We were detained all day at anchor in Patmos yesterday while we cooperated with the incident investigation. We were released for travel Saturday night and arrived at Santorini this morning as scheduled. Rhodes had to be canceled.
Sadly, I learned through an online search that the 48 year old captain of the tug died. His body was recovered by a private diver. A second man was able to swim to safety unharmed.
Our prayers go out to this man’s family and this community.
Santorini
Today we took a ship’s excursion on Santorini. It started with a long tender ride to the new port where tour coaches are allowed at water level. The coach meandered along the road executing a series of switchbacks as it climbed to the top of the island. From there it was a pleasant ride to Akrotiri.
This archeological museum covers the excavated portion of the ancient city of Akrotiri. In about 1650BC a massive eruption buried this city of 10,000 in ash. It was not until 1967 that it was discovered and excavation was begun. In 2005 the museum roof collapsed killing and injuring some tourists. Finally in 2012 the museum reopened. It is the most important museum of its kind.
Our guide, Katie, has been a close friend of the lead archaeologist for 35 years. She has had questions answered by him and has received many insights into the complexities of the site. She shared this with us with enthusiasm. Her explanations were clear. She explained that some of the buildings were 3 stories high. There was a drainage system as well as a toilet system. This was very sophisticated for a city of 4,000 years ago. Sophisticated artifacts abounded. Amazing.
Our tour here went almost an hour beyond what was planned. There were no complaints as we boarded the coach.
Next we stopped at Santo Wines. Here we sampled 3 varieties of their wines. A dry white, a pleasant red and a very sweet dessert wine. This was a pleasant opportunity to relax and enjoy before lunch.
Another ride took us to a Greek taverna for an excellent lunch with music and dance entertainment. Some of our group even joined in the dancing. Participants and observers alike had a grand time.
We drove to Oia to walk the old streets and photograph the blue and white buildings clinging to the hillsides. This city is famous for its sunsets. We would have to imagine one because we had to leave in late afternoon.
The coach now navigated the winding road to the port. We took the tender back to Journey without event.
The event was taking place on the ship. This was was Azamara’s White Night celebration. One night on every cruise features white clothing and decorations with special food and drink and entertainment. This was our night.
We did not party long however. We were tired after this busy day.
No comments:
Post a Comment