Tues- August 27th

A tradition on the Windstar cruises is to have a wonderful deck buffet one evening. Being in more blustery weather in Scotland, the buffet was set out in the very large galley… whole pig and all!

Weds- August 28th – since anchoring conditions were uncertain at Portrush today, we docked in Belfast (close to Portrush) where planned excursions could still take place. Keith and I set out on our own to explore Belfast. Belfast photos and a few thoughts below.

Belfast Cathedral (The Cathedral of St. Anne)

Street scene and city hall dome

We took an on and off bus around Belfast, and were most moved by the tour of the “troubles” area where there were numerous murals representing heroes on both sides of the troubles. The “peace wall” which separated the unionists and nationalists (Catholics) was 25 feet or so tall made of concrete, corrugated metal, and topped by razor wire ran 21 kilometers around the city – and it still stands. And most astounding was to hear that some gates still close between 6 pm and 6 am – 25 years after the Good Friday Agreement. Apparently some walls are coming down, but slowly, there are still many remaining.

Dinner at Candles Restaurant- wonderful sunset!

One of the traditions of Windstar cruises is the staff talent show. Windstar does not have the big shows of larger cruise lines- we like it that way. The talent show of the crew is always amazing and fun. This is the synchronized swimming team- use your imagination on how they perform on the stage! This is considered “the most dangerous act ever performed on the high seas during high wind and waves”. Great fun!

Thursday August 29- docked at Douglas on the Isle of Man ( a self governing British Crown dependency). We loved this island! I went on a hiking excursion along the southern coastline in Castletown- incredible sights, history and coastline!

Volcanic rock at the right- limestone that has been quarried over history. Incredible wonder!

One of our guides discussing the ruins of an early Christian church, on the same mound of land where a Viking was buried with his ship and treasures ( and wife!) so he could take them with him in to the next life.

It was an incredible hike!

After my hike, Keith and I took a short walk in to Douglas. The Bee Gees ( one of Keith’s favorite groups) are from the Isle of Man and there is a great statue of them at the waterfront. One of my guides, Helen, was walking by and she and Keith posed with the Bee Gees!

Scenes at the waterfront, including palm trees and sunken gardens.

Dinner on the last night of the cruise- with our buddy, Nanda.

August 30 – A Visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin on our way to the hotel where we were staying prior to flying out on Saturday August 31.

Had a good trip home- no delays or hassles. Thanks for coming along on our journey… Until the next time…