Split - Monday 9 July 2012

The alluring port of Split was built on a small, easily defended peninsula alongside the finest natural harbour in the Adriatic.  The deep, safe anchorage has made it the most important port in Dalmatia and Croatia’s second largest city.

Historians speculate that the original settlers here were Dalmatian tribes (David says he still hasn’t seen any dogs…..) who were later joined by Greek merchants, who saw the value of the harbour and its proximity to the rich interior. 

The town today is a paradise for the wandering visitor. 

Today presented some challenges for us as tourists.  We had to be taken ashore using the ship’s tenders.  These were different from the ones we boarded in Santorini, as those tenders were owned by the port – and they were a little smaller.  Crown Princess’ tenders seat 150 people!  Due to the high volume of ‘traffic’ in the harbour, it took the crew quite a while to transport groups from the ship to the port.  We waited for three hours to board our tender!  The ships’ crew were very good in keeping passengers up to date about the queue, so it wasn’t as if we were sitting around and waiting.  We amused ourselves with other activities before heading to the dining room and taking our tickets.

Once taken to the shore, we walked the half mile distance from the ship into the centre of Split, to the Palace, Cathedral and shopping district.  Croatia has its own currency called ‘kuna’ (HRK).  We were told that businesses may or may not accept Euros or USD – so I exchanged $US10 at the port – for HRK50.70.  Of course, we had the credit card as ‘back up’.  The town was very clean and tidy, and lots of people wandering around.  Huge market stalls set up - looked a little like Bulcock Street on a Sunday.  It was very hot - David and I found a bar with free wi-fi and air-conditioning - bonus!  Took ourselves in, the waiter spoke english - we ordered two pints - total 38 kuna.  Quick wi-fi. 

Returned to the ship for an evening of dinner, photo shopping, bingo and the highlight of the trip - the 'International Crew Show' where we were entertained by the crew - who sang, danced and performed hilarious skits - it was the best evening!