David's Cruise

Isn’t life miraculous!  Again this morning, I was awake fairly early. It was (and is) Wednesday. Moments before 08.00 hrs, PMQs (Prime Minister’s Questions) was just about to begin on the BBC World Service.  All of a sudden, it was like being back at home, watching the leaders of the two main Parties “battle it out.”   To be able to watch live events thousands of miles away surely is miraculous. I felt too groggy to be able to really work out who came out on top this week. Politics can be a dangerous territory in the confines of an ocean liner! 

That it’s somewhat cloudy this morning doesn’t really matter.  The mid 70s Fahrenheit prevail.  Later this morning, I shall take a shore excursion by coach to the Sunbury Tea Plantation, to be shown around, and served afternoon tea.  Shore excursions can either be irksome or highly enjoyable. But they do offer an efficient way of exploring somewhere in a relatively short time span.

M.S. (or M.V., I’m not sure which!) Queen Victoria eventually berthed last night almost opposite Queen Mary 2. 

One of the Tui Marella Explorer, ships, Explorer 2 came in this morning and is now safely berthed in front of QM2. (Pictures to follow)

We have to be back on board tonight by 18.00 hrs. This really is the start of the Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean. I have derived much  pleasure from seeing the comings and goings of cruise ships in Bridgetown, Barbados. Covid restrictions feel more restrictive right now; face masks are worn in the street and temperature checks seem to be everywhere. 

The shore excursion to the Sunbury Tea Plantation house and grounds was very much well worth joining.  We were taken around much of the island, if I remember rightly, 28 miles long by 14 miles across.  The tour guide imparted much information throughout the drive, without being irritating. Those on this trip (but not me) appreciated her “tourist humour,” which thankfully was just enough!

I shall describe the visit to the Sunbury Tea Plantation House in the next blog.

Many thanks for reading, David, Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, Barbados, 26/1/22.

Another weird title, another strange shore excursion, except, this is the first on this voyage.

I have always been intrigued by the tourist submarines which I presume are fairly commonplace in these perpetually warm climes. I had swapped a more conventional coach tour across the island for one of these shorter but fascinating experiences, which, being in a submarine, did generate a misgiving or two. The brochure promised 50 minutes, diving to up to 150ft. I think we got slightly less on both grounds; the tour guide told us that the submarine experience would be 40 – 45 minutes.

I’m guessing around 25 of us piled into a smallish vehicle at the ship, another taking us to the Atlantis Terminal, where we would board a transfer boat to the submarine. Soon, we were seated facing our chosen portholes, looking out on to nothing but turquoise. Soon, we were diving in this craft whose interior resembled a small aeroplane. We dived to the seabed which, if I am not mistaken was around 150 below the surface. To begin with, there was little to see. Then, the wreck of modern-ish vessel came into view. Research may determine the history of the wreck. I have never seen anything like it! We later ventured to coral reefs, not particularly colourful, but, teeming with sea life. I can understand the attraction of snorkeling! I don’t really know what I was looking at, but this short period of journeying along a sea floor was beyond amazing.

I am back at the Cruise Terminal where the WiFi is very good. Below are further pictures taken a few days ago.

Just a handful of images taken during the last seven days.

Many thanks for reading, David, The Cruise Terminal, Bridgetown, Barbados. 14.22hrs

Tuesday 18th January 2022

Before I start telling you all what a superb day our first of seven at sea between Lisbon and Bridgetown, Barbados has, so far, turned out to be (10.44 hrs GMT), here are the are the photos promised in Blog 696 illustrating last night’s moonlit departure from Lisbon.

My first time in Portugal’s capital was way back in 1983, long before my tuk tuk driver was born! This was before the days of the Channel Tunnel. I had treated myself to a trip on the Venice Simplon Orient Express, as far as Paris within its first two years of operation. I got to meet the first private owner of Flying Scotsman, these days marketed as the world’s most famous steam locomotive. Alan Pegler came across as refined but modest, and warm in manner. 39 years later, both Flying Scotsman and the Orient Express continue to turn heads! I stayed overnight in Paris, travelling the following morning on a much more ordinary train, The Sud (overnight)Express to Lisbon, where I treated myself to a night at The Lisbon Sheraton Hotel. Then, I was 34, with tons of out of control black hair. (I did brush it before dinner on the Orient Express!) Today, I portray myself as a proud, sometimes grumpy pensioner. But I can’t be grumpy today. The promised lousy weather did not materialise and outside, the sun shines and the sea almost smooth. Seven days of this is a magnificent prospect, despite the Captain’s persistent forecast of a couple of days of not so good weather. Walking around the Boat Deck, not a deck chair was to be had on the “sunny side” of the ship. The other side was far less inviting and you could take your choice of where to sit or lie down.

Back in 2016, when QM2 had been “Remastered,” I purchased a very nice Citizen radio controlled watch, solar powered and as accurate as the signals it receives from various radio masts. Although shown many times, only today do I now know how to change the hour without messing the whole thing up. Being on board ship, we are far away from the reach of any radio masts. Theoretically, on land, in most parts of the world, the watch should adjust automatically. This has never happened yet! Tonight, for the first time on this voyage, the clocks retard one hour. I expect theee further such adjustments before arrival at Bridgetown, Barbados.

I have set myself a target, 300,000 steps during the 28 night voyage. That is 10,714 steps 🚶‍♂️ each day. So far, I am ahead of target. I have just finished a late breakfast of porridge and a cup of tea. Time for walkies!

I had completed a light breakfast, just porridge and a cup of tea before taking in the nice warm climes of where we are right now. At noon, Captain Hall announced that we had sailed 299 nautical miles since leaving Lisbon, steaming at a rate of some 16 – 17 knots. He also announced that the island of Granada would replace our call at St Lucia. This seems to have been well received. Before long, I shall choose which shore excursions to book in order to make the best use of my time on this rare voyage.

After the “refresher” on how to adjust my watch, I headed for the Britannia Restaurant where, at a nice window seat, I joined three couples for an excellent (but not stupidly massive) lunch. I chose a soup which was somewhat rich, but delicious. An excellent (what we would call at home) lamb casserole was the main course, followed by two sensible scoops of what I am assured was sugar free, vanilla ice cream.

So far, I cannot fault the voyage, service, cuisine, entertainment and everything else I have experienced and enjoyed. Now, for some more rays and walking. (14.27hrs)

The covid restrictions do not detract, except possibly for those who are keen dancers.

Intermittent Internet quality dictates when is best to post any blogs.

Thanks for reading, David, 16.42 Day 6/29, Tuesday January 18, 2022. Posted 25/1/22, Bridgetown, Barbados.

I was in no hurry to disembark today; I have become comfortable in my cosy cabin on Deck 12 with all that I could want just yards away. However, I couldn’t help feeling that I owed it to myself to, at least, set foot on Portuguese soil, avail myself of the free shuttle bus and explore as I chose to. After lunch, I called cruise friend in England who was very curious about, among other things, what it was like on board QM2 mid pandemic.

This was my first visit to a capital city since the first lock-down of 2020, and first major city since a brief family trip to Lancaster. I am glad I made the effort. I enjoyed soup, caesar salad and a small decaff latte in a lovely boutique eatery, the Figus Restaurant & Tapas Bar, right in the centre of town.

Outside, in the square, whose name I cannot remember, I was offered a quick tour of the city in a tuk-tuk, like those which whiz around in the Far East. This was perfect and although just over an hour, I was shown so much and came away hoping the same tour guide would be able to take me on a longer more relaxed trip on my next visit. I felt that I got the very best out of my brief stay in Portugal’s capital. Many thanks Diana.

I am back on board now, with seven days crossing the Atlantic to Barbados to look forward to. The clear winter’s day here was gorgeous with just a hint of chill in the air. The Captain announced a further three days of not very good weather, before we would come into the warmer climes one associates with the Caribbean. I doubt it will be as bad as the crossing to Bermuda in 2020.

At approximately 18.00 hrs, QM2 gently eased from where she had been berthed, making a spectacular 180 degree turn as the night sky darkened and a full moon reflected off the River Tagus. Soon, we were heading towards the Atlantic Ocean, under the April 24th Bridge which carries both road and rail traffic across the River Tagus. Further pictures will appear in my next blog.

Many thanks for reading, David, 09.36hrs 18/1/22, Day 6/29.

Last night was another pleasant evening in “out of sync summer.”  As usual, I made my way down to dinner in the Britannia Restaurant where the now expected excellent dinner was served.  I have to say that I do like this new arrangement of open dining between 7.45 and 9 pm, meeting new people most nights while also being joined by those met earlier. 

“Forever Tenors” delivered a second and final show before they leave the ship at Barbados, I would think, for further similar engagements.  Their singing and stage presence was superb, their dialogue between songs, still tedious and irritating, although judging by the warm reaction of the audience, perhaps it is I who needs to get a sense of humour implant!

Amethyst performing poolside at the stern end of Deck 8, had a full dance floor under the stars. Although “on my own,” I was able to derive pleasure from this mid January phenomenon of outdoor leisure as the next day approached.  I was far from the only one just “looking on.”  But I did hanker after my younger less mature and responsible days somewhat.

I went to bed late, endured another repertoire of weird dreams, but awoke at a respectable hour.  Today, Dr Stephen Payne delivers his final lecture,  “Genesis of a Queen, QueenMary 2,” which will  attract a full house.  I have seen similar presentations before, all slightly different.  Outside, a Force 3 north easterly breeze continues, as do the slight seas and air temperature of 74 degrees Fahrenheit.   Maybe the chart hasn’t been updated.

It’s just after 9 am.  Time for breakfast and walkies.  (13.22 hrs, during a late lunch in the Britannia Restaurant.)   For the first time on this voyage, I completed six laps of Deck 7 before breakfast and then taking my seat for Stephen Payne’s historic lecture.  All his lectures on this voyage were worthy of a much wider audience than can be achieved on a passenger liner.  Clear, well laid out and lavishly illustrated, and an enormous privilege to be at, GENESIS OF A QUEEN “Queen Mary 2” was presented by its creator, on board Queen Mary 2.

Lunch today consisted of a curry/vegetable soup, followed by roast lamb, and the fruit plate.  I was ready for something to eat after a breakfast of just oatmeal and banana. This afternoon, on the recommendation of Joan and Jack, I am attending  a second presentation in the Royal Court Theatre, “HUMAN PLANET,” given by British T.V. Producer and Director, Dale Templar. The pre-lecture slide show promises something of great interest in the next forty-five minutes. It has become dull outside, but probably its still nice and toasty out on deck.  Dale Templar’s presentation of, and stories relating to clips from the TV series “Human Planet” was spectacular, and thought provoking.  Cunard still does extremely well engaging these phenomenally interesting guest speakers.

This is the last of seven sea days, and while exciting new (to me) destinations are anticipated over the next seven days, including two in Barbados, I am slightly sad that this run of sea days is drawing to a close. (16.23 hrs in the Britannia Restaurant for Afternoon Tea)  The Queen’s Room is, once again, set up for the pre-Barbados administration of optional Lateral Flow Tests. These are mandatory if exploring independently. One’s own tests are not valid, although I did take one in my room, as well as the Cunard Lateral Flow Test to confirm that I remain unaffected by the continuing pandemic.  If the QM2 bongs precede my name over the ship’s P.A. system, I’m in trouble!   It’s 17.46 hrs right now.  Time for some pre-dinner walking.

07.47 hrs, Tuesday 25th January,  Bridgetown, Barbados.

Yesterday, I completed at least 12 laps of the Boat Deck in an effort to negate the excess of things like afternoon tea. Although only equivalent to 4.4 miles, I did feel a sense of achievement having walked much further inside the ship.  The warm, but not oppressive weather more or less throughout, has been therapeutic.  This morning, mainly because of the maritime version of jetlag, I was up shortly after 6am, feeling refreshed from a reasonable sleep.  I had a job to stay awake through the show last night, which I chose to attend, despite being an event I wouldn’t dream of goiing to, or watching on T.V. at home. Yes, the juggling was mind-blowing, but the show, loud and tedious.  The audience, on the other hand, lapped it up and gave a standing ovation at the end. 

Our seven consecutive sea days are over, and we are berthed for two full days in Bridgetown.  Mid-morning, I will experience going down in a tourist submarine, something that was almost frowned upon by a fellow passenger who asked me of my plans for the day!  Actually, she has a point! If one of the passengers on this or any trip proves positive for covid-19, the rest of us will be forced into self isolation.  Probably not my wisest decision!  There should be some good photos!

Finally, now we are at Barbados, there should be the opportunity to post the illustrated blogs written during our call at Lisbon.  So we shall “jump back a week for two blogs, 696 and 697.

Many thanks for reading

David 08 14 hrs GMT -4. Enjoy your lunch!

As you may have guessed by the ridiculous heading, it’s Sunday.  We are gathered together in the presence of Almighty God, in this case, in the Royal Court Theatre, this morning, re-purposed appropriately as a place of worship. There are a couple of “things” where worship on a Cunard liner scores over present day Anglican services. Much of the “maritime liturgy” is taken from the Book of Common Prayer, and even if this old fashioned English doesn’t sit well with some present day clergy and progressive “church management,” I am somewhat happy that the prayers (even if only recited) of my not-enough mis-spent youth are still recited (or prayed communally) on board ship as normal regular practice. No instructions not to film or record, prior to the service, nor further requests to vacate the Royal Court almost immediately afterwards are broadcast. Has the Book of Common Prayer, etc., copyright expired?

Nice blue skies, fluffy white clouds, a gentle sea, an F3 north easterly breeze and ever increasing temperatures are the welcome order of the day. For the first time this voyage, I took breakfast in the main restaurant where whatever you order is brought quickly to your assigned table.

Yesterday, walking was a struggle, although eventually, I did exceed my 10,000 steps target by a decent margin. Last night, I slept much better, even if I drifted into incomprehensible nightmares through the night! At around 1am, the QM2 “bongs” woke me from a pleasant slumber. From the coded message, I understood there to be some kind of emergency in the G32 Nightclub. It’s a very long time since I have been in there.

11.04hrs and the day is “quite young.” I’m in shorts and polo shirt for the first time. The non-sunny side of the ship is now warm enough to enjoy relaxing in a traditional (but well padded) steamer chair. We are just 18 degrees North of the Equator, not a bad spot for mid January!

SUNDAY AFTERNOON 16.05 hrs.

Again, deck walking is a bit of an effort. But, I am no way complaining about the heat. Ontario, Canada comes to terms with temperatures in the minus twenties, Buxton feels little better at zero, and here, living what was, not so long ago, “the dream,” glorious sunshine, attracts the sun worshippers in their droves, onto the open decks.

I tried the King’s Court eatery for lunch, but seemingly, many had the same idea, and once again, I chose to be taken care of in the Britannia Restaurant, which also was fairly busy. My assigned table was very close to that of the Ship’s Designer, but I felt that he may have wanted to enjoy his lunch without unnecessary disturbance.

I skipped Afternoon Tea in the Queen’s Room today, and chose not to have a bread roll with my soup at lunch time. The term “too little, too late” springs to mind when I see my still (slightly) triangular profile reflected in the King’s Court windows as I walk by. Sunset is around 18.15 and may be quite spectacular. Hopefully, I will remember to look out for it on my rambles around the open decks. I did succumb to the temptation of around 20 minutes’ sunbathing, after having dabbed on an appropriate amount of sunblock. (17.23 hrs)

Just four people including me turned up at the Observation Deck, forward on Deck 11 to witness the sunset, which, so far south, is quite rapid. It was nice to watch, but not spectacular. However, I did take a couple of fairly worthwhile pictures which I shall post later.

But it’s now just after 7pm, and time to change for dinner. The tuxedo can stay in the wardrobe for a few more days. Many thanks for reading, David, in his stateroom on Deck 12, 19.30 hrs, GMT -3.

(Saturday 22/1/22, 13.00hrs approx)   We continue our gentle progress southwest towards Bridgetown, Barbados where we arrive at 07.00 hrs, onTuesday.  With a degree of justified optimism, I consulted the Navigational Channel for an instant update on conditions.  Although only 22 degrees North, the temperature was back to 19 degrees Celsius with a F3 north easterly breeze. The sea was, and remains slight, and the weather outlook, overcast with showers. I remained optimistic, but my shorts and t-shirt remained in the wardrobe.  The enclosed swimming area on 12 deck is just a few steps away from my stateroom and I was quickly able to ascertain that, outside, rain was lashing down, turbocharged from leadened skies – just like home, but presumably warmer.

Last night, I joined new table companions Marion and Terry, along with Beverly and Bob (from Bolton), and Rita, making up a table of six for dinner.  We had all (as invited to) donned our various finery, and the ship took on that select ambiance envisaged by Cunard.  It is admirable that, under the Carnival Corporation, Cunard maintains the tradition of dressing for dinner, as well as all the social activity from 6 o’clock and after dinner.  I went with Bob and Beverly to the Showtime in the Royal Court Theatre at 10 o’clock, high up in the side balcony from where a superb view is to be had.  It was hot up there, and being required to keep one’s mask on, it was rather uncomfortable.  However, the show exhibited the superhuman multi talents of the singers and dancers to creative effect.  “Cruise-ship-esque” perhaps, but still very impressive.

(13.34 hrs) I have just finished another exemplary lunch in the Britannia Restaurant, seated alone for some time to myself to write.  On the way, I ventured into the gift shop, not expecting to “do much damage” (to my on board account, that is!)  I had lamented previously that there was no dated memorabilia in evidence. I went in just before lunch and found a couple of items from  “Cunard 180” an event which, owing to the pandemic became a “non-event.”  I did buy a couple of Cunard 180 related items which were available during the QV 2020 South America Voyage. Today, I secured a tote bag, and three china mugs, the latter of which, I think cleared their stock.

This morning, I became engaged in conversation with two former train-spotters and their wives, in a window bay in the King’s Court, both a few years older than me, and with vivid memories of what I am just that bit too young to remember. I had just finished a late-ish breakfast. That was the entire morning taken up, thus, so far, no deck walking in between the frequent showers.  Right now, in the Royal Court Theatre, Dr Stephen Payne is about to deliver a lecture on AIRSHIPS – Liners in the Sky.  There is a respectable audience, but I have managed to sit downstairs, in the middle near the front.  Photography, recording, etc, is not permitted, a fact that is emphasised on each visit to the Royal Court Theatre. A recorded voice requests the audience vacate the Theatre minutes after the event, whatever it is, has finished. Once again, I enjoyed Stephen Payne’s hugely informative and superbly illustrated lecture. I had the pleasure of talking to Stephen Payne on the Maiden Voyage of Queen Mary 2, and again at Cunard 175, in 2015. On the second occasion, I was decidedly out of my depth and this time around, decided that I would not intentionally seek further conversation with someone whose ambition and achievements leave me embarrassingly in awe!

Let’s get changed! The air temperature outside is a nice 22 degrees Celsius…but the weather remains overcast with showers. Well I never!

Now to try some walking! That’s annoying! Precipitation persists perpetually. I shouldn’t do, but Afternoon Tea in the magnificent Queens Room which houses the largest ballroom at sea, with live soft jazz, sounds extremely attractive despite the diabetic risk to the retinas! I have taken my Cunard 180 goodies to my stateroom up on 12 deck, and yes, succumbed to the temptation of an unintended Afternoon Tea!

A pleasant ambiance remains on board, generally, that is, after eight days. Apart from this morning’s spectacular reminisc about railways in the 40s and 50s, which I lapped up, typical conversation seems to centre on past and future travels. So when I wade in with my plans (which I look forward to) of “Amtrak-ing” around, not across the USA, I am regaled with horror stories of people with “experience” of U.S. rail travel, and they look at me rather sympathetically! I know, already, it’s going to be hard work. I love cruising, being looked after, fed, entertained and sincerely welcomed. Being able to do exactly as I please in decent weather in January, floating in the Atlantic some 22 degrees North takes some “beating.” But crossing numerous States on public transport adds a meaningful dimension to my travel ambitions. Amtrak isn’t the tourist equivalent of The Ghan or my next bucket list trains, Rovos Rail, or the Golden Eagle across Russia. But following a voyage to Vancouver (from Southampton) and then Alaska and wandering back to the U.K. without flying, will certainly be an odyssey worth blogging about!

Thanks for reading. David, 16.28 in the Queen’s Room. Note: I have travelled with Cunard during their 150th, 175th and 180th Anniversaries/years. It is my big hope to make it to Cunard 200 when I shall be 91 years of age….just 18 years to go! Ye Gods!

I have republished Blog 700. In noting the passing of Meatloaf, I got his actual name wrong, and acknowledge this rather embarrassing error. I trust that I have ascertained his correct original name, Michael Lee Aday.

Now, we are two hours behind the U.K. where now, many may be contemplating lunch!  I am just finishing a late breakfast in the King’s Court multipurpose eatery on Deck 7. Outside, passengers are soaking up the first of the sun of tropical climes.  Upto now, the voyage has been unsurpassably agreeable with manageable sea breezes with little or no windchill, once well on our way from Lisbon. Today, Friday 21st January promises to be hot, as people claim their preferred sunbathing locations.

I awoke to the very sad and unexpected news that “Meatloaf” had passed away. Meatloaf (Michael Lee Adey) fronted an amazing rock band from the 1970s. As a one-time D.J., the monumental tracks of his groundbreaking album Bat out of Hell were frequently on my requested play-list. On a rare (one-off) outing with friend and colleague Cath, we drove to Sheffield to see Meatloaf live at a massive arena, the name of which escapes me. I think I still had some black hair at the time! Decades later, I would see a Meatloaf tribute band at the Buxton Opera House, who, coincidentally hailed from Sheffield! Both genuine and tribute concerts were equally uplifting.

Oh dear! It looks as if we might be heading into a tropical downpour. Nevertheless, I shall change into shorts sometime today, and enjoy a brief season of out of sync summer!

Tonight, we are invited to don formal wear for a 1920s Gala Night. My white tuxedo will get its first airing since that wonderful odyssey around South America in 2020. Fortunately, it still gleams as if straight from the dry cleaners. 11.39hrs GMT -2

13.42 I have just completed 5 laps of the Boat Deck in glorious sunshine. A pleasant breeze on the non-sunny side of the ship makes walking a continued pleasure, while I resist commandeering a deckchair where the sun now blazes down! A light lunch in the King’s Court is the order of “right now,” I resisted the temptation of a heavy curry in the Golden Lion on Deck 2. From past experience, they are magnificent and I must partake of at least one before February 11th.

14.10hrs. Before lunch, it did indeed try to rain, and right now, it looks as if we are heading into a rather heavy shower. Temperatures are now in the low twenties and we are steaming at just over 18 knots. At around 05.40 hrs this morning, we were halfway between Lisbon, Portugal and Bridgetown, Barbados. The prospect of a further three days before docking at Bridgetown is most appealing. I am enjoying the very friendly ambiance, meeting numerous acquaintances from previous voyages. Lunch in the King’s Court “did the trick” but was not the “event” I have become accustomed to in the main restaurant. However, not having to serve yourself works for me perfectly. One doesn’t even have to queue at the coffee machine. Personnel are in profusion offering diners all manner of beverage. And I continue to like the new arrangements for second sitting dinner. Not having to wait until 8.30pm makes for a much more relaxed evening. The only drawback is not being able to establish rapport with regular table companions and waiters.

Apologies, again, for the lack of photographs. Two illustrated blogs, I hope, and a compilation of pictures will be sent from the Cruise Terminal at Bridgetown, where, with luck, the land-based on line facilities will be more effective.

So endeth my 700th blog. Many thanks for reading. If there are aspects of this voyage I have not yet covered, do feel free to comment. However, these blogs are by way of a personal diary, and will cover much which no doubt will be of little interest.

All the best, David, 14.45hrs, 16.45 hrs back home!

Isn’t life so very strange, especially at 3 o’clock in the morning. I usually wake up three to five times for a “comfort stop.”  Last night, and still this morning, the sea was termed as “rough” on the Navigational Channel, with temperatures remaining at a most acceptable 19 degrees Celsius.  Through the night, my cabin bounced around like an “out of sync” elevator. And, when I awoke at that silly hour of the forenoon, my thought process went haywire.  “Between now and the end of April next year, I shall be far from home for around 200 days,” I pondered. And, at that time of the morning, my heart sank!  I drifted off to part 4 of my night’s sleep.  I became aware of 5am, 6 something a.m. and then found myself “deejaying” at my farewell gig, with all my music inaccessible and the only 7″ single not being compatible with my CD-only equipment.  I offered this rare vinyl record to a disinterested group of young people for a charity auction.  Need for a further “comfort stop” rescued me from the scrambled ramblings of what passes for a brain!  Comfortable once again, I sunk into a more pleasant state of slumber.  It should be noted that Queen Mary 2 is facing rough seas, but, I have experienced, and enjoyed far worse!

When I awoke eventually at 8.30-ish I was relieved that the night time state of panic and melancholy had vanished without trace, and outside, the sight of choppy blue seas, much white froth and a gorgeous skyscape was as welcome as a lottery win.  My only issue right now is “only 200 days?”

Last night, I was invited to join a couple from Wigan who I first came across on the 2018 World Voyage, for dinner. I thoroughly enjoyed being in their company, not only for dinner, but for the show afterwards.  Two “tenors” from Yorkshire were backed by the hugely versatile Royal Court Orchestra.  Their singing was, as one might expect, very good indeed, one slightly better than the other.  But their chat between numbers did nothing to enhance the show and merely served as padding to give the backing band a break.  I did enjoy their take on Nights in White Satin, and the Sound of Silence, a favourite of mine since penned by Paul Simon c1965.  The duo explained this song was meant to portray an aspect of mental illness, and I was expecting them to launch into “I am a Rock,” which illustrates despair much more obviously.  Ye Gods! That would have depressed the audience, and impressed me!

We eventually went our separate ways; I decided to catch the end of Amethyst’s performance in the Carinthia Lounge.  “Amethyst” are a duo who I first came across on the QM2 2018 World Voyage.  Paul is a superb virtuoso guitarist and with Katherine (I think that’s the correct spelling) completing the twosome, I could listen to their music for hours on end.  Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here concluded their spot.  But, by that time, I was too weary to wish anybody was here.

This afternoon, Dr Stephen Payne delivers a lecture on Cunard’s 1907 express liners, Mauretania and Lusitania.  I shall arrive early so as not to have to stand through his illustrated presentation.  The rest of the day, I shall walk, sunbathe, and change one of my booked excursions.  I have at least one activity booked for each port of call, and when in Tenerife, will revisit Puerto De La Cruz where I enjoyed holidays back in the 1980s.  Surely it will be different now.  (11.20hrs, GMT -1)

13.48hrs For the first time on this voyage, I managed six consecutive laps of the Boat Deck, 2.2 miles, the exact distance from my house to Buxton Station (by car). Walking is marginally less.  And for lunch, I managed to have a table for two right by the window with magnificent up-close views of a “moderate to rough” sea.  Such tables are at a premium, especially if you are by yourself.  A wonderful (if not particularly healthy) beef and ale pie was accompanied by mash, peas and gravy.  There is something to be said for lunch, almost each day, at a table “dressed” with fresh linen, crockery and silverware, especially with views of a frothing tempestuous sea.  Outside, the wind may be strong, but you are not going to catch a chill.  And, from what I gather, tomorrow will be calmer, and a degree or two warmer.  The long sleeve shirts will go to the laundry, and out will come the shorts and t-shirt. (Yuk!) 

I made my way to Illuminations for Stephen Payne’s lecture, half an hour before the start, only to be reminded that it would take place in the Royal Court Theatre. Nevertheless, I did find a decent seat with no difficulty.  Actually, this would be a good location for one of the shows.  There isn’t the same enthusiasm for his Titanic lecture in Illuminations, unless people drift in late.  Perhaps the agreeable climate outside is proving irresistible.  I shall be resuming my deck walking 🚶‍♀️ shortly afterwards.  

I have taken a few photos which I shall post when internet quality permits. I shall also publish the blogs written during and after our call at Lisbon.

Stephen Payne’s lecture on the Mauretania and Lusitania was hugely enjoyable and enlightening. He confirmed bits of knowledge I have on the subject and cleared up many things of which I was either ill-informed or uncertain. There were numerous dates and statistics which brought his presentation to life, particularly the illustrations by Paula Nunn who through modern technology and much personal skill, was able to produce fabulous interior images in full colour which, when displayed on a big screen, brought both Mauretania and Lusitania very much to life, just like an expensively produced brochure. Dr. Payne’s delivery was clear and measured to perfection, with no unnecessary “theatrical.” Nevertheless, his account of the breaking up of a once national treasure brought a lump of deep regret to my throat. He suggests Mauretania was the Concorde of its day and I am glad that tiny pieces of Mauretania are in my collection, fashioned at that time into tasteful souvenirs, and I can gaze upon ephemera once perused by passengers of both Lusitania and Mauretania. What I never knew until this afternoon is that Queen Mary 2 was originally to be named Mauretania. The name might not have marketed quite so well as QM2, but it would be fabulous if the new Cunarder could be named after one of the “greats” e.g. Aquitania.

I have had a superb day today. My quest for 300,000 steps is well on target, and I have enjoyed the abundance of pure unpolluted air, blowing strongly from a southerly direction. Right now, 18.06 hrs, I am in one of my favourite venues, the Carinthia Lounge where the ship’s resident band “Changez” are playing to few passengers, which is a pity. Carinthia Longe on Queen Mary 2 is situated on Deck 7, where the Winter Garden was located until QM2’s remastering in 2015. When the band finish, I shall venture back to the cabin to prepare for dinner.

Posted the next day, Friday 21st January at 10.24hrs, Ship’s Time. Thanks for reading, David.