FRIDAY 31st May 2024

Sailing with Cunard (or on any cruise-ship) can lead to completely unexpected events. (So can being a volunteer with Buxton International Festival!)  Never in my wildest imaginations did I think that I would see live on stage, boxing legend Frank Bruno.  But, there I was, standing at the back of a packed, full, and standing  Royal Court Theatre. I imagine there were over one thousand passengers present, hanging on to every word Frank Bruno had to say.  He was interviewed by B.B.C. Broadcaster Gary Richardson.  By coincidence, I briefly met Frank Bruno in a queue at the Purser’s Office.  I let him go first! 

The rest of the day was surprisingly disappointing.  My cruise itinerary indicated “31st May 2024  Scottish Isles Scenic Cruising, 09.00  –  17.00 hrs.   Perhaps I need my eyes testing.  I saw not one piece of land.  I was looking forward particularly to creating dramatic photographs. 

There was a medical emergency this afternoon involving a rescue helicopter. Helicopter assistance was required to transfer a patient off the ship, during which operation none of us were allowed outside or on our balconies. 

I retreated to where bingo was about to be played in the Golden Lion Pub.  Needless to say, I joined a majority who needed just one number to be able to shout out, “BINGO!” on several occasions.  That number never came up at the desired moment.  Perhaps the medical emergency diverted us away from the scenery.

When I wake up tomorrow, we shall already be docked at Greenock

Karen and Anne joined me for dinner in the Aranya Indian Restaurant, which was excellent. The other three women, Marianne, Jackie, and Cath, my other table companions, did not join us. We must arrange something for all six of us A.S.A.P.

There should be more to write about tomorrow when we shall be berthed at Greenock.

Many thanks for reading,

David.