Cruising into Adventure: A Day in the Life of a Cheeky Traveller
Ah, the delightful dance of breakfast, the morning ritual that sets the tone for the day. At precisely 9:00, our journey into the land of cereal, full English breakfast, pastries, coffee, and juice began. It was a leisurely affair, a symphony of flavours that teased the taste buds and nourished the soul.
Are my two youngest sons up to mischief? The security cameras at home have been disabled. But for what reason? Has Number Four snuck back into the UK from Australia ably assisted by Number Three? But until we get home in 8 days the we’ll never know.
The Morning Hustle: From Tesco to Southampton
With our bellies content and spirits high, we bid adieu to our breakfast haven by 10:30. A quick pitstop at Tesco’s was in order, because who knows when the urge for snacks might strike on the high seas? Stocked up and ready to roll, we embarked on the 50-minute drive to the port at Southampton.
Dock Debacles and Detours
As we approached the port, we left it to the Bray’s to navigate the maze of docks. Oh, the joy of watching them debate over the correct entrance! We chuckled along, confident in our leisurely pace. Alas, it turned out we had misread the signs, and a detour was necessary to find the elusive correct dock. The laughter continued as we merrily made our way to our destination.
Boarding Bonanza: Trials and Tribulations
The next challenge awaited us as we joined the queue, a seemingly endless line of eager travellers. Time seemed to stretch like elastic as we waited, the minutes morphing into hours in our perception. Yet, in reality, it was only a humble 60 minutes before we unloaded our cases from the car and began the process of embarkation.
Mobile Mishap and Moments of Mercy
Ah, the joys of modern life! Just as we approached the security checkpoint, a dreadful realisation struck: someone (yours truly) had left their mobile phone in the car. Panic threatened to take hold, but the kind-hearted team at the port came to the rescue, retrieving my precious device with a smile. As I reunited with my comrades in the cruise terminal, gratitude filled my heart for their patience and understanding.
Aboard the Voyage: Surprises and Revelations
With security hurdles cleared and belongings intact, we finally set foot onboard, joining the ranks of our fellow adventurers. Much to our surprise, the demographics of our fellow passengers were as diverse as the colours of the sea. Young couples with children, middle-aged lovebirds, singles seeking solace, and, of course, the venerable blue-rinse brigade added their unique flair to the journey. Your choice which band we fit in but remember Warren had no chance of dying his hair blue!
Culinary Delights and Sporting Sorrows
With hunger gnawing at our stomachs, we indulged in a slice of pizza washed down with a refreshing beer, the perfect midday treat. As we watched the shores of Southampton fade into the distance from the open deck, the drama of sporting events unfolded before our eyes. A tale of triumph and despair played out on the screen as Manchester United battled Burnley to a woeful 1-1 draw. Oh, the woes of football fandom! Sadly for Warren the Everton game wasn’t being shown.
Evening Escapades: Unpacking, Dining, and Imbibing
Back in the comfort of our quarters, Michele and Dawn set to the task of unpacking, while Warren and I indulged in a glass of red wine, savouring the moment before the evening’s festivities. A sumptuous meal awaited us, a feast fit for kings and queens, before the night beckoned with promises of jazz and bourbon.
Nightly Nooks and Crannies
As the evening wore on, the girls retired to their chambers, weary but content from the day’s adventures. Meanwhile, Warren and I sought solace in the dimly lit embrace of the jazz bar, sipping bourbon and savouring the smooth melodies that filled the air. With each sip, the anticipation of tomorrow’s adventures grew, a whispered promise of new horizons and endless possibilities.
