Dawn Princess - June 2015 - Post 2

Rabaul, dusty and very hot.

The volcano on the far right was the one that erupted several years ago, devestating the town.

The mini-vans used as tourist buses back at the ship at the end of the day.

Early evening departure.

 

Because of a cyclone approaching the Solomon Islands from the east, our planned call to Honiara was cancelled, Instead, the morning after Rabaul, the ship cruised into the crater on Garove Island, and extinct volcano (marked on the map).

A lovely, sunny afternoon in the Coral Sea.

A very happy, well-fed camper, feeling right at home.

End of the cruise, back at White Bay, Sydney.

Dawn Princess - June 2015 - Post 1

I was able to book, at the last minute, the last remaining cabin on Dawn Princess' 15 night cruise from Sydney to PNG and back, departing June 23rd. As usual it was a great cruise with many familiar faces among the staff, excellent service and great food. I had my regular tables to myself and the Maitre 'D and restaurant manager provided specially prepared, off-menu Italian or Indian dishes for me most evenings. The regular menu selections were very good too. The ship was sparkling inside after her recent refurbishment in Singapore.

The bunker ship leaves just prior to departure from White Bay cruise ship terminal in Sydney harbour.

A good mate of mine from the old days, Captain Jim Dargaville is piloting us out.

Early morning fog in the Brisbane River as we arrive.

A great lunch in Brisbane with dear friends (L-R) Valerie, Charles, Kate, Brian and Rhonda.

Arrival at Alotau.

Due to the depth of water, the ship used her dynmic positioning system rather than anchoring off Kiriwina Island.

 

One of the ever obliging and cheerful Filipino bar staff.