We got into port yestreday morning, bright and early. It was a small, very small port. The ship had to turn around, using its side thrusters, to get into position to dock. Not a problem for these ships.

However, the wind from one direction and the waves from the other direction meant that disembarking would be unsafe. THere are at least three floors that offer disembarkation - so that tides can be accounted for under usual conditions.

However, the ship was rocking because of the weather conditions, and the rock was such that no gangplank placement was safe. The would have had to change ganplank floors every hald0minute or so. Not safe.

So, instead of a fine visit for Fortaleza, we went back out to sea (well after the critically ill patient and his family disembarked).

Thus, we have a total of five days at sea in a row, instead of one, then Fortaleza, then three days to Barbados.

Not a problem.

We crossed the equator at 4:25 am today. I did not stay up for that crossing, but my husband did. He woke me up for the event.

Now, we both are shellbacks!!

ONWARD to Barbardos. Monday: shopping!