Embarkation

Tuesday 28th November

Travelling is so much easier when I drive to Southampton rather than taking the train. I was all ready by 11am, my planned time, and set off. With no traffic delays, I was at the port, luggage dropped off, car delivered to the parking company (with many laughing remarks from them about the bird shit on my car and statements saying they could not promise it would all be there on my return) and heading for the terminal by 12.30.

It seemed to be a day of technology fails. My credit card failed to register in their machine. (They said that several had failed that day) and then I could not open my stateroom door (the door key had demagnetised through sitting on top of my ipad as I went through security). Both of these were fixed via a quick trip to the reception desk. Then I signed up for the wrong internet package. I have 8 free hours as a Diamond member but clicked on the platinum package for 4 free hours instead. That necessitated a couple of visits to the internet centre to fix it up. I love Cunard service – they fix up the silly mistakes that I make because I’m too tired to think clearly.

My suitcases beat me to my room. With everything packed away, it felt like home. My room is on deck 5, midships. The only problem is that the lifeboats are below me so I can see them from my room. I’m always surprised that these rooms are regarded as the second most expensive balcony rooms but I suppose it’s location, location, location. I choose my rooms very carefully now, being prepared to pay extra in order to avoid being put on deck 4 front of ship. Those rooms are terribly noisy for about an hour as you enter and leave ports – a noise that goes right through my head. I was not aware of the noise sensitivity issue associated with ME/CFS until I experienced that.

The safety drill was as boring as always, but a legal requirement.

I had been assigned a late seating for dinner, after requesting an early seating. This is one of the problems of buying a Saver fare. However, I went to the dining room shortly after embarkation and joined a queue of people waiting to change tables and times. The couples ahead of me were put on a waiting list but the Maitre D’ was certain that he could find me, as a solo traveller, a table for 6pm. He told me to turn up at that time. I did so and was assigned to a table of 10 people. They are a mixed bunch. Most of us seem to be solo travellers about my age. I sat next to a lady who seemed sweet but then made a few comments that made me aware that she is a complainer and certainly likes things done her way! I decided not to suggest she join our group in the ballroom as I could see trouble down the way.

As usual I went to the early dance session and stayed on talking while waiting for the next session. Four English Dance Hosts had joined the ship that day, three men and one lady (who can dance with either men or women). Hazel said they were an improvement on the Hosts from the cruise before! One of them was very good and a pleasure to dance with. The lady does not have the strength or balance for me to feel absolutely secure dancing with her. Three of them dance with tiny steps whereas Roy can stride out when he knows that I can cope with it.