During the night, the ship’s movement told me that we would not be landing on Norfolk Island in the morning. They have a floating pontoon on the Island which is lowered into the water from the existing wharf – but it could not be lowered today because of the sea swell. (MEMO to P&O AUS – it is probably not a good idea to schedule port stops at Norfolk during the Southern Hemisphere Winter).
But, our Captain gave us a good close look at the Island – circling it twice before proceeding towards Nuku’alofa. One positive that has come out of this is - how many people in the World can claim to have circumnavigated Norfolk Island in a cruise ship??
Early morning arrival at Norfolk Island. Ever hopeful – we did the usual things prior to a Port stop. We arose before sun-up, had breakfast, etc- got our tender tickets early to beat the crowds – but it wasn’t to be!!! |
Was there in July myself, by flying. Some sea days were lovely, and then others were pretty wild.
ReplyDeleteThey actually had their fortnightly delivery on one such wild day and it was impressive - but scary - how their dockhands and lighter crew brought things in to the dock. There was quite a crowd watching - fortunately nothing nasty happened.
But as for the weather, it's pot luck so I think it's worthwhile for P&O to keep it on their itinerary then... Some days are great, and better to try and fail then to not try at all