuket

Phuket!  Was very pretty coming in at dawn despite being foggy.  Is about 30 years since we were here when the girls were young.  We anchored at about 7am and those on our tour assembled by 7.15 ready to get off the ship as quickly as possible. As it turned out we were on the first tender which meant our tour got away to a good start.  We were divided into two buses of 9 with a guide on each.  First stop was a walk down a beautiful little street known as Romanee St which was famous for prostitutes and opium back in the tin mining days.  Arrived at a tourist information place where we were given the lowdown on what we'd be seeing and while there the mayor walked in accompanied by photographers!  She was a really beautiful lady, dressed in a black suit with lovely jewellery and apparently she lives close by.  She spoke to the group and we'll probably be in the Phuket Times in the morning LOL.  Most Thais are dressed in black and shop displays have all kinds of black outfits and t-shirts in their windows.  The official mourning period for the King goes on! Black & white bunting adorns most of the buildings. 

On to Chin Pracha Mansion, a privately owned house built for the family in 1903.  It was  great, the family still live upstairs and they allow certain tour operators to view the downstairs rooms.  The furnishings were older than the house as most of it had come from Penang and was a mixture of both Chinese and British.  Most interesting. This house has been used for at least 3 films including The Killing Fields and Heaven and Earth with Oliver Stone and for Indiana Jones.

Then we visited a Thai Buddhist Ordination Temple and from there went to a restaurant for lunch.  We were all looking forward to some spicy food and weren't disappointed 🌶🌶There was green curry, prawn cakes, calamari, chicken, fish, rices  etc etc. and watermelon, which all went down nicely with a cold beer!!!

Next stop was a gypsy fishing village - some of us opted to remain in the air-con of the bus but the others walked for ages through a very downmarket area to view a boat come to shore with a load of fish!!!  After an experience in a shanty town in South America earlier in the year I'm not going there again!!!!

Back now on the ship, we were tendered in a large local boat and all should be aboard by 5.30.  We are anchored near Mariner of the Seas which must have arrived this afternoon.  Dinner might be a cool G & T!!!!

25 October - At Sea

The ship entered into the into the Andaman Sea during the night.  This sea has been traditionally used for fishery and transportation of goods between the coastal countries.   Of course the coral reefs and islands are very popular tourist destinations. 

Not much to report from the day, by now I hardly have to list the exciting things we do each day!!!!!! 

Before dinner we enjoyed a 45 min New Orleans music soirée in the Piazza.  It was fantastic, possibly the best entertainment on the ship  yet.  The Princess orchestra is always excellent, on all ships, and very versatile, but last night they were amazing. 

Enjoyed the company of yet another Scottish couple at dinner then went to the late show in the theatre which was dreadful! An American comedian, Tom Briscoe - he was so boring. 

I may have given the impression that the cruise has been just so-so. Actually it has been great - just not a lot to report when we have so many sea days but it is truly the most relaxing holiday you could have!  This type of holiday may. not be for everyone, of course.  

An early start tomorrow in Phuket. 

24 October - At Sea

Firstly, Annie, this is not the Herald Sun - if it doesn't get published daily, don't panic!!!!!

After passing south off the coast of Sri Lanka we entered into the Bay of Bengal which is the largest bay in the world and which forms the northeastern part of the Indian Ocean.  Roughly triangular it is bordered mostly by India and Sri Lanka to the west, Bangladesh to the north and Myanmar and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to the east.  At the Captain's noon announcement the depth of the ocean was 3,200 metres!!! 

The weather is warm and humid and will stay that way now probably till we hit the heads of Port Phillip Bay!!! 

Another lazy day for me, not sure how I'll cope when I get home and have to make my own bed, use the same towel for more than one shower, or order the next cocktail!!

One third of the passengers are disembarking in Singapore and apparently we'll be full again at least until Perth.  Two of the mahjong players (husband & wife) are leaving and we have a replacement lined up which is good.  She (the wife) is a motor mouth, you would  never know just what will come out and she knows everything! Has been everywhere, done everything, if you get my drift.  

The captain had another cocktail party tonight.  We dressed and went to the piazza early in order to get a table on the lower level and sat people watching for an hour or so.  Then they served the drinks and I had every intention of taking some pics of the captain making his speech (he always does this) but George wanted to get to the dining room before the crowd and he insisted the captain would not be in attendance.  So, you've guessed it, as soon as we left............!  But what would I know.  

Dinner was lovely, we shared a table with a couple from the UK.  They are partners, she's 87 & he'll  be 88 in 2 days. We all had the lobster which was delicious. On the way home I donated another $20 to the casino fund.  

23 October - At Sea

People seemed a bit lethargic this morning, late to breakfast and very few in the deck chairs early. For most, yesterday was a big day in the heat and rather grotty conditions.  But everyone I spoke to loved Cochin despite the conditions.  Those who left the ship in Dubai for a side trip to the Taj Mahal arrived back safely just before we sailed last night.

Not a lot to report today - there was a port lecture on Singapore and as we haven't been there for a few years I thought it a good idea to go along.  Mahjong as usual, we're all enjoying that very much. 

There are many things to do on the ship, eg art auctions, all kinds of dancing classes, choir practice, trivia, bingo, lectures, wine tastings, films, carpet bowls, health seminars, bridge, board games, ten pin bowling, table tennis, knitters & Knatters, casino games etc, then at night discos, vocal entertainment.  All these things to get us ready for the nursing home LOL.  Not sure how many go to all these activities but I do know that the trivia is popular. Have watched them and they are like locusts grabbing for tables and chairs!

After lunch I sat on the balcony reading and watching the coastline of Sri Lanka - with binoculars it was possible to see what looked like a very large city, possibly a resort.  Quite a number of ships in the area, too, all cargo of course.  

Then tonight we dined with Patti & Gaylord again before going to the show which was a tribute act, the Elton John Experience.  This guy, Greg Andrew, appeared on stage looking just like EJ, blue sparkly outfit, big sunglasses etc and sang two songs.  He then spoke with an Australian accent & turns out he is from Brisbane.  He should have left the outfit at home and just played the piano! 

We are now in the Indian Ocean with two more sea days before reaching Phuket.  

22 October - Cochin, India

Approaching Cochin this morning I saw probably a dozen dolphin from the balcony.  They looked lethargic, just poking their heads out of the water then skimming along below the surface. They were obviously unaware we could see them from high up!!!  

By the time we had docked there were many local stalls already erected dockside ready to sell us some stuff we just can't do without!!!! 

Our tour bus left at 9am and there were 16 of us - heading to the canals, or Backwaters,  The 'Venice' of India.  Well, canals they are but Venice it's not!!!!! Having said that, we did have a good day.  We were taken on to a houseboat which had seating for all of us - these boats are usually privately owned and have 2 ensuite bedrooms, a lounging area and a kitchen.  Two chefs were there to make lunch for us - curry, chicken, salads, etc, fresh pineapple and soft drinks.  Many people live along these waters in very primitave conditions and several women were standing in knee deep water washing their clothes as we passed by.  One lady was washing her hair and some kids were swimming - not sure what else they do in the water but it certainly wouldn't be a place to swim!!! There are also some very lovely houses, too. 

The drive back to Cochin took nearly two hours and it was probably just as well I slept most of the way as apparently the traffic conditions were horrendous!  How well do I remember a similar drive from Agra to Delhi 36 years ago!!!! In Cochin we were shown the famous Chinese nets,and the oldest European church in India!  It was formerly a Catholic church, then became Protestant and is now an Anglican church.  It was built in 1503 and has had many facelifts since then.  The Portugese navigator Vasco da Gama was buried there and there is a tribute to him in the church but his remains were taken back to Lisbon 14 years after his death.  

India would have to be one of the dirtiest countries on earth - such a shame as the countryside

is lush and beautiful.  But there is no law on litter - it is everywhere!  And there are open pits along the roadside, the waterways are dirty and disgusting, powerlines hang all over the place, men were urinating wherever, and the traffic was a nightmare.  But in spite of this everyone appeared happy, clean and friendly and I reckon that if they put 1 million of the 35 million people in this state of Kerala on a 'clean up' campaign Cochin would be up there with other beautiful cities of the world.  

We checked out the stalls dockside before boarding the ship and made a few small purchases.  

Was lovely to have a shower then wave goodbye from the balcony.  Dinner with a couple from Cornwall before doing a 'slow-gear' through the casino where we found a blackjack tournament!  In for a penny........... yes, now have our names on the board (at the moment) but the final isn't for 4 days!!!  

At Sea - 21 October

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Another day, and all we can see is sea!!!!  I did glimpse two small birds following the ship but no whales yet!  Early this morning we entered into the Laccadive Sea which is a body of water bordering India, the Maldives and Sri Lanka.  This warm sea has a stable water temperature year round and is very rich in marine life , with the Gulf of Mannar alone hosting about 3,600 species.  Trivandrum, Colombo, Quilon and Male are the major cities on the shore of the Laccadive Sea. 

Went to a port lecture on Phuket then played mahjong before lunch.  After that there was a talk on Prince Charles, Camilla & Diana - we've all heard the story so far but it just reinforced all the issues they had and how complicated Charles's love life was.  Also how fragile Diana was.  

I decided to walk back through the casino just in time to enter in the second last game of a roulette challenge.  You pay $10 and they give you $100 worth of chips and have five spins.  You must place at least $20 on each spin.  Well, at the end of the challenges George was on top of the list & I was third!  So six of us played off and a guy won $250.  We were all given a t-shirt, key chain and a couple of vouchers.  

It was lovely reading on the balcony later this afternoon until George came out and sat there for a while.  Turns out he was there longer than expected as he locked us out again.  😡😹 Fortunately we didn't have to shout too loud as the guy next door came out on his balcony (after the fellow two doors up had called security!!!!!) and G was able to hand over his door key & have him come in our room & open the door!!!!!

This is definitely a seniors cruise. 

Dinner was nice, shared a table with a couple from Caboolture, QLD. 

Back in our room to discover we had a problem with the sink - had to get the plumber here to fix it.  

20 October -At Sea

Today we have been cruising in the Arabian Sea, at noon we were still 1,000 miles from our next port, Cochin, India, with Mumbai on the port side.  The flying 🐟 were in abundance this morning, they were probably churned up in the wake of the ship.  Apparently there are many whales in this area but so far most are still sitting around  poolside!! Went to the lecture on Cochin, India, our next port and we're told it will probably rain on and off as is still the monsoon season.  Cochin is the second largest city in the state of Kerala and is considered to be the Venice of India - I will be able to clarify that after our excursion on a houseboat on the canals!  It is also the main area for pepper and the trade for pepper was brought about by the Jews centuries ago and of course the Dutch more recently.  Kerala State is about the size of Switzerland and has a population of 35 million!!!  

I decided to see a movie this afternoon - Absolutely Fabulous was showing in the Princess theatre.  Was a bit of fun, light entertainment.  

We dined early as had the Captain's Cocktail party at 7.45. We were in the last batch (Platinum & Elite) of three such events as there are so many repeat travellers now.  One  couple from QLD won a prize for having the most cruise days 1,200!!!! Obviously they don't follow AFL or whatever!! The usual fairly weak cocktails were served, some required more than that but we know from experience what the deal is.  We have a new captain on board, a nice Scottish man who resides in Colorado.  One of the ship's officers has his wife and little girl on board - she is 2 1/2 and named Sofia and is nearly as cute as our Chloe!!!!! 

Now back in our room and it is only  8.30 so think I will go to the late show to hear a singer called Sean O'Shea - might get a few rousing Irish numbers!!! 

Later......

Well, I went alone to the show and Sean Michael Patrick O'Shea turned out to be a fantastic entertainer from Canada and didn't sing one Irish song!  He fooled around a lot with impersonations but had a marvellous voice when he sang Dean Martin, FrankSinatra, Pavarotti, Tom Jones, Neil Diamond and Elvis numbers.  

19 October - At Sea

Was good to have a sleep-in this morning, the clocks had been put forward overnight.  It was back to mahjong for me, a lot of chat about what we had all done in Dubai over the last two days.  

 At around 11.15 the captain announced that we had another very sick passenger on board who would need to be airlifted off the ship and a helicopter was being sent from Oman, arriving within the next hour or so. Passengers were instructed to stay off the top decks and not to use balconies on the port side.  We are on the port side. Straight after we finished the game I came back to the cabin to drop off the mahjong tiles before going to lunch - I arrived to see the helicopter within metres of our balcony, the doors and windows were shaking and the deck chairs rattling and the noise was deafening.  It circled again then came back and I was able to video it from inside.  Definitely couldn't have opened a door or would have been blown to bits. Never a dull moment on Princess!!!

So after lunch I joined a line to face the Indian immigration officers, ensuring we all had the correct documentation and visas for our upcoming visit to Cochin in three days.  The visa thing has nearly caused a mutiny on the ship - some passengers have been given the run-around about the need for visas and others have been forced to pay hundreds of dollars - some people don't even want to get off the ship and never intended to and it will be interesting if all those who are going to 'sue' (not us!!!)  will do so.  

Then I met George for a cocktail at happy hour and when I told him I had footage of the helicopter from our cabin he told me I must have been dreaming or in someone else's cabin.  Took quite some time to convince him that we were just there at different times.  Apparently his footage was from the balcony & I can't imagine how he was able to remain safe.  

Enough for today!!!  

18 October - Dubai

Another day in Dubai and we shared a taxi to the Dubai Mall with Dale and John from Bendigo.  We really didn't go there to shop, more to escape the heat as the Malls are so nicely airconditioned.  And it is amazing just people watching!!! Dale & I checked out some shops while the men sorted out their internet (some took all day for that) then we met up for a coffee.  Then it was bliss!!  2 1/2 hours to myself, looking in windows as couldn't afford to go beyond the windows LOL 😂 but I did find another Marks & Spencer so felt quite at home there!!!!  Think in my next life I might go back to my roots and find a rich Arab - I think I would look good in the full regalia and I could hide all the bulges that way and still gather a few jewels!!!

We did have a fun day though, and picked up some bits and pieces on our way home.  It was lovely to facetime with Jane and Chloe and with Caroline and to touch base with and reply to some friends via email.  I did try to speak to Diana, knocked but no-one home!! 

Now back at the ship enjoying a G & T in our room.  We should be sailing soon.  Then I guess the next thing will be dinner....!

By the way, we ran into Dot in the terminal and guess what!!! Their luggage has been delivered to Perth.  She apparently was, however, lucky enough to find some knickers in Dubai!  I hope British Airways offer them a first class round the world ticket as compensation for all this.  

I think only two passengers were late back to the ship - the Cruise Director had a dig at them after the late show but I doubt they were even in the audience.  The guest artist was Claude Eric - an old crooner from Montreal and very sleep inducing!  After departure we'll  be retracing our track in the Strait of Hormuz.   

Below are pics of beautiful arrangements - 1. How they celebrate a baby boy, 2. A baby girl, 3 an arrangement of chocolates, and 4 a Japanese biscuit extravaganza!!!!