Epilogue
I am now back home in New Maryland, in the land of ice and snow. I still cannot believe how quickly these 48 days have flown by.
What can I say about this trip, the cruise of a lifetime for me......so far! I have nothing but praise for the Mariner and her Master, Captain Johnny. The weather was all we could have wished for, and the experience of sailing around Cape Horn is one I will never forget.
The ports of call in South America were simple wonderful, and I have no doubt that I will return to many of them in the future. Rio de Janairo, Buenos Aires, Montevideo, and Ushuaia hold many fond memories for me, as do the other new ports that we were priveleged to visit.
And last but not least, the Hornblowers. What a great group of people, strangers who became friends, and then became an extended family. I would sail with each and every one of them again in a heartbeat, and hope to do so someday. There is talk of a reunion in the future, and I hope that I can be there to re-live the wonderful experiences of sailing the Mariner.....
,,,,,,,AROUND THE HORN.
Thanks for following. I hope you enjoyed my journal, and I promise to post a link to a photo slideshow as soon as I sift through 2500 images and 2 hours of video.
See you next time.
Cindy
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Around the Horn
February 19th, 2009: Disembarkation
I was up early to watch the Mariner make her way into port, as Captain Johnny maneuvered her down the channel in reverse. Ships have to back into the port here since the channel is too narrow for 360 degree turns. I saw a lovely sunrise over the port of San Pedro as the Mariner sailed into her new home. I feel very priveleged to have been able to sail with her on this historic journey.
After spending 50 minutes in line for immigration, which was done in the dining rooms on deck 4 and 5, Dave and I headed up to the Windjammer for one last breakfast while overlooking the port. Gathering up our belongings, we said goodbye to Sheldon, our room steward, and I hugged Sam, who had looked after the Diva Suite for all of our 46 day journey. We met other friends as we made our way to the waiting area, and were off the ship and on our transfer bus by 11 a.m. We planned to stay the night at the Marriot LAX to relax before flying home on Friday.
On a very sad note, we acknowledged the passing of one of our Hornblower members on the night we left Cabo San Lucas. Ken had not been feeling well for several days, and passed peacefully in his sleep at the age of 67. We had been accompanied on the whole journey by Father Dale, a Catholic priest who had been performing Masses and services, and he was now able to minister to Ken's wife Pene. A small comfort was the knowledge that Ken had spent his final days doing what he loved, sailing on a magnificent ship with friends. A minute of silence was for Ken was held at the last DVD viewing.
I was up early to watch the Mariner make her way into port, as Captain Johnny maneuvered her down the channel in reverse. Ships have to back into the port here since the channel is too narrow for 360 degree turns. I saw a lovely sunrise over the port of San Pedro as the Mariner sailed into her new home. I feel very priveleged to have been able to sail with her on this historic journey.
After spending 50 minutes in line for immigration, which was done in the dining rooms on deck 4 and 5, Dave and I headed up to the Windjammer for one last breakfast while overlooking the port. Gathering up our belongings, we said goodbye to Sheldon, our room steward, and I hugged Sam, who had looked after the Diva Suite for all of our 46 day journey. We met other friends as we made our way to the waiting area, and were off the ship and on our transfer bus by 11 a.m. We planned to stay the night at the Marriot LAX to relax before flying home on Friday.
On a very sad note, we acknowledged the passing of one of our Hornblower members on the night we left Cabo San Lucas. Ken had not been feeling well for several days, and passed peacefully in his sleep at the age of 67. We had been accompanied on the whole journey by Father Dale, a Catholic priest who had been performing Masses and services, and he was now able to minister to Ken's wife Pene. A small comfort was the knowledge that Ken had spent his final days doing what he loved, sailing on a magnificent ship with friends. A minute of silence was for Ken was held at the last DVD viewing.
Around the Horn
Day 46: At Sea
Our last day on the Mothership.Though the weather was nice, the ship was rocking and rolling as we sped up the coast to Los Angeles. Due to overindulgence the night before, I could not tolerate the motion and was barely able to make it to the last DVD showing for the Hornblowers. I passed on the last Team Trivia and went back to bed to let the Gravol take effect, while Dave packed up.
When I could once again tolerate being upright, Dave helped me retrieve my luggage and belongings from the Diva Suite and get things packed for disembarkation. I had purchased a third bag to send home full of laundry in order to pack my suitcase full of 'treasures'. We skipped the Lotus Lounge and went straight to the dining room to "The Last Supper", as it was dubbed, although our friend Paul from Texas counted the 10 people around our table and announced "We're missing two" :)
We attended the Farewell show in the Savoy Theatre and then went to the Lotus Lounge where the Hornblowers had agreed to meet to say good-bye. We each received a 3-page list of email addresses from Letty, and everyone promised to keep in touch.We made it an early night, saying our farewells to friends as we met them on our way back to the cabin.
Tomorrow : Los Angeles, the End of the Line
Our last day on the Mothership.Though the weather was nice, the ship was rocking and rolling as we sped up the coast to Los Angeles. Due to overindulgence the night before, I could not tolerate the motion and was barely able to make it to the last DVD showing for the Hornblowers. I passed on the last Team Trivia and went back to bed to let the Gravol take effect, while Dave packed up.
When I could once again tolerate being upright, Dave helped me retrieve my luggage and belongings from the Diva Suite and get things packed for disembarkation. I had purchased a third bag to send home full of laundry in order to pack my suitcase full of 'treasures'. We skipped the Lotus Lounge and went straight to the dining room to "The Last Supper", as it was dubbed, although our friend Paul from Texas counted the 10 people around our table and announced "We're missing two" :)
We attended the Farewell show in the Savoy Theatre and then went to the Lotus Lounge where the Hornblowers had agreed to meet to say good-bye. We each received a 3-page list of email addresses from Letty, and everyone promised to keep in touch.We made it an early night, saying our farewells to friends as we met them on our way back to the cabin.
Tomorrow : Los Angeles, the End of the Line
Around the Horn
Day 45: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Another exquisite day and beautiful sunrise greeted us in Cabo San Lucas. After catching an early morning tender boat, we waited on the pier for our 'ride' for the morning....a 72-foot yacht named the Marlin Master 5.
After being given a few guidelines by the tour coordinator, we stepped onto our home for the next 3 and 1/2 hours. Being told by the crew member that we were welcome to sit at the bow of the boat, Dave and I headed for a padded bench in the prime location. followed by 2 other couples.
The sun was glorious and the sea calm, as we headed out to our snorkeling destination off Land's End, a bay several miles away. Our course was abruptly altered, however, by the appearance of whale spouts off the bow. We headed in that direction and were rewarded with the sightings of several whales rolling and displaying their flukes. We were also taken out to see the sad sight of a dead whale floating in the bay, and while it was not a nice thing to witness, it did give us an excellent opportunity to see the real size of these giants.
Again we were alerted to whales ahead, and raced toward a smaller zodiac-type whale watching vessel. All of a sudden we were thrilled to see whales breach out of the water directly ahead, and stayed for several minutes watching the breathtaking spectacle, snapping photos and taking as much video as we possibly could. A mother and calf swam in front of us, with the baby putting on a great show as Mom glided though the water beside him. This was an unexpected bonus, as the tour was not designated as a 'whale-watching trip'.
After the excitement of the whales, we headed to the bay, and were again thrilled to have dolphins race along beside us, darting back and forth under the bow. Once we reached the cove, the anchor was dropped and we enjoyed several rounds of margaritas and a snack while the snorkelers and swimmers enjoyed the calm waters. We stayed for about an hour and a half, and then reluctantly were taken back to the pier.
Once on land we shopped a bit and then went off to find Solomon's Landing, a local restaurant where the Hornblower fisherman were to meet with their catch for lunch. The freshest fish one could possibly get were then cooked up and served to about 30 of our friends, along with margaritas and lots of laughter. A great day in one of our favourite Mexican ports.
The fun continued long into the night and ended eventually at the Dragon's Lair disco......or so I am told :)
Tomorrow: At Sea
Another exquisite day and beautiful sunrise greeted us in Cabo San Lucas. After catching an early morning tender boat, we waited on the pier for our 'ride' for the morning....a 72-foot yacht named the Marlin Master 5.
After being given a few guidelines by the tour coordinator, we stepped onto our home for the next 3 and 1/2 hours. Being told by the crew member that we were welcome to sit at the bow of the boat, Dave and I headed for a padded bench in the prime location. followed by 2 other couples.
The sun was glorious and the sea calm, as we headed out to our snorkeling destination off Land's End, a bay several miles away. Our course was abruptly altered, however, by the appearance of whale spouts off the bow. We headed in that direction and were rewarded with the sightings of several whales rolling and displaying their flukes. We were also taken out to see the sad sight of a dead whale floating in the bay, and while it was not a nice thing to witness, it did give us an excellent opportunity to see the real size of these giants.
Again we were alerted to whales ahead, and raced toward a smaller zodiac-type whale watching vessel. All of a sudden we were thrilled to see whales breach out of the water directly ahead, and stayed for several minutes watching the breathtaking spectacle, snapping photos and taking as much video as we possibly could. A mother and calf swam in front of us, with the baby putting on a great show as Mom glided though the water beside him. This was an unexpected bonus, as the tour was not designated as a 'whale-watching trip'.
After the excitement of the whales, we headed to the bay, and were again thrilled to have dolphins race along beside us, darting back and forth under the bow. Once we reached the cove, the anchor was dropped and we enjoyed several rounds of margaritas and a snack while the snorkelers and swimmers enjoyed the calm waters. We stayed for about an hour and a half, and then reluctantly were taken back to the pier.
Once on land we shopped a bit and then went off to find Solomon's Landing, a local restaurant where the Hornblower fisherman were to meet with their catch for lunch. The freshest fish one could possibly get were then cooked up and served to about 30 of our friends, along with margaritas and lots of laughter. A great day in one of our favourite Mexican ports.
The fun continued long into the night and ended eventually at the Dragon's Lair disco......or so I am told :)
Tomorrow: At Sea
Around the Horn
Day 44: At Sea
Another beautiful sunny day off the coast of Mexico. Another Team Trivia challenge, and then a very important event....the "Finish Your Cabin Liquour" afternoon party in the Royal Family Suite, or the Diva Suite as it has been dubbed. It was designated "BYOIB" or Bring Your Own Ice Bucket", and was widely attended by many happy Hornblowers. Carol ordered snacks from room service and many new and inventive drinks were poured i.e. Mango vodka mixed with Champagne, and Pears vodka with Crystal Light Raspberry Ice. At 3:30 we trooped off to the Lotus Lounge to cheer on our own Doris (or Dorass as she prefers to be called) in the Passenger Talent Show. Doris was a smash hit with the audience as she told many of her favourite jokes.
In a surprising turn of events, several other Hornblowers were recruited to do an alleged 'dance number' and a "New York, New York" kickline (yours truly included). No doubt the aforementioned Suite party played a role in that particular fiasco.
This was the third and final formal night of the last leg, and for the last time the Hornblowers donned their finest and hit the pubs, clubs and bars for late-night music and drinks.
Tomorrow: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Another beautiful sunny day off the coast of Mexico. Another Team Trivia challenge, and then a very important event....the "Finish Your Cabin Liquour" afternoon party in the Royal Family Suite, or the Diva Suite as it has been dubbed. It was designated "BYOIB" or Bring Your Own Ice Bucket", and was widely attended by many happy Hornblowers. Carol ordered snacks from room service and many new and inventive drinks were poured i.e. Mango vodka mixed with Champagne, and Pears vodka with Crystal Light Raspberry Ice. At 3:30 we trooped off to the Lotus Lounge to cheer on our own Doris (or Dorass as she prefers to be called) in the Passenger Talent Show. Doris was a smash hit with the audience as she told many of her favourite jokes.
In a surprising turn of events, several other Hornblowers were recruited to do an alleged 'dance number' and a "New York, New York" kickline (yours truly included). No doubt the aforementioned Suite party played a role in that particular fiasco.
This was the third and final formal night of the last leg, and for the last time the Hornblowers donned their finest and hit the pubs, clubs and bars for late-night music and drinks.
Tomorrow: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Around the Horn
Day 43: Acupulco, Mexico
Our very busy stay in Acupulco had us up early in order to catch our first tour of the day, the Interactive Sea Turtle Release. We boarded a bus for the 45-minute ride through the city and beautiful residential areas to the Sea Turtle Centre, where we were given a brief orientation on the mandate and the operation of the Centre. Our guide gave us facts, figures and information about the 8 species of Sea Turtles in general, and particularly the 2 species which come to the Acupulco area to lay their eggs each year, the Golfina (smallest of the species) and the Leatherback (largest). We were to release the newly-hatched Golfinas and escort them to their new home in the ocean.
The marine biologist who runs the facility goes out each evening during the hatching season and retrieves eggs from the new nests made by the female Golfinas.He then transfers the eggs to nests in an area secure from predators, and places a sign over each nest to indicate the exact date of hatching. Baby sea turtles must be released into the ocean on the very day they hatch, otherwise they will lose their imprinted orientation and will never return to the same hatching ground. Left alone to hatch in the wild, only 1 of 100 babies would make it safely to the ocean, and only 3 of 1000 will return to the same beach 8 years later to lay eggs.
Our excited group was told to line up at a flagged rope along the beautiful beach and each person was then handed a baby turtle, having been shown how to hold them between thumb and finger. The babies flapped excitedly, anxious to get to the water, as we were allowed to name them and pose for photos and video. Then, on the signal of our guide, we released our precious babies and cheered them on as they hurried to the ocean. Dave's turtle, Thing 2, raced to the water and mine, Thing 1, followed behind as we recorded their progress.
While all 40 or so babies made it safely to the ocean, one poor soul was scooped up by a passing frigate bird, much to the horror of a little girl who witnessed the capture. As her mother tried to console her. the rest of our group headed back to the centre for a beverage and snack before being bussed back to the ship.
After a lunch aboard the Mariner, we joined our second tour of the day, a much more leasurely trip on a sailboat to Acupulco Bay. The winds were favourable and we sped under full sail to a quiet cove near an island.We anchored in ordered to let people snorkel and swim, or just enjoy the beautiful views and the Mexican sunshine. We could not resist the urge to phone family back home and say hello from our seats on the sailboat in sunny Acupulco.
Back on the ship, we prepared to spend an evening at Chops with our new Hornblower friends from Colorado, Vicki and Woody, to celebrate Vicki's birthday. At the next table sat 88-year-old actress Carol Channing, who was onboard with the Film Festival and sang Happy Birthday to a delighted Vicki.
Tomorrow: At Sea
Our very busy stay in Acupulco had us up early in order to catch our first tour of the day, the Interactive Sea Turtle Release. We boarded a bus for the 45-minute ride through the city and beautiful residential areas to the Sea Turtle Centre, where we were given a brief orientation on the mandate and the operation of the Centre. Our guide gave us facts, figures and information about the 8 species of Sea Turtles in general, and particularly the 2 species which come to the Acupulco area to lay their eggs each year, the Golfina (smallest of the species) and the Leatherback (largest). We were to release the newly-hatched Golfinas and escort them to their new home in the ocean.
The marine biologist who runs the facility goes out each evening during the hatching season and retrieves eggs from the new nests made by the female Golfinas.He then transfers the eggs to nests in an area secure from predators, and places a sign over each nest to indicate the exact date of hatching. Baby sea turtles must be released into the ocean on the very day they hatch, otherwise they will lose their imprinted orientation and will never return to the same hatching ground. Left alone to hatch in the wild, only 1 of 100 babies would make it safely to the ocean, and only 3 of 1000 will return to the same beach 8 years later to lay eggs.
Our excited group was told to line up at a flagged rope along the beautiful beach and each person was then handed a baby turtle, having been shown how to hold them between thumb and finger. The babies flapped excitedly, anxious to get to the water, as we were allowed to name them and pose for photos and video. Then, on the signal of our guide, we released our precious babies and cheered them on as they hurried to the ocean. Dave's turtle, Thing 2, raced to the water and mine, Thing 1, followed behind as we recorded their progress.
While all 40 or so babies made it safely to the ocean, one poor soul was scooped up by a passing frigate bird, much to the horror of a little girl who witnessed the capture. As her mother tried to console her. the rest of our group headed back to the centre for a beverage and snack before being bussed back to the ship.
After a lunch aboard the Mariner, we joined our second tour of the day, a much more leasurely trip on a sailboat to Acupulco Bay. The winds were favourable and we sped under full sail to a quiet cove near an island.We anchored in ordered to let people snorkel and swim, or just enjoy the beautiful views and the Mexican sunshine. We could not resist the urge to phone family back home and say hello from our seats on the sailboat in sunny Acupulco.
Back on the ship, we prepared to spend an evening at Chops with our new Hornblower friends from Colorado, Vicki and Woody, to celebrate Vicki's birthday. At the next table sat 88-year-old actress Carol Channing, who was onboard with the Film Festival and sang Happy Birthday to a delighted Vicki.
Tomorrow: At Sea
Around the Horn
Day 41 and 42: At Sea
Two more glorious days of sun and shipboard activities on our way to Acupulco. Two more days to soak up the sun, participate in Team Trivia, hang out in the Lotus Lounge with our many Hornblower friends, and finally recuperate from the respiratory ailments that have been plaguing us both.
Day 42 was also Valentines' Day, and I was presented with gifts of beautiful jewelry to celebrate the occasion. Yes, I am a spoiled and very lucky woman :) We passed the late afternoon hours with spa treatments and then dressed for a delicious dinner in Chops Steakhouse. Once again the service and meal surpassed all expectations.
Tomorrow: Acupulco, Mexico
Two more glorious days of sun and shipboard activities on our way to Acupulco. Two more days to soak up the sun, participate in Team Trivia, hang out in the Lotus Lounge with our many Hornblower friends, and finally recuperate from the respiratory ailments that have been plaguing us both.
Day 42 was also Valentines' Day, and I was presented with gifts of beautiful jewelry to celebrate the occasion. Yes, I am a spoiled and very lucky woman :) We passed the late afternoon hours with spa treatments and then dressed for a delicious dinner in Chops Steakhouse. Once again the service and meal surpassed all expectations.
Tomorrow: Acupulco, Mexico
Friday, February 13, 2009
Around the Horn
Day 40: Costa Rica
A beautiful, hot morning greeted us in Puntarenas, Cost Rica. Our original port was supposed to be Puerto Caldera, but the occupation of the berth by a freighter which is reported to be aground, has led to a change of venue for the Mariner. It makes no difference in the days' activities, since the two ports are only 5 miles apart.
Our tour for today was one that is sponsored by the ship, a trip into the mountains near San Jose to visit a working coffee plantation. We had done a similar excursion in Guatemala last February, and were looking forward to the same type of experience.
A two-hour bus ride to the plantation turned into 3 hours due to road construction, but that just meant that we had more time to admire the lush countryside of the province of Puntarenas. Our guide Gilberth spoke excellent english and the driver Gavriel was an expert at easing the 50-passenger motorcoach along the winding Pan-American Highway. Gilberth gave us a running narrative of the history, culture, economics and social aspects of his country.
We arrived at the plantation and were greeted by an enthusiastic staff who handed us delicious iced coffee and fresh fruit as we disembarked from the bus. They gave us a lively tour of the coffee fields and the harvesting and drying processes, even recruiting some of us as 'migrant workers' to rake the coffee beans as the husks dried in the sun. We were then driven to the roasting facility with its heavenly aromas, and taken the rest of the way through the process. A delicious lunch of traditional Costa Rican fare (fish, chicken, beef, rice, beans and fresh fruit) and a trip to the gift shop to purchase Cafe Brit coffee rounded out our trip to the plantation, and we boarded the bus to return to the ship.
Once again our 2-hour bus drive back to the port was extended. After a 25 minute rest stop at a great souvenir store, we were once again on the Pan-American Highway. Unfortunately there had been a traffic accident with a fatality, and the road was blocked for 2 hours. Captain Johnny held the Mariner in port until we returned to the dock, and we hurried onboard to enable him to set sail for Acupulco.
Despite the setbacks and the late return to the ship, we had a great day and I did a lot of shopping at the little souvcnir store. We also came away with samples of the delicious Costa Rican coffee .
Tomorrow: At Sea
A beautiful, hot morning greeted us in Puntarenas, Cost Rica. Our original port was supposed to be Puerto Caldera, but the occupation of the berth by a freighter which is reported to be aground, has led to a change of venue for the Mariner. It makes no difference in the days' activities, since the two ports are only 5 miles apart.
Our tour for today was one that is sponsored by the ship, a trip into the mountains near San Jose to visit a working coffee plantation. We had done a similar excursion in Guatemala last February, and were looking forward to the same type of experience.
A two-hour bus ride to the plantation turned into 3 hours due to road construction, but that just meant that we had more time to admire the lush countryside of the province of Puntarenas. Our guide Gilberth spoke excellent english and the driver Gavriel was an expert at easing the 50-passenger motorcoach along the winding Pan-American Highway. Gilberth gave us a running narrative of the history, culture, economics and social aspects of his country.
We arrived at the plantation and were greeted by an enthusiastic staff who handed us delicious iced coffee and fresh fruit as we disembarked from the bus. They gave us a lively tour of the coffee fields and the harvesting and drying processes, even recruiting some of us as 'migrant workers' to rake the coffee beans as the husks dried in the sun. We were then driven to the roasting facility with its heavenly aromas, and taken the rest of the way through the process. A delicious lunch of traditional Costa Rican fare (fish, chicken, beef, rice, beans and fresh fruit) and a trip to the gift shop to purchase Cafe Brit coffee rounded out our trip to the plantation, and we boarded the bus to return to the ship.
Once again our 2-hour bus drive back to the port was extended. After a 25 minute rest stop at a great souvenir store, we were once again on the Pan-American Highway. Unfortunately there had been a traffic accident with a fatality, and the road was blocked for 2 hours. Captain Johnny held the Mariner in port until we returned to the dock, and we hurried onboard to enable him to set sail for Acupulco.
Despite the setbacks and the late return to the ship, we had a great day and I did a lot of shopping at the little souvcnir store. We also came away with samples of the delicious Costa Rican coffee .
Tomorrow: At Sea
Around the Horn
Day 38 & 39 : At Sea
Two more days to rest and recover from this respiratory ailment that has enveloped the ship. Dave now has it too, and many others, like me, are experiencing Round 2.
We spend our sea days lounging by the pool after breakfast, then going for a refreshing dip in the Solarium Pool to cool off before showering and heading to Team Trivia, lunch and whatever afternoon activities catch our eye on the Cruise Compass schedule.
On the evening of day 38 we made sure we were front and centre for a performance by the Royal Caribbean singers and dancers in the production "Front Row". This medley of songs and dances from famous contemporary shows is always a treat, and the young people in the dance cast performed to their best even though one of their members was missing, sick with the same ailment that is running through the ship and their dance troup. This was the last performance of Front Row for this particular troup. as most of them will finish their current contracts in L.A. when the Mariner arrives there. Most will take a brief vacation and then begin auditions with new castmates in another Royal Caribbean production on another ship.
On day 39 we attended a special guest appearance by Oscar-winning actress Cloris Leachman, a one-woman show chronicling her life in show business. Ms. Leachman is 82 and although getting a little forgetful (two teleprompters enabled her to keep her monologue running along somewhat smoothly) and certainly moving a little slower these days, she entertained a full Savoy Theatre for 2 solid hours of stories, songs, and film clips. She was given a standing ovation and many hugs and handshakes from fans who stood in line after the show to meet her. We were told that Cloris would disembark in Costa Rica and our new guest headliner, Carol Channing, would be joining us there.
After the show, the Hornblowers gathered in the Schooner Bar for the second and final Pub/Poker Crawl, which was won by Sue with high hand and Beryl from Australia with low hand.
Tomorrow : Costa Rica
Two more days to rest and recover from this respiratory ailment that has enveloped the ship. Dave now has it too, and many others, like me, are experiencing Round 2.
We spend our sea days lounging by the pool after breakfast, then going for a refreshing dip in the Solarium Pool to cool off before showering and heading to Team Trivia, lunch and whatever afternoon activities catch our eye on the Cruise Compass schedule.
On the evening of day 38 we made sure we were front and centre for a performance by the Royal Caribbean singers and dancers in the production "Front Row". This medley of songs and dances from famous contemporary shows is always a treat, and the young people in the dance cast performed to their best even though one of their members was missing, sick with the same ailment that is running through the ship and their dance troup. This was the last performance of Front Row for this particular troup. as most of them will finish their current contracts in L.A. when the Mariner arrives there. Most will take a brief vacation and then begin auditions with new castmates in another Royal Caribbean production on another ship.
On day 39 we attended a special guest appearance by Oscar-winning actress Cloris Leachman, a one-woman show chronicling her life in show business. Ms. Leachman is 82 and although getting a little forgetful (two teleprompters enabled her to keep her monologue running along somewhat smoothly) and certainly moving a little slower these days, she entertained a full Savoy Theatre for 2 solid hours of stories, songs, and film clips. She was given a standing ovation and many hugs and handshakes from fans who stood in line after the show to meet her. We were told that Cloris would disembark in Costa Rica and our new guest headliner, Carol Channing, would be joining us there.
After the show, the Hornblowers gathered in the Schooner Bar for the second and final Pub/Poker Crawl, which was won by Sue with high hand and Beryl from Australia with low hand.
Tomorrow : Costa Rica
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Around the Horn
Day 37 : At Sea
Another day to rest and relax after a busy day in port. Another day of Team Trivia and a near-perfect score of 19/20.
The Hornblowers gathered in the Schooner Bar for a group photo taken by the ships' photographers and individual/couples photos taken by Len Reese, one of our own.
This was formal night, and after dinner we attended a show in the Savoy Theatre featuring the Jimmy Dorsey Band, and a masquerade ball later with dance music by the Phantom Seven (the theme of the evening was a celebration of the Phantom of the Opera). A very good day.
Tomorrow: At Sea
Another day to rest and relax after a busy day in port. Another day of Team Trivia and a near-perfect score of 19/20.
The Hornblowers gathered in the Schooner Bar for a group photo taken by the ships' photographers and individual/couples photos taken by Len Reese, one of our own.
This was formal night, and after dinner we attended a show in the Savoy Theatre featuring the Jimmy Dorsey Band, and a masquerade ball later with dance music by the Phantom Seven (the theme of the evening was a celebration of the Phantom of the Opera). A very good day.
Tomorrow: At Sea
Around the Horn
Day 36: Lima, Peru
Feeling slightly better after the antibiotics started to kick in, I joined Dave for a ship's tour of Lima, Peru called the Pre-Columbian Oracle Centre excursion.
After boarding our tour bus with our guide Hernando, we were given a brief tour and history of the city on our way to the first archeological site, the Huaca Huallamarca centre, which operated between 200 B.C. and 200 A.D. We met Anita, a very well-spoken Peruvian archeologist, who accompanied us around the museum and led us through the various eras of Peruvian history. The museum is the home of a perfectly preserved mummy, a woman dated to 900 A.D. , whose hair circles her to a length of at least 4 feet. She sits cross-legged in her display case and her delicate hands are intact to her fingernails.
Our second site was the Huaca Pucllana in Miraflores. This huge site ,functional for 1200 years until the Spanish conquest, was only discovered and restored 20 years ago. We had as our guide around the site a young man who is an actual worker in the restoration process of this important site, which was an educational/religious centre. He gave us an interesting narrative of the findings of this temple, including the many discoveries of human sacrifices to the gods. Only woman and children were offered as sacrifices, and their many mutilated bodies were found lying face-down in the various layers of the temple. In contrast, the men are buried face-up in tradional funereal positions.
An earthquake in Chile last year has set the restorative process back, as the restored sections of the huge temple are not as strong as the original brick sections, and the archeologists have had to rethink their restoration processes. The ancient ways are sometimes the best.
After an informative drive back to the ship, we thanked Hernando and left the bus to shop at the portside booths set up by local entepreneurs. I purchased a number of Peruvian items, including silver jewelry in the form of the Tome, the symbol of Peru, a backpack of woven wool cloth, and an Alpaca wool scarf. Prices in Peru are very reasonable and most merchants will deal in U.S. dollars.
We spent another lazy afternoon in the sun and the pool after an excellent morning in Lima.
Tomorrow : At Sea
Feeling slightly better after the antibiotics started to kick in, I joined Dave for a ship's tour of Lima, Peru called the Pre-Columbian Oracle Centre excursion.
After boarding our tour bus with our guide Hernando, we were given a brief tour and history of the city on our way to the first archeological site, the Huaca Huallamarca centre, which operated between 200 B.C. and 200 A.D. We met Anita, a very well-spoken Peruvian archeologist, who accompanied us around the museum and led us through the various eras of Peruvian history. The museum is the home of a perfectly preserved mummy, a woman dated to 900 A.D. , whose hair circles her to a length of at least 4 feet. She sits cross-legged in her display case and her delicate hands are intact to her fingernails.
Our second site was the Huaca Pucllana in Miraflores. This huge site ,functional for 1200 years until the Spanish conquest, was only discovered and restored 20 years ago. We had as our guide around the site a young man who is an actual worker in the restoration process of this important site, which was an educational/religious centre. He gave us an interesting narrative of the findings of this temple, including the many discoveries of human sacrifices to the gods. Only woman and children were offered as sacrifices, and their many mutilated bodies were found lying face-down in the various layers of the temple. In contrast, the men are buried face-up in tradional funereal positions.
An earthquake in Chile last year has set the restorative process back, as the restored sections of the huge temple are not as strong as the original brick sections, and the archeologists have had to rethink their restoration processes. The ancient ways are sometimes the best.
After an informative drive back to the ship, we thanked Hernando and left the bus to shop at the portside booths set up by local entepreneurs. I purchased a number of Peruvian items, including silver jewelry in the form of the Tome, the symbol of Peru, a backpack of woven wool cloth, and an Alpaca wool scarf. Prices in Peru are very reasonable and most merchants will deal in U.S. dollars.
We spent another lazy afternoon in the sun and the pool after an excellent morning in Lima.
Tomorrow : At Sea
Around the Horn
Day 35: At Sea
The full day in Arica and a restless night of coughing left me exhausted, and I slept in until late morning. Fortunately this sea day allowed me to regain my strength for the next port of call, Lima, Peru.
After our daily Trivia Bowl session, Dave and I headed for the pool deck for some much-needed rest and relaxation. An hour or so in the sun and a refreshing dip in the Solarium pool works wonders to rejuvenate. We rejoined our tablemates in the main dining room for the evening meal and then went to Ellingtons to listen to some jazz and dance music before retiring.
Tomorrow: Lima, Peru
The full day in Arica and a restless night of coughing left me exhausted, and I slept in until late morning. Fortunately this sea day allowed me to regain my strength for the next port of call, Lima, Peru.
After our daily Trivia Bowl session, Dave and I headed for the pool deck for some much-needed rest and relaxation. An hour or so in the sun and a refreshing dip in the Solarium pool works wonders to rejuvenate. We rejoined our tablemates in the main dining room for the evening meal and then went to Ellingtons to listen to some jazz and dance music before retiring.
Tomorrow: Lima, Peru
Around the Horn
Day 34 : Arica, Chile
Armed with the first dose of a 5-day regimen of Azithromycin to combat this lung problem, I made my way along with Dave to meet 30 other Hornblowers for a full days' tour of Arica, Chile. This part of Chile is vastly different from the lush landscape of Valparaiso, as the countryside surrounding Arica is brown, dry and dusty, receiving only 1 mm of rain YEARLY!. The temperature was in the mid-twenties Celsius, a typical summer day in Chile.
Our private tour (4 groups of 8 people each, as pre-arranged by Jill and Harley) began with a guided walk around the city square , where preparations were being made for a 3-day carnival, and a stop at St. Mark's Cathedral, a gift from the French and designed by Eiffel in 1876. We split up into 4 vans, each with a guide, and headed out to visit El Morro, an important lookout during the Pacific War of 1880,which provided us with excellent views of the city. Next was a viewing of geoglyphs and Colcas ( panels with drawings of animals, people and geometric figures, 1000-1400 A.D.)
Next on the tour was a brief stop at a local goat farm for a snack of fresh goat and cow cheese, fried corn niblets, a type of cereal grain and an Aymara Cocktail.Continuing on, we made several stops of interest including Poconchile (pre-Inca town), the Pampa "Quebrada del Diablo" or high plateau, with spectacular views of the desert and valleys, and on to the town of San Miguel de Azapa and lunch and a folkloric show at Restaurant 'Dona Juanita'.
After lunch we visited the San Miguel de Azapa Archeological Museum to view the Chinchorro Mummies, which date back to 6000 B.C. During the drive back to Arica, we stopped several times to view geoglyphs (Sacred Hill and Caravans of Llamas, both 1000-1400 A.D.) Our last stop was at a handicraft village to purchase a few small souvenirs of Chile.
After a very full and tiring day, we skipped dinner in the main dining room and ate an informal meal in the Windjammer buffet before retiring early.
Tomorrow: At Sea
Armed with the first dose of a 5-day regimen of Azithromycin to combat this lung problem, I made my way along with Dave to meet 30 other Hornblowers for a full days' tour of Arica, Chile. This part of Chile is vastly different from the lush landscape of Valparaiso, as the countryside surrounding Arica is brown, dry and dusty, receiving only 1 mm of rain YEARLY!. The temperature was in the mid-twenties Celsius, a typical summer day in Chile.
Our private tour (4 groups of 8 people each, as pre-arranged by Jill and Harley) began with a guided walk around the city square , where preparations were being made for a 3-day carnival, and a stop at St. Mark's Cathedral, a gift from the French and designed by Eiffel in 1876. We split up into 4 vans, each with a guide, and headed out to visit El Morro, an important lookout during the Pacific War of 1880,which provided us with excellent views of the city. Next was a viewing of geoglyphs and Colcas ( panels with drawings of animals, people and geometric figures, 1000-1400 A.D.)
Next on the tour was a brief stop at a local goat farm for a snack of fresh goat and cow cheese, fried corn niblets, a type of cereal grain and an Aymara Cocktail.Continuing on, we made several stops of interest including Poconchile (pre-Inca town), the Pampa "Quebrada del Diablo" or high plateau, with spectacular views of the desert and valleys, and on to the town of San Miguel de Azapa and lunch and a folkloric show at Restaurant 'Dona Juanita'.
After lunch we visited the San Miguel de Azapa Archeological Museum to view the Chinchorro Mummies, which date back to 6000 B.C. During the drive back to Arica, we stopped several times to view geoglyphs (Sacred Hill and Caravans of Llamas, both 1000-1400 A.D.) Our last stop was at a handicraft village to purchase a few small souvenirs of Chile.
After a very full and tiring day, we skipped dinner in the main dining room and ate an informal meal in the Windjammer buffet before retiring early.
Tomorrow: At Sea
Monday, February 9, 2009
Around the Horn
Day 33: At Sea
Having had such a great time the previous evening, I was disappointed to wake up with a terribly sore throat, a wet cough and a stuffy head. Unable to function until almost noon, I took some medication, ate a little and headed to Team Trivia. That was enough brain exercise for me, and the rest of the day was spent taking it easy, sunbathing and floating in the Solarium pool, as the hot South American summer weather had finally returned. I managed to make it through dinner and was back in the cabin early to attempt a good night's sleep before the day trip to Arica.
I am not the only Diva down, by the way. My former roommates Carol and Jeannine are also battling what Carol has dubbed 'Kennel Cough", that upper respiratory 'thing' that has conquered easily a third of the ship by now. The informary is busy diagnosing bronchial and throat problems and nearly everyone we meet has, has had or is coming down with a bug of some sort. I think I may need to resort to stronger medication to beat this thing.
Tomorrow : Arica, Chile
Having had such a great time the previous evening, I was disappointed to wake up with a terribly sore throat, a wet cough and a stuffy head. Unable to function until almost noon, I took some medication, ate a little and headed to Team Trivia. That was enough brain exercise for me, and the rest of the day was spent taking it easy, sunbathing and floating in the Solarium pool, as the hot South American summer weather had finally returned. I managed to make it through dinner and was back in the cabin early to attempt a good night's sleep before the day trip to Arica.
I am not the only Diva down, by the way. My former roommates Carol and Jeannine are also battling what Carol has dubbed 'Kennel Cough", that upper respiratory 'thing' that has conquered easily a third of the ship by now. The informary is busy diagnosing bronchial and throat problems and nearly everyone we meet has, has had or is coming down with a bug of some sort. I think I may need to resort to stronger medication to beat this thing.
Tomorrow : Arica, Chile
Around the Horn
Day 32 : At Sea
Leg 3 of my Around-the-Horn voyage saw the Mariner sailing northwest toward Arica, our second stop in Chile. The weather improves daily, and although the day was overcast the temperature is gradually climbing. This was Day 2 of the 16-night Valparaiso to L.A. trip, and the day of our third Hornblower "Meet and Mingle". This late-morning gathering of Cruise Critic online friends gave us a chance to welcome the new people aboard and gave Dave a chance to meet my friends. He was quickly recruited for Vicki's trivia team, as were George and Sue.
At dinner that evening we changed tables and joined friends from Texas, a decision that provided us with great company and set the stage for many more dinners to come. This was also the first Formal Night of Leg 3, and we posed for professional portraits in tux and gown. Deciding to skip the Headliner Showtine , we headed to Ellington's on Deck 14 for what we thought would be a quiet drink.
Wrong. We of course met up with more friends, and left there for the Lotus Lounge, to hear one of our group sing Karaoke. Dwight did a masterful job of old favourites and ballads, prompting us to get up on the dance floor. Meeting up with more friends led us eventually to the Dragon's Lair for more drinks and the late-night disco. A great evening and hopefully the first of many.
Tomorrow : Ar Sea
Leg 3 of my Around-the-Horn voyage saw the Mariner sailing northwest toward Arica, our second stop in Chile. The weather improves daily, and although the day was overcast the temperature is gradually climbing. This was Day 2 of the 16-night Valparaiso to L.A. trip, and the day of our third Hornblower "Meet and Mingle". This late-morning gathering of Cruise Critic online friends gave us a chance to welcome the new people aboard and gave Dave a chance to meet my friends. He was quickly recruited for Vicki's trivia team, as were George and Sue.
At dinner that evening we changed tables and joined friends from Texas, a decision that provided us with great company and set the stage for many more dinners to come. This was also the first Formal Night of Leg 3, and we posed for professional portraits in tux and gown. Deciding to skip the Headliner Showtine , we headed to Ellington's on Deck 14 for what we thought would be a quiet drink.
Wrong. We of course met up with more friends, and left there for the Lotus Lounge, to hear one of our group sing Karaoke. Dwight did a masterful job of old favourites and ballads, prompting us to get up on the dance floor. Meeting up with more friends led us eventually to the Dragon's Lair for more drinks and the late-night disco. A great evening and hopefully the first of many.
Tomorrow : Ar Sea
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Around the Horn
Day 31: Vina Del Mar
After a great evening at the Sheraton with our new friends, Dave and I woke to a beautiful balcony view of the ocean and the Mariner docked in Valparaiso. We met George and Sue for breakfast at the hotel, and then headed out for a walk to take photos and enjoy the warm weather, a welcome change after the chilly days of Cape Horn. We walked on the beach beside the hotel and I wet my feet in the ocean, just to say that I had been there.
We met George and Sue for lunch and walked to the restaurant Castillo Del Mar for a delicious meal of fresh fish, a species known as Conger , native only to Chile, and washed down with a Cristal beer. After a few last photos it was time to head for the Mariner and the start of the final leg of our journey, the 16-night sailing to Los Angeles, California. Check-in was quick and painless, and before long we were settled in our cabin and ready for the days ahead. Dave and I spent the evening with Hornblower friends, a chance for him to get acquainted with all of the great people I with whom I have spent the last 30 days.
Tomorrow : At Sea
After a great evening at the Sheraton with our new friends, Dave and I woke to a beautiful balcony view of the ocean and the Mariner docked in Valparaiso. We met George and Sue for breakfast at the hotel, and then headed out for a walk to take photos and enjoy the warm weather, a welcome change after the chilly days of Cape Horn. We walked on the beach beside the hotel and I wet my feet in the ocean, just to say that I had been there.
We met George and Sue for lunch and walked to the restaurant Castillo Del Mar for a delicious meal of fresh fish, a species known as Conger , native only to Chile, and washed down with a Cristal beer. After a few last photos it was time to head for the Mariner and the start of the final leg of our journey, the 16-night sailing to Los Angeles, California. Check-in was quick and painless, and before long we were settled in our cabin and ready for the days ahead. Dave and I spent the evening with Hornblower friends, a chance for him to get acquainted with all of the great people I with whom I have spent the last 30 days.
Tomorrow : At Sea
Around the Horn
Day 30: Valparaiso, Chile
After a late night and over-indulgence at the Super Bowl party, I managed to drag myself out of bed for a private tour arranged by Mariana, a lovely member of the Hornblowers. We (29 of us) met at Bolero's at 11:00 for the tour, and left the ship to meet Michael, our guide for the day. After a delay in order for some of our participants to exchange U.S. dollars for Chilean Pesos, the form of payment requested by the tour guide, we set off for Vina Del Mar and a photo stop at the Flower Clock. We then headed for a local restaurant for lunch and drinks.
The local Chilean fare was delicious, consisting of clams with parmesan cheese in a half shell and some breaded shrimp/cheese appetizers. The starter course for me was a cold salmon plate with capers, sauce and the ever-present parmesan cheese, and an entree of Chilean sea bass, a thick filet of very tasty fish. We were treated to a pre-dinner glass of the national drink of Chile, a Pisco Sour ( very tasty), white or red wine with the entree, and an apertif of anise with dessert ( a light mousse with an apricot puree). After a great meal and great company, we set out for a scenic tour of picturesque Vina Del Mar, the resort town on the outskirts of the port city, and Valparaiso itself.
Vina Del Mar is a beautiful area, with many nice hotels, restaurants and shopping.and is a safe and popular place for tourists. Valparaiso itself is huge and sprawling, with miles of colorful houses stacked together on its rolling hillsides. We were driven to a magnificent lookout point above the city, then taken on a walking tour of the UNESCO heritage area of the city, with its narrow cobblestone streets. As a final surprise, we were led to the Ascensur Conception, one of 14 'lifts' or elevators still operating in the city. This particular one dates from 1883, and took us, 7 passengers at a time, on a short but hair-raising descent into the main financial district and our waiting bus.
After a late arrival at the ship, I prepared to head to the Sheraton Miramar Hotel to meet Dave and his travelling companions from Ohio, George and Susan, for dinner.
Tomorrow : A Morning in Vina Del Mar
After a late night and over-indulgence at the Super Bowl party, I managed to drag myself out of bed for a private tour arranged by Mariana, a lovely member of the Hornblowers. We (29 of us) met at Bolero's at 11:00 for the tour, and left the ship to meet Michael, our guide for the day. After a delay in order for some of our participants to exchange U.S. dollars for Chilean Pesos, the form of payment requested by the tour guide, we set off for Vina Del Mar and a photo stop at the Flower Clock. We then headed for a local restaurant for lunch and drinks.
The local Chilean fare was delicious, consisting of clams with parmesan cheese in a half shell and some breaded shrimp/cheese appetizers. The starter course for me was a cold salmon plate with capers, sauce and the ever-present parmesan cheese, and an entree of Chilean sea bass, a thick filet of very tasty fish. We were treated to a pre-dinner glass of the national drink of Chile, a Pisco Sour ( very tasty), white or red wine with the entree, and an apertif of anise with dessert ( a light mousse with an apricot puree). After a great meal and great company, we set out for a scenic tour of picturesque Vina Del Mar, the resort town on the outskirts of the port city, and Valparaiso itself.
Vina Del Mar is a beautiful area, with many nice hotels, restaurants and shopping.and is a safe and popular place for tourists. Valparaiso itself is huge and sprawling, with miles of colorful houses stacked together on its rolling hillsides. We were driven to a magnificent lookout point above the city, then taken on a walking tour of the UNESCO heritage area of the city, with its narrow cobblestone streets. As a final surprise, we were led to the Ascensur Conception, one of 14 'lifts' or elevators still operating in the city. This particular one dates from 1883, and took us, 7 passengers at a time, on a short but hair-raising descent into the main financial district and our waiting bus.
After a late arrival at the ship, I prepared to head to the Sheraton Miramar Hotel to meet Dave and his travelling companions from Ohio, George and Susan, for dinner.
Tomorrow : A Morning in Vina Del Mar
Around the Horn
Day 29: At Sea
The last sea day of leg 2 of our 46-night journey was spent as are most, with a late breakfast and conversation with new friends. I spent some time packing up my belongings for an unofficial transfer out of the Diva suite. My 'significant other", Dave will be joining our Hornblower group for the third and final leg of the trip, and I will be dividing my time between the Royal Family Suite and a his balcony cabin on the port side of the Mariner.
The weather is starting to improve as we sail slightly northwest to Valparaiso, Chile, where some of our group will be disembarking to return home. Some have had a wonderful 30-day vacation in the Caribbean and South America, and others have joined us in Rio for the 15-day sailing around Cape Horn. Another group, including Dave, will be sailing with us from Valparaiso to Los Angeles. So although the core group of Hornblowers has remained the same, there have been several new faces on each leg.
The Grand Finale of the Cruise Director's Trivia Bowl saw the Champion "Divas and Wannabes" dethroned by 2 other teams in a close race. All in good fun and the competition will resume on the first sea day on the third leg. Tonight there will be several Super bowl parties held onboard as Steelers and Cardinal fans gather for the big game. Since the Patriots are not involved, I am more interested in the halftime show featuring Bruce Springsteen, and will head up to the 19th Hole Bar in my team jersey to join friends and watch the game.
Tomorrow : Valparaiso, Chile
The last sea day of leg 2 of our 46-night journey was spent as are most, with a late breakfast and conversation with new friends. I spent some time packing up my belongings for an unofficial transfer out of the Diva suite. My 'significant other", Dave will be joining our Hornblower group for the third and final leg of the trip, and I will be dividing my time between the Royal Family Suite and a his balcony cabin on the port side of the Mariner.
The weather is starting to improve as we sail slightly northwest to Valparaiso, Chile, where some of our group will be disembarking to return home. Some have had a wonderful 30-day vacation in the Caribbean and South America, and others have joined us in Rio for the 15-day sailing around Cape Horn. Another group, including Dave, will be sailing with us from Valparaiso to Los Angeles. So although the core group of Hornblowers has remained the same, there have been several new faces on each leg.
The Grand Finale of the Cruise Director's Trivia Bowl saw the Champion "Divas and Wannabes" dethroned by 2 other teams in a close race. All in good fun and the competition will resume on the first sea day on the third leg. Tonight there will be several Super bowl parties held onboard as Steelers and Cardinal fans gather for the big game. Since the Patriots are not involved, I am more interested in the halftime show featuring Bruce Springsteen, and will head up to the 19th Hole Bar in my team jersey to join friends and watch the game.
Tomorrow : Valparaiso, Chile
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Around the Horn
Day 28: Chilean Fjords
Our day of cruising the Chilean Fjords started early, with a room service breakfast in the Royal Family Suite. Since we were to be in the Fords for just half a day, we decided to forego any ship's activities in order to spend our time enjoying the scenery. We rearranged the living room so that all seats faced toward the aft and then opened the balcony door to get a clear view of the Fjords and enjoy the brisk morning air. Hot chocolate from the Concierge Lounge added a nice homey touch as we watched the rolling hills and low-hanging clouds parade past the ship.
Because we were in the shelter of the Fjords, the ride was smooth and the winds calm. The sun broke through the clouds periodically and the temperatures started to moderate as we sailed further north towards Valparaiso.
With hills decreasing in size and the channel getting wider, we once again left the shelter of land and headed out into the Pacific Ocean. The winds picked up a little and the seas became a little higher but tolerable as we began the home stretch for the second leg of this historic journey. Some of our Hornblowers will be leaving us here, and we will say our good-byes on the last evening knowing we will in all likelihood sail together again in the future. We will add some new members to our group as well, some of whom will meet up in Santiago pre-cruise and get to know each other before heading to the port in Valparaiso.
Tomorrow: At Sea
Our day of cruising the Chilean Fjords started early, with a room service breakfast in the Royal Family Suite. Since we were to be in the Fords for just half a day, we decided to forego any ship's activities in order to spend our time enjoying the scenery. We rearranged the living room so that all seats faced toward the aft and then opened the balcony door to get a clear view of the Fjords and enjoy the brisk morning air. Hot chocolate from the Concierge Lounge added a nice homey touch as we watched the rolling hills and low-hanging clouds parade past the ship.
Because we were in the shelter of the Fjords, the ride was smooth and the winds calm. The sun broke through the clouds periodically and the temperatures started to moderate as we sailed further north towards Valparaiso.
With hills decreasing in size and the channel getting wider, we once again left the shelter of land and headed out into the Pacific Ocean. The winds picked up a little and the seas became a little higher but tolerable as we began the home stretch for the second leg of this historic journey. Some of our Hornblowers will be leaving us here, and we will say our good-byes on the last evening knowing we will in all likelihood sail together again in the future. We will add some new members to our group as well, some of whom will meet up in Santiago pre-cruise and get to know each other before heading to the port in Valparaiso.
Tomorrow: At Sea
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