Being almost the only passengers left on the ship while the rest of our fellow passengers were on their excursion to Fisherman's Island meant that we had a very quiet and relaxed two hour sail into the port of Kherson and a further two or three hours available to explore the town on our own. We took full advantage of the opportunity and had a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon mooching about the city.

Programme for 18th June (reminder)

The region of Kherson, also called Tauria, is distinguished by its wide steppes, never-ending wheat fields, gardens, vineyards and areas of melon cultivation, The town of the same name is the administrative centre for the province. The region has had many rulers, including the Mongols, Turks and Cossacks. In 1771, it became part of the Russian Empire. A fort and a shipyard with the name of "Cherson" was built here is 1778 under the command of Catherine II. The first ships that were launched here established the Russian Black Sea fleet's fame.