Pacific Sky (2005)

In October 2005 I took advantage of the first season that a cruise ship was based in Melbourne and joined P&O Australia's Pacific Sky for a round trip to the South Pacific islands. The ship was very comfortable, noticeably cleaner inside than when I had previously visited her, the service was very good and the food good. As ever, I had a great time.

Pacific Sky arriving back in Melbourne after her first Melbourne based cruise 31st. October 2005.

Sailing from Melbourne on Monday 31st. October.

Being Melbourne Cup week, Pacific Sun was also in port, until the next Wednesday.

Approaching Port Phillip heads in the early evening light.

Early in the cruise the Captain invited me onto the bridge.

Looking aft from the port bridge wing.

My four berth cabin for one.

My ever obliging cabin stewards.

Ship's tenders at the Isle of Pines.

Returning to the ship.

Bridge maintenance while at anchor at Ouvea.

Some of the friendly bar staff.

One of the two almost identical dining rooms.

The Horizon lounge, a piano bar overlooking the bow.

Berthing in Vila, 6th. Nov 2005.

Captain Stefano Revera (centre) held a pilot's exemption for this port. He was one of the most personable and sociable captains I've ever sailed with.

Coming alongside.

Evening at sea after departure Vila.

Mystery Island.

At anchor at Lifou.

Late afternoon departure from Lifou.

This aft lounge was the most popular on the ship.

The ship's excellent Filipino band playing in the aft lounge.

I don't don't care what you say, I'm finishing my Guiness!

The shopping area.

Arrival Noumea.

The New Caledonia pilot (in blue jacket).

Island traders at Noumea.

The Port Phillip pilot launch approaching in morning sunlight outside the heads, 13th. November.

The Port Phillip sea pilot boarding.

Approaching Station Pier, Port Melbourne, and the end of the cruise.

(L-R) The Captain, the Port Phillip Sea Pilot, the Staff Captain).