Welcome to paradise – Ok, I’ll admit it. I’ve been having too much fun to take the time to post here. Plus, the internet had been extremely slow yesterday (or so I’ve been told).

Our bus excursion in Papeete was hot and humid and sort of what I expected although it was much more crowded than the usual Radisson bus excursion. The highlight of the day was when we returned from dinner and the O’Tahiti E show. The stewardess had placed a Radisson gift on the bed for each of us. Inside was a note about viewing the treasures of Polynesia and a set of binoculars. This was unexpected. I knew that the World Cruisers receive many gifts during the WC but I didn’t think we would be included.

When the ship sailed into Cook’s Bay, Moorea, yesterday morning, I knew we were in for a fantastic day. Now this is my idea of French Polynesia. We took the Lagoon Discovery with Snorkeling excursion. The highlight was swimming with the sting rays. What fun! After spending time in the water with the rays gliding by us, under us and even into us, the boat headed for a snorkeling spot. We saw purple coral, various fish and a huge school of small black fish that were oblivious to us. Once back at the dock, I headed off to a pearl shopping adventure with Vicki from Atlanta and her sister, Stephanie, from PA. With their help and advice, I had a very successful day.

Last night the Captain invited everyone on deck for a sail-away party and some sight seeing. It’s what I call a “Capt. Dag moment”. As the ship glided from Cook’s Bay to Opunoho Bay (the site for many Hollywood filmings), the Captain played the soundtrack from South Pacific over the loudspeaker. The ship pirouetted in the bay, circling a small pleasure yacht called the Pangaea. The Captain even sent over two bottles of champagne to the smaller ship. What could be better on a warm, cloudy, Polynesian afternoon than to be standing on deck with our champagne, listening to “Bali Hi” and “Some Enchanted Evening” while we view spectacular scenery.

New entertainers boarded in Papeete and last night, Donny Ray Evans performed Nat King Cole songs. He’s singing “soul” music the next time he performs. I’ll be there!

Today we are in Raiatea. It’sbeen fun but we’ve had to dodge passing rain showers. We took the Faaora River and Island Exploration excursion. First we drove 4-wheel jeeps into the interior and toured around the crater of the long-extinct volcano. Our guide would stop and show us many of the ways they use the vegetation. My favorite was the juice from the wild ginger plant which was like a hand washing lotion. The jeep portion of the tour ended at the Maori temple and then we boarded a motorized out-rigger canoe to travel the lagoon and river. Tonight is the on-deck barbecue with dancing under the stars. Currently the rain is pounding outside our window. I’ve been looking forward to this so hope the rain moves on soon.

Tomorrow, we’re in Bora Bora and then four much needed sea days. We’re burning the candle at both ends. Got to catch up on my sleep.

Adding a bit more. It rained on the barbecue last night but we still had a great time. They oponed La Verandah so many people sat inside to eat. The buffet was under cover on the pool deck. The Gaugines are here and they were the entertainment. After dinner, the weather cleared so we went outside for the show and dancing. Jamie sang as did some of the other passengers. We danced and danced. Hope they do this again.

Donna,

I am really enjoying your reports. Thanks for taking the time to post for us! Keep having fun and keep posting, please!

Betty

Donna,

Thank you for your great reports. I'm glad you enjoyed the snorkeling and also that your pearl shopping was successful! Good thing you will be getting some rest after Bora Bora. Keep us posted on your next adventures!

Dena

Sounds like you are enjoying Fr. Polynesia - thanks for posting.

Donna - we do that here in Hawaii too. We have torch ginger that you can squeeze the flower to release the juice in the flower - you can use it to wash your hands or to shampoo your hair (it's in a variety of commercial shampoos as well as a fragrance - you might have seen Paul Mitchell's awapuhi shampoo before? That's what awapuhi is. :) )

Masaki

Donna, I'm lovin' your reports! Especially since I'll be visiting some of the same places on my cruise in November. Thanks for posting!

Donna & Alan:

So glad to hear that all is going well on a trip you anticipated so much and, Donna, we're happy to see that your pen is truly flexing its muscle.

Cheers! Ray & Penny
Journal writing is a voyage to the interior.
Christina Baldwin

Donna, your day in Moorea sounds perfect to me! Thanks for braving the slow internet to update us!

We had a good day in Bora Bora but also my first disappointment with Radisson. They scheduled a motu day at the last minute. Unfortunately, there wasn’t time to cancel our excursion. We debated whether to skip the excursion and lose the money or go on the excursion knowing we would probably miss the motu. In the end, we stayed with our original plans, a jeep tour of the island. While the jeeping was fun, stopping by the market so our driver could grocery shop and being stuck at the pearl farm for 30 minutes in the hopes that everyone would buy something was frustrating. By the time we got back to the ship, it was definitely too late for the barbecue on the motu. I don’t usually get mad but it made me angry that we had to miss such a special event (and something I have always wanted to do.) So, I took a nap. No use exposing anyone to my bad mood. When I woke up, Alan and I sat on the balcony and watched the departure from Bora Bora (which was lovely). By the time we finished dinner in Signatures, I was back to my normal happy self. And, our dinner was outstanding.

Donna, glad all is better...we too got stuck with the poor class pearl tour at the end of the 4X4..it sours the majesty of Bora Bora views you're exposed too...hope u get another chance at a motu in FP..r/wes

Donna,

Glad you are having fun. The Bora Bora Motu is not the same as the Ta'aa motu (Motu Mahana) that we all rave about. The drive around Bora Bora is lovely.

Donna, I am really enjoying your reports. What a nice cruise you are on!

Donna - your posts have been wonderful, and I would say at this point you are no longer "Marcie in training", but have become "Donna the great poster" all on your own!!

thanks for sharing all these adventures with us, and I know that there are many more to come, since you are going all the way to Hong Kong. Too bad about missing he motu day, that does sound fun. Have you bought any black pearls yet, or did I just miss that?????

We are looking forward to meeting you and Alan on MUSH, so don't even think about canceling it - it won't be the same without you two!!! I think of you every time GA Tech plays football, well or basketball I guess at this point.

Take care and keep having fun and posting for the rest of us to enjoy your trip with you. :D

Donna, I am REALLY enjoying your on-board postings! That Capt. Dag seems to love giving everyone surprises at the last minute IF he can. Hey, a nap never hurt anyone. Glad you liked the jeep tour in BB, mine did not include your stops, just an off-road experience and back to the ship. On the PG, I was able to do that in the a.m. and then go to the motu in the afternoon. But for us, it was not a barbeque, that was on the other motu (private island). I can imagine your disappointment, maybe they'd better warn people next time.

Keep the posts coming, Donna. Truly enjoying your cruise through your fantastic writing!

Sorry to hear of your disappointment. However, if anyone could make lemonade out of lemons, it's you! Good to know that your evening was so special. I know you will enjoy the remainder of your cruise. Have a super time!

Donna,
Oh I am so sorry, I can just feel how disapointed you must have been. I would have been as well. I simuply hate the being dumped off "hoping they buy something" thing. I think all the lines do something like that. I am so glad you managed to have a lovely evening. Enjoy the balance of your wonderful trip.
Cindy

Donna, I am sorry you had a less than perfect day in Bora Bora. It is such a paradise, I wish you could have the same wonderful memories of it that we do. In any case, I'm glad you did not let it spoil your great attitude. I'm sure you still have many wonderful adventures to come on this trip!

Goes to show what different experiences people can have in the same place - even possibly with the same tour operator! We really enjoyed the BB 4x4 tour - we had a great guide, and we made 3-4 stops at view points, but no stops for "shopping" at all other than a quick stop for cold drinks or ice cream.

Looking forward to hearing about New Zealand!

Dena

Donna,
Really enjoying all your reports of your adventures and looking forward to many more!

You don't want to know how poorly Tech's basketball team is playing!

Love reading your seamail Donna! Capt. Dag just loves to pull little surprises....there will be more unexpected like the South Pacific music I'm sure. So happy you're having a great time! Keep up the wonderful job of sharing with us!!

OK someone help me out here. I've never been to Polynesia and have no idea what a "motu" is. Thanks, Jeff

It's a small island. RSSC sets them up for lunch, drinks, kayaking, beach chairs, etc. The full-day motu off Ta'haa on the 7 day PG trips is awesome. This included the floating bar out in the lagoon. There's a second motu day off Bora Bora. On the PG, it was not as comprehensive as the Ta'haa motu. I didn't visit it so can't give you a comparison.

Hope that helps! Cheers, Anne

Thanks for all the supportive remarks. Sorry I can't answer like I ususally do, darn this slow internet! Can't wait until April when I get free internet. I'm appreciating that benefit more and more.

About the motu day, it was one of those "Capt. Dag moments" and I'm sure that Roger, the Travel Manager, dreaded fielding all the complaints and questions about cancelling tours at the last minute. We still had a very nice day in Bora Bora although the tour did have a few glitches, nothing to ruin our time though. I'm just one of those people who doesn't want to miss a thing!

They played a tape of fun at the motu the next day and I finally was able to watch it without turning too green! It was a full barbecue with floating caviar bar and champagne, tropical drinks, dancing Gauguines, etc. It looked lovely and now we'll just have to go on the Paul Gauguin to see for ourselves!

We've had two days at sea now and yesterday the sea was quite bumpy. Alan and I had our usual coffee and croissants on our balcony. Then I headed straight to bed after taking a Bonine. Slept most of the morning and then felt better. Alan suffered the same pangs later in the day but an afternoon nap cured it. Of course formal night the day before could have added to our discomfort. There's only so much champagne, escargot, rack of lamb and choclate souffle that one can partake before the body says, "No, no, no!"

Last night Donny Ray Evans sang soul and gospel and we really enjoyed his performance. Too bad the theatre was only half full. The jamming with Jamie and Voyager Quintet never happened so Alan and I went on to bed. Need to rest up for Karioke tonight.

Donna, I am so enjoying your reports. I'm sure you and Alan are having a marvelous time despite a few glitches. Hope you are both feeling better so you can continue to enjoy feasting on fabulous RSSC goodies! Take care! Looking forward to hearing more when time allows and the internet cooperates.

Lovin' the reports D! Your blog is great as well complete with terrific photos. So glad you are having a nice time. Post again soon.

Anne, thanks for answering my question. So, it's sort of like a small private party on a very small island. Cool. Donna and Alan continue to have a good time, choppy water or not!

Hi Donna. Spending some time today checking the LCT threads. So nice to read your reports. I think the 4x4 Bora Bora jeep ride is now adding the obligatory pearl shop, they did not do that in the past but I think this is a new addition. PIPers didnt we do that on our tour?

Glad to hear hear from you and that you are having a good time. When the ship rolls and you dont feel good lay on that bed and watch movies. Best thing to do.

Will try to keep up with reading the threads. The internet is fairly fast here on the Mariner, but the time still adds up.

Donna - glad you got past the sea sickness, its awful and I've had to do what you did a couple of times!

Glad you are still having a wondeful time. Wish we could be there, but then again, feel like we are with your wonderful reports.

We are arriving in Auckland today (about 6 hours late). The ship has been slowed by swells. Plus, one night (three days ago when had such rough seas) they had to repair a broken oil pipe which also affected our late arrival. So, it looks like we’ll arrive around 3pm and leave at 11pm.

We are completing 4 days at sea and thought I’d report on news, gossip and my observations.

There are three families with children on the full WC. Two of the families brought tutors and the mother in the third family is a teacher. School is held in Signatures Restaurant for some of the children. They are all extremely well behaved. What an opportunity for a family to share this experience!

Two nights ago, the World Cruisers had a party. They divided into groups with one in the laundry room, another in the engine room and the third group on the bridge. We could tell they were having fun when the ship’s horn blew more than once. The captain was allowing the WC children to blow the horn. How many kids can say they ever did that?

Passengers who ate at Bloody Mary’s on Bora Bora came down with food poisoning. I heard that one man was so sick that he needed an IV. The ship has contacted Bloody Mary’s and I think the restaurant may be offering compensation for some of the health care (this is third-hand knowledge on my part).

Karaoke (two nights ago) was really fun. Social hostess, Dionne, is great at getting people to participate. I was only a “lurker” though. But, another “lurker” and I have decided that next time they definitely need a little doo-wop music (too many crooners this time) so we’re making our plans. Alan and I had fun dancing and by the end of the evening the dance floor was full.

I have internet in the cabin now but it’s sporadic and the level is low. I can read emails but loose anything I try to post. When we change cabins in Sydney, I have learned that I’ll have a good internet connection.

I’ve been trying out the aerobic classes. Jackie, fitness instructor, is doing a great job of instructing and offering a variety of classes. This is the first time I’ve tried these on a cruise. I’m hoping the activity will off-set the great meals, etc.

Talking about meals, we have now tried all the restaurants except Latitudes (which is scheduled for tomorrow night). I have progressed from “No, I’m not having any desert” to “Ok, I’ll only have desert at dinner” to “Desert? Of course! (lunch and dinner)”.

Jamie has been very creative with the Voyager Today TV show. He’s broadcasted from the ship’s laundry facilities, the galley, even from the water at the motu barbecue. Last night, we entered the elevator to go up to the Observation Lounge for our 6:15pm glass of champagne. Imagine our surprise when we entered the elevator and there was Jamie and the camera operator. Now, we’re TV stars and the entire ship knows where we are at 6:15 each evening!

That’s all for now.

Donna, so great to hear from you! I cannot imagine being on board and responsible for the education of my children at those ages! I take my hat off to those mothers who can do this, especially when you say it seems successful! Were you in the Stars Lounge last night, by any chance? We hear there might have been a bit of "activity" but don't have any pictures! Have you had dinner yet with Ngaire and Ken?? That is something not to be missed, for sure~

Editing to say that now I know Ngaire and Ken and others are not with you! They are on that South America thing, and you are part of the WC! So sorry. When you all are gone, we just want to HEAR from you! Sorry.

So good to read another great report, Donna. Thanks for taking so much time to keep us up-to-date on your fantastic cruise.

Those children sailing on the WC are so fortunate to have so many fabulous experiences.

Awful to hear about the people who came down with food poisoning. Hopefully, everyone is feeling better. Glad you and Alan were not affected.

Looking forward to your next wonderful installment! Take care!

WOW! Movie Stars! Now we can all say we knew you when!!!!!

Those are certainly lucky children. What an education they are getting - at least history and geography. I'm sure they will remember it all of their lives.

Sounds like you are really having a wonderful time! Thanks for taking time to check in and update us.

Hello from the Tasman Sea. So far, it’s smooth sailing and I hope it stays that way. We enjoyed our short stay in NZ. Ngaire, you have a beautiful homeland! In Auckland, we shared a private guide with two other couples and saw as much as we could from 4pm to 8pm. We did have time for a drive in the countryside and out to the Gannet (sp?) colony. What a beautiful beach. And, I finally understand the benefit of arranging a private tour versus the ship’s excursions.

Yesterday was Bay of Islands. The weather was cloudy but still we had a good day. We took the tender to Russell and walked around. Also found time to call our parents who were relieved to know that we are still alive. They are not internet savvy so they miss out on a lot. In the afternoon, the ship had a complementary tour to the Maori, Birth of a Nation show. We enjoyed the entertainment as well as the food, drink and craft demonstrations.

Last night, we ate at the Brang dinner in Latitudes. It is a Polynesian theme and the Gauguines entertained. Lots of fun and I thought the food was good.

Now we have two days at sea so it’s back to exercise, lectures and naps!! Tonight is Karaoke again and I might come out of lurkdom. I’ll report back tomorrow. First, I need that nap so that I will still be awake at 10:45pm.

Donna,

When we travel by ship, I send emails to Frank's mother to a friend, who calls her and reads them to her.

Love your seamail and reports. We are so enjoying your commentary!

Great reports, Donna; keep having fun!

Donna - great to hear from you (but sorry the stop in New Zealand was so short). Glad to hear you are enjoying Latitudes. I know it's not everyone's cup of tea but I have enjoyed it, too.

Enjoy the sea days and the karaoke. Cheers, Anne

Hi Donna,

You've given us another terrific installment. I hope the seas remain calm and you continue to enjoy your fantastic cruise!

Hi Donna, I'm loving your reports. Go glad that you and Alan are having a fabulous cruise.

Nancy

Hi Donna - Thanks for your reports, I've loved reading them. Hope you enjoy your stay in Sydney - I'm going to the wharf to have a 'look-see' as I'll be on the Voyager on 19 June. It's a pity the Diamond Princess will be in town as it will be at the Overseas Terminal at Circular Quay - the place to be but I'm sure you'll still enjoy yourselves here. Keep on having fun. Lee

Just a quick update. Formal night tonight and we say goodbye to first segment friends.

Last night, I came out of kareoke lurkdom! Won a token with my friends Vicki and Margaret when we sang "My Boyfriend's Back." Anything for a token!

Olivia, our sail across the Tasman Sea has been smooth as glass. I keep thinking of your reports from last year and the broken piano. So glad we aren't experiencing that!

Lee, we should have made plans to meet for a cup of coffee. Voyager will be here 2 and 1/2 days. I think we will be changing berths (is that the right word?) while we are there. First we will be in Darling harbour. Does that sound right? I have been having too much fun to pay close attention. We're doing our own thing in Sydney. Looking forward to the next few days.

I'm waaay behind on the blog. Hope to catch it up in Sydney. No way to do it today as internet is slow as molasses.
That's all for now.