Happy New Year

A very belated Happy and Year! Thank you for all your New Year greetings - I’m afraid I’ve just not been able to cope with blipping over the last few days - a combination of technology and time (cruises are surprisingly demanding!) - so it’s now we’re back on dry land it’s time to catch up! 

What an amazing way to celebrate the start of 2023! 
For me, there’s usually a touch of regret at the ending of a year, but last night there was little time for any sense of sadness. 

Despite the high winds stopping us from visiting Picton, it’s generally been fairly smooth - or at least we’re getting used to the (mostly) gentle rolling of the ship! 
I know for many, the idea of spending NYE aboard a cruise ship would be something of a nightmare, but this is a smallish ship with low-key entertainment, the focus being on good food and wine. 

And so an excellent illusionist show is followed by a superb five course meal (Dover Sole for me, boned at the table by the waiter) accompanied by copious and varied wine. Eventually, we all end up on deck where massive efforts have been made to get this area ready for our party. The swimming pool is empty - largely to stop the water splashing onto the deck rather than preventing midnight dips! - and there’s music, dancing and copious champagne. It’s certainly not a balmy summer might, but there are blankets and much of the area under cover is heated. And basically the best way to keep warm is just  to get up and dance - though I do change from a short black dress to full length for a little extra warmth! We see in 2023 in style with countdowns, Auld Lang Syne, Congas and plenty of hugs and kisses - mask wearing long-forgotten. Oh and just in case anyone is still hungry, there’s a ‘Death by Chocolate’ buffet …..

The weather gods have been kind to us, but before too long, the rain starts and the party moves inside. We, however, have danced enough, and decide it’s time to retire gracefully before things get really messy! 

And so to come to the first day of 2023. All a little fragile, it’s a late start and a delicious brunch on deck with a great variety of food on offer. A relatively quiet day - at sea as scheduled.