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Sea Mail from ROO #251182 12/11/18 04:01 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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In SFO in the international United/Singapore lounge. Very nice. Lots of cubicles with usb and power outlets, table top and wide seating. Plus a nice dining room, limited options but it included a loaded three egg omelette. Very large lounge on two separate floors. Security and checking was a breeze. So staring off really well.


[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251183 12/12/18 03:38 AM
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We are ensconced in a beautiful resort in the Blue Mountains - Lillianfels. We flew over on Virgin Australia; absolutely fantastic. Very comfortable seats; great service; and a quick 15 hours from LAX. Then we took the train to Katoomba; decent intercity train. I am sitting out in garden trying my first new Aussie beer - James Boags Premium Lager; I hear there are over 30 different Aussie beers and I aim to try them all.

Met a couple on plane who are on the Regent Blue Mountains pre-cruise; will be interesting to compare experiences once onboard.

Looking forward to seeing everyone on Friday.

Marc



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251184 12/12/18 10:58 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Singapore new A 350 aircraft was very good. The seats are wide and the back of the seat folds down flat to make a wide comfy bed. The feet angle in on the side which I found a little odd but adjusted. Asian airlines always have a great crew. Food was good. Waiting for connection down to Sydney.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251185 12/12/18 08:31 PM
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petlover Offline
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Happy you've arrived with good flights...let the good times begin!


Marcie

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251186 12/13/18 04:34 AM
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Marc Offline
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Today we went to Scenic World; one of the highlights of this area. It was ok; not fantastic. We walked down to the Skyway and it was a pretty trip although misty. The 52 degree railroad to valley was neat and views were fantastic; great view of Three Sisters. Then, the cableway down to the bottom and walk through the rainforest; truthfully, rain forest in Patagonia was a better walk.

Back to hotel around noon and we have been sitting here in the lobby reading, playing backgammon, and enjoying beer and tea. If you are in the area, this is a fantastic property. Will take train around 11am tomorrow; should be at hotel by 1:30.

Let the festivities begin!

Marc



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251187 12/13/18 09:01 AM
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jbittle Offline
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Cyclone Owen is heading east from the Gulf of Carpenteria across land to the east coast of Queensland and down the east coast of Australia over this weekend. We may have a very wet start to our cruise and, what about excursions in the flooded areas? Stay tuned to your TVs in the hotel.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251188 12/13/18 06:26 PM
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Marc Offline
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Jim, thanks for the heads up; here is the current forecast remarks section:

Quote
REMARKS:
131500Z POSITION NEAR 15.0S 137.3E.
TROPICAL CYCLONE (TC) 05P (OWEN), LOCATED APPROXIMATELY 380 NM
EAST-SOUTHEAST OF DARWIN, AUSTRALIA, HAS TRACKED EAST-NORTHEASTWARD
AT 04 KNOTS OVER THE PAST SIX HOURS. ANIMATED ENHANCED INFRARED
SATELLITE IMAGERY SHOWS A COMPACT SYSTEM WITH A SMALL AREA OF DEEP
CONVECTION LOCATED AROUND THE LOW LEVEL CIRCULATION CENTER (LLCC).
THE INITIAL POSITION IS PLACED WITH FAIR CONFIDENCE AND IS BASED ON A
130947Z 91GHZ SSMIS MICROWAVE IMAGE WHICH SHOWS A PARTIAL MICROWAVE
EYE FEATURE. THE INITIAL INTENSITY OF 75 KNOTS IS HEDGED BETWEEN
DVORAK CURRENT INTENSITY (CI) ESTIMATES OF T4.5 (77 KNOTS) FROM PGTW
AND KNES AND A SATCON ESTIMATE OF 73 KNOTS AT 130947Z. TC 05P IS
EXPERIENCING FAVORABLE VERTICAL WIND SHEAR (5 TO 10 KNOTS) AND HAS A
LIMITED EQUATORWARD OUTFLOW CHANNEL BUT AN EXCELLENT POLEWARD OUTFLOW
CHANNEL. SEA SURFACE TEMPERATURES IN THE AREA REMAIN FAVORABLE AND
ARE GREATER THAN 31 DEGREES CELSIUS. TC 05P IS TRACKING EASTWARD
ALONG THE SOUTHERN PERIPHERY OF THE NEAR EQUATORIAL RIDGE (NER)
LOCATED TO THE NORTH. IN THE SHORT TERM THE NER WILL CONTINUE TO
STEER TC 05P TO THE EAST. FAVORABLE VERTICAL WIND SHEAR AND WARM SEA
SURFACE TEMPERATURES WILL ALLOW TC 05P TO INCREASE TO AN INTENSITY OF
80 KNOTS BY TAU 12. AFTER TAU 12, AN NER TO THE EAST WILL BEGIN TO
STEER TC 05P TOWARD THE SOUTHEAST. AN APPROACHING SHORTWAVE TROUGH
WILL ALSO HELP TO ACCELERATE TC 05P TO THE SOUTHEAST. TC 05P WILL
TRACK OVER LAND BY TAU 30 AND WILL QUICKLY DECREASE IN INTENSITY DUE
TO LAND INTERACTION. CONTINUED LAND INTERACTION WILL ALLOW FOR TC 05P
TO REACH AND INTENSITY OF 35 KNOTS BY TAU 72 AND DISSIPATE TO 30
KNOTS BY TAU 96. BY TAU 96, TC 05P WILL SLOW IN FORWARD SPEED AND
BEGIN TO TURN TOWARD THE SOUTHWEST. DYNAMIC MODEL GUIDANCE IS IN
FAIRLY GOOD AGREEMENT THROUGH TAU 36, INDICATING A EASTWARD AND THEN
SOUTHEASTWARD TRACK. HOWEVER, MODEL GUIDANCE DIVERGES AFTER TAU 36.
DUE TO THE COMPLEX STEERING ENVIRONMENT AND THE MODEL SPREAD AFTER
TAU 36 THERE IS LOW CONFIDENCE IN THE JTWC FORECAST TRACK. MAXIMUM
SIGNIFICANT WAVE HEIGHT AT 131200Z IS 22 FEET. NEXT WARNINGS AT
132100Z, 140300Z, 140900Z AND 141500Z.//


Won't be much impact on us but I hope forecast is correct in that storm doesn't cross east coast as that could screw up clarity for snorkeling on Great Barrier Reef.

See you later today!

Marc



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251189 12/13/18 09:57 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Marc, you always give us details you are an amazing source of information but what I love the most is the simple comments that sum it all up for people like me.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251190 12/14/18 06:39 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Went for a walk and found the Pitt Street mall. Neat place with performers down the middle of a pedestrian sheet. Complete with outdoor crystal chandeliers. Plus this giant Christmas tree.

Ken has run down to the wharf to take a picture of the Mariner arriving. We were lucky enough to be docking at the Circular Quay wharf. I am watching the Mariner right now and it is just about to go behind the opera house.

[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251191 12/14/18 06:48 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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[Linked Image]

Last night we had the kick off party. They bought in two koalas, a wombat, a baby joey in a blanket, a python and a baby crocodile. Really fun. Food for over 350 people was good. Not rubber chicken.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251192 12/14/18 07:00 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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From our bedroom window. This new posting method is so easy and fast I love it

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251193 12/14/18 07:28 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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[Linked Image]


[Linked Image]


Well Ken’s pictures are better than mine BUT I did mine in my jammies and did not have to run to the wharf at 6.00 am.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251194 12/15/18 02:32 AM
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Love this little guy. This is what you go to OZ to see but to have all those critters at the dinner must have been really something, The baby roo must have been REALLY cute. So glad your dinner was so enjoyable. Good stuff !!

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251195 12/15/18 03:56 AM
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It is great to be back on board. First person who recognized us (and we him) was Joseph. Then it was Ronald and Sylvester and then Ray, Kseniia, and Antje. Refurb of ship is wonderful; this is going to be a fantastic cruise!

Edited to add

Rumors of Catalin’s retirement are premature; he is alive and well and bartending in horizon lounge

Marc



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251196 12/15/18 01:31 PM
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So nice to see Ken this morning as we got off the ship. Very sad we could not join this sailing but we would be replaced at work if we did!
Spent a great day exploring before going to see Shania Twain in concert. Returned to our hotel just in time to see the Mariner sail away at midnight. Not the best quality pictures from my phone, but here they are. Bon Voyage!

[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: CvH] #251197 12/15/18 03:18 PM
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Simply beautiful? This will be a very special cruise.


mm
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251198 12/15/18 04:23 PM
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pwolftx Offline
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Bon Voyage! Wish I were there with you.


Peggy
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251199 12/15/18 05:58 PM
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petlover Offline
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Such gorgeous photos !! It makes me so sentimental seeing Circular Quay wharf.. brings back wonderful memories. I'm so envious but there's NO way the timing over Christmas would ever work for us. Have a FANTASTIC TIME and keep taking us along.


Marcie

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251203 12/16/18 07:46 AM
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Kate and I came in first at bridge; perfect score on Mensa quiz; then part of Ngaire’s first place trivia team; a great day. Arlene and I are heading to Sette Mari for a wonderful dinner.

Life is good!

Marc



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251205 12/16/18 08:56 PM
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jbittle Offline
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We had some special guests at the Four Seasons before desert:
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251206 12/16/18 09:56 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Wonderful Jim, understand you posted these with the great new option Kim found. That first picture with Pat holding the Joey is fantastic.

So the swell is too big for us to tender today. So we are pulling up anchor and heading off to our next stop.

Wonderful dinner last night, tenderloin and lobster. Tonight we have Prime 7.

We paid to upgrade to a penthouse when we first booked this cruise. This is the longest trip we have done so decided to splurge. This was probably a mistake as I like it way too much !!!

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251207 12/17/18 12:09 AM
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yeah agree Ngaire.....we have had PH cabins on the Mariner several times and they just spoil you for sure.....I just love those cabins. Enjoy! I have always wanted one of those Horizon or Seven Seas suites on the aft with the larger deck, but I don't know think those PH's may just be the best cabins ever.


JoAnn
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251208 12/17/18 11:05 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Fun night at Prime Seven

[Linked Image]


Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251210 12/17/18 03:08 PM
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Four of our very favorite people....lookin' good !!


Marcie

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251214 12/18/18 04:19 AM
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jbittle Offline
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We had a helicopter medevac from the Mariner off the coast of Queensland. Nobody allowed on deck so hard to score photos. Maybe Mark has some good ones.
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251215 12/18/18 08:00 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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The decoration on the ship is really well done.

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251216 12/18/18 08:14 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Jim I think you got pretty good shots. The wind was up and the helicopter had to circle for quite a while. Not an easy situation for the helicopter pilot.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251218 12/19/18 04:26 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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On our tour in Arlie Beach morning tea. Good fruit but no scones.

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251219 12/19/18 04:36 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Big drawings tonight at the cocktail party

The winner of the free cruise
The winner of the Regent $10,000 referral future cruise credit
The winner of the Oceania $8000 referral future cruise credit

I am always excited about who is going to win.

Starting in 2019 we will have a short review sheet rating the ship from your recent cruise. Each review is an entry in the drawing. Only one review per person per cruise. The link will be in your welcome home email. We will draw at the end of year for a $5000 future cruise credit for both Regent and Silversea.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251220 12/19/18 05:43 AM
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Marc Offline
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Ngaire, are the reviews for any Regent cruise or just escorted cruises?



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251224 12/19/18 08:11 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Any recent Regent or Silversea cruise booked by Keene Luxury Travel.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251227 12/20/18 05:08 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Went to the Billabong Sanctuary in Townsville today. Got hot at the end but a good day.

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251228 12/20/18 05:23 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251229 12/20/18 05:34 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251230 12/20/18 04:00 PM
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petlover Offline
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Lots of cute photos !!

I like the idea of doing a ship review and getting in the hopper for a FCC. We'll be leaving shortly for the Silver Galapagos and happy to do a ship review.


Marcie

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251231 12/20/18 09:24 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Yes it will be a very easy review. Mostly just star ratings and a short area for overall comments. I like the idea of having drawings for things for our clients. Always fun to see who wins and a nice thing to have on our website as well for new comers to the cruise lines.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251232 12/21/18 12:59 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Butterfly in Cairns

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251233 12/21/18 02:26 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Pictures from the wildlife park. Mother kangaroo kept protecting the Joey in her pouch with her body.

The lizard stood up and then started to fall off the log but was able to hold on but ran to the far corner and jumped into its small water pool. Obviously shaken by the experience. Wish I had been videoing.


[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251234 12/21/18 03:23 AM
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Bloody hot; bloody humid; Cairns is beautiful. We have decided to skip our two tours in Cairns; went to mall today; packed with Christmas shoppers. Deck bbq tonight; I have a feeling given the passenger mix Compass Rose will be pretty crowded. Bars are empty at night. For a show last night in Horizon with Orchestra and lead male singer from cast; only 16 passengers. They were ready with two bartenders and five bar waiters; most of which were let go very quickly. After only a half hour set; the singing ended and there was another half hour of dance music with the orchestra; only problem was that they took a half hour break before finishing their set; by then, there were only three passengers in the lounge. Checked out Observation and there were zero guests. Stars had duo so they had about a dozen guests. This ship is dead. "By popular demand," they have started having the shows pre-dinner (okay, not all of them). So, I imagine half of pax will come to take pictures of bbq and then head to Compass Rose for dinner.

Marc

PS For those that remember Robin from this year's South America cruise; we have a "competitor" on this cruise.



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251236 12/21/18 04:48 AM
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KLT Cocktail Party & Free Cruise Winners Marc and Arlene:

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]
Marc and Arlene look very happy.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251237 12/21/18 08:37 PM
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jbittle Offline
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Ngaire forgot to mention that the standing lizard said "In less than 15 minutes you can save over $400.00."

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251241 12/22/18 05:25 PM
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pwolftx Offline
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Hey Roos -- someone please say hi to Ray Solaire for me. Unfortunately I haven't sailed with him for a long time sad


Peggy
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251243 12/23/18 01:53 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Will do Peggy. He looks good never seems to age.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251244 12/23/18 07:29 PM
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Just getting caught up. I am so jealous. Would love to do this cruise, but unfortunately there is that nasty thing called work. Though I did remove a 107 lb ovarian tumor from a lady last week, which doesn’t come around every day.

Still, would love to be there. The baby kangaroo is just adorable. And Australia is one of our favorite destinations.

Congrats to Marc and Arlene on the free cruise as well.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251245 12/23/18 10:54 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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In New Guinea. The children are adorable and the flora is really lush. My first shot I just took this love being able to post immediately.
[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251246 12/24/18 01:24 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Was not expecting much on our tour. It was only two hours and it was hot but I really enjoyed it. Guide spoke great English. Small bus about 14 people. We saw a lookout, went to a high school with a tour hosted by the top female student, and a then to a local marketplace. All very interesting. The people were really friendly all waving to us in the bus.

Ken will have better shots but here are a few more.


[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251247 12/24/18 06:25 AM
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I'm a little behind on posting photos. Here are a few to catch up.

[Linked Image]
A resort we visited on a tour in Airlie Beach, Australia.

[Linked Image]

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These were little cottages at the resort.

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This boat was used by General MacArthur during WWII.

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Crocodile show in Townsville, Australia.

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An overlook of Townsville.

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Butterfly Avery in Cairns, Australia.

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[Linked Image]
Ngaire, Pat, Jim and Kangaroos.

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251248 12/24/18 06:39 AM
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Ken Offline
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Alotau, Papua New Guinea on our city tour:

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]
This young lady guided us at the school where she attended.

[Linked Image]
Classrooms.

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251249 12/24/18 06:49 AM
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Ken Offline
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A folk show with dancing and singing:

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]
I got a little too close.

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[Linked Image]
Local market.

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251250 12/24/18 10:47 AM
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Trivia update: we have played nine times - six wins, one second, one third, and one crash and burn. Today we scored a perfect 15 and got a round of applause. Mensa quiz has been wonderful too.

Port Moresby has been cancelled for tomorrow so three sea days in a row.



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251251 12/27/18 06:16 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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This morning we had a demonstration that we have never seen on a ship before. They put one of the life rafts that are housed in a barrel in the swimming pool and inflated it. It came up extremely quickly. Then they had staff compete for who could jump in the water, be pulled into the lifeboat and come out at the other end in the fastest time. Lots of fun. Ken took some video but not sure if he has pictures he can post. It may come up on our Facebook page he will send the video to Julie.

Tomorrow Darwin. We are doing the jumping crocodile cruise tomorrow. Done it once before and enjoyed it very much.

Seas have been unbelievably smooth. This time of the year is cyclone prone but fortunately all has been well. There was a cyclone when we arrived but it did not affect us at all. Looking at the Passage weather site it is the same calm seas for the next 10 days.

Food has been great and trying hard not to eat so much but it is really difficult to keep on the straight and narrow.

Off now to trivia our team as Marc has mentioned has been doing really well.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251252 12/28/18 05:58 AM
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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251253 12/28/18 12:26 PM
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Great shots Jim, that was a fun event and you captured it well.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251254 12/28/18 06:13 PM
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Wow, that was some exercise in the pool. We've never seen anything like that before. Thanks Jim for photos.
I Love seeing all these photos of those adorable little kids. Such memories, they are so precious, I wanted to hug each one of them. I love reliving the crocodile jumping out of the water excursion, that was so fun.

Thanks for taking us along with you !!


Marcie

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: petlover] #251255 12/29/18 03:52 AM
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I’ve never seen that before either! Thanks so much to Jim for posting!

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251256 12/29/18 08:51 AM
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Darwin, Australia - Jumping Crocodile Cruise:

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Magpie Geese near Adelaide River.
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The Adelaide River.
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It didn't take very long for this big guy to show up.
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Marc, Dave & Ngaire.
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Water Buffalo brought in from settlers.
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Whistling Kite.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251257 12/30/18 08:04 AM
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So today was Komodo island to see the dragons. I decided to stay onboard, I have seen them three time before and it is so hot.

Ken came back with a great story of some action like he has never seen before. There were two dragons by some water and another dragon approached. Hissing sounds started and then a chase ensued coming right towards the group. The rangers rushed everyone out of the dragons path. Ken said it was amazing how fast they were. He wished he had taken some video but he said it was so rushed moving out of the way. He did not want to be trampled by the dragons.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251258 12/30/18 09:40 AM
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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251259 12/30/18 11:55 PM
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AGAIN unbelievably calm seas. A few swells right after leaving Sydney but since then we have enjoyed really nice seas. We have 19 days to go hopefully it continues. Looking at the weather going forward and it still looks good. Mostly docks rather than tender ports so hopefully we should not have any missed ports.

Trivia team continues to do well. We changed three correct answers yesterday and thought we were out of the running but surprisingly we still won. I just sit there and write the answers don't even need to think.

We arrive in Bali at 1.00 pm. Tonight the big bash for New Years eve. Many of us are eating at a Sette Mari international buffet before heading out. We do not leave the ship until after 8.00 pm and by the time we eat it will be so late. Plus for a picky eater like me just makes sense to go AFTER dinner and just enjoy the festivities. They will have entertainment of course. Onboard they are having a special show and dancing to ring in the new year.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251262 12/31/18 04:22 PM
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Happy New Years to all of you onboard...Congrats on all your Trivia wins too...amazing.


Marcie

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251263 12/31/18 11:13 PM
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Happy 2019 from the Mariner.
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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251264 01/01/19 03:32 AM
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Last nights New Years celebrations were to say the least Spectular. The venue was amazing. There must have been well over two hundred people working the event.

The dancers were fantastic, one dance was like a story and totally kept your interest. Each course was served with fanfare with all the waiters coming in carrying the food dressed in costume. The food wasn’t great but that is not what it was all about. For the last thirty minutes there was singing and dancing music. There were a lot of the guests dancing including everyone at our table dance. At midnight they released confetti in all colors. Really beautiful.

Overall a event I wiill never forget. A few iPhone shots from last night.

The welcome drink that was yummy and beautifully served

[Linked Image]

These beautiful girls were all along the pathway leading to the main function room
We were lead into the room by drummers probably 50 of them with a very catch beat. Really a neat experience.
[Linked Image]

First course was a soup served in the way
[Linked Image]


Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251265 01/01/19 03:45 AM
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Ken will have far superior pictures but a few to start.

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

The drummers that led the way and did drumming and dancing on stage.

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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251268 01/02/19 01:11 AM
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As Ngaire said, New Year's Eve in Bali was fantastic! We had a wonderful time; Regent sure hit it out of the park.

Segment 2 trivia started off with a bang; we got 16 of 16. One of the other holdover teams from the first segment scored 15 of 16; I think the newbies must feel they are in for some tough competition. Bridge starts this afternoon; will be interested to see size of game.

This second segment is all new for us; we are really looking forward to WA, SA, and Victoria. Weather will get hotter but dryer and then hopefully cool off near the end.

Marc



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: jbittle] #251269 01/02/19 02:24 AM
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Ngaire - I loved all the pictures of your New Year’s Eve frolic in Bali - it sounds like it was a great event. Your attire was so very appropriate and you looked terrific. The picture of you with one of the dancers was a particularly nice one.
Ralph and I wish you and Ken a very happy and prosperous New Year!

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251271 01/02/19 03:59 AM
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Ken May post better pictures but I love having the ability to post so quickly. Ken and Sheila have joined the cruise so nice to have then with us.

Seas still calm, amazing this many days with lovely seas at this time of the year in this part of the world.. Every morning we open the curtains to a nice ocean. I am off to a tropical fruits and seafood buffet. Yummy and healthy so an excuse to eat a lot.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251272 01/03/19 12:23 AM
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Bali, Indonesia:

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Bali New Year's Eve Night.
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[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251275 01/05/19 01:16 AM
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Third cancelled port today - Exmouth. Not a surprise as both Navigator and Regatta missed it on their attempts. Water quite rough so snorkeling probably wouldn't have been much fun. We are sitting here for a while (for a very expensive delivery of needed laundry chemicals) and then will make our way to Perth. Given heavy winds and swells the Captain will be "hugging" the coast on our run down the west coast; does anyone remember Costa Concordia? wonder

One side affect of the coast hugging is closing of shops and casino; probably just for today.

Trip has been absolutely fantastic. Great friends, great ship, great food, and great service.

Marc



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251276 01/05/19 05:17 AM
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Have to agree with everyone, fantastic trip! As I was home on NYE, wished I were in some Asian port to watch as I saw them happen in TV. What a beautiful job they do in other parts of the world to make it do special. In my mind, a good change from our normal Times Square experience. Have fun you all!

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251277 01/05/19 05:28 AM
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From Broome really pretty scenery

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Dave and Ngaire
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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251278 01/05/19 05:58 AM
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Broome, Australia:

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Coming into Broome.
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[Linked Image]
A beer tasting at Matso's Broome Brewery.
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I like the Mango Beer the best.
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Downtown Broome.
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The barber shop where I got a haircut and they did a nice job.
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[Linked Image]
The sign on the boat said "This vessel laid up for safe cyclone anchorage".

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251279 01/05/19 11:13 PM
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More Broom
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[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251280 01/06/19 02:58 AM
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[Linked Image]


Ken went snorkeling but his arms were taken by a great white shark. He recovered quickly

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251281 01/06/19 05:58 AM
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So our super calm seas have been replaced with a swell but not bad. System off the coast and the ship has hugged land to reduce the impact of the system. That was a good plan. Even though we had the swell the sun was still shining so no biggie. Next few ports are docks so we will be fine for our tours.

Just finished a wonderful rack of lamb lunch. Absolutely outstanding could not have been better. I will not admit how many lamb chops I ate I lost count. MY Cowboys won their game today. Does life get any better than this - probably not!!

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251282 01/08/19 12:11 AM
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The photo of armless Ken S. is fun and fabulous with the colors!

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251283 01/08/19 03:31 AM
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Fremantle, WA
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[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251284 01/08/19 05:30 AM
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Fantastic excursion into Swan Valley yesterday; a winery wine tasting followed by lunch including beer tasting followed by a trip to chocolate factory with chocolate tasting and ice cream followed by a wine tasting at another winery followed by a city tour of Perth and neighboring beach. We were exhausted but still made it to Prime 7 for a fantastic dinner. Beatles night was supposed to be on pool deck but wind was blowing music away so moved to Horizon at last minute; crew did a fantastic job going from zero to 100+ in Horizon Lounge; great bartending team on board.

Resting up today as we have an early morning excursion tomorrow.

Marc



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251285 01/08/19 06:22 AM
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Wonderful day in Fremantle and Perth. Great contrast between Freemantle with all the old classic buildings (shown in Jim’s pictures above) and Perth with its contemporary new buildings. Perth is a stunning city, super clean, lots of water and parks everywhere. Very impressed.

Some pictures of some new friends. So many nice new people in our group on this trip.

Joe and Kathy on 2019 Thor (Norway) and Antarctica 2020 (pop2it)

[Linked Image]

Chuck and Jane are in a group of six really nice people. Lighting on the faces is not Not good but better than nothing

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251286 01/09/19 03:32 AM
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Pictures from the beautiful beaches in Esperance. Complete with a wild kangaroo.


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[Linked Image]


[Linked Image]


Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251287 01/09/19 04:20 AM
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Stonehenge replica in Esperance.

John and Dorothy listening to the guide and of course Ken taking pictures.

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251288 01/09/19 08:39 AM
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Clear water and beautiful white sand beach
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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251289 01/09/19 11:41 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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A SUPER FUN EVENING

A couple of days ago the ship had a White Elephant Auction. Only seen one of these in the past. They auction off items and all proceeds go to the ship crew fund and people can use their shipboard credit. These are a ton of fun. We bought a couple of things the best being dinner for two crew members. We bought a dinner at the new pool grill that is open at night now as it was a venue we thought the two people we invite might be more comfortable.

We took Dennis our waiter and our stewardess, Liberty. We found out she is the niece of the ever famous ARNOLD who dates back to our first group cruise on the Song of Flower where everything that could go wrong went wrong. Anyone who sailed with him will remember him,

We had an amazing time. Was not sure how it would go but we laughed a lot and it was so nice to “host” them for a change. They became very relaxed and we talked about all kinds of things. Really a fun evening we were both on a high by the end of the night. The Captain came up and talked to us and our stewardess was awe struck with the Captain talking to her.

I wish they would do these more often but I guess if they did the novelty would wear off.

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251290 01/10/19 09:21 AM
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Joan saw emus from the bus in a field. She “air dropped” me the picture and I cropped it to make it closer but it is a bit blurry. Just really neat she saw these in the wild.

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251291 01/10/19 02:21 PM
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We also supported the crew welfare fund by bidding for a dinner with Dr Alan Stern and his wife Carol. He is the Principal Investigator for the New Horizons probe. We had a fantastic dinner talking about all sorts of things such as Texas, the future of New Horizons, Brian May, and JHU APL. It was a fantastic dinner in Prime 7. We thoroughly enjoyed the dinner.

Sea day tomorrow and then Kangaroo Island; weather is looking good for tendering.

Marc



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251293 01/10/19 06:35 PM
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Good for both of you! Such a worthy cause!

Our "dinner with the crew" evening 3 years ago was one of our fondest cruise memories of all time.

{Ngaire - FYI - I sent you a PM. Nothing that important - I just noticed before that sometimes with the new webpage format it is hard to tell when you have a PM, so thought I would let you know. Thanks!)


Cindy
TravelingTexasDuo.com

"In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years." - Abraham Lincoln
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251294 01/11/19 01:03 AM
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Pictures from Ken S alias Nikon Ken

[Linked Image]


[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

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Ken doing something unique taking a picture
[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251299 01/12/19 01:16 AM
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Anchored at Kangaroo Island. Stunning day, high of 70, sunshine and seas we can tender. Off for a tour shortly wanted to come here for many years.

Update - at noon the weather changed. Strong wind created white caps and swell. We managed to get ashore but it was a rough ride. Extremely windy. The island was not what i expected. Large areas of cleared land with tree wind breaks, rolling hills and cattle and sheep. It looked like New Zealand but not green grass but brown grass. Still very scenic.

We saw group of Kangaroos. They were BIG a little shorter than the Red Kangaroo but much stockier. These Kangaroos are a new species and are not on the mainland. The isolation has created a whole new genetic kangaroo. There was a little joey also. We also had a wine tasting and saw yet another beautiful beach.

Then a pretty rough tender ride back BUT so glad we got ashore. All worked out well in the end.


Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251300 01/12/19 01:44 AM
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We spent 3 days on Kangaroo Island with Ker & Downy package a couple of years ago. It was truly magical! Had a great tour of the island. Seals, kangaroo, wallabies, koalas - all in the wild!! Totally awesone!!


Cindy
TravelingTexasDuo.com

"In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years." - Abraham Lincoln
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251301 01/12/19 03:19 AM
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This continues to be a fantastic cruise. Lots of sea days together with great ports. The company has been terrific too. Very much enjoying the ship and Australia. The weather has been fantastic. Marc and I are sitting on the pool deck finalizing our plans for our New Zeal and post cruise. Life is great!

🐨


Arlene
Adventure before Dementia!
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251302 01/12/19 08:51 PM
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In Adelaide today! Sun is shining and totally calm. Still amazed at our overall weather at this time of the year in this area. Beautiful day. I am not going out today (probably a mistake) but the Cowboy game is on here at 9.15 am. I have found an Australian radio station where I can hear the game and then I can watch the play on play on another site. Ken is off with the others may regret this decision on such a beautiful day.

Our trivia team had dinner last night we had a lot of fun. There is an eight top table where you can hear each other and it worked really well.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251307 01/14/19 02:48 AM
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When do you all go to the Open? It finally started on TV tonight,


Betty
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251308 01/14/19 07:11 AM
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Photos from Perth to Adelaide, Australia:

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Perth.
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Fremantle - an interesting wall sculpture on a old vacant building.
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Esperance.
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Marc taking a photo of Arlene with kangaroo.
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Australian Christmas Tree.
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Lighthouse at Kangaroo Island.
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Overlook of the small town of Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251309 01/14/19 07:18 AM
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Adelaide - Cleland Animal Park:
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]
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[Linked Image]

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251310 01/14/19 07:28 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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I guess I missed a great excursion in Adelaide but I am sure I will be back. Kens pictures above.

Nice calm seas again all day today a light swell, just enough to rock you to sleep. Some bad stuff south of us so I expect the swell will increase a little but the sun shining brightly.

Tomorrow we are docking in Portland instead of tendering. Good thing as I expect the swell to be too high to tender. Looking forward to our excursion to "Port Fairy" sounds very nice and almost two hours free time that I always love. Then wine tasting.

We are all getting excited about the tennis and we are going on the 16th so only a few days away.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251311 01/14/19 07:29 AM
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On the 16th Betty - really looking forward to this event. New Years was fantastic and hopefully this event will be just as a great.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251317 01/14/19 04:37 PM
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Thanks, And these photos are wonderful. I would have loved to do this cruise. Well, maybe not in the heat but your ports have been fascinating. I really look forward to your Melbourne stop. Australia is absolutely a must see.


Betty
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251322 01/15/19 02:22 AM
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A lovely dinner last night Sette Mari with Katja (destination manager) and Aldwin (casino manager) super nice people.

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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251323 01/15/19 03:13 AM
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We LOVED this beautiful picture which included two of our most favorite Regent staff members. Ngaire, please ensure you let Kadja and Aldwin know how much we enjoyed seeing them pictured on LCT, how they are often in our thoughts, and that we hope they continue to enjoy their jobs and each other. It was just GREAT to see that they are still together and thriving by the looks of things!!!! Please send them BIG bear hugs from us !!!

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251324 01/15/19 03:37 AM
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Tennis matches are all set.

First match will be women's second round:

Beatriz Haddad Maia from Brazil against second seed Angelique Kerber from Germany.

Second match from men's second round:

Matthew Ebden from Australia (I think local crowd might be for him) against second seed Rafael Nadal from Spain.



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251325 01/15/19 04:16 AM
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Spectacular! Kerber and NADAL!! Lucky!!!!

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251326 01/15/19 04:42 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Enjoyed our tour today. Hour ride to Port Fairy then free time. Cup of coffee in town then we walked down to the dock. Beautiful spot with some lovely houses facing the inlet with lots of yachts and boats. Perfect day. No wind and nice temperature.

Then onto a winery where we had a fun time. Owner of the winery moved it along with no long drawn out speeches about each wine. Just a little history of the region.
He was MR PERSONALITY. It sure makes a difference to the experience. I would call him a “fair dinkum bloke”.


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list of wordsworth poems
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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251328 01/15/19 05:54 AM
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Evening Pool Deck BBQ at the end of the Adelaide visit.
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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251333 01/16/19 09:27 PM
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Regent took those of us who are on the full Circle Australia Grand Cruise to see 2 second round matches of the Australian Open in Melbourne. First we had a sumptuous dinner in the Glass House Restaurant and then went to Rod Laver Arena (Centre Court) to first see Angelique Kerber (GER) defeat Beatriz Hadad Maia (BRA) and Rafael Nadal (ESP) defeat Matthew Ebden (AUS). Both Kerber & Nadal are #2 seeds. Both matches were exciting and we all had a blast.
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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251334 01/16/19 09:31 PM
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I used ImgBB, but the photos didn't show. Click on the links to see them.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251335 01/17/19 02:12 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Hi Jim

There are some codes that do not show. I found that myself and then went down to the BBCode full linked then they worked. That may be the issue. These codes do not look long enough. I know the HTML codes do not work and some other code as well. The BBcode full linked usually comes up on the list first but if it does not show the BBcode FULL LINKED then just scroll down to that code.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251337 01/17/19 02:17 AM
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The tennis “excursion” last night was absolutely spectacular. Such a well run evening. The dinner was great, being at the Australian Open was quite a treat and nothing we would have been able to do on our own. Some of you may remember Elsa who used to work in the cruisee directoctors offce several years ago. She was at the dinner and is now working in sales. It was great to see her. To top off a wonderful evening, when we got back to our suite at about midnight, there was a small plate of sandwiches and cookies wailing for us curtesy of the F&B manager and the chef. I know that this was one way of them not getting inundated in room service when we all came back late, but it was a nice touch and a wonderful surprise. A great midnight snack. The whole evening reminded me of the old Radisson days. Very happy cruisers here!


Arlene
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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251341 01/17/19 02:29 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Not being a tennis fan I was surprised how much I enjoyed the whole experience. We were all in high priced seats with a super view. Really got into once I figured out the scoring.

This iPhone shot is blurry but the best I could do, this was a Nadal serve. I liked the ball in the air on this shot.


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Trophies from the Australian Open. With a racket this big I may be able to actually hit a tennis ball


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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251347 01/17/19 06:08 AM
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I really, really, really hope we get to go to the AO when we are down there in 2021 on the Explorer. (Really!)

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: jbittle] #251348 01/17/19 06:16 AM
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Hi Jim -

Ngaire is correct. You need to use the BBCode. Thanks for sharing your photos. I copied the codes and entered them in this post:

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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251350 01/17/19 10:12 PM
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Thanks for sharing your experiences at the Aussie Open. I am an absolute tennis tragic (still play but not very well) and have become a 'couch potato' for the last week. I am heading off to Melbourne on Monday for the week - just hope we have an Aussie or two left to watch. Would you believe my 'bucket list' consists of a circumnavigation of Australia - just thought the time of year could be a bit hot! Maybe the new Regent ship will do it, by which time I will be too old to travel to the other side of the world!! Enjoy the rest of your cruise! Lee

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251351 01/18/19 03:57 AM
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Wonderful tour today. Started with gardens owned by locals and maintained by volunteers. Plants from various areas of the world. When the bus pulled up I saw the sign “Devonshire teas”. That means scones with jam and cream that will be made fresh by a local. We did a golf cart tour of the plants from around the world with 30 minutes left for tea. The were FABULOUS melt in your mouth scones. Kate does not like scones but she tried them anyway and ate all of hers. She kept saying these are good. I had two orders and was in a state of bliss

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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251352 01/18/19 04:05 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Pictures from the gardens.

One of the volunteers has a sense of humor

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A regular hydrangea bush along with three other unique species of hydrangeas.

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Th friendly and well dressed emu

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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251353 01/18/19 04:21 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Pictures from the wildlife park

Baby Tasmanian Devil
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Emu
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Meerkat

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Momart cute furry animal that is very active hard to get a picture. Not the best but better than nothing.
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Tasmanian Devil
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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251354 01/18/19 04:29 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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This young ROO was in the mother’s pouch just one week ago.
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Dave and Jan
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Dick and Kate
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Bottle fed tiny Wallaby.
[Linked Image]aroos.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251359 01/19/19 04:56 AM
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Burnie, Tasmania - Gardens and Animals:

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Momart.
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Tasmanian Devils fighting over food. The one on the left won.
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Wombat.
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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251361 01/19/19 10:54 AM
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Its over. Possibly best Regent cruise ever. I used to think 17 nights was ideal; now 36 nights seems ideal. Early flight to Auckland tomorrow so we need to take our own luggage off ship and pray 😊

Still almost three weeks of touring for us.

Marc



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251362 01/19/19 03:33 PM
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Have so enjoyed following your cruise. Hope to do this itinerary one day! Safe journey home or onward travels to everyone!


Cindy
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"In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years." - Abraham Lincoln
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251363 01/19/19 08:35 PM
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We sailed past the Opera House and under the Harbour Bridge before 6am - still dark so no great photos. We're docked at the White Bay Cruise Terminal awaiting clearance. It's been a great cruise as Marc said. Farewell to all our LCT friends who will leave soon. We're among the 20 guests who are continuing on with the Mariner, so more excitement ahead.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251364 01/20/19 12:03 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Now in the lounge at the Sydney airport five hours to wait. That’s okay though better that than rushed.

The cruise exceeded our expectations. Better weather and ports than I had anticipated. Lots of really nice newbies on this trip as well. Plus of course spending time with old friends is priceless. I was not ready to get off felt so at home. Looking forward to returning in March for Samuri.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251365 01/20/19 12:26 AM
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As Ngaire, Marc and Jim said, this has been a really great cruise, far exceeded our expectations and we were so lucky with the weather and seas. Now a short flight home. Sad to say goodbye as always but what a great time we’ve had.


Sheila and Ken
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251366 01/20/19 06:44 AM
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We left the ship quite early this morning for our flight to Auckland. This cruise was one of the best very good friends, great itinerary and a wonderful brew. Marc and I are now going to spend about three weeks in New Zealand. Flight today was two hours late so just camping out at the hotel tonight. The adventures begin tomorrow!


Arlene
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Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251368 01/25/19 10:17 PM
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We lucked out on ROO with the weather. Yesterday in Cairns there was 100% rain and the front hung over the area all day spoiling all the tours. It was too wet to even go off to a restaurant so we stayed on the ship. Today we're at Cooktown (replacement port for Port Moresby) and the same front has us covered with rain & winds. It's a tender port and at 7:30am the Captain cancelled the port. Now 2 days to Thursday Island. The guests that boarded in Sydney are quite a different lot. Trivia has less than half the number playing as on ROO. Other than more pre dinner dancers in Horizon, most public areas are more empty. It's a glum crowd. We miss the KLT crowd already.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251372 01/26/19 06:54 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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Weather is such a factor to people's moods. Here is wishing you sunny skies in the future and a happier crowd! Knowing you and Pat you are making the most of it anyway!

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251373 01/26/19 11:00 PM
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Marc and I have been having a terrific time in New Zealand! Ralph, June and Ngaire helped us plan a wonderful itinerary. First.... if you haven’t been to New Zealand yet, make plans to come. It is so beautiful and green. I honestly don’t know how June leaves it. It is a beautiful country, so peaceful, clean and such fresh air! Any country that has naturalized Agapanthus (my favorite flower) along all the road ways and in the cities is great in my book. Just beautiful!,!!

We started out in Auckland, but will be there at the end of our trip, so haven’t seen much of it yet.

We drove up to the bay of islands on the north island, and the drive was spectacular, such beautiful scenery (did I mention the agapanthus?). The drive was just amazing, the green hills, the sea, the lakes, just beautiful. We took a harbor tour and loved it, all the sail boats and islands. Next we drove to Matamata to see Hobbitton the film set of the Lord of the rings movies. I haven’t seen the movies or read the books, but Marc had and it was a big deal to come to “middle earth”. So well done and again beautiful scenery. We also went to Rotorua to the Maori hangi. Marc was elected chief (those of you in the know you will laugh) which was interesting and fun. New Zealand is a gardener’s paradise. Then on to Wellington, were Marc went to the Te Papa museum. We then Walked some of the city and went to the botanical gardens via the cable car. What a glorious place in the middle of the city. I have absolutely fallen in love with NewZealand! We are now at the ferry terminal waiting for the ferry to the South Island which everyone tells me is prettier then the north, but I find that hard to believe. Time will tell, I’ll let you know when I next have time to check in.


Arlene
Adventure before Dementia!
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251377 01/27/19 08:20 PM
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Ralph and I are so glad you are enjoying your tour of NZ. A land tour is a great way to see the country. We wish you good weather and many more enjoyable experiences. The scenery in the South Island is indeed different than the North Island, but both are quite special/unique in their own way. Looking forward to hearing more of your observations as you continue your travels.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251380 01/29/19 12:45 AM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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I worked right at the base of the Cable Car when I lived in Wellington. We would ride the cable car up and have our brown bag lunch in the gardens and then ride the cable car down again! VERY cheap in those days no idea what it is now. Te Papa is a great museum I really like it and the restaurant there is very good as well.

You will be sailing through the sounds I hope you have good weather. They are truly stunning in the sun. We used to ride that quite often on the weekends on the perfect day just for an outing. Come back the same day.

Bringing back some good memories for me!

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251384 01/31/19 08:15 PM
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For those that haven't driven the west coast of the South Island; I heartily recommend it. After the wonderful ferry to Picton, we drove to Nelson which is a beautiful seaside city. Plenty of wineries (we hadn't booked a tour in advance so out of luck) and wonderful lunch at Mapua. After two nights, we drove to Fox Glacier. The Tasman pine forests were beautiful on the way to Greymouth and then an easy drive to Franz Joseph glacier. We walked up to base of glacier; spectacular. We then drove to Fox Glacier to spend the night. The next morning we went 6KM west of Fox Glacier for a most fantastic view; not only Fox Glacier but also Mt Cook and the ridge line of the Southern Alps. Then we drove to a wonderful viewing spot close to Fox Glacier. The drive from their to Queenstown was amazing. Pristine coastlines with few people and then up Haast Pass with plenty of stops for waterfalls. We took the shortcut into Queenstown which was a bad move; all the switchbacks made it a very slow and uncomfortable trip; I would recommend staying on SH6.

Once we got to Queenstown, we needed to rebook our excursions. First, changed Milford Sound flight to Sunday due to forecasted rain (which has appeared on schedule). Second, we had final paperwork for sale of our Alabama house yesterday so we moved Earnslaw steamship to Saturday. I am glad to report that after TWO YEARS we are finally DONE with the sale.

Three more days in Queenstown followed by two days in Auckland (America's Cup sailing boat) and then we will be heading home. Roo and post-rRoo have been spectacular.

Marc



Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251387 01/31/19 11:09 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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CONGRATULATIONS ON THE SALE OF THE HOUSE --- that is sure worth a big celebration!

I love the South Island of New Zealand you are making me want to take a land trip there again. That area from Franz Joseph to Queenstown I think is the most beautiful scenery in the world.

Glad you are having such a great time!!

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251390 02/01/19 03:56 PM
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Such a good feeling to have your home sale behind you. Congratulations. I'm so happy you've had such a fabulous time in NZ...sounds like you weren't scared driving on the wrong side of the road. That sounds challenging to me. It sure is a gorgeous country!


Marcie

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251408 02/05/19 05:12 AM
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We have had the most wonderful time in New Zealand. We have seen a lot of the north island and a lot of the South Island. Day before yesterday we went to Milford sound. Took a plane in and out and a two hour boat trip around the sound. It certainly is beautiful. I have fallen in love with New Zealand. It is so pristine and the scenery is spectacular. We ended the trip today inAukland. We did an America’s club sailboat excursion that was simply fantastic. We were out for about two hours and got to help raise and lower the sails and tack. It was probably one of the best things I have ever done. We head home tomorrow, and I suppose it is about time as we have been gone since December 10th. One thing is for sure, we will be back Someday!


Arlene
Adventure before Dementia!
Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Ngaire] #251411 02/05/19 01:24 PM
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Ngaire Offline OP
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So happy you had such a good time. The tour you did was excellent and you made good use of your time. To have a nice day to do the flight from Queenstown to Milford was the icing on the cake. I spent time at that tiny hotel at Milford when I worked for the government hotel chain. Pretty remote I loved it there.

Re: Sea Mail from ROO [Re: Mrs. Marc] #251414 02/05/19 08:01 PM
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We are delighted to hear you enjoyed your visit to Aotearoa! I have never made a secret of the fact that I love NZ and Ralph and I love going to the South Island, and in particular, Queenstown, our favorite place anywhere in the world !! So glad you took a flight to MIlford Sound followed by a 2-hour cruise. That is the only way to go, in my humble opinion. We are particularly happy you seemed to have had good weather. That can make such a difference, The sail around the Harbour in a former America’s Cup yacht would have been excellent fun and a great way to see the harbour and environs.
We don’t arrive back in Auckland until Feb 9th and leave exactly 89 days later, one day short of the max time Ralph is allowed to stay.

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