Two sides of Kodiak Island

Diva visited the museums, which covered aspects of the lives of the native peoples, the period of Russian presence and the WW2 period when the Aleutian islands were on the front line of the war with Japan.

Intrepid TSH set off on a small boat to view the local wildlife at close quarters. The tour started off past the fish canning facilities where the smell of the activity was much in evidence. Sealions in search of an easy meal were also attracted to the location – a large group of sealions was encountered on returning to the harbour. They had gathered for the breeding season and noisy bulls were seeking to establish their superiority.

Along the way many sea otter and puffins were seen. It was said that the puffins were so full of fish that they could not fly and certainly none managed to lift themselves out of the water other than for a quick run on the surface as the boat approached them. 

At least one humpback whale was seen and was close enough to hear it blowing off.

A few bald eagles were seen but they were mostly interested in the easy pickings round the fish factory and the large fishing fleet.

Dinner with Captain Michele Macarone Palmieri, who also took them to the Norwegian fjords in June, involved a good table with other Brits and a couple of Australians. A special amuse bouche of caviar with trimmings was served, and the Captain ordered a bottle of wine from the connoisseur (ie paid for as an extra) list. TSH and Diva have never before had wine other than the included offer.

The sea is still calm but there is a lot of fog around. The captain apologised in advance in case he had to sound the horn during the night. He or the Staff Captain (his number 2) will be on the bridge in shifts throughout any period of fog.

The day at sea involved a cocktail party (at 11:30 in the morning!!) for the 30 transit guests. TSH and Diva stuck with the ginger ale. Whales appeared briefly beside the ship at dinner time.

The crew were aware that it was wedding anniversary day for TSH and Diva. They served a special dessert of excellent crepes suzettes. On return to the suite, the butler and the room attendant had decorated it with balloons, rose petals, swans made of towels and champagne on ice. A good surprise!