Wednesday 19th August 2026

Steps, 7,935.

I awoke at a respectable 7 o’clock this morning to the distant but recogniseable rumble of periodic blasts of the ship’s siren, mandatory during foggy or misty conditions. I switched the T.V. to Channel 40, which provides a continuous forward view from a Bridge mounted C.C.T.V.  The colours were a strange mix of pale yellow, grey, green and other light merged shades.  What was it really like out there?  Why not find out.  I dressed as quickly as I was able and was soon up on Deck 14.   Most of the fancy colours had become more normal.  There was some intermittent mist.  The sun was by now higher up, and the ocean as still as a mill Pond.

I dropped down to the Observation Deck on Deck 11 for similar pictures from a different angle.

I then took the outside lift to Deck 7, videoing the descent of the elevator and the walk through the Mareel Spa Reception area, Carinthia Lounge and around part of the Kings Court Buffet where I had a waffle, pancake, and three cups of coffee.  I was feeling creative! 

I wish I could remember all the wonderful details of a presentation in Illuminations about bird life in the U S. and U.K.  It was a brilliantly delivered illustrated lecture.  I couldn’t help feeling that my  neighbours at home, next door and opposite would have thoroughly enjoyed this morning’s talk.

I had lunch in the Kings Court where I spent most of the afternoon writing up yesterday’s blog almost up to 5.30.  I then spent time outside walking as well as relaxing in the warm sun.  The setting sun was as lovely as this morning’s rising (or risen) sun

After dinner, new table companions, John, Emily, Fr. Michael and I enjoyed an evening of Irish humour in tonight’s Show Night, in the Royal Court Theatre. I sat after the show, for a short while by the floral display in the Grand Lobby before adjourning to my stateroom and writing today’s blog.

Many thanks for reading,

David, 01.05 hrs, 20/8/26.