Sailing North. Feb 22

 VERY early wakeup for excursion from Puerto Montt to Emerald Lake, Petrohue Rapids and Puerto Varas.  We were on one of six Seabourn buses for this excursion, probably the only time we felt like we were being herded on this cruise.  Scenery was pretty, the entire area was upscale resort and Puerto Varas is a pretty town.  We arrived back at the ship for mid-afternoon departure.  Tonight was the last formal night and the Farewell to Antarctica and Crew Salute including the premier of the voyage video.  It was nice to salute the crew and the video is fantastic!  The drone footage of the minke whale playing with our kayak group is amazing!  We’re so excited to have this as a reminder of the experience.

·        Up at 515 for our lake/etc tour.  As I along with everyone else are sitting there extremely sleepy I see gay guy enter who is in a riotous good mood amusing self.  End up talking to him in line.  And to his partner on the boat.  Partner has been to Bend, Oregon because his company’s US office is there.  Clear division of roles in this couple.  6 busses going on tour. 

·        Pretty long bus ride.  Gabriel works pretty hard to keep us entertained.  He’s a heavier guy with a scarf.  Seabourn professionalism: water bottles, name tags

·        The boat ride is really just a ferry that crosses one of the lakes.  Views are pretty but it feels like this must have cost $5 for them.  And is exactly 45 minutes

·        Then we go to waterfalls.  Impressive views but water level is low.  I'd had no particular expectations but find out later that others are disappointed.

·        Notice that Bob of Bob&Christie helps older lady in shuttle boat.  Boat ROCKS like crazy on way to land!  I’m convinced water is going to slosh in.  And driver has to take 4-5 tries to tie up.  For ride home, several people who know Bob (owns tug boat company) suggest that he take the helm.

·        On way out of port we pass "Meubles of Oregon" store!  (= furniture)

·        We stop in town (name?) which looks like it should have interesting shopping but we’ve only got 45 minutes.  Another group was told they only had 35 minutes.  On 2 intersections kids begging (entertaining with knives, juggling, singing for money).

·        Clearly the city built for shopping was Ushuaia.  Here some interesting things but I’ve got my heart set on logo stuff.

·        Then salmon lunch (Gabriel makes sure I get chicken).  I play strategic about seating so that we have best views out on harbor.  Tasty Pisco sours to start.  Guy who looks like Jeff Bezos.  Other guy who looks like Tim Cook.  Both English.  Nice to talk to.  Amazing views from restaurant.   Distracted by interesting/new people to talk to.

·        Back to port.  Some people have, I assume, bribed to be allowed to sell at port but nothing interesting.  Boat back is a bit rocky too.

·        Tonight is unveiling of the trip video!  And cheering for the staff.  Roland had the most people of anyone in his staff.

·        I make request for foie gras at dinner tomorrow