After yesterday’s afternoon soaking the Captains Gala Cocktail Evening was extremely enjoyable. One of the best big group prepared meals I’ve ever had. The Beef Wellington fillet was melt in the mouth, as were the lobster tails, delicious desert and French Champagne….as you can see we cleared the table with some new Kiwi friends.

This morning an entertaining lecture about birding resulted in a rush to the back deck as we all tried our hand. It’s not something I usually photograph, but was pleased with the results. Mind you the keep rate was not good, about 20 out of 400 !

Which Albatross is that ?
Mollymawk
And another Mollymawk
Wandering Albatross
and another Wanderer, I think…..
The wing to body ratio is amazing with a 3 meter span
Storm Petrals swooping in the swell

By now the swell was starting to really build, and it was exhilarating to stand at the stern as we surfed over 5 meter swells.

It’s also down to 7 degrees, though it’s only a couple a few steps through to the lounge and all of its delights. Strawberry Pav for 2