We departed Fuerte Amador, Panama on the 11th, a 3,900-mile voyage ahead of us, crossing the vastness of the Pacific Ocean.  Our schedule calls for us to arrive off the French Polynesian island of Nuka Hiva mid-morning of the 20th.

One might imagine that these days at sea would be relatively quiet and I suppose, when one considers the demanding days of Canal transits and ports of call, they are.  However, the ship never sleeps, so to speak and my responsibilities involve more of management and HR role as well as the commencement of Social functions.  The emails never stop coming, both internal and external, our corporate offices, distant ports of call and French Polynesia itself. Here, the numerous islands we call at have one central ‘hub’ of communications, Papeete, Tahiti and it is to and from there that our communications travel.  Further afield, I have been in ‘correspondence’ with Australia and even Singapore, which is 2 months away.

Today we are in sunshine once more, the past 2 days having been under overcast skies and heavy rain; our sun-worshippers are out on deck again and happy.

Our first Captain’s dinner last night.  Every guest who does the full-world cruise has the opportunity to dine with officers in our Pinnacle grill. A special menu and wines make for good conversation.

Guests arriving for dinner

Our Cellar Master, Jacques and his assistants

Tina, our Pinnacle Grill Manager

Our wonderful ladies

My table.

Following the dinner, we had our Black and Silver Ball, the ladies looking resplendent in their finery, the dance floor and stage crowded with revellers.  (The more accomplished dancers used the stage, we less-so remained relatively incognito on the floor)  😉

Lunchtime today and the Suite guests are invited to an ‘Amuse’ banquet.