Thursday, January 23, 2014

Cruise : Sea days and sailing South

We spent the first two days at sea learning our way around this huge ship.

You are immediately struck by the sheer scale of the cruise ship. It feels less like boarding a vessel and more like stepping into a floating city. The first few hours are a sensory overload as you try to absorb the grandeur of the ship’s design and the endless array of activities and spaces that stretch out before you.

The ship's massive atrium opens up in front of you, a multi-deck space adorned with glass elevators, sparkling chandeliers, and lively cafés. The hum of activity fills the air as passengers mill about, exploring the shops, bars, and entertainment areas. It takes a moment to adjust to the fact that, even though you’re out at sea, surrounded by water, the inside of the ship feels so self-contained and luxurious.




In the evening we went to The Place theatre to see the 60's group "The Happenings" perform a very polished set. We then went to the formal evening in one of the 3 main restaurants.











The next day started with International  "The Belly Flop competition".
The belly-flopping competition on the cruise ship is one of those events that draws a crowd. It’s held mid-afternoon on the top deck by the pool, the air buzzing with excitement.

 Deck chairs are packed with eager spectators, some sipping tropical cocktails, others clutching their cameras or phones, ready to capture the action. The pool sparkles under the bright sun, its clear blue water a perfect stage for the outrageous spectacle about to unfold.

The emcee, full of energy and humor, stands near the pool with a microphone in hand, hyping up the crowd. "Are you ready for some SPLASH-tastic fun?" he yells, and the audience erupts in cheers. Participants are lined up on the side, each one looking both nervous and thrilled, wearing everything from Hawaiian shirts to brightly colored swim trunks. A few have gone all out, with inflatable arm floats and exaggerated water goggles to add to the ridiculousness of the event.











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