After clearing customs and immigration in Darwin, National Geographic Orion turned northwest and began the long crossing of the Timor Sea. We didn’t make the journey alone and were escorted across the shining cerulean waters by flying fish, sea snakes, and the occasional dolphin. The day was peppered with opportunities to relax, learn, and explore. From talks about visual storytelling and the aboriginal Australian world, to behind-the-scenes tours of the culinary wizardry taking place in the galley, there was plenty to keep us all engaged. Midway through the trip, this was also a great opportunity for folks to recharge, enjoy a few cocktails, and prepare for our arrival in Indonesia.