In his favorite hiding spot - checking things out.

In the Nordic Museum about his heritage.

At Juveler's - they are happy to help pick out the right piece of jewelry.

It's the most expensive piece here, on $57,500 -- Yes, she's worth it.

Neptune Entertainer's Joe, Emily, Lois, and Lewis all want Merle's autograph.

Igor is happy to serve Merle a nice single malt, Scotch Whiskey

Day 36: Meet Merle, the Viking

January 27, 2024, South Pacific Ocean ⋅ 🌬 79 °F

Gail Lee is one of the lecturers onboard the Neptune teaching felting. Felting is done from pure wool with a couple of speciality needles; with lots of poking and instruction from Gail - “Merle, the Viking” was born.

All of our Nomes and/or Vikings need a name. Why Merle? A few years back I saw a facebook post from one of my seminary professors, Dr. Merle Strege and his wife Fran went to Norway. I took one of his FB photos from the trip and photoshopped a Viking helmet on my Ethics professor. He has a pretty good sense of humor. So, Dr. Strege this is for you.

If you are wondering what people do on sea days on the Neptune, please check out the captions on each of Merle the Viking’s photos as he shows us around the ship.

Merle would especially like to thank the three ladies in “Juveler” - Celeste, from Namibia - Candice, from Capetown, South Africa - and Adele, from Nelsprint South Africa for helping him find just the right piece of jewelry for his wife.

Also shout out to Igor, his bartender, the Neptune entertainers Joe, Emily, Lois, and Lewis for helping him out today.Read more