July 13 Tallin, Estonia

I forgot to mention the neat docking system they had yesterday in Nynashamn.  We got close to the dock and dropped anchor. Then a big floating articulated pier came right up to the ship and tied up. Very practical since it looked like it could be used for lots of different sized ships at various distances from the dock and meant we didn't have to use tenders to get in.

I must admit before this cruise I couldn't have found Estonia on a map, but what a lovely city Tallin is. We didn't take a tour but just walked around the old walled city which is where most visitors go. Big buses aren't allowed so walking tours are offered. The buildings are built right on the street and painted in beautiful muted colors.  There are lots of cute shops and cafes with outdoor seating. We stopped at one for a soda and sandwich. Just then it began to rain a bit but our big table umbrella kept us pretty dry and it was warm so no problem.  Then it was back to the ship and a couple of hours at the adult pool and hot tubs.  It's an enclosed area and has spa music going so is very relaxing.

At dinner we have a bar waiter to take any drink orders. Now that Michael can't drink, we've been getting a big bottle of Perrier.  There's also a sommelier who takes wine orders. I just tell her what I'm ordering to eat and let her decide what would work best with it.  She's been very good so far.  She sometimes stumbles over our names and I swear she has called me Mrs. Baloney, which makes me smile.  Michael is being very good about having a big salad for his entree, preceded by an appetizer and followed by a dessert, of course.  Ray says that by the end of the cruise they can swap trousers since he will have put on weight and Michael will have lost.