We arrived early into the Bay of Naples, with a cool morning mist draped over the water like a soft blanket. As Breakaway eased into the cruise port, we caught our first glimpse of the rugged Amalfi Coast in the distance, its dramatic cliffs just starting to emerge from the haze. Off to the side, the peaks of Capri rose quietly from the sea, promising a day of sun-drenched adventures ahead. Vesuvius rises just beyond the city, calm and quiet now, but always reminding you that Naples is built in the shadow of history.

We began our Easter Sunday adventure in Naples the moment we stepped off the ship and onto the bustling streets near the cruise port. From there, we climbed up toward Piazza Municipio, taking in the historic Castel Nuovo towering above us. The city was already alive with energy—a mix of locals and fellow travelers out to explore.

Via Toledo greeted us next, Naples’ famous shopping street, pulsing with activity. Crowds moved shoulder to shoulder, darting between storefronts and street vendors. The festive atmosphere, heightened by the Easter holiday, made the experience feel more like a celebration than a stroll.

Seeking some peace and a touch of history, we detoured to the Santa Chiara Complex. This serene spot offered a breath of calm, with its beautiful cloisters and echoes of monastic life. Then we made our way down Via Benedetto Croce, part of the ancient Spaccanapoli, where craft stalls spilled into the streets selling everything from hand-painted tiles to quirky nativity figurines.

We paused for coffee at Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, watching families gather and children chase pigeons under the shadow of centuries-old buildings. It was a perfect place to take a break and enjoy the city’s layered charm.

Our final stop before returning to the ship was the Complesso Monumentale di Santa Maria La Nova. While often overlooked by tourists, this historic complex is a hidden gem. Beyond its stunning Renaissance facade and tranquil cloister lies a curious connection to a legendary figure—Vlad the Impaler, the real-life inspiration for Dracula. Some believe his final resting place may lie within this very church. The theory is based on documents suggesting that Vlad’s remains were moved to Naples by his daughter, who had married into the Neapolitan nobility. While the truth remains shrouded in mystery, the story adds an eerie twist to the site’s otherwise peaceful atmosphere.

As we made our way back to the cruise terminal, the streets remained packed, the city bursting with life and Easter joy. Naples, with its history, chaos, and heart, had given us a memorable day—one steeped in culture, mystery, and the kind of vibrant energy only this city can offer.

As we sail out of Naples, the views are nothing short of stunning. The golden light stretches across the bay, lighting up the surrounding hills and casting a warm glow over the water. It’s one of those perfect evenings—mild enough to enjoy a drink out on deck as the sun slowly dips toward the horizon.

Dinner tonight is at La Cucina, the ship’s specialty Italian restaurant, and it feels like the right choice after a day exploring Naples. We start with Caprese salad and crispy calamari, followed by rich plates of carbonara, shrimp fettuccine, and pork medallions. The Caprese, sadly, is the weak link—the mozzarella just didn’t live up to expectations—but everything else is flavorful and satisfying. When it comes to dessert, I never pass up tiramisu if it’s on offer. Peter goes for the cheesecake, and both end the meal on a sweet note. Service is friendly and attentive throughout.

Later, we drift over to the Bliss Ultralounge, where the music starts strong with crowd-pleasing pop hits. The room has a good vibe, full of energy, but thins out a bit when the DJ veers into more eclectic territory—his playlist clearly more for himself than the crowd. No big deal. We slip away to Shakers instead, winding down the night with a quieter drink before heading to bed. A perfect mix of movement and mellow, rounding off a full day in style.