A Mixed Musical Bag
Our first full day aboard was a curious mix of sounds and styles—some festive, some flat, and a few surprises.
1. Happy Christmas Melodies Everywhere
From breakfast to sunset, the ship was wrapped in holiday cheer. Familiar carols like Jingle Bells, Silent Night, and Deck the Halls drifted through the corridors in soft instrumental arrangements. It was warm and nostalgic, but after hours of the same playlist, even Santa might have asked for a remix.
2. The Tired Saxophone Player
Evening promised jazz, but what we got was a weary saxophonist blowing through standards like Autumn Leaves and Misty without a flicker of soul. No improvisation, no swing—just notes landing flat, as if he was counting down to bedtime. The saxophone, usually a voice of passion, sounded like it needed a nap.
3. The Wooden Lady and Her Standards
Next came a vocalist tackling classics like Summertime and Fly Me to the Moon. Sadly, her delivery was stiff, almost mechanical. No phrasing, no warmth—just a marionette moving through the motions. The songs deserved life; they got monotony.
4. A Glimpse of Grandeur
I caught the back end of the main show—a burst of lights, sequins, and synchronized choreography to upbeat pop medleys. From what I saw, it was polished and energetic, with dancers moving to ABBA’s Dancing Queen and Elvis Presley’s Can’t Help Falling in Love. Tomorrow, I’ll make sure to see the full spectacle.
5. Disco Fever with Teen Energy (and My Husband Out of His Comfort Zone)
Finally, the disco. A few dozen teenagers owned the dance floor, grooving to the latest hits—think Dua Lipa, Burna Boy, and Afrobeat rhythms. Their energy was infectious. My husband, bless him, was completely out of his comfort zone, standing among the flashing lights and pounding beats like a diplomat at a rave. After one cocktail, we slipped back to the cabin—liberated from a day of musical mediocrity.
6. Karaoke—Now Cancelled?
One surprise: there are no more karaoke sessions scheduled for the rest of the cruise. I can’t help but wonder—was my enthusiastic performance on Day 1 the reason? If so, apologies to the brave souls who were ready to belt out their favorites. I promise, next time, I’ll stick to humming in the shower.
Here’s hoping tomorrow brings a brighter tune.
Nnunu Ramogotsi: Africa's Jewel 