Cruise Day 9 - How Our Wellington, New Zealand Day Became a Day at Sea - Sunday, December 31, 2023

Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, was our scheduled port today. On any trip, we love exploring the capital, whether in one of our states or a foreign country. History abounds and is brought to life in a capital city. Today, landfall in Wellington on the southern tip of the North Island was not to be. 

Last night, we were warned that Wellington's port had 70 mph winds. It was a distinct possibility that we would not go there. 

Because of the high winds, the port closed. That gave us a day at sea. So what do you do with caged animals? You provide them with enrichment activities and entertainment. 

The Norwegian Spirit came through for us. Throughout the day, we did the following activities:

• 11 am - Bucket List Trivia.
• Noon - 55 to Stay Alive Game Show: Contestants compete in quick and quirky challenges. They have less than a minute to win it.
• 1 pm - Giant Pictionary.
• 1:30 pm - Verbal Scattergories.
• 5:30 pm - New Year's Eve Dinner in Windows Main Dining.
• 7 pm - Duo Delight show in the Stardust Theatre. This 45-minute show gives insight into the life of a circus couple from Ukraine. You will see the result of years of persistent practice, a few broken bones, and other injuries. Join us as we take you through our love story, from our first acquaintance through the present day. In this show, you will see the connection between flexibility, power, and beauty. For one night only, Duo Delight will open their hearts to you.
• 8 pm - Broadway Cabaret in the Spinnaker Lounge. Be entertained with an exciting range of contemporary and classic Broadway show tunes. From Grease to West Side Story and Les Miserables to Miss Saigon, you'll want to sing, or maybe even dance, along. A do-not-miss event for musical theater and pop music fans alike.
• 9:15 pm - Battle of the Sexes Game Show (18+) in the Spinnaker Lounge. This hilarious all-out battle of wisdom and brilliance pits the ladies against the gents to find out who reigns supreme. 
• 11:30 pm - 1 am - New Year's Countdown and Balloon Drop Party in The Atrium. This is tonight's main event with a champagne toast from the Officers and Crew as we bid farewell to 2023 and say "Hello" to 2024.

We took time out for a nap in the middle of the afternoon so we can party into the wee hours of the morning. Ha!

Sunset at sea, somewhere off the coast of 
Wellington, South Island, New Zealand.

We are at the New Year's Eve Party on the 
Norwegian Spirit off the coast of Wellington, NZ.

One lady wore a T-Rex costume.
That must have been hot!!!

2023 Ice Carving. At midnight, they
swapped it for a 2024 ice carving.

New Year's Eve party revelers before the
balloon drop.

After the midnight balloon drop, we sang "Celebrate" by Kool & the Gang. Another year bites the dust. We're excited about 2024. Bring it on!