We left Colchester after breakfast and travelled to Harwich with no problems, arriving at about 8.45 so with plenthy of time. The trip to Portsmouth was uneventful and, finally, we had the first sight of our floating hotel for the next two weeks. Our cabin is good, with plenty of space to hang all of our clothes. After the mandatory muster drill, we had a look around our new home - very impressive too. Bar prices are reasonable and probably cheaper than those of a UK hotel.

We met up with others from Mr Bridge and had a superb evening meal - fresh fruit, vegetarian option, mousse and coffee for me, accompanied by a large glass of red wine. Very good company and excellent service. Lesley has joined the bridge players and I am having a relaxing evening with my book. Only quibble is the cost of the Internet connection, Ho hum.

Tomorrow is at sea, so there will priobably be no entry. We are supposed to be sailing past the oil and gas paltforms and there are some very interesting lectures planned. Already having a very good time.