Our sailaway out of Funchal was beautiful. We then made our way over to JoAnn and Frank's for a wonderful pre-dinner, meet & greet Sue & Tom cocktail party. So great to finally welcome sweet Sue and Tom aboard to join our group. Sue gave each of us the cutest Aflack ducks.

We then made our way to CR. Unfortunately, we needed to split into two tables, as our group was so large. Spreading the frivolity into two sections was a good thing. Our group was having so much fun - we drove out the people at the table behind us. The laughing was getting to them big time. The laughing reached a fevered pitch when Maria became frantic at the loss of her duck. The waitstaff advised her that her duck had been taken to Reception for safe keeping until the rightful owner claimed him. The ordeal was hysterical! Who would have thought in just a few hours, Maria and her duck would have forged such a bond?

The Walking on Water tour began the second portion of our tour-intensive schedule. Alas, a few couldn't sustain the intensity and the survivors held a burial at sea ceremony. Needless to say, the burial at sea was not in the itnerary, so everyone who participated will have to cough up some extra $$$$$$$$$. A more formal memorial service will be held tonight in the Observation Lounge.

Today, being our first sea day, has gotten off to a great start. Alan and I had breakfast on the deck joined by one of our guest lecturers and his wife. Fascinating discussion.

The weather continues to be brilliant. Smoothe seas and sunshine!

Seafood BBQ today for lunch. Ah, life is good!