We are enroute to Thursday Island. This is a tiny island where few cruise ships stop it is going to be interesting. The main history is that of pearl diving and a base during World War II for US and Australian troops. I like these out of the way small ports. Interesting to see how people live in these remote places. Arrive today at noon so will report back after our stop.

Last night the ship threw the BEST special function party I have ever seen. Over the years I have been on board from most major holidays or events such as Christmas, New Years, July 4th, Easter etc. This Halloween party though was truly outstanding. The crew decorated the Horizon lounge complete with smoke, cobwebs it really transformed the Horizon lounge. The staff really got into the spirit and had incredibly great costumes and they were really into their parts. I was really impressed with the effort made to make this a special occasion for the guests. I am sure the Australian passengers that were on board who may not have ever seen a Halloween event (not celebrated in Australia and New Zealand) were impressed.

There really are great crew members on this ship that do a wonderful job. I often hate to single out any specific person as I hate to leave out anyone that has also done a great job. However, I feel that anyone coming on board certainly can look forward to excellence from the key staff. Barry is as always a wonderful cruise director with so much warmth and humor as he carries out his duties. Barry's key staff of Dionne and Muriel make a winning combination. They are everywhere and always upbeat, smiling and giving 100%. The bar team of Rogerio and Franck have been outstanding. Our LCT party was truly outstanding and their attitude of helpfulness and desire to please is something that is really appreciated. The dining room manager Anthony who used to be the Manager of Signatures is excelling in his job as well. The Captain Jean Marie is EVERYWHERE. Always around smiling and visiting with the guests. Gudrun is a wonderful future cruise consultant we always love to see her. We have had some wonderful waiters as well during our dinners.

One of the other highlights is getting to see LCT members I already know and then meeting LCT posters that I have never met. We also met some of my regular clients for the first time that have been a real delight. I hope they will start posting soon. One couple is coming to Antarctica with us and I know they will fit in wonderfully with those already booked for that trip. People are always the highlight of a cruise. We have had some delightful dinners and tonight we are going to Signatures with Count Florida. They are changing menus tonight but I have not seen the new offerings yet.

Off to hear the lecturer now and then LUNCH always a nice event.