Sri Lanka and Indian Ocean post

Ancient Ceylon now known as Sri Lanka was our next stop and the ship was greeted by a ceremonial elephant as we docked and disembarked.  We enjoyed a Buddhist temple and cultural museum in Colombo, followed by tea and refreshments at the Galle Face Hotel.  We saw snake charmers in the park across the street and Steve's sons may remember their Dad wrapping two snakes around his shoulders when they visited a park in Singapore nearly 30 years ago.  Well he couldn't resist handling a 6 foot python this trip and you'll see photos of the snake hanging from his shoulders if you scroll down near the bottom of this post.  

Since our ship is now sailing west towards the Seychelles and the continent of Africa, the Captain has informed us about the safety measures we are taking to ward off any possible pirate attacks.  Should Somali pirates attempt to board the vessel, the crew has draped razor wire along each side of the ship along the Promenade deck which will slow them down and there are high pressure water hoses stationed around the ship.  Plus there are four (4) sonar guns which can emit high-frequency noises towards approaching vessels positioned at the front and back of our deck (Deck 6) on both sides - port and starboard - and I've included a photo of one of the guns in this post.  

Finally, the crew is on constant alert with 24 hour watches stationed around the ship and the crew and passengers have all practiced a drill on what to do should anyone attempt to stop the ship and board this vessel.  Sad that these measures are necessary, but the precautions being taken are providing some measure of relief to the passengers and we feel we are prepared just in case!  

We arrive in Victoria, Seychelles tomorrow and we'll post again soon afterwards.  Until then may we all be safe - best wishes!