Cape Sounion & Aegina Island
We woke up this morning at the southernmost tip of the peninsula of Attica, Cape Sounion, with a view of the impressive Temple of Poseidon. Although we’d felt the effects of the beginnings of a strong meltemi the night before, many emerged to enjoy breakfast and take in the site. After breakfast we had time to start packing for our departure with a little melancholy in our hearts, knowing it was the last day.
By mid-morning our Panoramics teams met for a Jeopardy duel in the lounge. It was an energetic battle of the minds. The Athenians dominated the questions, and the Spartans were able to come from behind, leaving both teams victorious. Later the teams got back together in the lounge to share their “Odyssey” stories. Many spectators delighted in the tales that consisted of brave heroes (Eleni and Super Cooper), dangerous monsters, magical creatures and, of course, triumphant endings. It was the perfect way to end our Panoramic events.
We ate lunch on board the Panorama and then prepared to take Zodiacs into the port of Aegina, the island on which the incredible Temple of Aphaia is located. It was quite the strategic dance getting everyone to shore, with the many sailboats pouring into the port to avoid the gale. Once on shore we boarded a bus to head to one of the best-preserved Doric temples in all of Greece. We really enjoyed the picturesque drive with its contrast of bright green pine trees and the clear blue sky.
The temple perched on the top of the mountain is a sight to take one’s breath away. We enjoyed touring the site with our supreme guides who have made this journey real and unforgettable; consistently bringing to life the history and mythology that makes Greece such a wondrous place. Many took a moment to explore the port town, visit some shops and enjoy some ice cream before venturing back to the ship to prepare for our farewell cocktail party and final dinner together.
Before the party we invited our Panoramics teams to the lounge to thank them with a special gift for their truly engaged efforts and hard-work in all of our events this past week. The amount of effort and desire to learn and truly be present made watching the teams inspiring and encouraging. The captain gave his final goodbye then we headed down to the dining room for our last gourmet meal prepared by our amazing chef. It was obvious that great friendships had been made and it was such a pleasure to listen to the joyous sounds in the dining room.
With the final recognitions by Captain Mark of those that have worked so hard to make our journey memorable, we end our trip. Michelle honors us with a beautiful poem by Constantine Cavafy titled “Ithaka,” that reminds us to always remember, “And if you find her poor, Ithaka hasn't deceived you. So wise you have become, of such experience, that already you'll have understood what these Ithakas mean.”
