September 29:Omiš

After several days out in the Adriatic sailing from island to island the ship heads back to the mainland and the town of Omis situated at the mouth of the Cetina River. The plan for the day is to cycle up the river gorge to a "entry point" for rafting through the rapids of the rushing waters or to bike down the other side of the gorge. The group splits about evenly with words of "lunch at the bottom"! The river at this time of year reveals Class II and III category rapids which give a thrill to ride down the gorge. Narrow in spots with branches hanging over the river's edge requires expert guiding, but with the group's effort to paddle along. The art of staying dry is lost immediately, but no one cares.

The afternoon is spent on the ship as it sails to the harbor of Split, the second largest city in Croatia. During this time a traditional lunch is served of a "Croatian pizza" -- thinly rolled dough covered with garlic, swiss chard, and layered with another thin crust -- all baked in a fire oven covered with the embers. After docking those who have never experienced the wonders of this old city join a guided walking tour. Others use the time to explore on their own.