Day 69 “Cheers from The Channel”

Day 69 of 69. This is it, the final full day before venturing back to “unsettled normality” tomorrow. Outside, as we steam eastwards towards the port of Southampton, one could be forgiven for thinking we were somewhere in the Caribbean. It is surprisingly hot out on Deck 9. But, as always on the last day, there’s always so much to take care of. And, posting a load of stuff to home from Greenock was an inspiration. I have almost finished packing and feel more confident that I am not short of capacity. However, lugging this lot between train and taxi at Southampton, Macclesfield and Buxton will be something of a challenge.

I shall be sad, obviously, to give up my nice cabin starboard aft on Deck 8 affording lovely views through a glass fronted balcony wall. And tomorrow, I shall look back, longingly at Queen Elizabeth, my home for the last seven weeks. In just over a year’s time, I should be back as part of a “world tour.” I shall miss my table companions who now are Glenis, Denise, Erma, Bob and wife Frances, Colin, and Steve. All except Steve assembled for our final dinner in the Britannia Restaurant at our table of 7 weeks, No. 363. Erma Glenis Denise and I assembled for pre dinner drinks one last time in the Commodore Club.

I won’t miss the ghastly parade of “repeats” on ITV Choice, available on board ship and via Cable to all weird parts of the world!

There were hand-shakes and hugs plus a smattering of kisses as we all bade farewell. For the first time, I felt quite emotional. The voyage was phenomenal; I had anticipated it with excitement and pleasure. This time tomorrow, I shall be in my own bed in Buxton, for the first time since May 29th.

I took one final tour of an almost deserted ship, finishing up in the Yacht Club where the band played to a full dance floor, (for the umpteenth and last time) “Rocking All over The World, plus an encore, “Twist and Shout.”

The music faded as I walked the full length of deck 8 one last time, to find my luggage had been taken from outside my stateroom, for collection at the terminal.

Below, the final images of this incredible and unique voyage.