Blog 166. Day 2.

Closest land on waking up, the coast of N.W. France.

I do like my sleeping quarters! There is masses of wardrobe and drawer space, and from my bed, I can look directly out of my picture window to an ever-changing passing sea and sky-scape.

*First breakfast, in the Lido on Deck 9, starboard side.*

I lay awake for much of the first night, but not enough to mess up the day ahead, only just making it in time for breakfast which closes at 10.30. I intend sticking to my home routine of oatmeal, banana and plain yoghurt. But there is much other tempting fare on offer. (10.55 hrs.)

23.10 hrs – just over twelve hours later.

We continued our southwesterly course into a typically turbulent but not overly spectacular Bay of Biscay. Winds from a northerly direction discouraged me from joining the hardy souls hiking or jogging the boat deck. I joined a couple from Darley Dale for lunch in the Britannia Restaurant with fabulous views aft of the wake, choppy sea, and horizon. we were then joined by a couple from Leeds. The sun made intermittent appearances frequently eclipsed by banks of threatening lead-coloured clouds, resembling billowing smoke from an oil fire. Captain Martyn Sharples has assured his passengers of decreasing movement of the ship as we steam ever closer to Madeira.

I have had a look at the available shore excursions from Funchal, Madeira’s capital. I might just take a taxi to the Reid’s Palace, still a world famous hotel, usually an optional shore excursion for afternoon tea and a tour of the grounds. My recently arthritic knee condition is not reacting well to being on board ship. I shall have to choose any shore excursions very carefully. (23.24 hrs)

(Midnight)

I have probably mentioned this several times in previous blogs, about my travelling on the maiden voyage of Queen Victoria in December 2007. The ship feels and appears in remarkably good order despite having been in service for over eighteen years. Signing up for the on board Internet feels rather pricey. Nevertheless, the quality and reliability is exemplary, and so far is as good as being at home. Very impressive.

Tonight’s show after dinner featured a comedian and highly skilled juggler. Again, a highly polished, fluent and most entertaining act. The audience were responsive in a positive way. Some of his jokes might have been clichéd, but that was compensated by super sharp timing. So far, two excellent after dinner shows in the Royal Court Theatre.

Although finding walking a challenge right now, I did try to increase my steps total, coming close to my target. I took a few late night pictures around the ship.