Western Med 2022 - Day 9 - July 16

Standard breakfast, standard photo call!

Last time we were in Mallorca we were travelling with friends John and Sheila, we hired a car and had a fabulous day driving around the island, exploring villages and towns far from the capital (although we do remember getting the car stuck in the narrow streets of the old town too!)

Sailing in we observe an American aircraft carrier berthed in the bay, and a few other cruise ships parked up. 

We start by heading up hundreds of steps to visit Castell de Bellver, built between 1300 and 1311 and largely untouched since, although newer parts were added, nothing in the centre was removed. 

Now mainly an interesting museum, and also a venue, the views from the ramparts are excellent. 

We return to coastal level to continue walking around the bay that spans about two miles from the cruise port at one end to the city, every bit of it is marina - literally thousands of yachts are here, plus one aquatic car!

We continue on past the city to the start of the beaches in the North, before turning around to head to the iconic cathedral, the Catedral Santa Maria de Palma. 

This gothic magnificence was begun in 1229 but only finished in 1601 - competing with tomorrow’s for the longest build-time perhaps?

Inside are the most exceptional vaulted ceilings, beautiful stained glass windows, and chapels galore. 

We wander around the aforementioned tiny streets, loving the old buildings, hustle and bustle, before starting our return walk to Sojourn. 

After lunch it’s pool first because deck eight is closed from 16:00 to set up for an event, so we work later, before returning to shower and dress for the evening. 

The Seabourn Epicurean event is a wonderful time when the officers take their turn to serve all manner of delicacies from booths around the pool, whilst the excellent band and singer keep the party going. It culminates in the usual parade of staff, from all levels of the ship’s company, and it is the perfect opportunity for us guests to say a big thank you to them for the excellent service we’ve enjoyed. 

Dinner will not be reported as we had guests this evening - the wonderful singers Matt and Jazz.

The show was a Stevie Wonder celebration, the ship’s company, dancers and orchestra created an excellent review of this great singer’s most loved songs.