Day 7 - the 12th

It was time to leave Malta - bye Malta!
A lot of us were on the deck to witness leaving.

Being pushed and pulled into position by tugs and having the military with the 7mil machine guns at the ready - really does make you aware they are NOT playing.  After the USS Cole it makes me feel better.  They had guards posted any time we were docked as well - walking the deck.  Makes you think twice about being safe while you're in a foreign country.  I did feel safe, by the way... just makes you think twice about being a true target and makes you behave on your best behaviour while out and about.  Not that you shouldn't be always as a guest in someone else's country.

 There is a pilot boat tucked up under the back... picking up the pilot who gets you out of port.  I did find out that they cost an estimated $250,000 for every time a pilot is needed to bring a big ship into port.  The cruise ships are three times bigger than our ship - which is surprising.  BUT they are paid well for what they do!

 Back to open ocean.
I was on the deck above the wheel house - attempting to watch the sunset in the gale force winds... I huddled down below the wall for a bit, but it was way too cold and blustery for me!!

Pictures for Liz.

Here is the light switch in the bathroom - you'll note it's a three way.  down was for red lights at night, up was full lights and middle was off. 

The shower in the head that I used while on board.  Yep - one very small shower, but it wasn't told to us to do "Navy showers" so it wasn't horrible.  The water was pleantiful and hot, what more could you want?

 The sink in the main head - not sure where the potty picture went but just picture black toilet seat tucked into a corner similar to the sink.  The door had locks on both sides for when you left it wasn't left swinging in the waves.

 Never knew it was a CHT system... so "chit?" hahahaha!  Sorry!  Couldn't resist!

 I have NO idea where my picture went of the hall way in the red lights... maybe it didn't take...