First feedback on the P&O 175 Book

Well, it's the last day of 2011 and people have just started to received their copies of the P&O 175 Celebration book. Only one lot of feedback so far, but the good news is that it is very positive - phew!!  After such a roller-coaster journey to produce it in just a few months, it is always nervewracking waiting for the reactions when the public first get their hands on it. To the author it is their baby - nurtured, slogged over and eventually given away (to the publisher). To get the word count right, every phrase was agonised over - does it add to the story, do we need to include this, can we rephrase it in fewer words, and so on.  Add to that the incredibly difficult decision over which images to include (less than a third of what we started with!) and you start to get an idea of why we now wait with bated breath!!

Oceana Day 23 - 24 - at sea

Tuesday 13 December – at sea

Oceana was moving quite a lot in the night with various crashed and creaks so I decided to lie in until around noon, that is I got dressed but didn’t bother to go anywhere. I had lunch in the Plaza and then as it didn’t seem quite so bouncy, sat out on deck for an hour to get some fresh air.  The afternoon was equally lazy, having a toasted teacake at teatime. It was chocoholics afternoon and the seas didn’t seem to have reduced the usual queues. Chatted to Avril for a bit before changing for our last formal night. This was interesting as the seas were getting quite rough again now, as predicted, although one side of the promenade deck is still open.

My drawers keep crashing open and shut and when I popped back to the cabin to collect something, I found everything in the bathroom had crashed off the railed shelves on to the floor.  At the show in Starlight’s, even the grand piano began to slide, so they had to lower the up and down stage section and wheel it off to one side to secure it better. I only just saved my glass of G&T.  At dinner quite a few plates and glasses were broken. We got some great photos of our wine glasses with the contents at a funny angle!

I have now come to bed as my knees are starting to feel the strain. I didn’t dare wear heels, even though it was formal!

Wednesday 14 December – at sea

I don’t mind rough seas at night as, in bed, it is quite a nice feeling being rocked to sleep however…… although I thought I had secured everything loose, all through the night something else woke me up by crashing to the floor. Now the only thing left on any surface is the kettle and hospitality tray. Everything else is in a drawer or on the floor. It is starting to get a bit wearing now, although Oceana is handling it better than I thought she might, having been built for Caribbean cruising. 

I will leave any final packing until much later as hopefully the seas might have subsided a little by then. On the plus side the wind is behind us pushing us home so the expectation at the moment is that we shall berth roughly on time.

After breakfast in the Plaza ( it was very funny watching people, concentrating intensively, clutching trays and trying to time their walking with the troughs and swells) I went to the last Travelling Alone meet. My empty cup and saucer flew off the glass table, and later so did Olive’s and Stuart’s full cups! I was watching the seas from the window on the prom. deck and saw two lone dolphins leaping through the water. I had lunch with Jane and as we had a window table, saw the squalls sweeping across, with lightning and rainbows. It was amazing. I’m now in the cabin doing final packing and having a siesta as it’s exhausting trying to pack in these conditions.

After packing I went and sat in Tiffanys and chatted with Stuart and Olive and then went to collect the table photos. The early Headliners show was a brand new production – Breakdown Blues – which I thought very good. Dinner was wonderful and ours and the table next door, with Mick and Janet, broke into spontaneous carol singing – silent night and the twelve days of Christmas. When we got to the line – Sleep in heavenly peace, the misery behinds us said in a loud voice – Peace, that would be nice!  Jenny also told us that the divers that went to check the prop at Valencia found quite a lot of damage and we had been running jury-rigged. The stormy seas broke the jury rigging and the possibility had been that we arrived home a day late.  That may have been the weird jolting to and fro motion we experienced a couple of times on Tuesday night. As it is the next cruise will be late leaving while repairs are carried out.

Tomorrow I will be driving home. It has been the most amazing cruise and i think will take a while to mentally process everything I have seen. I woul love to return to Israel one day, knowing more than I did on this visit. Perhaps 2013??  We will have to wait and see.

Oceana Day 22 - Lisbon

Monday 12 December – Lisbon

I was on deck to watch the sail up the River Tagus to Lisbon. It was another beautiful morning with a stunning dawn.

We were a little late arriving and it took a while to moor. We were at a berth new to me – at the bottom of the Alfamo area, rather than close to the 25 April Bridge, which is where I had always been before. I took a tour to Cascais, Guincho and Sintra. The first town was an attractive, popular seaside town, with interesting buildings, lovely fishing harbour and good shops.

We then had a photo stop at Guincho to see the wild Atlantic rollers hitting the rocky shore between two lighthouses.

Then onto Sintra. This was not quite how I had imagined it but pretty nevertheless. I took lots of photos, wandered into the few souvenir shops open and bought a delicious local bread roll, cooked with hams inside for 1.45 Euros. Having driven there via the Estoril coast road, we returned via a different route so saw a variety of countryside.

Now the bad news – we had heard rumours of poor weather for our return. Sitting on deck for sailaway, stewards were collecting all the steamer chair cushions and taking them indoors, while roping the chairs to the rails. On the sun deck the sports’ nets had been dismantled and lashed flat, so the rumours were true. Commodore Burgoine then came over the tannoy as we left, to warn us the next two days could be bad. Luckily I had heeded the rumours and got my cases out beforehand and started to pack as I know from experience, trying to pack in rough seas is exhausting. Even now, just out from Lisbon, there is a very noticeable movement already. So the next couple of days could be interesting.

Oceana Day 21 - at sea

Sunday 11 December – at sea

After a grey start to the day it is now a lovely blue sky with white fluffy clouds and blue sea, although there is enough swell to mean the ship is moving a little. We have just had the noon announcement that we will be passing the Straits of Gibraltar at 3.15pm. I rose late today – 9am, and had breakfast in Café Jardin – scrambled egg and salmon. After going to the travelling alone party I sat out on deck to watch for dolphins and dozed off in the sun.

My throat seems a little better today, although I am still coughing. Tonight is formal again – our last but one. Mary is eating elsewhere and Jenny is unwell so we are few at dinner, but even so get pointed at and commented on! I went to see the early show – Philip Jones – but was not keen on the choice of songs and the smoke effects are irritating my throat so may not bother to go to any more. Bed after dinner as up early tomorrow.

Oceana Day 20 - Valencia

Saturday 10 December – Valencia

A very cold but lovely morning as we arrived at 8am. As the sun came out it warmed to a pleasant temperature. I was on the Discover Valencia Tour- part by coach, part walking. We began at the very modern City of Science and Industry. It was a stunning complex, with striking modern architecture separated by shallow lakes with formal avenues of evergreen trees in islands. As the sun was low, it was all lit beautifully.

Then we got back in the coach to tour the main old city before getting off for the walking part of the tour. I was surprised by the lovely architecture surviving.

We went into the magnificent cathedral, with the Chapel dedicated to St Vincent, and the treasury. After a local drink made from tiger nuts, we had free time to wander the stalls in front of the cathedral etc. Then more walking through the old Jewish quarter to the Market selling all manner of foods, with delicious looking fresh fish and meat.

We got back onto the coach for a tour of the modern city before arriving back at the ship. By now it was quite warm enough to sit out in a t-shirt and eat lunch on deck, after which I sunbathed for a hour or two. Our departure was delayed slightly as divers had been down to inspect the hull and do routine maintenance and we were an hour late leaving. We have another sea day tomorrow before Lisbon.

Oceana Day 19 - at sea

Friday 9 December – at sea

A welcome sea day today and the weather forecast was completely wrong and we have warm sun and blue skies with a few white fluffy clouds – warm enough to sit and sunbathe in fact, which is what I have been doing all day so far,  especially since I slept little last night due to my bad throat/cough. I have now lost my voice – probably why we haven’t been told off at dinner for several nights now!

We had our second deck barbeque today and it was wonderful to sit outdoors and eat in December.  I know the weather cannot be guaranteed, but apart from the light showers in Katakolon and the heavy ones in Messina, we have had wonderful warm and sunny days so far. It was the O Fact (Oceana Uncovered) event in the atrium today where the different departments showcase what they do. Tonight I am going to the Portunus Party – again – the second one as there are so many of us on the ship. I just hope some of my evening wear still fits!

 It was a lovely party – chatted to the Deputy Crew Manager and the Financial Controller. Good speech by the Commodore, before we all left for dinner. Went to the Ball, but as no entertainment officers yet again, went to bed.

Oceana Day 18 - Messina, Sicily

Thursday 8 December – Messina.

I am sitting here writing this opposite Lembit Opik who is onboard as a speaker. It was an interesting arrival at this ancient city, rebuilt after earthquake and war. We sailed past the Madonna of the Letter, which guards the harbour.

Lots of domes of churches interrupt the skyline. I set off ashore on my own to explore. Walking past the Church of the Annunciation of the Catalans, I reached Cathedral Square with its Fountain of Orion. In the Duomo there was a service going on and it was lovely to pause and listen to the Latin Mass while lighting some candles. On my way out I met a table-mate so we continued to look around together. We set off up the main street to find out what the large dome was on.

It was the Chiesa Annunziata del Carmine, where we spoke to two police officers who asked us what the ship was called and which company it belonged to. Then we headed up the hill to the Sanctuary of Montalto. It was quite a climb up via steps and roads and was not enhanced by the occasional heavy showers.

In all the churches we entered there were services under way. It is a special day here in Messina. Next to the Duomo there is a statue of the Virgin Mary around which a ceremony was taking place at midday. There were officials and police etc and when we went to look at it afterwards, it had been decorated with garlands of daisies and flowers. We wanted to be back at in the Cathedral Square for midday to see the special clock.

After the hours were struck a variety of gilded mechanical figures performed various acts – the lion wagged his tail and roared, the cock crowed thrice and flapped its wings, the disciples preceded by an angel, bowed to Christ and a model of the church rose up out of the ruins. It was quite a sight and took about 15 minutes in all.

My knees were really hurting so I returned to the ship for some lunch and to top up the painkillers. After a pizza in Le Jardin, I went to the cabin for a snooze and am now in Explorers, writing this. The sky is black again and threatening heavy showers but when the sun shines it is warm and lovely. It still doesn’t feel remotely like it will soon be Christmas but I guess when we hit the colder weather it will return. We are now into our last week and this time next week it will all be over. It seems an eternity since we were in Cadiz – our first port and we have been to so many differing places and seen and sensed so much It will take a while to process I think. Still we still have Valencia and Lisbon to visit so it not at all over yet.

It is smart casual, sorry, evening casual tonight and there is a champagne event in the jewellery shop so may find my way there.  The sail away was windy but there were great views on Deck 15 of the city as dusk fell and lights went on.

Oceana Day 17 - Katakolon

Wednesday 7 December – Katakolon

There was a big storm in the night. The ship was moving a fair bit and, being in an inside cabin I left the bridge cam on all night. I was woken up at around 2am by a flash in the cabin, and realised they were flashes of lightning. We arrived in Katakolon at 8am. It is still warmish but there are intermittent showers today. About two hours after we berthed, MSC Spendido arrived so the traders are happy.

There is very little here if you don’t do the tours to Olympia, but after the port overload of the last few days, that suits me just fine. I browsed the shops (buying a lovely red coral and silver pendant with olive leaves – the symbol of Olympia), had a coffee on the harbourside, watched the fishing boats and tried to extricate myself from a very persistent tabby kitten that took a flying leap onto my bag and proceeded to climb up the front of my sweatshirt until he was able to rub his face under my chin! He/she was so adorable, but a cuddle had to be enough.

 It then poured with rain briefly so I am back in the cabin to dry out and change. I had a light lunch in the Plaza (picking up some fishy sticks in a napkin) before going ashore again.

Wandered ashore again, armed with cat food, but the rain had sent them all scurrying for shelter. I just looked through the shops again and then returned to the ship. Took some photos of the anchors down for repainting and then back on board, of the MSC Splendido. Sailaway was good as many of the passengers from the Spendido were whistling and shouting and waving towels etc from that ship as we backed past them and turned slightly to proceed to sea.

It was a semi-formal evening but I really didn’t feel like eating anything. I went to the early Headliners show and then had a fan of melon and some fish. Most of us then went to see singer Peter Cutler – I didn’t realise he came from my home town! Then to bed, although my bad throat kept me awake much of the night.

Oceana Day 15 - 16 at sea & Piraeus

Monday 5 December – at sea

A very lazy day at sea recovering from the three previous days. I woke early so decided to have breakfast and go find a steamer chair on the sun deck and that is what I did virtually all day.

Tuesday 6 December – Piraeus

I was up at 7am to watch the sun rise over Piraeus and to see the other cruise ships in port – Louis Crystal, Louis Majesty, Ocean Queen and Thompson Spirit.

My tour didn’t leave until 9.30 so I was able to have a fairly leisurely breakfast before leaving on a coach to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon. It was about 1½ hour drive from Piraeus through seaside towns to this wild and windswept area of Attaca. The temple was built on a high cliff on a peninsula. It was quite a climb up but the views were magnificent and the walk worth it. It was bright and sunny but the wind, though warm, was strong and we kept getting grit and sand blown in our faces.

Back in the coach we stopped off for wine and mezzes before arriving back at the port at 2.30pm. By mid-afternoon the bells from the Greek Orthodox Cathedral were ringing and all the ships in the harbour were sounding their sirens in a cacophony of noise as it was St Nicholas Day – the patron saint of the navy (On our way to Sounion we had been briefly held up by a St Nicholas Day procession with a priest chanting, followed by two men holding a large icon of St Nicholas and then a band.). In the harbour were two warships and a submarine.  Add to that the muezzin in the mosque and you have this great mass of sound.

We left just after sunset at 5pm. Commodore Burgoigne is now in command and we are flying the commodore’s pennant. W had a good dinner, but I have reached that point in a cruise where I don’t want any more food for a while. Having caught the sore throat and cough bug that is sweeping the ship, I went to bed early.

Oceana Day 14 - Haifa (Galilee & Nazareth)

Saturday 4 December – Haifa

For our second day in Haifa I had chosen the tour to Nazareth & Galilee so we set off from the port at 8am for the hour drive to Galilee. It was yet another beautiful sunny day. The countryside was completely different from that we saw yesterday – here green and fertile plains. We started at the Mount of Beatitudes, overlooking the Sea of Galilee. It was a quiet, peaceful church with swallows swooping through the archways. Next we went to Tabgha where the miracle of the loaves and fishes took place and where Jesus is supposed to have shown himself to his disciples after the resurrection. Here we were able to walk down the stony beach to the water’s edge and paddle in the water.

Then, a drive along the shores of Galilee through Tiberias to Capernum and Saint Peter’s House and finally for the morning, to the River Jordan, again where we were able to step into the water, in fact one passenger decdied to be re-baptised then and there. The hire of a gown and towels was $10, and the full-immersion baptism performed by a priest. The river is not that wide and is very green.

Swimming in the water were lots of muskrats. After a stop for souvenir shopping, we travelling to a kibbutz for s delicious buffet lunch. After luch it was a 25 minute drive to Nazareth. Like most of these biblical towns, it was a modern, scruffy, bustling place but the Church of the Annunciation was an oasis of peace. Inside are the remains of what is supposed to be Mary and Joseph’s house, with the church and main altar built around them.

Next door is Saint Joseph’s Chapel – a beautiful, plain chapel next to the remains of ancient ruins of workshops etc.  A Mass was being held in the Church and the atmosphere and sounds were magical. The sun was starting to set as we came out and down to the coach, pausing at another souvenir shop for last-minute gifts and a comfort break. The whole day was well-paced with lots to see but not rushed. I would love to come back again to see more of this amazing country.

That evening at dinner, we all had a surprise in that a gentleman at the table behind us (in the opposite direction from the complaints!) felt we needed something to compensate us for the hassle, and bought a couple of bottles of Verve Cliquot for us all!  A very generous and much appreciated gesture, since we didn’t know each other at all.

Thankfully – a sea day tomorrow!

Oceana Day 13 - Haifa (Jerusalem & Bethlehem)

Saturday 3 December – Haifa

Today I stood in the Grotto in the Church of the Nativity at Bethlehem and we sang Silent Night!

As the coach was leaving on my tour to Jerusalem and Bethlehem at 7.30am I was up early. We left on time for the two hour drive to the Holy City. It was surreal in many ways driving through towns and mountains referred to in the Bible.  We first drove to the Mount of Olives for a view over to the old city of Jerusalem and the Garden of Gethsemane. It was a magic and beautiful moment, despite the man trying to sell us camel rides and postcards!

We then boarded the coach again to drive to the Garden of Gethsemane where we walked past the ancient olive trees to the church. In front of the altar was a large flat stone, polished by the touch of centuries of hands, said to be the place where Jesus lay on his last night of freedom. Next stop was the Western Wall where we got off for 2½ hours walking through the old city. As it was Saturday and the Sabath, there was no photography allowed at the Western Wall. However, we were told we could take pictures if we were discreet about it. The wall was much smaller in width that I had imagined and is divided between men and women. I had brought a scarf and so walked up to touch the wall. It was odd, but on this hot day with the sun beating against the wall, it was very cold to the touch and gave off a strange aura of peace. I was not the only one who noticed it. Those who wished left prayer messages in the cracks between the stones.

We then set off to walk through the Arab Bazaar and part of the Via Dolorosa, stopping at stages 3, 5 and 6 of the cross. It was like stepping back in time, walking the polished marble cobbles, under ancient arches, past stalls selling pomegranates, spices, incense and foods, but all mixed in with modern clothes, souvenirs and electrical goods! The overpowering sensations were the smells – heavy, sweet and very old – and the sheer numbers of local people going about their business.

We arrived at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, walked into the chapel built on Golgotha, touched the stone where Jesus’ body was laid out, and admired the huge wooden tomb built over the place where Jesus was buried.

After such an overload of images and feelings, we went for lunch, after which we drove out to Bethlehem, in Palestine. This involved crossing the checkpoint. On the journey the guide put on some music and at the checkpoint the whole coach was loudly joining in with singing the Holy City, when the guard came on board and hastily left laughing!

Bethlehem is a tatty, bustling, modern Palestinian town but the visit made my cruise. We entered the Church of the Nativity, bending down to step through the low entrance door built by the Crusaders.

The main church is Greek Orthodox and a service was in progress with the plainsong, incense and candlelight transforming the building into a glowing golden mass of colour from the icons. A visit to the Grotto was not included in our tour, but as we were the only coach there at first, we were allowed to enter. Through another chapel filled with icons, we climbed down fourteen steps into the cave where the spot of Jesus’ birth is marked by a star in the floor.  Each of us knelt to touch the star and then move round to the back of the cave, when the guide suggested we sing a Carol as it was nearing Christmas and so we broke into a verse of Silent Night and O Come all ye Faithful in this, the place where it all began. Even the most atheist among us felt the power of the moment.

We then had the long drive back to Haifa, not helped by having to stop on the hard shoulder at one point as the driver said there was a problem with the coach overheating. Back at the port he entered at the wrong gate and we had a ½ hour stuck in the coach while a battle of wits took place as to where he should be and why couldn’t they open that gate! He lost!

I arrived back in my cabin at 7.50pm just in time to shower and go to open sitting dinner!   I am exhausted and my feet swollen but it has been the most magic of days.

Tomorrow – Nazareth and Galilee!

Oceana Day 12 - Limmasol

Friday 2 December – Limassol

We arrived in Limassol around 8am and I was on deck to watch the sail-in. I saw flying fish outside the harbour and there were reports of a dolphin at the stern. I was on an all-day excursion to North Cyprus so we set off at 9.30. We had hardly left Limassol before we had to stop to let off a man who had forgotten his passport! The P&O rep refused to make us all go back to the ship so a taxi was called to collect him (at his expense - after all we had been reminded at least 4 times before we left about this). It was a 2½ hour drive to Bellapais and Kyrenia via Nicosia. At the checkpoint or Green Line our passports were checked off against a P&O manifest and no photos were allowed for about ½ mile either side. We then carried on to Bellapais. This is a pretty village with abbey ruins, where we had some free time – after trying to find toilets after such a long and early trip! Then I explored the abbey ruins and village. We gathered together again for a guided tour of the abbey before returning to the coach and the drive to Kyrenia. For me this was to be one of the highlights as I had always wanted to see the pretty harbour, guarded by the spectacular castle ruins. However, we only had ½ hour to explore the castle, harbour and shops. I started off in the castle but realised I would never be able to see it all in the time so walked down the steep steps to the harbour and right around to the other side to take photos of both. It was rushed and could have been so much more enjoyable with more time. I then climbed back up the steps and walked to the restaurant where we were all having lunch. The guide had promised a three course meal with wine. Those of us who had chosen vegetarian got a plate of luke-warm pasta with some tomatoes. Many of us complained to the P&O rep in the coach on the way back (and later had a £20 refund). All in all it was a good day – the weather was perfect again – clear blue skies and sun. Warm enough to wear t-shirts but not too hot for the walking.

We were a little late back on board and the Captain, Steve Howarth was making another announcement that Commodore Burgoine would be taking over the captaincy from Piraeus onwards. The sunset was beautiful as we sailed for Haifa.  We all joined up for drinks in the Yacht & Compass before going in for dinner. Sadly, after an hilarious comment from a waiter, we all dissolved into laughter again, resulting in another complaint ! Bed straight after dinner as very tired and an early start tomorrow.

Oceana Day 11 - at sea

Thursday 1 December 2011 at sea en route to Limmasol

Tomorrow will be the half-way point of this cruise. It has been the most glorious day. I have been on deck virtually from sunrise to sunset as we had cloudless blue skies, hot sun and glassy water as we dawdle along at 12 knots or so from Turkey to Cyprus. I saw some dolphins mid-morning and around lunchtime there was a pod of about twenty. I swear they spot cruise ships and put on a show specially – at one point it was like the Red Arrows as two swam towards each other and leap in unison in opposite directions, passing each other in mid-air - magic!

By the afternoon is was too hot for me in the sun and I found a reclining chair on the stern. The new Italian Deputy Captain nearly went flying as he inspected some varnishing being done and fell over two sunbeds! It is a Formal Night tonight and according to the Horizon, B&W night, but in the Cruise Overview that is supposed to be on the 9^th, so I am guessing many might be confused. On the whole the dress code has been well-supported, but the new terminology of Black Tie, Smart and Evening Casual has led to some assuming it to be formal, casual and wear-what-you-like! Tonight I saw two middle-aged ladies in white crop trousers and glittery t-shirts! Oh well – perhaps it’s me !!

It was a fun evening, as some of us solos got together for drinks in the Yacht & Compass before dinner of partridge. Then Jenny, Caroline and myself went to the ball – total absence of entertainment officers again and Caroline and I got told off for overtaking in the barn dance!

Oceana Days 9 - 10 - at sea and Kusadasi

Tuesday 29 November – at sea

I spent a very lazy morning again – on deck dozing and reading. I went in late to the Travelline Alone, before having a coffee and then lunch in the MDR before heading back on deck until 2.30. The Artemis book signing was from 3 – 4. It was bit nerve-wracking sitting in the very middle of the atrium with two announcements made over the tannoy but we sold a few so it could have been worse.

The late afternoon was interesting as we sailed between lots of Greek islands. Not too warm out although still bright and sunny. It's the wind that is cold. I got some US $ for Israel so that is sorted. It's now the lull before pre-dinner drinks and the early show - the Headliners or Bobby Knut's last performance.

Wednesday 30 November – Kusadasi, Turkey

It has been a wonderful day here in Kusadasi – bright sunshine and a cloudless blue sky, although chilly to start with. By mid-afternoon it was sunbathing weather – perfect. It is my fourth time here so I set off to explore more of the town than I had seen before. I first walked round to Pigeon Island and the lovely old wooden sailing boats moored along the causeway there. The castle on the end is now a nightclub and was closed. Then back into the bazaar area. There are some fascinating backstreets and flights of steep steps up to rundown white-wash houses where old ladies in traditional peasant dress were about their morning business. Everywhere were stray cats – so around midday I went back to the ship for a snack and went back ashore carrying crab sticks and shrimps from the buffet!

Back on board at sailaway it was announced that Captain Alastair Clark had to fly home due to a health problem so Oceana is currently under the command of Steve Howarth and we are heading for Limassol. Tomorrow is a sea day and then we have three very heavy port days of Cyprus (I am doing an all-day tour to Northern Cyprus) and two days in Israel.

After staying out on deck until sunset, I came in for a shower and a snooze before dinner. I went to Steve Larkins’ early show, which was again, very good, although his voice seemed to be suffering a little. Then we all went in to dinner – it was Jane’s birthday today so we organised the waiters to sing, although we found out too late for balloons! Sadly, a man from the table behind us chose to complain to Stuart about the noise we were making. Stuart was not happy that he addressed it to him, rather than to the whole table and it briefly put a damper on the evening until we decided to make even more noise. After dinner we looked in on the Christmas Market before going our separate ways – I walked out on deck and it was absolutely beautiful. A golden crescent moon low on the horizon, no wind, a lighthouse blinking on the starboard beam and gentle wash from our 12knt speed.

Oceana Day 8 - Malta

Monday 28 November – Malta

This is one of the new posts substituted for Alexandria as we are no longer calling at Egypt due to the unrest there. As it is my first time in Valletta, I got up early as I wanted to watch the sail into the Grand Harbour, although annoyingly the observation deck was closed. The dawn light on the golden-stoned buildings was beautiful.

Swan Hellenic's Minerva was already in port and, as she left mid-afternoon, I guess had been there all night.

After a quick breakfast, I set off to walk up to Valletta and explore. It was fascinating, walking up the main road and then the steps past the cat feeding station.  The old town is ladi out on a grid pattern so it was easy to find one's way around. I made sure I was at the Saluting Battery for the noonday gun and had a latte and honey ring in the outdoor cafe there, watched all the time by a beautiful young ginger cat.

 I then wandered down Republic and Merchant Streets, into the Co-Cathedral which was stunning. The free audio guides there were extrememly useful too. By 2pm I was very tired and my knees not good, probably due to the up and down nature of all the roads, so I headed back to the ship, photographing it and Minerva on the way. After a veg burger in the Horizon Grill, I sat on deck most of the afternoon, watching the seaplane take off and land with sightseers. We sailed at sunset and once again the evening light on the buildings round the harbour was stunning.

Oceana Days 6 - 7 - at sea

Saturday 26 November – at sea

I suppose it was too much to hope for that the weather would stay that good for all 24 days - today is very cloudy, although still not cold - 17 degrees. Finally we have put some speed on to reach Malta in two days. I mean three days from S'ton to Cadiz?? We have been dawdling along - I don't know if it was a fuel saving measure or if they allowed for bad weather and the consequent reduced speed. Anyway, we are steaming along at 17 knots, through slightly bumpy seas again. Today and tonight is ladies' day. I have booked a deal at the spa later but nothing else planned yet. Bobby Knut was the headline act last night. he was quite funny but i have seen better. Because he had arrived with a bad throat they cut one of the planned three shows last evening and he will repeat it tonight. The other show tonight is The Beatles Experience. There are also some good bands on board - especially Serendity - and a classical pianist. The Gold Lunch is tomorrow, or rather one of them as there are two to cater for numbers. Everyone had to RSVP a day or two ago so there are no empty spaces at the tables. After breakfast in Café Jardin I bought a Hazelnut Latte from the Costa outlet on board and took it to the travelling alone meet. We sat chatting for nearly an hour and a half and I am now in my cabin writing this.

In the afternoon the weather improved so after a late lunch in The Plaza I sat out on deck until it was time for my spa appointment. This was bliss – after getting over the shock of being sent to change into a robe and walk back to the treatment room! I then had a back and neck massage, facial, scalp and neck massage and foot treatment. By then I needed to go back to the cabin to wash my hair and do my nails for tonight’s formal night. Had a cocktail in Magums and then joined the others in the Yacht & Compass before dinner. Caroline, Avril, Stuart and myself then went to the Beatles Experience, which was very good, then bed. 

Sunday 27 November – at sea

I had a very lazy morning... again! Aside from going to the travelling alone meet, I sat out briefly and then went to get ready for the Gold lunch. I was on table 17, hosted by Tim Newman, Commercial Manager. We started with a glass of champagne followed by copious white wine with lunch. After so much to drink, I sat on deck for the afternoon. Went to early show – Mercury Rising – Steven Larkins as Freddie Mercury which was absolutely brilliant – first time I have been to the same show twice as I went again at 10.30 with the others from my table.

Oceana Day 5 - Cadiz

Friday 25 November – Cadiz

It was a fabulous day weather-wise in Cadiz.  We arrived about 8am and as Independence of the Seas was in the usual berth, the captain did a nifty bit of parking at 90 degrees to IOTS at the end of the harbour. As it is my 5th time in Cadiz I chose to go to a couple of the White Villages - one in the mountains (Vejer de la Frotnera) and one on the coast (Conil) with the most beautiful unspoiled beach ever! On the way we drove to Cape Trafalgar and through a national park. We saw storks, flamingos, lots of finches, a hawk and other birdlife.  We also drove through one of the Franco villages which was covered with graffiti and litter! The first village was very pretty with narrow cobbled streets and open squares.

The second village not so pretty and after a quick walk around, I sat and had a coffee in a bar. A little sparrow sat at my feet and kept opening its beak in a “feed me” manner but I didn't have food on me! I then walked on the beautiful beach – the sand was more broken shell than sand.

The weather was glorious and when we got back at 2.30 I spent the rest of the afternoon on deck in the sun until sunset. My coach arrived back by the way with two more pax than we started with as a frantic couple collared me at the beach stop and asked to speak with our tour guide - they had been left behind by their IOTS tour and fortunately for them there was spare space on our coach. I dread to think what they would have done otherwise as there was no bus or train and I didn't even see any taxis.  Off to change for dinner - evening casual tonight and then to the show -  Bobby Knut.

Oceana Days 2 - 4 - at sea

Tuesday 22 November – at sea

After a restless night, I got up at 8.30 and had a light breakfast. The ship is moving quite a bit now and the sick bags are out!  I went to order my Christmas cake and sort times for the Artemis book signing and find the cyber study – which has moved between the last cruise and this one.  Then it was time for the travelling alone meet. There were quite a few of us. We were all debating the likelihood of us reaching Egypt – not good the way the riots are escalating! The rest of the day was very lazy as I still felt very tired.  I had thought it was a formal night – so showered, made up, selected the best jewellery, put on one of my formal outfits and left the cabin only to see other people looking somewhat casual – whoops!  Re-read the Horizon and I had confused where it said Smart as the dress code and was advertising the shops for tomorrow night’s Dress to Impress! I hastened back to the cabin to change.

I then went to the Casino – where I won £6, only to lose the lot, so headed for Tiffany’s for a cocktail. There I was joined by Stuart from our table and we chatted until it was time for dinner. Jenny was missing as she was being taken to MPW so there were just the 7 of us.  After dinner I went to watch the dancing but since there was no-one to dance with me, I then left and headed for bed.  In my cabin was a message from the Deupty Cruise Directo, Richard about sorting the book signing.  I hadn’t realised Richard was on board – so that is yet another Artemis face.  Put all my watches and clocks on an hour.

Wednesday 23 November – at sea

Woke early and watched the sun rise on the Bridgecam, then got up about 8.30 and had breakfast with Avril in Café Jardin.This is much more civilised than the buffet bunfight and pretty much undiscovered - they serve a mean eggs benedict too. I then looked at the watch sale before going to the Travelling Alone meet again, Richard found me there and we arranged for the signing to be in the middle of the second set of sea days. Left to go and order my duty free and then sit on the promenade deck as the sun was so warm and the sky cloudless. Had lunch in the MDR again before heading up to the sun deck. Sunbathed and read until 3.30 when I had to go collect my gin. I was just typing up my daily report on Cruise Connections when the Captain came over the tannoy with the not unexpected news that Egypt was cancelled and we would be going to Malta and Kusadasi instead. Very happy with Malta – not so much with Kusadasi! Spotted how nice it was still outside so went out onto Prom. deck and sat out and chatted for about half an hour before preparing for tonight's formal night.

Went to the casino for half an hour where I won £10, then to the Welcome Aboard party. This was not one of the best as it was on three decks in the atrium. The captain made a brief speech and introductions and then hastily left. Drinks were sparse too. After dinner, four of us – Caroline, Jenny myself and Jane went to the ball. Managed one waltz.

Thursday 24 November – at sea.

Woke to a stunning morning just before sunrise. Got up and went on deck to watch. Then had a quick breakfast of fruit and croissants before sitting up on Deck 12. Went to the travelling alone meet before browsing the new tours – booked for Lisbon – then going out on deck again to read. Then out onto the prom deck to sunbathe properly and read. It is truly a beautiful day – not a cloud in the sky, warm sun although the wind is chilly. A school of dolphins travelled towards us, cutting in front of the bow and off again into the blue ocean. The sight always brings me to tears although I couldn’t say why – maybe the sheer joy in their leaps and bounds. Have come in now as it is 5pm and a semi formal night – Smart as it is now called.

We hit first landfall tomorrow - Cadiz

Cruising to the Holy Land.... 1

I realise a blog is supposed to be ongoing, but I thought I would start by adding an account of my recent cruise (end of Novemeber till mid December) on Oceana to the Eastern Mediterranean. Whilst Oceana is not my favourite ship, I do like here and she is ideal for cruising to sunny climes as she has a lot of open deck space.

So...Day 1

I was all packed and ready to set off at 8.30 and then had a momentary panic as the car would not start. This had never happened before!  I can only imagine it was because it hadn’t been used for four days and the weather was cold and damp. Anyway, after a brief stop just before Salisbury, I arrived at the Ocean Terminal in Southampton about 11.30. Everything was taken care of efficiently and as soon as check-in opened at 12 noon, I was through. Our passports were kept for Egyptian & Israeli immigration and receipts issued. Then after taking my shoes and coat off to go through security, I was on board. The priority embarkation lounge was the Yacht & Compass where we had free drinks and sandwiches. Three glasses of champagne later, I headed off for a wander before it was announced the cabins were ready. D718 is reasonably spacious with plentiful storage for one. It was squarer than my usual cabins. My cases were all waiting for me so I was unpacking when I noticed my dining table allocation – first sitting, table for 2!  This couldn't be right! Shortly afterwards my cabin steward came to introduce himself.  Then an announcement that all the dining allocations were wrong!  Stupidly I waited a half-hour or so before going down to join what was by then a very long queue. I then spotted Jo Haxby (from Artemis) who was dealing with a much shorter queue so popped down to that one ! Then to muster drill, and out to the prom. deck for sailaway and more champagne. Although cloudy, it was mild and dry so I stood on deck for a while until Oceana passed Hythe before going indoors to finish the unpacking and have a rest.

Later I changed and went to try out Tiffany’s and the Yacht & Compass. The live band, Serendipity, were very good. Then it was dinner. After the mix-up I was wary of what I was going to end up with, but the six other ladiesand one gentleman (all travelling alone) were great fun .

coming next...... how we gained notoriety

First sight of new book

Today I received the first hard copies of my latest book. Written with my co-author, Andrew, it was commissioned by P&O Cruises to celebrate 175 years since the Peninsular Steam Navigation Company won its first mail contract in 1837. 

After months of hard work and not a few ups and downs, it was a great thrill to finally hold the finished article. Seeing on-line PDF files for proofing just isn't the same, so thanks to everyone who contributed pictures, memories and information.

Welcome

Welcome to my new Blog.

As a writer, photographer and avid cruise addict, I will be posting my thoughts and experiences of seeing the world by sea.

Since I also write books on maritime history, I am sure some of the ups and downs in that part of my life will creep in along the way.

As Mark Twain famously said
You will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do, so cast off the bowlings, sail away from safe harbour, catch the trade winds in your sails, explore, dream, discover!