Captain's Table

     Fred and I received an invitation to have dinner with Captain Jeremy of our ship along with his senior officers on Sunday, February 13.  We were to meet for cocktails in the Glazer Lounge at 7:30 pm and then to dinner in the Aquamarine Dining Room at 8 pm.

     With two hours to spare, we were trying to settle on what Fred would wear to a somewhat dressy affair.  He had not brought evening attire, so he said he would wear jeans and a shirt!  When we were having cocktails in Chrissy and Joe's cabin before the event, I told them my concerns about it.  Fred had already had a drink or two, so he went back to our cabin and brought some of his possible choices back with him.  He proceeded to show his sisters, brother Joe and Phyllis this and that and pretty soon he started trying everything on!!  We were all laughing at him, which really egged him on even more.  It was hysterical!  When Fred was done, we all decided that no one would care if he wore a pair of jeans.  But we sure had fun critiqueing him.  

     When we arrived for cocktails, we had a great discussion with John, the Hotel Manager.  He told us all about the provisions that would be coming aboard while we are docked in Capetown.  He is in charge of arranging for all the food and supplies for the kitchen and dining rooms as well as housekeeping.  It was very interesting.

     Then we headed down to the dining room where we saw 4 tables all set up for us.  As we all entered, we were led to our table.  The waiter led us to the Captain's table where we were seated just on his right side!  The table arrangement looked very fancy with several forks, knives and spoons to choose from.  We were served white wine through the first three courses of appetizers, salad and soup.  We were then offered red wine with the main course or we could stay with the white.  The entrees were either South African freshwater fish or Prime Rib and the dessert was Black Forest Cake and coffee.  It was all delicious and elegantly served.  Your glass was never empty!  

      The conversation at the table was lively and entertaining.  The Captain was quite the host telling stories of his life and travels around the world.  A couple of the students at our table also kept things going by asking him lots of questions.  We all were chatting so much that we realized the other 3 tables had all been cleared away and no one remained but our table.  We were surprised so it seemed like the right time for us to go as well.  A memorable evening to say the least!

Pat