Sailing at 11am to Vienna, Austria. We didn't go for the early optional tour of Melk's Benedictine Abbey. Only so many you can take in ... Was nice to have a more relaxing morning after a long day yesterday.

We sailed through the Wachau Valley around noon, so went up to the skydeck for the stunning scenery. Ross braved the chill factor longer than I did, and was rewarded by getting some quite lovely photos.

We arrived in Vienna late afternoon, and had an earlier buffet dinner as we were booked to go to the Royal Waltz concert in a Renaissance Palace.

We took coaches into Vienna, about a 15 minute drive from where the ship is docked. A lot of the ladies got all dolled up, was quite amusing! What a fabulous location. Buildings are so amazingly restored here.

The concert included a small orchestra conducted by the first violinist, some solo and duets by a couple of opera singers and even some ballet. Quite an intimate performance with probably no more than 100 in the audience in a large room. Apparently this is how concerts were held back in the day. Music written by Mozart and Strauss, both claimed as Viennese composers.

A wonderful evening, magical ... right up to being offered candy by Patty!!

On the way back to the ship we went through the city, all lit up, looked like the backdrop for a fairytale!