4. Mt. Fuji excursion and embarkation day

As was the case last year when we came to Japan, a pre cruise excursion to Mt. Fuji was included in the package. Given that last year the rain, drizzle and fog meant that we couldn't see our hands in front of our faces, let alone Japan's most sacred mountain, we were hoping for somewhat better conditions this time.

The day dawned bright and sunny and the thermometer was quickly rising. As we neared the mountain, it quickly became apparent that the lower slopes would be easily visible, but that the upper slopes and volcanic cone would be shrouded within the clouds. However, it was a vast improvement on 2017! 

Upon returning to the hotel by way of the famous bullet train, we made a visit to a local cat cafe before turning in for the night. Two words describe this visit, "cute" and "expensive".

As an aside, the first people that we spoke with on this excursion (and who are also on the cruise), come from Guernsey. Small world indeed.

Embarkation day was not without its problems, but thankfully nothing that affected us too greatly.

Before leaving the hotel for the drive down to the port, we were informed that the Diamond Princess was late arriving into Yokohama due to a medical evacuation the day before and that boarding would not commence until 4pm, some four hours later than usual. Fortunately, we were able to check in our luggage at the terminal and then had a few hours to look around Yokohama itself, so we were able to take advantage of  some unexpected time in port. On the other hand, the temperature was 33C with high humidity, so any long walks would soon become exhausting. The compromise was a bit of a walk, a light lunch and icecream. All very satisfactory given the circumstances.

We made our way back to the terminal just after the boarding commencement time and then our platinum loyalty status kicked in. We were given an escort right to the front of the 50 metre queue and went straight to the priority boarding desk. The result was that we were on the ship within a few minutes although it did feel rather unbritish jumping such a long line.

The delayed arrival of the ship obviously had knock on effects. The first evening's dinner has been open seating, so we have yet to meet our regular dining companions and the ship did not sail until after 8pm. But we are now under way with a day to relax at sea tomorrow and no doubt there will be many bleary-eyed England football fans on show too. Fingers crossed lads!

There is one other piece of good news. Having booked a balcony stateroom, the upgrade fairy has waved her magic wand and upgraded us to a mini-suite.  To say that we are rather chuffed is an understatement!