Spirit of Adventure blog

Our two sea days reminded us that escaping the UK and going on a cruise is a great idea. Everyone on board was commenting how the weather back home declined and how lucky we were with our sunshine and temperature of over 20 deg C. We did have a slight motion with a 2 m swell, just enough to remind us that we are on the ship, not in a hotel.

The open decks were used well, and Executive Chef Raj and his team were making special lunches on the Lido deck, and I was closely monitoring today’s programme as I didn’t want to miss out on his delicacies. Mongolian lunch, Italian Cichetti and Stir Fry were all amazing. I did skip his signature Curry, as on that day I was craving Sous Chef Enrico’s signature Cheeseburger.

Our next two ports in the Canaries were Las Palmas in Gran Canaria and Arrecife in Lanzarote. Both ports are well known to both crew and guests. We were the only ship in both ports with prime berthing spots. Staff Captain Simon was the designated driver during both arrivals. I took us out from Las Palmas where we had extended our stay, and we planned to have a sailaway party with dancing under the stars. The only problem with my plan was that no one told the rain it wasn’t supposed to come as the forecast looked so promising, but that didn’t stop the party as we relocated it to the Britannia Lounge. By the time we dropped of our pilot, and I made my rounds to see how the party was going, the dance floor was full.

We had busy morning in Arrecife as a crew drill was planned. Chief Officer Mr. Korbey took us out of the harbour. As much as I love manoeuvring the ship, I do want my team to progress so I step back and take the mentoring role whenever conditions in the port allow. We were lucky with the weather this cruise which allowed all senior watch keepers to get their hands on the sticks.

Our next stop was Lisbon. They have built the new terminal which is great, but it consists of a long air bridge and by the time you get through the terminal you need a rest. We were discussing this a couple of days ago and Judi, our Explore Ashore Manager, asked if there would be a chance we could dock at the old terminal, which is much more user friendly as you walk off the gangway and go through the gate into the city. I told her that whenever we have asked the answer was negative, but told her she is more than welcome to try. One phone call later we got the permission. She is a star, and I mentioned her effort during my arrival announcement so guests could appreciate her dedication.

Simon was again the driver for the arrival, while departure was in hands of our 2nd Officer Adam. Now, all that’s left is hope for fair winds and calm seas on our way back home. I will be disembarking once we arrive to Southampton, and as Chris Rea sang: I’ll be driving home for Christmas. Stay safe, stay well, I’ll be back in February.

Kind Regards
Captain Franko Papić