Pirates in our wake!

Arrrgghhhhh an avast me hearties we seem to be entering Pirate territory, or so the Captain tells us!  So in order to be prepared for all eventualities, today we had a “Pirate Drill”.   

A suspect vessel was seen approaching the ship with nefarious intent.  The alarm was sounded and all crew took up their position for defence of the ship.  Meanwhile all passengers had to do was return to their cabins and sit on the floor with the doors open.   The ship reached top speed and took evasive action after which the Captain informed us that the Pirates had been avoided and all was safe.  

Phew! Seems the only thing to do now is go for lunch and recover…..

Phuket

On our earlier trip to Phuket we took a trip out of town to Pha Nang Bay where we visited what is known as James Bond Island, the location for the Bond movie Man With The Golden Gun.  Although that trip was well worth it, this time we decided to see a little more of the town under our own steam.

As expected it was hot and steamy and very busy.  The local market was just starting to wind up for the day when we arrived but we saw plenty to get an idea of what the locals like to eat.  There were all types of fruits, vegetables, fish and meats offer, none of which had been anywhere near any form of refrigeration.  The sights and smells were often a challenge to the senses.

After a couple of hours taking in the sights we took refuge in a local open air café and had a cold drink before making our way back to the port.  It seems that there is very little in Phuket for the tourist however there are many stunning destinations within easy reach, either by taxi or organised tour bus.

Back at the port the locals had set up their market trying to sell their crafts at exorbitant prices.  David’s bartering skills were put to the test and seemed to come through OK.  By now the sun was at its hottest so we took shelter under a makeshift canopy to sample some local Thai food and fresh coconut.  All the crew were eating there so we thought that must be a good sign, and it was.

Next stop The Maldives.

Singapore

We docked at the new Marina Bay Cruise terminal, which is quite a way from anything, so we caught shuttle in to town to the Suntec Shopping Mall.  We had arranged to have lunch with friends at Clarke Quay; so on to the MRT we went. 

We stopped in at China town, we had a small group of people from the ship in tow that didn’t know how to get there (and they all made it back to the ship safely without us), I really felt like the Pied Piper.  I just love China Town.  

Back on the MRT to Clark Quay for lunch and of course it was a brewery!  Lovely lunch anyway, beer not bad either; it was needed in the heat and humidity.

PS ~ We have just been advised that all three ports in Egypt have been taken off the itinerary.  Not unexpected and we would sooner be safe than take any risks.  We are awaiting our alternative excursions.....

Crossing The Equator

Whilst I was working on my tan and having a cool dip in the back pool, David thought he would watch the ceremony that is performed for the pollywogs (people who have not crossed the equator by sea), we of course are shellbacks (people who have crossed the equator by sea).  

The ceremony is well done, with King Neptune and his Queen DD presiding over the event.  The poor pollywogs are covered with everything from dead fish to spaghetti bolognaise, all done in good fun.   David reckons the temp on the main deck must have been about 200c, it was probably about 45c, but no shade.  David then joined me in the back pool where he agreed was a much better place to enjoy the very hot afternoon.

Lombok ~ Indonesia

Today we visited the small island port of Lombok.  Prior to our arrival it had been described to us as ‘rustic’ and similar to Bali before Bali became a tourist destination.  There were a couple of organised day trips available to fellow travellers but Joan and I decided to have a quiet day simply doing our own thing around the town.

On arrival at the port we were met by a troupe of local musicians all banging loudly on their instruments with the main music track playing over a megaphone.  It was the sort of music only a mother would love!  Non the less their instruments and costume made for great pictures.

Off the dock we found ourselves in a small market place with local arts and crafts for sale or barter.  One vendor tried to sell me a single bottle of Bintang beer for $10.  Five minutes later the price was $5, a 50% discount – what a bargain (not).     

Outside the port and all along the main street we were constantly approached by locals trying to sell their services as tour guides and drivers in all manner of transport.

Would I return to Lombok?  Probably not but it was an interesting place to stop and refresh.

Next stop Singapore.

(Still getting used to the pictures with this blog so please bear with me)