３rd November 2009

After breakfast we strolled into Perth city centre. It was another glorious day and we took one of the free buses to the local jetty where we went for a walk along the river front. Today was the Melbourne Cup which is THE flat race of the Australian calendar. From what we can gather the country just about comes to a halt and we certainly noticed the very full pubs and restaurants. It was also obvious that most offices take a long lunch break (due to the difference in time zones, the race is run at lunchtime in Perth) as we saw lots of catering people carrying platters of food through the business area of the city.

We had no transfers organised to the ship and after a discussion that involved taking either the ferry, bus or train we took a taxi. Embarkation was quite painless and we were checked in and on board within 45 minutes. After trying to get our bearings it was soon time for the obligatory muster exercise which took place in the blazing sun. After a bit of a rest we went on deck to watch the ship set sail; unfortunately the captain was just over an hour late setting off! Following a pre-dinner drink we went for a meal and to meet our table companions. They seem nice enough and as they all come from England at least they speak the same language.

At this point I was going to give you a description of the the ship but of the on board newsletters give much information and the brochures are at home, except that is about 90,000 tons and is called Rhapsody of the Seas. I can assure you that that it is big, however in the last couple of years there are now ships nearly twice the size.