NELSON’BOAT YARD, SHIRLEY HEIGHTS.

There are five passenger ships in port today.  The port city was packed throughout the day with suggestions of upto 14 000 invading the seemingly not large city of St. John’s.  The view from my stateroom window was of just a section of the massive P&O cruise ship Iona which dwarfed the part sail powered cruise ship Wind Spirit of Wind Star Cruises, alongside.

No tables were available at any of the bars or restaurants after our minibus visit to Nelson’s Dockyard and Shirley Heights.  (Photos later)  

For whatever reason, after waking up at just after 3 am to use the bathroom, getting back to sleep was a challenge. I don’t think that I did.  Nevertheless, after my normal diabetic friendly breakfast (including French toast!) I met up with table companions Jackie and Chris at 10.45.  Everything was relaxed and wonderfully unhurried.  Chris had suggested we make our own transport arrangements to two fascinating places to visit.  Firstly, we drove the considerable distance to Nelson’s Dockyard, dating back to the 18th Century, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, complete with museum bars and eateries, superbly incorporated in the original buildings. To “do the place justice,” one needs around three hours, perhaps a little longer to enjoy the very pleasant catering facilities here.  Private transport in both directions is plentiful and works out around $125 for solo occupancy of a mini bus for a three hour round trip, which is well worth the effort and the money.  A $15 charge is made for non residents which includes entrance to both Nelson’s Dockyard and Shirley Heights. This is very well managed and not easy to “dodge.”  Numerous souvenir outlets ply their trade.

I am so glad that I joined Jackie and Chris on a minibus excursion to Nelson’s Dockyard where we looked around and refreshed with a drink or two while Chris caught up on his e-mails etc where WiFi was available. 

After we wandered around, took photos, and Chris caught up with his internet business, our driver took us to Shirley Heights for spectacular views not only of the Dockyard below, but much of the island, ocean and lands beyond.

We took our time not only recording the magnificent views, but also each other.  We don’t often pass this way.

All too soon, it was time for the bumpy ride back to the ship, stopping briefly at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium established in 2007.  On arrival back at the ship, we said our goodbyes for the time being, catching up very soon over dinner.  We went our own ways.  My hope was to get something to eat and catch up in writing this blog at a quiet table.  No chance!. All the eateries I came across were full. 22.32 hrs.  The up side was seeing so many passenger ships together.  If every bed, including the fold-down beds is some cabins were occupied, the two P&O  ships could have flooded St. John’s with c12,500 passengers.  I doubt that either massive ship was full to that kind of capacity.  Nevertheless, I would say that between the five ships in port, a good c13 500 visited St. John’s that day, boosting its economy like a lottery win.

I walked up part of the main street with its high end boutique and usual souvenir shops. There were street musicians as well as an impressive steel band.

On the way to the main street, I saw that P&O’s Arvia was berthed behind sister ship Iona.

While I may be strongly loyal to Cunard it does not stop me from being fascinated by other ships. To see both Iona and  side by side was amazing and rare.  I could feel the onset of evening.  The lights of P&O’s Iona were beginning to shine like faded stars which seemed to be increasing in brightness..

Arvia was the first to depart after the sun had gone down.  Her departure provided some fabulous photo opportunities.

Written and published late 25/1/26

Amended 08.25 hrs 26/1/26

Many thanks for reading, David.