of laughing, fun and games. Foam went absolutely EVERYWHERE, in our shoes,
our hair, shirts and trousers. Everyone is now ready for more parties in
Hartlepool with the rest of the crews. Men in uniform beware as the Rona II
girls are out in force.
This morning started early for some with a breakfast on Shabab Oman. After a
guided tour of the Captain's quarter (which was huge compared to Rona) Oly
and Becky thoroughly enjoyed a traditional Omani breakfast followed by a
dance. The breakfast was served sitting on the floor round large plates that
had flat bread and four different dishes on that were eaten with the bread.
The tradition is that no one leaves until the dish is empty. We had a huge
challenge ahead of us as they kept filling the plate, even Oly was daunted
(takes a lot). After breakfast there was light entertainment from their
bagpipes with some dancing and lots of clapping. We sang and did the conga,
the dancing after the food was difficult, and none of us could move we were
so full. The hospitality was amazing and we were very privileged to be able
to go...A once in a lifetime experience.
Another activity that was run today was the Yresokk Boat Trip. Thirteen of
the crew attended. The boats were traditional Norwegian boats that seated
four or five, the tour guides were all local Norwegians so knew a lot about
the vicinity. The tour showed them around the surrounding area which
included seeing some spectacular scenery including forges and forestry.
Unfortunately the weather deteriorated meaning that the crew came back wet
to the bone. However they weren't bothered and were in high spirits.
While everyone was enjoying their tour of Norway others enjoyed shore leave
and cleaned the boat out. Mouldy tea bags were disposed of and graffiti
removed. The day was productive overall and everyone is feeling very relaxed
and ready to race. Tonight there are fireworks and then everyone is going to
get as much sleep as possible ready for the start tomorrow.
Dinner tonight was cooked by the after guard. They made Mexican; chicken
wraps, sauce and nachos. That went down really well with the crew. We were
then visited by Metta (another boat's liaison officer that we stole) who we
sang one of our songs to and she sang to us to say goodbye from
Kristiansand.
Next time we blog we'll be racing back to Hartlepool. Hopefully we should be
back by Wednesday although the wind isn't doing anything to help us it could
take a lot longer. Fingers crossed it doesn't, we're all looking forward to
being home, cheap booze, parties and showing the other crews some English
culture.
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