Heading to Curaçao
We were supposed to stop in Cartagena, but because of the political situation, we went past to Curaçao.
For more than two centuries, Cartagena was the main gateway through which the Spanish Empire transported the riches of South America to Europe. Gold from Colombia and Peru, and silver from Bolivia and Mexico, all converged here before being shipped across the Atlantic in great treasure fleets. Once a year, convoys of heavily armed galleons assembled in Cartagena’s sheltered bay, loading the wealth of the New World under the watchful eyes of soldiers and merchants. To protect this fortune, Spain built an extraordinary network of fortifications—the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, towering over the city, and the sea forts of San Luis and San Fernando guarding the narrow entrance to the harbor. Together, they made Cartagena one of the most secure ports in the Americas. Control of this city meant controlling the region’s trade routes, and for centuries the Caribbean was the state for intense competition amongst the European powers. One such attempt was made by the infamous Welsh-Privateer Henry Morgan. On 2 Jan 1669, Morgan called a council of war on his flagship the Oxford to discuss the plan of attack on Cartagena. However, during the council, a single spark in the ship’s powder magazine caused an explosion which destroyed the vessel along with over 200 of its crew. Morgan and the captains seated on one side of the table were blown into the water and survived; the four captains on the other side of the table were all killed. The loss of the Oxford meant Morgan’s flotilla was too small to attempt an attack on Cartagena and the plan had to be abandoned.
Friday was a normal sea day for us. Chairobics, Trivia, and reading and grading on the balcony. We are sailing off the cost of Columbia heading to Curaçao. Tonight was another Gala Dinner. Our table mates showed up. They have not eaten in the Britannia for several days. Since this is there 350+ days on Cunard, they have lots of benefits and different dining venue options. We like the dining room.
Saturday woke up to a huge thunder and lightning storm it lasted for about three hours.
Since our departure from the Panama Canal, the ship has sailed a total distance of 489 NM with a remaining distance of 212 NM until we arrive in Curaçao tomorrow morning.
Fifteen years ago today, on Monday, 11 October 2010, Queen Elizabeth (the ship) was named in Southampton by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Queen Elizabeth is actually the third Cunard Queen of her heme: the first being RMS Queen Elizabeth, in service 1939-1968, and the second being Queen Elizabeth 2, launched in 1969 and retired in 2008. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was present at the launches of all three ships.
This morning between Chairobics and Trivia Astronaut Robert Thirst gave another compelling lecture, “Preparation for Spaceflight.” He began with a description of a launch that nearly reached orbit before having to abort, and all the things the three crew aboard had to do. When this part was over, we were told it was a simulation. We were all amazed. He then talked more on the extensive training that goes into becoming an astronaut. He is a good speaker.
Our noon report told us that we are 489 nautical miles from the Panama Canal and have 212 N.A. to go to Curaçao. We are currently 35 N.A. off the coast.
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