I can’t say that Captain Kumamon is excited – it’s more dignified anticipation. Why? Well I’m not sure he’s quite forgiven us for the lack of a cruise last year. Cosy as the Newcastle-Amsterdam ferry was, it’s not quite the same thing. His major complaint was the distinct lack of towel animals, trivia quizzes, and late night snacks (wait – that last one might have been Ian).

So while we’ve been trying to keep this year’s plans secret from him, rumours have been swirling for weeks now. And then – he saw the Luggage Tag. The one that has the name of the ship, and the cabin number. Indisputable Proof. He’ll deny it, but I swear I saw him doing a little jig when he found out. Ever since, he’s been polishing up his brass buttons and straightening out his gold epaulettes in readiness for formal nights. Maybe he’ll even score an invitation to the (real) Captain’s table? Or a visit to the Bridge?

And it’s not just the ship that he’s looking forward to. There are plans afoot for a ferry in the Faroes, another across the Mersey, and a third across the Kiel Canal; a ride on the new Elizabeth tube line; plenty of plane spotting; trips on trams, trains, and even a tram/train (yes, it’s a thing); boatloads of canals, locks, aqueducts and unusual bridges; windmills galore (he likes anything that has sails); a Space Train (you’ll just have to wait and see what that’s about); walks along waterfronts and ancient city walls; and lots more.

He seems less excited about the orienteering.