We have settled into living aboard the ship, although we still have a few "conveniences" since we are tied up to the dock until we leave port (our scheduled departure is Sat. May 21st at 10:30am). Some of the "conveniences" include a flush toilet, hot water shower and telephone line, all of which are located in the warehouse at the end of the dock. However, the convenience factor is diluted by the fact that there is only one of each (toilet, shower and phone) for nearly 50 people to share. Waiting in line is not unusual.
On board, we share close living quarters. Berths are stacked two high. In the main salon, where I reside, we have 18 bunks and four long dining tables. Whenever the weather is inclement we eat there; in good weather we eat up on deck or, if the cargo hold is open for stowing food and supplies, we eat on the dock. Each berth has a curtain to draw across the opening for privacy. Of course, it does not keep out voices or other noise. We have a strict lights out and quiet at 10:00pm so that those who want to can get some sleep.
Because of the tight quarters we each have limited personal storage space. Most people have access to half the space below the lower berth and a narrow cubby that runs the length of the berth; some people who do not have under-berth storage have a sea chest. In any case, we have our belongings packed in rather tightly and to get at something that is tucked away usually means digging down through the layers. I'm gradually figuring out what I need to access frequently and am continually rearranging my things to make it easier. Maybe by the time I get to Bali I will figure out the solution to this jigsaw puzzle.
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