Day 102 at sea between Dubai and Aqaba.

There is something unreal about waking up from an average sleep, reaching for the TV remote control device and tuning into an episode of “Coronation Street”. On board television, back in the day, was never really satisfactory. Channels would fade in and out as the ship progressed through distant satellite catchment areas. What a surprise, therefore when for most of the time, on board versions of ITV and BBC offered clear broadcasts. I never intended to keep up with “CorrIe” somewhere in the Arabian Sea!

We are now into the final sector of the QM2 World Voyage 2018, and are at sea for the second of six days. I enjoy these periods of not calling anywhere. The zenith of this four month oddysey is our visit to the Lost City of Petra when we dock at Aqaba 5 days from now, at 7am. The tour lecturer has warned of arduous walking in very hot conditions. Even with a knee injury, I don’t feel too worried.

Day 103

Last night, at dinner, I was told the sad news that my (and many other people’s) friend, Richard C. Faber Jnr. had passed away unexpectedly. For a number of years, I would purchase ocean liner memorabilia from him on his eBay website. Eventually, we would meet up on several transatlantic crossings on QM2 and latterly in London and New York. I have much at home to remember him by. I shall leave this blog unillustrated.

Many thanks for reading.

David.