18th May

The day has arrived for us to board. After last minute packing we checked out of our apartment and caught a taxis to the White Bay Cruise terminal. This is the first time we have left on a cruise from this terminal but after a short wait we were issued with our cruise cards and went through customs before boarding. It all went smoothly. Our cabin is great, it is the first time we have had a Minisuite and so far it looks like it will be worth the extra cost. We did not have to wait long for our cases to arrive with the exception of Betty’s main case which as I type this blog has not turned up even though we have sailed.

After unpacking, we went up to the buffet for lunch which was up to the usual standard. We now also have our coffee cards and we are all set for a good cruise. We have met Bev & Ian Hughes who are in the cabin next door and will be seating with us at dinner. They arrived from Melbourne this morning and boarded the ship after us. By the way Betty’s case has now turned up so she will not have to wear the same clothes for the whole cruise.

Not long after the usual safety drill we sailed just as it was getting dark so we have some good photos of the sun setting behind the Harbour Bridge. We met Bev & Ian at dinner but we found instead of sitting on a table of 8 there is just the 4 of us. While all of us had requested a larger table, not that we have anything against Bev & Ian it does make for better conversation if you have a few more people on your table. We have requested a move if possible. After dinner we went to the Princess Theatre to the show “Welcome Aboard Showtime” which included an introduction by the Cruise Director Mark Turner, a dance sequence by the ballet and a short performance by Jacques Renay who sings like Tom Jones. It was a good start to the cruise.