Departing the port town of Wyndham after sundown yesterday, the National Geographic Orion set sail for the blue water of the Timor Sea and now makes its way to Com in East Timor to complete its scheduled technical stop. Today the ship breathes a breath of relaxation following an action-packed schedule since leaving Broome all those days ago. For those inclined, the program allows for a slow introduction to the day with a full buffet brunch available to midday, while earlier risers take in the atmosphere of peaceful early morning ocean vistas aboard a quiet ship.
The relaxed pace does not mean that there is a shortage of engaging activities, however. Lectures morning and afternoon provide guests an opportunity to learn and share knowledge with the naturalists on board. Stimulating discussions are produced on some of the challenges being experienced by the Earth’s oceans in the face of a rapidly changing climate and later an historical account of events surrounding the World War II S.S. Koolama shipping incident on the Kimberley coast. A special screening by National Geographic filmmaker, David Wright, of his documentary “Rainbow Serpent,” seeks to peer into the central themes of Aboriginal rainbow serpent creation stories across Australia whilst providing stunning imagery and insights into the ecology of some of the most interesting snake species that may have contributed to them. We are also tantalised by the wonders of the world from on board various other Lindblad-National Geographic expeditions through the photographic imagery and commentary of naturalist and certified photo instructor, Ralph Lee Hopkins.
There is also opportunity to tour the bridge of the National Geographic Orion and hear first-hand from Captain Vincent Taillard how such a modern ship is equipped to operate into the hazardous locations that are inherent to the expeditions it undertakes. Executive chef, Rannie Nedtran, finds the time to provide guests an insight into how the National Geographic Orion’s galley is able to produce a never-ending supply of gastronomic delights, a topic of keen interest to us all.
Meanwhile amongst today’s plentiful program, we find time to relax, drink in the blue sea, talk amongst ourselves, and ponder on the amazing Kimberley experience we have just shared. As we settle into the familiar routine of another gourmet dinner followed by lively entertainment, we can’t help but think thankfully we have one more day aboard!
