We arrived in Limassol around 8am and I was on deck to watch the sail-in. I saw flying fish outside the harbour and there were reports of a dolphin at the stern. I was on an all-day excursion to North Cyprus so we set off at 9.30. We had hardly left Limassol before we had to stop to let off a man who had forgotten his passport! The P&O rep refused to make us all go back to the ship so a taxi was called to collect him (at his expense - after all we had been reminded at least 4 times before we left about this). It was a 2½ hour drive to Bellapais and Kyrenia via Nicosia. At the checkpoint or Green Line our passports were checked off against a P&O manifest and no photos were allowed for about ½ mile either side. We then carried on to Bellapais. This is a pretty village with abbey ruins, where we had some free time – after trying to find toilets after such a long and early trip! Then I explored the abbey ruins and village. We gathered together again for a guided tour of the abbey before returning to the coach and the drive to Kyrenia. For me this was to be one of the highlights as I had always wanted to see the pretty harbour, guarded by the spectacular castle ruins. However, we only had ½ hour to explore the castle, harbour and shops. I started off in the castle but realised I would never be able to see it all in the time so walked down the steep steps to the harbour and right around to the other side to take photos of both. It was rushed and could have been so much more enjoyable with more time. I then climbed back up the steps and walked to the restaurant where we were all having lunch. The guide had promised a three course meal with wine. Those of us who had chosen vegetarian got a plate of luke-warm pasta with some tomatoes. Many of us complained to the P&O rep in the coach on the way back (and later had a £20 refund). All in all it was a good day – the weather was perfect again – clear blue skies and sun. Warm enough to wear t-shirts but not too hot for the walking.
We were a little late back on board and the Captain, Steve Howarth was making another announcement that Commodore Burgoine would be taking over the captaincy from Piraeus onwards. The sunset was beautiful as we sailed for Haifa. We all joined up for drinks in the Yacht & Compass before going in for dinner. Sadly, after an hilarious comment from a waiter, we all dissolved into laughter again, resulting in another complaint ! Bed straight after dinner as very tired and an early start tomorrow.
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