So here we are already done first cruise on the MSC Slendida, The Splendida was a BIG ship, she was glitzy and had many bars and lounges to accommodate the 4000 passengers (although our cruise was NOT full…more likely to do with back to school schedule for Europe) but at no time did the ship appear crowded ….the passengers were very spread out. The dining room was well managed and the gourmet meals were quite small in portion size, this was good as it enabled us to have and enjoy 2/3 courses without feeling bloated. Our dining partners were a lovely young couple from Italy, Marco and Arianna, both students and very much wanting to improve their English, so conversation was great each evening we learnt much about Italy and they expanded their English. We did not engage in the entertainment shows as we were on first sitting for dining and the late show was too late for our desire to explore new cities each day. Shopping was good and yes, some purchases were made. Cabin was spacious and cabin crew kept it neat and tidy, but NO animal towels on this cruise. Laundry service was excellent. Cocktail list was adequate but not extensive. I would give this ship a high recommendation. Anyhow, time to disembark to the familiar town of Genoa to board a coach to Venice. On the road by 10am and battling the morning traffic to get out of Genoa after a 4000 passenger ship adds many, many taxis to the congestion. Soon out onto the motorway driving along (on the right hand side of the road) past the towns on the hills and the ploughed fields ready for their winter crops …some fields of tomato plants with splashes of red and many grape vines too. Soon we pull into a very familiar place …an Autogrille….30 minute break before heading off to the Venice Port (arrive about 2:30pm) A speedy embarkation and before long we are on the top deck of MSC Sinfonia (all decks named after composers…we are on Tchaikovsky…others Bach, Beethoven etc) and with the help of a few tug boats we are cruising through Venice…a fabulous sight from this level. Passing St Mark’s Square etc and really seeing the problem of Venice “sinking”…some towers are on more of a lean than those in Pisa!!!!!! A very spectacular sight !

Next port Split, Croatia