This morning, we are steaming north east 21° towards the coast of northwest Spain at around 16 knots.

I only just made it in time for breakfast, yet again.  And outside, the sun shines enhancing the beauty of white horse filled seas, possible harbinger of a tempestuous transit of the Bay of Biscay, although higher pressure may still calm things down a little. 

Last night, there were rumours of broken legs. If true. this won’t bode well for my next travel insurance premium. These emanated from around the Golden Lion Pub where I almost won the 7.15 pm quiz.  Walking normally was almost  impossible owing to the turbulence of the sea beneath us.  I’m unsure if ship staff e.g. restaurant waiters struggled the same way as most passengers did. 

Writing on 7th February

Yesterday was rather like the last day before preparation for disembarkation tomorrow.

Between 10 and 12 noon, there was the fund raising “garden party” in the Queens Room where I was relieved of a three figure sum having won the silent auction for the chart of this voyage.

I enjoyed my penultimate lunch in the Britannia Restaurant. We dressed formally for dinner.  This was followed in the Royal Court Theatre by the crew show.  Ironically, it was the only occasion when the Theatre was “full and standing.”   Each act was received with raptuous applause and cheering.

I joined Jackie for a quick drink in the Commodore Club, probably not quite for the last time.

Many thanks for reading, David  09.21 7/2/26 in his stateroom.