TSH’s bag has arrived at the ship – in Venice. So he thinks it is Christmas, having forgotten what he packed 4 weeks ago. Diva is preparing to give up half the walk-in wardrobe.
The Captain of the
Silver Moon has announced that several guests have tested positive for Covid
and are in quarantine, either on or off the ship. None are seriously ill. He
suggests that guests should wear masks when not eating or drinking (not much of
the time, then). TSH and Diva are already being cautious, as usual.
The authorities in Venice have now banned cruise ships from the lagoon in order to protect their heritage. So the Silver Moon is docked in Fusina, which is almost 2 hours away from Venice, with a combination of boat and bus transfer. The docking place is more than half an hour away from the cruise terminal, which presents many logistical difficulties for crew and guests.
On the first day in
port, TSH and Diva went on an excursion to the islands of Murano and Burano.
This involved a 1 hour boat ride, demonstrations of glass and lace making and
very pleasant walks around places that are like Venice without quite as many
crowds. Sunny but cold.
On the second day in port, the journey was judged too onerous by many guests, including TSH and Diva. So it is a sea-day in port.
No excursion today, just an unescorted walk around Kotor, which is one of the best ports along this coast. Interesting old walled town, good walks along the water-front, colourful flower market and a magnificent sail-away through a fjord.
They were not all doctors but they were all wearing white
coats, which was enough. Diva was having some problems with her ears and went
to the Medical Centre for syringing. She does not really have a problem with
that procedure, which she has had many times. But it all felt a bit panicky in
a strange location. One doctor to syringe, one to hold the basin (which Diva
can normally manage herself), one to stand in front and issue orders about not
moving, shaking or flinching. And the last to watch in horror from across the room. Ears are much improved but might need a return visit. Good that basic medical care is included in the cruise package.
Diva is wearing a pair of sparkly but very comfortable shoes
during the day and is receiving many compliments.
Fedex Customer Services sent TSH a triumphant email to say
that they had sorted his issues, fulfilled their contract and delivered his bag
to Athens. Pity he has no immediate plans to go there. Silversea have (maybe)
hired a truck to move the bags to Venice.
