31/8/2013 San Francisco

Once again, flying in the USA proves to be challenging.  Upon arriving at Vegas airport to fly to San Francisco our luggage was weighed on the footpath at the entrance to the airport. My suitcase was 4 lbs over the allowed weight and David's was 3 lbs.  The cost of all luggage is $25 per case on top of your ticket price and $100 extra again per case if your luggage is overweight. We had to unload our cases on the footpath and transfer items to our carry-on case to avoid paying the extra $200. It all ended up on the aircraft one way or another so seemed a little strange.

Keryn was still in San Fran when we arrived so we caught up with her for dinner at Fishermans Wharf.  It was nice to see her and she was glad to have some 'family' to hang out with even if we were the older set.  Especially at night.  It is a bit risky to be wandering around on your own in San Francisco as David found out last time we were there, when he was chased by a group of young guys outside our hotel. We made sure Keryn was safely home.

Our sail out of San Francisco was wonderful.  The America's Cup trials are on and were racing as we sailed out.  The dolphins also accompanied us for a way.  We sailed under the famous 75 year old San Francisco Bridge which has been closed since being damaged in an earthquake in 1989. It was due to re-open the following day. So we were part of its new history. 

Our ship is smaller than any other we have been on and with only 400 guests it is very friendly.  Lots of Australians.  We decided to have an Australian Party Next Sunday.  We have met some 'neighbours' from Sovereign Island and Hope Island.  David and Ken have met a couple from Paradise Point Bowls Club.  Small world.  We have our Oz flag flying on the balcony.  

This ship has just finished the Alaskan-tripn and continues on to Montreal when we leave.

The staff outnumber the guests so service is exceptional. Nothing is too much trouble.  They even make my morning cup if tea. Or any other drink we want at any time of the day or night. My kettle is on standby, but in hiding.

Our next stop  2 days at sea is Mexico so will update from there.  

Pam and David