Was up bright and early as usual so I could update the Blog through our day in Bali. We are on our way to Sandakan, Malaysia. We left Bali late because we were awaiting newly arriving passengers. This means that it has reduced our “window of opportunity” to enter the bay protection Sandakan because of the tides. Furthermore, the winds and currents have been against us. We’re keeping our fingers crossed and we’ll see what the captain says when he next updates –- usually around noon.

The “Truck Stop” dinner was last night, but the menu was so good in Compass Rose, that we decided to forego the 50’s style comfort-food at the Truck Stop. We had a fantastic “French” meal (rack of lamb). I won't say how many chops Ngaire had, but it was in the double digits.

Then to top it off, the Platters' first performance following dinner was absolutely terrific. I think it was the best act I’ve ever seen on a cruise ship. Most were dancing near the stage or in the aisles toward the end of the sow. And, they were a last-minute substitution (I think for Rita Moreno, whose husband passed very recently).

It's a bright, sunny sea day today. We passed the equator almost two hours ago, and there will be a special event before dinner. There is also going to be traditional dancing by some of the Balinese crew members before the equator event. A lot in store today over and above the usual card games and trivia.

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Eugene