Daily stops in South African ports are part of the world cruise scenario, as passengers are not just aboard to enjoy 6-star comfort in opulent surroundings, but also to see the attractions of the countries the Crystal Symphony visits. Port Elizabeth was the stopover for Addo Elephant Park and other local private game reserves, and we were already docked before morning tea arrived with a knock on the door. Buses and private tour vehicles were on the quay, and the gangplank, red carpet and spotless white canopy providing shade for the officials had been set up for those needing an early start.
Preferring to stay aboard, being a local with unlimited opportunities for tourism at home, a working morning ensued, followed by a leisurely lunch and an afternoon nap in preparation for a late night at play.
Exercise to counteract the effects of dining room indulgences consisted of using the stairs to get from the 5th floor to the 11th floor, both up and down, and a few laps around the Promenade deck in the early morning or late evening. I never quite managed to locate the gym, where I would have used the rowing machine in preparation for a possible 'abandon ship' call and the need to row long distances - kidding of course, but rowing is a favourite exercise among the gym equipment. I am pleased to report that the stairs did the trick and no extra weight went home with me.
After the safari-isti returned, exhausted and exhilarated by the abundant game viewing that was on offer, and with many a tale to tell, the gangplank was hauled in, red carpet rolled up and stowed and the soft, billowing drapes of the canopy taken, no doubt, to the ship's well-used laundry, the captain once again set the bow-thrusters in motion and we slipped away from the port into a thankfully smooth sea. (FYI: a beautiful, highly varnished box awaits returnees under the canopy, from which a smartly uniformed crewman plucks warm, damp towelettes for each passenger to wipe the dirt of the day from their hands and faces before embarking. Such attention to detail!)
The Starlite Lounge was a favourite place, with revolving armchairs arranged around occasional tables to accommodate different activities - small social groups in circles, forward-facing for the daily lectures, or just a comfortable place to sit after dinner and enjoy the very talented dance band and high-energy dance troupe who provided something new every evening. Dance ambassadors are in attendance - gentlemen who are accomplished at ballroom and Latin dancing and are on board to ensure that no single lady wishing to dance is without a partner. After a few days, we thawed out enough to join everyone on the dance floor and I must say it is very easy to dance with someone who knows how to lead! In rough seas, much laughter ensued as everyone would suddenly find themselves in a bunch on one side of the floor and then returning to the other side with the next roll!
There were always the same women dancing each evening, and it was rather sad to hear their stories as to why they were alone. Money does not always bring what the heart desires. However, they were always beautifully dressed and so there is some compensation.
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