Day 42 - Birds, Dolphins, Krew Kapers & Our Final Day at Sea Before Oman

This morning began with a moment of pure magic.



I woke to see birds circling near the ship, riding the strong winds with such grace and power — it was mesmerising. And then, as if on cue, a pod of dolphins appeared, swimming alongside us, weaving and diving through the waves. It was a gift of a sight, the kind that fills you with awe before you even start your day.

I headed to the gym, then up to the pool deck for my usual breakfast and veggie juice — and this time, I brought an extra juice for Joe, as he’s decided he wants to start introducing them into his mornings too.



After showering and getting ready for our final sea day before land, I made my way to the theatre for Michael Scott’s last lecture, this one all about Dubai.

Michael’s Final Lecture

He began with an amusing explanation about his tie, which somehow led into a short, thought-provoking discussion on climate change and the warming planet.

He then talked about the very birds and dolphins we had seen this morning — and of course, he had managed to take far better photos than I ever could, thanks to the captain lifting the upper-deck barriers for him so he could get the perfect shot. Michael’s enthusiasm for nature always shines through.

His talk made me rethink my Dubai excursion, so tomorrow I’ll pop by Destination Services to see if I can change to something that suits me better.

Afterwards, Joe went to listen to his favourite speaker, Dr Stuart Hendin, delivering a session on the law of armed conflict. It’s a topic Joe finds absolutely fascinating.

Library Time & A New Book

I settled into my favourite comfy spot in the library, completed my crossword and sudoku, and finally finished my book, When It Is Darkest.

My next read is Manifest by Roxie Nafousi — a much lighter, uplifting choice after the intensity of my last few books. I’m looking forward to it.



Joe and I then met for lunch at Compass Rose, and thankfully today’s menu was much more to Joe’s liking.

Afternoon Rest & Spa Time

After lunch, I caught up with a few friends on calls while Joe rested and listened to his audiobooks before heading to the spa for his treatments.

Then it was time to get ready for one of my favourite events on the ship:
Krew Kapers — the talent show performed entirely by the crew.

Once again, it was excellent, warm-hearted, joyful, and so entertaining. Their talents never cease to amaze us.

Dinner & A Very Happy Joe

We decided to dine again at Compass Rose tonight since the menu suited Joe perfectly. Although the restaurant was completely packed, they somehow managed to find us a lovely window table — a beautiful little gift in itself.



And you can tell when Joe is happy with the food: he ordered seconds of all three courses.
His standout favourite was the poached pears, which he raved about all evening.

I, on the other hand, was practically falling asleep at the table, so I decided to turn in early.

Joe, full of energy after his feast, happily headed off to watch the magician’s show for a second time, which he says is the best show he has every seen, he wants him to come to Gibraltar and do a show there. In Joe's words "absolutely brilliant!" After the Last Night of the Proms, he says this is the best show he has seen.

Looking Ahead: Oman

Joe is incredibly excited about arriving in Muscat tomorrow. We’ve been trying to work out how long it’s been since we last visited Oman — we think it must be at least 25 years ago.

It will be special to see it again with fresh eyes.

Daily Reflection:

The ocean always brings moments of wonder — birds dancing in the wind, dolphins racing the bow,
and the feeling that life is always offering something to marvel at, even on the quietest days.

Highlight of the Day:

✨ Joe’s joy at dinner and the magic show — seconds of every course and the biggest smile when he tasted the poached pears. Joe cannot stop wondering in amazement at all the amazing tricks Mark Shortland  delivered in his show and thinks he is the most loveliest guy.

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