The Prinsendam arrived at Cap Cana yesterday but was unable to start the tendering process to the mainland. There was too much of a swell to put the tenders out. The pilot boat, when it left the harbour to come to the ship, was bobbing around like a cork so it was a good indication of the sea surface. It would have been too dangerous to offload guests onto the tenders. The pilot boat approach to the ship was abandoned and it was with regret that the captain decided to abandon anchoring and tendering. But safety comes first even though it may have upset some of the guests.
An alternative plan was made and approved by head office - that we sail south to a small island (Isla Catalina) where it would be more sheltered to drop anchor and tender guests to the shore for a beach break day. Any scheduled tours at Cap Cana were cancelled.
Passengers had the opportunity to go ashore on Isla Catalina and relax on the white sandy beaches or do a bit of snorkelling instead.
Paul sent me on a mission - to look to see if there was anyone offering scuba diving. There was one tiny kiosk offering snorkelling gear but nobody was offering or advertising scuba diving even there were scuba diving boats in the area. Paul found, on the internet, a few companies offering scuba dives but they were only on Xmas eve morning, not in the afternoon. The ship only arrived and dropped anchor around 11 am so we missed any dives on offer.
By the time I got back from the island, the captain had returned from the ship (after a brief stint ashore himself) so Paul and I got a tender to the island and spend just over an hour, swimming in the clear waters off the beach. Fish were curious and nibbled at the skin of our legs and feet. It was ticklish! But it was delightful that they were not afraid at all.
After we left Isla Catalina yesterday afternoon and set sail towards Bridgetown, Barbados, festivities of Xmas eve began. There were small parties, music and much more. Paul and I had a massage - our backs have been very sore for a while now. The masseurs were delighted to have their 'revenge' and Paul's back muscles were given a good pummelling. The lass that did my back left me feeling bruised but having said that - this morning I woke up without any back pain!
Later on we were invited for drinks in the captain's cabin and then the staff went down stairs to the showroom to entertain the passengers with their carol service. Apart from the international English version songs, the Indonesian and Filipino crew also got together and sang carols in their own language. I don't usually go to carol services but I went this time and was absolutely moved by the singing. I was touched to the bottom of my heart - more so because of the Indonesians and Filipinos efforts. They were wonderful.
After the carol service all of the singers met in one of the restaurant for nibbles and drinks. Some stayed on afterwards, others went off to midnight mass services offered on board. For me and Paul - it was time to hit the pillow. He still had to get up for work today. And it was near 2am (this morning) before we hit the pillow.Christmas Day: It's been a quiet day on board, for me, so far, keeping away from the celebrations. For other people - they have been attending organised activities, services and festivities; or relaxing.
Tomorrow is another day - hopefully this time at Bridgetown, Barbados.
