Day Eleven – Cruising the Sounds

In the words of the song - “What a difference a day makes”. After last night’s bad weather we awoke to the relative calm of the New Zealand fjords.But before I talk of today’s sights a couple of congratulations are called for. Firstly to Robert and Jo on the birth of their daughter, yet another Grand-Daughter for Gayney and Jeff. At this rate the Jones family name will die out!!!! And secondly to the “Village People” on the occasion of their victory at the weekly quiz. I knew you could do it lads!!!!

We awoke at 7.00 just as we were entering the first of three sounds we  visited today. Milford Sound was discovered by a Welshman who named it after his favourite place, Milford Haven. Although the weather had improved the wind at the front of the ship was strong and cold. the coats that we packed due to the snow back home came into their own. The following pictures covey some of the sights but probably do not do justice to the magnificent views. 

We decided to retire to our cabin’s balcony ,where we were protected from the wind , and have breakfast. The views just kept coming, and as the morning past the sun came out

Second came, Doubtful Sound , Named by Captain Cook as he felt it was doubtful he would be able to get his ship in. Our Captain was quite confident and so was the other cruise ship we met in the sound. The  binoculars that the girls bought us for Christmas really came in handy.

The sun got hotter as the day progressed and with the shelter our balcony provided quite a sun trap, that necessitated the use of sun screen. At the entrance to Dusky Sound we spotted a pod of dolphins playing not bothering about the large cruise ship that was passing them. Once again the scenery was stunning.

Once leaving the sounds we tracked the coast of New Zealand , onward bound towards Dunedin. Tonight’s animal , for all you fans of towel craft, was an elephant.

We have requested a chicken so Oliver can compare!!!!!