It’s been an absolutely beautiful day here in the old town of Dubrovnik, Croatia. We started the morning off with a great sunrise cruise approaching our anchorage just outside the city walls, and after breakfast the tenders shuttled us to shore to begin our tour of the city. Our two local guides started the tour in the main square, and we made our way through busy streets and narrow walkways as they narrated the history of this fascinating city. Much of Dubrovnik was destroyed in the siege and bombings of 1991, but since then there has been a phenomenal effort to restore the old city, and it looks as good today as it ever has.
At the end of the city tour, our guides offer to continue for those who are interested in walking up the stairs of the ramparts and touring along the top of the city walls as we make our way back to the Ploce Gates. These impressive ramparts date originally from the 13th century and hold seven different fortified towers or castles. They encircle the old city with a circumference of more than a mile and a half, and it’s an amazing experience as we walk along these historic ramparts. From the high vantage point of the city walls, photographers enjoy beautiful vistas overlooking the city, a great opportunity to take stunning images overlooking the old town of Dubrovnik.
Once everyone is finished walking the city ramparts, guests have the option of taking a tender back to the ship, or eating on shore. Our next activity is in the afternoon when National Geographic Expert Grace Fielder gives us a presentation on the influential Fourth Crusade, which established Venetian dominance in the region for hundreds of years and solidified the division between the Catholic and Orthodox churches. Following Grace’s lecture, we take tenders back to the old town for a special musical performance at the Dominican cloister featuring the traditional a cappella ‘klapa’ singing that is famous in Croatia. This unforgettable performance is a certainly a highlight of the day, and afterwards we head back to the ship for dinner or those who want to stay and eat in town remain ashore.
After dinner, photographic instructors Max and Ian lead a night photography workshop in the old town. A group of photographers head back out into the city to photograph well-lit buildings, statues, and the waterfront. We walk away with great photos and amazing memories. It’s been an action packed day, and one that we will never forget.
