The Indian Ocean

We officially made it through the Strait of Malacca even though there was a terror/pirate warning issued by the Singapore Navy for all ships traveling through.   The warning was mainly for oil tankers, but like anything, it got blown out of proportion on the ship and rumors were spreading like wildfire.  People were saying our ship was getting a naval escort or that we were altering our course…totally crazy!   We did see a lot of little dinghies that looked suspicious but they probably were just fisherman.  

Yesterday was one of my best days on the ship.  We had the “Sea Olympics,” which is a series of competitions that take place on the ship.  It was a fun day off from classes and the day ended with a delicious BBQ and everyone was outside watching the beautiful sunset.  Afterward pretty much everyone on the ship crammed into the little pool.  There had to be at least two hundred students in a pool that’s maybe ten meters by ten meters.  It was awesome!  The crew had trouble getting us all out when the time came to close the pool. 

Another thing that hit me today, as I was eating outside looking at the ocean, is that I’m sailing through the Indian Ocean!!!  This is a place that has only ever been a blue area on a map to me!  Luckily the sea’s been very calm and it’s been perfect weather:  sunny with no clouds in sky!    We also were able to get a good look at the Nicobar Islands as we head towards India.  These islands officially belong to India and no foreign citizen is allowed on them. It's a shame because they were pretty and would be a fun vacation spot.

We arrive in India this coming Thursday and the excitement all around the ship is building!