Saga Pearl II Captain's blog

Considered by many as the prettiest of the Canary Islands, today our cruise saw us visiting Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, an almost circular isle that has the peak of Pozo de Las Nieves, its highest point, at the centre. With the attraction of exciting city life in the capital along with buildings and a history that dates back to the 15th century, there really was plenty to see and do during our time here, and as with so many of the islands in this area, the subtropical climate meant that something as simple as sightseeing was a treat in itself, providing a chance to appreciate the islands lush green vegetation and exotic palms and fruits.

The first tour off today gave our passengers the opportunity to really get a feel for the history of the island. The ‘Essence of Gran Canaria’ started by visiting the Bandama crater, an extinct volcano which rises nearly 1,900 feet above sea level. Having taken in the wonderful island views, they went on to Teror, a charming, quaint little town whitewashed houses with red tiled roofs and ornate carved balconies. Having strolled through the cobblestone streets it was time for refreshments at La Hacienda del Buen Sucesco, the oldest ranch in the Canary Islands that dates back to 1572, and is now a hotel set amongst a set of banana plantations.

However, perhaps the most talked about tour of the day was the afternoon departure. The ‘Sand Dune Camel Safari’ let our passengers ride camels through the sand dunes and gave them the chance to see the sights in a different way and from a very different perspective. With two passengers riding each camel, while strapped into basket seats, it has been the talk of the vessel since their return amongst all those who were lucky enough to go, and amongst many of those who wish that they had done. With plenty of stories to tell and pictures to show, the tours today really did us proud and were a treat for all our passengers, and of course special praise must go to our tours department, without whom, none of it would have been possible.

The evening’s entertainment started with a special food quiz hosted by one of our cruise staff Resty and this was followed by Cabaret Showtime were we joined international comedian Gerry Graham for a night of laughter. The evening did not end there for those guests who wanted to stay up late we invited everyone for a sail away disco out on our open decks.

Our first stop in the Canary Islands saw us visit the charming island of La Palma. La Palma is also known as ‘La Isla Bonita’ (the beautiful island), La Palma is typified by lush forests of pine, laurel and fern which contrast with the rugged splendour of the gigantic Taburiente crater. The Island is dotted with attractive villages, which are a delight to discover, and the capital Santa Cruz also made for an interesting day of exploration for our passengers.

We docked in Santa Cruz, La Palma at 11.00am and the first tour excursion off this morning was ‘La Palma Panoramic’. The passengers got to take in the highlights of La Palma on a scenic drive around the island, beginning in the capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma. Continuing to Mirador de la Concepcion before arriving at Taburiente Crater, the largest erosion volcano in the world, where our passengers received the opportunity to stop and take photographs. From here, our guests took a journey through the western area to experience wonderful views of Los Llandos de Aridane, a large town surrounded by cacti and banana plantations.

The second and final tour of the day was ‘The Forest Walk’, walking through Los Tilos Forest, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve home to a profusion of ferns, trees and other indigenous species. The tour begins with a short panoramic drive up into the hills to Mirador de la Conception, a spectacular vantage point with views over the city. From here the passengers had a 50 minute drive to Los Tilos, which literally translated means ‘laurel forest’. Finally our guests set out on a one mile walk through the wonderful forest of ancient laurels, lime trees and giant ferns.

Following a straight forward departure at 8pm the evening’s entertainment started with a general knowledge quiz hosted by one of our cruise staff Rebecca, this was then followed by yet another sumptuous dinner. After dinner we invited our passengers into the Discovery Lounge for Cabaret Showtime featuring international recording artiste Stuart Gillies.

Following a relaxing three days at sea as we ventured south our first port of call on our ‘Colours of the Canary Islands’ cruise saw us visit the beautiful island of Madeira, and its capital Funchal. Discovered by Portuguese explorer Joao Goncalves Zarco in 1419, it was originally formed by a volcanic eruption and became part of Portugal’s vast empire. Sugar plantations first bought wealth here and many British emigrants were drawn to the capital after King Charles II of England granted it an exclusive franchise to sell wine to England and its colonies.

Our pilot was on hand to board the Saga Pearl II shortly before 7am, opting to join us close to the breakwater that will double us our berth. I opted to swing the ship and back down onto the quay thus leaving a straight forward departure manoeuvre for later this evening.

The first tour to depart this morning presented our passengers with the chance to experience something a little bit different. The ‘Levada Walk’ excursion presented the opportunity to follow a ‘Levada’ trail, the irrigation channels that were created by Portuguese settlers in the 19th century. All painstakingly carved out of the rock by hand, it was these channels that carried fresh water from the north to the drier southern regions of the island. This helped to create its lush landscapes and the guided walk allowed our passengers the opportunity to enjoy mountain views of the green farmland that covers Madeira.

Slightly less strenuous was the second tour, the ‘Leisurely Madeira’ coach trip was exactly that, a leisurely way for our passengers to enjoy some of the islands finest sights. Travelling from Funchal, through the popular suburb of Sao Martinho, to Pico dos Barcelos and then on to the winding scenic roads to Eira do Serrado, our passengers were able to relax and enjoy the views of Madeira’s highest peaks. Carrying on their trip they took in some wonderful landmarks, including Madeira’s largest statue, a beautiful baroque church, a tropical garden and the islands famous toboggan run, all situated in the picturesque village of Monte.

The final tour off also took our passengers to Monte but this time, along with enjoying all of its famous landmarks they were able to enjoy the botanical gardens, home to a variety of plants and flowers from all over the world which thrive in the temperate climate. As if this wasn’t enough, fabulous views looking over the coast and across the ocean made sure that they enjoyed a trip to remember, although as the tour finished with a visit to a wine lodge for a tasting of some of the island’s famous wines, perhaps one or two memories ended up a little hazy.  

I gave the order to cast off our lines shortly before 5pm as we continue our journey south towards the Canary Islands and our first port of call there, Santa Cruz La Palma.

Set on seven hills on the banks of the River Tagus, Lisbon has been capital of Portugal since the 13th century. It is a city famous for its majestic architecture, old wooden trams, moorish features and more than twenty centuries of history. The city is split between modern districts and ancient sections, combing great shopping with culture and sightseeing in the old town, built on the city’s terraced hillsides.

As forecast on our trip north, we did encounter a certain amount of ‘motion of the ocean’. Nevertheless the Saga Pearl II was able to make her ETA into the River Tagus and as we approached we were greeted with a glorious day.

Our pilot joined me on the bridge shortly before the famous 25th April Bridge, most reminiscent of San Francisco’s Golden Gate. The River Tagus was in full ebb as we gingerly approached our berth at the new passenger terminal, right in the heart of the city. I lined the ship up parallel to the berth and allowed the current and gentle breeze to do the hard work. As soon as our moorings were made fast our gangway was duly landed. 

There was only one tour to depart today and this was the ‘Lisbon Panoramic’ at 2:15pm. The passengers enjoyed an informative commentary whilst having a relaxing drive through Lisbon and its environs, stopping to take photographs at famous landmarks and places of interest. They then enjoyed refreshments at Pasteis de Belem and afterwards they continued the tour to see some more notable sights, stopping at the top of Eduardo VII Park to take in the panoramic view of the whole city.

On departure tonight, our Staff Captain, Andy Boyd, completed the manoeuvre in his usual professional manner and led the ship out into the Atlantic once more as we set sail towards our home port of Southampton.

 This evening’s entertainment, ‘Call My Bluff’, was a night of laughter hosted by our assistant cruise director, Mike, our cruise director, John, our shore excursions manager, Jacquie and myself as guest panellists.

The original settlement formed on the site of Casablanca by the Berbers became the kingdom of Anfa, and during the 15th century harboured pirates who raided the Portuguese coast. In retaliation for the attacks, the Portuguese destroyed Anfa and founded the town they called Casa Cranca (white house). They remained here until an earthquake in 1755 and the town was subsequently rebuilt by Mohammed Ben Abdallah. Casablanca acquired its present day name when the Spanish obtained special port privileges in 1781. The French landed here in 1907, later establishing a protectorate and modelling the town on the port of Marseilles. Today Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city, its most significant port and the centre of commerce and industry.

The approach to Casablanca harbour is an interesting one in that a large swell often develops close to the harbour entrance. In order to counteract this, and ensure no orange juice was spilled at breakfast, I kept the speed up as we passed through the breakwaters into the inner harbour and ensured the stabilisers were left out until the very last moment. This proved to work well and very shortly after the Saga Pearl II was made fast safely on her berth.

Today there were 3 tours to choose from the first one being the ‘Casablanca and Hassan ll Mosque’ which departed at 8:15am. The first destination on this tour was the Habbous quarter and the Royal Palace where our Guests could view the Mhakama du Pasha Law courts and the Cathedral Notre Dame. They then took the coastal road to the Hassan ll Mosque, after admiring its interior they continued along the Corniche to see the sweeping views of the Atlantic. The tour was completed with a welcome stop at a hotel for refreshments and having some free time in the city centre for some shopping and independent exploration.

The second tour that departed at 8:30am was the ‘Rabat Revealed’ excursion. Before heading out of Casablanca our Passengers paused for a photo stop at the Hassan ll Mosque, and then proceeded to Morocco’s administrative capital, Rabat. The first stop was at the Royal Palace esplanade to admire the beautiful gardens and exquisite mosaics. They then learnt a little more about the city’s history as they visited the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum, finishing the tour with a traditional Moroccan lunch and a leisurely drive back to Casablanca.

Sadly our good run with the weather conditions had come to an abrupt end and from studying the weather reports it appeared as if our run north to Lisbon may be a touch ‘lumpy’ Nevertheless all onboard were well prepared and following a last minute adjustment to this evening’s entertainment our Guests were able to enjoy a special screening of the popular movie ‘The King’s Speech’ complimented of course by popcorn served up by our Cruise Staff.

The autonomous city of Ceuta is a tiny Spanish city and exclave on the Moroccan side of the straits of Gibraltar, separated from the Spanish mainland by just 12 miles. The city’s strategic location has ensured it has endured a turbulent history, often being used as a trade and military outpost. Originally an old Carthaginian colony, it has since been held by the Romans, Vandals, Byzantines and Arabs, and has been known as ‘Abyla’. ‘Septem’ and ‘Cibta’. It was finally taken over by Spain in 1580 and has remained Spanish since then, who have given it its current name, ‘Ceuta’.

Following a straight forward berthing, yet again in glorious sunshine, our first tour departed at 9am. This was the all day tour to ‘Tetuoan, Jewel of the Rif’ This excursion took Passengers across the border into Morocco to explore Tetuoan. Once there our Guests enjoyed a panoramic drive around the city where the guide gave them information regarding the city’s history and main attractions. Our Guests were then able to partake in some light refreshments before embarking on a walking tour through the Jewish quarter of El Melal and the Bereber Zoco. A delectable lunch followed at a local restaurant where they tried delicious Moroccan specialities and watched an exotic Arabian show.

The second and final tour to depart was the ‘Sights of Ceuta’ This tour was a panoramic drive through the city passing its main harbour, fishing port and the industrial areas. Continuing on to see the Plaza de Africa, the Cathedral of Ceuta and then finishing the tour off with a leisurely stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens.

As always there was a host of activities available for those wishing to remain onboard and indeed a complimentary shuttle bus into the heart of Ceuta for those wishing to explore independently.

Tonight’s quiz was hosted by Resty at 9pm and had a special food and drink theme, continuing the entertainment our Cabaret Showtime featured ‘Mysteries of the Mind’, with Chris James.

Cartagena is a Mediterranean city and naval station located in the Region of Murcia, southern Spain. The city was once a flourishing port, exporting gold and silver mined in the surrounding region. Cartagena is encircled by mountains and is an important Spanish naval base. Its ancient defences are still very evident; they include forts and other military and naval installations. The city also contains remains of old walls, a castle constructed in Carthaginian times, and a church that was formerly a 13th-century cathedral.

The first tour to depart following our arrival was a ‘Tale of Two Cities’ Our Passengers left the port of Cartagena heading to the charming provincial capital of Murcia, stopping to make a visit to La Fuensanta, a pilgrimage centre that takes its name from a nearby spring. They took in the panoramic views of Murcia then continued on to the heart of Murcia’s old city after visiting the Church and Cathedral they returned to Cartagena to take a panoramic walking tour of the city, strolling past the monument to Spanish sailors, the Town Hall and along the pedestrian main street to admire the many views.

The second and final tour to depart this morning was entitled ‘Complete Cartagena’ This tour commenced with a visit to Decumano, the former main street, with its large paving slabs and traces of public baths and shop. Our Guests then continued with a walking tour through the city to the Centre of Cartagena learning the history of the Tower of Homage, part of the Castillo de la Concepcion at the city’s highest point. They stepped out onto the roof terrace for a spectacular panorama of the city and its suburb harbour. The tour was completed with some free time to enjoy a coffee or a stroll around the shops before heading back to the ship.

Following our departure at 4pm, the evening’s entertainment started in style with a classical recital from the Landolfi String Quartet. James was on hand to host this evening quiz just before 9pm and for Cabaret Showtime this evening our Guests were entertained by the wonderful vocal harmony duo Eden.

Following a relaxing day at sea transiting the North African coast, we made our way to the port of Algiers. The capital, and largest city, of Algeria is also known as ‘Algiers the White’ for its gleaming white buildings. Its name is derived from the Arabic word meaning ‘the island’, taken from the four islands which became part of the mainland in 1525. Algeria became a French colony in 1830 and remained so until 1962 following a bitter struggle for independence.

The weather for our arrival was, yet again, perfect. Almost clear blue skies, a gentle breeze and temperatures up in the high 60s. This meant those passengers not wishing to proceed ashore on tour had wonderful conditions to relax in.

The first tour ‘World War II Remembered’ departed at 8:45am. This fascinating tour begins with a visit to the Dely Ibrahim cemetery. The passengers had free time to explore here. They then drove towards the city centre passing the Descartes High School used by General de Gaulle as headquarters. After a short a walk to the St George Hotel, our guests enjoyed refreshments before finishing the tour with a visit to the conference hall.

The second tour departed at 9am and was the ‘Algiers City Tour’. The tour commenced with a drive into the city centre and headed for Victory Park and the extraordinary Martyrs’ Monument. As the passengers drove through the city centre, the guide indicated the points of interest before finally reaching the Basilica of Notre Dame D’Afrique.

The final tour ‘Tipaza and the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania’ departed at 9:45am. After departing the ship our guests travelled towards Tipaza to explore the amphitheatre, baths and basilicas before taking a short walk to a restaurant where they stopped to have a packed lunch, while overlooking the Roman Baths. Finally, a short journey was made to the Mausoleum of the Mauritanian Royal Family before a leisurely drive back to the Saga Pearl II.

Following departure at 5pm, Maritime Historian, Nicci Pugh presented a lecture on ‘A history of hospital ships during the Korean, Vietnam and Falkland Wars.

This evening’s cabaret showtime was yet another spectacular performance from our Gail Davies Production Company in the show ‘Love Sweet Love’.

I have been lucky enough to visit many of the ports located around the coasts of Sicily. However, Trapani was to be a new one to add to my list.

After Roman, Vandal, Byzantine and Arab dominations, Trapani was conquered by Normans and flourished.
 In the 17th Century, the city decayed due to revolts, plagues and famines. However, in the following Century it grew once again. The city was badly damaged during World War ll when it was subjected to intense allied bombardments. Tourism has grown in recent years due to the city’s proximity to popular destinations such as Erice, Segesta and Egadi Islands.

We made our approach to the pilot station off the harbour entrance for 7am. Our typically Italian pilot, dressed immaculately, soon joined me on the bridge. Seeming more intent on talking on his mobile phone, he had mentioned it was the ‘big boss’ on the line (his wife perhaps?).

I was allowed to set about berthing the Saga Pearl II while he remained on the opposite bridge wing, phone in one hand, exaggerated gestures coming from the other. I do hope his day improved!

Once safely alongside the first excursion to depart today was the ‘Palermo and Monreale’ tour. This tour took our Passengers on a panoramic trip around the highlights, after seeing the Palace of the Normans and the impressive Cathedral. Our guests left their coach at the Quattro Canti crossroads and embarked on a short walking tour. A traditional Sicilian pasta lunch was then served before driving to the picturesque Monreale.

The ‘Ancient Wonders of Segesta’ was the second tour to depart at 9:15am. The enigmatic ancient site of Segesta stands on the summit of Monte Barbaro about 1000 feet above sea level. The site is most famous for its beautiful Greek temples. After visiting the temple, passengers then took a local shuttle bus to the Greek theatre. We finished the tour with a short orientation tour of Trapani.

The final tour was ‘A Taste of Trapani’. This relaxing tour commenced with a visit to the Torre di Ligny, an impressive square tower built in 1671. After leaving the tower,  our Guests passed the famous salt works and the windmill that was used to drain water from the salt ponds. The final destination was to Paceco, where the passengers visited the Fontanasalsa olive farm before heading back to the ship.

Following a swift departure at 6pm, the evening’s entertainment commenced prior to dinner at 6pm with the team trivia quiz hosted by Resty. After dinner it was cabaret show time and the delights of ‘An Evening with Gershwin’, hosted by our very own cruise director, John Parton.

The evening was rounded off in style in the Shackleton’s Bar. Our passengers could dance the night away to a host of favourite floor fillers from the 60s and 70s.  

Without a doubt one of my favourite ports, and indeed ‘sail in’, in the Mediterranean is that to Grand Harbour in Valletta. We made our approach to the Pilot Station for 7am this morning and I had recommended to the Passengers to be up early in order to view the spectacular sights as we approached. They were not disappointed.

A glorious morning awaited us and once our Harbour Pilot was safely onboard the Saga Pearl II slid gracefully between the breakwaters and into Grand Harbour. Grand Harbour was the base for the Knights of St John for 268 years, and after their departure became a strategic base for the British for a further 170 years. The area was the scene of much of the fighting in the First Siege of Malta when the Turkish attempted to eject the Knights of St John. The whole area was savagely bombed during the Second Siege of Malta during World War II, as the docks and military installations around the port were legitimate targets for Axis bombers, making it a fitting location for us to conduct our Remembrance Day Service later this afternoon.

The first excursion departed shortly after our gangway was landed ashore, this was entitled the ‘Maritime and Military Vittoriosa’. The tour drove by coach to towards Vittoriosa where the city is an open-air museum. The tour began with some information on the Great Harbour area then a walk through the narrow streets to the early Auberges of the knights, their hospital, the armoury, the treasury and palaces connected with the Order’s administration. Our Passengers were given an insight to the local way of life, before continuing onto the Maritime Museum. The tour was completed with a refreshment stop while overlooking the spectacular views of Grand Harbour.

The next tour ‘Scenic Malta’ departed shortly after at 8:45am. This scenic tour revealed some of Malta’s finest attractions such as the picturesque fishing village of Maraxlokk and Zurrieq, where home to the famous Blue Grotto. To complete the tour our Guests had the chance to sample some delicious local delicacies including, cheese and pea cakes, galletti and gbejniet before heading back to the Saga Pearl II.

The final tour ‘Seaplane Experience’ took off from the centre of Grand Harbour which was a stunning backdrop for the start of this thrilling flight seeing adventure. This excursion gave our Passengers the chance to admire the magnificent fortified cities and impressive coastal cliffs. The flight lasted approximately 30 minutes and covered all three islands of Malta, Gozo and the tiny island of Comino.

Prior to sailing this evening our Passengers and Officers gathered on our after deck to commemorate Remembrance Sunday. Our Classical Musicians, the Landolfi Quartet, played as our Passengers took their seats. Then all the Officers, dressed immaculately in their white number 10’s uniform, marched in perfect sequence to the aft end of the deck and formed a semi-circle around the lectern and wreath, having been briefed by Ship’s Security Officer Roy Gandy, ex Warrant Officer Fleet Master at Arms RN.

It was a most fitting service, made all the more poignant by our location and gave a chance for reflection and remembrance for all those who have lost their lives during conflicts fighting for their Country.

The wreath was then marched out by our Master at Arms Sergeant Falam Tamang ex Indian Gurkhas and together with Security Officer Roy Gandy; they cast it into the sea.

For departure tonight our agent had arranged for a seven gun salute, sounded by the canons located on the fort ramparts within Grand Harbour, a fitting end a memorable day.

‘At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them’

Another near perfect morning greeted us as we made our approach to Sousse.

I had never visited this small port on Tunisia’s east coast. After studying the navigational chart, it appeared the entrance to the small inner harbour would be a tad ‘tight’ to say the least. It has just 15 meters or so to spare on each side as we entered.

We were graced with the presence of two pilots this morning.

Once onboard pleasantries were exchanged and I completed the master-pilot handover, detailing the manoeuvring characteristics of the Saga Pearl II and the heading we were on.
The pilot informed me he would be happy to take the ‘con’ of the ship while I cast a watchful eye over his approach. I had lined the ship up on a heading to which I believed would see us safely through the narrow entrance. Funnily enough the pilot agreed and did not alter the course, even by a single degree, as the Saga Pearl II swept majestically through the entrance and then onto our berth. Good judgement or good fortune? Well perhaps a bit of both! 

The first tour departed shortly after our gangway was landed. This tour was to the city of Kairouan, some 40 miles from Sousse.
Kairouan is the first city of Islam in North Africa and the fourth holiest city in the Islamic world.

After the coach journey from the port, our Guests visited the Aghlabid Basins. Upon reaching the centre of Kairouan, they stopped to view the Great Mosque before visiting the Zaouia Sidi Sahbi which contains the tomb of a companion of the Prophet Mohammed. The guide then took our passengers on a walking tour of the old town before heading back to the ship.

The second tour to El Djem departed at 8.30am.

El Djem is about 45miles south of Sousse . It was once the flourishing Roman city of Thysdrus, which had a population of about 40,000 and was a centre for olive oil production. The most striking relic of the Roman era is the immense amphitheatre, which dates from about 230AD and would formerly have seated more than 30,000 spectators. The tour shows the remains of the seating and arena, as well as the passageways and vaults once used by wild beasts and gladiators.

For those remaining onboard,  James was our duty cruise host today. James had lots of activities going on for everyone to participate in. Early on there was short tennis, table tennis and virtual archery, and then in the afternoon there was a Passenger shuffleboard tournament.

While sailing our resident Pianist, Andy Law, was on hand to tinkle the ivories on the back day as we bid farewell to Tunisia and set a course towards Valletta in Malta.
The evening commenced with Nicci Pugh, our guest Maritime Historian, presenting a fascinating talk on the ‘history of hospital ships’. After dinner, Rebecca hosted this evening’s quiz followed by the spectacular Gail Davies Production Company in their most energetic show ‘Sailaway’.

I had set our arrival time to Tunis for midday allowing our Guests to enjoy a leisurely morning at sea.

As we approached the pilot station at 11am, a two-minute silence was held onboard in proud memory and with heartfelt gratitude for the fallen. Our main Remembrance Service will take place on Sunday but many Passengers choose to meet in the Discovery Lounge this morning and join our Ships Chaplain, Canon Neil Russell, as he offered a prayer and blessing in honour of all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country during conflict. It was so touching to see so many of our guests gathered to pay their respects.

It had been many years since I had visited La Goulette - the port for Tunis. It had been a regular call for me with my last company but I was happy to see not a lot had changed as the years had passed.

Our rather jovial pilot arrived onboard just after midday and in no time at all the Saga Pearl II was swung around and manoeuvred safely onto our berth.

The weather was simply perfect and many of our guests had opted to join the ‘Scenic Tunis’ excursion.

This panoramic tour revealed both the old and new parts of the city. Accompanied by a local guide, our Passengers started the tour by travelling down the famous boulevard of Avenue Habib Bourguiba, passing the 19th century St Vincent’s Cathedral and through the heart of the modern French influenced city. The tour then continued past the ancient city of Carthage before a short stop for refreshments.

As always, for those guests who wished to proceed ashore independently, a complimentary shuttle was provided. For those choosing to remain onboard Rebecca, our duty cruise staff, was on hand to keep all entertained.
Following our departure at 6pm, the evening’s entertainment started in earnest with a general knowledge quiz hosted by James in the Shackleton’s Bar. This was followed by a highly acclaimed one-man show with our resident cocktail pianist, Andy Law. To round off the evening, our guests then had a chance to dance to the fabulous sounds of the Saga Pearl ll’s orchestra.

Following a most enjoyable three days at sea, during which time our passengers were able to relax and unwind along with becoming accustomed to all the Saga Pearl II has to offer, we made our entry into the Mediterranean.

The weather on our trip south had been near perfect. Having studied the forecasts, it looked like this favourable weather would remain for many days to come.

This morning saw us make our arrival into the small Spanish exclave of Melilla on the northern Moroccan coast. The town is on the eastern side of the Cap des Trois Fourches - a rocky peninsula that extends approximately 25 miles.

Our stay today was to be relatively short but it offered our guests the chance to take a gentle stroll ashore on Terra Firma and explore the charming old town. After collecting our harbour pilot shortly before 8am, we made our approach into the harbour. The harbour is in the northern part - which is Spanish. The southern is Moroccan. In no time at all we were all fast and berthed safely alongside.

Our sailing time was set for 1pm and as I greeted many passengers back from their perambulation, they were quick to tell me what a delightful time had been had. For those passengers who had decided to not go ashore today they could join Resty, our Duty Cruise Host for today, with the many activities he was hosting this morning. Golf chipping and deck quoits to name but a few.

Later in the afternoon, following our departure, passengers had the option to join Rebecca and Alistair for a game of shuffleboard or a game of virtual archery with Resty and James. For those who were feeling more energetic they could join Mike for his popular fitness club.

Prior to dinner our dance host, Martin, hosted a well-attended ballroom dance class. Following a delectable meal served up by our food and beverage department, our guests could choose to enjoy the beautiful sounds of the Landolfi Trio with their classical recital, or they could join John, our Cruise Director, and Andy, our Resident Pianist, for some fun in the Shackleton’s.

Finally for all those who weren’t quite ready to retire to bed, they could venture into the Shackleton’s Bar to join Andy for some late-night cabaret and cocktails.   

Dating from Roman times, the Galician city of Vigo has a fine natural harbour and is renowned as the biggest fishing port in the world. It is also full of history; it was in this fjord like quay that the English and Dutch defeated the French and Spanish fleets in 1702.

We had been experiencing a storm that was affecting our progress that had been brewing mid Atlantic. I had been watching it for a few days so when we cleared Gibraltar, we were all battened down, passengers advised and we made our way to Vigo.

On the morning of arrival, the swell was affecting the entrance to the harbour and at one point thought I was going to have to abort due to the surf, but with a good bridge team, we steered gingerly in between the islands and were soon picking up the pilot in the shelter of the harbour.

At 0745 we were alongside in Vigo. Such was the strength of the swell, it was affecting the berth, and the Saga pearl pitch and ranged up and down, fore and aft all morning. We deployed extra ropes to counteract this.

There was two tours that went off this morning the first of which was ‘Santiago de Compostela’, this tour give a wonderful opportunity to visit the pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela with its charming old quarter and beautiful cathedral which dominates Obradoiro square. The cathedral has become the most popular site of Christian pilgrimage after Jerusalem and Rome. At Obradoiro square the passengers was told more about the cathedral and plaza and then was giving some time to browse the local shops.

The second tour to go was ‘Tui Cathedral and Wine Tasting’. The excursion headed south towards the province of Pontevedra and the historic city of Tui, which is set on a hill close to the Portuguese border alongside the River Mino, known as ‘Tuda’ to the Romans, Tui has a compact city centre of narrow streets and traditional Galician buildings. One of the main attractions for the tour was the 12th century cathedral, which following several invasions, was converted into a fortress studded with battlements. The tower forms a magnificent balcony over the river; afterwards continue to a local Parador where the passengers could enjoy a tasting of two local wines, with snacks.

Andy, Staff Captain took the ship away, then once clear of the harbour, we experienced the large swell again. Up to 10 metres at times but this ship is such a good sea ship, she rides it well. After 4 hours, we had reached Finisterre, and were able to turn into the Bay of Biscay, put the swell astern of us, and a comfortable night was had.

The evening’s entertainment started with a team trivia quiz hosted by one of our cruise staff James. This was followed by show time with The Saga Pearl II Palladium where our cruise director presented a farewell variety spectacular featuring The Nero String Quartet, Sally Jones, The Gail Davies Singers and Dancers and Bettine Clemen.  The night did not end there as for passengers who wanted to stay up late there was Late Night Cabaret and cocktails with our cocktail pianist Adam Reece.

This is sadly my last ever Blog on Saga Pearl II as I leave the ship in Southampton to go on leave. I will do 2 weeks on Saga Ruby for a Mystery Cruise then I have the privilege of taking the Saga Sapphire into the Saga Fleet, from dry dock on her Inaugural Season. I have loved my time on Saga Pearl II; watching her grow in popularity and watching all the ships company work together to make it a success.

So I leave with a very heavy heart, saying goodbye to a lovely ship, one that was my ship when my son was born, so I will always associate this ship with Scott, who has also sailed on her last year. I work with a great team and the consolation is that many will go to the Saga Sapphire, but I will also get to reacquaint myself with many colleagues who left when I left Rose, Ruby and Spirit of Adventure.

So I hope you have enjoyed the Blogs from here, and look forward to writing those on the Sapphire.

Enjoy Christmas when it comes and speak with you in the New Year which will be very exciting for us all in Saga....