Day 19

Today was a much-needed sea day — a perfect excuse to slow the pace after a few busy port stops. We lost an hour overnight due to the time zone change, which would’ve been fine if any of our devices had bothered to update themselves. But in the middle of the Mediterranean, with no signal, even your phone gives up.

This morning I decided to mix things up and have breakfast in the dining room instead of the buffet. It was a good call. Table service meant no food scrambles or long waits for specialty juice and coffee. The whole experience was smoother — and quieter — which definitely helped ease into the day.

Later, I had a bit of a moment back in the cabin. After everything that happened in Budapest when Ted lost his wedding ring, I glanced at my own hand and noticed mine was missing. Cue a full search: under the bed, through drawers, even inside the safe. About half an hour later, I found it — on my right hand. Safe to say it was not my sharpest hour.

I also tackled some laundry today since the laundry room is just across the hall. But timing is everything — I left my bag next to a machine while I went to get a token, and when I turned around, an older gentleman had already taken it. He was quick. Luckily, I didn’t have to wait long for the next one, but let’s just say ship laundry is a contact sport.

Most of the day was spent trying to relax, though this ship doesn’t exactly have quiet corners. Unlike some previous cruises, there’s no real library or chill-out lounge. The Hollywood Pool area feels like a meat locker, the bars are too loud, and even our balcony isn’t ideal thanks to chatty neighbours who love a cigarette. Reading in peace? Easier said than done.

We went for afternoon drinks at Bellini’s and caught up with the friendly group of American flight attendants we’d met on night one. Nicholas and Kuamane joined us shortly after, and although we’d originally planned to try one of the specialty restaurants for dinner, we ended up joining them at Crown Grill instead. While it wasn’t covered by our package and required dipping into our onboard credit, the company made up for it. Food options were a bit limited for me as a vegetarian, but it was still a nice night out.

After dinner, we caught another show in the theatre — this time, Fantastic Journey. Think drones, LED suits, soaring vocals, and enough production value to rival a Vegas residency. Definitely a high-tech spectacle and a fun way to cap off a relaxed day.

We didn’t stay out too late — Chania, Crete awaits in the morning.Meer informatie