At Sea: Yes, the day has finally arrived and Dave turned 70 in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Though our Captain had warned us the sea would be rough overnight, but it wasn't too bad overnight. The seas were a bit rougher as we continued west toward the Atlantic Ocean. There is really a lot of ship traffic at this point - so many cargo ships heading in/out of the small opening between the two seas. And, because this is an area also filled with Orcas chasing Bluefin Tuna, all ships are required to sail at a very low speed. A screen shot from the "Current Ship Location" yesterday afternoon:
We did sail past the famed Rock of Gibraltar (and will visit it in a few days). Shots looking east, and west:
The Birthday Boy had a good day. He was able to ride the exercise bike for an hour, so he was happy. Lunch in the buffet - they had a lamb gyro bar thing happening. We spent quite a bit of time this afternoon in the Explora Lounge (Deck 11, Forward) to get good views to the shore, and to keep a constant watch for Orcas with binoculars (a pair of binoculars are provided to each cabin). None spotted. I stitched. After the Explora II reached the Atlantic, our Captain took a left and pointed us to Casablanca.
The Birthday Party (two guests) began with a champagne toast:
The Asian-fusion restaurant, Sakura, was DT's choice (of course) for his birthday dinner. The crew did, indeed, bring us each a lumpia (Filipino version of a fried egg roll), and our meals were just lovely. We had sushi, and several other small plates, including Duck Confit (but spiced as Peking Duck). Too dark for photos, but the Pavlova with passion fruit and a teeny scoop of mango sorbet dessert was bright!
This restaurant has an open kitchen, so Dave had a great view of all the action.
When we arrived back to our cabin, the crew had placed towel animals and a towel cake on the bed - and a nice HAPPY BIRTHDAY banner over the bed.
It wasn't a very exciting day, but since he is getting a 20-night cruise for his birthday, it may be forgiven?
Tomorrow we dock in Casablanca, Morocco for two nights.
Until my next update, I remain, your "anyone need a towel?" correspondent.
LINKS:
Explora II
Current Ship Location