Almost there.

Today marks the end of our third long period at sea. Firstly, there were eight days between Tenerife and Namibia, four between Port Elizabeth and Reunion and a further seven between Mauritius and Fremantle. Thankfully, my medical issues which “took out” over three days of the last seven sea days are resolved and I am once again enjoying this remarkable voyage. Tomorrow, we arrive at Fremantle. This is the start of almost 5 weeks cruising around Australia and New Zealand, and I shall avail myself of the shore excursions at most ports of call in order to maximise the limited time available. Next year, I should have the opportunity for more “on my own exploration” on a return visit in February, reaching Sydney on the Queen Victoria and “winging it to my heart’s content”, thereafter. The Parade of Chefs, Britannia Restaurant second sitting, Sat. 10 Feb. 2018. Today is bright, windy on the outside decks with slightly choppy seas; Force 5 with 2 metre waves. I attended the Captain’s church service this morning. It wasn’t too bad, The Captain brought interest to this maritime Act of Worship, as he does when he addresses his “guests” at noon each day. Collated, these noon day addresses would make a worthwhile, informative and fascinating read. I am now away from home longer than at any other time in my life. There remains a further three months! This reality can feel, occasionally, quite daunting, especially at night. But, fortunately, this is very infrequent. Last night, I watched the new film “Murder on the Orient Express”, a superb all star cast re-make. My only criticism was the train’s unrealistically short formation. Although filmed, already, many times, this was a worthwhile and enjoyable re-working. Earlier in this seven day crossing, I had entered a number of what I thought were worthy photographs taken during the Garden Route Safari overland tour, in an on board photography competition. I went down to the photo shop to see that my efforts pailed into insignificance alongside the commendable creative efforts of other competitors. I won’t give up; opportunities in Australia and New Zealand abound! More writings soon. For some reason, I am finding it less easy to keep the journal up to date; notes being abbreviated to be expanded upon at a later date. More from Down Under soon! David