It’s been hectic these past few days, hence the lack of a post.  After our transit of the Suez Canal, we spent a day slow-steaming for the port of Ashdod, Israel, timing our arrival for 6 in the morning.  A beautiful sunrise greeted us as we sailed into the harbour.

 

 I, unfortunately did not manage to go ashore, the reason being that, every Grand World voyage, we have our CEO and President visit and today was their arrival, hence it being ‘hectic’.

 

Onwards then, to Haifa.  Here guests can visit Bethlehem, the Dead Sea, Masada, to name but a few and many left us in Ashdod, rejoining in Haifa, having done all this and more.

My ‘roving reporter’, Karen went on a tour to Bethlehem, however, having taken my camera, she found that the battery was flat after a few photos; my fault, I always carry a spare, however neglected to give it to her, duh……………… 🙄 

She did however manage some of the surroundings during her drive and some of the Church of the Nativity.

Another day at sea and Kusadasi, Turkey.  We are expecting a storm in the Aegean Sea and I was fortunate that the wind, although strong, has not increased to its expected 50 knots, we’ll get that tonight, on our way towards Piraeus.  Docking was straightforward and everyone is ashore, enjoying the great (cheap) prices in the shops.

This evening, as part of our President’s and CEO’s visit, all guests are invited to a splendid function at Ephesus, the  ancient city near by.  We are to be treated to an orchestral recital in the amphitheatre, normally used only twice a year and then only for very special occasions.  I will be taking camera (and battery) and, weather permitting, (not having to spend too long on the Bridge), I will post.

My apologies for the brevity of the post today, optimistically, I will have time after Piraeus.