Port of Suva, Viti Levu, Fiji
Wednesday, 2 October 2013
02.10.2013 - 02.10.2013
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2013 Polynesian Cruise
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We awoke at 0420 when the ship's anchor was dropped overboard. We were not due in Suva until 0700 and couldn't understand why we were almost 3 hours ahead of schedule ?? The mystery was solved when I happened to see a deck officer later, there had been a medical emergency aboard and they had made the best time possible to have the patient taken ashore.
After a brief but spectacular sunrise we pulled up the anchor and headed for our berth. The local Police Band played a welcome as we tied up at 0700. Had our breakfast in the dining room for the first time this cruise and sat with a lovely couple, both ex-RAAF of WWII vintage, both in their 90s.
Went ashore and walked through the many stores looking for a cheap USB Flash Drive. Our cabin steward has expressed an interest in some of my pictures so this is the easiest way to transfer them. Jenny needed some replacement potions and lotions which we found in the local supermarket.
Made our way back to the ship through the local produce market. Some fantastic fresh fruit and vegetables. Mounds of ginger and turmeric and hot chillies. I tried a piece of a local slice, crumb base and a rich yellow topping, very sweet but couldn't determine the flavour.
Back to the ship in time for lunch before too many people crowded the Horizon Court. All Aboard at 1530 for a 1600 departure. Suva may not be the prettiest town but it certainly has a lot of retail options and most of them in walking distance of the wharf.
The Police Band entertained us as we prepared to leave, it was impossible to find a vantage point along the deck with people standing up to three deep. Well past the 'All Aboard' time we still had a gangplank deployed. Announcements from the Purser's desk failed to locate the missing passengers and fully 30 minutes late two individuals finally arrived. The was a rousing and appropriate comment from the crowd.
The Band continued to play until we were well clear of the wharf in what was certainly the most memorable departures on this voyage.
Another enjoyable dinner and a show in the Vista Lounge. An unusual act by Richard Scholes incorporating the exaggerated movements of mime, changing masks, a bit of magic and finally some clever hand shadow work. He looks like he's been a round the block a time or two but was well worth the 45 minutes.
The clocks go back another hour tonight as we head further Westward towards New Caledonia.
More tomorrow.
My photos are posted each day to http://365project.org/tonydebont/365
Cheers ... Tony
Posted by greynomadm 02:17 Archived in Fiji