Page 13 - 2003 - Atlantic Islands

at this first get together as our favorite expedition leader (EL), Geoff. He told us a

little of the history of the Orion itself and then familiarized us with shipboard life and

what we could expect during the voyage. Though we left late, about 6:15 PM rather

than 5 as announced, everything else seems to be on schedule. Dinner will be at 7:30

PM but we have decided that we have to start being restrained in the food

department or we will not be able to get on and off the Zodiacs.

A footnote worthy of notice is that the great liner Queen Elizabeth II afforded the

Orion a singular act of maritime courtesy. She left the harbor before Orion so the new

ship could have the benefit of the calm seas she leaves in her enormous wake.

Apparently, that is a tradition among nautical folks—to honor a new ship on her

maiden voyage.

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