Tuesday, April 26

It's Doini Island today and it's still raining.  I suppose it's what you should expect for the tropics but the passengers have all come for sunshine and blue seas.  Grey is not a holiday colour.  We're happy to stay on the ship and take part in whatever is organised:  Trivia (our team has won three so far), Scattegories, music and so on.  We have a couple of Ukranian girls on board playing violin and 'cello.  They're called the Inspiration String Duo and are absolutely brilliant.  Apart from their traditional instruments, they each have an electronic version - abstract design and a glorious sound.

Last night, the program listed another string duo; most people expected something similar to Inspiration so didn't bother to turn up.  Those of us who did were treated to a couple of Cook Islanders playing ukulele and keyboard.  What a delight!  They also had a couple of electronic instruments, with 8 strings as well as four and they had come a long way from The Maori Farewell.  Burl Ives would be turning in his grave.

Marilyn's having a massage while I sit in the Wheelhouse Bar with my book.  Happy Hour starts in 40 minutes, where we get a second drink for just a dollar.  It's always a bun rush and the customers use their sticks and walkers as weapons.  Best to be somewhere else.

Another island tomorrow, one the day after, then I think it's on to Rabaul.