Tuesday, October 29, 2024
After a breakfast in the Lido, we walked a mile around the Promenade. Then we spent the rest of the day in the pool or sunbathing only broken up by a late lunch in the Lido.
Our big event of the day was the Mariner Award Ceremony. People receive a medallion when they reach certain cruising milestones with Holland America. If you are a 5-star member, you get to attend these ceremonies even if you are not getting a medallion. We have attended several.
However, tonight we would not just be attending but would each be the recipient of a Silver Medallion. This Medallion signifies 300+ sailing days with Holland America. Yay!
We did think the time it was being held was kind of strange – 6:30 to 7:00 in the Crow’s Nest. Typically, the ceremony is held in the afternoon. However, the event planner has to work around the Captain’s schedule, so 6:30 it is.
Every person getting a medallion gets an official photo with the Captain and the Hotel Manager. We also took a photo with the Entertainment Director – Glenn and the Cruise and Travel Director – Kimberly.
The staff kept the wine glasses filled and the appetizers circulating. We had a very nice time chatting with a couple from the Netherlands. We’ll keep attending these ceremonies and eventually we’ll reach the Gold Medallion – 500+ sailing days.
We wore our Medallions for the rest of the evening and were greeted and thanked by every crew member that we encountered. HAL does appreciate customer loyalty.
After the Ceremony was over, we went to the main dining room for dinner. I was surprised to find a menu that is typically only offered on dressy nights. I enjoyed the lamb chops and Chuck really enjoyed the filet mignon (he already took several bites before I could get a photo).
Tonight’s show on the World Stage was “All That!” performed by the HAL Singers and Dancers and we had seen it before. We opted to play in the Casino for a while and then call it an early night.
Tomorrow: Grenada