Bit of a Blog : Solstice : Auckland – Fremantle – Sydney : February 14th 2016

[NorbertsNiece]

Just Googled Yamagishi Eggs..... brought back memories of a chicken farm I visited as a child but in altogether different surroundings..... love the sound of Happy Eggs. Smile.

 

I'm determined to not pay full price for a specialty meal. This morning outside Oceanview the young man taking bookings offered a discount but not 50%. Was offered 50% off Murano for tomorrow night when I went for lunch earlier. Grin. Wink. No space for an emoji.

At the desk was a couple who, overhearing my request for my reservation to be formally noted as GF, said they were GI too..... so I felt empowered to tell them about the pancakes in Bistro..... they knew..... in fact they were Blu diners and appeared to have everything their hearts desired. So the phrase 'Go Blu(e)!' has an altogether different meaning here..... (I've Michigan family)

 

Have some more art.

 

This is in the Casino..... imagine that..... Bert Stern, 'The Last Sitting', 1962, 12/62. Commissioned by Vogue, the sittings for a book took place over 3 days, just 6 weeks before Marilyn Monroe died.

 

 

The ceiling of the Theatre...... I've told you.... look up!!!

 

 

 

Overlooking the library..... 'Books' an oil on canvas by Cornelius Völker

 

 

Middle daughter says if it evokes conversation it's art. My 4 year old grandson can do this..... actually his 2 year old brother can too. It's an untitled piece, pencil on paper by Gerard Traquandi.

 

 

Now I'm not sure what this is or why it is. I do know it should be removed. Sited at the entry to the Sky Lounge the image of a naked woman in chains is beyond disturbing and shouldn't be there. Just my opinion.

 

 

.

[goodycruising]

I agree about the sky lounge lady. Don't like it much either. I must say that scribble picture was one of the few that I remember! We stood there looking at it and wondering what could the purchaser of that have been thinking? So it made an impression!

[NorbertsNiece]

We've arrived in Darwin two days early but on schedule if you see what I mean. Some of the traders in the pier market were still setting up; it came as a surprise to them for us to be there out of schedule.

 

I walked in to town (there was a pay for shuttle) having been lured there by a website that claimed they could repair my phone..... they couldn't. In fact I went to three other outlets who also couldn't. I walked in in 90F / 32C then walked around the CBD. Am back on board. Way too hot out there to be doing my usual walkabout.

 

This afternoon I'm heading for a Spa treatment as they offer a discount on port days..... wonder how they will react when I wave my Elite discount coupon at them as well....

 

Darwin is steeped in history. Am on a tour tomorrow with some CC roll call friends.

 

En Route

Boarding early for the drive to Litchfield National Park down ‘the Track’ (Stuart Highway), you’ll be entertained by your Driver Guide with tales both tall and true of the history of Australia’s longest highway.

 

Batchelor

 

The gorgeous town of Batchelor is the gateway to Litchfield National Park. Up until WWII, Batchelor was a sleepy little hollow. Then it became an allied air force base and the population grew quickly. When uranium was discovered near Batchelor in 1949, the town once again grew until the mine was closed in 1963.

 

Litchfield National Park

 

Established in 1986, Litchfield National Park is a truly stunning destination. Here you can take in the splendour of thundering falls, rainforest pockets and sacred historic sites. The traditional custodians of Litchfield National Park are the Wagait people, many of whom still call the area home.

 

Termite Mounds

 

The termite mounds found at Litchfield National Park are the incredible architectural works of local termites. Complete with arches, tunnels, chimneys and nursery chambers, the mounds will leave you mystified. Listen and learn as your Driver Guide explains the difference between Cathedral and Magnetic mounds.

 

Florence Falls

 

View the spectacular double waterfalls of Florence Falls from a high vantage point before making your way down the stairs to take a dip in the gorgeous plunge pool, if you need to cool down a little. Head back up through forest and open woodland. There’s also time for an interpretive walk through the scenic bush and monsoon vine forest.

 

Buffet at Litchfield Café Lunch

 

Time for a well-earned break. As part of your tour enjoy lunch at Litchfield Café. Relax, enjoy the company of your fellow travellers and recount the morning’s adventure.

 

Wangi Falls

Ready for another swim? Wangi Falls is the most accessible of rock pools and is a perfect spot to take another dip.

Edited March 8, 2016 by NorbertsNiece

[KazLoudspeaker]

We've arrived in Darwin two days early but on schedule if you see what I mean. Some of the traders in the pier market were still setting up; it came as a surprise to them for us to be there out of schedule.

 

I walked in to town (there was a pay for shuttle) having been lured there by a website that claimed they could repair my phone..... they couldn't. In fact I went to three other outlets who also couldn't. I walked in in 90F / 32C then walked around the CBD. Am back on board. Way too hot out there to be doing my usual walkabout.

 

This afternoon I'm heading for a Spa treatment as they offer a discount on port days..... wonder how they will react when I wave my Elite discount coupon at them as well....

 

Darwin is steeped in history. Am on a tour tomorrow with some CC roll call friends.

 

En Route

Boarding early for the drive to Litchfield National Park down ‘the Track’ (Stuart Highway), you’ll be entertained by your Driver Guide with tales both tall and true of the history of Australia’s longest highway.

 

Batchelor

 

The gorgeous town of Batchelor is the gateway to Litchfield National Park. Up until WWII, Batchelor was a sleepy little hollow. Then it became an allied air force base and the population grew quickly. When uranium was discovered near Batchelor in 1949, the town once again grew until the mine was closed in 1963.

 

Litchfield National Park

 

Established in 1986, Litchfield National Park is a truly stunning destination. Here you can take in the splendour of thundering falls, rainforest pockets and sacred historic sites. The traditional custodians of Litchfield National Park are the Wagait people, many of whom still call the area home.

 

Termite Mounds

 

The termite mounds found at Litchfield National Park are the incredible architectural works of local termites. Complete with arches, tunnels, chimneys and nursery chambers, the mounds will leave you mystified. Listen and learn as your Driver Guide explains the difference between Cathedral and Magnetic mounds.

 

Florence Falls

 

View the spectacular double waterfalls of Florence Falls from a high vantage point before making your way down the stairs to take a dip in the gorgeous plunge pool, if you need to cool down a little. Head back up through forest and open woodland. There’s also time for an interpretive walk through the scenic bush and monsoon vine forest.

 

Buffet at Litchfield Café Lunch

 

Time for a well-earned break. As part of your tour enjoy lunch at Litchfield Café. Relax, enjoy the company of your fellow travellers and recount the morning’s adventure.

 

Wangi Falls

Ready for another swim? Wangi Falls is the most accessible of rock pools and is a perfect spot to take another dip.

You will absolutely love Litchfield NP! Wangi (pronounced Wongi) is a lovely watering hole, Florence Falls is also a terrific spot. Be sure to take plenty of water with you, also maybe a wet face washer in a zip lock bag to be able to put around your neck & wipe down your face while out in the humidity & heat.

 

Karyn

[I'm from Oz]

Fantastic report of what is a logistical nightmare for a ship to miss such a port. Here I was suggesting some folk on another circumnavigation learn some simple Indonesian phrases from crew members to ward off the locals on arrival. I'd be finding some phrases of sympathy for crew to let them know how hard this would be for them. :(

 

You will enjoy the visit to Litchfield - well we did - long day but lovely nonetheless. Especially the dip in the pool at the end - take care with slippery rocks though.

 

Can give you the book "Mr Stuart's Track" if you would like. No need for it once read. It's an excellent read.

 

Remember that wet flannel/towel I mentioned for Bali .... take it along in Darwin :D

[NorbertsNiece]

Karyn and Valerie (you have email btw) thanks for the tip re the wet face cloth. I just need to remember..... will leave out an aide memoire later.

 

Had an interesting conversation in the Spa about prices. Knew I would. Went back up with the Compass which stated clearly that the port day discount was applicable throughout the day and not just 9am - 1pm as they were trying to suggest. Gave me back the Elite voucher and gave me the discount as a gesture of good will.

 

It was bucketing down when I left the solarium earlier. Had a few zzzzzz by the pool and was woken by the sounds of a baby laughing..... family time.... adorable 1 year old who is toddling around the ship like he owns it.

[QE2_Fan]

We've arrived in Darwin two days early but on schedule if you see what I mean. Some of the traders in the pier market were still setting up; it came as a surprise to them for us to be there out of schedule.

 

I walked in to town (there was a pay for shuttle) having been lured there by a website that claimed they could repair my phone..... they couldn't. In fact I went to three other outlets who also couldn't. I walked in in 90F / 32C then walked around the CBD. Am back on board. Way too hot out there to be doing my usual walkabout.

 

This afternoon I'm heading for a Spa treatment as they offer a discount on port days..... wonder how they will react when I wave my Elite discount coupon at them as well....

 

Darwin is steeped in history. Am on a tour tomorrow with some CC roll call friends.

 

En Route

Boarding early for the drive to Litchfield National Park down ‘the Track’ (Stuart Highway), you’ll be entertained by your Driver Guide with tales both tall and true of the history of Australia’s longest highway.

 

Batchelor

 

The gorgeous town of Batchelor is the gateway to Litchfield National Park. Up until WWII, Batchelor was a sleepy little hollow. Then it became an allied air force base and the population grew quickly. When uranium was discovered near Batchelor in 1949, the town once again grew until the mine was closed in 1963.

 

Litchfield National Park

 

Established in 1986, Litchfield National Park is a truly stunning destination. Here you can take in the splendour of thundering falls, rainforest pockets and sacred historic sites. The traditional custodians of Litchfield National Park are the Wagait people, many of whom still call the area home.

 

Termite Mounds

 

The termite mounds found at Litchfield National Park are the incredible architectural works of local termites. Complete with arches, tunnels, chimneys and nursery chambers, the mounds will leave you mystified. Listen and learn as your Driver Guide explains the difference between Cathedral and Magnetic mounds.

 

Florence Falls

 

View the spectacular double waterfalls of Florence Falls from a high vantage point before making your way down the stairs to take a dip in the gorgeous plunge pool, if you need to cool down a little. Head back up through forest and open woodland. There’s also time for an interpretive walk through the scenic bush and monsoon vine forest.

 

Buffet at Litchfield Café Lunch

 

Time for a well-earned break. As part of your tour enjoy lunch at Litchfield Café. Relax, enjoy the company of your fellow travellers and recount the morning’s adventure.

 

Wangi Falls

Ready for another swim? Wangi Falls is the most accessible of rock pools and is a perfect spot to take another dip.

 

 

Hi Linda,

 

May I ask was this a ship tour or privately arranged? If so who with? Were you planning to do this prior to the deviation gave you extra time in Darwin?

 

We will be on Solstice visiting Darwin in October after her dry dock and would love to maximise the day to visit Lichfield. The ships tour doesn't not indicate any swimming opportunities which I think is a must after travelling so far!

 

Oh on the topic of dry dock, can any of your wonderful contacts share some insight as to what might be install for the Great White Lady? [emoji1]

 

Many thanks

Matt

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Edited March 8, 2016 by QE2_Fan

[NorbertsNiece]

Hi Linda,

 

May I ask was this a ship tour or privately arranged? If so who with? Were you planning to do this prior to the deviation gave you extra time in Darwin?

 

We will be on Solstice visiting Darwin in October after her dry dock and would love to maximise the day to visit Lichfield. The ships tour doesn't not indicate any swimming opportunities which I think is a must after travelling so far!

 

Oh on the topic of dry dock, can any of your wonderful contacts share some insight as to what might be install for the Great White Lady? [emoji1]

 

Many thanks

Matt

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

 

The tour was arranged prior to the cruise by a roll call friend. He had to reach out to them to bring the tour forward a day and start earlier as we thought sailaway was much earlier. As with previous excursions if we've had a good time I'll link to their website.

 

I tried to get some concrete info on the previous leg and posted the very little I could glean from a sit down with some very senior officers; we'll be repeating the chat this cruise.

 

Muranos tonight. Oh my goodness. The jewel in the Solstice crown. I tipped extra. Blown away completely. Nearly everything on the menu is Gluten Free already!! Including soufflé. I had two desserts..... Shane, the Canadian Exec Sous Chef came by and virtually insisted I have the crepe dessert without the crepe as well as a chocolate soufflé. The crepe dessert without the crepe was flambéed at the table. Strawberries in cognac. With ice cream. I didn't bother with the cheese course. Or rather I couldn't if I'd wanted to.... I mean I wanted to..... but couldn't..... and they gave me some petits fours to go.....

 

Ben, I'm so sorry but I walked out of the Chicco 9pm show..... there are two songs that are guaranteed to reduce me to tears and he started to sing one of them early on. Not as tough a cookie as you think eh?

 

You'd think being stationary the internet would have picked up. No such luck. Really struggling with pics right now. Have given up with the 'Daily' and will blitz once I get to Sydney.

 

Going to take a walk and see what life is like on an overnight gangway.... there were 2 gangways earlier, decks 4 and 5..... people (crew I guess) were disembarking with suitcases and similarly people were also boarding. Four huge tankers of fuel waiting to fill us up as we tied up.

[NorbertsNiece]

I've been trying to find fault..... really I have..... and they make it so difficult..... other than the toilet paper which is diabolic.... I received the 'Departing Guest' questionnaire today as to how I'm actually intending to get myself anywhere on disembarkation day..... they're charging $30 for airport transfers when there's a direct train right at the station at Circular Quay. I know a coach transfer affords a bit of extended luxury but $30pp!! And a Central Station transfer is $10.... again there is a direct train there.

[QE2_Fan]

Thanks for the quick reply Linda! I hope you have a great day and look forward to hearing (seeing!) how you get on. I did see your 'staff interview' earlier and the mention of Sushi on 5. Just curious if there is more in stall, lol we shall see!

 

So glad you enjoyed Muranos, my favorite (well ok, one of!) item there is the pointy sided bread rolls. Lashes of butter and there's my appetiser!!

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Martin and Lindsey]

Thanks for letting me know that Blondie. I see you are in Scotland.

 

Who did you book with? We haven't been told about any special deals. I have seen Americans refer to the 1,2,3 deal and just assumed that it was something for Americans only.

 

We will have to look deeper into this. Too late for this cruise. We haven't cruised with Celebrity before. Have you been able to get special deals with other cruise lines. We have used Princess and RCCL and not seemed able to have any special deals with them either.

 

It seems that when they see where we are located they say that the special deals are not applicable in the UK.

[Blondie008]

Thanks for letting me know that Blondie. I see you are in Scotland.

 

Who did you book with? We haven't been told about any special deals. I have seen Americans refer to the 1,2,3 deal and just assumed that it was something for Americans only.

 

We will have to look deeper into this. Too late for this cruise. We haven't cruised with Celebrity before. Have you been able to get special deals with other cruise lines. We have used Princess and RCCL and not seemed able to have any special deals with them either.

 

It seems that when they see where we are located they say that the special deals are not applicable in the UK.

 

 

I book via my bank (RBS) travel service - Royalties account - it gives you 10% off any deal from any company - free travel insurance - and lounge vouchers at the airport. So - I always first of all find the deal online - which I did with Celebrity - I then call RBS travel service - and they do the rest giving me 10% off the website price excluding flight taxes no discount from the tax. The account costs around £16 per month to service but if you travel even twice a year that's it paid for in insurance alone. Also - unlike high street agents - they don't charge for using a credit card - I use BA AMEX and get my AVIOS into the bargain - win win win.

SO - yes, the deal was indeed on the Celebrity Website - and I think it may well have been called 1-2-3 at the time. We booked AQ class - and got three (actually I am not sure but might be four) perks - I upgraded our drinks to premium for £113 for a week for us both.

On last years TA cruise - we got free drinks package - I know many in USA never get a free drinks package on TA cruises - so - I guess I just keep an eye every other few days and see whats going on. Royalties Travel Service is amazing - its a big perk - doesn't matter what sale Celebrity have on - they will discount it by 10% - straight up! This applies to land holidays too - we have used them for years - Sandals for example - 10% even when its their sale.

It never ever has paid me to book on the ship - always get a better deal doing it via Royalties...

I guess the answer is just to keep checking it once or twice a week - :)

I assume the affiliated bank in England may well offer the same service? Forget who is affiliated to Royal Bank of Scotland?

Edited March 8, 2016 by Blondie008

[Blondie008]

Loving the Blog NN!

We are on Solstice at the end of May - cant wait!

Wonderful pics!

What was the title on the "lady in chains" artwork? Is she actually "in chains" - wondered what the title was to see if it made any sense?

[NorbertsNiece]

Loving the Blog NN!

We are on Solstice at the end of May - cant wait!

Wonderful pics!

What was the title on the "lady in chains" artwork? Is she actually "in chains" - wondered what the title was to see if it made any sense?

 

Thank you :D

 

I have absolutely no idea what she's supposed to represent. Her hands are chained together. I'll find out. There's no plaque.

 

Had a super day today on our small group day to Litchfield Park. Got very wet. Can highly recommend the tour company, AATKings. Their website is here. We personalised the proscribed tour to suit our needs. We had a very early start and managed to see and do much. Wangi (pronounced Wong-eye) Falls was closed to swimming, and for reasons I will go into when posting the pics I didn't actually get to see them. I understand there was a multitude of bats to see there.

 

We're underway to Willis Island. Hope to post more pics tomorrow.

[KazLoudspeaker]

Water levels up. Salties in there swimming?

[emoji246] [emoji246] [emoji246] [emoji246]

 

Sent from my SM-G900I using Tapatalk

[NorbertsNiece]

Water levels up. Salties in there swimming?

[emoji246] [emoji246] [emoji246] [emoji246]

 

Sent from my SM-G900I using Tapatalk

 

Got to swim in Florence Falls. Wangi was closed to swimming as crocs a possibility I think but I never got to see the falls through a series of misadventures.... what else could there have been? Was still a lovely day even though rain stopped play as did the cafeteria at Litchfield Park.

 

There's a solo traveller lunch tomorrow.... and a singing club.

[Bagwhan]

Hi Linda,

FYI, some local Australian media coverage on CS on the decision not to go to Bali http://www.couriermail.com.au/travel/travel-news/increased-terror-threat-in-bali-blamed-for-cruise-ship-cancellation/news-story/1269d31b7982619d86198422086822ba

[KazLoudspeaker]

 

Beautiful Florence Falls.

 

Sent from my SM-G900I using Tapatalk

[NorbertsNiece]

Dinner in 'Bistro on 5'

 

 

 

Making spaghetti icecream

 

 

 

 

Edited March 9, 2016 by NorbertsNiece

[Disco Duck]

It all looks really good. Was all this gluten free?

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums mobile app

[NorbertsNiece]

I really shouldn't post pics out of sequence.... I forget what's already been shared

 

This was NOT for me ok?

 

 

Out on Deck 5 chilling

 

 

Elevator lobby art...... Deck 8

 

 

 

 

[NorbertsNiece]

It all looks really good. Was all this gluten free?

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums mobile app

 

The biscuits / cookies not. The ice cream is delicious. Am wary of chocolate toppings as they are commercially made I believe and some chocolate contains Gluten. Ask if in doubt.

[NorbertsNiece]

 

 

 

I was headed down the deck 8 corridor

 

 

Friends are serving cocktails

 

 

First towel animals I've seen since boarding

 

 

----------------------------

 

Captain Yannis just gave his daily location update. He always ends with a saying of some description. Today's is :

 

'I don't want life to imitate art, I want it to be art.'

Edited March 10, 2016 by NorbertsNiece

[NorbertsNiece]

Back in my room

 

 

 

In Oceanview they are celebrating Indonesia. Most has Gluten unfortunately.

 

 

 

 

Am happy with sushi..... ask for GF soya sauce

 

[NorbertsNiece]

Do head out to the back of Oceanview at night....

 

 

Sorry about the blur