This morning Sea Cloud II anchored off the Istrian coast, and we came ashore to the beautiful town of Rovinj — a picturesque gem on the Adriatic, where pastel-colored buildings spill down to the sea and fishing boats bob in the harbor.
We began our day with a walking tour through Rovinj’s old town, winding our way up narrow cobbled streets and taking in views of the sea from St. Euphemia’s Church. The town's mix of Venetian and Croatian influences made every corner a photo opportunity. After our stroll, we made our way to the San Tomasso winery, where we were welcomed with a tasting of locally produced wines; the crisp Malvazija and bold Teran offered a perfect introduction to Istria’s winemaking traditions. Set in a peaceful countryside location, it was a relaxed and flavorful pause in our day.
In the afternoon we traveled to Pula, a city with a dramatically different atmosphere rooted in Roman history. Our walking tour took us first to the Pula Amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved Roman arenas in the world. Standing inside, it was easy to imagine the roar of crowds and the drama of ancient spectacles. We continued through the streets of Pula’s old town to the Temple of Augustus, where we admired its elegant Roman columns and learned about the city's long and layered past. After the tour, guests had some free time to explore the streets of Pula, enjoy a coffee, take a swim in the Adriatic Sea, or browse local shops before heading back to the ship.
As the sun set and Sea Cloud II prepared to sail, we reflected on a day filled with contrast — coastal charm in the morning, classical grandeur in the afternoon — all woven together by the rich tapestry of Istrian culture.
