Sometime after 11 o’clock last night, we left the port of Aqaba to head south towards the main body of the Red Sea before heading north towards the Gulf of Suez, and our eventual transit of the Suez Canal. I didn’t mention in yesterday’s blog, that it was unusually cool in Jordon, particularly as we headed into the hills and Wadi Rum. In fact, the weather was most pleasant, as it is today as we steam up what I refer to as the “left hand arm” of the Red Sea. Shorts and tee-shirts are still possible on this fine sunny day.
I found yesterday’s activities a little exhausting, opting for a disgustingly long sleep-in this morning. Now, I am well rested and content. Land on the port side is close and curiosity provoking. I really ought to ascertain the fascinating countries we are sailing by. Last night, across the water from Aqaba, Israel was as close as Stockport is to Disley. Egypt, also not too far way and Saudi Arabia also border Jordon. The land I am looking at right now is Egypt, possibly an island. In fact, we are heading towards the Gulf of Suez. At 8pm, we shall anchor as administration is carried out to permit transit of the Suez Canal. I doubt that I shall be up at 5am to witness the entire ten hour passage. Graham, the port lecturer will give a running commentary, surely not from the early hours!
Tonight, after a “gala” dinner, formerly known as a formal night, dinner was followed by a spectacular Egyptian Ball in The Queens Room. By now, we were anchored outside the entrance to the Canal. The cruise ship Costa Victoria which we passed earlier today had caught up at around 11pm and I watched as it crossed close to our stern as she positioned herself near by.
I attended the Egyptian Ball but didn’t attempt to take part on the dance floor. I sat with Vicky until she decided it was time to retire for the night. I enjoyed the band who performed formal dance arrangements of well known pop songs. The floor filled to fox trots, quicksteps, and a brilliant instrumental version of Nights in White Satin set as a Viennese Waltz. I came away to take photographs from our ship, now anchored in preparation for tomorrow’s Suez Canal transit. I have done this twice before, but will try to savour each moment, not knowing if I will do this maybe one more time in the future. Again, the last pictures have appeared first. They should be self explanatory. The pictures are all mixed up! The “day shots” were taken as we headed north towards the Gulf of Suez. From both sides of QM2, Egypt was clearly visible, with shipping and oil industry apparent. The cruise ship Costa Victoria was overtaken late in the afternoon, after its head start from Aqaba. It caught up with us at the entrance to the Canal late last night. This should explain the pictures below.
Thanks for reading,
David.
David's Cruise 