We have the best butler ever, this trip. There is something new, a "butler menu" with a list of possible canapes for him to bring. And he will bring as many as we ask for, I guess; yesterday was big prawns and cocktail sauce, and a plate of crudites with ranch dressing. We've asked for a repeat of that for today.

Last night after dinner, we found a mousse cake with "Happy Anniversary", and a bottle of Heidsieck Brut on ice. We were stuffed, so I took a picture of the cake and then put it over on a smaller plate and into the fridge.

The captain's welcome party was very well attended; my hair simply wouldn't behave, so we were there only long enough to shake hands with him, then went on to Compass Rose. The pool deck was packed again today at lunch time; the grilled fish was great.

The linens are lush! Our stewardess is very experienced and efficient. It's just overall a great cruise so far.