Croatia (the good)

Croatia wasn't all bad. In fact, change the boatmates ever so slightly (friends, or even just more sophisticated strangers), and it would be great. So after loving it the first time, hating it the second time, hopefully I'll get to return some day with the right company and have the perfect sailing holiday. (maybe even as the skipper, if I get around to taking the necessary courses)



Anyhow, some of you will be wondering were we spent the week. Here's a map of the area.



And a photo of the sailboat. (this one is the oldies boat, but it was identical to our own)





Upon arrival, we decided to set sail for a little island not far outside Split, to get our sea legs and get away from the city. The island was called Veli Drevenik, with a population of maybe 200, and 1 restaurant!!!



The next day we set sail for the island of Vis, which is the island furthest away from the mainland (or alternatively, closest to Italy). The island was closed to tourists until 1989, so it has a quiet, relaxed feel about it. This was actually only one of the two days we were actually able to sail, since there wasn't much wind all week.





On Monday, we motored down to the island of Lastovo, which was also a military area until 1989. That evening, we had dinner at the private home of a family who operate the lighthouse, so that was nice.

The next day we motored down to the island of Mljet, which is a national park. I had the chance to rent a mountain bike, and go for a ride along the sea. It was great, escaping from my fellow sailors and enjoying both a good workout and some great scenery.



By Wednesday, we were making our way to Korcula, the only place on the itinerary I'd visited before. Not travelling by ferry this time, I could really enjoy the fortified town, in theory the birthplace of Marco Polo.






On Thursday, we tried to sail, but without much wind we ended up motoring to the island of Hvar, which is the most popular island in the Adriatic. Because of that, we ended up anchoring a bit far from the nice town that is so popular, and I didn't get a chance to see it. (so will have to return someday)

Friday was the other day of sailing. It was actually so windy that we didn't put up many of the sails, but it was still nice to get a change from motoring our way around. We spent Friday evening on the island of Brac.

To top it all off, we had an early start Saturday morning, to make it back in time for the flight. As only the South African woman, myself and the skipper were awake, we were treated to a show by some dolphins, jumping right next to the boat. (unfortunately I didn't have my camera to hand...)


So there it is... the good of Croatia... shame I didn't get enough sleep or have anybody to enjoy myself with. But anyhow, still a place I highly recommend to visit, and I'll return any time!!!