I'm kind of wondering how many people will be on this trip. I've read some threads where people that have taken this trip have found the ship far from full. I also recognize that Aug 7th may not be the most desirable time for this trip (although it is the time that works best for me). I expect it to be hot, and I think the place where we board the ship is called the furnace of China.
Having said that--I am really looking forward to this trip.