Sulina
Sulina is uniquely positioned on the right bank of the Sulina Channel, within the town boundaries, marking the end of the Danube River's 2,860 km journey from Germany to the Black Sea. This location places it at the heart of the vast Danube Delta, a UNESCO "Reservation of the Biosphere" covering approximately 5,640 sq km. This natural wetland is a paradise of channels, lakes, and islands, renowned for sheltering over 300 bird species, a wide variety of fish (including royal sturgeon), and 1,150 types of plants.
Sulina functions as a freeport and is the commercial center of the Delta. While the guide doesn't specify docking type, ships likely dock directly at a pier along the channel. In the late 1980s, the town saw significant expansion, including 500 new dwellings, an hotel, and a shipping center designed to handle 3,500 ships annually.
Getting Around from the Port
The port is located within Sulina town, suggesting that many local points of interest are within walking distance. For travel further afield or simply for convenience, taxis are a readily available and very low-priced option. However, a significant warning for independent travelers: always insist that the taxi driver uses the meter, as there is a tendency for drivers to attempt to overcharge foreign passengers.
Attractions and Activities
The primary attraction in Sulina is the surrounding Danube Delta itself. With only 8-10 hours in port, a focused boat trip into the Delta is highly recommended to experience its unique natural beauty. Look for local operators offering excursions into the network of channels, lakes, and reed islands. This allows for excellent birdwatching opportunities and a chance to observe the diverse flora and fauna of this UNESCO Biosphere Reservation. No specific tour prices are provided, but exploring the Delta by boat is the quintessential Sulina experience.
Shopping
Sulina offers a range of traditional Romanian arts and crafts. Popular souvenir options include wood, lace, and embroidered products, as well as contemporary porcelain, ceramic dolls, crystal, and glass items. Orthodox icons, painted on wood or glass, are also widely available. It is advisable to carefully check all items for quality before making a purchase.
Dining
While no specific restaurants are mentioned, Romania is generally considered relatively inexpensive by Western standards. Fresh fish from the Danube Delta would be a local specialty to look for. Shops in Sulina are known for their exceptionally long and predictable opening hours. Many display a "non-stop" sign, indicating they are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Those not operating 24/7 typically open from 8 AM until 10 or 11 PM, with some extending hours until 2 or 3 AM during the summer months.
Safety
Independent travelers should exercise caution when using taxis. There is a risk that drivers may try to overcharge foreign visitors, so always insist on the driver using the meter for your journey.
Currency and Language
Currency: The official currency is the Romanian Leu (RON). Romania is considered relatively cheap compared to Western European standards. Approximately 1 US Dollar converts to 2.3 Lei, and 1 Euro converts to 3.55 Lei. While some establishments might accept Euros or US Dollars, it is generally not recommended as you could face an additional surcharge of around 20%. Cash transactions are common, particularly for smaller purchases. However, major credit and debit cards like Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted in many shops and most supermarkets.
Language: The official language is Romanian.
Communication: For all emergency calls, dial 112, which is the pan-European standard. Many cafes in towns and cities across Romania provide free WiFi access for their customers.