The journey to Corfu was a lot of excitement. It was not only the first trip longer than one day but also our first romance under the starry sky. Sailing under the cover of night and shifting the duties during the trip was the one new and unforgettable experience that will stay with us until the end of our life’s adventures. As we sailed the wind under full sail, Meermowe liked to be played with the waves switching from one to another until they are full of defiance powerfully struck in the bow and splashed us from all sides. The land was not there, wherever we turned, our view is terminated on the horizon. We had plenty of time to socialize. While Dino and Pipo particularly enjoy reading crime novel, I loved their comments. They could not agree whether criminals should be killed now or postpone it for later.

In the afternoon the wind died down and the sea calmed. We started the engine and moved on. For dinner we enjoyed a delicious stew with meat and vegetables, which I prepared the day before departure. The night was quiet and peaceful, moonlight reflected on the sea surface like small sparkling pearls. We sat at the helm until the smell of

coffee spread cockpit. Happy and in love, Meermowe wore us slowly further and further. We wished that never dawns. All that could be heard in the middle of the night was well known music of the boat engine that woke us up from the dream.

When I think of Greece before my eyes I see pictures of the Parthenon in Athens, the magnificent Meteors, romantic Santorini, beautiful beaches and a few thousand years old cultural heritage. Greece is a very beautiful country, the cradle of civilization and a place where the laws of mythology ruled over millions of years. Whichever party you enter in Greece, you will come across the greeks favorite word “filoxenia”, which means hospitality.

Island of Corfu or Kerkyra, is the oldest Greek island in the Ionian Sea that is separated from Albania wide strait just 3 km. According to Greek mythology, the island was named after the daughter of the river god Asopa, nymph Kerkira, abducted by Poseidon. Because of its lush vegetation, this island the Greeks also call the “Green Island”.

It was eleven o’clock in the morning, when we arrived in Corfu, the main customs port. Procedures around registration ended relatively quickly, after which we sailed in Gouvia, where we booked a berth two days before. Marina was full of sailboats and catamarans. We were forced to tied at the private berth since only two places, which is the marina has had available, have not been comply with the size of our boat. We were tired and sleepy, so we decided to stay the rest of the day on board.

The next morning, while my husband was still asleep, I used to meet Marina.  Among the wide range of facilities that we had available, swimming pool was the most interesting for me, which made me happy. Among the wide range of facilities that we had available, the swimming pool was the most interesting for me, which made me happy. Wasting no time, I went to the boat and grabbed a swimsuit. During this time Peter was already up. After breakfast we got ready to go to town. At about ten minutes walk from our dock, on the main road, we caught the bus to Corfu. The day was sunny and very hot. The bus was full as the pomegranate what the ride seemed intolerable. Forty-five minutes it took to get to the centre.

Corfu is the capital of the homonymous island. It was built on a promontory and has a unique architecture that is reflected in the elegant buildings, beautiful villas, nice palaces and squares with lots of trees and flowers, which gives it a unique charm, elegance, character and atmosphere.   In the city dominates two fortresses, which characterize him as “Kastropolis”, “City Fortress”.

A typical urban atmosphere greeted us at the exit of the bus. Soon we merged with the river of passers and headed down the street. All around us were the restaurants, taverns and cafes. With great pleasure we are in one of them ordered a chicken salad with an excellent taste. The kindness of these wonderful people has been known

since ancient times, while is the island of Corfu, after Odysseus journey, was a border line between the known and the unknown world of the Adriatic Sea.   There are also shops with clothes, jewelry and souvenir shops and is hard to imagine to come and not to buy.

After lunch, we headed down the road to a new fortress, erected in the late sixteenth century. It is located across from the island of Vido, close to the port. We went through one of the remaining two gates in the impressive Venetian fortress with dungeons, basements and walls. The fortress is now used as an exhibition space and organizing cultural events.

Old and New Fortresses connects a combination of wide and narrow streets full of people. In this part of town it is possible to find and buy everything “from a needle to a locomotive”. Passing by, we came across the Fish Spa shop. It is suitable for tired skin and improves circulation. Gara Rufa fish are known worldwide. They are long 5-10 cm, belonging to the family of carp, and silvery gray are the colors. They have no teeth and have a very strange feature, they feed with surface layer of human skin and thereby emit ditranol enzyme that contributes to the rejuvenation of the skin and relieves symptoms of patients with psoriasis. They live in thermal waters where the water temperature is 28-38 * C. The fish are harmless, and the entire procedure, which is carried in tanks, hygiene is completely safe for humans. Fish-doctor was greatly attracted to Peter’s attention and aroused his curiosity, so he decided to enter the shop and try. The entire treatment takes ten minutes, although it is possible to stay longer.  My husband stayed twenty minutes. At first confused and in the end happy and satisfied with a big smile he left the shop. I wonder, that he stayed only ten minutes longer, maybe fish could also affect and his rejuvenation!

Not long then, we were standing in front of the most impressive building of its kind in Europe, the Old Fortress. As we have learned, its construction began 986 years, during the Byzantine Empire. In addition to protection from the enemy, and was used as a quarantine of infectious diseases. In the fortress we entered a drawbridge that crosses the canal, which separates fortress from the square. Inside the fortress there is the Anglican Church of St. George, in one of the rooms, today is the Music Academy of the Ionian University. Beside it is the city Royal marina. The old fortress is one of the most scenic parts of Corfu town with which we have enjoyed in the fascinating views of the beautiful old town, the harbor, the bay and the island of Vido. Corfu Town has many more interesting monuments that decorate it and talk about its history but it is impossible to see everything in one day. It was seven o’clock in the evening when we arrived at the marina at the pier. Surprises never enough, we forgot to insure the footbridge, which was lay off from the ship and disappeared from the dock. Looking around, we saw it floating in the middle of channel of the marina. The day I finished in style, I jumped into the sea, swim under the pier and led it to the ship. While we were laughing out loud our neighbors came to see what was happening. We were tired, and after dinner we went to bed.

Visiting the Island Vido, which is located only a kilometre away from the port of Corfu, was our next step. On the island is located a mausoleum ossuary Serbian soldiers from the First World War, who were pulling over Albania and Montenegro to Corfu, the “island of hope”, which is known as the “Albanian Golgotha”.  Infected of typhus, many were treated on the nearby island Lazareto but the most affected were transferred on, at that time uninhabited island Vido. Deceased Serbian soldiers are buried in the Blue Tomb in the depths of the Ionian Sea. We were deeply impressed by the sad story of the fate of a large number of Serbian fighters. Walking and talking about all this we boarded the next boat that took us back to a cheerful and joyful reality.

Intrigued by beautiful stories of a small seaside town on the Coast of Ion Sea, next day we arrived in Syvota that was on the way to Sicily. It is on for a full three to four hours far, depending on the wind strength. It is situated in a beautiful little bay, where we anchored. We were very comfortable in this old fishing village and we are in the period of our stay every day came by dinghy to the shore to get a coffee in a cafe or tavern and for a walk along the waterfront that surrounds the harbor and yacht marina. We both enjoy the maximum rest and swim in this little paradise of beautiful secluded beaches of the archipelago.

Most of us attracted Pisina with the smallest white sand, which is located opposite of Syvota. Leaving Syvota we sailed once more in the customs port of Corfu to unsubscribe from Greece and sailed to Italy.

 

Sailing into the Bay of Kotor, in the front of Zelenika, the first Montenegro customs port, by radio, we tried to announce our arrival, but to no avail. Montenegro flag on the right and yellow, in maritime jargon called “Q” flag, were fluttered on the first cross of the mast, therefore we freely agreed to the customs pier.   Wind and waves pounded out the ship to the shore, which was a problem for a longer retention on the dock.   It was four o’clock in the afternoon. Peter immediately grabbed a folder with documents prepared and went to the harbormaster’s office, customs administration and the police. The procedure is protracted and waiting seemed endless. During that time I watched the ship and its safety. My husband is very familiar with Montenegro, so he had a great desire to sail into Boka. When he showed up with a red label and a smile on his face, I knew everything was all right. Releasing the ropes with cleats dock, we sailed to Tivat.

If I had to describe Montenegro with only two words, surely it were the words: Mountains and Sea. Montenegro is a small Mediterranean country with fascinating mountains, beautiful coastline, very old towns and famous history, while the Montenegrins recognized by a caring relationship with a woman and love for his sister and mother.

Porto Montenegro in Tivat, located in the city center. Blinded us to its modern and luxurious look. Palm trees that have seen already from the entrance to the marina, reminded the tropics. Hotels, promenade, shops and services are provided high standard. “J 09” was a mark of our pier along which we easily tied.  After kebab, fried potato and tomato salad, which I prepared for dinner, we took a walk along the waterfront, sat down in a restaurant and had a drink. Tivat is nice place and it is not surprising me, as many of kotor’s nobility had their summerhouses here. One of the most famous is summer residence of the family Buca. On weekends, in those beautiful summer nights on the waterfront, is organizing an exhibition and handicraft market in which we particularly enjoyed.  We met and became friends with a few people who are proudly exhibited their works of art. One of the most impressive, for Peter, was Montenegrin folk fiddle, musical instrument. Happy and full of impressions we returned to the boat and went to sleep.

At the entrance to the Bay of Kotor there is the Austro-Hungarian fortress Punta Ostro, which dates back to the 19th Century. She’s about fifty meters, and an imposing stone building, which was once, defended the monarchy against attacks from land and sea. Boka Kotorska is an ambient of great contrast. He left a strong impact on me and I experienced it in my own way. While in one part the rocky mountains rising up from the sea, in the second part there are botanical gardens. Historical sites of ancient civilizations have been merged into a single fund. Mimosa, camellias, palms, pomegranate, agave and lemon, are only part of a wide range of plants in this area.

While Meermowe slightly sailed inside the part of the Bay of Kotor, by view we followed the winding highway that linked the chain of small towns and cities along the coastline. Whichever part of this magnificent mosaics that I looked at, always seemed to me more beautiful than the last. At that moment, I wanted to have a great camera, that those hundreds of pictures, which I did with my little Sonny camera, to unite in a single and evoke that magical beauty.

On the way to Morinj, where we decided to anchor and spend the night, we were refreshed by a pleasant breeze from Verige, the channel behind which there are two picturesque islands, St. Juraj, covered with lush vegetation and slender cypress trees, which because of its mysterious appearance, was the inspiration to many artists to have their works and Our Lady of the Rock, where there is a votive shrine sailors. He was made by a constant filling of stones and still continues today.  Morinj is located deep in the fjord, at the foot of a high mountain range. In the bay we arrived in the early afternoon. Looking at the place from the ship seemed to be all that we can see here, is on those few minutes walk on the main road. We were not aware of how we were mistaken. Without wasting time, we took the dinghy and went to the shore. We got off the main road and by walking, we came to the old mill. Passing across the bridge, through the alley of reeds, we entered into an enchanted world of beauty catering attractions in the family restaurant Čatović. While we were drinking coffee, around us has flowed the water. We enjoyed the view of the birds, the old stone bridges that are hovering over canals of little rivers as well as the overall atmosphere that reveals the hidden beauty of Morinj. Darkness was already down when we returned to the ship. The night we spent more vigilant than we were sleeping. As the wind blew strongly and the waves rolled us on all sides, we were sliding towards the neighboring board. Immediately we raised anchor and change position. The morning we met sitting and drinking coffee in the cockpit. The weather calmed down and by eleven o’clock we decided to hike to the Upper Morinj. Four kilometers curving ascent led us to the foot of the mountaintop. Along the way we picked and ate figs and berries, drank cold spring water, and enjoy the beautiful view of the bay. Passing through the village, in which still living only two old women, we have come to the old school, the first on the Balkans on the national language, and today museum. Our hike ended at a stone bridge, and the road still continued to Herceg Novi. With a good mood, we returned to the ship. The effort has paid off for one such experience, no matter what my husband constantly complained about the slope and heat. That evening, we sailed to Risanj because of bad weather followed by heavy rain and thunder, and the next morning we went to Kotor.We sailed into the marina in the city center. Main road separated us from the market fruits, vegetables and local products and “Gate of the Sea”, the main entrance to the old town. From the boat, we enjoyed the view of the old fortress of Kotor. To avoid strong sun and high heat, this afternoon we spent on the boat.  We studied ARC scripts for crossing the Atlantic, we have sent several mails and fix some minor things on board. After dinner we took a walk and got acquainted with the city. According to myth, the Colchians, members of the Phoenician tribes, finding himself in the stern Argonauts, Jason, Hercules, Theseus … in pursuit of a symbol of all the maritime resources, the Golden Fleece, founded Kotor. He is as old as the sea trade in the Adriatic. This is one of the few Mediterranean cities known as the city-maze, which makes it very special. Although are available maps of the city, it is easy to get lost in this maze of baroque squares with unusual names, Square of Arms, Market of Salads, Square of Milk …

Being in Kotor for me, means not only feel the spirit of the most beautiful fjord in the Mediterranean, but also the spirit of the Bay of Kotor, what makes him a unique.

The next day we decided to climb to the top of the fortress. Fort St. Ivan, or as popularly called San Đovani, is located above the ramparts of the old town.

It starts with stairs that leading to the top of the fort. Climbing up, we enjoyed a fantastic view of the entire bay. Special lights that make her more impressive illuminate the ramparts of the fort at night. Pictures of Kotor and the Bay of Kotor from the top of the fortress, I cannot describe in words, but first need to experience. In Kotor we stayed there for three days, after which we were on course for the city of Bar, for us the last Montenegrin port.

From Kotor to Bar we sailed about five hours. The weather was quiet, peaceful and very hot. During the trip several times we turn the engine off and floated on the water to enjoy jumping and swimming. Dino and Pipo enjoyed the shower in the shade of the cockpit. Near the port of Bar we found ourselves near the brown shadow that lurked just below the surface of the sea. I thought it was a hidden stone cliff. Pipo started yelling, “Land on the sight, land on the sight”, while Dino quieting him “no drama pumpkin, it is too small to be any land.” That moment when I wanted to warn my husband, we noticed that the brown surface moves. “It’s a sea demon” was Dino’s comment. We were very excited to find out what actually happening. The reply we received when we came closer. It was a huge turtle with brown armor diameter of about 1 meter. “Hey Dino, it would be great to surf on it,” said Pipo, what Dino said, “Cool.” Meermowe quickly progressed and she was left behind us and disappeared into the depths of the sea.  In late afternoon, we sailed into Marina Bar. While I performed routine tasks, Peter dealt with paperwork with the management of the marina. Before going to bed we walked the picturesque waterfront, which was full of people and vendors on the market. There I bought two beautiful large shells, which are local fishermen caught in the large network along with the fish. Whatever they are no longer in the sea, when you put shell to the ear you can still hear the sound of the sea, as a sea story.

Staying in Bar we did not want to miss an opportunity go by bus to visit Sveti Stefan. The island is connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus and is the most luxurious summer resort, both in Montenegro and the Adriatic Sea. The fortress surrounded by walls completely transformed into a “hotel-town” and can only be organized to visit with a high price. The streets, walls, roofs and facades kept their original shape, and the inside of them got the most contemporary hotel comfort. Among the celebrities who have stayed in Sveti Stefan are numerous film stars: Sofia Loren, Kirk Douglas, Sylvester Stallone, writer Alberto Moravia, Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis and Soviet cosmonauts led by Gagarin.

We climbed the stairs over the hill and walked past the King’s beach while the Queen’s beach entry allowed only to hotel guests. From the many beaches that belonged to the hotel, just on one, which was flooded with swimmers, were free to swim. We had no great interest to hold for a long time in Sveti Stefan, so we already at three o’clock waited for the bus for Bar. Who knows how long we would stand at the station, had he not come taxi driver Dino. For the price of bus tickets we decided to go with him. For a little more than half an hour of journey, how long it took us to get to the Marine Bar we met and became friends. Dino loves Bar, is very proud to live here and knows a lot about the city. Knowing about our adventure he wanted to show us the old town, which is six kilometers away from Bar. The road, which took us into the hills, the view goes on the oasis of olive trees, which covered the entire region. We stopped for a moment to enjoy the view of the beautiful Muslim shrine, whose magnificent building rises at the foot of the old town. We reached the main entrance to the walls, from which the hill runs a road full of shops and greatly reminds the Sarajevo township. While we were walking along the old cobbled streets and squares, Dino was waiting for us in a restaurant. The Old Town Bar is a fortress that is for centuries, been the center of Bar, as long as the city has not moved lower, in the field. Today it is abandoned and is in ruins, which bear witness to the once successful shopping center. There, during the Middle Ages, have minted copper coins, and later silver dinar. Hour and thirty minutes it took us a tour of the fort and enjoy how the traces of the past, as well as beautiful views of the suburb, today’s old town. Hour and thirty minutes it took us a tour of the fort and enjoyment in the traces of the past, as well as in beautiful views of the suburb, today’s old town. In the store of old stuff, my husband bought for the souvenir a beautiful copper Turkish coffee set. There we met with a tall, young and very dear merchant Nedzad, whose dreams are traveling. We said goodbye to him and went to look for our friend Dino. Before returning to the marina, he also drove us to the oldest old women of Europe, old olive tree, the symbol of Bar. It is located in the village Mirovica, on the way to Ulcinj. This, legally protected monument of nature is more than 2000 years. The scope of the tree is 10 m and is surrounded by a protective fence. Legend has it that was held around the olive meetings of feuding families and at that point there was reconciliation. The olive symbolizes peace, wisdom, strength and durability, and what she is among the plants, it is a dove among birds. On the way back to the marina, with great gratitude, we said goodbye to our friend, the taxi-driver. Certainly is that we were not at the bus station Sveti Stefan that moment, would never have met Dino and by leaving Bar we could be deprived of one of such knowledge.

The next day we are dedicated to preparing for our first journey, longer than a day. It was dark when we left the bar and set sail heading towards Greece.

Pedja was already sitting on the cleats of the pier when we arrived to pick up him. Standing on the bow, my heart was pounding like crazy. His sudden arrival in Dubrovnik has brought a new wave of happiness, bright ideas and pleasure. Pedja has great preferences for adventures, discovering new places and explore the unknown, which showed early in childhood. Business in London, which had suddenly come up, gave him the idea of ​​the arrival to the ship. He loves the sea and ships, the more so, he plans one day cruise on the own sailing boat. My husband and I eagerly we expected his arrival. At that moment, all our emotions are poured into a strong hug and a handshake.

Heat and large temperature difference between London and Dubrovnik, have forced him to immediately unpacked and settled into the cabin. He did not hide his excitement when he saw us, and ship, and wasted no time soon, along with his father, found himself in a man’s world that only they can understand. It fumes from Cuban cigars that he brought with him, as in the Indian camp. Only that was missing were wigwam and feathers on the head. While I was in the kitchen preparing dinner, I enjoyed the sight, seeing them so dear, smiling and cheerful, with that “Die Hard” charm.

We spent the evening in the Bay of Sunj, on the Island of Lopud, near Dubrovnik. Enjoying the sea folly, I was happy watching our son so relaxed, which is a rare opportunity. Pedja has a lot of work and I was not surprised by the obligations he has brought with him to the ship. Sitting in the cockpit, a long time we talked about everything and went to sleep.

Since we were very short of time, the next day we decided to re-sail to the Island of Sipan, known as an oasis of Dubrovnik aristocrats. We were thrilled to learn that Sipan entered in the Guinness Book as the island with the most olive trees in relation to its size and population.

The island is also known for its ancient family villa Stjepanovic-Skocibuha. Pedja enjoyed this oasis of peace and beauty. We had lunch at a nearby restaurant and the evening we walked the coast.

The next morning, we sailed to the ACI marina Dubrovnik where we had booked a berth for two days to visit all together, the old town before Pedja’s departure.

While sailing Pedja wanted to see our level of readiness in case of serious situations and disasters at sea. In driving, he suddenly jumped into the sea in the middle of nothing and shouted, “Man overboard”. At first we were confused and did not know what’s the matter but we quickly came our self and approached the rescue procedures. I must admit it was very exciting and effective, especially because we noticed a large ship sailing in the direction of Pedja. The final part of the rescue, wrapping it in a blanket, Pedja was skipped due to high heat.

Our son was very proud of us and the results that we had shown. He also introduced us to some other markings on a plotter that can be applied to facilitate the search of the crash at sea.

That afternoon, while Pedja handled his responsibilities, my husband and I, we used for the planning and preparation of the boat for

our further journey. Marina is located in Dubrovnik River and covers a wider area of ​​the river Ombla. At the source of the river, which connects with the sea, beneath the large rocks, vineyards and olives, in the valley of peace settled Rožat. The church on the hill, which can be seen from the marina, attracted my attention, so I got up early in the morning and

prepared to explore while my sweet fighters for men’s rights were in sleep.The road to the Church of the Assumption goes over the bridge on the main road, and then the hill, narrowly passing along an old stone house. Next to the church there is an old cemetery with a beautiful view of the Dubrovnik River and marina. On the way back along the river Ombla , it was interesting to see fisherman who took a rake green algae from the water and placed them into kiddle for fishing. It was eight o’clock when I got back on the boat full of happiness. After breakfast we were ready for a new adventure in Dubrovnik.

On the main road in front of the marina, we caught the bus, which we drove toward Pile, to the city. Immediately after getting

off the bus, caught us a view on the magnificent curtain walls that surround the marble streets and baroque buildings of the old town. All together, the churches, monasteries and museums with fine stonework reminiscent of the tumultuous history and artistic tradition impressed us.

Placa, or promenade popularly called Stradun, the backbone of the city is a mix of cafes and shops with monuments of extraordinary beauty. My husband also enjoyed the refreshing, drinking cold water from one of the fountains that are found on the Stradun. Look through walls with the tallest buildings is perfect, as it seems at the same time unreal. European poet Lord Byron was not mistaken when he declared that Dubrodnik is a Pearl of the Adriatic. We enjoyed all this with a top mood despite the heat that has accompanied us.

When we got to the old port, from which every fifteen minutes touristic boats drive to Lokrum, ignoring the dark clouds hovering over the city, carrying rain and thunder, we decided to visit that nature park. According to the legend, on Lokrum salvation from shipwrecks found Richard I the Lionheart, returning from the crusade in Palestine. Testament by which he will, if the save, build a church on the site of salvation, was partly fulfilled. He saved on Lokrum, but at the request of Dubrovnik they agreed that a church will be built in the town itself, instead of on the island.

We bought tickets for the ship that he was ready to go. The crew was greeted passengers with a smile. The ship was sailing to the island of less than fifteen minutes. It seemed insufficient to absorb the beauty that have is promoted before eyes. It seemed insufficient to absorb the beauty that is promoted before our eyes. At Lokrum we swam, walked and ate lunch in a cozy restaurant. Beautiful peacocks could be seen all over the island.  Not missing any traffic signs prohibiting such as this in the picture. If you smoke a cigarette, it is obvious that you are welcome in the nature park Lokrum.  Suddenly, the rain just fell on the island. It soon created a large column of visitors who waited for boarding for Dubrovnik. On the way back we wanted to drink coffee and eat cake. Pedja loves cream cakes, which, unfortunately, we have not managed to find in any of the restaurants and cafes. In order to make him happy, I resolutely walked to a nearby supermarket and bought all I needed.

That same evening in the front of Pedja I served a tray full of cream cake. He was happy as a child. Clean I was enjoying watching him.

Although we did not want, it’s time tirelessly passed. It was Wednesday, the day of Pedja’s departure. It was really short and sweeter than cream cakes. Every moment spent with our children is our great satisfaction of the happiness in life. It was hard to watch his departure but remained hope and joy of our meeting on the Caribbean Islands. After saying goodbye to Pedja, that afternoon we set sail from Dubrovnik to Cavtat, the last port in Croatia in order to complete customs procedure and headed towards Montenegro.

Conquering still the vastness of the blue Adriatic Sea, we sailed to Vela Luka on the island of Korcula. Passing by beautiful bays in which we were able to anchor, Peter decided to tie the boat to the buoy directly near the waterfront and near the main pier for passenger ships coming from the direction of Split and Dubrovnik. Many years ago, by living island life, I often traveled between Split and Lastovo, and while large ferry was docking on the main dock, I enjoyed the view from the deck on the largest city on the island with a mild climate and clear sea.

The next period brought us a new excitement about meeting our new guests, friends from Italy, who were supposed to board a ship in Vela Luka. For this reason, we came three days early to do shopping and prepare the ship. Soon we were drove the dinghy to the shore.

First we met with the city, seeing where they are located, and then we stopped at a supermarket where we bought everything we need. On the way back we saw the advertisement about musical evening on the waterfront, it was the Festival of Dalmatian songs, which did not surprise us because, Korcula is known for original songs, local wine and sardines. It was five o’clock in the afternoon when we returned to the ship.

Sitting in the stern and watching environment in which we were, I noticed that except us and one other boat, In our surrounding, no one else there wasn’t there, which is, for this time of year, was very strange. A large number of buoys, which has been floated all around us, were eerily empty. I was not feeling most comfortable, so I suggested my husband set sail from this place and anchor in one of the bays we’ve seen at the entrance to Vela Luka.

Believing in the correctness of Peter’s decision, we stayed there overnight. The festival began at nine o’clock. At a hundred meters away from us, we enjoyed on the aft deck, listening mandolins and guitar in the hot summer night. It was nearly eleven o’clock when we went to sleep not knowing that we will be, after midnight, the main characters of crime story as in the novel of Aghata Christie.

The night was quite noisy, which is why I used to wake up. Music has drowned out any sound and it was impossible to hear anything else except the beautiful melodies. The festival was finished in the early hours.   I got up as usual before my husband, intending to write a blog. I noticed that there is no computer that was left, last night, on the table on the charger. Immediately it was clear that we had “guests” on board. I woke Peter, after which we found that, in addition to computers, missing iPod, camera, Peter’s IPhone and Shimano fishing rod with a big machine, we have prepared for catching tuna in the oceans. While we are on the iPod had all the electronic maps, very important for our trip, my husband was heartbroken when he saw there is no fishing rod. Luckily we had my mobile that stayed behind, which we used for further communication.

Theft is quickly reported to the police. The burglars destroyed the card from iPhone and thus inactivate him, but they had not counted on the factor of surprise, our “Inspector Poiroa”. Our son Pedja, that moment, was on a business trip in London. When he heard for the robbery, over the Internet he found the position of the iPod, since the card was still active, and contacted the police.

With the help of folders, which they had received through the messenger, they are successfully, in record time, found and arrested the criminals and return all that we have been robbed in excellent condition.

The thieves have admitted all for what they are charging what falls into the category of aggravated theft because we slept on the ship, where it could come into a physical fight with an unknown outcome. Later we found out that also with our stuff it was found a scooter stolen the same night at one o’clock after midnight from the neighboring ship. A police inspector, Zanetic Alen from Korcula, endlessly thanked our son to help. Everything was going the film speed and this would probably be the shortest crime story in the world with a happy ending.

A police report had to be signed within a few days in the city of Korcula, which is located on the other side of the island of Korcula, where there is the main criminal administration. We didn’t want to stay longer in Vela Luka, so we, with the approval of the police, decided the same day in the early evening sail to the Island of Lastovo.

We were accompanied by strong winds, so we enjoyed the sailing. Darkness already came down, when we arrived into the Jurjev’s Port, which is also part of the National Park Lastovo. It was eight o’clock in the evening and the port was already full of boats, we had no place to anchor and we sailed into the next bay where we stayed overnight. The next morning we got up, had breakfast, enjoyed swimming and walking around the bay. After lunch we drove the dinghy to the small town of Ubli.

My husband and I know Lastovo very well because we spent a wonderful period of our life right here, so this was our first visit Ubli after 35 years. Through only two streets, located in the village and a small square, we walked with great curiosity. We were really excited about seeing the house where we lived, popularly called “Villa Tomich”. In three of the four apartments, how many that building had, were lived three families Tomich, from different parts of the former. Yugoslavia. The island is still beautiful but everything other has changed and nothing was as before. Cake Shop in which our children enjoyed cakes, no longer exists, Hotel “Sirena” is definitely destroyed, until the settlement on the nearby hill very neglected and the only thing that still worth is the magnificent view of the Jurjeva’s Port.

On Lastovo we met with our old and dear friend Dragan called “Smoki”, who was spending his vacation in Lucica place with his wife Emica. Watching each other in wonder as if we are not who we are, handling and excitement, after all these years, made this meeting memorable for life. We exchanged a few words in a hurry and we agreed to visit us the next day on a boat where we will talk in peace in full. It was Saturday, planned departure to Korcula on Sunday we switched to early Monday morning.

We could not wait for their arrival. Dragan has no preference toward marine vessels and our adventure, as well as the ship is provoked in him a great interest. While Dragan and Peter, with coffee and cream cakes, overturned by the past, I enjoyed in Emica’s company. Given that Emica is a same age as I, born on the Island of Lastovo, and that she lived for many years in Australia, we found a many of common points and topics for conversation.  Enjoying their company, the time simply flew. It was five hours afternoon, when we said goodbye to our friends, with the desire to meet again.

Adventure, like this one we have and way of life, which we temporarily live, do not recognize the attachment with people, space and time. Sorrow and regret for something there is no place. Faith in yourself, firmness, patience and positive attitude is our strongest weapon, no matter how it is hard for us. Smile and hope, that will everything what was nice and pleasant, be happen again in other circumstances, is all that should remain behind us.

We sailed into the city of Korcula and tied it to the pier, in front of the police building. I stayed to wait on board while Peter went to sign a crime statement. At three o’clock in the afternoon, at the bus station we planned to welcome our friends from Italy.

Two more hours we had to wait to their arrival, so we decided to take a peek into the past of this sun-bathed town. In the old town we enter through the south entrance, the Town Tower Revelin, built in 1391. Her beauty charmed us. Stone streets, popularly known as “kale”, very similar to the streets of the old Split, decorated the facade of elegant

mansions and every stone were simply spoken about the past times.

The city of Korcula is known for its traditional dance “Moreska”, a knight’s game with swords, which represents a historic battle between good and evil.

The annual dance performance is on the day of Saint Todor, protector. It was almost time of arrival of our friends, we quickly had coffee in a restaurant enjoying a little bit more in the view of the sea and we went to the bus stop. We were happy with their arrival, more than that, we are expected and imminent arrival of our son in Dubrovnik.

It was Tuesday, the bus came right on time. Luca and Roberto, are childhood friends. Although Roberto lives in South Africa and Luca in Dubai, their arrival brought us the famous Italian charm. They were thrilled with Split, where they boarded the ship to Vela Luka, as well as travel by bus from Vela Luka toward Korcula. The appearance of villages and configuration of the terrain of the island reminded to Italy and they felt like at home. Our friends had never stayed on the boat, so did not hide their excitement about the vessel.

The heat was unbearable, even thermometers were given up of measuring the temperature of the air. The only solution for refreshment, upon boarding, we found by swimming and jumping into the sea, after which they Luca and Roberto settled into their cabins. Private commitments have not allowed them stay on board longer than 4 days. Destinations that we planned to visit were therefore directed towards Dubrovnik due to their departure, and because of the arrival of our son. We did not have much time available.

The evening we spent in a pleasant chat, laughing and enjoying the salami of deli specialties. Around nine o’clock the next morning, we left Korcula in the direction of the Islands of Mljet, Sipan and Lopud.

The whole time we sailed using the engine because the weather was quiet, with no wind and the sea was calm, what has created new ideas for enjoyment. While Luca was interested in sails and sailing techniques, Roberto has mastered the technique of anchoring and rope folding. Several times at anchoring in bays, he was let down the anchor and lifted anchor chain. He enjoyed in that and it was cute to watch the way in which it worked.

Also they both took part in the daily work of cleaning the ship. Lightly dragging a floating dingy, they have been scrubbing the boat from the outside of the hull. Better to say Roberto was cleaning while Luca and Peter were watched and teased him. It was wonderful to have them on board.

Roberto has not married yet, has a very good heart and the unforgettable and striking smile on his face and it was not surprised me when Luca said, “Everyone loves Robert”, especially women, as in the series “Everybody Loves Raymond.”

We enjoyed the beauty, tranquility and picturesque

look of the all bays where we spent nights as well as in walks along the coast. I believe that they will Lopud and fishing remain long in the memory. We caught eight fish where they enjoyed lunch licking his fingers. Luca and Roberto will long remember this trip and Meermowe, as well as the cuisine and wine, which they enjoyed on board.

Saturday morning, the day of their departure, we sailed into the port of Gruz in Dubrovnik to dropped them on the pier to catch a bus shuttle to the airport. We said goodbye, once again we looked in the back of dear people and said see you soon. We waved to each other while Meermowe has not vanished behind big boats.

With goodbye to our friends, we said also goodbye to Split. From the stern, over a long and foamy furrow, which made the boat engine, we watched the city to get lost in the haze on the horizon. Meermowe has impeccably carried us on his hips, once again in the direction of Solta, where we decided to spend the next two days in the company of my cousin, and move on through Meermowe’s Great Adventure.

This island does not offer much to modern inhabitants, but can a lot to offer to nature lovers. Solta was once famous for the production of lime, which talks about the difficult life of costal farmers. Today, the island is known for roosters “strong throat”, which not only kukurika in the morning, but also through the day. Instead of playing the guitar and with the romance awake people, their kukurika overrides even the bells of the church and

ferries in the harbor. If the croatian series “Gruntovcani” would be record again, probably roosters from Solta will awake Dudek and Regica every morning and thus get an important role in the film.

Mladen lives and works in Zagreb. Spending holidays in a house on the sea, along with his father, eagerly expecting us. A one-day stays aboard the sailing left a strong impression on him. He was happy and impressed by the ship. He was interested in electronics and the working principle of the instruments on board and sailing techniques. After a dinner at their house, with good Solta’s wine, we played cards, Briškula and Treseta and returned to the ship.

The next day we used to prepare the ship and the way to new destinations. We reviewed the map, determined the course, checked the shallows and anchorages and the supply of water and fuel, in which we got a help from Dino and Pipo, as true sailors. With all of the obligations that we’ve had in 40 * C, found the time for refreshment in cold drinks and swimming.   Pasta with truffles was served for dinner for two, after which we drove the dinghy to the shop.

Carrying shopping, we walked to see my aunt and cousin and say goodbye before leaving. In the early hours of the next morning, we left Necujam. In Rogac we took fuel and water and left Solta.

That afternoon, we sailed to the town of Vis on the island of Vis. The harbour was teeming with boats in the charter.

There was no way to dock ship on the coast so we were tied to the buoy in the Bay of Kut. That entire crowd around the ships, entering and leaving the port, gave a special charm to which Peter was very enjoyed.

Town of Vis is situated in the Bay St. Juraj. It developed from the former settlements Kut and Luka, which are merged into a single unit. Antique Issa, was founded by the tyrant of Syracuse Dionysius the Elder, as the Greek colonization of the Adriatic stronghold. I believe that is few who left Vis saying that will never come back, or that they have had enough of this island.

The first thing you’ll see and feel on the arrival is the crystal clear water and odor. What makes him known, by unspoiled nature because it was inaccessible for tourists for years, is not a lie. Wild lavender, myrtle and rosemary will follow

you to the inland and on the coast of the island.

Immediately after routine cleaning of the ship, with dinghy we moved ashore. Despite the strong sun and heat, we headed towards the English fortress Fort George, which we saw from the boat on a nearby hill.

Fort George III, the largest fortress is located at the western entrance to the port of Vis. It was created by the British Royal Navy in 1813. After nearly two centuries it was used for military purposes, the fort was abandoned and restored. During the summer days here there are organized various concerts and entertainment.

To it’s place it is most easily reached by car, but Peter and I have rather decided to walk and enjoy in fantastic views of the city of Vis. Preparations for the wedding an English couple from London were under way, when we got to the fortress, which gave her a festive look.

On the way back, we went to the supermarket to buy a watermelon, and many scooters parked and exposed to the waterfront, were a response to a question, what is the easiest way to visit and get to know the island. So Peter decided to rent one the next morning.

Having a drink in one of the “hundred” restaurants, known by country bread and sardines on the spit, we returned to the ship. By the end of the day all the places in the harbor were filled. It was really impressive to be part of that crowd. The evening, with good food, wine and romantic music with computers passed us in an instant. We have not even turned and it was already time to rest. It was not difficult to go to sleep because, early in the morning, waiting for us new challenges.

The agency to hire scooter opens at nine o’clock. I do not like ​​motorcycles and the idea about scooter, although it sounded crazy didn’t give me to sleep. I was thinking about my first run with Peter on Tomos scooter, which ended before we even started, as in the cartoon. In our younger days, my husband had an irresistible urge drive me through his village and probably enchant with his abilities and skills driving the engine. In order to make him happy, with fear I sat behind him.

It was rainy weather. Started engine, when it was in third gear, has resulted in a strong flick of where I was thrown into a muddy bar. I looked like a pig in a quagmire while Peter laughed to tears.

Given our youthful experience, this adventure I approached with great caution.

Renting a scooter, my husband had to make a few test drives, in order to gain confidence. Fully equipped, I was tightly hold for Peter and we have successfully start to move toward Komiža. The ride was more than pleasant. I was happy and satisfied especially

because the maximum speed scooter was 35 km per hour. We stopped at the first lookout, on a hill overlooking Komiža. The view from this place is indescribable. Below us stretched a perfect panorama of the city. At this point, we envy the birds, because in this panorama they can enjoy it whenever you want.

Given the great heat, motorcycling has been good to us. We refreshed with drink and fruit, and continued on going closer to the center.

Komiza, a picturesque town on the western side of the island with a centuries-old fishing tradition. In the past exclusively fishing village and more recently a very popular tourist destination. It is situated in a large bay surrounded by high mountains and facing the sea and the sun. It is known for first-class fish specialties, olive oil and fine wines.

When we arrived at the waterfront, cafes, pizzerias and pastry, were filled with people. Everyone has found his place, somewhere in the shade while enjoying broad awnings and umbrellas or on a wooden bench on the waterfront in the shadow of wide crown long-lived trees, hiding from the sun and heat.

We first walked these narrow streets and then we chose a table for two for coffee and eat ice cream.

That entire scene we were delighted so we decided the next day by boat to sail to Komiza. We would love to rest longer in town, but we had to move on.

The winding road led us to the highest excess top Hum. Immediately below Hum is “Tito’s cave”, in the past known as the “Ghost Cave”, until 1944 when it was the headquarters of the partisan army and the seat of Tito’s government. At the latest, the hilly section of the road, scooter dropped the soul and had no more power to both of us bring to the finish line, and I the last five hundred meters, at a temperature of 39 * C had to hike.

On the way to Vis, we passed through the village of Žena Glava (Womens Head), unusual name whose origin there are two theories. While some think that the name of the place associated with arid zones, Žedna Glava (Thirsty Head), others argue that in the distant past of the place, the head was a woman. After all we have seen and experienced, we returned to the ship. We were happy we had a scooter available. There is no doubt that I would do it again.

The rest of the days we spent in swimming and enjoying. While my husband found peace in reading exciting books, I edited the blog. With coconut roll, after dinner, we watched a movie and we have gone to sleep. Leaving Vis, in the morning,

we sailed to Komiža intending to visit Blue Cave on the nearby island of Bisevo. The weather was quite windy. Full Sail we enjoyed sailing and waves.

The island of Bisevo is a special attraction in Komiža archipelago with a unique phenomenon in the Adriatic Sea, the famous Blue Cave, a rare example of natural beauty. It is very small

and low entrance from the sea and in the time of south wind, the entrance is dangerous, sometimes even impossible. Between 11:00 and 12:00 o’clock the sun’s rays enter the cave through the entrance area, which is under the sea, break and create a cave strange blue light, after which it was named. The influence of bad weather, unfortunately we did not have a chance to keep it for a long time near the cave, so we left Biševo and sailed into the Bay of Komiza with the intention to spend the night and the next day we go any further. The bay seemed empty, it was not crowded and adherence to the buoy was a “song”. Due to strong currents and wind I could not keep the buoy in the hands, which I accepted with a boat hook, so because of the current the boat dragged me so hard that I had to throw a stick in the sea or to jump from the boat. Within a minute hook sank and disappeared. In my hand was stayed only the rubber insert. Sadly I watched it but luckily we had a spare one, which we finally successfully tied.

Komiza, as a favourite destination of many boaters, is often not able to accommodate all the ships that wanted to make it in place, as confirmed in the afternoon when the boats started to come one after the other, catamarans, sailboats, yachts…, it seemed like a real invasion. My husband has found himself in all that he

enjoyed as a child. Excitedly commented on everything that is happening around him, while I was preparing dinner. The highlight of his passions was when both sailing and catamaran sailed into the bay in the race for the last free buoy near us.

At Peter’s call I went out to the stern and laughed to the scene. Where each of them held on to their rope threaded through the loop. They argued about who came first, one of them was Italian and the other was a German. Can you imagine what it looked like the fight, because no one spoke English? The case was quickly resolved with the help of the Komiza port crew.

Vis is one of the most beautiful Croatian islands. For him, many will say that it is a place where time has stopped. This is true when it comes to natural beauty and food. Despite the changes in lifestyle, old, irresistible Mediterranean charm and life without stress and bustle, Vis is above average adventure of beauty and enjoyment.