Day 8 sea

Katie got back to the cabin around 3.30am this morning so she (we)
wasn't going to get much sleep before we had to be up and ready for our
behind the scenes tour at 8.30 am this morning. The tour was
fascinating, it was a group of 12, it started in the Princess Theatre
where we spoke to the Production Manager, and the lead choreographer and
her assistant. Both girls had been up late rehearsing for a new show but
had taken the time to be in full make-up/costumes to talk to us. All 3
gave a talk on what they do and how it all fits together and were happy
to answer any questions we had. We went backstage and were then shown to
the area at the front of the ship that holds the anchors and also areas
on both sides where things can be loaded on and also it holds the large
mooring cables. Then onto the galley, where again the head chef and head
of catering showed us around and explained the logistics of feeding 2000
passengers and 1000 crew. Had a break in the galley for a light
refreshment before we got to go into the different cool rooms, and they
were certainly cold! Next stop was the photo processing area followed by
the printing area, again fascinating and the crew always happy to answer
questions. Then onto the engineers area (engine room) where there was a
lot of technical talk about engines and power and stuff (think the 9 men
on the tour absorbed more then the 3 females) and also some fascinating
facts about water desalination and what happens to the waste on the ship.
We then went down to deck 1 (below the water line) to the laundry, here
was totally amazing. From the size of the washing machines, to the
machine that folds towels and the bigger machine that presses and folds
all the huge amounts of linen daily. All the restaurants use linen
napkins, so with 2000 passengers eating 3 or more times a
day..........well you get the picture on napkins alone. After the
laundry we went up to the Bridge and even though we had done the Bridge
tour a few days before it was still interesting to see it again. Last
stop was Magnums ( a lounge/bar) where the Entertainment Director, the
Chief Purser, the Hotel General Manager, the Head of Hotel operations
and the Head Chef each gave a talk and answered questions while we were
given bubbly and snacks. Sonja was our guide for the morning and she did
a good job of keeping us informed and all together.
After a nice lunch with our Crazy Cruiser group, it was time for a read
and a nap.....I then ventured to the afternoon quiz, where we again
performed dismally. After the quiz the Captain made an announcement that
due to the issues with engine number 1 (it is still not working) , while
we are still on target to get to Singapore on Sunday our itinerary will
be changed, and that they are in consultation with head office as to
compensation and the exact changes to out trip will be advised in the
next few days. As it was formal night and the fact that Katie and I only
have one formal outfit we missed dinner in the dining room , so am a bit
in the dark as to the numerous rumours and speculation that would be
circling through the passengers tonight. At this stage I have no idea
what ports we will be missing, but these things happen, so can't see any
point in getting stressed about it. Once we hear more from the Captain,
I shall post it.
We got a few presents from our tour delivered to our cabin (or stateroom
as the crew refer to them) late today including a chef's jacket, a
lovely bathrobe, some personalised stationary and a couple of group
photos that were taken at various stops this morning. The robes and
jackets are very heavy so not sure how we will get them back home yet.
We may have to post them from London!
Tomorrow and Saturday are both sea days so I may not bother posting
unless some news on the engine/change to ports is forthcoming, or the
birth happens!