However, including today, there are nine further glorious days of waking up, flinging back the curtains to reveal an ever-changing and wondrous sea scape. 

Decent weather is predicted for the next three days or so.  We are trundling along forever north east at around 15.1 knots. along historic transatlantic trade routes connecting the Americas with Europe.  Of course, there’s plenty to occupy one on board. Dancing. lectures and a daily movie are some of the indoor choices available. Also numerous quizzes around the ship.   But for these remaining few days in tropical waters, I will probably take a refresher on soaking up the sun. Will I ever take breakfast on my patio during the summer? 

I didn’t expect it to be quite this hot outside!  Wow! This is a definite bonus.  I doubt I shall achieve my steps target today.  The temperatures remain high.  Irritatingly, the absolute quiet of a relaxing hour in the Lido on Deck 9 was shattered, NOT by the Captain’s Noon-day broadcast which I was looking forward to, but by two waiters who right at the moment the Captain’s began, talked loudly so that I was unable to catch details I wanted to hear.  This however didn’t have the effect of cold broccoli! My day is far from ruined! 

Oh dear! The Medical Response Team have just been summoned to Deck 9.  I hope this is not serious. Statistically, very few cruises occur without some kind of emergency.  Boy! Do I feel vulnerable!  Today is wonderful, slow tranquil and hot.  Rather than venture to Deck 9 or 10, I am gently walking around the Boat/Promenade Deck (3) determined to cover three laps (one mile). The unexpectedly heavy lunch doesn’t help!

15.03 hrs Steps target achieved!

So, I didn’t sit in the sun forever this afternoon. I was determined, despite the welcome continued heat to walk around Deck 3.  Ye gods! I was slow! Nevertheless, I kept moving, kept breathing magnificent sea air.  It is 6pm now and the sun setting behind grey clouds against a salmon and turquoise sky creates a temporary wonderful and dramatic backdrop, ever darkening to a nocturnal blackness.

I shall join our table’s quiz team tonight despite not being very knowledgeable.  Then dinner, and maybe the show afterwards. I do want to make the most of this week at sea, particularly walking.

Many thanks for reading,

David 18.51 in his stateroom.