Chania, Crete

Now to the port stop of the day. They saved the best for last. Chania, Crete is the best. It is one of the largest Greek islands and can be reached by cruise ship or ferry. It is clean, the people are very nice and the beaches are beautiful. We got off the ship early and went to two local markets before the crowds arrived. We had the whole place to ourselves. There is an old town and a new town. The best was the old town and old harbor. The place has been settled for thosands of years. The old town has narrow, winding streets with good shops and cafes. We found an old, beautiful synagogue which has been in constant use since the 1500's with the exception of the nazi era when all the Jews were rounded up and killed. There is a small, active congregation at present. Upon entering this tiny, special place a sense of peace and well-being washed over me. I can't explain it but It felt so good. We took a glass bottom boat tour of the harbor where the captain (Captain Nick, what else?) invited people to go snorkling with him. Jerry took him up on it. Not me. The water in Greece this time of year is too cold for this Florida baby. Jerry said it was about 72 degrees, according to his innacurate pool thermometer that he drags with him all around the world. Anyway, Captain Nick was great and the boat ride was really fun. We both decided that we loved Crete and could spend more time here. We are now underway under partly cloudy skies and 80 degree temperature. We have a sea day tomorrow and that's it. We were invited to tour the bridge tomorrow, which we will certainly do. I landove being on the bridge with all those cute young officers. It is really very interesting and lots of fun. Sometimes they let me drive the boat. I will be very sad and sorry to leave. We have had two wonderful cruises and I am ready for the next one (to be determined).