Day 86 - MANGALORE, INDIA

 Date: 3/31/2024     Day 86                       Port: MANGALORE, INDIA

Description: A major port on the Arabian Sea located in Southern India, Mangalore derives its name from a goddess. The city has a rich historical past, part of it even dating back to major epics that are the bedrock of the Hindu mythological pantheon. Mangalore has 11th century temples, scintillating beaches dotted with coconut palm trees, museums and lighthouses. Red-roofed houses against the lush greenery provide a much-needed escape from the ordinary.

Planned Excursion: HIGHLIGHTS OF MANGALORE

4.0 Hours                           Moderate Activity                           # MAL-004: Free

Discover the economic importance of cashews by touring a processing plant.  Visit a remarkably ornate temple that a saint built in 1912.  Behold ceiling paintings in a chapel that are often compared to those in the Sistine Chapel.  Share a beverage with a local Mangalorean family in their home.

Evening Update: Again tonight, once we were out to sea the Internet was restored.  While in port here in India the ship's Internet goes offline.   We saw some interesting sites today.  I have many pictures and video to upload.  Beautiful St. Aloysius Chapel was the highlight of the day often compared to the Sistine Chapel.  It was built by Jesuit Missionaries in 1880 and its interiors painted by the Italian Jesuit Antonio Moscheni in 1899.  

Click Here --> St. Aloysius Chapel video

The above video is worth the watch.  Listen close to the commentary about the Chapel as I was walking around.  I was a bit disappointed in the unsteady video at times.  The video stabilization was not properly set.  I had to cut a lot out due to this.  But I still think it's worth a full view of this beautiful church.  

Day 85 - KOCHI (COCHIN), INDIA

 Date: 3/30/2024     Day 85                       Port: KOCHI (COCHIN), INDIA

Description: Popularly referred to as the ’Queen of the Arabian Sea,’ Cochin (Khochi) has been a trading post since early Roman times, due to its strategic location between Europe and China. From the court of Kubla Khan to the captains of Europe’s great Age of Exploration, travelers and merchants from far-off lands have been coming here since ancient times in search of spices, sandalwood and ivory. Explore St. Francis' Church, the oldest existing European church in India. View one of the oldest synagogues in the world – a jewel of incomparable beauty with its brass columns, Belgian hanging lamps, and exquisite hand-painted, blue-and-white Chinese porcelain tiles.

Planned Excursion: HIGHLIGHTS OF COCHIN

4.0 Hours                           Moderate Activity                           # COK-001: Free

See the influence of the many traders and colonists that came to Cochin.  Marvel at the highly unusual Chinese fishing nets that are operated from shore.  Recognize the impact of the Portuguese through several architectural gems.  Visit a Jewish community whose heyday was the late 1500s.

Today's Update: When we arrived in port today the ship's Internet went down and remained down all day. Not until we left port again and were out to sea did it come back to usable bandwidth.   

We all had to go through Indian Immigration, face to face with an official.  Once cleared we received what is called a printed landing card.  We have to use this card to pass through Immigration each time leaving and returning to the ship.  This process delayed by more than a hour getting folks to their excursions or land tours.  We had 140 leave us for overnight(s) sea/land tours.  

I am going to post this now before getting into our next port of call.  The Internet may go down again for the day. 

Evening Update:  Yes once were back out to sea the Internet was restored.  It's making it difficult to update my blog postings and upload pictures and video.  

We did have a good first excursion in India.  It was a hot day walking through the points of interest.  India is in an early heat wave.  As I write this update we have left our second India port stop, Mangalore, India.  

Please check back to this post for updates when I am able to upload pictures and video.  Many thanks for reading our blog and following along with us on our World Cruise. 

Day 83 - MALE, MALDIVES (Day 2)

 Date: 3/28/2024     Day 83                       Port: MALE, MALDIVES

Description: Malé, the capital of the Republic of Maldives, is located at the southern edge of North Male’ Atoll Kaafu Atoll. Traditionally, Malé was the “King’s Island,” from where the ancient Maldive Royal families had their palace and ruled the country. Malé is dotted with mosques, wide streets, parks and markets. Tour the national Museum, the colorful Fish Market and the Friday mosque with its splendid golden dome.

Planned Excursion: BEACH ESCAPADE - FULL DAY ADAARAN VADOO

8.0 Hours                           Moderate Activity                           # MLE-004: $179.00

Welcome to Adaaran Vadoo, one of the prestigious Maldives Resorts.  As the gateway to the South Atolls, Vadoo possesses its own exotic reef teeming with vibrant aquatic flora and fauna.  You will have 6 hours of leisure time at the Resort.  Included is a buffet lunch offered by the Hotel.    Absorb the magical ambiance created by the island’s luxuriant foliage and stately palm trees.  Appreciate an inviting, white-sand beach and placid turquoise lagoon.  Unwind with a good book or take a refreshing dip in the gin-clear water snorkeling at your leisure.  Roam the dazzling beach or relax in the sun’s warmth.

Today's Update: We had a wonderful day that the resort.  There were many places in the sun and shade for relaxing with a good book or swimming in either the ocean or freshwater pool.  It was the best snorkeling yet with many fish to observe.  The coral was a disappointment.  The best place to snorkel was near the channel between the resort island and another.   So the waves from the boat traffic made it difficult to swim at times.  After getting back to the ship and reviewing my GoPro video, I was disappointed.  Apparently I had the camera angled down to much in comparison to the plane of my facemask.  So many of the beautiful fish I was observing were out-of-frame.  I do have one good video I have put together and will be posting a link here along with a video of the grounds around the resort.  I hope you enjoy them and get a sense of what a great place it was.  Only wish we could have stayed longer.  

 Click Here --> Adaaran Vadoo Resort Grounds

 Click Here --> Adaaran Vadoo Resort Snorkeling Part 1

Day 82 - MALE, MALDIVES (Day 1)

 Date: 3/27/2024     Day 82                       Port: MALE, MALDIVES

Description: Malé, the capital of the Republic of Maldives, is located at the southern edge of North Male’ Atoll Kaafu Atoll. Traditionally, Malé was the “King’s Island,” from where the ancient Maldive Royal families had their palace and ruled the country. Malé is dotted with mosques, wide streets, parks and markets. Tour the national Museum, the colorful Fish Market and the Friday mosque with its splendid golden dome.

Planned Excursion: MALDIVES SNORKELING (Ed & Joe Rawson)

2 Hours     Strenuous Activity    # MLE-001: Free

Sail to Hulhumale Island, the Maldivian government’s largest reclamation project.  Appreciate the artificial island’s palm-lined streets and beach that gradually drops into the crystal-clear water.  Embark on an unguided snorkeling adventure in the warm Maldivian waters.  Glory in an unending variety of multi-hued fish, such as clownfish, Moorish idols and oriental sweetlips.  Spot a graceful eagle ray or larger manta ray.  Revel in free time in the tranquil village to browse inviting shops or have a bite to eat.

Planned Excursion: GULHI VILLAGE ISLAND TOUR (Cathy and Pat Rawson)

5.0 Hours   Moderate Activity     # MLE-0015: Free

Cruise to tiny Gulhi Island and spend time relaxing on one of the beaches.  (cancelled)

Cathy and Pat decided to cancel their planned excursion and go shopping instead.

Today's Notes:  The snorkeling excursion was the best so far.  Joe and I both really enjoyed it with many colorful fish to observe.  We explored two locations, one near a reef and the other off a private island.  Cathy and Pat spent most of the day in town shopping.  Due the to Ramadan, the shops were only open 9 AM - 1 PM. They did a lot of walking and Pat was pretty exhausted by the time they got back onboard.  

We are in Male for two days.  I have a lot of video from the snorkeling excursion.  As I write this Cathy and I are preparing to go out to a private resort for the day and do more snorkeling.   We have a sea day before our first stop in India.  I hope to spend the day reviewing, editing and uploading video taken over the two days in Male.  I will post that video in my day 2 here in Male.

Day 81 - CRUISING THE ANDAMAN SEA (Cruise review to date)

 Date: 3/26/2024     Day 81   Sea Day: CRUISING THE ANDAMAN SEA

The Andaman Sea, also known as the Burma Sea, is a marginal sea of the northeastern Indian Ocean.02 It is bounded by the coastlines of Myanmar and Thailand along the Gulf of Martaban and the west side of the Malay Peninsula, and separated from the Bay of Bengal to its west by the Andaman Islands and the Nicobar Islands. Its southern end is at Breueh Island just north of Sumatra, with the Strait of Malacca further southeast.

Today's Update:  Today is a sea day before we arrive in MALE, MALDIVES tomorrow.  We will have two days there and are looking forward to this idyllic location.  Cathy and I are really looking forward to the second day.  We'll be spending the day at Adaaran Vadoo, one of the prestigious Maldives Resorts.

Today I am going to reflect on our World Cruise thus far.  

Now after  spending 81 days on Regent Seven Seas Mariner it feels like home and has for some time now.  It's going to be hard to consider cruising with any other line after this experience.   Everyone from the Captain on down to our room steward's are so friendly, helpfully and make you feel as family. With this much time together many staff know us by our first name's.  

The ship is small in comparison to many of the popular cruise lines.  With it's size it is able to visit places many of the bigger cruise ships are unable.  It's not for families with children as there would not be much for them to do.  Excursions, daily planned activities and talks about the places we will be visiting, are tuned to us older adults.  Sea days are filled with games and those talks.  While the ship is old, completed March 8, 2001, it is well maintained.  The crew is constantly, cleaning, painting and repairing the ship keeping it looking like new.  One example is the carpet in our stateroom was completely replaced along with cleaning and re-grouting the tile around the tube.  Minor repairs have also been done.   

We are finding life on Mariner is more relaxed and less hurried.  Because there are less than 750 passengers all activities less crowded.   On other much larger cruise ships we have sailed, the crush of people can be overwhelming, especially when gathering for planned excursion's and evening entertainment.  The food is excellent and varied.  The ship's head chef, knowing there is nearly 400 of us world traveler's, has changed or included menu items reflexing more "Home Cooking" comfort food offerings.  

As world cruiser's having complete onboard Medical care, we feel very pamper and cared for, our health and safety always a priority.  Fortunately, Cathy and I have yet to seek medical care.  Those that have reported a well equipped Medical facility.  World Cruiser's are provided this care for free, included in their fare.  

Many are booking their next cruise with some booking future World Cruise's.  We are going to wait until we get home to see how we feel.  After 148 nights on this cruise we may not want to do it again for quite awhile.   With that said, we are looking forward to the remaining 67 days onboard the beautiful Regent Seven Seas Mariner.  

Day 80 - COLOMBO, SRI LANKA

 Date: 3/25/2024     Day 80    Port: COLOMBO, SRI LANKA

Description: Capital of the ancient Kingdom of Kandy, Colombo has been visited for over 2,000 years by Roman, Chinese, Arab and European traders. Explore this exotic city and view colorful colonial buildings including the Presidential Secretariat, the Grand Oriental Hotel, and the Lighthouse Clock Tower. A “must” to visit is Pettah, Colombo's leading bazaar district. The narrow cobbled streets are lined with shops and street stalls offering the most unimaginable range of goods. Other noteworthy sights include Viharamahadevi Park, the city's largest and oldest green expanse; and the palatial mansions of Cinnamon Gardens.

Planned Excursion: COLOMBO CONTRASTS

4.5 Hours                           Moderate Activity                           # CMB-007: Free

See the complementary mix of modern and colonial architecture throughout Colombo.   Behold soaring high rises and one of Colombo’s oldest Buddhist temples.  Delve deeply into the culture by browsing the exhibitions in the National Museum.

Morning Update: We woke up to a lovely sunny day.  Stepping out on to our balcony we saw many early morning fishing boats.  We are several miles off the coast of Sri Lanka due into port at 11:30 AM.  We are in one of those 30 minute time zones.  It is currently 7:15 AM and our home in Wasilla Alaska it's 5:45 PM.  We are nearly half way around the world from home.  

The ship is unable to have a shuttle bus to town, just to the port entrance gate.  The local taxi union is blocking the shuttle bus.  It is only a little over a mile to town and it cost's $15 US one way.  If we go to town after our excursion we'll be walking.    

Evening Update:  For the most part today's excursion was a disappointment.  It started out with 5 coach buses touring the same places.  The tour started with a drive through parts of Colombo much of it in extremely poor neighborhoods.  Streets were very crowded and driving through them is painfully slow.  We finally arrived at our first destination, the National Museum.  It was now mid afternoon and very hot a humid.  Two of the buses air-conditioning was not working and only one replacement bus was sent to the Museum.   Once inside the Museum, we found most all the exhibition halls unairconditioned.  Since there were so many of us trying to view the same rooms it was extremely crowded.    There was not elevator to the second floor and those with mobility issues could not take the steps up there.  The overall Museum was very large and one could have spent the whole day there.  The upstairs was less crowded.  We only had an hour to tour it so it was a hurried walk through.  

Next was the highlight of the day.  All buses were taken to a 5 star hotel the Taj Samudra, Colombo.  We were treated to a wonderful afternoon tea and refreshments.  Many commented that this has made up for the disappointments so far.   The heat and humidity had made the excursion thus far miserable.  After this tea break many just wanted to go back to the ship.  But there was one more stop to make, one of Colombo’s oldest Buddhist temples.  Some of those on our bus simply reminded onboard including myself, Cathy, Joe and Pat.  We were exhausted and the heat and humidity had taken it's toll.  We were also a bit templed out.  

I have a few pictures taken in the museum to review and post.  So, please check back to this post for links to those.  Thanks for reading my blog.  

Day 78 - CRUISING THE ANDAMAN SEA

 Date: 3/23/2024     Day 78    Sea Day: CRUISING THE ANDAMAN SEA

The Andaman Sea, also known as the Burma Sea, is a marginal sea of the northeastern Indian Ocean.02 It is bounded by the coastlines of Myanmar and Thailand along the Gulf of Martaban and the west side of the Malay Peninsula, and separated from the Bay of Bengal to its west by the Andaman Islands and the Nicobar Islands. Its southern end is at Breueh Island just north of Sumatra, with the Strait of Malacca further southeast.

Morning Update:  We moved our clocks back another hour overnight.  This is the second setback in two days.  We will likely have another one hour setback tonight to bring ship's time in alignment with COLOMBO, SRI LANKA our next port of call.  It's a lovely day and the seas are smooth.  Today and tomorrow are sea days.  I am going to be reviewing, processing and uploading pictures and videos taken over the last few days.  Please check back to my previous posts to see those updates (Days 73 - 77).

Day 77 - PHUKET, THAILAND

 Date: 3/22/2024     Day 77                       Port: PHUKET, THAILAND

Description: With a land area of 215 square miles, Phuket Island is about the same size as Singapore, making it Thailand's largest island. Known as the "Pearl of Thailand," this beautiful retreat offers pristine beaches, lush vegetation, traditional villages, and seascapes of huge limestone pillars that tower over the turquoise waters of Phang-Nga Bay. Apart from tourism, much of the province's wealth derives from tin production, which started back in the 16th century.

Planned Excursion: SNORKELING AT KOH KHAI (Ed)

5.5 Hours                           Strenuous Activity                           # HKT-007: $109.00

Zip through the Andaman Sea to the island Koh Khai on a speedboat.  Relax on the beach rimming the island and snorkel whenever you please.  Cruise to another island and snorkel its crystal-clear waters for a different perspective.

Planned Excursion: SPECTACULAR PHANG NGA BAY (Cathy)

8.5 Hours                           Moderate Activity                           # HKT-003: Free

Cruise through the staggeringly beautiful landscape of Phang Nga National Park.  Pass towering limestone columns rising from the sea and near-vertical cliffs.  Ease through mangrove forests and into small grottoes carved out of the limestone.  Stop at an isolated fishing village built on stilts that lacks most modern conveniences.

Morning Update: As you can see from Cruise Mapper we are not in Phuket but on the other side of the island.  This could be a change to rather miss another port due to sea conditions, we are here.  This is a tendering at anchor port.  To get ashore we usually take our lifeboats.  However, they have bought alongside a barge platform to set the gain way.  They are not deploying the lifeboats but we have these large two deck excursion boats to take us ashore.  Please check back for my next evening update to this post. 

Evening Update: Yes indeed they did change ports due to high sea conditions at the originally planned port.  All were pleased with the change in that our own tenders were not used.  We rode buses to the other side of the island to embark on our excursions.  With my excursion, the first stop to jump off the back of the boat to go snorkeling I decided to remain onboard.  It just look to unsafe due to the very small rear ladder getting into and out of the water.  It was a good decision.  Those that did get in the water were soon back out.  Many jelly fish were around and some got bit.  Others reported bleached coral and few fish.  Once everyone was back onboard we proceeded to the beach.  We had a private beach to relax and do more swimming and snorkeling.  I found no jelly fish, healthy coral and fish.  I really enjoyed the second opportunity to go snorkeling.   Cathy also enjoy her excursion.  

Videos

Click Here --> SNORKELING AT KOH KHAI - Part 1 (snorkeling areas from the speedboat and beach)

Click Here --> SNORKELING AT KOH KHAI - Part 2 (underwater)

Click Here --> SNORKELING AT KOH KHAI - Part 3 (underwater)

Click Here --> SNORKELING AT KOH KHAI - Part 4 (Return speedboat trip)

Day 76 - PENANG, MALAYSIA

 Date: 3/21/2024     Day 76                       Port: PENANG, MALAYSIA

Description: Pulau Pinang, as it is known locally, is the northern gateway to Malaysia and also the country's oldest British settlement. The word "Pinang" in Malay refers to the areca nut palm, which provides the betel nut, an essential ingredient in a delicacy chewed by millions in the Far East. Today Georgetown is noted for the largest collection of pre-war houses in all of Southeast Asia and the Penang Heritage Trust has been established to maintain its unique heritage.

Planned Excursion: BUTTERFLY FARM & SPICE GARDEN

4.0 Hours                           Light Activity                     # PEN-007: Free

Walk among thousands of butterflies in an enclosed vivarium.  Feel an immense sense of calm as you wander through the natural setting.  Discover many of Malaysia’s unusual herbs and spices in another garden setting.

Today's Notes: We had a lovely day and we enjoyed both stops.  It was my first time experiencing an enclosed butterfly garden.  There also were more to see than the butterflies show casing various reptiles and fish.  The spice garden stop was very interesting and informative.  Cathy really enjoyed this stop.

Click Here --> Penang Pictures

Click Here --> Video BUTTERFLY FARM

Day 75 - KUALA LUMPUR (PORT KLANG), MALAYSIA

 Date: 3/20/2024     Day 75                       Port: KUALA LUMPUR (PORT KLANG), MALAYSIA

Description: Spend the day discovering this cosmopolitan city and its many cultural levels, from the soaring Petronas Towers to a Royal Palace, Gothic churches, stolid Colonial remnants and a restored Malay timber house, once the residence of a local headman in a lovely Heritage Center. Browse in the markets and shops. Shop for crafts, excellent pewter, jewelry, batik. The fusion of cultures here offers a variety of menus from Malay and Chinese to continental cuisines. Try a curry or spicy broiled duck, a satay or broiled fish.

Planned Excursion: THE BEST OF KUALA LUMPUR

8.0 Hours                           Strenuous Activity                           # KUL-009: Free

Marvel at the diverse attractions and architecture that reflect the history of Kuala Lumpur.  Discover how Malaysia transitioned from colonial rule to become self-governing.  Get a glimpse of daily life at a thriving local market.

Morning Update: After visiting Singapore, it felt a bit like living inside of George Orwell's 1984 when going through repeated passport and facial recognition security checks, we're visiting the first of two Malaysian stops.  Our tour today includes a buffet style lunch at one of the city’s leading restaurants.  It's going to again be a hot day with Thunderstorms and rain (75%) and a high of 95F (35C).  On the long bus rides I listen to my audio books and Cathy listen's to Spotify music.  Please check back for the afternoon update.  

Evening Update: It was a long 9 hr. day once we arrived back on board.  It was mostly a long bus ride into Kuala Lumpur with photo stops.   The tour ended at a shopping market.  Our tour guide wanted to leave in time to bet the rush hour out of town.   We mostly succeeded in that effort.  Joe and Pat's tour arrived at the market about a half hour later then we and when they departed got caught in the rush.  We both had an intense rainstorm on the bus ride back to the ship.  Joe and Pat's bus not only was caught in the rush hour but also delayed due to an accident.  Their delay resulted in a 3 hr. ride back to the ship as apposed to our hour and half.  

Click Here --> Kuala Lumpur Pictures

Day 74 - SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE

 Date: 3/19/2024     Day 74                       Port: SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE

Description: This island nation at the end of the Malaysian peninsula offers an extraordinary array of culture, history and cuisine. Embrace exotic sights and sounds strolling through Chinatown, the Arab Quarter or Little India. Head to the Boat Quay for unrivaled views of the harbor before dining at one of many international eateries. Shop along Orchard Road for treasures from every corner of the Pacific Rim; embark on a night safari at the Singapore Zoo or relax in the verdant shade of the Bukit Timah Nature Preserve. Wander the wondrously futuristic Gardens By the Bay before relaxing with a refreshing Singapore Sling at the iconic Raffles Hotel.

Planned Excursion: PANORAMIC SINGAPORE Cancelled

Todays Notes: As a result of yesterday’s frustration with getting off and back on the ship again (see Day 73 post) we decided to remain on board the ship.  Yesterday Joe and Pat Rawson was met by a friend living here in Singapore.  They spent the entire day seeing the sights and returned late to the ship at 10 PM.  Joe has taken many great photos and a video of the evening light show.  I will be sharing his photos and video in a later update.  

We are at the halfway point in this World Cruise. In the next few days, I hope to do a special mid-cruise reflection post.  So stay tuned for that. 

We have a daily stops (no sea days) for the next three days.  Then followed by 2 sea days where I will be able to get caught up on reviewing, processing and uploading pictures and videos.  I will do daily posts but might not have the time that day to upload and pictures and video.  So please check back to those upcoming previous posts for those updates.  

Click Here --> Singapore Pictures

Day 73 - SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE

 Date: 3/18/2024     Day 73                       Port: SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE

Description: This island nation at the end of the Malaysian peninsula offers an extraordinary array of culture, history and cuisine. Embrace exotic sights and sounds strolling through Chinatown, the Arab Quarter or Little India. Head to the Boat Quay for unrivaled views of the harbor before dining at one of many international eateries. Shop along Orchard Road for treasures from every corner of the Pacific Rim; embark on a night safari at the Singapore Zoo or relax in the verdant shade of the Bukit Timah Nature Preserve. Wander the wondrously futuristic Gardens By the Bay before relaxing with a refreshing Singapore Sling at the iconic Raffles Hotel.

Planned Excursion: SPIRIT OF SINGAPORE

4.0 Hours                           Moderate Activity                           # SIN-014: Free

See how Singapore has embraced futuristic design while still honoring its past.  Behold buildings as dissimilar as soaring skyscrapers and the city’s oldest Hindu temple.  Stroll through the city’s serene botanical gardens, Singapore’s first World Heritage site, housing approximately 60,000 orchids of 1,000 species and 20,000 hybrids.

Morning Update: We are arriving at 10 AM and it's an overnight stop.  We have two planned excursions over the next two days. We have never been here and have heard is a very nice place to visit.  Really looking forward to the next couple days.

Evening Update: The process getting off the ship and through Immigration and Customs was an experience to say the least.  Our first trip through we not only had to see a customs officer but have our figure prints and picture taken to verify our identity.   On our return back to the ship we had to go through this all over again without the customs agent.  This automatic pass through, scanned your passport, took your thumb print and picture to again verify you ID.  I had to make three attempts to finally get through.  It was the picture ID verification that kept failing.  

Once back on board we stayed for a couple of hours having a very late lunch.  Since we were here overnight and there was plenty of shopping attached to the cruise terminal, we decided to go off the ship again.  Getting off through the automated passport and ID check took me two attempts and Cathy made it through in the first.   There was a lot of shopping and many of the locals were in the shopping mall due to the nearby area is mostly residential. In the end we didn’t purchase anything.  Cathy was disappointed in the clothing shops only had the smaller sizes. 

Again, on our way back to the ship we had difficultly getting through the passport and ID checks.  As a result of this frustration getting off and back on the ship again, we decided to remain on board the second day in Singapore.   

Click Here --> Singapore Pictures 

Click Here --> Video Gardens by the Bay Light Show part 1

Click Here --> Video Gardens by the Bay Light Show part 2

Day 72 - CRUISING THE KARIMATA STRAIT

 Date: 3/17/2024     Day 72                       Sea Day: CRUISING THE KARIMATA STRAIT

The Karimata Strait (alternatively, Carimata or Caramata; Indonesian: Selat Karimata) is a wide strait that connects the South China Sea to the Java Sea, separating the Indonesian islands of Belitung to the west and Borneo (Kalimantan) to the east. It is the widest strait between the South China Sea and the Java Sea (other straits include the Bangka and Gaspar straits), but its numerous islands and reefs reduce its navigability. Its weather and current is influenced by the annual southeast and northwest monsoon.

Today's Update: Today is a sea day before we arrive in Singapore.  The last two days in Indonesia were spent going shopping.  We turned in our tickets for the planned excursions because they required hours in a craped bus.  These coach buses are built for smaller people, not Americans.  Our last excursion was to take us far into the mountains and then ride a horse to the temple runes.   There were health restrictions due to the elevation and strenuous activity.  I fell into several of the categories and Cathy didn't want to get on a horse.   We are really looking forward to Singapore and it's going to be an overnight stop.  

Day 70 - SURABAYA, INDONESIA

 Date: 3/15/2024    Day 70                       Port: SURABAYA, INDONESIA

Description: From Buddhist temples to an historic Arab Quarter, the capital of Indonesia’s East Java province is known as a gateway city but you’ll find charms throughout its diverse neighborhoods. One of the most unusual is the House of Sampoerna, a well-preserved historical site built in the 19th-century Dutch colonial style that includes a museum, café and art gallery. You’ll spot the turquoise, dome-shaped roof of the remarkable Al Akbar Mosque Surabaya from anywhere in the city. Opened in 2000, the stylish masterpiece provides spectacular views from atop the freestanding, ottoman-style minaret. Dine on a variety of East Javanese dishes made from locally caught seafood.

Planned Excursion: TROWULAN HISTORICAL SITE (Cancelled)

6.5 Hours                             Moderate Activity                            # SBY-004: Free

Explore the only excavated site in Indonesia that dates to the early 16th century.  Browse Hindu and Buddhist artifacts in the Trowulan Museum.  View a historically important, 14th-century gateway in the hamlet of Kraton.  Meander through the remains of the medieval Candi Tikus temple.

Today's Notes: Reading more closely the complete description of the planned excursion we decided to turn in our tickets and take the shuttle to town.  We would have spent 4 hours on the bus to spend only about an hour at the tour location.  Many others did the same and we were glad we did.  The shuttle took us to a massive mall.  It reminded us a bit like Mall of America in Minneapolis.   Our dollar is very strong here and prices are extremely cheap after making the conversion from Indonesian Rupp's to the dollar.  Tomorrow we are not going far, just a bit further to SEMARANG (JAVA), INDONESIA.  We are thinking about skipping tomorrow's excursion as well since it's another long bus ride and go shopping again.  

Day 68 - BALI (BENOA), INDONESIA

 Date: 3/13/2024     Day 68                       Port: BALI (BENOA), INDONESIA

Description: Benoa’s charms are most evident in Nusa Dua, one of the most beautiful beaches in already-legendary Bali. In this land of rice terraces, spectacular volcanoes and over 20,000 temples, the main destination is the stunning 17th-century royal temple complex of Pura Taman Ayun in nearby Mengwi, surrounded by a lotus-filled moat, giving it the feel of a garden sanctuary. Another favorite is the Sunset Temple, Tanah Lot, and don’t miss the batik factories for that perfect gift or souvenir.

Planned Excursion: ROYAL TEMPLE & TANAH LOT

6.5 Hours                           Moderate Activity                           # BAJ-005: Free

Visit a royal temple complex constructed in the 17th century.  Explore Tanah Lot, another temple in an incredibly dramatic seaside setting.

Today's Notes: We arrived at 10:00 AM and was off the ship for our first excursion by 10:30 AM.  We spent a lot of time on a bus traveling on single lane roads to visit the two temples.  The traffic was mostly motorcycles and scooters.  It was mostly overcast skies shielding us from most of the intense sun, temps in the low 90's / Hi humidity.  I have three great videos with the third being the secon evening World Cruise Event which was awesome.  At the end of this video there is a Grand Finale, please check them all out.  

Click Here --> Bali(Benoa)Pictures

Videos:

Click Here --> BALI (BENOA)-INDONESIA - Royal Temple complex

Click Here --> BALI (BENOA)-INDONESIA - Tanah Lot Temple complex

Click Here --> BALI (BENOA)-INDONESIA - World Cruise Event

Day 67 - KOMODO, INDONESIA

 Date: 3/12/2024     Day 67 ⚓                   Anchor Port: KOMODO, INDONESIA

Description: Indonesia’s isolated Komodo Island is a natural wonder of tropical savanna and scrubland, home to the famed pre-historic Komodo dragon. Komodo National Park is the only place on earth that they can be found in the wild. The island of Komodo itself is about 60 squares miles in area with dramatic landscapes of 2,000 foot craggy mountains, canyons, Savannas and monsoon rain forests in the valleys. Human habitation is therefore limited to only one settlement in Slawi Bay.

Planned Excursion: KOMODO DRAGONS

2.0 Hours                           Strenuous Activity                           # KOM-001: Free

Follow a park ranger through Komodo Island, seeking Komodo dragons in the wild.  Hear the blood-curdling details of how these giant lizards relentlessly hunt their prey.  Listen as the park ranger describes the lizards’ physical characteristics.

Today's Update: Another hot and humid day with no rain, just a few broken clouds.  Today was a tendering port were we took the lifeboats ashore.  Guides met us at the end of the pier and took us in small groups of about 15 on a 2 mile walk through the park.  We saw what we were promised please click on the link to the pictures below.  

Click Here --> Komodo Indonesia pictures

Day 66 - CRUISING THE TIMOR SEA

 Date: 3/11/2024     Day 66                       Sea Day: CRUISING THE TIMOR SEA

The Timor Sea is a relatively shallow sea in the Indian Ocean, bounded by the island of Timor to the north, Timor-Leste to the north, Indonesia to the northwest, Arafura Sea to the east, and Australia to the south.12 It covers an area of approximately 610,000 sq. km and has a maximum width of 480km.1 The Sunda Trench marks the deepest point of the Timor Sea with a depth of more than 3300 meters, separating the continents of Oceania in the southeast and Asia to the northwest and north.2 The sea is well known for generating typhoons and is situated close to the three gulfs namely the Beagle Gulf, the Van Diemen Gulf, and the Joseph Bonaparte Gulf on the north Australian coast.

Morning Update:  The seas are a bit rougher than they have been the last few days.  The ship is still riding very smooth despite the a few white caps on the sea.   We moved ship's time back another hour last night.  We are physically in time zone UTC+08:00.  However, because we had adjusted the 30 minute setback to match Darwin time (UTC+09:30, last night's time adjustment appears to match nowhere.  I am having trouble resetting my computers and Fitbit devices.  Especially Fitbit because it dose not provide for a manual setting, just time zone selections, and not all time zone's are defined.  Ship's time is now UTC+8:30 for which I cannot find a matching time zone.  

Today is a sea day before our next port Komodo Island.   So I am going to work on the video I took yesterday and get that uploaded and posted.  So please check back to my post for Darwin for those updates.

Click Here --> Darwin WILDLIFE PARK - Birds of prey video

Day 65 - DARWIN, AUSTRALIA

 Date: 3/10/2024     Day 65                       Port: DARWIN, AUSTRALIA

Description: Along the coast of the Northern Territory lies Darwin, a city isolated by the vast Australian desert. The area was sought by the French, Dutch and British, and was established as the town of Darwin in 1869. In 1942, the city was under the threat of a Japanese attack, so a major Australian military base was established. Today Darwin is the largest city of the Northern Territory, offering sights from its colonial past and excellent shopping and dining opportunities.

Planned Excursion: TERRITORY WILDLIFE PARK

5.0 Hours                           Light Activity                     # DRW-001: Free

Travel by coach across scenic Northern Territory terrain to a native Aussie wildlife park large enough to qualify as a territory of its own.  Equipped with a map and ideas of what you’d most like to see, explore the park independently.  Use convenient park trolley shuttles and walking paths to move between exhibits and experiences.  Stroll a walk-through aquarium, enter a fascinating Nocturnal House, watch a thrilling birds of prey demonstration, tour an enormous rainforest aviary, and more.

Morning Update:  We woke up to a very warm and sunny day.  The forecast is an 80% chance of Thunderstorm's all day.  It's one of the wet's places in the world.  So we will be packing both our rain gear and umbrella (ship provided).   

I complete processing and uploading all video taken in Carin's at the Great Barrier Reef.   I'll repost here for your convenience.  Check it out...

Click Here --> Great Barrier Reef video part 1

Click Here --> Great Barrier Reef video part 2

Click Here --> Great Barrier Reef video part 3

Afternoon Update:  Very little rain materialized throughout the day.  The wildlife park was very nice with the attractions and exhibits spread-out over many acres.   General a 1/4 to 1/2 mile between them.  We saw but two of the 8 to 10 areas.  It just was to hot and humid to enjoy the park fully.  I do have some video and a few pictures to share tomorrow while at sea.  

Click Here --> WILDLIFE PARK - Birds of prey video

Day 64 - CRUISING THE ARAFURA SEA

 Date: 3/8/2024       Day 64                      Sea Day: THE ARAFURA SEA

The Arafura Sea is a marginal sea of the western Pacific Ocean located between Australia and Western New Guinea.012 It covers a surface area of approximately 650,000 square kilometers and connects to the Coral Sea through the Torres Strait. The sea is important for the Australians and Indonesians living near its coast because of its rich fishery resources. It is an important sea linking the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean and plays a critical role in global circulation. The Arafura Sea is generally shallow, with depths of 165 to 260 feet, deepening at its western edge, where coral reefs have grown at depths of nearly 2,000 feet.3 It is bordered by the Gulf of Carpentaria and the continent of Australia.

Morning Update:  Another calm day at sea before we are due into Darwin tonight.  Yesterday evening the seas were like glass.  I spent the day going frame by frame video I took while snorkeling the Greatc Barrier Reef.  Please check it out, the link is found at the bottom of "Day 61 - CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA". I am going to finish up with both video and pictures today and post additional links to day 61.  

Afternoon Update:  I completed the upload of two additional videos today.  Much of the time while snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef there was overcast skies resulting in subdued colors on the Reef.  The second video had some sunny breaks exposing more color.  Check them out...

Click Here --> Great Barrier Reef video part 1

Click Here --> Great Barrier Reef video part 2

Click Here --> Great Barrier Reef video part 3

Day 63 - CRUISING THE ARAFURA SEA

 Date: 3/8/2024       Day 63                       Sea Day: THE ARAFURA SEA

The Arafura Sea is a marginal sea of the western Pacific Ocean located between Australia and Western New Guinea.012 It covers a surface area of approximately 650,000 square kilometers and connects to the Coral Sea through the Torres Strait. The sea is important for the Australians and Indonesians living near its coast because of its rich fishery resources. It is an important sea linking the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean and plays a critical role in global circulation. The Arafura Sea is generally shallow, with depths of 165 to 260 feet, deepening at its western edge, where coral reefs have grown at depths of nearly 2,000 feet.3 It is bordered by the Gulf of Carpentaria and the continent of Australia.

Morning Update:  After our cancelled stop due to weather in Cooktown we have had smooth sailing.  The seas in the Coral Sea yesterday and Arafura sea today are much calmer. I updated my post for Day 57 Newcastle yesterday with many photos.  Over the next two days I will working on processing and uploading pictures and video taken Day 60 Townsville. 

Day 62 - COOKTOWN, AUSTRALIA

 Date: 3/7/2024       Day 62 ⚓                   Anchor Port: COOKTOWN, AUSTRALIA

Description: This quaint frontier town, scenically located on Cape York Peninsula in Far North Queensland, Cooktown is the site of Australia’s first European settlement. The town is named after the famous South Seas explorer Captain Cook, and Cook’s Pillar marks the spot where his ship, the Endeavour landed ashore in 1770. Grassy Hill offers a 360° panorama of the countryside and pristine beaches. The area remains a near-wilderness offering dramatic mountains, eucalypts, mangroves and rainforests, heathlands, grasslands, and rivers for the adventurous traveler.

Planned Excursion: HISTORIC COOKTOWN Cancelled

8:15 AM 2.0 Hours                          Moderate Activity                           # CNS-001: Free

Enjoy a guided overview of Australia’s first non-indigenous settlement, founded temporarily and by accident by Captain James Cook.  Drive through town and up to the top of Grassy Hill, where Cook saw much the same views you will.  Visit a museum brimming with artifacts from Cook’s ship, from journals to an anchor and cannon.  Take a relaxed stroll through tropical botanic gardens established in 1878 and see colorful, curious plants long-used for food and medicine by local aboriginal peoples.

Today's Notes: Our stop in Cooktown was cancelled do to weather conditions.  It was to rough to take the tender (lifeboats) into town.  The captain reported that conditions were expected to worsen by the afternoon.  So I have an additional day to review and process pictures and video taken over the past few days.  

Day 61 - CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA

 Date: 3/6/2024       Day 61                       Port: CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA

Description: Cairns is the capital of Far North Queensland, and its east coastal cities rest along the Great Barrier Reef. The state of Queensland occupies a vast 667,000 square miles and much of the land remains uninhabited, covered with miles of rainforest where Australian teak, hopp, pine and fig trees abound. Before 1879, when the city of Cairns was established, the only inhabitants of this region were the Aborigines, the culture for which Australia is perhaps best known.

Planned Excursions:

GREAT BARRIER REEF ADVENTURE (Ed)

9:15 AM 8.0 Hours                          Moderate Activity                           #CNS-008: $229.00

Enjoy a leisurely 90-minute sail to the Outer Great Barrier Reef by luxury catamaran.  Arrive at a pontoon atop the world’s lushest marine habitat, your playground for the next few hours.  Choose from a range of activities offered – semi-submersible ride, independent snorkeling, onboard underwater viewing chamber, optional scuba or escorted snorkeling, and more.  Experience breathtaking views of colorful reef fish and intricate coral gardens.  Graze an extensive buffet lunch with soft drinks included; bar drinks are available for an additional cost.

BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY & AUSSIE WILDLIFE (Cathy)

9:15 AM 4.0 Hours                          Moderate Activity                           # CNS-001: Free

Travel by coach to rainforest-surrounded Kuranda and enjoy an introductory drive through this charming mountain township.  Step inside the natural aviary at Australian Butterfly Sanctuary to meet its colorful residents; wear something bright and they might land on you.  Encounter kangaroos, wallabies and irresistibly cuddly koalas at the Koala and Wildlife Sanctuary.  Catch great Coral Sea and Green Island views on the way down the mountain and back to Cairns.

Today's Notes:  Two days ago I was able to change my excursion from what Cathy, Joe and Pat went on today, to snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef.  I nearly missed it.  The ship provides expert talks on places we are going to be visiting.  One of those was a talk on Cairns.  OMG we were going to be visiting the Great Barrier Reef, why had I not booked a snorkeling excursion.  So immediately, after the talk, I went down to the Destination desk.  I was lucky space was available.  You see, I have brought my own equipment and have not had a chance to use it yet.   At some of the South Pacific stops we missed due to weather, I had booked a snorkeling excursions.  

Pat got another chance today to hold a Koala.  So that's two days in row she got to hold one.  They enjoyed their excursion as I with my trip to the Great Barrier Reef.  There was quite a bit of rain off and on today.  Forecast for the next two remaining stops in Australia is much of the same.  

Click Here --> Great Barrier Reef video part 1

Click Here --> Great Barrier Reef video part 2

Click Here --> Great Barrier Reef video part 3

Day 60 - TOWNSVILLE, AUSTRALIA

 Date: 3/5/2024       Day 60                       Port: TOWNSVILLE, AUSTRALIA

Description: Head out to the Great Barrier Reef Headquarters Aquarium, or discover the local beaches and enjoy the tropical scenery, the seafront promenade, galleries and shops. Venture out to stunning Magnetic Island with its national park, miles of walking trails and wildlife. Take home local artwork, crafts, jewelry and souvenirs. Savor fresh seafood along with a wide variety of international cuisines, perhaps a cold beer or a glass of fine wine.

Planned Excursion: CHARTERS TOWERS GOLD RUSH

11:30 AM 8.0 Hours                       Moderate Activity                           # NEC-003: Free

Journey by coach to a gold-rush mecca in the Outback beyond Townsville’s western mountains.  Experience the enduring boomtime grandeur of Charters Towers, where some 7 million ounces came out of the ground between 1871 and 1911.  Explore the shining town landmarks, and visit the crusty old Venus Battery Mill, where a local guide will share colorful tales of the olden, golden days.  Enjoy casual lunch at a local café and spend the afternoon soaking up more of the local atmosphere.

Morning Update: Seas are calm today and poking my head outside on my deck, it's very warm and humid.  We're heading into the Outback on a 2 hr bus ride each way.  Our ship is only going to be in port for 9 hrs (11 AM - 8 PM).  One benefit to an excursions booked with the ship is if we are late getting back they have to wait for us.  However, if you are out on your own and don't get back before the all on board time, they will leave you behind.  

Joe and Pat are going an excursion that they have been told Pat will get to hold a Koala, her life long dream.   

Afternoon Update:  Pat was able to hold her Koala, not once but twice.  We had a long hot day on the edge of the outback.   It was a very lovely small town with historic building.  

Click Here --> Townsville pictures (updated 3/7/2024)

Day 58 - CRUISING THE CORAL SEA

 Date: 3/3/2024       Day 58                       Sea Day: CRUISING THE CORAL SEA

The Coral Sea (French: Mer de Corail) is a marginal sea of the South Pacific off the northeast coast of Australia, and classified as an interim Australian bioregion. The Coral Sea extends 2,000 kilometers (1,200 mi) down the Australian northeast coast.

Morning Update:  We moved the ship's time back another hour last night (Time Zone UTC+10:00).  Today and tomorrow are sea days heading towards our next stop in Townsville, Australia.  Again I will be processing pictures and video taken since arriving in Sydney over the next two days.  So please check back to those previous posts to see the newly uploaded pics and video.  

Day 57 - NEWCASTLE, AUSTRALIA

 Date: 3/2/2024       Day 57                       Port: NEWCASTLE, AUSTRALIA

Description: This welcoming beachside city boasts an intriguing maritime history along with beautiful coastline and diverse natural landscapes ranging from lush rainforests to preserved wetlands to coastal sand dunes. In addition to its celebrated beaches, the city’s unique ocean baths are among the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. The most spectacular views of the beaches and harbor are found at Fort Scratchley Historic Site, where you can also learn about the city’s naval and mining history in the system of underground tunnels. For a taste of the local flavor, stroll down Darby Street and find great eateries and restaurants.

Today's Notes: We met and spent the day with good friends we made on a previous cross Pacific cruise from Sydney to Seattle (28 day cruise).  They live about a hour's drive back towards Sydney on lake Tuggerah near what's called "The Entrance".  On a return cruise a year later from Seattle to Sydney in October 2018, they met us in Sydney and we spent serval days with them and another couple  before returning back to Alaska.  

We all had a wonderful day reconnecting, doing some much needed shopping to restock our essentials, seeing the sites around Newcastle and lunch.  On the shopping trip we bought two additional bags for our flights home.  We pushed the limits on our carry-on bags flying down to Miami.  So we'll consolidate to into the new bags and have a bit of extra room for the all stuff we're buying along our journey.  Those we'll check.  We flew down with no checked baggage.

Click Here --> Pictures from Newcastle