Embarkation day

Saturday 20^th September 2025.

The Asuka 2 is still docked when we wake up this morning and et voila! there’s our Diamond Princess, patiently waiting. Konbini for breakfast supplies which we take back to the hotel guest lounge to eat. Much busier in there this morning, many people preparing for the cruise, no doubt. We strike up a conversation with the couple at the next table and they’re going on our cruise too. 

 

Check out time is 11am and it’s a short walk to the pier. In 45 minutes, we’re on board and a cold drink is on the way. It’s so nice to sit and relax. I can’t really say chill, because it’s still sweaty hot.Do the prerequisite muster station visit then watch the safety video in our cabin, with the Medallion class ships there’s no dodging it. The TV showed that I was the only one in the room when the video started, as Trevor had switched into Martha Stewart mode and was down in the laundry. He had to replay the video when he returned. First lunch on board at Trident Grill near the pool. 

 

I find it’s best to unpack your suitcase asap, so that was our next job. Next thing I know, it’s anchors aweigh and we’re off!! Grab the camera, hat and water bottle and race upstairs to the open deck, where we find it’s sprinkling rain. At least the sun isn’t beating down. We sail through it fairly quickly though and then we can enjoy the lovely breeze that comes with being out on the water.

There’s a couple taking selfies so I offer to take a photo for them and we get chatting. Their accent is easily identifiable as American so I tread carefully until we get to the ‘so where are you from?’ They’re from California, the best state they say. Phew, we’re on safe ground and I tell them I think their Governor, Gavin Newsom is terrific. We talk about the elephant in the room. We talk about our cancelling a cruise we were going to take in Alaska next year. They talk about their genuine concerns as to whether they’ll be allowed back in to the US after their trip. That’s a really sad state of affairs, not that it’s news. 

 

Soon it’s time for dinner and it doesn’t require going to the konbini! We’re in line for a table in the dining room when someone calls my name! I look back and it’s Robyn, a woman I’ve been chatting with on fb about the cruise and ideas for our ports. The 4 of us sit together for a very enjoyable dinner. Another day done.