I have much to do today as Queen Victoria continues ploughing eastward through another 50 shades of grey turbulent Atlantic. Tomorrow evening, we enter U.K. waters.
I have arranged to be coached as far as Knutsford Services on Friday. However, the last twenty five miles to Buxton could prove problematic. But I now learn that we shall all be checked for Coronavirus before leaving the ship. That means my local taxi firm will be able to collect me from the coach drop-off point. Now to continue the packing.
During whist today, I thought I might receive applause for the highest score. But, the last two hands were abysmal; it was somebody else’s turn to walk tall with a sky high tally.
Some days ago, well over a week, I was advised by my friend and neighour to sign up for on-line shopping in view of a possible lock-down of the UK. I did try, and so did a good acquaintance on board. So far, no luck.
The atmosphere on board is holding up remarkably well, although many will be ready to leave on their chosen day at the end of the week. My enthusiasm for the final Captain’s final cocktail party has, for me, evaporated as I jig-saw my clothing and souvenirs into not enough space in an attempt to avoid a last minute panic before leaving the ship on Friday. I have made a reasonable start on the packing, with hopefully, very little to do on Thursday night of the last day.
Apparently, before we leave the ship, we shall all be screened for coronavirus, which means that taxi companies will, or should pick up passengers. I hope that is the case.
The voyage really is drawing to a close as perhaps 1500 passengers head for an uncertain future. Coronavirus has become a global crisis of catastrophic consequence, and unfortunately, it was right that our prime minister has introduced draconian regulations for all of us. Perhaps, he may be remembered for stopping Coronavirus in its tracks, and the world can build up to normality sooner rather than later. When we departed from Southampton to that splendid firework display, I just figured that we would return at the end of March anticipating the next cruise or whatever. My grand finale, another train/ship/air tour around the world was all in hand, hotels booked, best seats on the trains secured, and a Business Class flight home from Tokyo “in the bag.”
I want to mention again my table companions who welcomed me shortly after the start of the voyage, and those I started this incredible journey with. (Continued 08.30 hrs Wednesday 25th March) On that first table in the Britannia Restaurant, Robin, Lisa and Sarah (who joined later in the cruise), June, Margaret, Maggie, Peter and Liz. Although I relocated to join people I knew from a previous voyage, I still got to enjoy all your company and throughout the voyage. And Table 357, Aiden & Jose, Viv and Ginnie, Brian and Kate, Janet, and, of course, travelling companion, Jo. Both were brilliant tables to dine at, throughout this what has to be, unique voyage.
Most of us are leaving the ship on Friday, the day after its scheduled noon arrival at Southampton. Thanks for reading, David.
David's Cruise 