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A few months before the cruise date we were sent the full glossy brochure.

An easy start to the day, no need to get up early, our designated embarkation time wasn't until two in the afternoon. And in any case, an e–mail from Fred Olsen that came yesterday, told us that the ship wouldn't be leaving Southampton until Friday, due to sever weather, particularly in the Bay of Biscay. But after we made sure that the house was secure, and turned off outside power, we loaded the car and left the house at around 09:30, to drive to Jo's house.

On the way to Jo's, we decided that we were far too early, as we'd arranged to be there at 10:45, so we stopped in Asda and mooched around there for half an hour or so to kill time.

We still got to Jo's a bit early, but Maisie was home so we had a nice chat with her until her mum got home. Once Jo arrived we drove down to the Red Funnel, following a long diversion round because Horsebridge Hill was closed. At the Red Funnel terminal, Jo found us a trolley, we unloaded our bags from the car and said our goodbyes. We waited in the terminal building, it was still fifty minutes before the next ferry.

Before the ferry arrived we moved down to the end of the gangplank tunnel to await its arrival. The crew were very helpful in getting our luggage aboard and we were soon underway on our way to Southampton.

Once we had docked in Southampton, again the crew were very helpful and moved our big cases to the top of the gangplank. It was then relatively easy to get them outside to the taxi rank, were multiple taxis were waiting. The first taxi took all of our cases easily, and it was just a short ride through dock gate 10, to the Horizon terminal, berth 102. Some stevedores took our luggage and loaded it straight on to the conveyors, bypassing the mountain of waiting bags.

We went inside the terminal and joined the queue for security. It was a long queue, but was moving fairly quickly and it wasn't long before we were upstairs in the check–in queue. We had only a short wait before we were processed and allowed to head on–board. It was just before half past one.

Whilst we were in the security queue, we had been told that the rooms would be ready at half past one, so we headed straight there to deposit our hand luggage. The first thing we did was head to our muster station, lifeboat 12, outside on deck 3. On the way there we bumped into Jackie and Colin, whom we'd shared a Jeep with on our Tsavo safari, two years ago.

After we'd checked in at the muster station we headed upstairs to the view buffet to get some lunch. Very nice Moules Marienere, followed by a seafood stir fry.

With lunch over, we explored the ship a bit, we bumped into Sue and Steve, from the intrepid Africa cruise, and then a little later we met Keith and Alison, who we'd shared a table with on the same cruise. We went to find out where our allocated table was in the dining room. Table 10, a table for 4 by the window.

Back at the room our cases had been placed inside, so we spent some time unpacking.

We got changed for dinner and went off to the dining room for our 6 PM sitting. We arrived at the table before anyone else and sat down. A little later, Maureen and Philip arrived, they seem to be a nice couple, she's glutton intolerant so has to choose her meals for the next day in advance.

The evening show was a mish mash event, showcasing the talents of the entertainment company and introducing the entertainment team.

Thursday 29th January – Alongside in Southampton

We knew from an earlier e–mail that we wouldn't be leaving Southampton until Friday, so the ship had stayed tied up overnight. People were allowed to get off and a shuttle bus had been laid on, but at that time we didn't see any reason to go into the city.

We headed to the view for our first breakfast of the cruise, eggs benedict. Debbie then headed to the craft session in the art studio and I went forward to the Observatory to read, but found that my kindle hadn't loaded all the books I thought it had, so had to WiFi hotspot the phone to get it sorted.

The first of the ukulele lessons was at 11:15 with Tony Clarke. He seems like a good tutor, and there's a few people who are also tutors with Fred who are on holiday, but happy to lend a hand. Didn't do much in the first lesson as it was mainly an introduction.

Back to the room to drop of the ukulele and to meet up with Debbie. We headed up to the view for lunch.

We sat next to the two Ocean Wildlife ladies, who had their binoculars trained our of the window, counting birds, mainly herring gulls.

When I'd got back to the room after ukulele, the cabin shopping list was there, meaning we could buy gin for the room, I therefore decided to walk into town and buy some tonic water.

I'd just missed the shuttle bus, and it was a half hour wait until the next one, so walked to Asda, which didn't take too long. Bought 48 cans of Schweppes, which I then carried back to the ship.

Dinner in the dining room with Maureen and Philip. During dinner the ship moved from the Horizon terminal to the QE2 terminal.

For breakfast we were in the view, were we were seated next to the lady who would be giving the talk on the spitfire girls (her mother). She seemed to be very nice lady. As today was a formal night, there was fizz available at breakfast, so I availed myself of a couple of glasses.

Went to the talk at 10:00 about Dr. Crippen, maybe not the evil man we had all been led to believe, quite an interesting talk. After which it was time for the ukulele lesson.

Which brought us up to lunch time, for which we went to the dining room, Sushi, fish and chips followed by lemon possit. All with copious amounts of wine.

The ship finally left dock and the cruise was at last underway as we started heading up Southampton water.

By the time I got outside to have a look, the mist had descended, but I could see that we were just passing Nab tower.

Went back to the room and had a shower ready for the formal night.

It was also the Captain's cocktail party, which was quite generous with the G&T's and wine. The captain was on good form and was as humorous as we have come to expect. Then is was time for dinner, on the table with Maureen and Phillip.

After dinner, whilst we waited for the Neptune Lounge to open, we played shuffle board with M&P.

The show was Rodrigo Sanchez, saxophonist, whom we'd seen before, but it was still quite good.

The seas are very rough and set to get rougher.

Saturday 31st January 2026 – At Sea.

The seas are very rough, 7 to 9m waves in the night, had to rearrange things in the cabin to stop then from sliding around.

All the outside decks are out of bounds as waves were breaking over the bows.

Had breakfast in the restaurant, read for a while and then went to Ukulele.

Went to a talk on the “Aviation Entrepreneurs”

Ukulele again in the afternoon and then dinner in the restaurant.

The captain's midday speech (10 minutes) told us we had travelled 350 miles since leaving Southampton.

Sunday 1st February 2026 – At Sea

Had breakfast in the dining room

Seas a little calmer, at least we can get outside, can't do complete laps as part of the promenade deck is cordoned off for painting. Still managed to walk a bit though before having breakfast in the dining room.

Sat and read for a while before heading to ukulele lesson, Debbie has given up on Craft and painting as they are just too busy.

Lunch in the dining room, and then ukulele in the afternoon (Travis pick, tricky for me).

In the afternoon they had the “Secret Garden Soiree”

After dinner we went to the show, the ship's entertainment company performing a 1960s retro song and dance, we which ok.

Monday 2nd February 2026 – At Sea

The seas have got quite rough again, didn't sleep well because of the noise. Outside decks again out of bounds.

Breakfast in the restaurant, more reading and then Ukulele.

Lunch in the restaurant, very tired so went back to cabin for a rest.

Then more Ukulele, finger picking Ode to Joy, rubbish at it.

Dinner with Maureen and Philip.

Still quite a lot of movement on the ship

Didn't go to the show as it was the saxophonist and the crooner, so it didn't appeal.

Tuesday 3rd February 2026 – Docking in Las Palmas

Today the seas are a lot calmer, we were able to go outside, though not do complete laps because they were washing the decks. The front forecastle was open which was nice.

Calm enough for us to be allowed out on to the forecastle.

We went up to breakfast I the view, which was quite busy.

I went to the talk by Candida on the woman pilot, her mother. It was very interesting.

Then went pack to the room to pick up ukulele.

Lunch was in the dining room, a very nice seafood pancake and then some cod.

Went back to the room and started getting camera gear sorted out and batteries charged ready for tomorrow's outing

Late afternoon we docked in Las Palmas

Distance from home:1733 Miles

Wednesday 4th Feb 2026 – Las Palmas

We are on a tour today:

Mojo Sauce Workshop & Wine Tasting | LPA/MX

Discover Finca La Laja, a charming family–run farm owned by the Lugo Jorge family in the heart of Agaete Village. With over 200 years of history, it's celebrated for its lush vineyards, orange groves and coffee plantations. Join a guided tour to explore the farm's traditional coffee and wine production and take part in a hands–on workshop to create your own Mojo Picón sauce, a beloved Canarian speciality. You'll also have the opportunity to taste the family's unique recipe alongside a curated selection of the farm's exquisite wines.

We had breakfast in the buffet and then went back to our room to await a time when we could go to the Neptune lounge to join our tour.

We got to the Neptune lounge early and sat down near the back. The system for calling tours has changed since our last fred cruise, now it's a traffic light system, when your tour turns green, head for the gangplank. Mojo Sauce Workshop & Wine Tasting was still red. Keith and Alison joined us for a while before our tour turned green and we could head down to the gangway on deck 2 forward.

It was a little bit congested getting off the ship with several queues merging into one, but it didn't take long.

It is a modern spacious terminal building and we went down via escalator to the ground floor, so security or customs to pass through.

Outside we found our coach waiting and boarded. We were soon off. The guide kept up an informative chatter about how the Spanish came to have the islands, and the original royal family.

He pointed out cave houses as we passed them, and described the deep ravines which make up the landscape.

We drove along the coast and then turned inland into a valley, passing through small villages with narrow roads.

Soon we were at Farm Los Berrazales. We disembarked the coach, those with walking difficulties were taken by car to the farm, everyone else walked up a steep track to where we were greeted by the owner.

He described the various stages of growing coffee, 7 years before the plant is mature and can be harvested, and then a further 11 years of production before it has to be replaced. They grew Ethiopian Aribica.

He showed us how the beans were sun dried in special frames.

And then the roasting .

After which it was time to head to the tasting room. Tables were laid with bread cheese and cake. We were given a glass of each of White, Rose and Red wine produced at the vineyard, followed by a cup of their coffee.

We were then instructed into how to make Mojo sauce, we had a pestle and mortar, one between two, into which we inserted half a garlic clove, a teaspoon of paprika ( or more ), a teaspoon of cumin seeds, a pinch of sea salt, 4 teaspoons of olive oil and one teaspoon of white wine vinegar. These ingredients one pounded and ground with the pestle and mortar made a very pleasant sauce.

Then we had a bit of free time to look around before walking back down the hill to the waiting coach. Rather annoyingly a couple had taken our seats.

We were driven to the coastal town of Agaete Harbour where we had a 15 minute photo stop.

Then back on the coach for the driver along the coast back to the ship.

A short queue to get through X–Ray machines and then back to the ship for a late lunch.

Dinner in the dining room, Maureen and Philip didn't join us, they'd gone up to the barbecue on deck

The show tonight was a pantomime, Cinderella.

Distance from home:1743 Miles

Thursday 5th Feb 2026 – At Sea

Breakfast in the restaurant and then went to the talk on whaling, which was very good.

Ukulele at 11:15 and then back to the room to meet with Debbie before heading to the dinning room for lunch.

Afternoon ukulele and then dinner.

Didn't go to the evening show.

Went up to deck 8 for the star gazing meetup but it was cloudy outside so it was scrubbed,

Clocks went back 1 hour.

Friday 6th Feb 2026 – At Sea

Formal night, so fizz with my eggs Benedict for breakfast. We had a nice table by a window, and we saw a lot of flying fish.

Went up to the view for some more fizz whilst I sat and read by the pool.

Ukulele at 11:15 and the lunch in the dinning room, being a Friday we had fish and chips, nice crispy batter on a lovely piece of cod.

Passports and yellow fever cards had to be handed in so that they can start preparing for Brazilian immigration.

Skipped ukulele in the afternoon, because during the captain's lunch time announcement he said we'd be passing close to one of the Cape Verde islands at 16:00. I went up to deck 9 to see if I could see anything, but it was just a faint shape on the horizon that kept disappearing in the mist.

Attempted to photograph flying fish.

Went back to the room to get cleaned up for formal night.

Scallops and Beef Wellington, very nice.

Went to the show, Rebecca Mills with her electric harp. Not really to my taste.

Went up to deck 8 for another stargazing meetup. A few stars visible during breaks in the cloud, Orion and Jupiter. But too cloudy to justify going up to the sun deck and turning off the lights so it was abandoned.

Saturday 7th Feb 2026 – At Sea

Breakfast in the dinning room followed by a few laps of the deck. Again saw lots of flying fish.

Ukulele at 11:15 and then lunch in the buffet. We were led to seats next to Diane and Graham, who had been on the round Africa cruise.

Lines of seaweed parallel to the ship

Dinner in the dining room

Went up on deck for the star gazing. Tonight it was quite clear and we did go up onto the sun deck, where they turned the lights out. There were still patches of clouds around but Orion and its nebula were clearly visible, as were the Pleides and Jupiter. The session only lasted about 45 minutes so it was soon over.

Sunday 8th Feb 2026 – At Sea

Breakfast upstairs in the view for a change.

Then went and sat in the Botanical Room to read. Alison joined us. I had to leave to go to ukulele, so I left Debbie and Alison chatting.

Lunch in the dining room.

We were booked on a wine tasting session. A very nicely laid out event, with seating allocated by name cards. Some of the wines were quite nice, but I wasn't taken with all of them.

After wine tasting we went upstairs looking for afternoon tea, but we were too early, but did sit and talk with Glynnis and Tom for a while.

Then it was time for the afternoon ukulele session.

In the evening went to dinner in the restaurant and the went to the show. The ship's theatre company with a selection of songs by British artists who had been knighted or otherwise honoured.

Monday 9th Feb 2026 – At Sea

Went to the restaurant for breakfast, then I went to the talk on animal migrations, which was very good.

After the talk I went to ukulele where we started running through songs for the concert.

Debbie went to the cooking demonstration and then sat in the Botanical Room to read, she was joined by Keith and Alison.

At lunchtime we got internet for the day, before heading up to the view for lunch. Quit a few birds in evidence now.

By the time we had finished eating it was time for the crossing the line ceremony, as during the night we had crossed the equator and were now in the southern hemisphere. The captain and many of the crew were given a good drenching, all good fun.

Went to the afternoon ukulele session where we had Jane demonstrating and teaching her version of Hotel California.

Dinner in the restaurant with Philip and Maureen.

We went to the show, Amy Lou, a Britain's got talent finalist. Good voice, but not to my taste.

Clocks go back an hour to GMT –3.

Distance from home:4152 Miles

Tuesday 10th Feb 2026 – At Sea

A lap around the deck, in the distance we could see a city of the port side. Consulting Aquamap on my phone, we soon found out that it was Recife.

Sat and read in the Botanical room until it was time for ukulele.

Ukulele was practising for concert.

Lunch in the restaurant.

Ukulele in the afternoon, did hammer on technique.

Went to restaurant for dinner.

Didn't go to show.

Wednesday 11th Feb 2026 – Salvador

A quick breakfast in the view and then down to the Neptune theatre to await the call of our tour.

We had docked in Salvador at about 07:00.

We are on a tour today:

Panoramic Salvador | SSA/P

Explore Salvador, a diverse city known for its Portuguese colonial architecture, Afro–Brazilian culture, and tropical coastline. Journey through Salvador's historic low city, where you'll find the iconic Bonfim Church—an ornate landmark with an intricately decorated interior. Refresh yourself with a delicious ice cream before passing through Dique do Tororó and the modern cityscape, and make a stop at the historic Farol da Barra, a prominent lighthouse and symbol of the city. Accompanied by a local guide, uncover the stories behind key sites such as Campo Grande, Forte de São Pedro, and Contorno. Beyond its cultural spirit, admire the tranquil Itapagipe Peninsula before rounding off your visit at Mercado Modelo, a lively market brimming with local crafts and souvenirs.

We had to wait for our trip to be called as the coaches were delayed due to heavy traffic in the city.

Our tour was called about half an hour late and we headed down to the gangway on deck A.

We boarded our coach, a double decker, where we were directed upstairs.

We were soon on our way, the guide was very informative and proud to be Brazilian and from Salvador.

We made a photo stop to take pictures of Farol da Barra.

Keith and Alison were on the same coach, so we did some group photos.

Wherever we stopped there was a heavy presence of armed police ensuring that the tourists were kept safe.

Then it was back onto the coach and more driving and description before stopping for a free ice cream, I had Tamarind flavour and Debbie had pistachio.

A few quick photos by the harbour and then back onto the bus and on to Bonfim church.

We headed back towards the market, which was only a 100 yards from the ship so opted to skip the market and walk back to the ship.

Distance from home:4948 Miles

Thursday 12th Feb 2026 – At Sea

It is a formal night tonight, so fizz with my toast for breakfast.

The talk at ten o'clock was about the evolution of whales, which was very good and a very good speaker.

Just time to get back to the room and pick up the ukulele in time for the lesson.

More practice for the concert plus we did Delilah.

Lunch in the view.

Didn't really do much in the afternoon, sat and read mainly.

Dinner in the restaurant, it was a formal night, so we dressed up.

The food was very good, had four courses which included a lobster bisque, which was really nice.

Then we headed for the Neptune lounge for the Black and White Ball. Which was nothing more than the band playing some songs for people to dance to.

We headed back to our room to settle down.

Friday 13th Feb 2026 – Arrive in Rio

As our arrival in Rio wasn't until the evening, this was classed as a sea day so plenty of activities going on around the ship.

There was a talk at ten about the spread of species from the old world to the new, and vice versa, which was very interesting.

Back to the cabin to get ukulele and up to the lesson.

Lunch was in the view, Friday, so fish and chips. Nice and freshly cooked.

Back to the cabin for a bit and then out to the talk on the history of maths. Very good.

Outside to watch our approach to Rio passing Cocacabana beach, and Sugarloaf mountain.

Dinner in the restaurant, tried the regional dish, which was advertised as a shrimp stew, but it was just prawns in a coconut sauce, with rice.

Back to the room.

Distance from home:5700 Miles

Saturday 14th Feb 2026 – Rio Botanical Gardens

We'd been in Rio overnight so we didn't have to wait for any clearances. After breakfast in the view we headed down to the Neptune lounge for our trip to be called. It was due to depart at about 09:00.

Our tour today:

Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden | RIO/GX

Discover the vibrant beauty of Rio de Janeiro's Botanical Garden, one of the most important ecological sanctuaries in the world. Nestled beneath the renowned Christ the Redeemer, this 140–hectare park is home to over 6,000 species of tropical plants and trees. Enjoy a guided tour then take some free time to stroll along the peaceful pathways, surrounded by lush greenery. Keep an eye out for native birds such as the curious curió and melodic sabiá, which add to the garden's rich natural charm and biodiversity.

We were called early and headed down to deck 1 forward to go down the gangplank. There was quite a long walk along the quay side to the terminal building, which we had to go through, and then out onto the streets. We were directed across a road and tramlines into a large bus depot. The coaches were inside, we were directed to our coach which was marked with our tour number, GX2.

The guide had trouble with his microphone so didn't really explain much, which set the standard for the whole tour.

Because Rio was in the middle of carnival many streets were blocked and the going was quite slow. When we got to the gardens, the coach couldn't reach the main entrance due to a street party, so the coach had to go round the block again. At one point, the guide got of the coach and left us parked, whilst he scouted out the roads to see how we could get in to the gardens.

The coach eventually made it to a side entrance of the gardens, but our entrance tickets weren't there, so the guide had to make it round to the main entrance and then come back with out tickets, which all took time.

Once we'd made it into the park, we were led to the central pond with the Amazon water lilies.

From there to we were led to the orchid house. I'm sure there was lots to see on the way, and the trees looked magnificent, but there was no explanation of what we were walking past.

From the Orchid house to the Bromiliad house and then to a garden with medicinal plants.

That really was the end of the tour, but we followed the guide down to where a street party was adjacent to the gardens, very noisy, very lively, very scantily clad ladies.

We were led back to the entrance we came in and told to wait outside the park.

He led us over the road to a coffee shop, where we stood around outside for half an hour waiting for the rest of the group and the coach to turn up.

We got on the coach ok and made it back to the ship in reasonable time. We heard later that our sister tour GX1, had been just as badly organised, and took over 3 hours to make it through the traffic back to the ship.

Once back aboard, a shower and freshen up. The view was still open so we managed to get a late lunch.

The evening show was a mini carnival

Distance from home:5702 Miles

Sunday 15th Feb 2026 – Tijuca Forest

Breakfast in the view before heading down to the Neptune lounge to wait for our trip. Which was called at 07:15.

Tijuca Forest by Jeep | RIO/JX

Set off on an open–air Jeep adventure through the stunning Tijuca Atlantic Forest – the largest urban forest in the world. Marvel at panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro from Vista Chinesa, with sights of iconic landmarks like Copacabana Beach and Sugarloaf Mountain. Travel deep into lush greenery, where you may encounter monkeys, sloths, and brilliantly coloured tropical birds while having the chance to experience the sound and beauty of hidden waterfalls. Enjoy a scenic hike through the heart of the national park, soaking up the natural beauty, before savouring a delicious Brazilian–style picnic surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest.

As yesterday, we were directed into the bus depot, here we waited until everyone had arrived.

Then we were allocated to jeeps, we were in the lead jeep, 8 of us altogether, plus the guide. Other jeeps had 10, so we had a bit more space, sitting 4 per side on benches. We did have seat belts, and once strapped in, we set off.

The jeeps were open top, so we had a good view of everything as we went. We passed the Sambadrome, and the streets leading up to it, lined with carnival floats, being manhandled along.

The first stop was to see a waterfall, 35 metres high, the largest in the national park. Cascatinha Taunay

We got back in, we were told that we couldn't g to the Chinese viewpoint, because it was closed to cars on Sundays. Hence our next stop at the start of our forest hike. Mayrink Chapel.

We were led down some steps and across a car park to the start of the trail. It was a nice walk, with a few things to see along the way, did manage to see a monkey but didn't manage to get a picture.

The end of the trail was the visitor centre, which explained how the forest had been replanted by 11 slaves in the 19th century.

After the visitor centre we were led down another trail to an open picnic area, here we were given what was described as a typical Brazilian picnic. It all looked homemade, Nice tarts, very crumbly pastry, almost like a quiche, a sandwich, which was part of a french stick, a chocolate fondant thing and a delicious pineapple and mint drink. It was still only 09:30

Once that was over we were shown a hundred year old euculyptus tree.

We boarded our jeeps to take us back to the ship.

We took a longer route back, past the lagoon and along Cocacabana beach.

We were dropped off back on the bus depot, and started walking back to the ship.

I'd hurt my foot somewhere along the way, so we were offered a lift on the bus for the disabled back long the quay to the ship.

We were late leaving port as the ship had to wait for tours to return, Which had been held up due to traffic. Hence it was dark when we left, so didn't get the views of Rio that we had been promised.

We had dinner in the restaurant, I had the 'Taste of the Region' special, beef escalope, topped with ham and mozarella on a bed of tomato pasta sauce. I won't order that again!

Distance from home:5703 Miles

Monday 16th Feb 2026 – Ilhabela

Today's stop was a tender port, we waited in the Neptune lounge until our tour was called and then headed down to deck A to board the tender.

Introduction to Ilhabela | IBE/H

Discover the wonders of Ilhabela – a beautiful city combining beaches, rainforests, and a diverse culture. Set off to the Barreiros Viewpoint to admire the sweeping vistas of the São Sebastião Channel and visit the 17th–century Church of Nossa Senhora D'Ajuda. Continue to the Engenho D'Água Farm, once an important site for sugar production,  before proceeding to the Água Branca Waterfall. Known for its historic importance to the island, this waterfall previously powered the old turbines of a hydroelectric powerplant that generated energy for Ilha de São Sebastião. Have the chance to visit more majestic waterfalls, including the Toca Waterfall, and explore an old sugar and banana farm. Enjoy a tour of the farm and get to sample cachaça, a distilled spirit made from fermented sugarcane juice. 

The tender filled up with other tours and we cast off towards the shore.

Once we had docked we disembarked, we were the last to get off, and were there last at the coach. There were six tours all with the same itinerary. We were last onto our coach, and initially had to sit apart.

The coach took us to our first stop, we got off and waited for the other tours to come and go along a raised boardwalk.

When it was our turn we went to the 'Bell Rock', which when struck with a rock made a distinctive noise.

Quite a pretty place.

Next they took us back close to where we got on the coach, to see the church, which was closed because it was carnival time.

Back on the coach, we were taken to a farm, which historically had grown sugar cane. We had to wait outside whilst other coach loads where taken through.

We were given a sample of the liquor that would have been produced from the sugar cane.

Across the road, we could see statues and sculptures, depicting religious scenes, for lent.

The final stop was to a waterfall. One part of it was flowing down over rocks.

A short walk away, another part had a pool which flowed down into a gully.

Then it was back on the coach and back to the tenders, it was slow going because of heavy traffic. Plus it was very hot and the coach did not have air conditioning.

Getting on to the tender, several people fell on the pontoon.

Dinner in the restaurant was another dish of the region. This time a steak with a fried egg and black beans, quite nice.

Philip and Maureen joined us for dinner, back from their trip to Iguazu, they had had a fabulous time.

Distance from home:5815 Miles

Tuesday 17th Feb 2026 – At Sea

Tonight is a formal night, so fizz for breakfast, I paired it with eggs benedict.

After breakfast we sat in the lido area, as there was a cool breeze there.

Then it was time for ukulele.

Went to the talk on Amy Johnson

Dressed up for dinner, had a seafood voulevent followed by lobster thermidor. Could have been better.

Wednesday 18th Feb 2026 – At Sea

Feeling lazy today, so didn't rise until after 08:00. Went for breakfast and then sat and read in the botanical room.

Then it was time for ukulele, for practice for the concert.

After lunch went back to the room.

Debbie reported seeing pods of dolphins.

Met Maureen and Philip in the view for dinner.

They had been to the cocktail party that we couldn't be bothered to attend. The captain's address gave the warning that there was expected to be a 24 hour strike in Argentina, so we may not be able to dock tomorrow!

Distance from home:6770 Miles

Thursday 19th Feb 2026 – Buenos Aires

A lot of uncertainty as we awoke, but we could see on the Bridge Cam that we were docking. So we had made it to Buenos Aires.

We had to assume that our trip was going ahead, so we packed our backpacks accordingly and headed up for breakfast.

The captain came on the PA system and said that we had docked, but no one could go ashore until the situation had been clarified.

A little later the cruise director announced over the PA that all trips had been cancelled, but we could go ashore. A shuttle bus would take us from the ship to the cruise terminal.

We sat outside on deck 3 and pondered what to do. Keith and Alison joined us for a while, they left to continue their laps.

Google maps revealed that there was a nature reserve about 2 miles away. So we decided to walk there.

The walk wasn't particularly inspiring, but we did pass a Malvinas display at a military base which had an A4M Skyhawk and one of the amphibious APVs used in the 1982 conflict.

We continued walking, met Keith and Alison again as well as Barry and Wendy, they went to get a drink at the marina. We continued on to the nature reserve.

The nature reserve was very good, we could hear thousands of insects and the calls of birds.

We came across a viewing platform built out into the lake, here we could see wading birds and other species, against the backdrop of skyscrapers.

Further along we came across another viewing platform, overlooking on of the large lakes in the park. From here we could see many kinds of birds from ducks, geese and swans, to large eagles and a hawk of some kind.

By now we we had been walking for a while and were feeling a bit tired, so we decided that we would take the next exit out of the reserve.

Not far ahead there was a walkway crossing the lagoon going towards the city. Egrets aplenty were on display, as well as other birds.

We crossed the lagoon, expecting to be able to get out back onto the streets, but all of the gates were locked. We had no choice but to walk the length of the lake to the end, where we hoped we would be able to get out, which we eventually did, but it led us in the opposite direction to what we wanted.

At the end, we got out onto the streets and started heading back towards the ship.

We skipped inland a couple of streets so that we could walk by the side of the marina.

We had no water with us, so stopped to buy water and cold drinks from a local store, Revolut worked no problems.

We headed along by the side of the marina, until we came across the route that we had used to get there.

We retraced our steps back to the ship.

It was late, and by the time we showered, lunch was well over. We ate by the Lido, from the grill there, and then had afternoon tea.

Dinner was in the restaurant, not many in there, we had the table to ourselves. I had dish of the region, which was Patagonian Lamb, with chimichuri sauce, very nice.

Back to the room to collapse! It had been a good day.

Distance from home:6845 Miles

Friday 20th Feb 2026 – Buenos Aires

Today, Buenos Aires was back to normal. Our tour was going ahead;

Buenos Aires Highlights | BUE/A

Embark on a panoramic journey discovering the highlights of Buenos Aires. Drive through the vibrant streets of Argentina's capital and stop to visit the famous Recoleta Cemetery, where you'll see the tomb of Eva Perón, the iconic First Lady of Argentina. Accompanied by an insightful guide, head to the Plaza de Mayo, home to the Presidential Office, the old colonial Town Hall, and the cathedral. Enjoy some Argentine refreshments at a local café before exploring the charming streets of San Telmo and along the roads of La Boca, a region famous for its colourful tin houses. 

Our tour went ahead as scheduled, and after going to the Neptune lounge, we were soon on our way to our bus. The first bus was a dedicated shuttle bus, that took us through the container port to our tour bus.

We were soon on our way, the guide was quite good and kept up a good commentary as we passed various landmarks.

Our first stop was a coffee house, where we had coffee and croissants, both of which were very nice. The style of the coffee house was like a 1930's French cafe.

Then we walked down to the Necropolis, where we where shown various mausoleums. In particular the tomb of Eva Peron.

The next stop was to the cathedral, which was within walking distance of the Pink House and independence square.

The final stop was at the Camirito district, with it's colourful tin houses and bohemian atmosphere.

Back to the ship via the shuttle bus.

As we set sail the sun was setting over the city

Distance from home:6845 Miles

Saturday 21st Feb 2026 – Montevideo

We were on the explore like a local trip, which wasn't due to depart until 10:00, so we had a leisurely start to the day.

Explore Like a Local | MVD/EX

Begin your exploration with a scenic drive through Uruguay's capital, Montevideo, stopping for a photo opportunity at the iconic Independence Square before heading to the Montevideo Agricultural Market. Discover the market's rich history as you browse a variety of handicrafts and local delicacies. Continue to Mercado Ferrando, a lively and diverse market filled with global food stalls and gourmet groceries. Here, you'll have the chance to sample a range of Uruguayan specialities, from craft beers and locally roasted coffee to traditional sweet and savoury treats. Complete your experience with a relaxing stroll along the picturesque La Rambla, where you can enjoy free time on the beach, walk the promenade, or simply take in the serene coastal atmosphere.

The tour buses were on the quayside, so only a short walk needed to get on the bus.

A tour guide was Vincento. He talked as the coach made its way to independence square, where we got off for 15 minutes to take a few photographs.

Then we were taken to a local market, where we had 45 minutes to look around, longer than we needed really.

The next, unscheduled, stop was at the congress building, where we got off to photograph the building.

We were then taken to a food market, and given tokens to buy food, 500? each. We had toasted sandwiches with coffee, took quite a long time to arrive, but was quite nice

The last stop was to the Rambla, where he demonstrated how to make and drink 'Matte', a drink which is very Uruguayan, and which he had been sipping throughout the tour. It tasted a little like stewed tea and tobacco.

Back to the ship

We set sail out of Montevideo, past a ships graveyard

Distance from home:6798 Miles

Sunday 22nd Feb 2026 – At Sea

Heading south, starting to get a bit cooler now.

Went to Ukulele lesson, concert moved from 26th to 2nd March. Given 4 new songs to try

Lunch in the view, joined by Keith and Alison, then went to wildlife talk, about what we could expect to see.

Afterwards went out on deck with camera, saw one bird!

Came in to get ready for dinner.

Monday 23rd Feb 2026 – At Sea

Breakfast in the view.

We had to attend a mandatory polar survival demonstration in the Neptune lounge at 10:40, so the routine of the morning was somewhat disrupted.

Went with Debbie to the Kitchen Creations demonstration at 10:00, Aracini Balls. Had to leave promptly in order to get to the demonstration.

Although it was mandatory, they didn't swipe cards or anything, so there was no record of who attended! There was a demonstration of how to put on the polar survival suit, a thermal suit, a bit like a thermal blanket, but meant to fit over everything, including life jacket. Also, they said, that rescue could take up to 5 days, so extra water, 10 litres per person, was to be available in the life boats. All very comforting!

After demonstration, went back to cabin to get ukulele, and then went to lesson.

Lunch in the view,

In the afternoon went to first of astronomy talks with new presenters.

Then it was time to get ready for dinner

Didn't go to the show tonight.

Captain gave announcement in the evening, saying that strong winds were expected in the morning, so tendering in the Falklands would be marginal and may not happen!

Tuesday 24th Feb 2026 – Port Stanley

We were booked on a trip today.

Bluff Cove Lagoon | PSY/BC

Experience the very best of the Falklands on an award–winning visit to Bluff Cove, a remote and breathtaking coastal paradise surrounded by rugged beauty and teeming with wildlife. Join knowledgeable rangers and keep an eye out for majestic King, Gentoo and Magellanic penguins as they explore the pristine white–sand beach. In the surrounding waters, you may also be lucky enough to spot dolphins, including playful Commerson's, or sealions. After an unforgettable wildlife encounter, enjoy a visit to the Bluff Cove Museum and gift shop, where you can discover the Falklands' fascinating history, culture and stories of local life and enjoy a delicious cake and hot drink.

Captain gave announcement at around 07:00, to say how dodgy the tender crossing would be and that if we went we could be stranded on the island.

But we went to the Neptune lounge anyway to await our turn. Quite a few tours had gone before us, so we were optimistic.

Our tour was called, and we headed down to the tender, it was moving around quite a bit, but I've known worse.

The tender crossing didn't seem to bad, and as we approached the pier at Stanley, it seemed quite calm.

Once on land, we queued for our minibuses, and it wasn't long before June was driving us off towards Bluff Cove.

At Bluff Cove, we were dropped in the middle of the penguin colony, given a briefing by a ranger and left to our own devices, with a meeting time, outside the cafe, in 2 hours time.

There were Gentoo penguins and King penguins, both with chicks.

Geese everywhere, and large scavangers flying overhead.

The wind was bitingly cold.

We walked around the penguins, carefully staying within the prescribed limits.

Some penguins came out to look at us.

We walked over towards the cafe where we had drinks and cakes, included in the price.

Into the shop, really wanted to buy something, but couldn't find anything we wanted, non of the hats fitted!

The little museum was quite interesting, history of the site, plus some 1982 memorabilia .

We went outside again and walked along the beach to a small colony of Gentoos.

Three king penguins were walking along the beach.

Our time was almost up so we headed back towards our meeting point, and boarded our minibus.

This is the last season that this site will be running tours as the owners are retiring. I think we were very lucky to see it.

On our journey back to Port Stanley, June kept up her commentary about the islands, healthcare, education etc.

There was a tender waiting, so with the captain's warning about being stranded on the island in mind, we thought that we had better head back,

Back on board, the crew wanted to see our pictures of penguins, so we obliged.

Apparently the captain had used the ship's thrusters to keep the ship on station tand steady throughout the day.

Dinner was in the dinning room with Maureen and Philip.

Not bothered about the show.

Stargazing session tonight.

Went to stargazing, but it was cancelled as the ship was moving around too much, and it wasn't considered safe to be on deck in the dark.

Distance from home:7826 Miles

Wednesday 25th Feb 2026 – At Sea

Breakfast in the view.

Went to ukulele at 11:00

Heading south, seas are very calm.

Entered the Drake Passage in the Evening, seas still very calm.

Thursday 26th Feb 2026 – Elephant Island

Breakfast in the view

Ukulele

Very misty outside.

Got to Elephant Island, late afternoon, still too misty to see anything.

Saw plenty of birds, and some seals too.

We went around to the south side of the island where it was a bit clearer

We encountered our first iceberg, so the captain sailed the ship around it so we could all get a good look. The whole crew came out to have a look

Distance from home:8300 Miles

Friday 27th Feb 2026 – King George Island

We sailed into Admiralty bay where we could see the Chilean and Peruvian Research stations.

Stunning scenery

We were then scheduled to sail to Maxwell bay, but when we where at the entrance of the bay, it was evident that the fog was too thick, and we wouldn't see anything. So the captain decided to take us to Half Moon island, but again this wasn't accessible so we sailed on.

The end of the day's scenic cruising was scheduled for 20:00, but was brought forward an hour to allow better light at Deception island. There's a large penguin colony here, so got some shots from a distance.

Distance from home:8459 Miles

Saturday 28th Feb 2026 – Antarctic Peninsula

The first sight of the day, Gerlache Strait, was scheduled to be at 05:00! I'd set my alarm and woke up in good time. Switch on cabin TV to check the Bridge camera, where I could see that it was thick fog. So went back to bed.

I was up and outside for the next scheduled highlight at 07:00. It was announced that because if the fog earlier, Gerlache Strait had been delayed, and that was where the ship was going next, so I hadn't missed anything.

As we sailed down the Strait, various things to see where announced over the tannoy, including the Guverneren shipwreck, but try as I might, I couldn't spot it.

We sailed in Wilhelmina bay. Whales could be seen, diving, waving their tails.

The captain spotted a group of penguins on an iceflow, so slowed the ship so that we could have a good look. At that time, humpback whales started leaping upwards, breaching the surface.

We saw many many whales, humpbacks, over 200 in the bay.

We passed through Errera channel and arrived t Neko Harbour.

At Neko Harbour the ship backed up towards the large Penguin colony there (Gentoos), we could get closer than yesterday's colony so got some better shots.

The last site for the day was Paradise Bay, where four glaciers enter the bay from different directions.

We went for dinner in the dining room. Saw a whale come really close to the ship during the meal.

The ship came to a halt as we were staying stationary over night.

Distance from home:8642 Miles

Sunday 1st Mar 2026 – Antarctic Peninsula

Another 07:00 start, out on deck as we were due to be passing though the Lemaire channel, but it was blocked with ice, so the ship was positioned so that people could take photos and then it reversed coarse. It was announced that this was as far south as we could get, and hence forward would be heading north again.

We had come within 95 miles of the Antarctic circle.

Because the Lemaire channel was blocked it meant we couldn't get to Deloncle Bay or Girard Bay.

We made it to the Neumayer Channel and passed through that to Port Lockroy, a historic British research station.

Mulled wine was served to celebrate the end of our Antarctic cruising, with just one more highlight to go this afternoon.

We entered Scholleart channel at around 14:00. Back out on deck to see what could be seen.

Beautiful scenery, but very little wildlife, saw one whale from a distance and a few birds. As we headed out of Antarctica and into the Drake Passage.

Had room service meal as feeling quite tired from continuous early mornings and hours on deck.

Distance from home:8673 Miles

Monday 2nd Mar 2026 – Drake Passage and Cape Horn

A quiet sea day. We're both feeling chesty and coughing a lot, so decided to let the medical centre know in case it was covid. They asked us to go there, which we did. They took our temperature, and said we were free to go as we didn't have a fever or anything. So we went up to breakfast in the view. Had eggs benedict.

Loitered around in the Botanical room, reading the news and then headed back to our room, which by now had been cleaned.

Spent most of the day in the room, venturing out for lunch in the view.

Missed ukulele concert as I thought I would be coughing too much.

In the evening went to dinner in the dining room, Maureen and Philip joined us.

We finished the meal quickly, because by 19:00 we could see that Cape Horn was approaching and we wanted to be out on deck.

Were out looking at the scenery by 19:15. The captain took the ship to within a mile of the Island and then did a 360 degree pirouette, so everyone could see the lighthouse, chapel and monument.

The pilot arrived to guide us from here on in.

The Captain said he was going to sail around the island, but the light was fading fast so we decided to go inside,

Distance from home:8283 Miles

Tuesday 3rd Mar 2026 – Beagle Channel

Debbie feeling quite rough so slow getting up. I went outside to take some pictures of the scenery as we were passing through the Beagle Channel.

Argentina on the right, Chile on the left.

Saw a whale behind the ship to too far away to photograph. After a while I went back in, Debbie was up and dressed, so we headed up for breakfast.

After breakfast, we both went outside to admire the scenery. Saw another whale.

Went inside to have lunch, and then I came back outside for a while.

Went to the view for dinner, alone. During dinner someone pointed to a 'whale', much excitement with people crowding around the windows, but it turned out to be waves breaking over a reef!

Distance from home:8327 Miles

Wednesday 4th Mar 2026 – Punta Arenas

We docked alongside the pier at 08:00.

After having breakfast in the view we went down to the Neptune Lounge to await our tour.

Panoramic Punta Arenas | PUQ/L

Set off on a panoramic drive along Bulnes Avenue, where you will encounter El Ovejero, one of Patagonia's iconic symbols. Continue to a renowned pioneer cemetery, shaded by tall cypress trees and adorned with splendid mausoleums, before visiting the Maggiorino Borgatello Museum. Founded by Salesian missionaries, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the region's flora, fauna, and the history and habitat of its indigenous peoples. Uncover spectacular panoramic views of the city and the Magellan Strait from the Cerro de la Cruz viewpoint. Conclude your journey at the city's main square, Plaza de Armas, with a delicious local snack served in a charming, refurbished pioneer house.

It was duly called and we went down to the gangway and onto the pier. It was a long walk down the pier to the terminal building. There a belongings had to be x–rayed as we went through.

We boarded the coach. Our tour guide was Patrick, very good English and a good commentary throughout.

The first stop was the cemetery where we could see the variety of nationalities that had worked to make Punta Arenas what it was.

Then we were taken up to the viewpoint, with panoramic views over the town.

The third stop was the museum, which he guided us around, with displays of the way of life of life of the indigenous people.

The stop at the museum was an hour, after half an hour we left the tour and walked around some of the exhibits by ourselves and then went outside to look at the statue.

Finally we were taken to the central plaza to look at the centrepiece monument to Tierra Del Fuego.

A couple of mounted police were there, they had nothing to do, so were practising dressage moves! There is virtually no crime here.

We were taken to the basement of Sarah Braun's house where we were given Pisco cocktails and empanadas, both very nice. Chilean Pisco differs from Peruvian Pisco in that it is made from a single grape, Muscatel.

As we left the basement, a huge gust of wind sent tables and chairs crashing.

Back at the pier, we weren't allowed to walk back to the ship because of the high winds, so we were guided to a shuttle bus that took us there.

On the other side of the pier, the RRS Sir David Attenborough had docked. An awesome ship.

There was a seal sleeping on one of the tyres they use as buffers.

Distance from home:8240 Miles

We'd left the Magellan Strait during the night and were now tracking up the coast of Chile, heading for the fjprds

Friday 6th Mar 2026 – Fjords

We had been told that we would be at Skua Glacier (aka Amalia Glacier) at 07:00, so alarms were duly set to wake us up so that we could be out on deck.

Once out on deck, the ship was stationary, sitting before a bank of fog which was obscuring the entrance to the passage that led to the glacier.

A smaller ship could be seen edging into the fog.

We waited until the fog had cleared a bit and then edged forward into the passage and up to the glacier.

By this time the sun had risen directly behind the glacier, so it was quite hard to see. Very spectacular though.

We stayed by the glacier for some time.

The rest of the day the ship was making it's way through the channels and passages of the fjord network. Beautiful scenery.

Went to the dining room for dinner as the ship was exiting the fjords into the Pacific ocean.

Over the course of dinner saw nearly a dozen whales (Sei Whales) through the window, quite close to the ship too.

A stargazing session had been arranged for 21:45, but when I got up there, the astronomers reported that the beautiful clear skies of the day had been replaced by dense cloud cover.

Distance from home:8210 Miles

Saturday 7th Mar 2026 – At Sea

We'd left the fjords overnight to track up the coast, we'll be re–entering the fjords tonight.

A quiet day at sea. Very misty outside.

Breakfast in the view.

Reading in the Botanical room and then down to ukulele.

In his lunchtime address, the Captain mentioned that we'd be passing a glacier at 08:00 tomorrow.

Lunch in the view then back to the room to relax.

Dinner in dining room with Maureen and Philip.

Back to the room for the evening.

No mention of sights to be seen in the daily times for tomorrow!

Half way there! Halfway through the cruise!

Sunday 8th Mar 2026 – At Sea

Yesterday the captain said that there'd be things to see outside at 08:00. So got up and went outside. It was very foggy, the fog horn was sounding. There wasn't much to be seen, but then the sun started to show itself above the mountains on the starboard side.

Went inside to have breakfast, by which time the fog had cleared a bit and there was some lovely scenery outside.

Came in to do ukulele, and then went up for lunch in the view, but it was very busy so sat outside by the Lido pool. Through the windows we were passing small towns with ferry boats, dolphins could be seen closer to the shore.

We passed the site of a bridge construction for the Pan American highway.

From the top deck we could see much more.

Went back to the room for a while and then came outside again as we were exiting the fjords for the last time.

Once out of the fjords we saw several whale spouts.

Distance from home:7758 Miles

Monday 9th Mar 2026 – At Sea

A day at sea, we had breakfast in our room that we had ordered the night before.

Read in the botanical room until time for ukulele.

Misty outside.

Lunch in the dining room.

In the afternoon I went to a wine tasting session, Chilean wines.

At dinner we saw several whale spouts. We heard that others had seen Blue Whales earlier in the day.

We skipped tea and coffee as we had a show to go to at 19:00. The bar staff were performing song and dance, some in traditional costumes, which we watched with a bottle of Prossecco between us.

Tuesday 10th Mar 2026 – Valparaiso

Belle Epoque of Vina del Mar | VAP/Z

Embark on an unforgettable journey, uncovering the highlights of Viña del Mar's golden era, when the city blossomed into a chic coastal retreat for the wealthy of Santiago and Valparaíso. Discover the town's rich history, culture and elegance as you explore iconic landmarks such as the Fonck Museum, a Neo–Colonial mansion that houses one of Chile's most important collections of pre–Columbian artifacts. From Mapuche silverwork to a genuine Moai statue from Easter Island, this museum offers a glimpse into the country's diverse cultural roots and archaeological legacy. Continue to the opulent Rioja Palace, home to a grand ballroom, manicured gardens and beautifully preserved furnishings. Conclude your tour at Vergara Palace, set within the peaceful Quinta Vergara Park, to admire its ornate architecture and stroll through the serene gardens that frame this historical gem.

In the Neptune lounge in good time to be called for our tour, we had to have stickers and were allocated to bus 17.

Because we were docked in a container port, we weren't allowed to walk, so we had to use shuttle buses to get to the cruise terminal, which seemed to be a long way away.

Once at the cruise terminal, we had to walk to our tour bus and wait for everyone else to arrive, we set off 30 minutes behind schedule.

The first stop was the Fonck Museum, which depicted the history of the indigenous people, as well as of Easter Island.

There was an Easter Island Head outside the museum.

We had an hour to look around the museum, which was too long really.

The next stop was Rioja Palace, where we were split into 2 smaller groups to be shown around the house and gardens.

The final stop was Mexican Plaza, where we had a short walking tour, past the casino down to the promenade, and then back to the bus.

Then it was back to the ship, which involved the reverse procedure of shuttle buses to get us from the terminal to the ship.

Distance from home:7191 Miles

Wednesday 11th Mar 2026 – Coquimbo

We were on a tour today, highlights of Coquimbo and Le Serena, so we went down to the Neptune lounge at the appointed time.

Discover Coquimbo & La Serena | CQQ/B

Embark on an exploration showcasing the best of Coquimbo and its surroundings. Drive through the authentic streets of downtown Coquimbo to Plaza de Armas, where a local guide shares tales of the city's rich history and notorious pirates like Sir Francis Drake. Continue along La Herradura Beach towards La Serena, a charming coastal city known for its colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Marvel at its iconic lighthouse before exploring an archaeological museum featuring impressive collections from the Molles and Diaguitas cultures, including a monumental moai statue in the Easter Island exhibit. Complete your experience and browse the arts and crafts at La Recova Market.

We were soon on our coach and taken to the first stop, which was a viewpoint across the bay. Unfortunately it was foggy so sights were only vaguely visible in the mist.

There were things to see closer to where we were, including a work force gathering seaweed from the beach to use as fertiliser. Also stylised statues of the Apostles.

The coach had a spot of bother turning round, and took several attempts to get us heading back down the hill

The next stop was a lighthouse that wasn't a lighthouse. A Stylised building on the coast built to look like a cross between a fort and a lighthouse.

The third stop ws the Archaeological museum of La Serena, which was quite interesting. It had another Easter Island head, kept inside out of the weather, as well as other interesting artefacts.

From the museum, it was a short walk to Recover market, which wasn't particularly big,

Because the market wasn't very big, we had time to look arounf the supermarket next door, even managed to restock our supply of tonic water for the cabin.

Our final stop was up to a viewpoint overlooking the Equi valley, but the guide suggested that we may find the cemetery more interesting

Then it was time to go back to the ship.

Once onboard we walked around on the top deck and then on the promenade deck to see what we could see.

Distance from home:7018 Miles

A formal night, so the normal Cava for breakfast

Lunch was a barbecue on the back deck, with free cocktails.

Friday 13th Mar 2026 – Iquique

Santa Laura & The Atacama Giant | IQQ/C

Set off on an unforgettable journey through the Atacama Desert, a breathtaking landscape of barren sand and rock, en route to the abandoned mining town of Santa Laura. Accompanied by a local guide, explore the remnants of the industrial town and visit the Museum of Saltpeter where you'll learn more about this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue your exploration to Cerro Unitas, and uncover the spectacular Atacama Giant – a massive, anthropomorphic astronomical calendar built into the hillside. Enjoy lunch in the quaint village of Pozo Almonte before returning to your ship.

Today we are on a tour, so had breakfast in the buffet and then headed down to the Neptune lounge to await our tour.

Our tour guide was Valentina, and she told is about Iquique as we headed out into the desert.

What was evident was the amount of litter and rubbish that was visible from the road, this she blamed on lorry drivers throwing rubbish from their cabs as they transported goods to Bolivia, but it looked much worse than that in places.

As we drove we passed the largest sand dune in South America, the sleeping dragon(?). And onwards into the desert until we reached the saltpetre mining town of Santa Laura.

We were led round the abandoned and looted buildings whilst Valentina described the processes that went on in each building. The site had been prosperous until the advent of artificial fertiliser, invented in Germany.

All of the wooden living accommodation had been looted for wood and there was nothing of that left to see.

After Santa Laura, we headed further into the Atacama desert to visit the Atacama giant. A 119 Metre high geo glyph on the side of a remote hill in the desert. The largest prehistoric anthropomorphic geo glyph in the world.

Then it was time for lunch and we were driven to a road side restaurant! Where we were served a three course lunch of quinoa and smoked chicken, beef and mashed potato and fruit salad. Not the greatest lunch!

Back to the ship and time to relax and take in the wildlife around the ship.

Distance from home:6432 Miles

Saturday 14th Mar 2026 – At Sea

Today should have been our last stop in Chile at Arica, but the stop had been cancelled as the port was unable to accept us due to an adverse swell. But we would proceed to Paracas in Peru and stay there for two days instead of one.

In the afternoon, things started to get a bit confusing. We heard from fellow passengers that the trip we had booked for Monday had been moved to Sunday. We went to destination serviced who confirmed this and issued us with new tickets for Sunday, but were unable to offer anything for the Sunday, not even a shuttle bus into town until gone 11:00. Frustrated,

Fast forward to about 17:45, knock on the cabin door. Fellow passenger from the next cabin, telling us to get to destination serviced asap, because it had all changed again!

So trip that was originally booked for Monday, and then moved to Sunday, was moved back again to Monday! AND they did have trips available for the Sunday. We booked one, tour of Paracas nature reserve,

Destination services were a bit frazzled with all of the changes, but we were happy that we now had things to do for both days that we were in Paracas.

Went to dinner!

Sunday 15th Mar 2026 – Paracas

An extra day in Paracas because we couldn't stop at Arica.

The ship docked in a container port, across the bay from Paracas. It's 12 miles by road to get there, but free shuttle buses are laid on.

We had managed to book a trip for today, there wasn't a great choice, but a tour of the nature reserve was a good option. Meet in the Neptune lounge at 10:00 for a tour start time of 10:15.

We were on the bus and ready to go by 09:55.

The coach drove us into the nature reserve, the roads were really bumpy, being made of rock salt.

The first stop was a short walk around a fossil bed of what could have been whelks, quite interesting, and stunning dessert scenery.

The second stop was to a viewpoint overlooking cathedral rock, an island rock just a few metres of the shore. Many birds, cormorants and terns were perched on the rock. There were vultures circling overhead.

A short walk from the cathedral rock viewpoint was another viewpoint looking down over a bay.

The third stop was to a promontory overlooking the read beach, and a small fishing village on the other side of the bay. This was at the narrowest part of the Isthmus, and Borealis could be seen in the distance on the other side.

Then it was down to red beach, where Debbie had a short paddle in the Pacific.

Back to the ship in time for a late lunch, and enjoyable tour.

After lunch we got a shuttle bus into the town of Paracas. The shuttles went every half an hour and took about 20 minutes to travel the 12 miles to Paracas on the other side of the bay.

When we got into town, there was along queue of people waiting to go back to the ship.

We walked along the seafront, a very glitzy and brash affair with mainly overpriced bars and restaurants. We did see some interesting birds, but it wasn't long before we decided that there was nothing there for us and to head back to the ship.

We had to wait about 15 minutes for a bus, but got back to the ship quite easily.

Distance from home:6326 Miles

Monday 16th Mar 2026 – Paracas

The Ballestas Islands | GSM/A

Set off on an unforgettable journey to the Ballestas Islands, often called ‘Peru's Galápagos' for their stunning volcanic landscapes and rich wildlife. Board your boat and cruise across the shore, keeping a keen eye out for playful dolphins and a variety of seabirds. As you approach the islands, your expert guide will share fascinating insights into the diverse creatures that inhabit the area. Common species to encounter include sea lions, seals, and charming penguins, while pelicans and frigatebirds soar overhead, creating a truly immersive wildlife experience in a breathtaking natural setting.

Today we have got our rescheduled and rescheduled again boat trip out to the Ballestas islands. The tickets were for 09:45 with a 09:30 meeting time on the Neptune lounge. We were in the lounge by 09:15, were given stickers for bus 7 and went straight down to the bus. The bus left the terminal at 09:30!

The bus took us to a luxury hotel, which had it's own pier. We were quickly loaded onto a boat and were soon heading off.

We passed Borealis as we went and then the boat paused for a while at the candelabra geo glyph, on the side of a hill facing out to sea.

We then continued on our way towards the islands.

The boat took us all around the islands. We saw many marvellous sights, Humboldt penguins, Inca terns, seals, boobys.

The islands have many caves and arches, at one point we nosed into a cave which was full of nesting Inca terns.

We went to see a small family of seals perched on a rock

We saw a beach full of sea lions, male and female with their pups.

Then it was back the shore, pausing for a photo drift by Borealis and then back to the pier.

We were given the option to stay in town, but chose to head back to the ship.

Distance from home:6319 Miles

Tuesday 17th Mar 2026 – Callao

We had the alarm set for 06:00 but were woken up a quarter of an hour early by a 'Code Alpha' being broadcast through the cabins.

We waited until nearly 07:00 before heading up to the view for breakfast, we were there a few minutes before it opened.

We were docked in a busy industrial port, a lot of activity with lorries and containers moving everywhere.

We had breakfast in some relative peace and quiet. It was getting busier and busier so we finished our tea and went back to the room.

Lima Highlights | CLL/A

Discover the highlights of Peru's vibrant capital on this unforgettable exploration of Lima. Arrive at the historic Plaza Mayor, where the city was founded, and admire the impressive Presidential Palace and Archbishop's Palace. Visit the grand Cathedral of Lima, home to intricate Churrigueresque altars and exquisitely carved wooden choir stalls. With insight from your local guide, uncover Lima's rich heritage as you explore landmarks such as the Church of Santo Domingo. Continue with a scenic coach journey through the elegant residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores, known for their grand mansions, modern towers, and luxury hotels. Complete your experience at El Parque del Amor, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Today we embark on a city tour beginning with a visit to the Plaza Mayor, the official centre of the city and the site upon which Lima was founded. Here, we can see the Presidential Palace, and Archbishop's Palace (visits not included). We continue our adventure with a visit to the Cathedral of Lima. Entering by the main or central gateway, the ‘Door of Forgiveness,', or via one of two other massive doorways, you'll marvel at the magnificent Churriguerra altars and beautifully–carved wooden choir stalls. Then we will continue to the Church of Santo Domingo. Admire the beautifully decorated walls with Spanish tiles from the 17th century and relax in the silence this place radiates. After you leave colonial Lima, you will drive through the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. Both are suburbs where the rich and intelligentsia live. There are many large mansions, colonial buildings and fine hotels. Finally, you'll stop at El Parque del Amor for a great ocean view before finishing your tour.

It was an 08:00 meet time in the Neptune lounge for our tour, but as always we got there early. We sat and waited for the tour to be called. When it wa we headed down to find our coach, A1.

The itinerary for the tour listed a 75 minute drive into Lima, it took a bit longer, the traffic was manic, and we crawled along until the driver managed to break free from the traffic and drive down some back roads to our drop off point.

We walked past street vendors, selling drinks and snacks to Santa Domingo Convent, now an exquisitely preserved museum, with quiet gardens, cloisters and magnificent altars.

We spent some time there, before being led back out onto the streets of Lima. We were heading for Plaza Mayor, but our way was blocked by police barriers, so we had to turn back and find an alternative route. At this point we lost 2 of our group, so had to pause whilst the ship's representative, Marsha the drama teacher, went back to find them.

Once the group was intact again we continued to the side of the Plaza, which had been entirely cordoned off for some impending event.

We had to pass through police control to get to the cathedral.

The guide, Bart, took showed around the cathedral and down into the crypt.

Leaving the cathedral we walked back to the coach, which then took us to the Lovers Park. We had 15 minutes here to look around before getting back on the coach and been driven back to the port.

We were back on the ship for a late lunch.

Distance from home:6258 Miles

Wednesday 18th Mar 2026 – Callao

Lima Through Time | CLL/P

Step back in time and uncover the rich, layered history of Lima, from its colonial roots to its modern skyline. Begin at Casa Aliaga, the oldest continuously inhabited house in the Americas, home to 18 generations of the Aliaga family and filled with elegant décor and remarkable Peruvian art. With a knowledgeable local guide, explore this living piece of history before continuing to Casa Garcia Alvarado in the Miraflores district – a beautifully preserved early 20th–century mansion that reflects the city's Republican–era charm. Complete your journey in San Isidro and Casa Luna, where you'll be warmly welcomed by the resident family and invited to discover their extraordinary collection of niños manuelitos – charming nativity scenes from Peru and across the globe.

Our second day in Lima. Today's trip is Lima through time. We were on tour P2, but when we got to the coach tours P1 and P2 had been merged and were on the same bus.

It was the same slog as yesterday into the city centre, it took over an hour. We parked in more or less the same place as yesterday and were led on foot into the city centre.

The first stop was a house from the 16th century, which had been continuously occupied by the same family for 17 generations.

It was a gorgeous house with a beautiful courtyard and rooms.

After the house we had a brief walk around the centre to look at the mayor plaza as we had yesterday.

Then It was a walk back to the bus, which took us through the traffic to the second house, which was built in 1912, we were greeted by the elderly lady owner, who gave a brief introduction In excellent English, before being left to roam around the rooms. Casa Garcia.

Afterwards we were led into the courtyard where we were given pisco sours and snacks of empanadas.

The third house was different again, a modern house, but absolutely full of nativity scenes, 20000 of them that had been collected from around the world, incredible to see. Casa Luna

That was our last stop and we were driven back to the port.

It was late afternoon, so too late for lunch, but early enough for afternoon tea.

We lent on the rail on deck 3 and watched the activities of a busy port. And some workers trying to collect the rubbish that Borealis had neatly deposited on the quayside. A sight worthy of Laurel and Hardy, with bags of rubbish toppling around the place and the neatly packed bags being unpacked and manhandled one by one.

Dinner in the dining room, Maureen and Philip were back.

Distance from home:6856 Miles

Thursday 19th Mar 2026 – At Sea

Formal night, so fizz and eggs benedict for breakfast. Then sat and drank fizz and read until time to head down to ukulele. Debbie went to kitchen creations, bao buns, with Alison, and then sat and chatted in the botanical room.

Ukulele, practised songs for the concert on the 7th April.

Lunch in the view.

Formal night was a good menu, scallops for starters followed by steak diane, very nice.

Friday 20th Mar 2026 – At Sea

Equinox! Spring is here.

Went up for breakfast in the view. Those that had been up earlier had seen hundreds of dolphins, but we missed them.

Went to the astronomy talk, on how constellations got their names, not what I expected, but ok.

Then it was to ukulele, urban spaceman, country roads.

Being a Friday, fish and chips was on the menu, so went to the dining room. As a result missed the fin whales that came close by the port side!. Nice fish though!

In the afternoon, Debbie did the laundry, I stood outside on deck in the hope that more denizens of the deep would appear. A few dolphins in the distance, but nothing much.

Debbie didn't want to go out so ordered soup and a sandwich from room service. I went up to the view. Beautiful sunset and some dolphins near by.

Sat outside on the back deck for a while, lovely sky, waking crescent moon and Venus.

Stargazing tonight.

Saturday 21st Mar 2026 – At Sea

We had breakfast in the Lido buffet, eggs benedict. A quick look at our lat and long using the GPS on the phone indicated that we were only some 80 Km south of the equator, so we should be crossing it at some time around noon.

Stood outside on deck 3 to take pictures of any passing wildlife. The sea was glassy calm, like a mirror, only disturbed by the passage of the ship.

Saw mainly red footed boobies flying low over the sea and a small pod of dolphins came by.

The cruise director was doing a seven hour walk around the deck for charity, which started at 10, so it soon got quite noisy on deck.

Went in to get ready for ukulele.

Had lunch in the view and then back to the room for a rest.

Went outside again to see what could be seen, a few ships, but very little wildlife.

Went to ukulele in the afternoon.

We had dinner in the dining room. Just the two of us.

Back to the room.

Distance from home:5803 Miles

Quite a good show tonight, “The Class of 58”. Proper old fashioned rock and roll, mother, father and their two sons.

Monday 23rd Mar 2026 – At Sea

Docked in Amador at the entrance to the Panama Canal.

We were on a trip, but the meeting time was 09:10 in the Neptune lounge, so we had plenty of time for breakfast, which we had in the view.

As always we were in the Neptune lounge early, we needed stickers for today's trip, and were allocated to bus 10.

Aerial Tram | AMD/C

Set off on an unforgettable exploration of Gamboa Rainforest Resort, nestled within the lush Soberanía National Park, a protected area renowned for its incredible biodiversity and rich wildlife. Be welcomed by a refreshing cocktail before boarding the Aerial Tram for a breathtaking journey to the upper forest canopy, where spectacular views of the vibrant rainforest await. Continue your adventure by visiting the resort's captivating butterfly garden and sloth rescue centre, where dedicated conservationists work tirelessly to care for and protect these incredible creatures.

We were sent down to our bus before 09:00! We had to have our passports stamped by Panamanian immigration as we went through the terminal building, but it was a pretty quick process.

We got on our bus, and chose seats a fair way towards the back.

The drive to Gamboa reserve took about an hour, but there was a fair amount to see as we left panama city and headed along beside the canal.

As we were driving into Gamboa, through the abandoned town, we saw a couple of Agoutis rummaging around the old buildings, but it was too shadowy to attempt any photos from the coach.

We arrived at the resort hotel, for a welcoming drink of fruit juice. The hotel is situated in a lovely location, overlooking the river.

We were summoned back on the coach and driven down to the aerial tram. It was 6 people per car. Which took us haltingly through the forest.

At the far end of the line we got off and walked to a tower, which was about 12 stories high. It was a slow climb up as we were behind people with walking disabilities. It was a ramp which spiralled around the tower.

Lovely views from the top.

We walked back to the tram and boarded for the journey back. We saw a large iguana on the forest floor beneath us.

When all of bus 10 had made it back we were driven to the next part of the tour. This was a series of conservation projects.

The first one was for frogs, poisonous frogs, which were quite hard to spot, but we eventually managed to see the two different types.

Then we were shown the orchids.

Then on to the butterfly house, with its Blue Morph butterflies.

The last stop was to the sloth rescue sanctuary. One sloth was quite active as sloths go, and was fed a hibiscus flower, which it seemed to relish.

Then it was back on the bus fior the drive back to the port.

All in all, not bad trip.

We were back just in time for a late lunch in the view, about the only things still available was a curry from one oTf the made to order sections, lamb or chicked. We both opted for lamb, very nice it was too.

Because we'd had lunch so late, Debbie didn't want any dinner, so I went up alone at around 19:00 and had a very nice sweet and sour pork.

Distance from home:5220 Miles

Tuesday 24th Mar 2026 – Panama Canal

Today we travel through the Panama Canal. We had undocked at around 04:00, ready for an early transit.

The cruise director made an announcement at 07:30 that we were about to enter the first dock.

I went outside, as I was up already and saw that we hadn't passed under the Bridge of the Americas yet, which had been originally scheduled for 06:30.

We arrived at the first Miraflores lock at about 08:00, this is a two chamber lock that raised the ship 16 metres

We sailed the short distance across Miraflores Lake to the Pedro Miguel lock.

We then passed under the Centennial bridge

We sailed through the narrow Culebra cut until we joined the Chagres river, quite close to where we were yesterday.

We then entered Gamboa lake and then into Gatun lake.

Now it was just the Gatun locks to go, two chanbers that lower us down to the level of the Atlantic.

As we were leaving the locks, there was an announcement from the bridge that there was a crocodile on the starboard side, I failed to spot it, but saw other people's photos later on.

We sailed out into the Atlantic under the Atlantic Bridge.

Distance from home:5224 Miles

Wednesday 25th Mar 2026 – Port Limon

Costa Rica, no trips booked. The town is only 250 metres from the ship.

We left the ship and walked towards the terminal building. The Caribbean Princess was docked next to us, so it was fairly busy. A band was playing and there was the usual people trying to sell trips, but they weren't persistent if you said no.

There was a souvenir market in the terminal building, which we had a look around. Saw a couple of stalls selling cloth patches, which we made a mental note of for on the way back.

Outside of the port gate, there is Balvanero Vargas park. Quite a nice green space with plenty of birds and a few sloths in the trees.

We walked out of the park and headed into town, we tried the local market, but only a few stalls seemed to be open.

We headed out of the market and on to the streets.

We headed towards the Sacred Heart Cathedral, an interesting building, but very nice inside.

We walked back to the park and wandered around looking for birds and sloths, and then headed back to the ship.

There were iguanas in the harbour

Distance from home:5319 Miles

Thursday 26th Mar 2026 – Colon

The tour wasn't until 10:30, so there we were in no hurry to get up. A leisurely breakfast in the view. Went to the Neptune lounge and got stickers for our tour, Fort San Lorenzo.

Fort San Lorenzo | ONX/M

Visit the ruins of Fort San Lorenzo, an outstanding example of Spanish Colonial military architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Journey through the former US Army Base of Fort Sherman before making your way through dense tropical forest to reach the 400–year–old remains of Fort San Lorenzo. Surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and over 30,000 acres of protected rainforest, this fascinating historical site is not only great for exploration but is also an excellent place for birdwatching. As you explore, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into what life was like here throughout its tumultuous history.

The coach was like an old school bus. It was a bit cramped but not to bad.

It took us about an hour to get to the fort, we crossed over the entrance to the Panama Canal on the Atlantic Bridge.

At the fort we watched a brief video of the fort, a 16th century Spanish fort that had recently been restored.

It commanded good views of the Chagra river.

The guide was very informative and took us around the lower levels first, it was baking in the sun.

There were many birds to be seen, and again the view were magnificent.

We climbed up steps to the top level and then out of the fort.

We boarded the bus for the hour long drive back to the ship.

Distance from home:5223 Miles

Friday 27th Mar 2026 – Cartagena

We weren't due to dock until 14:00, so the morning had a sea day air to it.

Even had ukulele in the morning.

After the ship had docked and been cleared, we walked off the ship at around 15:00.

We had been here before, so knew that there was a bird sanctuary within the park, so we had decided that that would be all that we would do.

Lots of parrots and macaws flying free. Many many peacocks too.

There was an enclosed walk through aviary which had some interesting birds, including a spoonbill.

Out of the aviary there were flamingoes. But the most endearing animals were a pair of giant anteaters with there baby. We saw the baby climb out of the pen and walk along the handrail and jump off into a wooded area.

We sat down and had a beer, and then walked around again.

Distance from home:4971 Miles

Saturday 28th Mar 2026 – Cartagena

We'd been in port overnight.

Views of Cartagena | CTG/M

Journey to the ancient La Popa Monastery, perched on a hilltop and offering sweeping views over Cartagena de Indias. Continue to the impressive San Felipe de Barajas Fortress for a brief photo stop before heading to the vibrant Getsemaní neighbourhood. Just outside the old city walls, Getsemaní has become a bohemian hub filled with street art, from tropical birds to striking murals of colourfully dressed Afro–Colombian women. Refresh yourself with a traditional Colombian ice cream while passing through the scenic Manga neighbourhood bay, known for its elegant mansions and peaceful waterfront views.

Our meeting time for our trip was 09:45, but as always we got there early.

We were on the coach and away by 09:30! The coaches were minibuses, there were 17 passengers per coach.

We were driven up to the highest point in Cartagena, which had a monastery build at the peek. From here we had good views over the city. We could look down on the vultures.

The monastery, Convento de Santa Crus de la Popa, was interesting, and still used for religious services.

After the monastery we were driven down to Fort San Felipe, here we were given 15 minutes to walk around. Not enough time to go into the fort, only had time to take a few pictures form street level, before having to get back on the bus.

We were taken to the Gethsemini district of the old town. This is the more bohemian sector, with colourful houses and murals. The walls were lined with pictures for sale.

It was an interesting walk, this part of the city seems very different from the rest of the city.

We walked to a cafe, were we were given an ice cream, Debbie had coffee, I had lemonade and mint.

Back to the ship for a shower and change of clothes.

Distance from home:4971 Miles

Monday 30th Mar 2026 – Wilhelmsted

Walked off the ship at just after 09:00.

It was a short walk into town, through Rif fort and across Queen Emma Bridge.

We walked up to the floating market, a mixture of real local market and tourist tat.

Then down towards the park and back towards the bridge.

The bridge had been opened to allow a ship to pass through, so we watched and waited for it to close.

Back on the other side we walked around to look at some of the wall murals and local architecture.

Found some decorated steps.

Had to turn round, and then follow some back streets to find our way back to the ship.

A nice walk through an interesting town.

Had dinner in the dining room, just us two. The ship was leaving port as we were eating.

Distance from home:4596 Miles

Wednesday 1st April 2026 – At Bequia

Bequia Scenic Tour | BEQ/B

Discover the wonders of Bequia and the Grenadines on a scenic journey through breathtaking landscapes and vibrant island culture. Travel past historic Hamilton Fort to Mount Pleasant, where panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and nearby islands await. Continue to the charming Pagent Farm Community, where you can immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the island's oldest fishing community. Complete your experience with a refreshing drink at the rustic Whalebone Bar, known for its unique decor.

A tender port. There was quite a bit of swell, so getting from ship to tender was a slow process. But we got ashore in due course

We were on a tour so were sent down to the tenders en masse. Once on shore we were loaded onto jeeps, we had 7 plus a guide.

Its a tiny island, only 7 square miles. First stop was mount pleasant. A headland overlooking some of the smaller islands and keys.

We were then taken to a small fishing community, where the were many birds. Whalebones (they still take a couple of humpbacks per year) and colourful boats.

Then it was on to the Whaleboner bar for a rum punch, and views over the harbour.

The final stop was for Hamilton. The site of an old fort overlooking the harbour.

Once back at the pier we decided against walking the high street as there didn't appear to be much there, so go the tender back to the ship.

The Artemis launch was scheduled for 18:24, so I went up to deck 11, in case anything should be visible. I monitored the launch on BBC news, so new exactly when to look out for it. But as expected, there was nothing to be seen. There were a few other people on the deck too, as well as others on other outside decks.

We had a late dinner in the view.

Distance from home:4222 Miles

Thursday 2nd April 2026 – At Antigua

Antiguan Local Life | SJO/Z

Immerse yourself in authentic Antiguan life as you explore the island's vital farming and agricultural heritage. Visit the charming Smith's Estate, a working cattle and sheep farm where you'll gain insight into daily life for local farmers. At nearby Claremont Farm, sample Antigua's famous black pineapples—exceptionally sweet, low in acidity, and bursting with tropical flavour. Complete your experience at Weatherills Estate, once one of the island's most productive sugar mills, and see a restored windmill that can be climbed for sweeping views over Antigua's lush landscapes.

On a tour so headed to the Neptune lounge, we hadn't been there long when our tour was called, 20 minutes early!

We headed outside and lined up on the quay, 18 of us in a minibus for the

The minibus wasn't very comfortable.

First stop was to Smiths Farm, a 500 acre farm, to visit the McKenzie's, Husband and Wife, house. They had lived there since 1972, the house was full of memorabilia of their lives.

The second stop was to Claremont farm, and a farmer who grew Antiguan Black Pineapples. A variety unique to Antigua. We had some to sample and it was delicious, not at all fibrous like ordinary pineapple, and very sweet.

We were driven through the rainforest to the Weatherill's estate, a former sugar plantation. The windmill had been restored as a modern attraction, with the sails driven by a motor.

A tree next to the windmill was in flower, and hosted dozens of hummingbirds.

We went inside for a rum punch.

Then we were driven back to the pier.

Distance from home:4031 Miles

Friday 3rd April 2026 – St. Martin

We hadn't got a trip booked for today, and weren't inclined to do much, so we just walked out into the port area and browsed around the duty free shops.

Came back and showered, before going for a fish and chip lunch in the dining room.

Distance from home:4030 Miles

Sunday 5th April 2026 – At Sea

Easter Sunday.

Not much for us going on in the day, so sat and read in the Botanical room.

There was curry outside at the back for lunch, but the queue was too long was had some lasagne.

Cocktail reception at 17:00 for Oceans members, which is now everyone on board! They were quite generous with the G&Ts and sherry for Debbie.

Nice dinner in the dining room, with M&P. Souvenir Easter menus to keep.

I wasn't feeling too great, so Debbie went on this trip by herself.

Highlights of the Island | PDL/

Discover the magical landscape of the island of São Miguel with its vast peaks, dense tropical jungle, and sapphire blue lakes. Visit one of the most beautiful sights of the Azores, the Fire Lake, ‘Lagoa do Fogo' – a huge body of water that fills the ground of an extinct crater; Caldeira Velha, a natural monument in a lush tropical valley with warm waterfalls and picturesque hot springs; and the Gorreana Tea Factory, the only tea plantation in Europe, where you will learn the family's production secrets, whilst enjoying a cup of tea and slice of pineapple cake. 

40–minute coach drive to Fire Lake

15–minute stop at Fire Lake

10–minute coach drive to Caldeira Velha

30–minute stop at Caldeira Velha

35–minute coach drive to Gorreana Tea Plantation

1–hour stop at Gorreana Tea Plantation

10–minute coach drive to Santa Iria Belvedere

10–minute stop at Santa Iria Belvedere

30–minute coach drive back to the pier 

First stop was meant to be Lagoa Do Fogo, it was very foggy there, so didn't stay long.

Quickly moved on to Caldeira Velha, hot springs

Then on to the tea factory

A quick stop at Santa Iria viewpoint

And finally back to the lakes, now that the fog has lifted.

Distance from home:1484 Miles

Today was mostly spent packing.

We had dinner in the dining room with Maureen and Philip, said our goodbyes and exchanged contact details.

Handed out tips to Jinky and Marvel and thanked them for looking after us.

he adventure is over, time to get off.

The bags had been packed and put outside our door the night before. We'd put priority labels on them, so they would have been off loaded first.

We were awake really early, about 5'ish. We had some fruit left in the room which we had for breakfast.

We walked around the promenade deck, we were docked in Southampton, and the air bridge was in place.

We had to go through immigration, which involved having our passports inspected. This was to be in the Neptune lounge starting at 07:30.

We went to the Neptune lounge early, before 07:00 and started to queue, we were second in the queue!

We were in to immigration as soon as they started and were given a red ticket to indicate we'd been seen.

Back to the cabin to pick up our hand luggage and straight off the ship. All very easy.

Our luggage was in the priority section in the baggage hall and we went outside to get a taxi.

The taxi driver moaned about it being such a short trip to the Redjet, and charged us extra because of the amount of luggage we had.

We got to the Redjet just as one was pulling in, and were able to get straight on.

We were soon back on the Island, and home at around 09:00.

Throughout, the cruise, on sea days, Kitchen Creations, cookery demonstrations showcased some of the dishes served in the restaurants. Here are the recipes for the ones that Debbie went to.

Throughout the cruise we always had a team of two people from Ocean Wildlife Encounters on board. Because this was a long cruise we had five different teams.

They gave talks, but spent most of their time on deck looking out for wildlife and cataloguing what they saw.

These logs were collated at the end of the cruise.