SD I -July 14, Venice to Athens

[frequent traveler]

ZQVOL has advised we will be in Dubrovnik on our "turnaround" day with a multitude of other ships . And since I hate crowds. . . And love kayaking -has anyone done the SD offered or another similar excursion? Any recommendations or stay away from at all costs?

Thanks

FT

[CDreamer]

ZQVOL has advised we will be in Dubrovnik on our "turnaround" day with a multitude of other ships . And since I hate crowds. . . And love kayaking -has anyone done the SD offered or another similar excursion? Any recommendations or stay away from at all costs?

Thanks FT

 

Another crowd hater here too so I definitely understand your concern!

 

FT, the first time we went to Dubrovnik was in 2010, and it was the last stop on our SD1 Athens-Dubrovnik cruise. We saw zillions of mega cruise people lined up to enter the old town and were thankful we had signed up for the kayak cruise instead of hassling the crowds in the city.

 

We were escorted through the town then headed over to where the kayaks were stationed. We signed the release, put our life preservers on, hopped in our kayaks, and were paddling along the old wall before we knew it. They took us to a private little cove where we could just hang out or swim and the water was calm (good idea to wear water shoes since these coves have little pebbles; not much sand). The swells were higher and the wind a bit stronger going back but still manageable. It was fun and nice to be away from the crowds. Go to Google Images then type in: kayaking in Dubrovnik and you'll see some pics where you'll kayak.

 

Footnote: we stayed on for 4 days after our cruise and Dubrovnik is really an amazingly charming, small old city once the crowds leave. If you decide to brave the town and the line isn't long climb up to the top and walk the city wall... views are amazing! If you want to have lunch there get off the main drag and head UP one of the staircases.... you will find there are some very quiet and decent restaurants away from the crowds (most of whom would not even know these restaurants were there!).

 

Hope this helps.

[frequent traveler]

FT, the first time we went to Dubrovnik was in 2010, and it was the last stop on our SD1 Athens-Dubrovnik cruise. We saw zillions of mega cruise people lined up to enter the old town and were thankful we had signed up for the kayak cruise instead of hassling the crowds in the city.

 

We were escorted through the town then headed over to where the kayaks were stationed. We signed the release, put our life preservers on, hopped in our kayaks, and were paddling along the old wall before we knew it. They took us to a private little cove where we could just hang out or swim and the water was calm (good idea to wear water shoes since these coves have little pebbles; not much sand). The swells were higher and the wind a bit stronger going back but still manageable. It was fun and nice to be away from the crowds. Go to Google Images then type in: kayaking in Dubrovnik and you'll see some pics where you'll kayak.

 

Hope this helps.

 

Thanks very much. This does help. So far haven't planned on many excursions (likely will be having knee surgery right when we return), but this one sounds like a must. Did you book the excursion through SD?

 

Next time I get on an airplane will be to head to Venice so counting down the days . . .this time two weeks from now, will actually be on board:) I hear Croatia can get pretty warm in the summer. Bet it won't approach our record setting heat wave here - could reach 104!

 

FT

[CDreamer]

Thanks very much. This does help. So far haven't planned on many excursions (likely will be having knee surgery right when we return), but this one sounds like a must. Did you book the excursion through SD? :::snip::: I hear Croatia can get pretty warm in the summer. Bet it won't approach our record setting heat wave here - could reach 104! FT

 

Yikes, we're used to those temps in our So. Calif. desert during the summer, but.... "It's a dry heat!" (HA! It's STILL hot!!). Can't imagine that heat with humidity. :eek:

 

To answer your question.. yes, we booked through SD when we kayaked, mainly because it was our first time to Croatia and we felt it was easier to arrange it through them.

 

Sorry to hear about your knee FT, but least you can enjoy and relax on SD before heading off to surgery! :D

[Jim Avery]

Thanks very much. This does help. So far haven't planned on many excursions (likely will be having knee surgery right when we return), but this one sounds like a must. Did you book the excursion through SD?

 

Next time I get on an airplane will be to head to Venice so counting down the days . . .this time two weeks from now, will actually be on board:) I hear Croatia can get pretty warm in the summer. Bet it won't approach our record setting heat wave here - could reach 104!

 

FT

Sorry about your knee, FT. I was once on SD with a reattached thumb.:eek: the staff is great at dispensing Painkillers.:D

[frequent traveler]

Just realized we are leaving next Wednesday and we don't have documents yet! Put in a call to the travel agent this morning. Not going electronic this time (at least I hope not). Need some new luggage tags!

FT

[Jim Avery]

Just realized we are leaving next Wednesday and we don't have documents yet! Put in a call to the travel agent this morning. Not going electronic this time (at least I hope not). Need some new luggage tags!

FT

 

Have fun packing. We like the blue leather/cream canvas tags we got last time. Are they still using them? Yall must have quite the PJ collection by now.:D

J.

[CDreamer]

Just realized we are leaving next Wednesday... FT

 

FT, have a wonderful time! Will look forward to reading your great reviews.

[frequent traveler]

Jim, have gotten rid of some of the very old PJs

CDreamer, finally gotten around to figuring out some of the things I want to do while in Venice (ZQ Vol has been planning for months - while I've been on the road almost non stop for work). Have arranged for private water taxi transfer from Marco Polo airport to Hotel Danielli. Gotten driver to and from Raleigh airport (getting home late on our return assuming we make our connection in JFK and don't want to make the drive after being up for 24 hrs). And reviewed tipping guides for all the countries we are visiting!

[CDreamer]

Jim, have gotten rid of some of the very old PJs

CDreamer, finally gotten around to figuring out some of the things I want to do while in Venice (ZQ Vol has been planning for months - while I've been on the road almost non stop for work). Have arranged for private water taxi transfer from Marco Polo airport to Hotel Danielli. Gotten driver to and from Raleigh airport (getting home late on our return assuming we make our connection in JFK and don't want to make the drive after being up for 24 hrs). And reviewed tipping guides for all the countries we are visiting!

 

Sometimes you can't always do extra planning in advance, but just wandering off the (well) beaten pathways can often lead to a fun adventure in itself! ;)

 

Private water taxis are expensive but (in my opinion) definitely worth it - esp when you have a bum knee, arrive tired, and just want to get to your hotel.

 

Re: tipping: Sounds like you've done your homework but always check to see if service is already included on the bill. If so, but the service was good and you want to leave an additional tip, 10% is usually the norm.

 

Have fun!

[Jim Avery]

We agree with CDreamer. Water taxis are worth it. What a view. We also have loved just "getting lost" in Venice. Some of the greatest little shops or cafes are down the narrow little alleys. Love Venice:D

[frequent traveler]

Well tickets made it to TA in ATL today. Hopefully they will arrive tomorrow or Monday. Moved from Deck 2 to Deck 4 . . . I can see a bigger spa bill in my future!

[frequent traveler]

Docs arrived but a bit disappointed. Back to leather envelope size folder. Small leather luggage tags but none of those blue and white stickie things that you write your cabin number on . I loved those. . There is a slot for a pen but no pen.

 

Oh well such a small thing. Now to think about packing.

[frequent traveler]

Actually narrowing down possible excursions. Would love to hear from anyone who has done them--

Sibenik Waterfalls

Split Riviera

Of course sea kayaking in Dubrovnik

acheron River Safari in Parga

Delphi (will be hot but can't wait for this one)

Grotto of St John & monastery on Patmos. This one I am not sure about. I hate being herded but private tour opportunities seem limited. If large group from SD goes I will hate.

Possibly "Footsteps of Alexander - 3 Ancient Cities" in kusadasi since we have already toured Ephesus

Thanks

FT

[CDreamer]

Actually narrowing down possible excursions. Would love to hear from anyone who has done them--

 

FT, we did some of these things on our Le Ponant cruise, so I can chime in from that standpoint...

 

Sibenik Waterfalls - a must! Beautiful area with impressive falls, and unlike our small Le Ponant group, I think SD takes time out for you to swim there, if you want. I know you have knee problems, FT, but as I remember the path you follow around the falls is pretty doable. I will say you won't be the only group there (by a long shot) but don't miss this stop.

 

Split Riviera - This looks like a good option. We LOVED Hvar, so if you can, don't miss this stop. There is an amazing fortress at the top of the hill with breathtaking views as far as you can see. There's also a shaded area on the "patio" of the fortress where you can sit and have a drink. We walked the trail up from the harbor (which might be a bit much for your knee), but I think you can get up there by car/bus too - ask Sea Dream if they'll actually take you up to the fortress. There are also other things to see do/see in Hvar, including the main square, strolling along the harbor (there are restaurants and small kiosks with local trinkets that line the harbor "boardwalk", etc), visiting the Franciscan monastery, or taking a dip at the pebbly beach near the monastery (remember: water shoes!) where the water is crystal clear and calm. Hvar, Rovinj, Sibenik Waterfalls, and Dubrovnik (when all the day trippers went home) were our favorite spots in Croatia.

 

We only had a day stop in Split itself. Definitely take time to see the cellars of the palace underneath the city of Split. Pretty fascinating (if you're into ruins like we are) and you can do it on your own.

 

Delphi (will be hot but can't wait for this one) - This one we did do with Sea Dream. Yes, it will be hot and there will be lots of walking but... WOW!! Not only are the ruins impressive but its mountainous setting is just spectacular. There's also a museum that houses recovered ancient artifacts from Delphi and a nearby concession stand (for drinks so you won't get dehydrated) at the base of the ruins.

 

You know you are addicted to SD when.. you get almost as excited for another CC poster's trip as you would for your own! :D

[frequent traveler]

[quote name=frequent traveler;34437863

Sibenik Waterfalls - a must! Beautiful area with impressive falls' date=' and unlike our small Le Ponant group, I think SD takes time out for you to swim there, if you want. I know you have knee problems, FT, but as I remember the path you follow around the falls is pretty doable. I will say you won't be the only group there (by a long shot) but don't miss this stop.

 

Split Riviera - This looks like a good option. We LOVED Hvar, so if you can, don't miss this stop. There is an amazing fortress at the top of the hill with breathtaking views as far as you can see. There's also a shaded area on the "patio" of the fortress where you can sit and have a drink. We walked the trail up from the harbor (which might be a bit much for your knee), but I think you can get up there by car/bus too - ask Sea Dream if they'll actually take you up to the fortress. There are also other things to see do/see in Hvar, including the main square, strolling along the harbor (there are restaurants and small kiosks with local trinkets that line the harbor "boardwalk", etc), visiting the Franciscan monastery, or taking a dip at the pebbly beach near the monastery (remember: water shoes!) where the water is crystal clear and calm. Hvar, Rovinj, Sibenik Waterfalls, and Dubrovnik (when all the day trippers went home) were our favorite spots in Croatia.

 

We only had a day stop in Split itself. Definitely take time to see the cellars of the palace underneath the city of Split. Pretty fascinating (if you're into ruins like we are) and you can do it on your own.

 

Delphi (will be hot but can't wait for this one) - This one we did do with Sea Dream. Yes, it will be hot and there will be lots of walking but... WOW!! Not only are the ruins impressive but its mountainous setting is just spectacular. There's also a museum that houses recovered ancient artifacts from Delphi and a nearby concession stand (for drinks so you won't get dehydrated) at the base of the ruins.

 

You know you are addicted to SD when.. you get almost as excited for another CC poster's trip as you would for your own! :D[/quote]

 

Thanks so much CDreamer. Knee just became a problem in the past 6 months and its amazing what pain medication willl allow you to do. May not be able to move as fast as I used to (like a bat out of .. . . ZQ Vol used to say) but I'm not going to miss all the wonderful sights. Too darn hot to do anything this weekend (humidity was unbearable and my car registered 109 Saturday pm) so I packed (have turned the yard over to the weeds officially). With about an hour to put all together, I'm ready to leave on Wed!.

FT

[Jim Avery]

We know you are heavy into last minute stuff for your flights tomorrow so Bon Voyage! Looking forward to the posts and pictures. Hope it is the best one yet.

Jim & Lois:D

[CDreamer]

We know you are heavy into last minute stuff for your flights tomorrow so Bon Voyage! Looking forward to the posts and pictures. Hope it is the best one yet.

Jim & Lois:D

 

I think I've been on FB too much - was looking for the "Like" button to Jim's post! :confused:

 

Anyway, what Jim said, FT. Have a great time and we'll look fwd to hearing all about your cruise.

[frequent traveler]

I think I've been on FB too much - was looking for the "Like" button to Jim's post! :confused:

 

Anyway, what Jim said, FT. Have a great time and we'll look fwd to hearing all about your cruise.

 

Getting really excited - Knock on wood. :D Am leaving without any work hanging over my head & the Swedes & Global management are taking summer break too. Sea Dream blog is building anticipation - today had kayaking in Dubrovnik posted.

 

Will definitely post - however, I don't take pictures (my Blackberry has several of my feet that I didn't mean to take):rolleyes: so narrative will be it until ZQ Vol blogs.

 

FT

[DisneyJen]

Bon voyage and safe travels FT and zqvol:D

 

Will be living vicariously through your reports and zqvol's photos!!

[zqvol]

All packed except for the last items in the carry on. Ready to go!

[DisneyJen]

All packed except for the last items in the carry on. Ready to go!

 

Great!! How many bags are you checking (knowing FT probably none for her:p)?

 

So excited for you both as your are covering parts of the world I hope to see on SD next season (fingers crossed, pixie dust tossed!).

[frequent traveler]

Great!! How many bags are you checking (knowing FT probably none for her:p)?

 

So excited for you both as your are covering parts of the world I hope to see on SD next season (fingers crossed, pixie dust tossed!).

 

We are each checking one bag. If I didn't have to take laptop for work issues could travel lighter, but can't leave for 2.5 weeks without. However, checked bag will not be labeled "heavy" and carry-ons are "small" so pretty lightweight for this length of trip - "charging" equipment and network security for laptop, phone, Ipad etc weighs more than anything. Even had room for a "bag" within the luggage in case of shopping . . .

 

FT

[DisneyJen]

We are each checking one bag. If I didn't have to take laptop for work issues could travel lighter, but can't leave for 2.5 weeks without. However, checked bag will not be labeled "heavy" and carry-ons are "small" so pretty lightweight for this length of trip - "charging" equipment and network security for laptop, phone, Ipad etc weighs more than anything. Even had room for a "bag" within the luggage in case of shopping . . .

 

FT

 

Very impressive! What do you mean in case of shopping???:eek:

[CDreamer]

What do you mean in case of shopping???:eek:

 

LOL DJ --- Exactly what I was thinking! :D

 

FT and zqvol, safe travels and we'll look fwd to your updates!