Sailing through COVID-19
Thirst for adventure
The cruising industry took a battering in 2020. And as we sail through 2021 although vessels remain afloat, companies may not.
Nearly a year since COVID-19 entered the realm of Western Australia with an outbreak onboard the ‘MS Artania,’ the government has decreed a ‘snap lockdown’ to quell the spread from a single infected security guard tasked with managing hotel quarantine guests. As businesses close and wearing masks is mandatory we continue to navigate this epic global voyage. ‘Welcome Aboard’ our altered journey of life. Time to reflect…
We meet in Malaysia
Harris decides to fly to Kuala Lumpur to visit his sick mother while I remain in Stuttgart to oversee staff and despatch final Christmas orders. My plan is to fly to England to stay with friends and catch up with extended family. We agree to meet in Malaysia, so forfeit the first leg of our journey from Kiel. It has been a productive yet stressful year, and we are both exhausted.
At last, Harris picks up his mobile and apologises for missing my calls. As agreed, I have arrived at Port Klang. It is one o’clock and I wait in the queue with my suitcase, perspiration oozing from my face and neck. Telling me to stay right where I am, Harris is soon by my side and squeezing my waist. Relieved and excited to see each other again we laugh and kiss, feeling safe in our love.
Eight decks of opulence
With paperwork in order, we board the ‘MS Artania.’ It is an amazing eight-decked vessel, a truly magnificent floating hotel with the added benefit of no children. We make our way past the central Reception area on Neptun Deck, swept up in the excitement of boarding passengers and the opulence of our surroundings. Everything is gleaming, from the balustrades to the enormous sculptural artwork. Our eyes soar upwards to the commanding primary colours of a stunning stained-glass domed orb. We cannot wait to ascend the magnificent staircase and explore the decks above.
