Bridget's Blog - Orion Expedition Cruises Day 10 & 11

 

Orion Expedition Cruises - Broome to Darwin

Day10 & 11

Another day at sea, so another leisurely start. Today was the first day that there had been clouds in the sky – it has been clear blue up to now. It wasn’t the nasty grey ones though, more like the fluffy white. Paul was still not feeling completely at ease, so had just a light breakfast. The first lecture this morning was with Mick entitled “Captain Courageous” and was about the sinking of the SS Koolama in 1942. Paul decided to sit this one out – maybe a good idea! It was very interesting though – as the ship actually still sits in the dock area in Wyndham, where we had been yesterday. It was sunk by the Japanese, and the story revolved around the Captain, Jack Eggleston. There was one picture in the presentation with our Captain and an elderly lady by the commemoration plaque in Calamity Cove, where most of the passengers were evacuated to. It turns out that this lady was the daughter of Captain Jack Eggleston, and so the Orion made a detour to stop off in Calamity Cove as she had not been there. The rescue of these people was down in no small part to two aboriginal runners, that alerted the authorities in Darwin where the ship was. They ran over 120 kilometres over the Kimberley land in two days, which is amazing. I remember that the driver we had in Wyndham had said that his grandfather was one of the two runners that rescued passengers of the ship – now I know what a grand feat it was.




It was a bit of frivolity after that – we had the “Orion Cup” horse race. We had initially five “horses” – Clothes Horse (Ricky the waiter), Manila Maiden (Cat from reception) One Hung Low (Harry) and Too Phar Gone (Brad). Heinkickin (Anja) was disqualified after a blood test proved too many cocktails in the sample!



The horses had to be auctioned first – there was no shortage of people who paid up to $150 for each horse. Then we could put a $10 bet on which horse we thought would win. Each horse was allocated either a heart, diamond, club or spade, and then the cards were drawn. The first one to 13 was the winner – and it was mine. I won $30. Paul still hadn’t ventured indoors – he felt it was safer on deck. He also missed out on the champagne that flowed to celebrate all the winners!



After lunch, we had another lecture entitled “Why aren’t there Monkeys in Australia” which was a really interesting biography on Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace, who I had never heard of. It was he that discovered and recorded many of the species that had been attributed to Darwin. Both of them British, and Wallace being a descendant of William Wallace of Scotland. Fancy coming to Australia to learn about your own history!



Then, crepes suzette on the deck. How can you resist? They were delicious.



We had a final recap in the Leda Lounge this evening on the whole cruise – it has gone so quickly. It seems only yesterday that we were being welcomed on board with champagne. We had a compilation of photos from every day of the trip – all put to music – and the bonus is that we will all be given one when we leave the ship tomorrow. Perhaps I can pass some of those wildlife shots as my own? Maybe not! Dinner was again exquisite – maybe we will have to go to Serge’s restaurant in Sydney to see how it compares! Back to the packing, one bag to leave in Darwin and one bag to take for three nights to Bamarru. See how that goes then!

Day 11

What a difference to other cruise ships on disembarkation day. Everything is really calm, nobody is hustling you to get out, and everything was available normally. Except that the breakfast was in the main restaurant and not up on deck – the outdoor café has been turned into a “hard hat” area where all the cases are being taken and the crane taking them onto the dock. This all happens whilst we are peacefully having our breakfast.




We are doing our own thing once we get off – there are several transfers to various hotels, but as we are catching a plane at 3.00pm we can leave our luggage in a secure area here and just have a leisurely stroll around Darwin. After saying goodbye to all the staff – and the captain is at the bottom of the gangway – we are given our DVD by Anya and then stroll along the waterfront for the ten minute walk up into the main esplanade area. It is absolutely pristine and beautiful. The grass is all cut neatly, and the flowers are lovely. There is a promenade walkway about 100 metres above the sea along the front, which is beautiful.

 Courtesy of Bridget: www.bridgetsblogtravelstop.blogspot.co.uk

Bridget's Blog - Orion Expedition Cruises Day 9

 Orion Expedition Cruises - Broome to Darwin

Day9

Today is the first of two days at sea. For reasons of a political nature, since 2010 Orion has to clear immigration internationally. This means that the nearest place to do this is Com in East Timor, but means a day travelling to there and a day travelling back. Should be some good R & R though!



No slacking to start with – the first lecture of the day is at 9.30am with Mick, which is on the history of Australia called “Footprints on a Forgotten Land”. As most of the guests are Australian, I was surprised at how many were in the theatre – it was virtually full. It may be the way that Mick presents as well, as he is so knowledgeable, needs no notes, and very slick in his delivery. And I learnt some history that I was unaware of – I thought it was Great Britain that found Australia and colonised it. The Spanish and the Portuguese and the Dutch had all been there before us – but never actually laid claim to it. It was only when James Cook landed, he claimed it as part of the British Colonies. We didn’t come out of it as such baddies as I thought we would!


After a short spell on the sunbed with the kindle, the Bridge was opened up for an hour for all who wanted to visit. The Captain was at the helm, and he actually entertained everyone for nearly two hours with his stories and explanations of how things worked. This was a really informal chat, with stories of breaking ice, near misses and polar bears. What a lovely man he is – no standing on ceremony, no feeling of grandeur, just a good natured, normal gentleman. He had everyone hanging on his every word.


After lunch, there were various activities throughout the afternoon, but I passed as this was really the first day that we have been able to unwind. And doesn’t doing nothing make you tired!



There was one more lecture in the afternoon that I went to – Paul elected to give it a miss. Again, it was really interesting. It was about the history of East Timor – the place that we are going to get to at 3.00am tomorrow morning. By the way, we will only be docking for an hour – just enough time to get the paperwork done. Anyone that wants to get off can do – but most certainly wasn’t encouraged to do so. You are only allowed on the jetty, if you go off your shoes have to be sanitised before getting back on board, and they really did their best to make you not put your name on the sign up sheet. I don’t think anyone is going to bother. Harry put together a presentation called “East Timor; The Declassified Truth” and it was quite shocking. I can remember an event ten years or so back when East Timor hit the news in the UK, but couldn’t really remember what for.



It has had a very violent past, and really hasn’t had any time of stability. Between the Indonesians, the Portuguese, the Military and the Police there has been war and killings for the past 300 years or so. Even as recent as ten years ago, there was a genocide where a third of the population were killed. A third of the population have been driven over the border into West Timor, which leaves just a third of the people there should be – 50% of them under fifteen. They had elections in April 2012, and so hopefully the new president will help to educate the young people to allow them to become self sufficient. They are a fairly rich nation because of oil and gas income, but have no core of skilled people to get the country on its feet. A very sad story.



The ship is certainly swaying a lot more on the open seas – I actually had to lean against the wall in the shower to wash my hair, otherwise I would have toppled over. Walking down the corridor in a straight line is not an option – must be better for you to travel twice as far to get to the same place! Paul is now regretting deciding to come with me I think – he is not a good traveller. Oh well – he can’t get off! He had one course only for dinner – that won’t do him any harm. I didn’t – I had it all. Will take more than that to put me off my food!

Courtesy of Bridget: www.bridgetsblogtravelstop.blogspot.co.uk

Bridget's Blog - Orion Expedition Cruises Day 8

 Orion Expedition Cruises - Broome to Darwin

Day8

Today started rather sedately with breakfast a la carte in the restaurant. We were the only two in there – everybody else had had theirs up on deck, but we were too late as it finished at 9.00am, and now it was 9.15am. Not a problem – nothing is a problem on this ship.




We boarded the bus at 10.00am to drive to Kununurra, where we were going to pick up our scenic flight over the Bungle Bungles. We had a choice here today – either a flight or a cruise up the River Ord . Both looked unmissable, but we had to choose one, so the Bungle Bungles it was. The bus driver had verbal diarrhoea. He knew everything about everything, and continued for nearly an hour telling us all about the route we were travelling on. Stories like how they used to get camel trains to take supplies to the men who were working the mines. The camel trains were owned by muslims, who would not transport anything pig. The miners liked their tinned pork, and were not happy when they didn’t get it. So, all the labels were taken off, and relabelled tinned cheese. This was no problem – until one day one load fell off, some of the tins split open, and then all hell broke loose. The place where that happened is now called Tinned Cheese Creek. How do you know when you’re being led up the garden path??



We were given a packed lunch bag when leaving the ship. When we arrived in Kununurra, we went to a place called Celebrity Tree Park to eat our lunch. Several celebrities, when visiting the town, were asked to plant trees here, and each one has a plaque to say what it is, when it was planted and who planted it. Australian celebrities I think – didn’t recognise any of the names of the few that I looked at. We had to eat quickly – it seemed like we had only just finished breakfast. Oh yes – so we had! Most of it went back in the bag. What a waste.



We then drove the five minutes to the airport. As we went in we were all weighed – didn’t like to look at this stage of the cruise! This was to allocate the correct weight in each aircraft. We were called, and had to follow our pilot onto the runway, and go through a quick safety check. Not quite like BA first class! We boarded our twelve seater aircraft – I had already decided that the back seats looked the best to take pictures from, as it didn’t have the wing obstructing it. Paul pointed out that he had never been on a plane as small as this – I pointed out that it had only got one engine so our travel insurance probably wouldn’t cover us if there was an accident. It was a Cessner Caravan – I am reading a book at the moment that is about a cessner. I pointed out to Paul that, as I had discovered from this book, that it sits very low at the tail so the pilot can’t see out of the windscreen until he is airborne. I said he would have to weave out to the runway, so that he could see if there was anything in his way out of the side windows. I think this might have been where it all started to go wrong.



We whizzed down the runway, and there were birds just sitting at the side watching us take off. Better than being in the way I suppose. We got airborne, and after a few wobbles and dips and dives the camera got some good shots. I then noticed Paul wasn’t taking any photographs. I asked why this was – “I am not happy”. He spent most of the flight hanging on to the steps that had been tucked in just in front of him, and pouring water over his head, as the pilot had suggested if you feel queasy. Oh dear – he should have chosen the river cruise!



It was a fantastic experience. We were up in the air over two hours (the longest two hours of my life, from you know who!) and it was so good. We started off from Kununurra, and flew south over the Kununurra Diversion Dam that helps irrigation in the area. We flew over Lake Argyle, which is approximately 27 times the size of Sydney Harbour. There is over ninety islands in the lake – some looking like countries like New Zealand and Italy. We then flew over the Bow River diamond mine, which is now shut. We flew over a couple of “small” cattle stations – around 400,000 acres each. The biggest ones in the Kimberly are over one billion acres.

Wouldn’t like to rustle cattle up on them! Apparently, because of the terrain, they are herded by four wheel drives or even helicopters. Not like Hugh Jackman in “Australia” which was filmed in and around here, who did it on horseback.



We then flew on to the Purnululu National Park, which houses the Bungle Bungles, a spectacular landform of striking beehive dome-shaped sandstone towers and breathtaking gorges. It was formed some 360 million years ago, but only discovered and named in 1983. The most striking are those in the south, where the weather has eroded more of the “topping” so that the distinctive tiger striped rocks are on the outside. It has always had cultural significance to the aboriginals, but before it was discovered it was “only a heap of rocks that you flew over to get to Halls Creek”. The pilot very kindly kept banking steeply to the left, and then steeply to the right so that both sides could get good pictures. I kept feeling a flick of water every now and then. I was really thirsty, but didn’t feel able to ask for a sip! I felt it had a more immediate necessary use.



We then flew over the Argyle Diamond Mine on the way back to Wyndham Airport. Amazingly, this is the biggest diamond mine in the world. I thought they were in South Africa? They produce over thirty million carats every year, and about one quarter of the world’s natural diamond production. Perhaps we should drop in for some samples! It is the primary source of the rare pink diamond. They are shipped to Perth, where they are prepared for international sale by Rio Tinto Diamonds – the majority are exported to India. On the way back from here, we could see several forest fires below – it is very hot and very dry and the moment.



“Ten minutes to landing” says the pilot. “Thank god for that” says Paul. I somehow think today hasn’t been his favourite. As we bank round to land at the airstrip, there is a little kangaroo on the grass at the side just watching us go past. How bizarre. Everyone gets off the plane and says what a wonderful flight it was. Paul needs a couple more minutes to get some colour back in his cheeks!



The other two planes come in to land behind us – and one person had been sick on her flight. Well done Paul for feeling bad, but not making all the others in the plane feel worse!



It is only a short trip back to the ship. There is a shuttle going up to the Five Rivers Lookout Point, so I decide to hop on and get a few more photographs. Paul went to lie down in a darkened room. We had an aboriginal driver that took us up there, and was full of stories about the area. He told us how the producer of “Australia” had met with the aboriginals and asked to film on their land. They were welcomed in, as they were working with the aboriginals, and he had stories about meeting Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman. Hmm… He was very entertaining though. The lookout point was nice, but after what we had just seen was definitely a “couple of photos and go” place. The sun was going down, and the ship was meant to have sailed fifteen minutes ago. Whoops!



Not a problem – what did I say? Nothing is a problem. They waited for us, and I took a few more shots of a bird or two along the dock. I like taking birds. Paul came to find me – he thought the ship was sailing without me. No such luck!! We had a couple of glasses of wine on the deck, and chatted whilst we were sailing out and darkness came.



We were invited on a table of twelve for dinner on the deck tonight – they can seat around thirty people out there and anyone can book. It was a most entertaining table – stories that perhaps will not go in the blog! After dinner, the crew gave their own show. It was really entertaining, especially as we have got to know many of the crew on first name terms. They may not make Las Vegas, but charisma and enthusiasm they certainly do have. From magic shows to John Travolta’s Stayin Alive to In the Navy and Frank Sinatra, they kept us mesmorised for an hour or so. What a day!

Courtesy of Bridget: www.bridgetsblogtravelstop.blogspot.co.uk

Bridget's Blog - Orion Expedition Cruises Day 7

 

 Orion Expedition Cruises - Broome to Darwin

Day7

We had an early morning call at 5.50am this morning – it is getting worse! We were due in the zodiacs this morning a 6.30am – but a full breakfast was waiting for us on deck if we needed it. Not enough time – although some did. We are going to climb the King George Falls this morning. It is a fairly hard climb – 80 metres up, in about 160 metres, so one to one. We had to choose yesterday whether we wanted to do the hike to the falls, and surprisingly 32 of the guests had signed up for this mornings hike. I honestly thought that it would have a maximum of around ten guests. But, so I thought, at least I wouldn’t be the slowest!




The zodiac journey over the falls was about an hour. We saw an osprey high up on the top of the rocks, and a heron on the side near the bank. As we moved into the mouth of the river, the gorge soared high above us on both sides. The sun was shining down on the sandstone, and made it look alive. When the six boats got to the end of the river, there were two dead end gorges, each having a waterfall flowing from top to bottom. There was another ship, the True North, that had passed us along the way and was already at the falls. This is a very sleek yacht with a helicopter on the back. The zodiacs pulled up at what looked like a load of rubble, and we all got off. Oh my god! As I looked up, I could see that it was as hard as they had made out. Rather by luck than judgement, Lubo, the Chief Engineer, was in our zodiac. He hopped out, and was with me all the way with that magnificent grip pulling me from one rock to another. Paul was helping also – and yes, you have guessed it – I was the slowest one. There was one gentleman of 78 years old that was at the top before me! It was single file, and no overtaking, but I don’t think that would have made any difference. If I hadn’t had help, and lots of it, I would have really struggled to get to the top. Some of the boulders were four feet tall – some sturdy, some wobbly, some smooth, some sharp. I was very glad when I reached the top. Until I realised that I had to get down again. Oh well, enjoy the view in the meantime. No point worrying about that until it is imminent!



The flat plateau at the top was filled with little rivers and waterfalls and water holes for swimming. It was delightful. We walked all along one side, and crossed the top where the rivers come to meet at the waterfall. I don’t know where all the water was coming from that was gushing down the side of the gorge – there was no fast flowing river up here, only a gentle stream. We walked along the edge, and could look back at the waterfalls – Mick had climbed down about twenty feet and was taking pictures from a very weird angle. There was a beautiful rainbow in the spray of the water – I bet he knows that that is the best spot to get the full colours of the rainbow. Mine will look very wishy washy – I expect to see a full rainbow in glorious technicolor in the photo recap of the day tonight!



We had around an hour and a half up there – Paul went for a swim in the water hole, but I had not brought my swimming things, so just sat on a rock and surveyed the whole area. Beautiful. The helicopter from “True North” came and landed a couple of times bringing people from the boat to the top of the falls. Bet it doesn’t make them as grateful to be there getting a lift like that! We had a group photograph taken at the top – I will sit and study that when I get home – and it will hopefully encourage me to lose weight and go to the gym when I look at all the old people that showed me up!



Now I need to worry – time to go back down! Going down, we were ably informed, is much harder than going up. Great. Is that helicopter still there? Do you think they take American Express? No – swallow hard and onwards. A great guy called John led the way of our party – he was very good at finding a good route down. Paul followed, and helped balance me no end – Max was behind, so between them I should be safe! I apologised to all the older people I was holding up – but none of them seemed to mind. What lovely people! It took longer getting down that going up – and it was really hard on the knees. I used my bottom a great deal! Boy, was I glad when the river level was the same level as me. Safe and sound – no slips, no cuts, no bruises. Easy peasy!



We got back in the zodiacs, hot sweaty and tired. We turned in the direction of the falls to go and get a better look. In a hidden corner just by the falls was the Orion flag and umbrella on a zodiac – serving Mimosas and ham and cheese croissants. How do they get it so right? It was perfect. The champagne flowed – it felt rather surreal drinking and eating in a zodiac underneath a waterfall. A couple of tenders from another boat, the “Discovery One” came over and started taking photographs. Their tour obviously doesn’t have the “extras”! They did look rather envious.



“OK” said Mick in the next zodiac. “Pass everything over here that you don’t want to get wet – you’re going under the falls!”. Hmm – camera bag went over, as did the life jackets. Why are we sending the life jackets over, I thought. Then I remembered that they were the sort that self inflated when they got wet. Perhaps we were going to get a little more than a spray? Better take shoes and socks off then. Paul took off his tee shirt – but as I had only got normal clothes with me, they all had to stay on. I did pass over my hat and sunglasses, just to be on the safe side. And I am glad I did. We passed not behind the falls, not just in front of the falls, but right underneath them. The force of the water on my head was like a quadruple power shower. Then we backed out – phew. No – let’s go back in again shall we? No choice. In we went again. My god – did I sign up for this? Thank god I sent as much as I did in the other boat – it would have been swimming in this one. There was about four inches of water in the bottom of the boat. We weren’t special – all of the boats got the same treatment. Some more than others. Mick was a little sadistic with his lot – they went under about four times! Oh well, I have seen the falls from all angles now.



We set off back to the ship after that, and it didn’t take long for the top half to dry off. The shorts and underwear were ringing wet all the way home. Not sure where all the water in the boat went though – after we set off it all disappeared. Perhaps there is some sort of one way valve that lets water out but not back in? Whatever, we didn’t sink. Thankfully! We saw a cormorant on the way home that had dived into the water for it’s lunch and now sat on a rock. It apparently cannot fly when it has wet wings, so has to wait for them to dry off before it can go anywhere. Hope there’s not a crocodile round the corner!



The wind had got up a bit then, and the way back was a bit choppy. Not a real problem though – it had been an exhilarating morning. And lunch was in full swing when we got back. Just needed to get out of those wet clothes though! I was even thanked when I got back on board for leading a very slow and safe procession from the top to the bottom – at least they weren’t cross!



An afternoon of leisure – what a treat. A sunbed and a kindle, and I am only on my second book. What on earth is going on?? Tonight there was an Aussie barbeque on deck – a whole suckling pig, huge prawns on skewers, barramundi, veal etc etc. The wind had got up, so the boat was pitching a bit, but after a few glasses of wine I don’t think anyone noticed. We then had a rendition of “Waltzing Matilda” by the Manila Male Voice Choir – aka the restaurant waiters. Surreal!

Courtesy of Bridget: www.bridgetsblogtravelstop.blogspot.co.uk

Bridget's Blog - Orion Expedition Cruises Day 6

 

 Orion Expedition Cruises - Broome to Darwin

Day6

A comparative lie in this morning – our zodiac out to Jar Island didn’t leave until 9.45am. We had anchored in Vansittart Bay, which is quite close to Truscott Air Base, which was operational during the Second World War. There was quite a breeze this morning, so it made our transfer a little bumpy – and not only were my boots hanging precariously over the sea, they were getting full of spray from the boat. Paul’s were fine inside his back pack! We arrived on the beach, changed into our boots and made out way up across some fantastic rock formations. The main reason for coming to Jar Island is the Rock Art. Here, it is in a different style from the Wandjina that we had already seen. The first “gallery” we came to was relatively easy to get to. Some of us went up to the second “gallery”, which was a little harder. You needed to be a little bit flexible to squeeze through rocks, climb up, duck under and scramble around. The cave at the top was full of art. The figures were more stick like, and harder to see on the rock. Unlike the Wandjina that repaint the lines, these are thought to have been there for thousands of years, untouched. The style of art is called Gwion Gwion, after a bird that the aboriginal people thought created the art, or Bradshaw Art, after Joseph Bradshaw that was the first European person to record it in 1891.




There are several different types of art, from stick figures to figures with adornments on their arms and heads, and animals and scenes that could be battle scenes. Because none of them have been repainted, it is very hard to date them. The best guess has come from a chap called Graham Walsh who discovered a Bradshaw Painting covered by a fossilized wasp nest. Scientists removed the nest, and by a carbon dating method discovered it to be over 17,000 years old. That was the nest – the painting was obviously older than that, but as there is no pigment left on the rock surface from the whatever made the painting it is impossible to do. I can imagine sitting up in the rocks doing paintings. It is away from either the searing heat of the sun, or the deluge of the monsoon. It is so peaceful up there (apart from when a boat load of people descend on it). I bet the reasons the aboriginals painted were not so different as to why people paint today!



We then went down from the second gallery, and took a detour on the way back to the beach to a third spot. This had only been found a few months ago, as was a small cave system. Some of the best pictures were taken whilst laying on one’s back – until I saw how many ants were running around down there! What I had, I had. What I didn’t, I wasn’t going to get! Another gloriously sunny day, not a cloud in the sky. How used to this weather can you get? The walk back to the beach and then into the zodiacs took us nicely back to the boat in time for a lecture by Mick Fogg on “Stories in Stone”. This explained, as much as they know, as to how the art came to be. There is still so much to be found out there – new research was stopped at the end of the last century as it appeared that some of it was deemed racially against the aboriginal people and became a bit sensitive. The government stopped giving grants, and so research stopped. A couple of years ago a new initiative in the Kimberley has given funding to a university, and so hopefully more of this art will be found, and maybe some answers to so far unanswered questions will be sought.



Enough of all that intellectual stuff – lunch is ready! On the way out of the lecture theatre I looked at the fantastic wildlife photographs that are framed on the walls – all taken by Mick Fogg, our expedition leader! Wow, what talent that man has! Not having much connection to the internet (the $30 for an hour doesn’t go far when it takes fifteen minutes to upload a picture!) I really miss google. I could be looking up all sorts of things that we have seen and done, but will have to wait until we get back on inhabited dry land and find a McDonalds with a free wifi connection. I have had no phone signal either – like going back to the good old days!



Lunch was good out on the deck, and in the meantime we were repositioning a few miles for this afternoons trip. On the zodiacs again, this time to go to the crash site of an old C-53 transport aircraft. After landing on the beach, we headed up the sand dunes and across some bush. When we got to the top, we could see a lake like shape of mud, with a few rocks sticking up. “It’s quicker to go straight across than go round” says Max – “It’s not that muddy”. It actually wasn’t. I imagined it to be like the mud you get in England, where you can actually get your boots sucked into it and the mud comes up over the top. But this was quite firm. There was a small film of water over the top, but the mud underneath held our weight, and we didn’t sink at all. Once we were in a few metres, we could see hundreds of holes, and bright pink and blue crabs were scuttling about all over – as soon as we got near they shot down their holes. Got a few pictures of one or two though! When we got to the other side, a few more yards and the plane came into view.



Apparently, the plane was on course from Brisbane to Broome, but missed by several hundred miles. As it came back to find Broome, there was not enough fuel on board so they had to look for somewhere to land. They saw the mud flats, and decided to land there. The trees and scrubs took out a wing, caught the engine on fire, but all crew landed without injury. It took a few days for them to be found, but they were rescued eventually. The plane has been there ever since, and is still in the same state as it was when it landed. After a fairly good look round, we made our way back across the mud flats again, and over the sand dunes. Back to the little umbrella, and cold pineapple juice! This is the sort of expedition I like! The beach here was beautiful, it went for miles both ways, and the rocks made it so interesting. My pictures, I am sure, are not going to do these places any justice – they never do!



We got back on the zodiacs – and this time Paul’s boots were hanging over the edge of the sea and mine were safely tucked away inside. Result! Afternoon tea awaited us on our return – just had to have a little, it would be rude not to!



When we went to the Leda Lounge for our photographic recap of the day, I realised that the mud plains had, in fact, been full of water when the first couple of groups went over. I thought they were empty all the time! Not only that, the tide had covered around 50 metres of beach from one trip to another. The difference in the water levels wherever we have been in incredible. We had dinner this evening with a couple of guys that have joined the ship because their company is thinking of chartering it for a few tours. They are American, and their company puts together tours for the National Geographic. Hmm – think there might be a plan coming together…. Had six courses tonight, so plenty of time to think about it!

Courtesy of Bridget: www.bridgetsblogtravelstop.blogspot.co.uk

Bridget's Blog - Orion Expedition Cruises Day 5

 

 Orion Expedition Cruises - Broome to Darwin

Day5

 We had another early morning call at 6.00am to leave on the early zodiacs. It had been quite rough at some point during the night – I could remember the ship seemed to be going up and down rather a lot – didn’t keep me awake so it might have been a dream! Paul said he felt it too, so it wasn’t a dream. This is rather a small vessel, so I am sure it doesn’t take much to make it bounce around. We were warned it could be chilly at this time of the morning, but to us it was like a summer’s day! We left Orion for a trip up the Hunter River, and then into Porosus Creek. As we left the ship, the tide was coming in to the river, and the wind was blowing the opposite way, which made it a bit choppy. That didn’t last long though, it soon calmed down. We had Max as a guide again today, and he soon spotted feet tracks on a sandy bank, which meant a crocodile had not long passed that way.




We soon spied a small one on the bank – although to me it looked just like a rock. The tide was coming in really quickly, so within a few minutes the water was up to the “rock” and it swum away. We just moved a few hundred yards around the corner, and then spied a larger one just swimming in the rocks. It was not in a hurry to move, so we were able to track it for quite a long time. We were hoping that it was going to climb up onto the beach, but it had other ideas, and swum into the rocks. As we turned left into Porosus Creek, so named after the Crocodylus porosus, we hoped for lots more crocodiles. Instead, we found the skies to be the best place to point the camera. We saw osprey, and sea eagles, and wedge eagles all soaring gracefully above our heads. I even got a few pictures that were just about in focus! Hurrah! As we turned off the engine and just floated on the creek, it was so peaceful. The birds were singing, but because of all the mangroves either side not one of them could be seen. Paul then spotted another crocodile – he has got a name for himself, as we are known as the crocodile spotters, and “we want them in our boat!”. It went under as soon as he saw us, and never surfaced again. Obviously the chap that named the creek had a lot more luck at seeing them than we did. Just as we were on our way back, we spotted a nest in the trees. It was a brahmany kite nest, and there were two birds in it. One in the nest, and one perched just above it. The one in the nest sat very happily as we snapped away at it – the other spread its wings and flew right into the sun, so I didn’t get a chance to take its photograph. Never mind – I got a few good ones when it was in the tree. Time to go back, and we headed full speed out of the creek.



Just as we rounded the corner to get into Hunter River, we spied another zodiac with the umbrella and flag. We pulled up, and Gabor was serving cornettos. How much more bizarre can this get? Gabor is the Hungarian Maitre d’ – and is most charismatic and hard working maitre d’ I have ever come across. Who else would park up a zodiac with a freezer box for a few dozen guests whizzing by?



Breakfast was finished when we got back to the ship just before 10.00am, but then I don’t know if I fancy breakfast after a chocolate cornetto. Breakfast might have finished, but they were then laying out morning tea – sandwiches and soup. Oh well, that will do then!



After a couple of hours, it was time for our excursion to Mitchell Falls. This was one that we chose to go on – and at $495 each it had better be good. Paul was bullied into going – he could have taken it or left it. I should have taken me and left him – it would have been half price then! We got on the zodiac to go the short way to the beach on Naturalist Island, where the helicopter was to land. We got a few metres from the shore and then stopped – we were waiting for the helicopter to come in. One of the crew, Kevin, produced an umbrella to sit under to keep the sun off. What will they think of next? The helicopter came in, and we had a four seater all to ourselves. The pilot, who was called Will and seemed very similar to my Will, (full of youthful energy and mischief) sat up front, and Paul and I had the back seats. We may have had seats, but we had no doors. It was completely open. We strapped in, and put the headphones on. “Press the black button to speak” said Will. Paul asked what the red button did which was next to the black button. “Ejector seat” said Will. What did I say – just like my Will! We took off, and effortlessly rose into the air. As we had a wet landing, the helicopter had sand in from our feet. “They don’t mind about that” we were told. “As there are no doors they fly sidewards for a bit to tip it all out.” Can’t wait! We followed the Hunter River for a bit, and saw Porosus Creek that we had gone up this morning in the zodiacs. We looked into the water trying to find shadows of crocodiles, but couldn’t see any. Got some amazing pictures from up there. I did lean out a bit to try to get a better shot, and the wind would have blown me away had I not been strapped in – it was so strong. Lovely and cool though! We took about twenty minutes to travel over the acres and acres of land full of rocks, trees and not much else. No wonder this area is only accessible by sea.

We landed at Mitchell Falls, and made our way over the plateau to a beautiful large swimming hole. No crocs here – or so they say! Several people were already swimming, but we took the hike to the look out points instead. Look out point number one was fairly easy to get to. It was ten minutes over fairly large rocks, that were quite flat and easy to walk on most of the time. From here, three of the four waterfalls were in view. Look out point number two was a different matter. “Go as far as you think you can, then go further” were the instructions. What sort of instruction is that? We did, and then went further and further. This involved scrambling over rocks, scrambling round rocks, jumping down and climbing up. But the view was worth it. From here, you could see all four falls at once. Out of the gushing spray at the bottom one there appeared a rainbow – which made it look magical.



After taking several pictures, we made our way back up to the top, and then hopped in the helicopter for the return journey. Anya, one of the marine biologists from the ship, rode shotgun next to the pilot, as we were the last people to leave. Apparently, there is lots of Wandjina art in the rocks all over the Kimberley. Hikers sometimes stumble on it, much of it isn’t documented. I suspect that there is much, much more as the aboriginal people have lived in this area for hundreds of years.



After another very scenic flight back to Naturalist Island, the zodiac is waiting to take us back to the ship – and afternoon tea! What another lovely day! At the recap tonight we saw another set of amazing photographs that Mick had taken on the trips out today. His wildlife photography is something else – so clear and he knows all the birds, what they do, where they go and anything else that anyone asks. He truly is a master at his job! At 6.00pm we set sail for Vansittart Bay, which is to be our first stop tomorrow. An early night, after another exceptional dinner of course, was the order of the day. This expedition lark is wearing me out!

Courtesy of Bridget: www.bridgetsblogtravelstop.blogspot.co.uk

Bridget's Blog - Orion Expedition Cruises Day 4

 

 Orion Expedition Cruises - Broome to Darwin

Day3

This morning was a leisurely start – we had to be on the zodiacs at 10.15am. We had a ten minute transfer to our first wet landing – having to get out of the zodiacs into the sea, and then walk up to the beach. Consequently, we had to wear shoes that were suitable for water, and then take footwear that was suitable for our hike this morning. We were anchored off Raft Point this morning, and somebody said it was like Sydney Harbour – there was another boat there as well! I somehow think Sydney Harbour may be a little busier. The other boat was the Coral Princess, and catamaran type cruise vessel, which left very shortly before we were ready to board the zodiacs.




Paul put his boots in his backpack, but tied mine most precariously on the outside – they were hanging over the sea all the way! As we came up to the beach, the little shelter had been erected again, and had good supplies of water, sun cream, insect repellent and towels to dry your feet on – they think of everything. This is an expedition without having to think for yourself! After adorning the hiking boots, we were introduced to some of the Wandjina tribe that were there to escort us to their Aboriginal Art Gallery. We were all given two fingers of ochre on each cheek – made me think of the SAS, although looking at our fellow guests I think that was where the likeness ended! We had to then hike up to a saddle of rock that forms the art gallery. It was about 45 minutes uphill, and was quite steep in places – but there were members of staff at every dodgy point to help. Orion really do make sure that even those with less mobility have every chance of joining the expeditions if they so wish.



The views from the trail on the way up are staggering. Near the top, the overhang can be seen. One of the elders of the tribe, Donny Woolandooja, was at the top to meet us and to give us an explanation of the art. The figures that had been painted here had been there for many, many years, and his father Sam Woolandooja had repainted them in 1971. They had been originally painted many years before, around 150 I think. Apparently, the elder of the tribe does this to keep the tradition going. He spoke excellent English, and had quite a sense of humour. He said there were other galleries not far from here, around five hours walk. His not far and mine are two different things. He also said that he doesn’t go far when it is as cold as this – bearing in mind it is about 29 degrees, and everyone is sweating buckets after the exertion of climbing up the gallery, I thought he was joking. But no, to him it is cold. The figures painted in here are mostly on the ceiling, as that is where they want their spirit to go when they die. Wandjina figures are some of the most visually striking of all images in Kimberley art. Wandjina are usually painted as full length or head and shoulders, either standing or lying horizontally. Their large mouthless faces feature enormous black eyes flanking a beak like nose. The head is usually surrounded by a band with outward radiating lines. Elaborate head dresses are both the hair of the Wandjinas and the clouds. Long lines coming out from the hair are the feathers which Wandjinas wore and the lightning which they control. Wandjina ceremonies to ensure the timely beginning of the monsoon wet season and sufficient rainfall are held during December and January, following which the rains usually begin. It is absolutely fascinating.

The journey back down is almost as difficult as the journey up – but it was worth the effort. When we get back down to the beach, the Wanjina have set a fire with lots of smoke. Everyone has to walk through the smoke, as it is supposed to give you health and make everything right. Perhaps I had better walk through several times! There was a little tent with paintings for sale – I had brought my credit card just in case (they may be Aboriginal but they know how to take money!) but to Paul’s delight they had started to pack up by the time we got there.



In the zodiac on the way back to the boat Paul spies a huge bird of prey circling overhead. I took several pictures – all out of focus! One day I will get it right! We get back, and the lunch on deck is Japanese. A quick snooze in the sunbed on Deck 6, and it is time for the next zodiac adventure. We had moved a few miles along the coast during lunch, to anchor closer to Montgomery Reef.



This time, the padded benches are not in the zodiacs, as they are going to take eight people per boat. The seats on the side are not that bad – in actual fact I think I prefer them. We zoom off towards Montgomery Reef. After we had been going about ten minutes we all pull up around Mick’s zodiac – he had pulled a huge venomous sea snake out of the water, and was showing everyone. If it had bitten him, he would have had around eight minutes before he died! “Don’t tell my wife” he says – obviously she knows what he is like! We then go on, to clear blue sea everywhere. The tide here is about ten metres between low and high tide. Harry says that earlier that morning, Orion could have quite easily sailed over this spot. Before our eyes, the sea seemed to be lifting out of the water. It was an optical illusion – the sea wasn’t lifting out of the water, rather than the tide was going out and the sea was cascading off the reef. As the minutes went on, some places were gushing like white water rafting. There is something like so many million gallons of sea coming off the reef every minute – I can’t remember exactly. The reef is 400 square kilometers, so is absolutely huge – not pretty coral though, more mud like!



There is a gap in the reef, that leaves a river that we all travel up. The reef is becoming bigger and bigger, and in some places it is like waterfalls coming off. There are turtles that keep popping their heads up, and egrets that are landing on the reef looking for food. The reef appearing like that is absolutely amazing, and apparently does not happen like that anywhere else in the world. As we start to travel back, there is a huge sandbank appearing before us. Paul looks, and says “I think someone is having a picnic on there”. As we get level with it, there is the Orion staff with trays full of Mai Tais for everyone. They have set up their umbrella and flag, and all the zodiacs land for cocktails on the sandbank! Amazing!



As we travel back to the ship, there is the most amazing sunset, with blues, pinks, oranges and reds all over the sky. What a lovely end to the trip.



When we get back on board, it is a quick shower and change ready for the recap on the day, and the briefing on tomorrow’s itinerary. In the recap, Max asks if anyone saw the meteor that went across the sky last night. Apparently it was seen all over the world, and hit the headlines in the newspapers. Perhaps it wasn’t the mad Irish Captain after all!



After singing Land of Hope & Glory in tribute to the Queen (we missed the whole thing that was shown live on the TV’s as we were still in the zodiacs, but apparently it rained) we had a Diamond Jubilee Dinner in celebration. That is good enough for me!

Courtesy of Bridget: www.bridgetsblogtravelstop.blogspot.co.uk

Bridget's Blog - Orion Expedition Cruises Day 3

 Orion Expedition Cruises - Broome to Darwin

Day3

This morning we had an early morning alarm call at 6.00am. Some holiday! We are anchored in Talbot Bay today, which is located within the King Leopold Mobile Zone. Again we see the effect of the colliding of the Kimberley land mass with the Australian land mass having created the most stunning scenery all along this coast. The zodiacs are due out at 6.45am, so that we get the full benefit of the tides going through a natural phenomena called Horizontal Waterfalls. The water is at its fastest in the middle point of a low and high tide – which is at around 9.30am this morning.



After a quick cup of coffee, we get on the zodiacs and start our trip around to an area called Cyclone Bay. The rock formations are all around – and the tide marks on the rocks show that we are around three metres from the high tide. The tides in this area are about the third biggest in the world – around ten metres. After travelling half an hour or so in beautiful calm waters, we get up close to the sheer face of the rocks, around 50 metres straight up. About twenty metres up, in a little cave overhang in the rocks, we find a rock wallaby. We are really lucky to see one at this time of day, as they are nocturnal creatures. They are medium sized animals, and live in the rocks in the shelter that the caves in the rocks provide, usually only coming out into the surrounding terrain at night to feed. They live in colonies, and are very territorial. They don’t usually travel any further than two kilometres from the caves that they have deemed their home. After posing for pictures for a good ten minutes – plenty of time to get one in focus, but it seems that my camera was more intent in getting the rocks to the side of it more in focus than the wallaby. One of the shots has a very clear nose though! Then we see two more – result! They are scampering up the sheer face of the rocks – well perhaps if I looked more closely it wouldn’t be a sheer face. I am sure there is something for their feet to cling on to!


We then travel around the bay, and in and out of little inlets that are perfectly calm, and then parts where the tide is coming in and the water is swirling around, causing vortexes in the water. I imagined the Pirates of the Caribbean film where the Black Pearl was swirled around and taken under in a large vortex – but it didn’t happen! “This is good crocodile country” says Max – the marine biologist that is driving our zodiac. They normally come out of the water and lay on the muddy banks at low tide to warm their bodies up in the sun. Nothing! No crocodiles sunning themselves today. We hear Harry (another Marine Biologist driving one of the other zodiacs) come over the radio saying nothing here today. Just after we heard that, Paul spots a croc swimming in the water on the right hand side. I actually manage to get a couple of good shots of it! It’s eyes came out of the water first, then it’s whole head, they the first part of its body, and then another part. It could only have been around twenty metres from the zodiac. It was probably about four to five metres long – I don’t think his whole tail came out of the water. Max got on the radio, and the other boats came zooming up. Mr Croc obviously wasn’t happy at being the centre of attention, as he went under the water and wasn’t seen again. “Yeah, yeah” says Harry “Sure you saw a crocodile!”. Yes we did, and I have the pictures to prove it!


We then made our way to the part of Talbot Bay that is the site of the Horizontal Waterfalls. The effect of the waterfalls is created by the rapid tidal fall on the ocean side of gaps in the sandstone cliffs. Waters on the inland side of the gaps cannot escape fast enough, and so a “horizontal waterfall” is created by the cascades, with water levels differing by a several metres on either side of the gaps. It flows both ways, depending on whether the tide is going in or out. The gaps have been made over millions of years by geological movement, with the rocks turned vertical and then the once layers of softer siltstone eroded away leaving gaps in the harder layers of rock. The main gap is about fourteen metres wide, and as the tide is coming in the water is pushed faster and faster through the gap, and the white foam of the water is more and more. We cannot go through the gap on the zodiacs, as the water is so fast that the engine would not be strong enough to get us back out again at this point in the tide. There is another gap further on beyond this one, but we are only able to see it from a distance from here.


There is a fast boat that takes passengers that does go through the gap at high speeds – we could have gone on this later this afternoon, but we weren’t quick enough to sign up for it so it was already full. We saw it with other passengers on go through several times, so I think that was good enough and it saved us $75 each! That is what I am telling myself anyway. There have been several sea planes land whilst we have been on the bay. These bring tourists from as far as Broome to go on to the fast boat. Apparently, a couple of young brothers live on a houseboat in the bay who own the two fast boats, and do trips several times a day for six months of the year – during the winter months as we are in now. During the summer it is too hot, humid and wet. We also see their pontoon which has a hammock and a sofa and not much else. Very peaceful place to live – no neighbours to complain about the noise!


We get back to Orion at around 9.30am – just in time for breakfast. What an exhilarating morning. Now it is time for relaxation after that early morning start. Too much relaxation – I fell asleep and missed lunch! Not too bothered though – I can do with missing a few meals. The announcement that there was to be a lecture in the Cosmos Theatre by Mick Fogg, the expedition leader, on the Kimberley Region woke me up – glad it did too! It was really interesting – slightly above my intellectual level. Far above it in fact. But absolutely fascinating. I hope I can remember all of it when I come home. We also found out that if we had been on Mick’s boat, we would have seen him arm wrestle a snake out of the water. Mick Fogg – no, it must be Mick Dundee!


Afternoon tea is then served – and very welcome it is too for those of us that missed lunch! Brie and grape sandwiches – delicious. Who would have thought of putting those two together? After a quick shower, the sail away was at 5pm – and there was a fantastic sunset at the front end of the ship, whilst the full moon was rising at the back of the ship. Wow – what photo opportunities!


There was then a lecture in the Cosmos Theatre by Harry on the Wandjina Rock Art called “Spirits in the Clouds”. This was all about the Aboriginal People in this part of the country, and what it means to them. It was really interesting, and gave us an insight into what we are going to see tomorrow.

There then was an announcement over the tannoy that the moon was in partial eclipse – so I had to grab the camera and go and take a few hundred more photos (that is an exaggeration, but not much!).


We then went into the Leda Lounge for a recap on what we had all seen today, and yesterday, and they showed photos of all the wildlife that we had seen, (or not!) along with photos of the whole day in one way or another. My crocodile photograph was displayed – Max had came and asked if he could have it on a memory stick, but I didn’t know what for. It was announced that this crocodile has been christened Bridget – don’t know what to think of that!


We then had a seafood barbeque on the deck outside. All the tables were laid, and the array of seafood was phenomenal! Prawns the size of a small lobster, snapper, trout, clams, Moreton Bay Bugs (lobster to you and me) crab, oysters, mussels and much more. And so tasty – everything was from the sea and not specifically farmed – and boy could you taste the difference. The weather was so warm as well – a lovely evening to sit outside. All the staff had their Caribbean shirts on – it was a really lovely evening. We found out that there was another couple of “foreigners” on the ship as well – from New Zealand. That makes six of us that are not Australian! There was a huge shooting star that went right across the back of the ship. “No it isn’t” said Paul. That was far too close to earth, and not a bit like a shooting star. The Captain is Irish, so I think he was having a bit of a game with everyone sitting on the back of the boat eating dinner. It still got some people fooled though! Me included if Paul hadn’t put me right.

Courtesy of Bridget: www.bridgetsblogtravelstop.blogspot.co.uk 

Bridget's Blog - Orion Expedition Cruises Day 2

Orion Expedition Cruises - Broome to Darwin

Day2

This morning we awoke to another beautiful clear blue sky. Whether or not the sea had been rough in the night I do not know, as I slept soundly. We were still on the way at 8.00am – due to drop anchor at around 9.00am. Breakfast was up on the deck in the outside café. There was plenty of shade, but how lovely to eat in the fresh air. It was so warm, even at that time in the morning. There was someone manning the egg station – so I was happy! Why is it that I love omelettes when I am on holiday, but never fancy them when I am at home? One of the little oddities of life. The array of fresh fruit, yoghurt, cereals and hot food was fabulous. And what a setting!



At 9.30am we had a briefing for the three or four optional trips that we could book during the holiday, and if we wanted to go fishing. They also briefly covered what it involved getting in and out of zodiacs, which tours needed a little bit more mobility than others, and a very short overview of the route we are to take over the next few days. We had to take our zodiac life jackets, so that we knew how to put them on and off (seemed very straightforward, but some had trouble!). After that, it was a mid morning coffee before changing into swimming gear and heading for the zodiacs.



We had anchored in waters called Yampi Sound. We were just off Koolan Island, which is known for its iron ore mine. There is a tagboard by where we get into the zodiacs, as and you go past you have change your room number from blue (which means you are onboard) to white (which means you are not). No electronic means of knowing where you are here! Also, they did say that they wouldn’t sail away with any whites on the board. Unlike other cruise ships, where if you miss it, it is your hard luck! Just before you get on the zodiac, there is a little table with sunscreen, insect repellent and water – they think of everything! We hopped, very safely, into the zodiacs, and set off for Crocodile Creek. Getting in and out (so far) was a piece of cake. There are two people to help you off the ship and into the zodiac, and one in the zodiac to point you in the direction of where you are to sit. On the short trips like this one (about fifteen minutes) it takes around ten people maximum all sitting on the rubber sides. The sea was a little choppy, but nothing much. As soon as we had left open water and gone into the inlet it was really calm, so we speeded up. The layered sandstone cliffs had amazing buckling and folding formations, which is evidence of millions of years of geological forces.



After about fifteen minutes we came to the end of the inlet, where there were stone steps hewn out of the rock. Again, with all the people helping getting out was a doddle – at least I didn’t see anyone fall in! We walked up the steps, and this beautiful waterfall and water hole came into view. It is called Crocodile Creek, although it defies its name as it is crocodile free (allegedly!). This is because of the several vertical embankments that presumably the crocodiles can’t manage. As we walked up the rocks to where the water hole opened up, there was a little shelter put up where we were served marguerita’s – complete with salt and lime. Wow!



We went for a half an hour swim in the water hole – it was quite cold when we went in, but absolutely beautiful once you were in. Some people climbed the rocks near the waterfall, and some even jumped in from the top! When we got out, we were told that there was fresh water on the top that made it cold, but the salt water underneath kept it warm. There are fairly varying tides in this part of the world, and had already been told that the window for getting in and out of the creek was between 11.30am and 2.00pm. We were then told that at high tide, the sea flows into the water hole. Which means the crocodiles could flow into the water hole….. I hope they count everyone back in! Sitting in the sun, drinking my marguerita, I look up above the shelter, and see a lady doing massages. Had I had too many? No, they have brought a portable massage table with them, and are giving massages.



At around 1.45pm we make our way back to the last zodiac going back to the ship. The sea is so calm this time, no waves at all. When we get back on board there is a lovely smell of lunch. Lunch is again served in the outside café – and there is such a selection. Soup, salad, fresh pasta, lasagne and lots of lovely puddings and ice cream. Oh no – why can’t it be horrible for once? I opted for the lasagne, and it was the nicest lasagne I have ever eaten. I did have salad with it – so I suppose it was half healthy! Then I had mango ice cream, which definitely wasn’t!



After an hour or so rest, we then got the lifejackets on again to go on a one and a half hour zodiac tour to Nares Point and round by the mine on Koolan Island. Just before we got into the zodiacs, which now had padded benches in them, (how much more pampering can we take?) taking a maximum of six people, we saw some bottle nosed dolphins swimming off the side. Once we were all in, we pointed the boat at where they were, and stayed for around half an hour just watching them going in and out of the water. I have got a lot of pictures full of blue sea with only a little black dot of a fin on. I know what they were! We then went to look close up at the sandstone formations. Apparently, the Kimberley, several million years ago, was not attached to Australia. As it got closer and closer and then eventually collided – in a very slow fashion - the sandstone folded and buckled, and it is this pattern you can now see. Even though the sandstone is pure white, it looks red on the outside as it has so much iron ore in that when it hits air it oxidises and goes rusty (I think!). There is a beach here, where apparantly the miners go on their days off – there was a little blue tent erected at the back. “Is it safe to swim here?” someone asks. “99.99% it is, but I wouldn’t” was the answer. I wonder if the miners do? As we round Nares Point the mine comes into view, and you can hear the machinery taking the iron ore out. They are apparently mining at around 80 metres below sea level, and hope to go double that. There is a barrier wall that is keeping the water out – I wouldn’t like to be anywhere near that if it breaches!



The sun is due to set at 5.19pm, and it is getting near to that time, so we make our way back to the ship. There are some stunning sunsets here. The moon also looks a lot bigger than at home – it is a full moon tomorrow. This is also the time when the mosquitoes come out in force, so I agree it is time to go! We are greeted with lovely cold mango juice when we get back on – how thoughtful is that? Then we watch as the cranes on the back lift up all the zodiacs that have been very busy all day.



It is the Captain’s cocktail party tonight – I am just hoping that people aren’t going to be dressing too posh. As I had to pack for five weeks in one suitcase, there were some things that just didn’t come! No problem, people were in allsorts. The champagne flowed freely (as I am becoming accustomed to) at the cocktail party, and we met another lovely couple from Australia. Are there any people on this boat that are not nice? We sat with them at the Captains dinner, and also an American couple joined us. I think we were the only two couples that didn’t have an Australian passport, so they informed us! The dinner, yet again, was excellent. Another four course taster menu that was delicious. I think I might have to stop somewhere to buy a bigger size clothes somewhere in the middle of this five week holiday!

Courtesy of Bridget: www.bridgetsblogtravelstop.blogspot.co.uk

Bridget's Blog - Orion Expedition Cruises Day 1

Orion Expedition Cruises - Broome to Darwin

Day 1

After a full 12 hours sleep in a lovely comfortable bed, I wake feeling fully refreshed. The bed was really comfortable, and when I opened the balcony doors there was a clear blue sky to greet me – what perfect weather.


The room was actually very nice – a really nice size with everything you could need. A good shower, plenty of toiletries, and lovely fluffy towels. We walked to the Sunset Bar & Grill, which is where the breakfast was served. It was buffet style, and not too bad. The staff were fairly cheerful, which was a good sign. I got an omelette made to order, but there were several types of eggs all ready done on the buffet. Eggs Benedict, scrambled and poached – all getting cold and very overdone in the large terrines. Why do people not realise there is only one way to get good eggs – cook them fresh!



The rest of the buffet, although fairly extensive, was also fairly cold. And I am not talking about the yoghurt! For someone not as fussy as me this would be fine. For me, it was very mediocre. We sat outside in the sun, overlooking the lawns and then further on to the sea (although you couldn’t actually see it) so it was a very pleasant setting. Oh well, at least we were only here for one night.



After packing all the cases, and checking out, I asked the receptionist if the bags could be looked after, and if they were secure. “Yes” she said. “They will be kept in the locked porters room.” So I left my hand luggage with my passport and money in as well as the case. We went to sit by the pool for an hour or two, and had a very relaxing morning. One, and only one, really good thing this hotel did was as we were sitting by the pool they brought over a large jug of iced water and two glasses. Never had that before, but what a really good idea.



At 1pm we thought we would make a move, and went to the concierge for him to order us a taxi. “It will be here in ten minutes” he says. When we asked him to get our bags, he showed us a line of luggage outside the reception doors. All of our bags were there – money and passports and all. Luckily. Why do people have to give you the wrong information. With the right information you can make an informed decision – with the wrong information you could lose all your worldly goods! After forty five minutes waiting for the taxi that should have taken ten minutes, I spy three ladies getting into a taxi with Orion tags on their luggage. It looks a fairly large taxi, so I asked if we could join them. Not a problem, and we all have a really good chat for the twenty or so minutes it takes to get to the Pearl Luggers Museum, where we were to meet for the Orion check in. $15 each party for the taxi, which was not bad at all. Apparently, the biggest horse race of the year was taking place in Broome today, so there was a distinct lack of taxis around. Excuse accepted!



When we got to the Museum, there were others milling around, and some Orion staff to take our luggage. I nipped down the road to buy a hat. I was going to get one before I left home, but ran out of time. That’s why I was ready on time – I hadn’t done all I needed to do! The heat is so intense here, that it probably is a good idea even if I do look a bit of a plonker. After checking in (filling in all the insurance info etc on the tickets beforehand, that they didn’t even take) and leaving our passports with the staff here, we were shown on a bus to take us to the port. “G’day again” says the bus driver. It was the same chap that had dropped us off in the taxi. He was probably the only one on duty to do work other than take people to the races!



We drove about fifteen minutes to the Port of Broome, and then came up against shut gates. After five or so minutes of wrangling with the chap that had the keys (who looked a bit like the wild man of Borneo!) he decided that there was something he didn’t like so he went back in his hut and the gates stayed firmly shut. We could see the ship from where we sat (it looked tiny, hardly showed above the jetty) but just couldn’t get to it! The driver got on the phone to his boss, and shouted at the man to come and have a word with him on the phone. He came out of his hut again, and after a short heated exchange went back in and came out with a wad of papers that the driver had to fill in and sign. The he opened the gates. Strange. There was only one ship on the road where we were going, we must have been expected, and it was an official Broome Transportation Bus. Perhaps he felt like being a dictator today!



We arrived at the ship side, got off the bus, and went up some steps into our teeny weeny home for the next ten nights. It might be teeny weeny, but it is really lovely – like a large yacht. The cabin is lovely, and we had champagne (again) and sandwiches in the Leda Lounge. We then had a really extensive lifeboat drill – even to the extent that they showed us how to put the lifejackets on (normal) then how to hold them down with one hand and pinch your nose with the other if you have to jump into the water (not normal!). And to get to a deck as near as possible to the water before jumping in. The life jackets will keep us afloat for up to six days, apparently. Hmm – do they know something I don’t. Paul mentioned to the chap standing next to him that he thought the Chief Engineer was Italian, who don’t do life boat drills. “I’m not” he said from about twenty five yards away – he might not be, but he has damn good hearing!



We went back to the cabin, quickly unpacked, and then there was a sail away party on the deck. Somewhat different to the last few cruises I have been on, the deck was a really small space, but the champagne flowed freely. And we were afforded a beautiful sunset as we sailed away. Lovely.



A quick shower, and then we had a briefing in the Leda Lounge. The various expedition leaders and a few of the main staff introduced themselves, and gave us an idea of what was going to happen tomorrow. Zodiacs and swim holes featured – as did the story of a member of staff on one of their competitor’s ships being eaten by a crocodile about five weeks ago. They assured us that they send an advance party two hours prior to us arriving, with chickens and carcasses to make sure there are no crocodiles. I somehow think that is a bit of an exaggeration… They said there were 87 guests and 74 staff on this cruise – lets see if there are the same number for dinner tomorrow night!



Dinner was at 7.30pm with a “Degustation Menu” which roughly translated is a taster menu. If there was anything on there that you didn’t like, there was a whole page of alternative choices. As usual, I liked everything so had it as it was – and it was delicious. It featured scallops, barramundi, lamb and pannacotta (all on separate courses!). It was open seating, and we sat with a couple that originated from the UK that had been in Sydney for twenty odd years, and a Scottish couple that had been in Brisbane for forty odd years. How bizarre – but what lovely people they are. Everyone we have met so far has been so friendly. At 10.30pm we made our way back to the cabin, as I feel tomorrow is going to be a busy day!

Courtesy of Bridget: www.bridgetsblogtravelstop.blogspot.co.uk