At Sea, February 23, 2011

At present, we are at sea sailing along the east coast of Australia.   The sea is not rough because we are between the continent and the Great Barrier Reef.  It rained heavily today – the first time since the voyage began.  So far we have been blessed with perfect weather.  Today is day 49 of the trip.  In six more days, we will reach the half way mark.  I can’t believe how quickly the time is going.

Yesterday, we heard the terrible news about the earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand.  We were visiting that city about a week ago.  Our guardian angels must have been looking after us to have this happen after we left.   I feel so sorry for those poor people.   A lot of us were visiting the beautiful church which was destroyed.  This could just as easily have happened the day we were there.

Our departure from Sydney was celebrated with a big party.  We left there around 2:30 p.m. The C E O of the Holland Lines and his wife came  aboard for a couple of days - -  only until we reach the next port -- so a big party was given as we sailed away. The wine and champagne was free of charge and finger food was also in abundance. A brass band from Sydney was aboard to serenade us as we left. This company sure knows how to give a good party.

Until the C.E.O. leaves everything is celebrated in style.  Yesterday evening we had our eighth formal evening and before diner all were invited to the Queen’s Lounge to be introduced to him and his wife and this was followed by free drinks, hors d’oeuvres and dancing.   An elegant and delicious diner followed with complimentary wine. 

Today at mid afternoon, the C.E.O. gave a talk which gave us an overview of the Holland America Company and its plans for the future.  This was followed by a question period.  The topic came up about the situation in Egypt and the Suez Canal.  He assured us that at present unless the situation changes, we will pass through the Suez Canal.  He also said that it is quite possible that the tours we have booked in Egypt will take place, but that they are monitoring the situation carefully and that the safety of the passengers is of prime importance.  People were concerned with our safety while passing through that region, but we were told that there are many ships from many nations in these waters at all times and that they belong to an organization which binds them to come to each other’s aid if necessary.  The captain is constantly in touch with this organization and safety is of prime importance.

I believe I mentioned that I was going to change tables again for the diner seating when we reached Sydney.  I am now at a table with six other people – 2 couples from Canada and 2 single ladies from the U.S.  So far so good ! ! !   With 2 men at the table, the conversation is more interesting.  One of the men is very interested in History and is quite knowledgeable.  One of the American women is a singer and she performed opera in her home town.  I’ve only been there twice so far and the first time, three persons were missing, so I can’t tell you much more about them yet.  More to come later.

Tonight, instead of diner in the dining room, there is a big Australian Bar B Q in the Lido Grill on the 8th floor.  The staff has been busy for two days preparing and decorating.  I’m looking forward to that and will write about it next time.