Day 133 of 148 - SANTA CRUZ DE LA PALMA, CANARY ISLANDS

 Date: 5/17/2024   Day 133   Port: SANTA CRUZ DE LA PALMA, CANARY ISLANDS

Description: Discover gorgeous Santa Cruz de La Palma with its colorful buildings, 18th Century mansions, and wrought-iron balconies draped with lush bougainvillea, dramatic volcanic mountains, and fertile green valleys set amid a pristine turquoise sea. Explore the star-shaped 17th Century Castillo de Santa Catarina fortress. Then visit the Moorish influenced Iglesia de El Salvador to admire the luminous stained-glass windows. Stroll along O’Daly Street browsing through lovely boutiques, antique and artisan shops. Enjoy a glass of fine Canary Island wine in a jewel-like setting.

Planned Excursion: NORTH ISLAND SIGHTS

4.0 Hours   Strenuous Activity   #SCZ-002

Marvel at the exhilarating view from San Bartolo, a scenic lookout flanked by spectacular canyons.  See the unspoiled glory of a massive laurel forest at Los Tilos, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.  Look for stunning local plants at Los Tilos, including the Canary bellflower and the Strawberry Tree.  Visit a rum distillery to learn how the sweet spirit is made and relish a tasting.  Admire an array of brilliant, lava-created swimming pools at entrancing Charco Azul.  Walk along the coast or simply absorb the stunning sights of northern La Palma.

Today's Notes: Oh what a beautiful stop.  This is where the European's go to escape winter.  The coldest it gets in winter is the low 60's.  It's perfect banana growing region along with sugar Cain.  We had a lovely ride into the mountains and spectacular views along the coast road to a high overlook.  We stopped at the Biosphere Reserve for about 45 minutes.  It was time enough to take a pleasant although steep climb up the trail leading into the forest.  

Click Here --> Santa Cruz De La Palma Pictures

Days 131-132 of 148 - CRUISING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

 Date: 5/16/2024   Day 132  Sea Day: CRUISING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

Description: The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest of the world's five oceans, with an area of about 85,133,000 km2 (32,870,000 sq mi). It covers approximately 17% of Earth's surface and about 24% of its water surface area. During the Age of Discovery, it was known for separating the Old World of Africa, Europe, and Asia from the New World of the Americas.

Morning Update:  Tomorrow May 17th would have been our disembarkation day with the original World Cruise itinerary.   Instead we will be at our next port-of-call on the new modified itinerary, SANTA CRUZ DE LA PALMA, CANARY ISLANDS.  The seas are much calmer this morning over yesterday.  It's cool and cloudy with occasional rain showers.  

Here are links to our current modified 2024 World Cruise itinerary and our next cruise segment returning us back to the US free of charge.    

Click Here --> 2024 World Cruise Itinerary

Click Here --> Final Cruise segment Lisbon to New York

Please note, just click past any popup window wanting your info.  There is an X in the upper right corner, clicking on that will cancel the popup and take you to the cruise information and itinerary.  

Day 130 of 148 - MINDELO (SAO VICENTE), CAPE VERDE

 Date: 5/14/2024   Day 130  Port Day: MINDELO (SAO VICENTE), CAPE VERDE

Description: Explore the Colonial past of Mindelo, the cultural center of Cape Verde with its distinctive blend of Portuguese and African influences. Make your way on foot to the Governor’s palace. Painted pink, it stands out among the other, smaller colonial era houses. Be sure to visit the Cape Verde Handicraft Museum before a stop at the fish market and the lively main municipal market in its own grand old colonial building. Shop for traditional handicrafts, pottery, baskets and woven items. Monte Verde, the highest peak calls to the intrepid hiker. Breathtaking views make the effort highly rewarding. Stroll along the waterfront and relax over a meal of local stew called cachupa, or a fresh fish delicacy in this lively exotic destination.

Planned Excursion: MINDELO – THE CULTURAL CAPITAL Cancelled

Today's Notes: Oh my, what a wonderful stop after Africa.  It was a most welcome change over what we have experienced in Africa.   I believe many of us including ourselves (I have talked with others onboard) have been a bit traumatize by what we have seen at the last few African stops.  This is a clean and very walkable city.  We all decided to skip our excursion and go into town.  Pat and Joe took the shuttle and Cathy and I walked, it was only a 20 minute walk from the pier.

The weather was nearly perfect, sunny in the upper 70's.  It was breezy at times which helped to keep us nice and cool.  We walked allover the city going down the many narrow side streets.  The city was so clean everywhere.  Pat and Joe bought a few souvenirs.  We felt very safe and was not hassled at all by the locals trying to sell us something.  

Click here --> Cape Verde Pictures

View from the deck as we were arriving in Cape Verde

Day 129 of 148 - CRUISING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

 Date: 5/13/2024   Day 129  Sea Day: CRUISING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

Description: The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest of the world's five oceans, with an area of about 85,133,000 km2 (32,870,000 sq mi). It covers approximately 17% of Earth's surface and about 24% of its water surface area. During the Age of Discovery, it was known for separating the Old World of Africa, Europe, and Asia from the New World of the Americas.

Afternoon Update:  Today is a windy, partly cloudy day in the mid 70's.  We have moderate rough seas and Cathy is holding up better this afternoon than this morning.  We went down to deck 5, midship main dining room for lunch.  It tends to be rougher ride in our cabin than where we were at lunch.  Our only other option for lunch was up on deck 11 buffet.  The buffet is also at the rear where the ride is even more amplified.  

Day 128 of 148 - DAKAR, SENEGAL

 Date: 5/12/2024  Day 128   Port Day: DAKAR, SENEGAL

Description: Experience the rhythm and vibrancy of Dakar with its bustling open-air markets, historical colonial architecture and French influences. Visit the African Renaissance Monument standing taller than the Statue of Liberty. Look for embroidered cloth, lace, and silk to turn into traditional robes called boubou. Try bissap, the local tea made with hibiscus, sugar and water. Browse through the gallery and gardens of L’Institut Francais. Savor a café au lait and pastry as you revel in the syncopated rhythm of this dynamic city.

Planned Excursion: HIGHLIGHTS OF DAKAR

4.0 Hours   Light Activity   #DAK-003

Capture dynamic photos at the busy Kermel Market and the neoclassical Presidential Palace.  View Dakar highlights such as Our Lady of Victories Cathedral, the Médina district and the Dakar Grand Mosque.  Gaze at the arresting Gate of the Third Millennium and take in breathtaking vistas from an ideally placed lookout.  Stroll the Soumbedioune Market in search of vibrant art and local handicrafts.  Observe the affluent Fann Corniche district and a university library built in the International Style.  Appreciate the creative use of sand as art at the Sand Painting Gallery, perhaps purchasing an eye-catching canvas for yourself.

Today's Notes: Today was the worst experience yet of all the excursions we have taken this far.  Cathy and myself only got off the bus once of the 4 hours spent on the bus.  Joe Rawson did get off the bus a few more times.  Pat Rawson remained onboard for the entire day.  

Most of the sites listed in the description above were drive byes.  Those that got off the bus at our first stop, a wet fish market, reported appalling conditions and smells that turned their stomachs. They couldn't wait to get back on the bus.  That pretty much set the tone for the rest of the excursion.  The city as a whole was very dirty and buildings in states of disrepair.   Most new construction appeared to be progressing slowly or not at all, abandoned with squatters living inside.  

I really wanted to see and perhaps say a few prayers at Our Lady of Victories Cathedral.  After getting off the bus we discovered the gate closed and locked.  This being Sunday it was surprising the church was already closed for the day when we arrived at 2 PM.   

It was unclear at the Dakar Grand Mosque (trip advisor pictures) whether we would be able to go inside.  Our guide, who was not very good, indicated we would only be stopping for 10 minutes for outside photos.  We remained onboard.  To the guides surprise that those that did get off the bus, they were met by security guards.  They offered an inside tour and gave the necessary coverings.  Those that went inside did report a very beautiful Mosque.  

Worthwhile stops were the last two,  African Renaissance Monument and Sand Painting demonstration and Gallery.  

Please check back for photo's.  I have a few and Joe Rawson has some that he need's to share with me.  

Day 128 - Morning Update - Back to normal

Just thought I would post this quick update from early this morning. We are no longer under the protection of armed security onboard.

Approximately at 5:30 AM our ship slowed to a stop.  A small zodiac craft was launched and all the security personnel's weapons were off loaded onto this craft. It then motored over to a small ship to transfer those weapons.  I could not make out the smaller ship, it could have been military.  The ship's AIS no longer is reporting "Armed Security onboard".  Notice the jog in our plotted progress near the port of Banjul.  

AIS is now reporting our true destination

Heading to Dakar due in at 11 AM

Days 126,127 of 148 - CRUISING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

 Date: 5/11/2024   Day 127  Sea Day: CRUISING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

Description: The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest of the world's five oceans, with an area of about 85,133,000 km2 (32,870,000 sq mi). It covers approximately 17% of Earth's surface and about 24% of its water surface area. During the Age of Discovery, it was known for separating the Old World of Africa, Europe, and Asia from the New World of the Americas.

Morning Update: This is our second sea day after leaving Ivory Coast.  Tomorrow we are due into DAKAR, SENEGAL at 11 AM.  Checking the US State Department travel advisory listings Senegal is currently at the lowest advisory level 1 (Exercise normal precautions).  So we are planning on going on our excursion tomorrow.  

Day 125 of 148 - ABIDJAN, IVORY COAST

 Date: 5/09/2024  Day 125  Port Day: ABIDJAN, IVORY COAST

Description: The Ivory Coast's largest city and former capital, skyscraper-studded Abidjan curves around placid Ebrié Lagoon. Being one of the world's largest French-speaking cities, it's often referred to as the "Paris of Africa." Abidjan's more affluent Le Plateau and Cocody neighborhoods exude a palpable European ambiance. Take in the city’s modern architecture whether visiting the Cathedrale St. Paul or La Pyramide. For those that prefer a comprehensive overview of Abidjan’s history, tour the National Museum, which houses an interesting collection of traditional art, including masks, pottery and wooden statues.

Planned Excursion: GRAND BASSAM Cancelled

8.0 Hours    Strenuous Activity    #ABJ-001

View the colonial buildings of Grand Bassam, briefly the capital of the Ivory Coast in the 1890s.  Gain a greater understanding of the Ivory Coast through fascinating exhibits at the National Costume Museum.  Lunch at the oceanside Assoyam Beach Resort and perhaps enjoy an invigorating dip afterward.  Browse Grand Bassam’s finest craft market and appreciate the handiwork of local artisans.

Today's Notes: Again today it was going to be a hot and humid day.  Also, reports from other's who were here on last year's World Cruise, this port was not to safe and to expect more of the same impoverish landscape.  We all decided to remain onboard, myself, Cathy, Joe and Pat.  So in the final analyst we just didn't want to spend hours on a bus to then get out into hot and humid weather to tour the sites.   Everyone did arrive back safe and without any reported issues.  We did talk to a couple who went on the tour we were booked on.  They said it was just OK and noted again now all the old colonial buildings were in bad need of repair and the tin roofed shack's residential neighborhoods.   

I watched two muti-bus caravans depart on their respective tour's.  They were accompanied by police escort's, front, middle and behind the bus caravans.  They were also followed by a medical support vehicles.  This is the second port-of-call where the ship felt it needed to take these measures to keep their guests safe.  Or it's possible the local authorities have required this level of safety.   

See Notes in the picture

See Notes in the picture

See Notes in the picture

See Notes in the picture

Police or military pier security patrolled most of the day.

Day 124 of 148 - SEKONDI, GHANA

 Date: 5/08/2024   Day 124   Port Day: SEKONDI, GHANA

Description: The Portuguese explorers who landed in the country in 1471 named it the Gold Coast. English, Danish, Dutch and Germans built their forts (castles )here to reap the abundant riches. In the 17th century, Frederick William, the Great Elector of Brandenburg, built a fort called Taccarary which later became known as Takoradi. Visitors can observe a window into the natural world of Ghana at the Monkey Hill nature preserve located in the heart of the city. Further afield join us as we look back at the tragic history of the Atlantic slave trade at Elmina Castle, the earliest known European structure in the tropics; built in 1482 by the Portuguese. Wander the ramparts of Cape Coast Castle and view villagers mending fishing nets and setting out to sea in painted fishing canoes. Explore one of the Ghana’s last remaining tropical forests at Kakum National Park and walk through the verdant canopy.

Planned Excursion: TWIN CITY OF SEKONDI-TAKORADI

3.25 Hours   Light Activity   #TKD-003

Discover a virgin forest filled with monkeys and exotic birds at Monkey Hill in metropolitan Takoradi.  See the European influence on Sekondi in its colonial architecture and tree-lined residential neighborhoods.  Observe the lively activity of Albert Bosomtwi-Sam Fishing Harbor.  View imposing Fort Orange lighthouse and Takoradi Market Circle, a commercial and economic hub.  Revel in a joyous cultural show with refreshments at a local hotel.

Today's Notes: Much of what was described above for our excursion we did not see.  Again, this is a very poor country with tin roofed shacks for homes, pot-holed streets mostly dirt no pavement.  We had police escort in front and behind our bus caravan of 4 buses.   One of the buses experienced a breakdown and we all had to wait for a replacement before proceeding on.  We did visit the fishing harbor, fish market and ice house providing ice to the fishermen before going out fishing.  After this we traveled back through town to a 4 star hotel to view traditional dancing while enjoying refreshments.  I have upload videos of the cultural dancing.   After this we drove back to the ship.  There were large perhaps historic building we viewed from the bus in poor repair.  It appears once these buildings were built they were not maintained.  

Videos:

Click Here --> SEKONDI-GHANA Traditional Dancers part 1

Click Here --> SEKONDI-GHANA Traditional Dancers part 2

Click Here --> SEKONDI-GHANA Traditional Dancers part 3

Pictures:

Please check back to this post for updates.  

Day 123 of 148 - COTONOU, BENIN

 Date: 5/07/2024   Day 123   Port Day: COTONOU, BENIN

Description: Cotonou, on the Gulf of Guinea is Benin's chief seaport and commercial center. At the beginning of the 19th century, Cotonou was a small fishing village dominated by the powerful Kingdom of Dahomey with its elite corps of Amazon warriors. In the 19th century it became a French trading enclave and colony. In the city, view the Cotonou Friendship Stadium, the Cotonou Cathedral with its distinctive striped exterior, Cotonou Central Mosque and Dantokpa Market offering goods and produce from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. A familiar feature of the city is the motorcycle-taxis known as Zémidjans. Memorable excursions include a cruise across Nokoue Lake to the traditional village of Ganvie; a royal reception with the king of Abomey or a tour of Benin's captivating capital city of Porto-Novo.

Planned Excursion: PORTO NOVO  Cancelled

5.25 Hours   Light Activity   #COO-003

Visit Benin’s capital city of Porto-Novo, home to the Goun and Yoruba people.  Discover the Musée Honmé, 19th-century King Toffa’s former royal palace.  Explore the Ethnographic Museum for insights into unique aspects of life in Benin.  Attend a captivating mask dance and view an extensive Gelede mask collection.

Afternoon Update: We decided as did some others to turn our tickets in and remain onboard today.  It was forecasted to be hot and humid again today.  This tour required riding in the bus for 3 hours to see the few stops of interest.  Another deciding factor was that no pictures or video was permitted at the main two of three stops.   

Day 122 of 148 - CRUISNG THE GULF OF GUINEA

 Date: 5/06/2024   Day 122   Sea Day: CRUISNG THE GULF OF GUINEA

Description: The Gulf of Guinea is the northeastern most part of the tropical Atlantic Ocean from Cape Lopez in Gabon, north and west to Cape Palmas in Liberia. Null Island, defined as the intersection of the Equator and Prime Meridian (zero degrees latitude and longitude), is in the gulf.

Daily Notes: It seems so long ago when we started this cruise back on January 6th.  We're looking forward to getting home as this replacement itinerary around Africa, over the cancelled itinerary up through the Rea Sea and into the Mediterranean, is proving disappointing.  Cathy and I are feeling a bit homesick.  

My goal today is reviewing the few pictures and video I took on yesterday's excursion (see day 121).  

Day 121 of 148 - SAO TOME, SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE

Date: 5/05/2024     Day 121    Port Day: SAO TOME, SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE

Description: Off the beaten path, São Tomé is a tropical paradise that offers lush rainforests, bird watching, secluded waterfalls and pristine, isolated beaches. Discovered and claimed by Portugal in the late 15th century, the tiny volcanic island offers a unique blend of Portuguese and Creole culture rarely seen anywhere else in the world. Enjoy spectacular views on a hike to the peak of Pico de São Tomé, go in search of the 109 species of orchid, or marvel at the impressive Boca do Inferno blowhole.

Planned Excursion: BIRD WATCHING & SAO NICOLAU WATERFALL

3.5 Hour     Moderate Activity    #TMS-002

Search for many of the approximately 135 avian species sighted around the island’s center.  Delight in approximately two hours of bird-watching near the enchanting São Nicolau (Saint Nicholas) waterfall.  Receive valuable information and helpful guidance from an expert guide.  Look for endemic species such as the bronze-naped pigeon, the giant weaver and the São Tomé paradise flycatcher.  Catalog sightings of African birds such as the harlequin quail and the velvet-mantled drongo.  Spot a São Tomé sunbird, formerly called the giant sunbird, which is unique to the area. 

Today's Update: I was able to change to the above excursion and my wife Cathy remained onboard.  It was reported and proved true that none of the tour buses had air-conditioning.  It was a hot and humid day and Cathy has been suffering from the heat when on tour.  We crossed the equator overnight for the 4th time on this World Cruise.  

My excursion today was longer than planned.  We went high into the mountains over 3,000 feet up to a botanical garden to look for the birds.  The birds are attracted to the gardens to feed (mostly in the morning).  We were delayed in getting off the ship and the rugged hour and half bus ride to the botanical garden, we did not arrive until midday.  Many of the birds were done feeding and laying low, roosting now in the building heat of the day.  So unfortunately we saw few birds and those we did find were high in the trees.  It was a bit cooler that this elevation and it was a nice walk in the woods viewing trees and plants of the garden.  

Our bus trip up to the botanical garden area was an adventure of it's own.  When we turned off the main paved road, we started up a rough cobblestone road.  It took another 45 minutes riding this narrow road traveling higher into the mountains.  We past through some small villages and the road was broken up or washed out in places.  There were many sharp rocks in the road and I was a bit worried we might get a flat tire.  I was amazed we navigated this road in both directions without getting one.  On our way back from the botanical garden we stopped at the waterfall.  It was impressive and were told it was the largest on the island.  

Click Here --> SAO TOME PICTURES

Click Here --> SAO TOME Saint Nicholas Falls VIDEO

Day 120 of 148 - CRUISING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

 Date: 5/04/2024     Day 120   Sea Day: CRUISING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

Description: The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest of the world's five oceans, with an area of about 85,133,000 km2 (32,870,000 sq mi). It covers approximately 17% of Earth's surface and about 24% of its water surface area. During the Age of Discovery, it was known for separating the Old World of Africa, Europe, and Asia from the New World of the Americas.

Afternoon Update: We are heading to the small island country of SAO TOME, SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE arriving tomorrow at 8 AM.  Tomorrow's forecast is a high of 85 degrees and 40% chance of rain.  Since this is a tendering port (ship is at anchor) we're going to assess the conditions on boarding the tender's taking us ashore.  If it looks to rough, we might just stay onboard.  We are scheduled to take one of those highlights tours tomorrow.  There is a birding excursion that is currently all booked up.  If the tendering conditions look favorable, we can try to go on the birding excursion instead if there are any "no shows".   

At one of the many talks today I learn the armed security personnel onboard are Navy Seal's.  I am sure they are retired seals working for a security company.  It's rumored that they have a support vessel following us out of sight.   We continue to darken the ship every night from sunset to sunrise.  

Day 119 of 149 - LUANDA, ANGOLA

 Date: 5/03/2024   Day 119   Port Day: LUANDA, ANGOLA

Description: Angola’s capital and most populous city, Luanda has enjoyed a massive boom in construction in the last decade following the end of the Angola Civil War. Learn about the history of Angola at the many superb museums, historical sites and monuments throughout the city. The Parque Nacional da Kissama, south of Luanda, is an expansive wildlife park with elephants, water buffalo, antelopes and nesting sea turtles. Kissama is at forefront of Angola’s wildlife regeneration efforts in conjunction with a pioneering relief project known as Operation Noah’s Ark.

Planned Excursion: None

Today's Notes: It was a beautiful sunny day with a high temp in the upper 80's.  There were few excursions to choose from.  Some folks did go on a 2 hr excursion.  We decided to take the shuttle bus to the local mall.  It turned out to be a very new and modern mall but with few stores.  Those open stores had little stock to choose from.  We were only there for about 45 minutes before leaving back to the ship.  Some folks did report trouble with using credit cards.  We didn't try to purchase anything. 

Joe and Pat Rawson went on the 2 hr excursion and reported it was a disappointment.  Pat only got out of the bus at one of the three stops.  The first stop was at a museum and old fort. The other two stops were at a small church and monument.  Other than that it was pretty much a bus ride around town.  One thing to note as the group of several small bus made their way around town, they were escorted by police cars in front and behind the group.  When we went to the mall we had several guides with us inside and outside the mall.  It was a bit disconcerting with the increased security for us.  

As I write this update we have left Luanda about 3 hours ago and now have our StarLink Internet back which was out again all-day today while in port.  

    

Days 117, 118 - CRUISING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

 Date: 5/02/2024   Day 118   Sea Day: CRUISING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

Description: The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest of the world's five oceans, with an area of about 85,133,000 km2 (32,870,000 sq mi). It covers approximately 17% of Earth's surface and about 24% of its water surface area. During the Age of Discovery, it was known for separating the Old World of Africa, Europe, and Asia from the New World of the Americas.

Morning Update:  Last night we were advised to remain indoors, all open decks were off-limits.  The ship went blacked-out from 6 PM to 6 AM with all outdoor lights off and all window shades pulled down.  They never gave us a reason why, but I can only assume it was for security reasons.  

This morning it's a beautiful day with nearly totally calm seas.  We moved our clocks back another hour last setting us to time zone GMT+1.  With the added hour of sleep for some I was up at 5:30 AM and out on deck at 6 AM for a nice 3 mile morning walk.  It was a truly beautiful morning watching the sunrise.  

Evening Update:  In the captain's noon address he reported that the ship is going to black-out again tonight.  No one will be allowed outside on deck's 6 and 12.  Most all the normal outside lighting will be turned off.  Again, I can only assume that this is for security reasons.  The ship's AIS (AIS tracking technology provides information about the identification, course, speed and current location of vessels. ) is not showing our destination but rather "ARMED SECURITY ONBOARD".  A six member security team boarded us in Cape Town.  It's not clear now long they will remain onboard.  

Note: The ship's AIS only shows Armed Security
 On-Board rather than the true destination.

Day 116 of 148 - WALVIS BAY, NAMIBIA (Day 2)

 Date: 4/30/2024  Day 116  Port Day: WALVIS BAY, NAMIBIA (Day 2)

Description: Unspoiled Walvis Bay, a natural lagoon and the only deep-sea harbor on the Namibian coast, offers something for everyone, with spectacular bird-watching being a keynote, as thousands of migrating species make their way here annually to join the local flamingoes and pelicans. “Dune 7,” at the outskirts of town, towers over the scenic bay, and offers excellent photo ops. The city is also a good starting point for a number of exciting day trips into the timeless beauty of the desert region, including off-road explorations, or fly-over dolphin and whale sighting.

Planned Excursion: PELICAN POINT BIRDING

 4.0 Hours           Moderate Activity            # LRN-010:

Free Catalogue sightings of numerous waders and shore birds at the nutrient-rich Walvis Bay Lagoon.  See a plethora of avian species, such as sandpipers, plovers, herons and pelicans.  Visit the Walvis Bay Salt mine to look for phalaropes, grebes and terns.  Spy osprey and African black oystercatchers at Pelican Point, home to a Cape fur seal colony.  Keep watch at the Kuiseb River delta for an Orange River white-eye and a dune or sabota lark.

Today's Notes: We have really enjoyed our time here in Namibia.  Walvis Bay is a very clean and safe city with a very low crime rate.  On our first day here we spent the afternoon at the Dunes Mall doing some essential shopping.  Very clean and modern mall with a wide variety of stores and very helpful sales people. 

On our second day here in Walvis Bay we went on a birding excursion.  We rode in a 4x4 Toyota modified Land Rover.  We traveled far out into the low flats of the lagoon observing many birds as described above and thousands of fur seals.  The highlight of the trip was going high up on the Dunes for a spectacular view overlooking the salt mining and Lagoon.  On our way down from the Dune we drove over and down a very steep cliff to the bottom of the dune.   

Pictures

Click Here --> PELICAN POINT BIRDING PICTURES

Videos

Click Here --> PELICAN POINT BIRDING part 1

Click Here --> PELICAN POINT BIRDING part 2

Click Here --> PELICAN POINT BIRDING part 3

Click Here --> PELICAN POINT BIRDING part 4

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