Whitsunday's washout

Yesterday we thought that we were to be tendered ashore to Airlie Beach - however, we soon discovered that the destination for passengers was in fact to be Hamilton Island. As we were to meet friends at Airlie Beach, we thought that we would catch the ferry that runs from Hamilton Island over to Airlie - but it wasn't to be. The very early morning wind and heavy cloud soon turned into torrential rain which put an end to that
idea - until after lunch, when we finally were able to land on the island for a couple of hours. I feel sorry for the Brits onboard- they are having a run of bad weather since leaving New Zealand. First the crossing of the Tasman Sea was rough, then Sydney Harbour was wet with people saying that they couldn't see their hand in front of their face on tours to the Blue Mountains - and finally heavy rain in the Whitsundays.

We continue to get more accustomed to the ship. It has a nice feel about it and there seems to be a lot of space - we have yet to see any crowding at any venue and no queues whatsoever. While we were planning
the voyage, we were told that the food onboard is very "British" - I wasn't really able to ascertain exactly what that meant. But it is true - and we are enjoying it. As an example, Christine had "Toad in the hole" at yesterday's breakfast - and last night I had Goose with parsnips. I also turned down the Lobster at the Captain's Gala dinner on the night before - in favour of Calf's liver. Why?? - because I can get lobster anytime, but I can't get Calf's liver at any restaurant normally (and I love it!!)