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Exploring the Croatian coastline on new ultra-luxury ship Europa 2 continued
DAY 3
This morning, I hit the gym before breakfast. State-of-the art gym equipment is in keeping with the ships other facilities. As I run on the treadmill looking out to sea as we cruise towards Rovinj , I wonder if there is any better way to start the day.
Today a wine tasting excursion takes me into the Croatian countryside and to a small town called Porec. Here a tour of a family vineyard (once visited by the pope) is given before a sampling the wines and a light lunch.
On return to Rovinj I take a walk past colourful stone houses to the church of St Euphemia. The church with its 200ft bell tower offers fantastic views of this colourful town and the nearby islands – for those brave enough to climb it!
The late afternoon lends to some leisure time on board and I decide that it is time to make the most of that fabulous spa! After a spending time in the Herbal and Finnish saunas, the Jacuzzi and the hot stone beds I go back to my suite to get ready for dinner feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Tonight we opt to dine in the Sushi restaurant. Endless platters of different starters and main courses let those who are new to Sushi try different options. This evening is rounded up with a Pina Colada in the Sansibar as we cruise to Venice.
DAY 4
This morning, I am straight out on to the Belvedere deck to see the ship cruise past St Marks square and into Venice! Glass of champagne in hand, this is a truly wonderful moment and one I shall always treasure.
The ship docks just by the San Basilio terminal and after breakfast we meet with our guide for an ‘ Off the Beaten Tracks’ tour of Venice. We begin by taking in the famous sights of St Mark’s Square, the Bridge of Sighs and Doge’s Palace, before wandering the hidden streets of and ending with lunch at a small Italian restaurant.
After lunch I explore Venice at my leisure, crossing the Rialto Bridge and admiring the expensive and extravagant shops. I soon find that I have got lost in wonder of this majestic city with its fabulous architecture and ambience and it is nearly time for dinner, so I get the Vaparetta (water bus) back to the ship - it costs €8 and is a quick and easy way of getting back.
Dinner this evening is in the Serenisima, Europa 2’s Italian speciality restaurant – very fitting in Venice! The Serenisima is exceptional and now my favourite restaurant. I enjoy a delicious 5-course meal, before finishing the evening with some prosecco and dancing in Sansibar.
DAY 5
My case was packed the evening before and waits for me at San Basilo terminal. After I have collected this I meet my transfer for the 20-minute drive to Marco Polo airport.
I am very sorry my journey on Europa 2 has come to an end – it really has been a magnificent experience. My only criticism is that it wasn’t longer.
Review by Jenny, Blue Water Holidays