July 20
After four straight very active days, today was a much more laid back day. And honestly, considering how very active the day was yesterday we were very content with that. The one booked activity for today, which we were excited about was a submarine dive. At yesterday's briefing our program director, Nikki, mentioned during the briefing that with the weather forecast for rain, but especially high wind gusts, there was a distinct possibility of having to cancel the on-water activities which would mean our submarine dive would be called off. On the one hand, the few people who we have heard talk about this experience said there really wasn't anything to see in this area via the sub, so to have it cancelled would not be a big deal. But on the other hand - like most activities we are enjoying - we wanted to take a "test run" on the sub here before doing that in November while on our Antarctica adventure. Finally at about 11:15 am - about 45 minutes before our scheduled dive - Nikki came on the intercom and announced that the wind gusts were too strong and all submarine excursions were cancelled.
One lesson we've learned as we've traveled all over the place is that when travelling, you just have to "go with the flow!" And so our "excursion" for today took us to the Spa! Now, Kim is a Spa veteran and uses the steam room often (with or without a workout ahead of time). But for me it was a couple of firsts......#1 actually spending time there more than just looking in to see it; and #2 we both tried the "Snow Grotto" where snow actually falls from the ceiling to cool you down. And let me tell you, that is some C-O-L-D snow!!!!!
And because we didn't have any adventures OFF the ship I thought today would be a good day to take some photos of the ship where we've been hanging out to share. So here are some ship highlights.....
The Explorer's Lounge - it has two levels, one with a panoramic lookout over the front of the ship on the top level, and then the bottom level with the bar and several areas for seating, including a piano area where live music is usually on display in the early evening when people - like us - are having cocktails prior to the briefing on the next day's activities.
The World Cafe - this buffet style restaurant is a cut above most cruise ship buffet areas and serves as the eating spot for breakfast, lunch, and for many people their evening meal.
The Aquavit Terrace - at the far end of the World Cafe is the Aquavit Terrace. All Viking ships (river, ocean, and expedition) have this al fresco outdoor dining area. We enjoy having lunch and often coffee in the morning here. On this ship, there is also the infinity pool where you can get in the pool indoors, then swim to the outside part of the pool.
There are many areas where you can just relax, two of which are "The Library" and "The Living Room."
Sunset to end another great day.
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