MV Discovery

OUR TRIP TO SOUTH AMERICA IN MARCH 2007

Discovery

Galapagos

For 30 days we lived aboard the MV Discovery

The MV Discovery was launched in 1973 but re- fitted in 2002. It's small at 22,000 tons, slightly larger than our BC ferries.	The stern pool deck is a popular place for soaking up the sun. In rough weather everything is bundled and lashed.	The swimming pools are small, but adequate for cooling off. Cocktail parties spill out onto this deck.	Each stair landing has a ship's plan. Both bow and stern have stairs and elevator. Capacity is about 600.

Four elevators are very adequate.	As with any cruise ship, the booze is never far away.	Two hot tubs are above the stern.	The ship's lifeboats and tenders are well used because many remote ports have small docks.

The captain, upper right, is very accessible. He makes his own announce- ments each noon and loves to tell stories at cocktail parties.	A small gymnasium looks out over the stern. Several cardio machines and hand weights are available. There's a great water cooler also.	Bridge is popular aboard the Discovery. There are daily discussions and games. Lectures about the features along route are presented daily.	One shop with clothing, jewelry and sundries is located mid-ships.

Central landings display specialty shop items.	The ship usually maintains satellite contact. We were sold 12 hours for $40. Terminals are available or you can use a laptop.	Walking on the observation deck is fun. Eighteen circuits make a mile.	Very comfortable sitting areas make for pleasant cruising in any kind of weather.

The library (left door) opens each day. Bars are located in several places around the ship.	The purser's office is efficient and pleasant. The shops area visible on the deck above.	A second swimming pool is located under glass on the Lido Deck. Buffet food is also served here.	The Lido buffet was a popular alternative to the dining room, especially for breakfast and lunch.

Cabins on Discovery are functional but not fancy. Our inside cabin had plenty of storage and very firm beds.	Many of the food plates were works of art but the substance was sometimes lacking. Fish was always fresh and local.	Dining celebrations are fun and frequent. The waiters and other staff are excellent.	Many passengers are repeat customers. A sales desk offers "deals" for follow up cruises.