Day 8 – Trivia, Polar Bears and a Little More Magic! 🚢🐻‍❄️✨

Today was our second sea day aboard the Seabourn Encore as we made our way back towards the coast of Japan, and after the events of yesterday, I was certainly hoping for a calmer and more relaxing day.

Gaby and I started the morning with breakfast before enjoying a lovely walk around the ship. I do love being at sea, and although I enjoy exploring all the different ports, there is something special about having a whole day to enjoy the ship without having to rush anywhere.

After our walk, Gaby headed off to join the trivia competition whilst I went to check on Joe and take him for his second IV infusion, luckily it seems to be doing the trick and he seems to be on the mend.

Thankfully, he was feeling slightly better today, which was such a relief after everything he had been through over the last few days. We decided it would be good to encourage him to get out of the suite, stretch his legs a little and, most importantly, try to eat something.

So, we took him for a gentle walk around the ship before heading off in search of lunch.

We had hoped to try the Caviar and Ramen offering, but unfortunately, by the time we got there, it had all run out! Clearly, it had been rather popular.

Instead, we headed to The Restaurant, which is Seabourn's equivalent of Compass Rose on the Regent Seven Seas Navigator, where we had spent so many wonderful days during our previous world cruise.

It was lovely to be reminded of our last adventure, although, of course, we are now making a whole new collection of memories aboard a different ship.

Most importantly, it was wonderful to have Joe out of the room and joining us for lunch. It may seem like a small thing, but after the worry of the last few days, it felt like a real step in the right direction.

Meanwhile, Gaby was continuing to make the most of the ship's entertainment programme.

Her next activity was Baggo, a game that involves trying to throw beanbags into a target. She headed off to give it a go, clearly determined to get involved in as many activities as possible.

Then came the Polar Bear Plunge! 🐻‍❄️



Unfortunately, still no success for Gaby, but that certainly wasn't going to stop her from trying. I love her enthusiasm and willingness to get involved. She is definitely making the most of her time on board, whether it's the games, the entertainment or her ever-growing social calendar!

After all that activity, we decided it was time for a coffee, which we grabbed to take with us to the next port presentation.

This time, we were learning about our upcoming visits to Niigata and Akita, two more Japanese destinations that we were looking forward to discovering.



I really enjoy these presentations, as they give us a little background on the places we are visiting and help us appreciate what makes each destination unique. Japan is such a fascinating country, and I am loving the opportunity to experience so many different parts of it.

Next on our agenda was the final performance by magician Marc Spelmann.

Having thoroughly enjoyed his previous show, we were looking forward to seeing what he had in store for us this time.

Once again, he didn't disappoint! His magic was excellent, leaving us wondering how on earth he managed to perform some of his tricks. There is something wonderful about being entertained by someone who can make you question what you think you're seeing!

Before we knew it, the evening had arrived.

Of course, Gaby had another dinner invitation! I am beginning to think she has a busier social life on this ship than she does at home. She certainly seems to be enjoying every minute of it.

Meanwhile, Joe and I headed back to his favourite dining venue — yes, you've guessed it, the Sushi Restaurant!

I think we may soon qualify as regulars. But if Joe is feeling well enough to go out for dinner and enjoy something he likes, then I am more than happy to keep returning.

After dinner, Gaby and I met up again for the evening entertainment, this time featuring a band called The Trawlermen.



It was lovely to finish another sea day enjoying live music together. One of the things I particularly enjoy about cruising is having such a variety of entertainment available, with something different to experience each evening.

As we headed towards our next Japanese port, I found myself feeling much more hopeful about the days ahead.

Joe is still not back to his usual self, but seeing him walking around the ship and joining us for meals has been really encouraging. Hopefully, the worst is now behind us, and he will continue to improve.

And as for Gaby, well, between trivia, Baggo, the Polar Bear Plunge, dinner invitations and evening shows, I think she has well and truly settled into cruise life!

Another lovely day at sea, filled with entertainment, laughter and, most importantly, a little more progress for Mr C.

Japan, we're coming back for more adventures!❤️

🌿 Daily Reflection

Progress doesn't always come in big leaps. Sometimes it's the small improvements that give us the greatest reasons to be grateful.

✨ Highlight of the Day

Seeing Joe feeling well enough to walk around the ship and join us for lunch, whilst enjoying another fun-filled day at sea with Gaby.

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