We have had some sea days so not much to report but that we have had very good seas. We stopped in Murmansk for a "technical" call to clear the ship. I heard it took eight hours. No one could debark of course and it was interesting to see all the old ships and submarines lined up at the docks. Many need a coat of paint. Better to do it this way than when we arrive for our tours.

THen we left for our visit to Solovetsky Islands. What a sensational day we had for this excursion, brilliant sunshine, very calm seas, barely a ripple. Could not have been a more perfect day. We were in an area surrounded by small islands.

We were touring the Solovetsy Monastery that was founded in 1429. The Monastery outline was visible as we got close to the island. Some of the Monastery has scaffolding as they are in the process of restoration, but it will take a long time. This is a huge monastery complete with very thick walls, battlements and cannons for protection. It was also used as a prison mostly for political prisoners under Stalins time in the 1930's. One church had been stunningly restored with a beautiful gold altar. The tour was really interesting and we had a delightful young female guide.

A glitch at the end of the tour was that the tenders were not there to take us back to the ship. It was a huge group waiting. Finally two tenders came and both were totally full. One of the tenders was out of service as it hit a rock on entering the port area. So everything got backed up. Good thing it was a nice day!

Lunch was GOOD - I was ready. Pictures from Ken will be coming!