26-07-2013 Friday - Indian Arm Cruise & Cavatini Dinner

Today all 5 Butlers went on the Indian Arm Cruise. Dawn drove with John in the front so we could squeeze the other 3 Butlers in the back rather than take two cars.  

We drove downtown and parked in the allocated harbour cruise parking.  










At 10.30 we boarded the Harbour Princess which sailed at 11.00.  It was a much nicer cruise ship than we all anticipated and as soon as we were on board we were taken to our allocated table and offered tea/coffee.









Views as we left the city.

The ship's toilet facilities were the best I've ever seen on a cruise ship and the staff were attentive and helpful.


Lion's Gate Bridge






There were three levels and we were on the 'A' deck which was the bottom level.  The next level up also had tables and chairs and the bar at the back (stern) and stairs at the front (bow) leading down to an outdoor area midway between those two levels.  The top level was open air and had some seating in the middle.







The cruise took us under the Ironworkers Bridge.   







The lower railway bridge raising in the middle to let us through.

Lunch was served in buffet style with lovely salads and a choice of chicken or salmon.  Later cakes were also put out and more tea/coffee served.










We then went on to Deep Cove so we were able to see a different perspective of what we had seen a few times.

Close-up.











Panorama.












We could just spot people up on Quarry Rock.









We were given a bit of a commentary on the way around and eventually ended up at Silver Falls.  It was funny listening to people as we were out on the bow as the captain drove the ship very close to the rocks on shore as the waterfall looked very small.  

However, as he moved slightly to the right the real Falls became apparent and everyone was more satisfied.  This took just over two hours and then it was time to turn around and head back. 

When we were close to Vancouver Harbour the captain took the ship further to the right where harbour seals were sunning themselves on floating logs - camouflaged so they were a bit hard to spot unless they moved.  We were all feeling a bit tired from the trip and ready to get home.  However, Vancouver traffic had other ideas and it took a 2 hour drive to get home :(   Yes, the traffic isn't great with only two bridges accessing Vancouver to North Vancouver - as soon as there is a traffic incident it affects everyone everywhere!

Finally,we arrived home and the Cavatini John had prepared the night before was in the oven.










At 7pm we went over to the Raffas with Mick & Brenda to have dinner with David & Louise.  Carmen & Rachel were both away and Lindsay had dinner but then had to cram in some last studying before here exam on Saturday but Andrew stayed to chat.

Mick & Brenda.

Steven & Andrew.

Brenda had prepared a lovely salad and Louise had prepared some yummy nibbles and dessert.  We all had a lovely evening together.


Lindsay & Louise.