June 12 – In the Bay of Biscay

Our ride down to Southampton yesterday was relatively quick with the only traffic we encountered near the port itself.  Check-in was smooth and we were onboard in our cabin within minutes.  We deposited our carry on bags, and as we headed out our door we found our luggage there in the companionway already.  After lunch we had just enough time to unpack before our muster drill.  I don’t know about the other stations but at ours we were among the few Americans.  It seems most passengers are from the United Kingdom and from conversations I’ve heard many have done this itinerary in prior years.

We sailed close to five o’clock (a little later than scheduled).  It was a lovely evening as we sailed down the Solent and out into the Channel.  There were lots of sailboats  around and at one point we passed a race.  After a nice dinner in Sabatinis we called it a night.  By the way, our waiter there told us that the menu in Sabatini’s will be changing in a few days.  They are eliminating the salt-crusted fish and replacing it with a grilled fish.  The veal chop will be changed for another veal entrée.  If it happens while we’re on the ship we’ll let you know any other differences.

A castle and one of the many sailboats we saw

Sailboats racing as we passed on our way to the Channel

Our voyage today through the Bay of Biscay has been incredibly calm.  There is nary a whitecap to be seen and the sky has been almost completely cloudless.  Apparently this is not the usual sea condition.  During the noon report from the bridge, the watch officer told us the Bay is known for its rough seas.  The weather gods must be smiling on us!  The temperature is a little on the cool side at around 65°.  This afternoon we played our first Scrabble game.  I lost by one point.  For me playing against Katie that’s nearly a win!  I usually get beaten by a mile.

Not much else to report at the moment.  It has been a lazy and relaxing day with another one to come tomorrow.