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    Awaiting Your Return From Shore | This 
    tiny town on the Italian Riviera was strategically planned at the tip of a 
    rocky peninsula overlooking the Gulf of La Spezia. Its 12th-century tall, 
    narrow houses climb precipitously up the hillside from the sea. Many of them 
    were at one time connected to the walls of an old citadel, which made it 
    easy for the population to seek shelter during times of attack. Portovenere 
    is built on different levels; visitors enjoy strolling through the narrow 
    streets. From Portovenere it is possible to explore the ruggedly beautiful 
    Ligurian villages of Cinque Terre. Accessible by boat, railway or on foot, 
    Cinque Terre has remained relatively isolated from the rest of the world for 
    centuries, which has helped to retain the medieval look of the "Five Lands."
 
      
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        Pier Information. The ship is scheduled to be at anchor. Guests 
        will be taken ashore via the ship's tenders. The village center is 
        within walking distance of the landing pier. |  
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        Shopping. The town square has several shops where you can buy 
        the famous wines and olive oil of Cinque Terre. There are also boutiques 
        that offer a variety of leather articles and Italian fashions. On 
        Sundays, better stores are usually closed and only tourist-oriented 
        shops are open. |  
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        Cuisine. Typical local fare includes fresh seafood and a fish 
        soup known as zuppa di pesce. Be sure to try such specialties as 
        focaccia and pickled anchovies. |  
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        Other SightsSan Pietro. This 13th-century church stands above a grotto named 
        for Lord Byron. Part of the structure dates back as far as the 6th 
        century. Brightly painted with black and white stripes, this striking 
        landmark can be spotted from out at sea. From the terrace enjoy a 
        spectacular view of the Gulf of La Spezia and the hills of Cinque Terre.
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    Awaiting Your Return 
    From Shore | 
  
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    Complimentary 
    Spirits Await | 
    
    Return to Your 
    Suite and Sail Away to The Next Adventure | 
    
    Entertainment 
    and Dancing Await You |