This morning we visited the ancient fishing town of Rovinj, which still exhibits a distinct Venetian character, architecture, and dual language signs, after centuries of rule by “La Serenissima.” We climbed up the hill to the majestic cathedral of St. Euphemia, then through Roman ruins and the maze of little lanes, typical of any small town that took form in medieval times. Next we explored the central part of the Istrian peninsula, visiting San Tommaso winery, where we savored local products offered on cutting boards and tasted autochthon wines. Sea Cloud II was waiting for us in the old Istrian capital of Pula, where we had the option to eat lunch on board or enjoy local restaurants. In the afternoon we visited an amazingly preserved Roman amphitheater which still proudly stands as the main landmark in modern days. We finished the day with a sunset dinner on the lido deck.
6/12/2025
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Sea Cloud II
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Today, we immersed ourselves in the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic." Anchored just off the old town, Sea Cloud II provided a stunning vantage point to admire Croatia’s dramatic coastline, where limestone cliffs meet crystalline waters, and ancient pines cling to rugged slopes. Dubrovnik’s storied past as the Republic of Ragusa came alive as we explored its UNESCO-listed walls. This maritime republic, though small, wielded remarkable influence; they abolished slavery in the 15th century, and established Europe’s first pharmacy. St. Blaise, the city’s patron saint, watched over us as we wandered the Franciscan Monastery’s serene cloister and climbed the formidable battlements, tracing the steps of medieval sentries. The afternoon brought a feast for the senses: a traditional “peka” lunch at a rustic village mill, where succulent meats and vegetables slow-cooked under embers delighted our palates. The day crescendoed with an enchanting performance by “Klapa Oštro,” their haunting harmonies echoing Dubrovnik’s enduring spirit. As the sun dipped below the Adriatic, we got ready for our farewell dinner aboard Sea Cloud II , revisiting our memories together with the screening of the guests’ slide show.
