Cruise Diva's CRUISE
DIARY
~ Istanbul to Genoa ~
Cruise the
Strait of Messina & Explore Rome, Italy
June 16, 2002
What a way to begin the day—knowing
I had nothing more urgent to do than choose a spot for coffee and
croissants. The Observation Lounge or Panorama Lounge? The Panorama
was closer to my suite and I was joined by one of our Gentlemen Hosts.
A light "breakfast" was in order because we were looking
forward to the day's culinary highlight—the Galley Brunch.
 |
|
Fanciful
vegetable sculptures decorate culinary treats at the sumptuous
Galley Brunch |
Served in the Restaurant, we were
invited to "raid the galley" where Silver Whisper's
Executive Chef and his staff anticipated our arrival. Stations with
salads, appetizers, breads, entrées, and desserts adorned with ice
carvings, vegetable sculptures, and flower arrangements awaited our
inspection and destruction. I did my part, returning twice.
Another special event during our last
sea day was cruising through the narrow Strait of Messina and then
sailing past the volcanic island of Stromboli. We were so close, we
could clearly see the steam of the world's most active volcano, which
has been erupting for 6000 years. It must be quite a nighttime sight
when the flames and lava are visible.
Sadly, our cruise was winding down,
although the Captain's Farewell Reception and Crew Parade began a
festive evening. After a final lobster dinner and variety show
featuring all the entertainers, it was Disco Night in The Bar where
the dance floor rocked until the wee hours.
June 17, 2002
From our berth in Civitavecchia, the
Eternal City—Rome—was about a
90-minute drive. In addition to guided tours, Silver Whisper offered a
coach transfer to the city for independent exploration and shopping.
Bus service was also available to Tarquinia, a medieval city where the
archeological museum contains Italy's most complete collection of
Etruscan finds, and a shuttle took passengers into Civitavecchia to
pore through its shops and market.
Packed and ready for an early morning
departure, my friends and I decided to test the Silver Whisper's
galley one more time with a "grand" en suite cocktail and
dinner party. We began with canapés and wine... but wait! Something
was missing. Wouldn't some guacamole and chips be a satisfying
addition to our celebration? One call and we had them made to order in
no time at all.
Our dinner was served, course by
course, as we sailed into the evening, toasting one another and vowing
to sail together again soon.
Next -> Debarkation
& Lasting Impressions
Back to the Istanbul
to Genoa Cruise Diary Index
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