We waved farewell to Malta as we sailed out of Valletta and started to settle into our sea rhythm. Of course, before we even departed our first priority was to book our spa appointments for the week ahead… just massages and hair for me this time, there’s not enough time for anything else. 

We were delighted to meet one of the Christie’s experts from New York who was going to enhance our visit to the Venice Biennale in so many ways. She and her husband are on their first Ponant cruise, and excited to try it. 

Sicily was fun for a few hours, this time we visited the beautiful old city of Noto. The sun was extra shiny, the sky deep blue, there was a faint breeze but otherwise it was hot, and just what the doctor ordered. I surprised myself by enjoying some of the basilicas (churches aren’t really my thing) - the interiors were stunning and at one the organist was rehearsing which was very loud and majestic. 

Then back on ship for our first gala of the cruise: it’s always fun to meet the officers and managers in a poolside setting, and this was no exception. My cruise “list” has been started and filling up with excellent new friends from all over the place - NYC, California and the mid-west, Genève, Australia, France, Kiwiland and even a couple of Venezualans who live in Miami. Additionally, I was on this ship a few months ago, and several of the crew are the same. I love my Ponant family.

Lecce was okay, Bari pretty, but next up, Alberobello to see the trulli was interesting. Then on to Ancona and Jesi but I opted for a ship day as last night was just too exciting for me. Over multiple martinis in the bar, we noticed a couple of guys not previously seen by us, and our curiosity was piqued… turned out to be the COO and the newly appointed chief guest and hospitality officer visiting from Ponant HQ in Marseilles. It was his fourth day with the company, and his first time aboard. Those of you who know me will appreciate how much I loved these new contacts. Of course, exactly what happens on the ship stays on the ship… but it was great opportunity to avoid the heat onshore and share the benefit of my ten Ponant cruises with someone who’s paid to receive my feedback! And we all know how much I love to talk, LOL. 

Finally a pleasant enough day in Ravenna to visit Dante’s tomb and study the mosaics as we lead up to the main event: the 61st Venice Biennale over the next few days. We are super excited. 

This was my first time on the Adriatic, and it’s every bit and beautiful as the Mediterranean. We didn’t get to swim in the sea this cruise, but I’ll be returning for sure.