During the night, we docked in Spitz, Austria, a small town along the Danube River. After breakfast, we went on a walking tour of Spitz. The town was so small that you could practically see from one end to the other.

One of the first things our guide made sure to show us was the flood markings on the side of a building. Spitz keeps a record of the water levels from major floods that have occurred in the town. You can see where the floodwaters reached on August 14, 2002. One of the things the town seemed most proud of was the flood wall that was built beginning in 2010. It proved its worth by preventing the town from experiencing another devastating flood in 2013.

Linda is sitting on the flood wall. The metal strip with the holes is where the top of the flood wall attaches.

​The surrounding area is covered with vineyards. It was interesting to learn that only every other row between the grapevines is mowed. This helps boost biodiversity and naturally control pests. The rose bushes planted at the ends of the rows attract bees for pollination. The town is also known for its cable ferry, connecting Spitz and Arnsdorf and crossing the Danube River. The nearest bridges are many miles away in either direction.

There were a couple of interesting things we saw during our walk. One was an outdoor vending machine where visitors could buy drinks and snacks while touring the area. I also passed a table where someone was selling homemade apricot juice and apricot jam. Another unique feature of the town was the old train trestles, which have been preserved and now support the modern railway tracks. It was a very short tour, lasting only a little over an hour.

The second excursion of the day was called "Dine with the Saas Family" at Weingut Nikolaihof. Everyone from the ship participated in this excursion. This family-owned winery not only produces excellent wine but also makes beauty products using by-products from the winemaking process, along with linseeds grown on the property.
​We all gathered in the courtyard while the owner explained the history of the land, how long it had been in her family, and how her family continues to operate the business today. We toured the wine cellar and tasting room before enjoying lunch outside. 

​The owner was especially proud that many of the vegetables served came directly from her garden. The salad even contained edible flowers. I have now learned that you can eat daylily blossoms. I'm still not quite sure how to describe their flavor, though.
After lunch, we returned to the ship and set sail for our next destination.

​That afternoon, the ship cruised through the beautiful Wachau Valley. We were supposed to enjoy commentary about the area's history and landmarks as we sailed through the valley, but it began to rain. Everyone on the sundeck made a mad dash for the piano bar. Once inside, we were treated to afternoon tea, complete with finger sandwiches and a variety of beverages. The three of us each ordered a pot of tea. It was very relaxing to sit there, sip our tea, and watch the scenery drift by.

​Around 5:00, the captain came in and gave a short presentation, complete with visuals, explaining how the locks work to raise and lower the ship. I thought I already understood the process, but I still found it quite interesting. After a brief talk about what to expect the next day in Linz, we all headed to dinner.