Day 29 - At Sea

Day 29 – Friday 7^th February 2014 – At Sea

Enjoyed a lie-in this morning, while at 10.00 took up another challenge.

Ballroom

Line Dancing; now this is an eye opener, our choir leader also takes this class and at first could not really believe what I was doing. All it is, remembering a lot of steps which seem complicated, in the correct order.  Whether I can be bothered to take this class seriously is another matter, but I certainly enjoy the country and western music.

This was closely followed by a real dance lesson of the cha-cha-cha, much more to my liking.

In the afternoon back into my gym and sauna routine, while Colin got into his routine of going to the pictures and sleeping.

The evening in the Café Carinthia was quiet while the new guests got settled into their first day at sea.  It was a formal night, and all dressed up for the evening.  Dinner this time was salad/beef/Jamaica cake

Theatre entertainment was given by two young English ladies each playing violins. 

In the Golden Lion for night caps and the trivia quiz, came second this time.

So ended a quiet day at sea; lovely.

Day 28 - San Francisco

Day 28 – Thursday 6^th February 2914 – San Francisco

The weather is damp with drizzle in the air and overcast, not the best to go sightseeing.

After breakfast on board in the Lido, we venture ashore for the day at 11.00 and go along to Pier 39.

Sea Lion Colony

Here there a colony of sea lions lying and playing about on the pontoons.

There are signs around stating do not feed sea lions, by the size of them obviously they do not need to.  They were a noisy lot as they knocked or fondled each other, showing great agility as they sprang onto the pontoons.  They were not bothered by the boats passing by or the many visitors taking photographs.

Sea Lions

A walk along to Fisherman’s wharf with our umbrellas hoisted, we made for Starbucks to try and get to access the internet, another hopeless case of too slow a signal.  The barman in Jack’s directed us to the hotel nearby, ‘Argonauts’. Here we met, one of the passengers who had left the ship this morning, and was staying in the hotel before going back to the UK in a few days’ time.

He acquired the necessary password for us to access wi-fi, and we were happy drinking the free hot chocolate, while spending a long time, sending emails and updating the blog site.

Jack's Bar

Onwards, into Jack’s Bar, where there are 40 different draught beers.  We thanked the barman who incidentally came for Tenby in Wales, then walked back to the ship, as it had now stopped raining.

A final walk to pier 39 and the observation point at the end.

A final photo, of Alcatraz, in the evening gloom, along with Queen Elizabeth prior to sailing.

Today has been a big day for the ship with the ending of the second voyage section of this cruise.  Half of the crew are changing, including the Captain, 700 passengers are disembarking to be replaced with another 700. The ship will again be full for the next voyage.

We say goodbye to Evelyn, returning to Toronto, Canada.  Moira, back to South Africa; Margaret, returns to Shropshire in the UK.  Our fellow guests at the dining table return to the UK and the many other friends, we have both made over the past weeks.  The passenger’s average age over the past four weeks, has been 65 and above, let’s hope the new ones are as good as the first.

It is also the start of the new section of our voyage, and we have been exalted into gold standard which means we get a few more of the perks.

Into the Café Carinthia for G&T’s before dinner and we sit down to our meal as the ship is leaving the berth.  On our table, we now have Edwina who requested to join us after her friend Margaret has left.  Gillian and Stewart, who are from the UK, and William from New York.

In the theatre, we watch some of the acts who will be entertaining us on our way to Sydney.

Another eventful day; it is also good for me to be back at sea.

 

Day 27 - San Francisco

Day 27 – Wednesday 5^th February 2014 – San Francisco

At 06.30, the vessel arrived at pier 35, San Francisco.  We were awake at 07.00 and went to the Britannia Restaurant for an egg benedict breakfast at 08.00.

All passengers once more had to go through US Immigration; each deck level had been given a time when to present themselves at the tables, where the process would take place on Deck 3 of the Restaurant.  Each passenger deck level was allotted thirty minutes for the process.

We arrived at our allotted time of 08.45 only to find the queue commenced at the aft end restaurant to the theatre at the front end, the full length of the ship.  Enquiring who was in the queue, it emerged very few had taken any notice of the allotted time.  There was no provision for the old and infirm, I decided to return to the cabin and return later, it was a fiasco.

Returning to the queue at 10.00, we eventually passed through by a friendly US official (sic) at 10.30, I then preceded to the gangway on Deck 2 to go ashore, but was confronted by another queue and informed, no one could go ashore until everyone had gone through Immigration.  To calm down, I went onto the open Deck 3 and reclined in one of the loungers under a lifeboat, and had a kip.

Alcatraz Island

At 11.30 we were ashore and turned right and walked along for five minutes to Pier 39, there are lots of restaurants, cafes, and shops, at the end there is a fine view over the bay to Alcatraz, the famous prison where Al Capone spent a little time at his government’s pleasure.  The island is not too far away (1 ¼ mile) and I was surprise how close it is to the shore, I believe only one prisoner escaped and managed to swim ashore, seemingly the bay is notorious for the cold water and strong currents which run through it.

Golden Gate Bridge

From Pier 39 the view to the left is of the Golden Gate Bridge which we had passed under at five in the morning, needless to say, missed that one.

The bridge colour is red, seemingly when it was built, and the steel work was primed with red lead paint, the locals liked the colour and wanted it to stay that way.  The original plan was for the last coat of paint to be grey.  This may account for a lot of the grey buildings in San Francisco.

Jeremiah O'Brien

 From the same vantage point is an old preserved Liberty Ship ‘Jeremiah O’ Brien’ built in 1943 which served in the Atlantic and Pacific theatres in the world war two.  She is berthed at Pier 45, Fisherman’s Wharf, a short walk from Pier 39.

  This ship was on my bucket list to visit.  The ‘Jeremiah O’Brien’ has a link with another vessel in the UK called the ‘Shieldhall’, based in Southampton, of which I am a member.  The link being, they are the only sea going steam ships still operating in the world, powered by steam reciprocating engines.  Both ships are run on a volunteer basis, and when time allows, I assist in maintaining and running the ‘Shieldhall’.

View over to Cruise  Ships

'Jeremiah O’Brien is open to the public for a small fee, I was aboard and found the Chief Engineer, Bruce Reilly, an  Australian who gave me a wonderful tour of the engine room.

Chief Engineer,  Bruce Reilly at the controls

Happy Alex, wearing Bruce's Engine Driver's Hat

  For me, it was absolutely fascinating, the general lay out, the open triple expansion main engine, the boilers, generators, and pumps. Although, the Foster Wheeler boilers were not in steam, with one opened up for inspection, it was great to be on board and have such a genuine, knowledgeable, Marine Engineer to show me around. We have both promised to keep in touch.

Fisherman’s Wharf is another attraction with its fishing boats alongside their berths with the mainly sea food restaurants and cafes nearby.  We walked along passed The Cannery to the cable car terminus near to the Aquatic Park.  We purchased a $15 day pass to be able to travel on the many different modes of transport. 

Cable  Car

After queuing for a while they loaded up the cable cars, we were off, on this exhilarating ride on the Powell-Hyde cable car line.  It is an amazing trip, as we careered along sat next to the brake man.  How these cars work is fascinating and every time we start off, the brake man dings the bell.  Passengers alight and get on at the flat bits in the middle of the road, sometimes at busy junctions, as you ride up and down the many hills.  If not seats available, passengers hang onto the sides, stood on a short walkway.

Market Street

We passed the cable car museum on our way to the end of the line at Powell Street station which is situated on the Market Street, the main thoroughfare which goes diagonally across San Francisco.

For a main street, I was amazed at the lack of private cars on the road and I believe this is due to the public transport system being that good.

It was time to do a little shopping and a short walk brought us to Macey’s, the biggest department store in the city.  Situated on two blocks, one for women, while the other for men.

Union Square

Macey’s overlooks Union Square, the main central area and from here, it is a short walk into Chinatown. 

Chinatown

This was all hustle and bustles within its narrow streets of exotic shops and restaurants.  We ended up on the street where they have an open markets, this was very busy with people in and out of the colourful fruit and veg. shops.

Lombard Street

We jumped onto a trolley bus to take us to Lombard Street.

This is another visitors attraction where at the top of a steep hill, there is a one way street where the cars wind their way down in between the flower beds, while pedestrians can go up and down on one side.  It must be even more beautiful when the flowers are in bloom.

Grateful for a walk now down the hill, we found Jack’s Bar at Fisherman’s Wharf, where we relaxed before boarding a street car to take us back to the ship.

After a shower and change we were ashore again, this time in the company of two lady passengers, Edwina and Margaret, back to Chinatown for a meal in one of the restaurants.

It was a bit disappointed in the meal, too much for the tourists, but the wine was great. It was raining as we left there, and a short walk to the Hilton Hotel, to finish off with more wine in fine surroundings.  Back on board for midnight and it had been a fascinating day out in this wonderful city.

Looking forward to tomorrow; as we have another day ashore.  

Day 26 - At Sea

Day 26 – Tuesday 4^th February 2014 – At Sea

This morning we are off California approximately 50 miles west of Los Angeles, and it is cold with a strong wind and only 13 degrees C on deck, so not much point in walking the decks.

Breakfast with Colin in the Lido, then wandered the ship, watched a film about French art décor in the theatre for a while, not quite my style,but it filled in time.  In the ballroom there was a talent contest going on between the passengers, a Japanese singer, not karaoke,but a traditional Japanese song was a bit strange with extravagant arm and body movements.  An American trying to recite poetry who kept forgetting the words until prompted by reading his notes, the audience were very attentive, and he got through it.  A mother on guitar with her boy on the violin made an effort but I had expected a little more talent, so we left and went up for lunch with the Chinese lady Evelyn, in the Lido.

Britannia Restaurant

The Britannia Restaurant, showing the entrance, as seen from the Captain’s chair at his table.  The restaurant is magnificent and it situated at the rear of the ship covering Decks 2 and 3.  It can sit 878 guests on the two levels, open seating breakfast and lunch, two sittings for dinner 18.00 and 20.30.

Britannia Restaurant

This is taken from the staircase showing the two levels around the entrance.

The restaurant’s view over the rear tables.

  A view aft, from our table

Table 379

Our table number 379 for six guests is situated at the rear on the starboard side with a view out of the full length window.

From the start of the voyage, we have seen several guests join us at our table and have moved on.  We do not mind, if they cannot understand our language or humour, but we are enjoying it.  For the past two weeks, the following couples have stayed with us and have been great company.  Arlene and Tom from Gloucestershire, along with Sadie and Tony from Yorkshire.

The dinner menu normally consists of a choice of six starters, six main courses and six desserts with additional choices of salads or today specials.

The food and service have been excellent, there are two waiters allocated to our table within this area, and of course, our wine waiter who has got to know myself and Colin very well, has a very good idea of our wine choices and keeps us on the straight and narrow.

It is early into the theatre tonight at 19.00 to see the show with Jennifer Fair, the very good singer and the American comedian John Joseph.  I managed to stay awake this time, and the show ended with Mark Donaghue who plays everything.

We still had time to go to Café Carinthia for few drinks before dinner at 20.30, consisting of soup/beef/lemon cheese cake.

Finished off in the ballroom and tried the waltz, with my dance lesson partner, we managed to get round without bumping into anybody.

A big day tomorrow, as we are arriving in San Francisco. 

Day 25 - At Sea

Day 25 – Monday 3^rd February 2014 – At Sea

After yesterday’s excesses, really got stuck into the gym work and spent a long time in the sauna.

Up on the games deck carried on with the bowls and Evelyn has started to master this one, and have to admit I was beaten by the Chinese lady. We are heading north, and it is becoming cold and when the heavy rain showers began, time to retire to the Lido for a warming drink.

Commodore Club

The afternoon was spent working on the blog site and keeping warm.  A wonderful place on board at this time is the Commodore Club with its wonderful view over the front of the ship on Deck 10.  It's warm, friendly staff and elegant furnishings giving you a feeling of being surrounded by grandeur, a place for quiet reflection and good conversation.

Ship's Model

This excellent ship’s model of ‘Queen Elizabeth’ guards the entrance to the ‘Commodore Club’.

Today’s cocktail in the Café Carinthia is Sundowners, all very nice.  Asking around the bar staff, we have come to the conclusion, there is a lot of cabin drinking going on.  Liquor can be bought on board at a reduced rate, in the so called duty free shop, but it is still expensive.  We also think the cabin drinkers are those with balconies, we do not have that luxury but we do have an ocean view though this is slightly restricted by the No.14 lifeboat.  We certainly prefer the bars and believe in giving all the staff a chance to meet and have a laugh with us.

Dinner was snails/lobster/baked Alaska and very good.  Missed out on the theatre and went to the ballroom to watch a strictly come dancing competition, before retiring to bed.

Day 24 - At Sea

Day 24 – Sunday 2^nd February 2014 – At Sea

After the morning routines, today is going to be something special.

We are off Mexico at the southern end of Bahia California.

Cape San Lucas

This is Cape San Lucas and famous for whale watching as this is where the whales give birth to their young and nurse them for about six months before heading back up north to feed on the Crile.  There were lots of other small boats around out looking for marine life and the Captain took the ship in close on our 95,000 ton boat.  I saw three water spouts and one whales’ tail.

During this time upon deck 11, we were playing bowls while whale watching and we were joined by Moira, a South African Lady for croquet.  Moira actually knew the rules, as she played the game at home.  It makes a big difference when you are playing a game and shown your mistakes, and it is more fun.

Theatre

Theatre

At lunch time we have our last choir practice in the yacht club.  Today is our big day after the practice everyone is off to get showered and put on the choir rig of the day, black and white.

We all assembled on stage, half an hour before our performance at 14.00 all arranged in our positions there are around eighty people in the choir.  The curtains were drawn and we waited in anticipation and silence, behind the curtain, as one of the technicians went through the final countdown.

Stage

The Royal Court Theatre can seat just over 800 people and we had no idea how many would turn up.  In front of the curtain our choir leader Leah was introduced to the audience by Joanne the Entertainments Director, then Robin our Aussie pianist. When we were introduced, the curtains opened, and wow, in the theatre there must have been 500 people in the audience.

Choir on Stage

We commenced with the song ‘Summertime’, followed by ‘You Raise Me Up’ by now, we were over the nerves and got into ‘Delilah’; ‘I Am Sailing’, the musical song ‘My Favourite Things’.  On the stage, we had got it all together and the hairs standing up when we sang ‘Let It Be’.  The audience were joining in with ‘It’s a Long Way to Tipperary’ combined with ‘Pack up your Troubles’.  For the finish, it was Abba’s ‘Thank You for the Music’ sang unaccompanied, we could see Leah, choking up as the tears flowed and we came to the finish, the choir very, very happy. 

The audience reaction was amazing, they all stood up and gave us a standing ovation, and we were all flabbergasted.   We bowed and thank them, all of us with the biggest smiles on our faces. It was a wonderful feeling to be part of it.  The audience cheered for more, but we had not rehearsed an encore song.  So, we sang once again ‘You Raise Me Up’; our emotional  Leah, the tears were now in full flow, and we managed to keep it all together for the finish.  Amongst the choir, lots of handshakes and hugs for what we had been part of, and what we had achieved.

Grand Lobby

We were taken along to the grand lobby to have our photographs taken and while this was going on we started an impromptu ‘It’s a Long Way to Tipperary’.  The other passengers in the area and who had not been in the theatre had no idea what was going on but joined in the fun.

Choir over and it was off to the Golden Lion for a celebration pint.  Today is also a big sporting day for our American cousins.  Namely, Super Bowl, the American football cup final being played in New York.  I came back to the pub after getting changed for the kick off at 16.30.  Sitting with an American couple who helped me with some of the technicalities of the game and with Robin the Aussie piano player, we spent the next four hours there.  The game was too one side as the Seattle Seahawks trounced the Denver Broncos.

Just managed to make it in time for dinner in the Britannia Restaurant at 20.30 but cannot remember what I had to eat, it would have been nice.

Along to the theatre to watch an American comedian but the day had been too much for me and I fell asleep and missed most of the show.

Needless to say, I went off to bed very happy after a wonderful day.

Day 23 - At Sea

Day 23 – Saturday 1^st February 2014 – At Sea

A very good work out in the gym between eight and nine seems to be the best time to be there, as not so many people.  The turtles and flying fish are still passing by the sauna window.

On deck 11 with the Chinese lady, Evelyn and trying to give lessons on bowls, croquet and now putting golf balls, it is impossible to take any of this seriously but it merrily passes the time away in the sunshine.

Dance lesson is the Tango and been here before, our teachers from the Ukraine are amazingly agile, and there is no way any of us oldies have a chance and can only dream of getting anywhere near their standards.

On each passenger deck there is a laundrette and off I go to do some ironing.  On entering asked, these three American ladies, if the iron and board was freed.  They replied in their droll, “you are going to iron”, I sure am.  I presented to them for inspection, my shirts when I had finished, they said nothing but I think there was a nod of approval.

It is still warm and spent the rest of the afternoon on one of the sun loungers on the aft end of Deck 9.  Reading and enjoying the sun, while you are there, waiters are wandering around asking if you would like a drink.  It is too tempting,and I have to refuse, as I would never get through the night sessions.

It is an informal night and before dinner, this time into the Golden Lion, it has been a while since we tried the Speckled Hen. There is another trivia quiz going on, and we were joined by a lady from Barbados, Elsa but we did not win.  Dinner was prawns/sea bass/ice cream and very nice.

In the theatre, it was a combination of the theatre and ballroom orchestras, with the strings of the quartet, who normally play in the restaurant and grand lobby.  The sound was great with the four main stage singers; it turned out to be another wonderful show.

We finished off with our night caps in the Commodore club and met a couple from Sunderland.  The conversation drifted onto the local derby football match, being played the next day and may the best team win.