tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-950160480775567512024-03-05T09:36:50.106-08:00Lone Star TimesAdventures On Board an Amel 54Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.comBlogger81125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-85923707715885686492012-03-08T05:46:00.000-08:002013-03-07T11:06:52.588-08:00Spring Time in the Caribbean<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> finally made it back to Lone Star at the end of
February.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was berthed in Martinique
at the Amel facility for some repairs after the ARC.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had a short sailing season due to Jan’s
mother’s health and ultimate passing away in January.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were looking forward to getting away and
spending time on the boat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had
originally planned not to have any guests on board but in the end changed our
minds and had three great sets of friends on board.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cdCuAuOtjPQ/UTiZ4Lx1X4I/AAAAAAAAFJ0/xCJEEBonDtE/s1600/IMG_0122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cdCuAuOtjPQ/UTiZ4Lx1X4I/AAAAAAAAFJ0/xCJEEBonDtE/s320/IMG_0122.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K81ItzuDsnI/UTibjjJDD-I/AAAAAAAAFKE/-ocvC6aS49k/s1600/IMG_0139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K81ItzuDsnI/UTibjjJDD-I/AAAAAAAAFKE/-ocvC6aS49k/s320/IMG_0139.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">We arrived in Martinique close to midnight
after a full day of flying including two plane changes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hey we thought having the boat in the
Caribbean would be easier to get to than in Europe!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A little secret about most of the French
islands – they aren’t easy to get to unless you live in France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We found Lone Star in great condition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All polished and cleaned and most repair work
done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spent 10 days in Martinique
waiting for the rest of the work to finish up, touring the island and visiting with the
folks from fellow ARC boats Perseverance and Maxi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Then on March 12<sup>th</sup> we were off to
Rodney Bay, St Lucia to wait for our first guests to arrive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Prior </span>
to their arrival we ran into Tony Wessendorff and his wife Gail Corrigan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tony and Gail are members and past Commodore
and First Lady of our former yacht club Lakewood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tony and Gail have based their sailboat
Ceteca in St. Lucia for the past 11 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Recently retired, they were making plans to set sail in July for an extended
cruising adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had a great time
enjoying drinks on each other’s boats and enjoying dinner out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They provided us with a wealth of information
on cruising in the Caribbean which we knew would come in handy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Lynda
and Mike Staley joined us March 15<sup>th</sup> for a week of fun in the
sun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Long time friends, Mike and Lynda
were with us on our previous boat Seabbatical in Florida and the Caribbean and
Mike helped sail the boat with Craig from Gibraltar to the Canaries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spent the week enjoying activities both
on land and sea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ScfIoYHgro/UTidqNlaGmI/AAAAAAAAFKU/qslf1JEeI7M/s1600/IMG_0225.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ScfIoYHgro/UTidqNlaGmI/AAAAAAAAFKU/qslf1JEeI7M/s320/IMG_0225.JPG" width="240" /></a>Before setting sail we
decided to risk life and limb with zip lining and had a blast.<b> </b>Having survived flying through
the air suspended from cables we decided to conquer the seas and set sail for
the Pitons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spent two nights moored
in one of the most idyllic spots in the Caribbean (if not the world).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mike fished, Jan and Craig snorkeled and we
all toured the botanical gardens, “drive-thru” volcano and enjoyed cocktails at
Ladera.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A resort nestled between the Pitons. </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3ELiKSkSjmk/UTigDyrxh1I/AAAAAAAAFKw/bbnRDQ8hAh4/s1600/IMG_0370.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3ELiKSkSjmk/UTigDyrxh1I/AAAAAAAAFKw/bbnRDQ8hAh4/s320/IMG_0370.JPG" width="320" /></a>After two nights we
sailed into beautiful Marigot Bay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From
there we went horseback riding on what had to be the most pathetic looking
horses</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bMMlVurT_B0/UTif414FTLI/AAAAAAAAFKo/zY2OVnKbh8I/s1600/IMG_0344.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bMMlVurT_B0/UTif414FTLI/AAAAAAAAFKo/zY2OVnKbh8I/s320/IMG_0344.JPG" width="320" /></a> we had ever seen!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Word of warning
– in St Lucia do not use Trims Stables.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our final evening we had dinner at the Rainforest Hideaway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A great send off for great friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">After Mike and Lynda left we set sail for two
weeks of cruising the Grenadines. </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVA0g_ncPzWKIFv6z6-FWGUx3cJxkp50OZR5HQ3MwKtY1EYlDLH7n1tVdu77TPMqenNaU_ofvgzojlN_8bqwrNyXsN5TzI2U6l93uias3nlSjn2IPxZ1QzdmbAjzBEdj7wTN75rLhyphenhyphenTCU9/s1600/IMG_0781.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVA0g_ncPzWKIFv6z6-FWGUx3cJxkp50OZR5HQ3MwKtY1EYlDLH7n1tVdu77TPMqenNaU_ofvgzojlN_8bqwrNyXsN5TzI2U6l93uias3nlSjn2IPxZ1QzdmbAjzBEdj7wTN75rLhyphenhyphenTCU9/s320/IMG_0781.JPG" width="320" /></a></span>We visitied Bequia and had the famous lobster pizza at Mac’s, </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>did some awesome snorkeling in
the Tobago Cays where we met Mr. Quality who took care of us every time we were
anchored in the Cays, </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--fiZy6vDVKo/UTjZatNMNDI/AAAAAAAAFLQ/NzgcMcNN9Jk/s1600/IMG_0620.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--fiZy6vDVKo/UTjZatNMNDI/AAAAAAAAFLQ/NzgcMcNN9Jk/s320/IMG_0620.JPG" width="320" /></a> </b>spent
calm nights anchored off Canouan and a rolly night off Mustique where Basil’s
Beach Bar and the snorkeling made the roll worth it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The highlight o</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">f explorations was the two
nights we spent in Chatham Bay on Union Island.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A beautiful calm bay filled with sea turtles, Chatham is home to 5 BBQ
Shacks where you can enjoy a fresh lobster or fish dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We picked Sun, Beach and Eat owned by Seckie
and Vanessa. Seckie is the
man behind the grill and Vanessa is the lovely hostess and the master mind of
the place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6tsGrhX7O_M/UTjbV00AjQI/AAAAAAAAFLg/FccIv0Wo16w/s1600/IMG_0717.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6tsGrhX7O_M/UTjbV00AjQI/AAAAAAAAFLg/FccIv0Wo16w/s320/IMG_0717.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span>The food was phenomenal and
we had a great evening visiting with Seckie and Vanessa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Turns out they have been featured on Anthony
Bordain’s No Reservations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ll
definitely return.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EvEMEOo6v-c/UTjaRz7NV8I/AAAAAAAAFLY/FjK7Ugoi0Yo/s1600/IMG_0703.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EvEMEOo6v-c/UTjaRz7NV8I/AAAAAAAAFLY/FjK7Ugoi0Yo/s320/IMG_0703.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We then headed back
to Marigot Bay, St. Lucia and were joined by </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QfTCIAVAVs0/UTjcMpouo2I/AAAAAAAAFLo/SyP_u3LOuuc/s1600/IMG_0816.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QfTCIAVAVs0/UTjcMpouo2I/AAAAAAAAFLo/SyP_u3LOuuc/s320/IMG_0816.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span>Nita and Stacey Horne from
Kingwood who also sailed with us in Greece in 2011.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>
</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">After a return visit to Rainforest Hideaway and a night between the Pitons </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VV8l6dCbYXM/UTjdBmYjrTI/AAAAAAAAFLw/L29XQAE1Alw/s1600/IMG_0833.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VV8l6dCbYXM/UTjdBmYjrTI/AAAAAAAAFLw/L29XQAE1Alw/s320/IMG_0833.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></b></span></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>we headed back to the Grenadines
for some great sailing and fishing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>O</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">f
course we had to first stop in historic Bequia Harbor where we enjoyed lobster
and Jack’s Beach Bar.</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then we were off
to Tobago Cays for some awesome snorkeling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Along the way we dragged the fishing lines and the Fishing Gods were
smiling down on us that day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A double
strike at the same time!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two fat tunas
were waiting for us at end of the lines – yum! yum! </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Not satisfied with just two fish, the lines went back in the
water and strike again!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This time one
line was spinning and it was something big.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Before we could stop it the line was stripped but then caught on the
other line that was still out in the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The monster on the end had plenty of fight and the guys were having
difficulty realing her in when suddenly something or somethings jumped out of
the water and then the fight was gone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Upon realing in the catch we found the top third of a large tuna.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhklJaMEsnuYmRbQk9ySEwGKWPEZljn7Yt-ainbLpcXsuMIK4LIeklINJ1WDAGig1yrwqtaO3IxtuEqUYGUarobp4knUFP8XIsDfArYAr7eEqNHjp19rlfk7ydH4HbD4LvHmA9DoJCLqz7A/s1600/IMG_0896.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhklJaMEsnuYmRbQk9ySEwGKWPEZljn7Yt-ainbLpcXsuMIK4LIeklINJ1WDAGig1yrwqtaO3IxtuEqUYGUarobp4knUFP8XIsDfArYAr7eEqNHjp19rlfk7ydH4HbD4LvHmA9DoJCLqz7A/s320/IMG_0896.JPG" width="240" /></a></b>Something had decided they needed the rest of the tuna more than we
did!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After two great days in Tobago Cays
we sailed to Palm Island for a last lunch together then on over to Union Island
where we bid them fairwell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nh2YlmuFzdQ/UTjd-nLaVNI/AAAAAAAAFL4/P01mPUvGMcM/s1600/IMG_0888.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nh2YlmuFzdQ/UTjd-nLaVNI/AAAAAAAAFL4/P01mPUvGMcM/s320/IMG_0888.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">(0928) </b>Nita and Stacey boarded a puddle
jumper headed north to St. Lucia and we were on our way south to Grenada.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3mOtlkWf3u0/UTjhsTqFngI/AAAAAAAAFMg/5NPj54qDVYU/s1600/DSC08479.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3mOtlkWf3u0/UTjhsTqFngI/AAAAAAAAFMg/5NPj54qDVYU/s1600/DSC08479.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">After clearing out of Union Island on April
24<sup>th</sup> we sailed to Carriacou and cleared in to Grenada.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After spending the night on the hook in
Tyrell Bay we sailed in to Port Louis Marina, St George’s, Grenada.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Port Louis is a large, modern marina with all
the facilities a yachtie could want – restaurant, bar, wifi, swimming pool, a
nearby Island Waterworld Marine chandlery, grocery store and beautiful views of
the charming harbor of St. Georges.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On May 1<sup>st</sup> Carol and Dave Weigel
joined us for a week of cruising the Grenadines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Great friends we have enjoyed visiting their
beautiful home on Casewell Beach, NC and having them on board in the Balleric
Islands in 2009.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, the
Weather Gods had other plans and we were never able to leave Grenada.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So we went to Plan B – explore the southern
bays of Grenada and do some land touring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If you have to be “stuck” somewhere Grenada is a pretty cool place to be
stuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spent a couple of nights in St
George then after </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tt2GYVUSLTk/UTjgtcLR1II/AAAAAAAAFMY/Lon8uuCpWh0/s1600/IMG_1001.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tt2GYVUSLTk/UTjgtcLR1II/AAAAAAAAFMY/Lon8uuCpWh0/s320/IMG_1001.JPG" width="320" /></a>some
snorkeling at Moliniere, the location of Grenada’s underwater statue park we
sailed to the south side of Grenada and spent the night on the hook off Hog
Island.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A extremely calm anchorage we
grilled steaks under the stars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We then
spent 3 nights at Clarks Court in Woburn Bay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>During that time we booked a tour with CB’s Historical tours which was
awesome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>CB gave us a very interesting,
historical tour of Grenada including the time of the revoluti</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3mOtlkWf3u0/UTjhsTqFngI/AAAAAAAAFMg/5NPj54qDVYU/s1600/DSC08479.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3mOtlkWf3u0/UTjhsTqFngI/AAAAAAAAFMg/5NPj54qDVYU/s320/DSC08479.JPG" width="320" /></a>on and the
invasion of the American Troops. </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">As it turns<b> </b>out Dave has a good friend who was part of the invasion whi</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">ch made the
tour all the more interesting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also
visited waterfalls </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qQ1zln8zOPo/UTjiTZTh9oI/AAAAAAAAFMo/lbc_IZqNzYY/s1600/IMG_1066.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qQ1zln8zOPo/UTjiTZTh9oI/AAAAAAAAFMo/lbc_IZqNzYY/s320/IMG_1066.JPG" width="320" /></a> </b></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">and a
nutmeg factory (Grenada produced most of the world’s nutmeg).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another night we enjoyed a cruisers pot luck
and live entertainment.<b> </b>From
Clarks Court we sailed to Prickley Bay for our last two nights together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We booked another tour with CB this time
visiting the rain forest, Rivers Rum factory, and a chocolate plantation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a great week doing things we hadn’t
planned on doing we said goodbye and watched Dave and Carol’s plane from the
boat head for the States.</span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zDdexbYnJx4/UTjjoXrHPwI/AAAAAAAAFM4/Tz6zqQcJdsU/s1600/IMG_1129.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zDdexbYnJx4/UTjjoXrHPwI/AAAAAAAAFM4/Tz6zqQcJdsU/s320/IMG_1129.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-51067901002507852322012-02-28T15:52:00.000-08:002012-03-01T15:53:15.400-08:00Back to the Boat<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
After a several month delay we made it back to Lone Star on
February 28<sup>th</sup>. Lone Star has
been berthed in Le Marin, Martinique at Amel’s pontoon since Craig and Ron Horton
sailed her here after finishing the ARC.
It feels great to be back on board in the Caribbean and we are looking
forward to many new adventures in our new cruising grounds.</div>Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-37320061073347737982012-01-20T14:33:00.000-08:002012-03-01T16:05:57.579-08:00A Recap of our Trip Across the Atlantic<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
As we crossed the Atlantic all of the crew members posted
log entries on the ARC website and sent numerous emails to family and friends
supporting us from shore. All of these have
been repeated below for those of you who have real lives and did not follow our
every move as we made the crossing but may be curious about it. It was a trip of a lifetime for three of the
four crew members. We had a great time
and enjoyed the challenges and camaraderie a long sea voyage brings. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">As for the fourth . . . “I have stories to tell”</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">16 Nov – Replacing
the Running light</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Spent the day trying to replace the forward LED running
light which failed on the trip from Gibraltar.
Managed to break the messenger wire while running the new power line and
spent the rest of the afternoon drilling pilot holes and fishinging a new
messenger line. As the sun set I was
right back where I started this morning.
Not a very good day but tomorrow will be better.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Captain Morgan really tastes good.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Craig<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">18 Nov – Final Shipmate Arrives</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finished installing the new running light, so the last
critical boat job is done. Our meat
order arrived in the afternoon and looks great.
Today our produce, cheese and drinks will be delivered.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Drew arrived today so the entire crew is on board. For the crossing it will be me,
Ron Horton from Cincinnati, Ohio and crewed for me when we took our previous
boat, Seabbatical, from Chesapeake Bay to the BVI's with the Caribbean
1500. He is one of the "Old Salts"
with the Caribbean 1500 and has even crossed the Atlantic. The next mate is Drew Verret, from Kingwood,
Texas. He is an old friend who has raced
with us, helped bring Seabbatical back to Houston from Ft. Lauderdale in 2007
and he and his wife Sherry even visited us on Lone Star when we were in Italy
in 2009. The final shipmate is Ed
"Tex" Robeau, from Port Townsend, Washington, via Maine, Tennessee,
and Texas. Most importantly, he was born
in Texas! He has extensive sailing
experience in Maine and Washington.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Looking forward to a low key day taking care of any last
minute items. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Craig</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>19 – Nov – Checking
Out and Skipper’s Briefing</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p9Ze6eQMmFQ/T0_77k-Tg9I/AAAAAAAAFHg/y8LUL54zGrY/s1600/IMG_0234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p9Ze6eQMmFQ/T0_77k-Tg9I/AAAAAAAAFHg/y8LUL54zGrY/s320/IMG_0234.JPG" width="320" /></a>Skipper and crew reported first to ARC headquarters to check
out officially, and then to the Port
Immigration and Customs to have passports stamped and process out. The local authority in all cases has been
very friendly and courteous, and helpful as best they can considering some
language difficulties. We then walked to town center to complete
provisioning for the passage. Afterward,
the Skipper and First Mate, Ron Horton attended the final Skipper's Briefing
for final instructions and weather information.
The rest of the day was spent with final procedures, such as placing our
passports and wallets in waterproof ziploc bags, and then into the "ditch"
bag [which will be grabbed and tossed into the liferaft as we abandon ship in
the event of uncontrollable fire or sinking].
Skipper and crew are ready, physically and psychologically, for the
departure tomorrow. The evening ended with a final Sunset Rendezvous at the
marina dinghy park. Final goodbyes and
well wishes were made with the many new [and some old] friends made during the run-up, with plans
forl reunification in St. Lucia. Let
the wind blow, but not too much.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ed<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">20 Nov – Day 1 –
Today was the Day</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBcTMDuzkno/T0_9Z1s7iCI/AAAAAAAAFHo/3Lw-ODqkA8I/s1600/IMG_0284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBcTMDuzkno/T0_9Z1s7iCI/AAAAAAAAFHo/3Lw-ODqkA8I/s320/IMG_0284.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tU6eHDlGF8Y/T0_9kblDkUI/AAAAAAAAFHw/52aPOEljvL0/s1600/IMG_0285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tU6eHDlGF8Y/T0_9kblDkUI/AAAAAAAAFHw/52aPOEljvL0/s320/IMG_0285.JPG" width="320" /></a>Today was the day! We
started our Atlantic adventure at 10:30am when we left the dock in Las Palmas.
There was some crazy German music blaring from the loud speakers and the docks
and jetties were packed with waving and cheering spectators. All the boats were all dressed out in their
flags and banners and it made for a spectacular sight. Next came the start. Imagine 250 boats all jockeying for the best
position to cross the line 1st. There were some exciting moments/near
misses. We crossed the starting line at
1pm as our captain timed the start perfectly.
We are now off the southern end of Grand Canary enjoying black bean
stew, 25 - 29 knot winds, flying along at 9 plus knots! We could not have asked for a better start to
the crossing. As the sun sets in the
west we are settling into our watch schedule .We are looking forward to
greeting the sun raise well on our way to St. Lucia. Stay tuned, more to come.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Drew<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">21 Nov – Day 2 –
Where did the wind go?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Went off watch last night when we were doing 8 to 9 knots
with 20 to 23 knots of wind. This
morning the wind had dropped to 8 knots and we were doing 3 knots. Spent about an hour getting the poles rigged
for the double head sail downwind configuration and hope we don't need to take
them down until we get to St. Lucia.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After getting the double head sails rigged and flying the
wind continued to drop and our ETA got as late as February 19th. Now the wind has come back up to 15 knots and
we are going about 7 knots with an ETA of December 9th. Expect to arrive earlier than that because of
all the extra fuel we brought abort for the crossing.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Craig<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">22 Nov – Day 3 –
Fishing</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WJbfvMhXpzw/T0__mDj-q_I/AAAAAAAAFH4/KqwXtCqDLgc/s1600/IMG_5784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WJbfvMhXpzw/T0__mDj-q_I/AAAAAAAAFH4/KqwXtCqDLgc/s320/IMG_5784.JPG" width="320" /></a>After losing two
lures and all the line off two rods this
morning from a couple of large strikes we pulled out more line and the hand
line with 100 pound test on it and went back to give it another go. Then, while we re rigged another fish took
our teaser. This is an octagonally
shaped tube with mirrored sides that moves like a fish in distress. I suspect the fish that took it is now in
distress. Alas, not to be too
discouraged the hand line and a new lure on one of the rods went into the water
and we slowly forgot about them. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gK9PCEa1LE/T0__1H3EZtI/AAAAAAAAFIA/GoK1D975LyM/s1600/IMG_5785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gK9PCEa1LE/T0__1H3EZtI/AAAAAAAAFIA/GoK1D975LyM/s320/IMG_5785.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We thawed some minced beef for a spaghetti dinner and
started to assume that fishing was going to be a bust for the day. However, when Drew went back to check the
lines he had a nice 3 tor 4 pound Mahi Mahi on the hand line. Twenty minutes later it was filleted and in
the freezer to chill down. We still had
the spaghetti for dinner, but are expecting to catch another Mahi tomorrow and
will have a nice fish dinner.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Craig<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">23 Nov – Day 4 – Good
Downwind Sailing</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5kvQ_oTpUw/T1AAxRSsScI/AAAAAAAAFII/Gx19Asisfac/s1600/IMG_5796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5kvQ_oTpUw/T1AAxRSsScI/AAAAAAAAFII/Gx19Asisfac/s320/IMG_5796.JPG" width="240" /></a>This is for Jan the skippers wife watching and coaching from
Texas. The day started off overcast and
cloudy but with steady winds of 18 to 22 knots. This is giving us good boat
speed. Our SOG's are between 9 and 10 knots this morning. The skies have
cleared and we are still doing well. We have a double head sail rig set up with
poles port and starboard. Since we are an Amel 54 we have to call this
rig an Amel head-sail with a ballooner. It is really a great set up for our
downwind sail.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is my 17th rally, my 2nd trans-atlantic, and has been
absolutely great. I am glad I came in early to participate in all of the
activities. I missed not doing the Caribbean 1500 this year and seeing all my
old cruising friends but this trip has be great. I have met old friends and
made new friends. Sailing is the common bound of all that ply the waters, no
matter where you are from in this vast world we live in.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ron<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">26 Nov – Day 7 Sail
Repairs and Sail Changes</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After spending the day after Thanksgiving lamenting the
Aggies last second loss to Texas in what may be the last game in a 100 plus
year American football rivalry we gorged ourselves on left over turkey
sandwiches. After a short break to consider why we ate so much food Ron and
Drew started the task of repairing the Ballooner sail we use with our double
pole downwind system. We managed to tear
an eight meter strip on the luff of the sail when we were raising the device
used to unhook the sail from the jib
furler (the pooch) when we lower the sail.
Now I know what NOT to do the next time we drop the sail.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HrL8AwE0dXY/T1ADeNw_fJI/AAAAAAAAFIg/aS2zEKFz2wU/s1600/IMG_0385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HrL8AwE0dXY/T1ADeNw_fJI/AAAAAAAAFIg/aS2zEKFz2wU/s320/IMG_0385.JPG" width="179" /></a>The good news with this story is the wind direction change
that occurred. The wind direction
changed from the East to the ESE and that
required a different sail combination.
As a result we ran our Mizzen Ballooner (spinnaker) and it really helped
us on the 24th and 25th. Last night the wind diminished to single
digits and the direction was from the south east. This resulted on our dropping the Mizzen
Ballooner and going with the Jib, Main and Mizzen sails. This was our third sail change and we began
to compare ourselves to Luke (aboard Texas T) who participated in 467 sail
changes during one of the Volvo races.
Only 463 to go and we will be in the same category.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fair winds to all,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Craig</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PS Right now we are using the Iron Spinnaker. It is pushing us along at 8.5 knots in 4
knots of wind. If you are reading this
log you will be able to see where we are heading. Hope it shows there is
actually some wind where we are. If our
guess is right we should be in 15 to 20 knots of wind tomorrow.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Craig<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">26 Nov - Day 7 –
Fishing and Sail Repairs</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During the last twenty four hours we had two significant
activities, fishing and sail repairs.
Each one had a certain amount of success. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the fishing front we caught a Mahi Mahi that was a little
over a meter in length and weighed a lot.
Got it on to the swim platform on the transom and the darned fish
managed to spit out the hook and flopped back into the water. It looked like
Drew and the fish were in a wrestling match and, for a moment, I thought Drew
might go into the water with the fish.
Drew and Ron looked like a couple of lost puppy dogs when realization
set in that we lost a magnificent fish and would have to settle for grilled
steaks instead of fish for dinner.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wA11Ov9Zn44/T1ACfGAjp-I/AAAAAAAAFIQ/qRxPqx43fc0/s1600/IMG_0414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wA11Ov9Zn44/T1ACfGAjp-I/AAAAAAAAFIQ/qRxPqx43fc0/s320/IMG_0414.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jmclzBBcfNE/T1ACu7mrXZI/AAAAAAAAFIY/P3LZNorva1c/s1600/IMG_5811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jmclzBBcfNE/T1ACu7mrXZI/AAAAAAAAFIY/P3LZNorva1c/s320/IMG_5811.JPG" width="320" /></a>The process of repairing our Ballooner sail is almost
complete. Drew and Ron have spent more
than 15 hours hand sewing the luff strip back on. Ed even put in a couple of hours with the
needle. It looks to me like the
combination of hand sewing and sail repair tape will hold and we hope to fly it
again tomorrow (26 Nov). We will probably
furl it and the jib one revolution to put less strain on the repaired Ballooner
if the wind starts to increase.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">28 Nov – Day 9 – Just
Another Day in Paradise</b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just another day in paradise. Beautiful clear skies, gently
rolling seas and great shipmates. What
more could you ask for? Well have no fear because here comes Captain Ron; woops
I meant Captain Craig. I, a lowly deck
hand, had no idea what wonderful opportunities awaited on this most anticipated
of voyages. Let’s see, bed making 101.
I’m doing pretty well with that one. Or how about the fine art of sail
mending. Sail mending is what happens
when the pooch decides to get intimate with the head sail. Any more about the
pooch and the censors would have a problem.
The sail mending however was successful and we are proudly flying our double
headsail. Then there’s cooking. I have a long way to go on that one but I’m
trying. Finally no relaxing Atlantic
crossing would be complete without the time honored traditions of swabbing of
the decks and cleaning of the heads. All kidding aside even though Captain Bligh; woops there I go
again, I meant Captain Craig; is a tough task master, he is very fair, a great
teacher and runs a very tight ship. As
we approach our half way point this is really just another day in paradise.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Drew<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">29 Nov – Day 10 – Mid
Passage Evaluation of the Crew</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since the beginning of marine exploration every Captain has
learned how important it is to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of his
crew so he can best utilize them for the good of the ship. Even today, with all the modern conveniences
on board a cruising sailboat, it’s important to continue this practice. Therefore, with this in mind I present my mid
passage evaluation of the crew of Lone Star.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Drew Verret, has sailed with me many times before so I knew
what I was getting. What I didn’t know,
however, was that he has been bragging to his wife about his new skills. Unfortunately for Drew, the Captain knows all
and I learned this when I caught him chuckling about an email he received from
Sherry. After threatening him with a
swim he shared part of an email she sent which stated “Very confusing!
Stitching and sewing and cooking! This
is too much to comprehend! Craig can
work miracles it seems!” Upon further
inquiry I learned he does not do a lot of these types of tasks at home, unlike
your humble Captain. (Alas, I hope my lovely Admiral, Jan, does not read this.)
I am conflicted to offer to all that he has also cleaned heads for fear I will
ruin thirty eight years of domestic tranquility and Drew will find himself much
busier back at home.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ron Horton, what can one say in a public forum about this
dude? We only sailed once together, the
Caribbean 1500 in 2006 when he served as crew.
I was impressed then and we have kept in contact ever since. Captain RON!
He is the mate on this voyage and has logged more offshore miles than
the rest of us combined. In spite of the
fact that he is a Yankee or are you a Midwesterner if you’re from Ohio? He has stepped aboard this southern boat and
helped to bring order to the chaos. Now
if he could only teach as all to cook as well as he does. We all look forward to every fourth night
when Ron amazes us with his culinary skills.
Then it’s back to canned tuna fish sandwiches for the other nights. Maybe not that bad, but definitely not up to
his caliber of cooking. And yes he also
cleans the heads. I think Gayle already
knows that so his forty years of marriage are safe.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ed “Tex” Robeau is the final member of the crew and a French
name with Tex as a nickname says it all.
Ed likes to give me advice and I embrace the ideas I like and ignore the
rest. Ed has logged years of sailing the
waters of Maine and more recently Washington State. This is Ed’s first passage and he is learning
what long distance cruising is all about.
I’m not too sure how much he likes it but I am glad that he is learning
a little more about what it takes to be a good crew mate and hopefully the
learning curve continues to accelerate.
As Jimmy Buffet says, “Only time will tell”!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fair winds,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Craig<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">30 Nov – Day 11 – A
Note of Encouragement</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Those of you who read our sailing blog might find the note
of encouragement received from “Stick” interesting. He sent it after I complained about not
getting enough support from him. Stick
and his lovely wife Ms. P spent a week with us in Croatia in June</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Blabby,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That hurts. I am
giving all kinda shore support. I go to
the Longhorn Tavern down the block from the office, and give a daily report to
the landlubbers. We are all cheering for
you. Of course, I am constantly telling
them the reasons you are not in first place.
Not sure they are buying my reasons.
All I know is we are all pulling for you and they await my daily report
and explanation of why you are not in first.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mostly I have been explaining it is a strategic decision,
lay back, and rush to the finish, knowing your boat and crew and the other
boats and crews. I also tell them they
are not pulling hard enough and questioning my authority on the race is not
conducive to victory. Anyway, tell your
crew the Brenham Armchair Sailors are with them in spirit and grog.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To make it a little more dramatic, I have advised them you
have crossed the point of no return (half-way mark). They like the sound of my term. Now, they
know you’re committed to a victory. That
half-way stuff makes for arguments of the ocean being half empty or half full.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This morning they still have you listed in 6th and I look at
the map you look like 5th, an improvement over yesterday. The Longhorn crew will be happy to hear that.
You need to kick a little ass here, you are gaining on the leaders in Class A;
don't look over your shoulder, there are several sniffing your stern. Just go for the leader.”<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">30 Nov – Day 11 –
Night Watches</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Night watches have become one of our favorite times during
the passage. When fellow crew members
are snoozing, the lone helmsman has special time to observe and “connect” with
the cosmos; to contemplate what we are
doing, what is important, and what meaning there is to our lives. The following poem by Eugene O’Neill reflects
this for me; and perhaps for all of us on this passage:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Long Day’s Journey Into Night</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I lay on the bowsprit, facing astern, with the water foaming
into spume under me, the mast with every sail white in the moonlight, towering
above me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I became drunk with the beauty and singing rhythm of it, and
for a moment I lost myself –actually seemed to lose my life.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was set free!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I dissolved into the sea, became white sails and flying
spray, became beauty and rhythm, became moonlight and the ship and the high
dim-starred sky!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I belonged, without past or future, within peace and unity
and wild joy, within something greater than my own life, or the life of Man, to
Life itself!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To God, if you want to put it that way.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In addition, the billions of phosphorescent phyto-plankton
react to the disturbance of the hull passing through their micro-environment,
with flashes of luminescence. Clouds
dance among the stars and occasionally generate erratic wind gusts that can
throw the auto-helm into spasms.
Meteors, the couriers of the building blocks for life on this planet for
15 billion years, flash across the sky in random directions as they combust
from friction in the atmosphere. As this 23-ton vessel dances over the
waves, I move and imagine dancing in the
arms of Beverly, who will meet me at the end of this voyage. One night, I
witnessed a huge ball of greenish fire, a hundred times larger than a meteor,
light up the sky and clouds brighter than any flare. [I assume it was space debris, perhaps an old
satellite, falling into the atmosphere.] The night watches are one of the rare times,
on such a passage, that one can call “my own.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ed<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">1 Dec – Day 12 –
Double Head Sail</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The skipper said I had to write something. So I shall. Lone
Sar, an Amel 54 is flying a double head sail.
The genoa is on one side and the other sail, called a ballooner, is on
the other slot track. The ballooner sail is cut to almost match the genoa in
size to give us a good balance of pulling power on both sides of the forestay.
Both sails are set to poles mounted at the base of the mast. This for me is an
unusual set up. The poles employ fore and aft guys, double down hauls and the
traditional topping lifts. The poles can be set and left in place while the two
head sails can be reefed together on the head stay. Looks like a shrimp boat
when the sails are furled. I have come to appreciate this sail plan for it has
given us a great downwind ride with minimum role. The skipper said this is
called the Amel Ballooner sail plan. It does require the two poles though. Most
American cruising boats usually carry only one spinnaker pole in the usual set
up plan. This is my first adventure on an Amel and it has been a great ride
with a great skipper and crew. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Capt Ron<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">2 Dec – Day 13 – A
200 Mile Day for Lone Star</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We just finished our noon log entry and calculated the
distance traveled in the last 24 hours.
The calculation, using the trip log on our instruments, was 1,007 minus
808 which was 199 miles traveled. This
was not what we were hoping for so I thought about using outcome based math
which is quite popular these days. This
means that no answer is really wrong. So
the "new math" answer could be a 200 mile day. I kind of like that. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I also reflected on the time a CEO was interviewing
candidates to be his new head accountant. In order to select the best candidate he
provided each with a math problem to solve.
Although entirely coincidental the problem he gave them was what is
1,007 minus 808. The first candidate
pulls out his calculator, enters the numbers and responds promptly and
professionally "the answer is 199".
The second candidate looks the CEO in the eye, says he calculated the
answer in his head and it was 199. The
final candidate asked the CEO why he was asking such a simple question. The CEO said in order to fairly evaluate all
the candidates. After hearing this he
promptly replied, "I'm an accountant and I can make the answer anything
you want it to be and I think you want it to be 200". You will never guess who was hired.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Therefore, I want it to be a 200 mile day so we just had a
200 mile day!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Craig<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">3 Dec – Day 14 – A
Night Watch Moment</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As you know from previous posts the Captain of Lone Star is
all knowing and all seeing. Because of
this omnipotent power I have identified a member of the crew that is starting
to show a little too much of his feminine side.
In order to prepare our shore support team for this change in feelings,
I present you with the note he sent his wife.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Hi Babe. You
know how Craig talks about 98% boredom and 2% terror, well I had a 2% moment
last night. I was on watch from midnight
till 2am and a line of squalls came up behind us. Before I knew it I was doing the dodge the
squalls dance. You can see the squalls
coming on the radar. They look very
ominous. For about 45 minutes I was
steering in 25 - 30 knots winds with heavier gusts. The strongest gust was over 35 knots. We were really flying! Almost 12kts.
There was rain and waves and loud screaming wind. But white knuckled I managed to keep the boat
pointed in the right direction and avoid blowing out our repaired head sail
(ballooner). You will know we survived
by the receipt of this email. I did have
our captain down below giving me moral support.
At one point because of the rain blowing into the boat he closed the door. Very lonely feeling. Anyway I wanted to give you a sense of life
in the mid Atlantic. I am having a great
time and look forward to seeing you on the 8th.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Love you!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Drew"<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">4 Dec – Day 15 – Rock
and Roll on the Night Watch</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G9naIBdmMp4/T1AOtkBCx7I/AAAAAAAAFJE/WvWfvBXRe_Q/s1600/100_2680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G9naIBdmMp4/T1AOtkBCx7I/AAAAAAAAFJE/WvWfvBXRe_Q/s320/100_2680.JPG" width="320" /></a>Once again I am on the 0200-0400 night watch alone in the
cockpit with my iPod playing the golden oldies of rock and roll. The squalls
are behind us now for the night and the clear and starry sky is shining
brightly. I stand beside the mizzen mast
and look up at all the stars swaying to the rhythm of the music and the boat.
It seems to me that the boat is listening to the music also and that the rock
and roll of Lone Star is in concert with the music as the top of the mizzen
mast moves to conduct the stars to the music on my iPod. Oh, what a night, all is well on Lone Star, my
watch and on my little spot of the world. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Capt Ron<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">5 Dec – Day 16 –
Revealing the Secret Weapon</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many of you are familiar with the infamous "Stick"
who visited Lone Star in Croatia and has been leading the central Texas support
team. In a private email to him I
revealed the secret weapon I intended to employ at the right time in order to
zip past the competitors of our racing class at the last minute. I have now employed the secret weapon and we
are cruising along comfortably at 8.5 to 9 knots and are on target for an
arrival in Rodney Bay, St. Lucia around 0800 on the 6th of December. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lone Star will be in full fishing mode tomorrow. We hope to land a medium size tuna so we can
finish off the crossing with another fantastic fresh fish dinner. Everybody on board is doing well and looking
forward to completing a successful crossing.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Craig</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PS It wouldn't be a
secret anymore if I told you what the secret weapon was. I will give one hint. The wind is blowing 4 knots right now.<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">7 Dec – Final Log
Entry</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FhhhEpvEyK4/T1AE3T-ezhI/AAAAAAAAFIo/MmdeFVX03Kw/s1600/IMG_5866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FhhhEpvEyK4/T1AE3T-ezhI/AAAAAAAAFIo/MmdeFVX03Kw/s320/IMG_5866.JPG" width="320" /></a>Sorry about the delay in providing a final log update on our
Atlantic passage. Our passage time was
15 days, 18 hours, 42 minutes and 30 seconds.
We had excellent weather for the crossing with most of the wind being of
the traditional trade winds blowing from the east at speeds from 15 to 25
knots. When we encountered a squall the
winds increased some, but the highest wind we encountered was only 35 knots. The double head sail system did an excellent
job of spilling wind off the top during the gusts and all the crew except for
one enjoyed the thrill of the higher winds and Lone Star surfing down the waves
at speeds as high as 11.5 knots.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ev8pgu3_LY/T1AFKGaofJI/AAAAAAAAFIw/yZC_j0eZxNE/s1600/IMG_5877.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ev8pgu3_LY/T1AFKGaofJI/AAAAAAAAFIw/yZC_j0eZxNE/s320/IMG_5877.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
The passage was not without incident. We encountered a number of issues with the
boat, but were able to overcome each one.
From what I have been able to pick up along the dock, we had fewer
problems than many of the boats. We are
also very fortunate that Amel’s Caribbean maintenance facility is only 25 miles
away on Martinique so I spent some time compiling an A to Z laundry list of
items I want to discuss with them. It
has been over two years since Lone Star has been seen by an Amel technician and
I am looking forward to having the experts help me sort out some of the issues.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzkCjlfZRqLWL3-Ms7-U5e6UFm0iIzPpD7NTT3EmNvM8FmFj3y2BGQenOwzHsiw9p18yFONnsDbu2Vbj-0lFywkBMs-AiZndFHXThh91o8H0_LoxnNS4saCOVW0Rkso_ICtnfQDkrsLyYK/s1600/IMG_0550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzkCjlfZRqLWL3-Ms7-U5e6UFm0iIzPpD7NTT3EmNvM8FmFj3y2BGQenOwzHsiw9p18yFONnsDbu2Vbj-0lFywkBMs-AiZndFHXThh91o8H0_LoxnNS4saCOVW0Rkso_ICtnfQDkrsLyYK/s320/IMG_0550.JPG" width="179" /></a>Lone Star also had its own human drama while underway. One of our crew mates seemed to think he
could ignore safety procedures and I had to explain, on more than one occasion,
that rules related to Personal Flotation Devices are not to be ignored. I also listened to numerous excuses for his
behavior and marveled that not once during the 16 days we were at sea did he
initiate any breakfast or lunch time meal.
He did begrudging cook every fourth day because I insisted that all of the
crew (including myself) participate as cooks for the evening meal. Finally, an interesting item was found
during the boat clean up activities after the disgruntled crew mate left Lone
Star for a hotel on land. We found an
empty bottle of Grand Canarias Licor de Moras in the cubby by his bunk. I don't know what the story is with it and
will probably never find out. I find it disturbing, however, that one of
the crew may have been drinking in his bunk and then going out to stand a night
watch. This was the first time as
skipper I have had to deal with a less than cooperative ship mate and at times
found it challenging. However with the
help of my other two crew members who were nothing short of fantastic, we were
able to overcome the problems of the 4th and formed a tight cohesive unit of
three.<br />
<br />
Yesterday (December
6th) was a day of celebration. Not many
people can say they crossed the Atlantic in a sailboat and we are proud to now
be a part of this group. We are off to
Martinique tomorrow to take Lone Star in the Amel maintenance facility in Le
Marin and then everybody heads home for the holidays.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fair winds,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Craig</div>Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-40788125236198131312011-11-19T08:35:00.001-08:002011-11-19T11:27:00.913-08:00Getting Ready to Depart for Atlantic Crossing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IiOD8H27kgo/TsgC6C1Vv6I/AAAAAAAAEs4/Wj0rYosZ4ak/s1600/IMG_5612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IiOD8H27kgo/TsgC6C1Vv6I/AAAAAAAAEs4/Wj0rYosZ4ak/s200/IMG_5612.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Lone Star has been in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria since November 2nd while the crew has been preparing for the Atlantic crossing. We have joined the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) for the adventure and the fleet of 250 boats will leave Las Palmas around noon on November 20th for the crossing which should take between 16 and 21 days.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qNthGi6_-Fc/TsgCcQavWcI/AAAAAAAAEsw/vZ2xNF0NIy8/s1600/100_2310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qNthGi6_-Fc/TsgCcQavWcI/AAAAAAAAEsw/vZ2xNF0NIy8/s200/100_2310.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
During the opening day celebration we got a picture of three of the crew on the left (Ron Horton, Craig and Ed Robeau) along with a few other Americans that participated in the parade. We are now ready to go and hope you will follow our progress via the ARC website or our blog. <br />
<br />
One of the items provided by the ARC is a tracking devise on each boat
that reports our position every 4 hours. If you go to this link <a href="http://www.worldcruising.com/arc/viewer.aspx" target="_blank">ARC Fleet Viewer</a>
you will be able to find Lone Star. On the left hand side of the Fleet
Viewer is a tab titled Teams. Click on that tab and scroll down till
you see Lone Star. Click on Lone Star and you will be able to follow
our progress. Also, we will be (hopefully) making daily log entries.
Above the Fleet Viewer and below the ARC 2011 Banner is a group of drop
down tabs. Click on Daily Log and scroll down till you see Lone Star.
Click on Lone Star and you'll get an inside view of what it's like to
cross the pond. <br />
<br />
<br />Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-24342438413168826152011-11-02T05:07:00.000-07:002011-11-19T07:17:35.624-08:00Gibraltar to Gran CanariaThe delivery crew consisting of Craig, Mike and Ed arrived in Gibraltar on October 26th and proceeded to bring Lone Star back to life after she sat unattended at Alcaidesa Marina in La Linea, Spain for 60 days. La Linea is right next to the Gibraltar airport on the Spanish side. After getting Lone Star hooked back to shore power and bringing the systems up we walked into La Linea and had a late lunch.<br />
<br />
On the 27th we motored from Spain to Gibraltar and checked into Marina Bay Gibraltar so we would be closer to stores for provisioning. We focused on provisioning that day so we would have time for a tour of the rock before we left.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eYrKlXNpZdM/TsZg5WqSJQI/AAAAAAAAErs/56Oxo3h3fwI/s1600/IMG_5531.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676330918798828802" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eYrKlXNpZdM/TsZg5WqSJQI/AAAAAAAAErs/56Oxo3h3fwI/s200/IMG_5531.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 150px; margin: 0 0 10px 10px; width: 200px;" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FsOBIPPHHoI/TsZg4LZB1EI/AAAAAAAAErk/5wR1_bmS1co/s1600/IMG_5551.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676330898593797186" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FsOBIPPHHoI/TsZg4LZB1EI/AAAAAAAAErk/5wR1_bmS1co/s200/IMG_5551.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 150px; margin: 0 0 10px 10px; width: 200px;" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyRb6SKsrhw/TsZg3w0sHgI/AAAAAAAAErU/eSdlaKxrCeo/s1600/IMG_5542.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676330891462057474" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyRb6SKsrhw/TsZg3w0sHgI/AAAAAAAAErU/eSdlaKxrCeo/s200/IMG_5542.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 150px; margin: 0 0 10px 10px; width: 200px;" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NdA9iLeBwmY/TsZg5m-3_nI/AAAAAAAAEr4/wSk06NWbdt4/s1600/IMG_5530.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676330923180162674" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NdA9iLeBwmY/TsZg5m-3_nI/AAAAAAAAEr4/wSk06NWbdt4/s200/IMG_5530.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 150px; margin: 0 0 10px 10px; width: 200px;" /></a> On Friday Mike and Craig toured the rock. Ran into one of Mike's cousins on the mountain before going into Saint Michael's cave. Took a couple of pictures of the part that had a theater in it. It is still used today. <br />
<br />
We used a favorable weather window to begin the passage from Gibraltar to Las Palmas on 29 October. After spending the morning doing some last minute provisioning we slipped our lines to begin the voyage to Las Palmas, Canaries. We had winds off our stern the entire way along with an Atlantic swell that made Lone Star roll about 20 degrees on each crest. That made it uncomfortable to sleep until we got the hang of wedging ourselves in the bunks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2pcr_jzl7zU/TsZaKYNEmFI/AAAAAAAAErE/Pl6t6grW4Ns/s1600/IMG_5589.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676323514689558610" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2pcr_jzl7zU/TsZaKYNEmFI/AAAAAAAAErE/Pl6t6grW4Ns/s200/IMG_5589.JPG" style="float: right; height: 200px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; width: 150px;" /></a></div>
We used the motor to stay ahead of a weather system in the mid Atlantic. After four nights at sea Lone Star was motoring into Gan Canaria on 1 November and Ed was preparing to raise our Texas flag along with the ARC flag. I am glad we were able to leave when we did because several boats that left a day or two later encountered larger waves and had very uncomfortable passages.Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-56217672533548486212011-09-06T05:03:00.000-07:002011-11-19T07:59:50.005-08:00Back to the Rock<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
After leaving Mahon we spent several days exploring the calas on the the southern coast of Menorca. At first the calas appeared to be delightful anchorages but because of the wind direction we ended up spending several rolly and uncomfortable nights on the hook. We finally decided to abandon Menorca and made a quick trip of thirty two miles to the northern shore of Mallorca where the anchorages were much more comfortable. On August 20 we sailed into familiar surroundings – the harbor of Palma to await the arrival of our last guests of the season. In 2009 we spent the month of June in Mallorca using Palma as our base. This time we set up “shop” at Port Mallorca Marina, a great marina in the heart of the harbor. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hxxp3rRaF4Y/TsfMyx_rmbI/AAAAAAAAEsM/MPPMmsChKH8/s1600/IMG_5345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hxxp3rRaF4Y/TsfMyx_rmbI/AAAAAAAAEsM/MPPMmsChKH8/s200/IMG_5345.JPG" width="200" /></a>On August 24 Alicen Swift and Tiffany Tarrant joined us for several days cruising. Alicen is the assistant director of our favorite charity, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and Tiffany, an Ob/Gyn Doc is her good friend and partner in crime. We spent 3 nights on the hook in three interesting anchorages. Our first stop was Port Soller where we took the tram to the interior town of Soller on of the many places reported to be the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. The second evening we anchored in Santa Ponsa Bay which has one of the best and largest beaches on Mallorca. The girls enjoyed some much needed beach time while Captain Craig enjoyed some solitude on board Lone Star. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-48a2IAYY7_M/TsfN18Q5qrI/AAAAAAAAEsY/ojGo5LcKP6M/s1600/IMG_5368.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-48a2IAYY7_M/TsfN18Q5qrI/AAAAAAAAEsY/ojGo5LcKP6M/s200/IMG_5368.JPG" width="200" /></a> Our final night we dropped the hook at Portal Vells Cala where we explored an <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-48a2IAYY7_M/TsfN18Q5qrI/AAAAAAAAEsY/ojGo5LcKP6M/s1600/IMG_5368.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>ancient sea cave and enjoyed the best snorkeling of our entire three years in the Med. Back in Palma we spent our final day with Alicen and Tiffany exploring the old city and enjoying a wonderful dinner out. A & T jumped ship on August 28 and on the 29th we left Palma for the last time and pointed Lone Star toward Gibraltar. <br />
<br />
We spent the next week retracing our 2009 route as we headed west toward the Rock. As in 2009, we anchored off the island of Ispalmador which is off the coast of Ibiza and also like 2009 we waited out a storm in the Puerto Genoves anchorage. Our final night before arriving GIB was spent in the Benalmadena Marina which we renamed “Wally World” back in ’09. On September 6 at 1640 hours we arrived in Gibraltar, the western gateway to the Med. Our home was the Alcadesa Marina, Spain, just across the Gibraltar border. From our slip we had an excellent view of the Rock from our cockpit. We spent the next few days “buttoning up” the boat and hanging out in GIB enjoying pub grub. On September 13 we said goodbye to Lone Star and started the trek home after traveling 3,243 nautical miles this summer.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-22789190122325689942011-08-10T10:55:00.000-07:002011-08-10T11:59:35.971-07:00June, July and MahonAccording to the pilot books, conventional wisdom and local lore there are three good harbors in the Mediterranean – June, July and Mahon. As we sit in the cockpit on Lone Star in the beautiful and historic harbor of Mahon, Menorca we heartily agree – Mahon is a damn fine harbor!
<br />
<br />We arrived in Mahon on Wednesday, August 3 after a two night sail from the island of Marretimo in the Egadi Islands off the western coast of Sicily. It was an uneventful 50 hours at sea. The first 24 were spent under motor while the second half was a beautiful downwind sail with following seas. We used the jib and mizzen ballooner for the majority of the second day and averaged just over 7 knots. Under cloudy skies we motored into Port Mahon in the morning and were med moored by noon on the Isla Clementina pontoon.
<br />
<br />Menorca is the most easterly of the Balearic Islands. Because of its strategic location in the Med, it has been ruled over by all sorts of folks including Vandals, Byzantines, Moors, Turks, French, and the British before finally coming under Spanish rule in 1802. Puerto de Mahon is an attractive and very interesting port up a deep long cala (bay) with a reputation for great all round protection.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FXioYPgv3uo/TkLJYEK9NuI/AAAAAAAAEpk/9-GAv7fVooA/s1600/IMG_5206.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FXioYPgv3uo/TkLJYEK9NuI/AAAAAAAAEpk/9-GAv7fVooA/s200/IMG_5206.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639291098695022306" border="0" /></a> We were really excited to get to Menorca. In 2009 we bypassed the island when we were in the Balearics and were anxious to see what we missed. The whole area is steeped in history and Craig has just been beside himself the whole time we have been here wondering if Jack Aubrey walked the streets we walked or saw the sites we saw. Now this is a real problem and perhaps Mr. Scott has been at sea just a little too long. You see Jack Aubrey is the main character in the Master and Commander series; the Russell Crowe role in the movie. The problem with this is that Jack Aubrey is a totally fictional character – made up, not real. But did that deter or discourage Captain Craig? Nope, not one bit.
<br />
<br />Mahon has a beautiful harbor walk lined with boats and small marinas on one side and shops, cafes and restaurants in historic buildings on the other. There are ample places to find a slip – even in August. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rW6xmo9sznM/TkLOBB6fa0I/AAAAAAAAEqI/58hK3fec01M/s1600/IMG_5204.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rW6xmo9sznM/TkLOBB6fa0I/AAAAAAAAEqI/58hK3fec01M/s200/IMG_5204.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639296200510237506" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IdFeeGQzKSw/TkLOAjN_5KI/AAAAAAAAEqA/h6zMWtsZE6Y/s1600/IMG_5158.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IdFeeGQzKSw/TkLOAjN_5KI/AAAAAAAAEqA/h6zMWtsZE6Y/s200/IMG_5158.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639296192270558370" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bisAMUoKg0I/TkLN_1jAtYI/AAAAAAAAEp4/qrge9dqtg7E/s1600/IMG_5156.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bisAMUoKg0I/TkLN_1jAtYI/AAAAAAAAEp4/qrge9dqtg7E/s200/IMG_5156.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639296180010661250" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fo9o30vRnGs/TkLOBrYUxuI/AAAAAAAAEqQ/w3LQDQONang/s1600/IMG_5155.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fo9o30vRnGs/TkLOBrYUxuI/AAAAAAAAEqQ/w3LQDQONang/s200/IMG_5155.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639296211641222882" border="0" /></a> Our choice was a bit unusual. We were moored on one of two “floating islands” in the middle of the harbor complete with electricity, and a swimming hole for the kiddos. There was even a Westie on one of the boats which Jan made quick friends with and of course started up the isn’t it about time to get a dog conversation. It’s just a quick dingy ride from the island to the dingy dock. Above the harbor is the historic city center with fish and fresh food markets, churches, plazas, pedestrian walk ways and old historic homes.
<br />
<br />We spent three days on our floating island then motored just two miles out to Cala Taulera located beneath La Mola at the entrance of the harbor.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MVpExYq9uOk/TkLUwAaqiaI/AAAAAAAAEqk/FdPP0bW07ww/s1600/IMG_5183.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MVpExYq9uOk/TkLUwAaqiaI/AAAAAAAAEqk/FdPP0bW07ww/s200/IMG_5183.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639303604631931298" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nt-h_xTAgG4/TkLUviyTShI/AAAAAAAAEqc/UJ2GnNMYCeg/s1600/IMG_5179.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nt-h_xTAgG4/TkLUviyTShI/AAAAAAAAEqc/UJ2GnNMYCeg/s200/IMG_5179.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639303596678007314" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jCQt9kNCQc0/TkLUxE7TuWI/AAAAAAAAEqs/LP201VkO9so/s1600/IMG_5194.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jCQt9kNCQc0/TkLUxE7TuWI/AAAAAAAAEqs/LP201VkO9so/s200/IMG_5194.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639303623022459234" border="0" /></a> La Mola is the site of the Spanish Fort Isabella completed in 1850 and now a tourist site. Interestingly Fort Isabella was obsolete by the time it was completed due to improvements in artillery technology.
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<br />We kept a close eye on the weather and confirmed that a Tramontona (a strong northerly gale) was headed our way with winds of over 30 knots predicted. While our anchorage was completely protected, it was rapidly filling up to the point of being overcrowded and quite frankly unsafe. By Monday morning boats were swinging into each other as more boats were trying to crowd in for protection. Using our sometimes good judgment we decided to abandon the anchorage and came back into the main harbor and tied up securely once again on our Isla Clementina. As we waited out the winds for the last two days we have voiced on more than one occasion “June, July and Mahon – a damn fine harbor!”<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style=" line-height:115%;font-size:12.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-52727135619140678422011-07-23T03:09:00.000-07:002011-07-24T09:09:51.869-07:00On the Hard in Trapani, SicilySo here we are Saturday, 23 July, on the hard in Trapani on the west coast of Sicily. No nothing tragic has happened. However about two weeks ago Craig started noticing a change in the Amel Drive unit oil when he checked it. Instead of a nice pure black color, the oil was beginning to change to a chocolate milk color. This meant that sea water was starting to get into the drive unit. This occurs when the seals start to leak and requires a haul out to correct. We were originally planning to pull the boat in Gibraltar to do all those maintenance items that can’t be attended to when the boat is in the water. Also this would insure that Lone Star would be ready for the ARC. With this new hiccup, we began discussing our options.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BrcPB7jVxU0/TivwzRJpC8I/AAAAAAAAEoA/OaBUNUC_k3s/s1600/IMG_4921.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BrcPB7jVxU0/TivwzRJpC8I/AAAAAAAAEoA/OaBUNUC_k3s/s200/IMG_4921.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632860522524773314" border="0" /></a> All this while we continued to cruise up the up the east coast of Sicily, where we once again crossed paths with Royal Clipper, and out to the Aeolian Islands for a quick spin and then down to the west coast of Sicily. While enjoying our stops on the islands of Vulcano, Lipari, Salina and Filicudi, we considered other places we could pull Lone Star. We ultimately found Boat Services Trapani, requested and received a quote and were assured all the work we wanted done could be handled in a timely fashion. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9CMfHLHm0NE/TixB9aNGzQI/AAAAAAAAEos/o2c5lIrtM-s/s1600/IMG_4972.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9CMfHLHm0NE/TixB9aNGzQI/AAAAAAAAEos/o2c5lIrtM-s/s200/IMG_4972.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632949757195767042" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ps7lxRiaQJA/TixB87G6UVI/AAAAAAAAEok/NA_V1sQgP9g/s1600/IMG_4965.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ps7lxRiaQJA/TixB87G6UVI/AAAAAAAAEok/NA_V1sQgP9g/s200/IMG_4965.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632949748848283986" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u6sCBGYai-s/TixB9rRduDI/AAAAAAAAEo0/6oou-dra0Zg/s1600/IMG_4995.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u6sCBGYai-s/TixB9rRduDI/AAAAAAAAEo0/6oou-dra0Zg/s200/IMG_4995.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632949761777449010" border="0" /></a>In addition to replacing the seals and oil in the Amel drive unit, Lone Star needed a new bottom job, engine and generator oil changes and a transmission fluid change.<br /><br />We pulled into Boat Services Trapani on 19 July at 1700 thinking we would have a berth. Well there were definitely communication problems due to the language but we were able to sort things out and were soon tied up in the slip way with electricity which allowed us to have air conditioning. We were then off to meet with Pietro Zichichi, the boat yard manager and our email contact. Pietro does speak reasonable English which was a relief; however things are done a bit differently in Italy. His thoughts were we should be on the hard for a couple of weeks while we were insisting on no more than seven days. We left the meeting agreeing to meet again at 9AM the next morning and not quite sure how things were going to work out or if they were going to work out. That evening, over adult beverages, we decided that we would do only what was absolutely necessary and then move on. We wanted to be in the Balearic Islands the first part of August.<br /><br />Sure enough the next morning at 9AM Pietro was at the boat. He wanted us to move to another slipway where a new state of the art 80ton boat lift would haul us out. We gladly obliged and what a kewl boat lift. The operator did all the maneuvering with remote controls! Not once did he actually get on the lift and drive it. Bet he’s pretty good at video games. Also the shape of the lift frame was specifically designed for sailboats. Things were looking up. That is until Craig asked to see the Boat Yard insurance policy. Apparently Italians don’t take too kindly to this request and Pietro became quite agitated. He did produce the policy and then demanded Craig produce our insurance policy, which he did. Craig then further explained that in America suing folks is quite common so producing insurance policies is quite common. Well whether Pietro understood or not he gave us a bottle of Sicilian olive oil as a gift, he and Craig shook hands and we were back on track.<br /><br />Lone Star was lifted, her bottom power washed and then she was moved to her home for the next week – we hope! <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TJtTPMzmv6A/TixC4rlG7EI/AAAAAAAAEo8/Hvme5Z9fzCs/s1600/IMG_5021.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TJtTPMzmv6A/TixC4rlG7EI/AAAAAAAAEo8/Hvme5Z9fzCs/s200/IMG_5021.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632950775472122946" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2Tr_JyRPxI/TixC45Zc_rI/AAAAAAAAEpE/xExqym06-J0/s1600/IMG_5047.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2Tr_JyRPxI/TixC45Zc_rI/AAAAAAAAEpE/xExqym06-J0/s200/IMG_5047.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632950779181334194" border="0" /></a> Pietro then informed us that a gentleman would be by to discuss our paint and oil needs and we would buy directly from him and get a 30% discount. Well the gentleman did show but his English was not good at all. However, he got someone from his shop to come over who spoke excellent English and paint options were discussed and orders placed. In the mean time I went to check out the hotel recommended by the boat yard. It was just across the street and as it turned out was one of the ones I had found on the internet that looked like a possibility. After checking it out it was a go. Clean, AC, Wi-Fi, daily breakfast, a boat yard discount and Sky TV with Fox News! Things were definitely looking good. I was having good feelings about how this was going to turn out.<br /><br />We have had a hit a few speed bumps so far but have been able to work things out. When Craig went to the shop to pick up the SAE 20-30W oil needed for the propeller/seal job that he had ordered, he was informed they didn’t have any. So we were off on a search for the oil. We were sent several places without any results then as luck would have it we stumbled upon a marine engine equipment store which carried the oil in 25 liter drums. The job only required 10 but they gladly filled 5 2 liter water bottles full of the stuff and we were back in action. The bottom has been sanded, the first coat of bottom paint is being applied and the boat is being detailed. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8yBsFEootx8/TixDcb_y5dI/AAAAAAAAEpM/1mBVI8fdhfc/s1600/IMG_5050.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8yBsFEootx8/TixDcb_y5dI/AAAAAAAAEpM/1mBVI8fdhfc/s200/IMG_5050.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632951389764380114" border="0" /></a>Craig has successfully removed the propeller and replaced the seals. This time the job was much easier with a gadget he fashioned from a water filter cartridge that helps him to evenly press the new seals into place. He also completed a bonus job by replacing the port aft bumper that had been damaged in Turkey last year.<br /><br />Today Craig was informed that no work will be performed on Saturday or Sunday. Then he went over to the supplier and was informed they did not have the synthetic motor oil he requested. So . . . he went to another shop that was able to provide the oil for the Amel drive unit and found the synthetic oil he wanted plus regular oil for the generator. Now he plans to change the oil and filters this weekend and we will try to get splashed on Monday afternoon.<br /><br />Now if you think I’m just sitting back taking it easy – you are mistaken. I’ve been busy updating our blog and photos plus watching Sky TV – there’s even a horse channel and sometimes it’s even in English! More later. <span style="line-height:115%;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SAfont-family:";font-size:12.0pt;" ></span>Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-45993942782616140382011-07-15T02:33:00.000-07:002011-07-24T09:13:44.935-07:00Heading Back to SicilyWe made quick work of putting the Italian Adriatic Coast in our rear view mirror. After the stunning beauty of Croatia and Montenegro just across the water, we found this side disappointing. The Italian Adriatic Coast is truly uninspiring and uninteresting with no natural wonders to be wowed by and as far as we were concerned, very few ports worth visiting. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kOx0HgdBYMs/TivoXKI73aI/AAAAAAAAEl0/F7Dd_dp1VVQ/s1600/IMG_4799.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kOx0HgdBYMs/TivoXKI73aI/AAAAAAAAEl0/F7Dd_dp1VVQ/s200/IMG_4799.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632851243513404834" border="0" /></a>We definitely got the feeling that the boats we passed coming and going felt the same – we were all just trying to get from Point A to Point B and as quickly as possible. For us Point B was Siracusa on the east coast of Sicily. We pushed hard and managed to cover 335nm in just 2 days. We sailed into Siracusa’s Grand Harbor at 1215 on 10 July and took a slip for one night at the marina. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nz7ulOrOs8Q/TivpYN0f6EI/AAAAAAAAEmI/i74BXIxJ3lk/s1600/IMG_4824.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nz7ulOrOs8Q/TivpYN0f6EI/AAAAAAAAEmI/i74BXIxJ3lk/s200/IMG_4824.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632852361192925250" border="0" /></a>We used the convenience of the marina to easily provision the boat and then quickly headed out to the Grand Harbor where we anchored for another two nights. (150 Euros/night for a slip was all the encouragement we needed to get our provisioning done quickly. Welcome back to Italian prices!)<br /><br />Siracusa is a beautiful blend of old and older. The old town Ortiga was originally settled in 734BC by folks from Corinth and grew to be the largest walled city of ancient Greece. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w3aW50UQey4/TivrHcJ0U7I/AAAAAAAAEmw/uvo27KMAyuU/s1600/IMG_4857.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w3aW50UQey4/TivrHcJ0U7I/AAAAAAAAEmw/uvo27KMAyuU/s200/IMG_4857.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632854272005919666" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rTjmq0pATiI/TivrHpHLlAI/AAAAAAAAEm4/SApbCXH33ys/s1600/IMG_4862.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rTjmq0pATiI/TivrHpHLlAI/AAAAAAAAEm4/SApbCXH33ys/s200/IMG_4862.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632854275484521474" border="0" /></a>Today it is filled with palazzos, narrow alleyways, a Temple of Apollo and of course a domo. From the harbor the view is stunning. Built in the 5th century BC, Siracusa also contains one of the most significant examples of ancient theatres in the world. Siracusa has one of the best markets we’ve seen in the Med. We had a great time wandering thru the stalls of fresh fruit, vegetables and cheeses and listening to the fish mongers shout back and forth to one another and to potential customers.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8RF0V39Zskk/TivqRupyc3I/AAAAAAAAEmc/0hvw0yVtt9A/s1600/IMG_4829.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8RF0V39Zskk/TivqRupyc3I/AAAAAAAAEmc/0hvw0yVtt9A/s200/IMG_4829.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632853349258916722" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SzU23DSEAxM/TivqRfqAPEI/AAAAAAAAEmU/7LZVnjihp0Y/s1600/IMG_4827.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SzU23DSEAxM/TivqRfqAPEI/AAAAAAAAEmU/7LZVnjihp0Y/s200/IMG_4827.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632853345233288258" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y0DxCU5RD-E/TivqR0KcSeI/AAAAAAAAEmk/WGPHPkEvmTs/s1600/IMG_4831.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y0DxCU5RD-E/TivqR0KcSeI/AAAAAAAAEmk/WGPHPkEvmTs/s200/IMG_4831.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632853350738053602" border="0" /></a> We couldn’t resist the fresh tuna and had to take some back to the boat. (Once again – our kind of fishing!) That evening dinner was fresh sesame seed crusted seared tuna over wasabi mash potatoes – dining at its finest and all prepared by Chef Craig.<br /><br />In addition to the sights of Siracusa we were entertained with two attractions while at anchor in the harbor.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UEBPZD_aGuM/Tivr-uS8WnI/AAAAAAAAEnA/j6Y29w-fMkg/s1600/IMG_4839.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UEBPZD_aGuM/Tivr-uS8WnI/AAAAAAAAEnA/j6Y29w-fMkg/s320/IMG_4839.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632855221768837746" border="0" /></a> First was the treat of seeing the Rising Sun, the 6th largest yacht in the world. Rising Sun was originally built for Larry Ellison founder of Oracle and is now owned by David Geffen, one of the founders of DreamWorks and a music industry mogul. We looked up the stats on the yacht and she’s 454 ft and accommodates 16 with a crew of 45. If you’re one of the lucky guests on board you can watch movies in the cinema, relax in the gymnasium/spa/sauna or play basketball on a court which also doubles a landing pad for the yacht’s helicopter. Life is just rough for those on board!<br /><br />We also had front row seats as two Italian fire fighting airplanes put on a show. These planes are used all over the Italian coast to aide in fighting wildfires which are common in the summer – sounds like Texas. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-84wngaS3blg/Tivu3QlmMNI/AAAAAAAAEn0/dus-egAg_mY/s1600/IMG_4888.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-84wngaS3blg/Tivu3QlmMNI/AAAAAAAAEn0/dus-egAg_mY/s200/IMG_4888.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632858392069812434" border="0" /></a> For over an hour we <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7kCU93Ckag/Tivu3QTe_uI/AAAAAAAAEns/ZJIfhZK6RnE/s1600/IMG_4887.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7kCU93Ckag/Tivu3QTe_uI/AAAAAAAAEns/ZJIfhZK6RnE/s200/IMG_4887.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632858391993843426" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10LeUU2oiu8/Tivu3PjvEtI/AAAAAAAAEnk/RYHafYKYzxI/s1600/IMG_4876.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10LeUU2oiu8/Tivu3PjvEtI/AAAAAAAAEnk/RYHafYKYzxI/s200/IMG_4876.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632858391793570514" border="0" /></a>watched these planes swoop down into the harbor, quickly open their tanks which are located in the planes’ pontoons and fill with water while still moving. The planes then flew off to drop the water on an out of site fire and were back in 10 minutes for another round. What really impressed us was the pilots’ amazing ability to do all this while maneuvering between over 30 boats anchored in the harbor without mishap. Truly impressive.Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-74373759815116328742011-07-08T02:29:00.000-07:002011-07-24T02:33:12.935-07:00Bari<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:relyonvml/> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> 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mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style=" line-height:115%;font-size:12.0pt;" ></span></p>We arrived in Bari, Italy the morning of 6 July after an uneventful 125nm run from Kotor, Montenegro. The seas were calm, the skies were filled with a crescent moon and a thousand stars and boat traffic was extremely light. We motored the majority of the way but as dawn was breaking the winds picked up to 12 knots and we enjoyed sailing the rest of the way. Bari, located on the Adriatic coast, is a major transportation and shipping hub. Bari has two ports, Porto Nuovo, which is the commercial harbor, and Porto Vecchio, the old harbor, filled with small fishing boats and private yachts. We elected to pull into Porto Vecchio and tied up on the harbor wall. Once secured we were quickly off the boat and headed for the local yacht club to see if there was an available berth we could use for two days. Folks at the yacht club spoke little English, our Italian was even less but with hand gestures and broken phrases we were able to make our request and they were happy to accommodate us for two nights. At 50 Euros a night including water, electricity and Wi-Fi, it was a true bargain! We quickly walked back around the harbor to Lone Star and moved her into our slip at the yacht club. Then it was off the boat again and a hike to the commercial harbor to officially clear into Italy and the EU. We were directed to several locations and never did make it to the correct window. However at the last stop the officials contacted the correct personnel who drove to us and stamped us in with no problems. <br /><br />With berthing and immigration taken care of it was time to do what we came to Bari for and it wasn’t seeing the sites. We were here for repairs on our second freezer. This unit has given us problems since day one. We have had it serviced several times and always Amel treated it as a warranty issue. While in Dubrovnik the freezer compressor quit working completely which was going to be a costly repair because it was now out of warranty. However, because of the freezer’s track record and with Amel’s help, VECO the freezer manufacturer, agreed to replace the compressor for no charge. Once replaced, the freezer was chilling like a champ and we completed our business in Bari with the purchase of Italy Vodafone sim cards for our phone and computer. After two days it was time to get moving again.<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style=" line-height:115%;font-size:12.0pt;" ></span></p>Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-85896603712869121252011-07-05T02:54:00.000-07:002011-07-07T00:32:43.833-07:00Off to ItalyWe are heading to Bari, Italy today. Plan to get there safe and sound on the morning of 6 July.Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-55712875188104822292011-07-04T13:01:00.000-07:002011-07-05T02:53:53.194-07:00Happy 4th of July from MontenegroGreetings to all from Kortor, Montenegro on this the birthday of our country. As coincidence would have it, this is also Montenegro’s National Holiday. Our journey to Montenegro began with a 35nm sail (ok make that motor) from Cavtat, Croatia on 1 July. Our destination was the Boka Kotorska (Gulf of Kotor) which is just passed the Croatian border. The Gulf of Kotor consists of three large bays – Hercegnovski Zalje, Tivatske Zaljev and Kotorski Zaljev – surrounded by mountains and connected by narrow channels. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v0Vn3XwCigQ/ThLUy_1-7PI/AAAAAAAAEe4/-WIwKUW-9B4/s1600/IMG_4544.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v0Vn3XwCigQ/ThLUy_1-7PI/AAAAAAAAEe4/-WIwKUW-9B4/s200/IMG_4544.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625792857135574258" border="0" /></a>As we entered the Gulf we hoisted the Montenegran courtesy flag and the Q flag and made our way to Zelenika where we cleared customs. Once that piece of business was taken care of we continued on our way deeper into the Gulf.<br /><br />The deeper we went the higher and higher the peaks grew, soaring to over 1,000m. The Gulf is ringed with quaint storybook towns with similar architecture to Croatia’s; terra cotta roofs and beige stone facades without the sparkling finishes but with a grittier, exotic feel. Crossing from Hercegnovski Bay into the two deeper bays we had to pass thru the Verigie Strait which is a tight bottleneck of a passage and the key to the Bay of Kotor’s success;<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bc4BXVPuKPY/ThLVXpOtLAI/AAAAAAAAEfA/4A29ymJoF3I/s1600/IMG_4559.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bc4BXVPuKPY/ThLVXpOtLAI/AAAAAAAAEfA/4A29ymJoF3I/s200/IMG_4559.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625793486720412674" border="0" /></a> invaders had to pass thru here to reach the port towns inside and the narrowness of the strait made them easy pickings. At the opposite end of the strait is the town of Perast which from its strategic location guarded the strait.<br /><br />In its heyday Perast was a wealthy Venetian town which fell on hard times after Napoleon conquered the region. We tied up alongside the town harbor and enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the harbor enjoying the Venetian architecture and taking a peek inside St. Nicholas Church, dedicated to the patron saint of fishermen.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0zoSD6y2qMU/ThLWUlLC_dI/AAAAAAAAEfM/a-qdsEHudbc/s1600/IMG_4727.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0zoSD6y2qMU/ThLWUlLC_dI/AAAAAAAAEfM/a-qdsEHudbc/s200/IMG_4727.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625794533603343826" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9SASVNYkrFk/ThLWU-U4tOI/AAAAAAAAEfU/65IAn9TYTFs/s1600/IMG_4729.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9SASVNYkrFk/ThLWU-U4tOI/AAAAAAAAEfU/65IAn9TYTFs/s200/IMG_4729.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625794540355499234" border="0" /></a> Wanting to support the local economy, we took a water taxi instead of our dingy to the two small islands off Perast, St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks. St. George is a small, rocky island with a monastery and closed to the public. Legend has it that two fishermen found an icon of Mary on the island and when they repeatedly tried to take it to the mainland the icon was washed overboard to her original site. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cdoETELZ-kA/ThLWrq3lPTI/AAAAAAAAEfc/vXy2wLeRL-A/s1600/IMG_4687.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cdoETELZ-kA/ThLWrq3lPTI/AAAAAAAAEfc/vXy2wLeRL-A/s200/IMG_4687.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625794930269306162" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0HFfX4VUuY/ThLWry4hefI/AAAAAAAAEfk/05qvxDAsXs4/s1600/IMG_4694.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0HFfX4VUuY/ThLWry4hefI/AAAAAAAAEfk/05qvxDAsXs4/s200/IMG_4694.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625794932420737522" border="0" /></a>Apparently the fishermen finally got the message and left the icon in her original place. Since that time returning seamen would visit the site and drop rocks in the same place as an offering. Eventually more than 100 old ships were filled with stones and intentionally sunk in the same spot creating a much larger island. We docked at Our Lady of the Rocks home to a 17th century Catholic Church and filled with symbols of thanks and prayers. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wbYh95Fo84c/ThLXicoUNwI/AAAAAAAAEfw/-r4GznlHxrE/s1600/IMG_4706.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wbYh95Fo84c/ThLXicoUNwI/AAAAAAAAEfw/-r4GznlHxrE/s200/IMG_4706.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625795871339984642" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BvbwqvIJmbw/ThLXizp8LTI/AAAAAAAAEf4/WhdqApFdkQA/s1600/IMG_4717.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BvbwqvIJmbw/ThLXizp8LTI/AAAAAAAAEf4/WhdqApFdkQA/s200/IMG_4717.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625795877520813362" border="0" /></a>The walls are lined with Baroque paintings and a huge collection of wedding bouquets, given by brides who marry there, cover the alter.<br /><br />We continued on our way toward the town of Kotor located at the deepest point of Kotorski Bay. As we neared the town we passed an old friend anchored out in the bay,<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ze8LdUAngmE/ThLcKOmvozI/AAAAAAAAEgE/3CMF0QgRzXU/s1600/IMG_4588.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ze8LdUAngmE/ThLcKOmvozI/AAAAAAAAEgE/3CMF0QgRzXU/s200/IMG_4588.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625800952816575282" border="0" /></a> Royal Clipper, who we cruised on in 2005. There has been a town at this site since the time of Christ. The Old Town is a crazy, mixed up walled village which obviously didn’t see the need of a city planner. While Dubrovnik’s streets are laid out in an easy to navigate grid, Kotor’s streets run every which way with no rhyme or reason. The protective walls cross the waterfront and then zigzag up the sheer cliff face behind the town. To make it to the top you have to climb over 1,500 steps <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zOQcXqexNng/ThLcpH94IiI/AAAAAAAAEgU/J-OsPDA7SCk/s1600/IMG_4628.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zOQcXqexNng/ThLcpH94IiI/AAAAAAAAEgU/J-OsPDA7SCk/s200/IMG_4628.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625801483610497570" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kAO-de97Oco/ThLcooJ61bI/AAAAAAAAEgM/OXmmxmVLw_I/s1600/IMG_4596.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kAO-de97Oco/ThLcooJ61bI/AAAAAAAAEgM/OXmmxmVLw_I/s200/IMG_4596.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625801475071071666" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zi7v4cXiUIQ/ThLcpjhu_LI/AAAAAAAAEgc/sC09msxhkDE/s1600/IMG_4636.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zi7v4cXiUIQ/ThLcpjhu_LI/AAAAAAAAEgc/sC09msxhkDE/s200/IMG_4636.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625801491008650418" border="0" /></a>gaining over 700 feet in elevation. Exercising extreme intelligence, we elected to go as far as the Church of Our Lady of Health, a third of the way up and enjoy the views down below of the old town.<br /><br />We spent three days in Kotor anchoring out in the bay or med moored to the town wall. We had a great time visiting the market, <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kmit3cPz9_0/ThLdsBgnfYI/AAAAAAAAEgo/lLhe055Q__M/s1600/IMG_4598.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kmit3cPz9_0/ThLdsBgnfYI/AAAAAAAAEgo/lLhe055Q__M/s200/IMG_4598.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625802632928394626" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dFtstDZB1bY/ThLdtn0EDYI/AAAAAAAAEg4/O3qPmDlhUVw/s1600/IMG_4647.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dFtstDZB1bY/ThLdtn0EDYI/AAAAAAAAEg4/O3qPmDlhUVw/s200/IMG_4647.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625802660390374786" border="0" /></a>wandering the streets, visiting the Catholic Cathedral of St. Tryphon and the Orthodox St. Nicholas’ Church, <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wugKDKtWuck/ThLecVK9PKI/AAAAAAAAEhE/BqLPPrBdVII/s1600/IMG_4605.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wugKDKtWuck/ThLecVK9PKI/AAAAAAAAEhE/BqLPPrBdVII/s200/IMG_4605.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625803462839975074" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ChET3WYFAe8/ThLecgJDh7I/AAAAAAAAEhM/u0lK6Br4oXo/s1600/IMG_4613.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ChET3WYFAe8/ThLecgJDh7I/AAAAAAAAEhM/u0lK6Br4oXo/s200/IMG_4613.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625803465784788914" border="0" /></a>checking out the large mega yachts and enjoying people watching from our cockpit or one of many town cafes.<br /><br />We celebrated the 4th with a traditional meal of chili dogs, beer and watermelon – love that Carni Food <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y63CHDojJI4/ThLeyv0nTeI/AAAAAAAAEhU/zc3zez_Uoug/s1600/IMG_4770.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y63CHDojJI4/ThLeyv0nTeI/AAAAAAAAEhU/zc3zez_Uoug/s200/IMG_4770.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625803847951142370" border="0" /></a>and enjoyed Kotor’s own version of fireworks. At night the town walls are lit, ringing the city with a beautiful glow.<br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4giWrHMvYTk/ThLfC4WTXrI/AAAAAAAAEhc/TVnekPnpLlI/s1600/IMG_4765.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4giWrHMvYTk/ThLfC4WTXrI/AAAAAAAAEhc/TVnekPnpLlI/s400/IMG_4765.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625804125117832882" border="0" /></a><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style=" line-height:115%;font-size:12.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"></span></span></p>Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-66637512639329074872011-07-03T04:57:00.000-07:002011-07-04T23:39:25.088-07:00A Unique Blog Update from a Visitor to Lone Star<span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" >Capt’n Blabby and Stick’s Reunion Voyage---2011 Dubrovnik to Trogir, Croatia</span><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" >or</span><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" >How Stick Spent His Summer Vacation</span><br /></div><br />For all you landlubbers, want-a-be sailors and seasoned salts, this is a “true story” of the Reunion Voyage of Capt’n Blabby and Stick. All names are fictitious to protect any innocence the actors may claim. Any of you folks that have kept up with our adventures--know our history. And of course, there are those less enlightened souls that have not. To those less enlightened a little history will add to this voyage.<br /><br />J-J (the lovely bride of Capt’n Blabby) and Stick are childhood friends. Our parents attended high school together. We grew up in the same neighborhood, attended the same schools, Red Elementary, Johnston Jr. High and, Westbury High School. Westbury being the home of the Fightin’ Rebels and their mascot Johnny Reb, resembled Nick Adams on The Rebel, a hit TV show in the late 50’s and early 80’s. Westbury’s fame is worldwide. As evidence by Westbury’s and the Confederate States of America’s Battle Flag honorably painted on a monument in Hvar, Croatia.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BVp2roGyFv8/ThHXyxO44AI/AAAAAAAAESk/zpNCYXihif8/s1600/IMG_4180.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BVp2roGyFv8/ThHXyxO44AI/AAAAAAAAESk/zpNCYXihif8/s320/IMG_4180.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625514676771676162" border="0" /></a>My lovely bride, Ms. P. on the left (also a graduate of the famed Westbury); yours truly, Stick in the middle; and J-J on the right. One thing about the good ol’ Westbury Rebels is: ours was about heritage not prejudice. Sadly, political correctness flushed our honorable heritage down the toilet shortly after our graduation. Johnny Rebel was replaced with “Rowdy Rebel” whose resemblance was exactly that of Yosemite frickin’ Sam, who lead the once proud and victorious alter mater to its present state of defeat and decline.<br /><br />Not to be getting away for the voyage, this is just to let you know J-J and Stick have a little “history”, if you know what I mean. Capt’n Blabby, well he was a late comer-a-longer. The Capt’n and I became buddies in College, at the pride of the State of Texas: Texas A & M University. Although our exact introduction is blurred by history and mystery, we meet through sailing and a lanky dude named Cajun Joe, the promoter of the largest and longest running booray game in the history of A & M. Rumor has it Cajun Joe profited so from the game he escaped back to Louisiana and attend LSU. Cajun Joe had a history of escaping, as he also escaped Castro’s Cuba in his early days. Cajun Joe frequently sails on Lone Star and Seabbatical. (Frequently here means more that I have cruised on Lone Star and Seabbatical.) Others claim, Blabby and I became buds as we both drank the same favorite beer: free and cold. Being teammates on the sailing team at A & M, I was able to teach Capt’n Blabby all he knows about sailing. Thankfully, we had Joe Gray who designed the Headhunter Catamaran also on board. Joe assisted me, only when necessary, to teach Blabby the finer points of sailboat design, construction and theory. Few may know or realize, Joe and I taught Blabby how to build his first sailboat, the Headhunter Catamaran. OK, Blabby did have a hand in it and without us his hand would have been worthless. And there was Steve Pearce, who taught us the enjoyment of patience while waiting for the 4 o’clock winds on Lake Summerville. And we cannot forget Tarzan Tom, who earned his name by wearing diapers on a Texas Clipper summer cruise and swinging from a rope and yodeling like Tarzan. Yes, things can get crazy at sea. A point you fellas sailing Lone Star across the Atlantic to Saint Lucia might want to remember. Tarzan Tom inspired adventure and the fact that even a blind hog can find an acorn and no voyage is impossible. Tarzan Tom’s claim to fame was he sailed a Venture 21 across the Sea of Cortez, there and back, stocked only with plastic jugs of water and an igloo. Anyway, we all remained as Lake Somerville sailors, Blabby rose to the rank of Capt’n and set off to sail the Seven Seas, bragging of his voyages by post card. At least, now you know where the mighty adventurer had his humble beginnings and training. Something I am sure he has not shared with you as I am sure he only boasts of his captain school and other maritime institutes he attended. Anyway, Jan visited to A & M; and some claim I introduced the happy couple, others claim it was fate. As far as I am concerned it is a mystery---it makes a better story. Thankfully she attended and graduated from A & M, and Craig had the good sense to marry her. So, after years of begging and pleading on my part, and using the guilt card and every other ploy at hand----Capt’n Blabby relented to this reunion tour---knowing I would reveal his humble sailing upbringings and those who taught him so well. Well, it is time to stow the gear, hoist the sails and begin our journey as shown on the map below. The numbered circles indicating the places we anchored or docked each night.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oYm990hYUNw/ThIcxmNvyxI/AAAAAAAAEVw/kljtCPNy6vo/s1600/Trip%2BMap_crop.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 276px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oYm990hYUNw/ThIcxmNvyxI/AAAAAAAAEVw/kljtCPNy6vo/s400/Trip%2BMap_crop.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625590522936544018" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"> Dan Jedan: DUBROVNIK</span>, on mainland Croatia<br /><div style="text-align: left;">(Stick sharing a little of the Croatian language he learned on the trip: “Day One” in the Mother Tongue for you English speakers.)<br /></div><br />Of course the adventure begins with Blabby figuring a way to screw Stick. The boy has control issues. The Capt’n found a harbor with the oddest numbering system in the world. The Capt’n tired to explain it to me as odd and even numbering. It made no sense. I think it was as drunk Messkin’, on a three legged donkey, using spray paint to number the slips any which way the donkey hobbled and gravity fell. Anyway, after wondering the dockets with my lovely bride, and being offered (or lease my bride was offered) passages on several yachts, we notice the high, and mighty Capt’n Blabby on the stern of the proud Lone Star; Ol’ Glory waiving in the wind to his right and the Texas Flag flying high above from the main mast spreader. Damn, you might have thought it was a movie set. How does Blabby pull this stuff off? So, much for my grand entrance.<br /><br />At this point, we had to pay our tariff to board Lone Star: two liters of Captain Morgan, a spicy run named after Blabby’s hero. It was also at this point I realize I was Capt’n Blabby’s cargo mule. I had to give up my checked luggage to pack stuff Blabby needed: flags, lubricants, log books, parts and a case of Wolfe Brand Hot Dog Chili Sauce---damn if Blabby did not get to me again. I am telling ya, it is control issues.<br /><br />After a quick and manly handshake Capt’n Blabby and I did what all good sailor men do, hug the ladies. Although, I do think the Capt’n spent a little too much time huggin’. I had warned Ms. P to do the sideways, one-arm, half-hug thing but, O’ no---she had to be cutzie and do the both arm full frontal hug thing. A mistake she will not repeat. After the greetings, an adult beverage or two (who counts such items?) were shared. J-J manufactured some sandwiches that were true nectar to the hungry crew. A tour of the yacht was conducted, with me constantly wiping drool from my chin. This was the first time my feet had stepped on such a fine sailing ship—this was a long way from Lake Somerville. Ms. P and I stowed our gear and we settled in for the best customized cruise and personalized tour anyone could dream.<br /><br />The ACI Dubrovnik Marina, where the Lone Star was berthed and we began this adventure, was very impressive. Check out the pheasant and the gardens located on the grounds: <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1hOi0zLIkbM/ThHxwRE7MHI/AAAAAAAAETA/QGIFO1XLlHE/s1600/IMG_3970.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1hOi0zLIkbM/ThHxwRE7MHI/AAAAAAAAETA/QGIFO1XLlHE/s200/IMG_3970.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625543221082534002" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqc-RWjks9IOZUz95qrkm1n7YX-l4wu6_-UZ29vTWA5t__c3e-mwRCWRr5P6w5vlIeYdwQw2IEt6hyykuvNt01CEiBOyUs_gdfXebarXB_LmAM5-dSSmqGIAOOh9Y8BCMyKT2bZIgnx1i8/s1600/DSCN0019.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqc-RWjks9IOZUz95qrkm1n7YX-l4wu6_-UZ29vTWA5t__c3e-mwRCWRr5P6w5vlIeYdwQw2IEt6hyykuvNt01CEiBOyUs_gdfXebarXB_LmAM5-dSSmqGIAOOh9Y8BCMyKT2bZIgnx1i8/s200/DSCN0019.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625543230374838802" border="0" /></a> I enjoyed sitting on the deck and admiring the picturesque church across the marina:<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v2lxI3aBq_g/ThHyvv191_I/AAAAAAAAETQ/UlrOHk_Xeo0/s1600/06082011285.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v2lxI3aBq_g/ThHyvv191_I/AAAAAAAAETQ/UlrOHk_Xeo0/s200/06082011285.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625544311673051122" border="0" /></a> According to Cruise Director J-J, a must sight to do and see was the Old Wall of the old City of Dubrovnik. We waited till the cool of the afternoon and began the tour: <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kw0REhJ1Tjc/ThHzVWklZaI/AAAAAAAAETY/HVcA6FxBbzs/s1600/IMG_3998.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kw0REhJ1Tjc/ThHzVWklZaI/AAAAAAAAETY/HVcA6FxBbzs/s200/IMG_3998.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625544957724288418" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mYAXh0WuLXQ/ThHzV8jUYtI/AAAAAAAAETg/QzifrFYP0tM/s1600/IMG_3973.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mYAXh0WuLXQ/ThHzV8jUYtI/AAAAAAAAETg/QzifrFYP0tM/s200/IMG_3973.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625544967919526610" border="0" /></a> With her usual good planning, J-J pre-purchased vouchers for the bus which we rode into the heart of Dubrovnik and the old town. As we departed the bus, I saw a city fountain. I had read about these and was excited to have the opportunity to drink the sweet, cool water from these old fountains. Maybe I am as simple as the ol’ Capt’n claims as these fountains were one of many highlights on this voyage. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XPYzVbJsoF8/ThHz3FDy54I/AAAAAAAAETo/Vaw2i_WlGe4/s1600/DSCN0026.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XPYzVbJsoF8/ThHz3FDy54I/AAAAAAAAETo/Vaw2i_WlGe4/s200/DSCN0026.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625545537138911106" border="0" /></a> After enjoying the drink, filling my water bottle, we began the hike of the City Walls, with whom else but, our faithful Cruise Director J-J leading the way:<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MxTbHLH4D4Y/ThH1VtWSIEI/AAAAAAAAEUQ/RVADkxpPOJ0/s1600/IMG_4012.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MxTbHLH4D4Y/ThH1VtWSIEI/AAAAAAAAEUQ/RVADkxpPOJ0/s200/IMG_4012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625547162861576258" 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src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmM0yfVY9eUmMkMZScOAVy0yZFj-afKsoIrW1ZAGXLjXtDFsjxy5FdNTl-b2cUMydnIb3tn7obd31JEXwhigOetbA2WAnn-ezNh7rhjIdftbVT9MKmdiRhqIQPM_zpXQU-1lbL2SM6W-J/s200/IMG_3975.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625548748773653618" border="0" /></a><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Garamond","serif"; mso-no-proof:yesfont-family:";font-size:12.0pt;" ></span></p>Capt’n Blabby taking a breather and Stick waiting with him so, as not to made his good buddy look bad. 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name="Bibliography"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="39" qformat="true" name="TOC Heading"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12.0pt;" ></span></p>A view of the Main Street, Old Duvronik from atop the wall, really just another exucse of Blabby to take a break, stop, frame a shot, shot, check the photo, re-frame, re-shoot, come on Blabby, we gotta get going: A view back to Duvronik from the Wall:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7d7XZ7rCjQ4oO8P9rdEHgNzpxANZa8F_i18wL9nHlV7k3ogDZZoMLmjZYuN7vMcWefhdNlOUwsv0PuQYYm5CD_8sDLoOheMdXWEX_fiMITDxKIEutYF4o9r2aH8jF5Ao4OeJWfkZ2rVRw/s1600/DSCN0030.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7d7XZ7rCjQ4oO8P9rdEHgNzpxANZa8F_i18wL9nHlV7k3ogDZZoMLmjZYuN7vMcWefhdNlOUwsv0PuQYYm5CD_8sDLoOheMdXWEX_fiMITDxKIEutYF4o9r2aH8jF5Ao4OeJWfkZ2rVRw/s200/DSCN0030.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625550542929813474" border="0" /></a> We re talking success now, Ms. P, Stick and Blabby atop the Wall:<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xa73CsUE7tY/ThH5CkH_FtI/AAAAAAAAEVE/oZftFz8gtWk/s1600/IMG_3979.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xa73CsUE7tY/ThH5CkH_FtI/AAAAAAAAEVE/oZftFz8gtWk/s200/IMG_3979.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625551232014685906" border="0" /></a> One think about Wall hiking and then searching for a Post Office to mail Post Cards to my kids and photographs to J-J’s Mom, you build up a mighty thirst. This is one point, where Capt’n Blabby excells. He takes care of the needs of his crew. We wondered down several alleys and found a nice little café to enjoy a grog. OK, it may have been two grogs, again who keeps count of such things except the bartender.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQmp_vOCuA0iXNNoU_kkqE0GBLGiQVrUEVFWjEVrUHF5U9bsqFDMi2ruePjxtBWzCSb-gmh_aGheNUf8whmPP6NPBwGZpbWC65LPneKHZwHT_EAV5UmfIMPS8DK0CY8KA3B-4hNnKGCN_/s1600/DSCN0034.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQmp_vOCuA0iXNNoU_kkqE0GBLGiQVrUEVFWjEVrUHF5U9bsqFDMi2ruePjxtBWzCSb-gmh_aGheNUf8whmPP6NPBwGZpbWC65LPneKHZwHT_EAV5UmfIMPS8DK0CY8KA3B-4hNnKGCN_/s200/DSCN0034.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625551637860123570" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Somehow, we boarded the correct bus and arrived back at the Marina. A good meal, a couple of toddies and we had a grand start for the Reunion Voyage.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Dan Dva:</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> Dubrovnik to </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >LOPUD</span><span style="font-size:130%;">, on the Island of Lopud</span><br /><br />The bride and I arose to a bright day at 4:00 a.m. Man, it gets bright early in Croatia. No problem, more time to enjoy the day. Right! We slid the hatch blind shut and went back to sleep. Let the early bird have the worm. We enjoyed the sweet sleep of early morn.<br /><br />When we did roll out of the rack, J-J and prepared a continental breakfast. The jams and jellies and the butter seem so much sweeter in this part of the World. Ms. P lived in Holland as a child and had been telling me of the breads and jams and butter how good they were. Well, J-J’s spread exceeded my taste bud’s expectations.<br /><br />After breakfast, the Capt’n stated, we need to buy four potatoes before we leave. I asked why and was told for supper. I may be simple but, why four only? I am thinking control issues again. Well, we set off on foot to find potatoes. We find them everywhere and in sealed bags of 20 or more. And we keep looking for four individual potatoes. At this point, I know Blabby is toying with me. Anyway, after much discussion, debate and frustration, we finally come to the bottom line: are we sailors or potatoes hunters? We choose to purchase the sealed bag full of spuds, thinking this would validate we were sailors.<br /><br />With spuds in hand, we are at last ready to sail the Adriatic Sea. Here is the workhorse, Ol’ Stick stowing the bumpers. The Lone Star being under the able command of J-J at this time. Who knows where the Capt’n is. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HnOHqiEOhJ4/ThIgZGYKgSI/AAAAAAAAEWI/6Yxb6U68JZY/s1600/DSCN0042.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HnOHqiEOhJ4/ThIgZGYKgSI/AAAAAAAAEWI/6Yxb6U68JZY/s200/DSCN0042.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625594500119953698" border="0" /></a> Stick and Ms. P styling on the foredeck as we head out of town: <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KMeXQDxYwVs/ThIgzccOKRI/AAAAAAAAEWQ/_cv2Jrlcq6U/s1600/DSCN0046.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KMeXQDxYwVs/ThIgzccOKRI/AAAAAAAAEWQ/_cv2Jrlcq6U/s200/DSCN0046.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625594952719149330" border="0" /></a>We left the Port of Dubrovnik, passing under its new and impressive bridge: <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cxYzh5Ez42A/ThIhJ0ZTlgI/AAAAAAAAEWY/MtUy-LSuT-E/s1600/DSCN0049.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cxYzh5Ez42A/ThIhJ0ZTlgI/AAAAAAAAEWY/MtUy-LSuT-E/s200/DSCN0049.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625595337106494978" border="0" /></a>The unique thing about this bridge was only one support tower. You see it in the picture. Usually you see another tower at the other side of the bridge. Here they decided to just use one and I guess the span was short enough that one support tower was it required. Two may have been more balanced artistically but, not necessary.<br /><br />The voyage to Lopud was a bit bumpy. Seas were running about 3 to 5 feet. We had to motor most of the way as we headed directly into the wind. Being her first sail, Ms. P was a bit green around the gills and toughed it out. Taking the helm seems to help with the off colored gills. Her smile returned—kinda… <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KZkOrz4R6RE/ThIh65wBFfI/AAAAAAAAEWk/EY_8cuR0b6E/s1600/IMG_4029.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KZkOrz4R6RE/ThIh65wBFfI/AAAAAAAAEWk/EY_8cuR0b6E/s200/IMG_4029.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625596180357518834" border="0" /></a> Our first approach to the Island of Lopud was on its southern shore. An inlet with a restaurant claiming to serve the best hamburgers in Croatia. That claim was enough for us to consider it as an anchorage.<br /><br />With the wind blowing directly into this inlet, it was rough. As we were approaching, Chief Nava-guessor J-J (she wears many hats) smartly rerouted the Lone Star to the island’s north shore and the town of Lopud. I guess being the only town on the island; it shares the name of the island. As we came around the island, and saw the inlet and town of Lopud, there was a WOW factor. The setting was post card picture perfect. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jYAl8jy0JYE/ThIii-lcorI/AAAAAAAAEWs/y2gUEloe5Ok/s1600/IMG_4045.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jYAl8jy0JYE/ThIii-lcorI/AAAAAAAAEWs/y2gUEloe5Ok/s200/IMG_4045.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625596868850131634" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RRBYjh1uTM4/ThIim7S7l_I/AAAAAAAAEW0/RgIXf2AvLS0/s1600/IMG_4049.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RRBYjh1uTM4/ThIim7S7l_I/AAAAAAAAEW0/RgIXf2AvLS0/s200/IMG_4049.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625596936686639090" border="0" /></a>It was my mental image of Croatian island village. The buildings with the matching reddish-orange tile roofs, a church perched on the point, a small harbor and cafes along the coast line.<br /><br />Approaching to anchor, there were two boats in the bay. One to the port side and one on the starboard. The one on the port side was manned by Lee and Judy, ol’ friends of Blabby and J-J. The to starboard, radioed us and commented he could not anchor because of the seaweed. I think he just want to anchor closer to us to check out our hot chicks. Why else did they have binoculars pointed towards our female crew? Thankfully, Capt’n Blabby was properly trained by the Lake Somerville crew knew how to handle the anchorage. He turned the helm over to J-J and proceeded to the foredeck, found us a sandy spot and in dropped the hook. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLpio9MRjds/ThIjHWb0PWI/AAAAAAAAEW8/53O5zkOSsk8/s1600/DSCN0059.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLpio9MRjds/ThIjHWb0PWI/AAAAAAAAEW8/53O5zkOSsk8/s200/DSCN0059.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625597493727477090" border="0" /></a>The poor saps, who said too many weeds to anchor, were not only embarrassed by our successful hook, they realized they were no match for the hardy Capt’n Blabby and Stick. Thankfully, they had some pride and kept trying till they too hooked their anchor to the bottom.<br /><br />After anchoring, we were introduced to one of the best traditions of Lone Star. The toasting of a successful anchorage or docking. This is a tradition that requires the use of fine crystal tumblers awarded to Lone Star upon her christening. The tumblers being chilled and then filled will cold beer. If a good anchorage only one beer is consumed in the toast. If a bad anchorage, two or more grogs are consumed. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2hno2SZDyok/ThIjlF2CwJI/AAAAAAAAEXE/KEdUQrXa77A/s1600/IMG_4274.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2hno2SZDyok/ThIjlF2CwJI/AAAAAAAAEXE/KEdUQrXa77A/s200/IMG_4274.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625598004670152850" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The tumbler with wine is Ms. P. We thought about complaining that that was not the tradition but, we quickly realized that left more beer for us.<br /><br />Well, we had our toast and then Capt’n Blabby looks around and complains I used knot securing the dingy was not as tight as it should be. As Capt’n, he immediately declares it a bad anchorage and another beer is consumed. Then as fate would have, the ol’ eagle-eyed Capt’n notices why he claims is another improper knot tied by Stick----a bad anchorage declared---- another beer is consumed. After this beer, I decided, I best go swimming. I am tried of being the whipping-boy.<br /><br />I have swum in clear blue waters. This was different. Usually, as I stand on the shore or on the deck of a boat, the water looks blue and clear. When I jump in and look down at my feet, I see clear but, no blue. In the Adriatic Sea, it was different. I saw clear and BLUE to my feet. It is the most beautiful blue, clear water I have seen.<br /><br />Upon boarding the boat after my refreshing dip, I heard our able Capt’n trying to impress the ladies by is knowledge of the trees on the island. He pointed out some Palms being as largest in Croatia. Check out the photo and you see they are almost as tall as the Church steeple. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BkEV7wcTlYk/ThIkpjGNk9I/AAAAAAAAEXM/txZ9MRI7CPk/s1600/IMG_4046.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BkEV7wcTlYk/ThIkpjGNk9I/AAAAAAAAEXM/txZ9MRI7CPk/s200/IMG_4046.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625599180753703890" border="0" /></a> Lopud could be my favorite island. It has two scars. One old and one new. Neither fit the island and both distract from the island.<br /><br />The new scar is a goofy looking modern hotel. It is a sore thumb. It’s architecture does not fit I with the environment or other structures. Hopefully, it will be the only such sore thumb on the island. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4S7jrLOJLWI/ThIlidg9nGI/AAAAAAAAEXY/6LU3yE0yyvg/s1600/DSCN0057.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4S7jrLOJLWI/ThIlidg9nGI/AAAAAAAAEXY/6LU3yE0yyvg/s200/DSCN0057.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625600158507834466" border="0" /></a>The old scar is the old commie hotel/resort on the island. This is an artifact left from the days when Croatia was under commie control. It is dark, dungy concrete and so ugly, my camera refused to take its picture. Thankfully, overgrown vegetation covered much of this relic.<br /><br />We boarded the dingy and headed ashore docking the dingy at the town harbor: <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ALYa15o-tCY/ThIl9yG6MVI/AAAAAAAAEXg/hWiRiDLwoJk/s1600/IMG_4043.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ALYa15o-tCY/ThIl9yG6MVI/AAAAAAAAEXg/hWiRiDLwoJk/s200/IMG_4043.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625600627892171090" border="0" /></a>Just as we docked we noticed a fruit and vegetable stand. And what did this stand have, the mighty potato. And they could be purchased individually. Now, what are the odds? A little island and it had the potatoes the way the Capt’n wanted them, sold individually. Remember, I told you I thought Blabby was toying with us about potatoes in Dubrovnik, well this validated it. Man, you gotta be on your toes around this guy.<br /><br />We checked out the Churches on the island. Each unique and impressive. We verified the palm trees were tall. And we happened upon some huge pine trees. They had a beautiful canopy. It was a surprise find and wowed each of us. Here is J-J holding up the<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AcW9EyDotS4/ThImg5PZc0I/AAAAAAAAEXo/UEuWeACib8k/s1600/IMG_4035.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AcW9EyDotS4/ThImg5PZc0I/AAAAAAAAEXo/UEuWeACib8k/s200/IMG_4035.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625601231102243650" border="0" /></a> tree: We met a couple of good Ags on the beach, visited with them awhile. Strolled along till we found some pizza and gelato. The café was overlooking the bay. And it seems good opportunity to photograph our most gracious hos<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGNOWUikcrWLNeu97OoDp8P7n2a5aYSOaGJ7ahFsi2PgoB4yb9AM33bL1gq_2sLS82YEGi4HBsqMjM5CzvEwxIpdp8sF4Pp2j4FJXdHGk5JPQ36Ix6prEx-jbPe2yctzCBFDTPTs-H8RJ1/s1600/IMG_4039.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGNOWUikcrWLNeu97OoDp8P7n2a5aYSOaGJ7ahFsi2PgoB4yb9AM33bL1gq_2sLS82YEGi4HBsqMjM5CzvEwxIpdp8sF4Pp2j4FJXdHGk5JPQ36Ix6prEx-jbPe2yctzCBFDTPTs-H8RJ1/s200/IMG_4039.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625601784895856402" border="0" /></a>ts: Then, we headed back to the boat, stopping by Lee and Judy’s to invite them for sundowners. An offer they could not refuse.<br /><br />We concluded the day with the sundowner party, steak and the every-so-hard to find potatoes. We were serenaded by the Church bells every hour and it became a rhythm and comforting sound we welcomed. All Day One set a mark so high; I figured the rest of the trip might be downhill. Lopud was a beautiful, relaxing, a dream-come-true place.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dan Tri</span>: Lopud to <span style="font-weight: bold;">POLACE</span>, on the Island of Mljet </span><br /><br />Before we left the Island of Lopud, we witnessed a little of the real world in paradise---garbage disposal, island style. We watched people bringing refuge containment devices (trash cans) to the docks. They just lined them up and left. And before long, here came the garbage truck---again, island style. The truck is parked on a barge, traveling to each of the islands to gather their refuge. The barge docks, the men on the barge start dumping the contents of the refuge containment devices in the garbage truck. Not sure why fascinated me but, it may provide another reason why it took Capt’n Blabby so long to agree to the Reunion Voyage: S<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8dDuxnR2qEg/ThIoA6NtjfI/AAAAAAAAEX8/Tf9IZhnSlxY/s1600/IMG_4055.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8dDuxnR2qEg/ThIoA6NtjfI/AAAAAAAAEX8/Tf9IZhnSlxY/s200/IMG_4055.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625602880631049714" border="0" /></a>tick being fascinated by water fountains and refuge collection.<br /><br />So, now we are off to find the Island of Mljet. We motored most of the way making it an easy and enjoyable ride. Our goal was the town of Polace, located in a long inlet in the Island of Mljet. You can kinda see the approach in the photograph below: <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gVGE3uomkxQ/ThIoldHH9dI/AAAAAAAAEYE/NDSonppCi9k/s1600/IMG_4072.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gVGE3uomkxQ/ThIoldHH9dI/AAAAAAAAEYE/NDSonppCi9k/s200/IMG_4072.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625603508473951698" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Arriving in Polace, our able Cruise Director and Capt’n elected to dock at a restaurant. If you eat at the restaurant, docking is free. Seems like a good deal, you gotta eat. They choose the Calypso. Not sure why but, it may have to do with they had the most flags flying. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LJmOaPBqL9k/ThIpOPKE98I/AAAAAAAAEYM/xKeT92KL6OE/s1600/IMG_4107.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LJmOaPBqL9k/ThIpOPKE98I/AAAAAAAAEYM/xKeT92KL6OE/s200/IMG_4107.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625604209102878658" border="0" /></a> The Island of Mljet is home to Mljet National Park and two inland salt lakes. The lakes are fed by the sea through a natural canal and somehow qualify as lakes. Where the canal connects to the sea, is one of the few reefs in Croatia. We took a van up; yes we went up in altitude to these lakes, a real weird experience. And the ride was through pines and other trees and it felt like a national park in the Rocky Mountains of the US of A. Seems out of place and it was a sight to behold.<br /><br />Within one of the lakes we rode up to, is an island that houses a former Benedictine monastery built in the 12th century. We took a little skiff ride to Islet Marija in the middle of Lake Veliko Jezero. I am the cute on one the left in the photo below. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn2OMvsKwm3RpkKE34LBpGQCJH82v2jHeNg1sGwN8BU1yzgFAE-cDR-CWGY4U4grwRKzroGAI_iYs5oWT3YQN8g_dqJf43x7HlkrwIiIZ6aQwKMmLScDpGqzUpP-bac76DujphE9J7vhmL/s1600/IMG_4077.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn2OMvsKwm3RpkKE34LBpGQCJH82v2jHeNg1sGwN8BU1yzgFAE-cDR-CWGY4U4grwRKzroGAI_iYs5oWT3YQN8g_dqJf43x7HlkrwIiIZ6aQwKMmLScDpGqzUpP-bac76DujphE9J7vhmL/s200/IMG_4077.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625604883173106994" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B4iUMlkBzBM/ThIp2Bv-zhI/AAAAAAAAEYc/oQ2PwVIwd1Y/s1600/DSCN0093.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B4iUMlkBzBM/ThIp2Bv-zhI/AAAAAAAAEYc/oQ2PwVIwd1Y/s200/DSCN0093.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625604892698529298" border="0" /></a> The procedure on arrival to the islet is to hike the island, take a swim and then consume beer at the once former monastery, now beer dispensary.<br /><br />Along the hike we found some “modern day” art and of course Blabby and his female side-kicks had to be cute. The boy is always doing something to steal the show and put smiles on the ladies’ <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5SumDmpStVM/ThIqV3F6cYI/AAAAAAAAEYk/6gDzDSRGFTY/s1600/IMG_4098.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5SumDmpStVM/ThIqV3F6cYI/AAAAAAAAEYk/6gDzDSRGFTY/s200/IMG_4098.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625605439593542018" border="0" /></a>faces. The islet had several beautiful views. It seemed odd to be on an island within an island and here we were. I got a kick out of it. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ahkvkMklqvY/ThIqtxQXxFI/AAAAAAAAEYs/lIESffyb8y4/s1600/IMG_4086.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ahkvkMklqvY/ThIqtxQXxFI/AAAAAAAAEYs/lIESffyb8y4/s200/IMG_4086.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625605850343654482" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Along the trail around the island were several small chapels. Capt’n Blabby stopped at each one and prayed that this hike would end quickly. He had his focus on the beer dispensary. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7JW57u06Gu0/ThIrhdAKsPI/AAAAAAAAEY0/jJXzoONovxo/s1600/IMG_4087.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7JW57u06Gu0/ThIrhdAKsPI/AAAAAAAAEY0/jJXzoONovxo/s200/IMG_4087.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625606738260177138" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jtCmtCXTzQI/ThIrh6ikLII/AAAAAAAAEY8/cPNYc2l7MRg/s1600/DSCN0097.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jtCmtCXTzQI/ThIrh6ikLII/AAAAAAAAEY8/cPNYc2l7MRg/s200/DSCN0097.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625606746189081730" border="0" /></a>The ol’ Capt’n’s prayers were answered; we wondered and stumbled until the trail ended at the one and only beer dispensary on the Islet of Marija.<br /><br />After reviving his crew with liquid refreshment, Capt’n Blabby led his motley mob back to the town of Polace. Cruse Director J-J had spotted a sign reading “Homemade Wine” outside of a rock building in Polace just before our departure for the lakes. The Capt’n remembered the find and he was on a crusade to explore a tavern that advertised homemade wine.<br /><br />I have heard of homemade wine, even made a little but, never had I seen it advertised as a homemade wine. Somehow wine sparks an affluence that requires a sign with the term vineyard, not homemade wine. Anyway, my interest was sparked and I followed the able Capt’n. And the rewards of a successful crusade----sampling <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kc82FwFBvlY/ThItFLpqxjI/AAAAAAAAEZI/NSojYoKefIc/s1600/IMG_4102.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kc82FwFBvlY/ThItFLpqxjI/AAAAAAAAEZI/NSojYoKefIc/s200/IMG_4102.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625608451589326386" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TUpaFjk79z0/ThItFe-hzxI/AAAAAAAAEZQ/G9saynWHZnY/s1600/DSCN0098.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TUpaFjk79z0/ThItFe-hzxI/AAAAAAAAEZQ/G9saynWHZnY/s200/DSCN0098.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625608456777092882" border="0" /></a>homemade wine:<br /><br />After sampling the homemade wine and schnapps, we made a purchase. At this time “homemade” was the correct term. The tavern host, grabbed a liter glass bottle from the shelf. He proceeded to the vat in the photo above and filled the bottle with the nectar of the vine. He then pulled a cork from his pocket and pushed it in the top f the bottle, half in and half out. Easy to open that way, he said.<br /><br />With our prize in had, we strolled back towards the <span style="font-style: italic;">Lone Star</span> checking the sights along the way. DSCN0100 Any this little island had one more surprise sign: Aloha. Gotta love Croatia.<br /><br />They have a sense of humor.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-di88UQA2nns/ThIt7fmS6iI/AAAAAAAAEZk/LS5ZOAnu2vU/s1600/IMG_4104.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-di88UQA2nns/ThIt7fmS6iI/AAAAAAAAEZk/LS5ZOAnu2vU/s200/IMG_4104.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625609384656824866" border="0" /></a> Before boarding the boat, we stopped by to visit with the Calypso’s renowned chef and ordered the traditional “lamb cooked under a bell” for our evening meal.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aafswp0AQws/ThIt670aWUI/AAAAAAAAEZc/XfS72oRup34/s1600/DSCN0100.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aafswp0AQws/ThIt670aWUI/AAAAAAAAEZc/XfS72oRup34/s200/DSCN0100.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625609375052355906" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LMMll0-1TkA/ThIvISb1z-I/AAAAAAAAEZw/_mvrabBq1rE/s1600/IMG_4105.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LMMll0-1TkA/ThIvISb1z-I/AAAAAAAAEZw/_mvrabBq1rE/s200/IMG_4105.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625610703973240802" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQeV3twm5YA4zbQJRUfwbeuFYzh13_g6Zwfr-TXHj0HuNruVZKl8fRF5LMCcmsBH5_DPZVN5JBQP1xFBpkMYJppXPolQNtdVxOsEszbTO6Gl19JZnSiFN2YeYAcAUa1pvafjtokdSAj9Xg/s1600/IMG_4108.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQeV3twm5YA4zbQJRUfwbeuFYzh13_g6Zwfr-TXHj0HuNruVZKl8fRF5LMCcmsBH5_DPZVN5JBQP1xFBpkMYJppXPolQNtdVxOsEszbTO6Gl19JZnSiFN2YeYAcAUa1pvafjtokdSAj9Xg/s200/IMG_4108.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625610712175501154" border="0" /></a> The crew cleaned up for their evening meal at the Calypso. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EHxRdVqrIsE/ThIvqzCrNII/AAAAAAAAEaA/JYoEF3Zb-YQ/s1600/IMG_4114.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EHxRdVqrIsE/ThIvqzCrNII/AAAAAAAAEaA/JYoEF3Zb-YQ/s200/IMG_4114.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625611296841610370" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nuMjj5NCwlM/ThIvs44IA1I/AAAAAAAAEaI/PBD0Vq6dPuY/s1600/IMG_4115.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nuMjj5NCwlM/ThIvs44IA1I/AAAAAAAAEaI/PBD0Vq6dPuY/s200/IMG_4115.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625611332767712082" border="0" /></a>Time spent at the Calypso will earn a special place in the Voyages of Capt’n Blabby and Stick. This is where their new handles were acquired. Our waitress was a dark-haired Croatian girl that was the spitting image of Natasha of Boris and Natasha on the <span style="font-style: italic;">Rocky and Bullwinkle Cartoon Show</span>. And, not only did she look like Natasha, her voice and accent was Natasha of Bullwinkle fame. Unbelievable, here on this small island; crazy signs and a real life character out of a cartoon.<br /><br />Anyway, we had a great meal and as usual, Natasha, like all ladies, took to Capt’n Blabby. They talked on and on during the meal. I don’t think she wanted us to leave. We were finished eating and Natasha brought us licorice liquor as an after dinner drink---her gift to us. It was something really special to her. And I can only assume she drank it regularly and that is what gave her voice its raspy sound. That was some of the most varnish-tasting stuff to trespass my palate. We all sipped, pinching our noses and gagging but, we finished the darn stuff to be polite. Guess what? She brought us seconds---anything to keep her Blabby around and talking to her. Well, it was the kiss of death, we could not finish it so, and we high tailed it to the safety of <span style="font-style: italic;">Lone Star</span> and hid below deck.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dan Cetiri:</span> Polace to <span style="font-weight: bold;">KORCULA</span>, on the Island of Korcula</span><br /><br />The next morning, as the Capt’n and I stayed below deck and hidden from Natasha, our ladies went to town, found a bakery and delivered us pastries fit for a king. Gotta admit, the ol’ Capt’n and I like to be treated well by the ladies.<br /><br />Anyway, the time came, we had to get going. I stuck my head out of a hatch. And the coast seemed clear of Natasha. So, I took the contents of our refuge containment device and dumped them in the larger refuge containment devise at the Calypso. Well, low and behold, I was spotted by Natasha. She cornered me and questioned me about not drinking the second helping of licorice varnish. It was just like in the cartoons when Boris and Natasha are questioning their victim. Well, ol’ Stick, he did not crack under the pressure. He defended his fellow crew and stated they had already consumed there previously agreed to limit of alcohol and had they consumed the second grand and wonderful gift, they would have been severely punished by their captain.<br /><br />I am not sure she bought the story but, I added we had some gifts for her in our appreciation of her gifts. She had heard us playing Norah Jones music and she had commented on how she liked Norah Jones. Well, Stick in his usual wise manner offered her a Norah Jones CD. Natasha being well trained by Boris and Bullwinkle negotiated for the Norah Jones CD and an ABBA CD. Who was I to argue with a Natasha? So, I return to <span style="font-style: italic;">Lone Star</span>. I quickly procured the CD’s and delivered them to Natasha as evidenced by the photograph. The things I do to protect my fellow shipmates. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UXBlmZP3A4I/ThIxx3MGDqI/AAAAAAAAEak/-lNBTIg1hB8/s1600/DSCN0107.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UXBlmZP3A4I/ThIxx3MGDqI/AAAAAAAAEak/-lNBTIg1hB8/s200/DSCN0107.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625613617237200546" border="0" /></a> Anyway, after the peace offering is made, Natasha waves and christens our Capt’n as “Blabby” and as we depart the dock she orders Capt’n Blabby and Stick to “loves your womens”.<br /><br />Simply put, the acquiring of nick names and learning new phrases, well, that is a sign of a successful island visit. Of course, the “loves your womens” phrase has me in the dog house with my bride as she said ‘womens’ is plural. My argument is Natasha used poor grammar. My wife responds with, like Stick is one to judge another’s grammar. O’ well, life goes on. Onward to Korcula!<br /><br />The Capt’n and I gotta get outta this port.<br /><br />The voyage to Korcula was a day of sailing and motoring. Again beautiful sights and water the entire way. I never grow tired of the walled villages of Croatia. And thankfully, Korcula was another one of the walled towns. The harbor where we docket was to the left of this photograph. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r8bm1Wu5B0U/ThIyl8LaGyI/AAAAAAAAEaw/vjRZmA8Z5g4/s1600/IMG_4126.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r8bm1Wu5B0U/ThIyl8LaGyI/AAAAAAAAEaw/vjRZmA8Z5g4/s200/IMG_4126.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625614511929695010" border="0" /></a> Blabby and I took naps during the heat of this day. The ladies went to town and toured on their own. And during this tour they found three, yes count them, three bottles of Captain Morgan’s Spiced Run. So, my dear readers do not be tricked into bring the treasured spice rum thinking Blabby is not able to purchase any on these backwater islands. It is available. He is just working your sympathy. Bring the treasured rum because you are a good, kind person and giving a gift of love and appreciation and not out of compassion for a man unable to find his favorite nectar.<br /><br />I appreciated how this wall was long the shore line and a few feet above sea level. The other Walls we visited seem to be perched upon cliffs high above the sea requiring a long and hard stair climb. The city planned or developed properly and the wall was now a main walking street lined with cafes. One of which would serve our supper later that night. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8O11oBNczAU/ThIzKUqmeTI/AAAAAAAAEa4/cMZ9j7y81IY/s1600/IMG_4128.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8O11oBNczAU/ThIzKUqmeTI/AAAAAAAAEa4/cMZ9j7y81IY/s200/IMG_4128.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625615136978270514" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jNCTc9DkqSI/ThIzKw8cckI/AAAAAAAAEbA/MsZ9w9bH9sA/s1600/IMG_4132.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jNCTc9DkqSI/ThIzKw8cckI/AAAAAAAAEbA/MsZ9w9bH9sA/s200/IMG_4132.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625615144569303618" border="0" /></a><br /><br />And for some reason, maybe history I do not know, there is the Marco Polo Throne mounted on this walkway. Well, that was too much of a temptation for Capt’n Blabby. He immediately took command of the situation, seized possession of the Throne and parked his high and mighty Capt’n buttocks upon his newly claimed prize. Get command of a boat and claim the whole world. That’s the vision of our captain. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PUsCLslHGlg/ThIz1o7e3KI/AAAAAAAAEbI/iUaJ4vYJvyU/s1600/06102011297.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PUsCLslHGlg/ThIz1o7e3KI/AAAAAAAAEbI/iUaJ4vYJvyU/s200/06102011297.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625615881152158882" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Blabby and I spent much of the afternoon sleeping. Sailboat cruisin’ is a tough life for you uninitiated. When were not sleeping, we watch the sailing schools crash their boats into the dock trying to teach their young charges how to dock. Their docking was so poor, they had to pass up grog and go straight to the hard-stuff to celebrate any docking they did finally accomplish.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dan Pet:</span> Korcula to <span style="font-weight: bold;">SUCURAJ</span>, on the Island of Hvar </span><br /><br />We awoke this day to more pastries the ladies purchased in town. They found “hogs in a bedroll”. Similar to pigs in a blanket, only bigger. More like a hot dog and bun, and the bun is not sliced on the side. Well, the Blabby and I do like such food, and we do favor hot dogs, so we cue a slit in the bun. Now it was a hot dog. A squirt or two of mustard, we had breakfast dogs; the way every hardy sailor man should start his day.<br /><br />Again, this was a day of sailing and motoring. Motoring may have won with the most time propelling <span style="font-style: italic;">Lone Star</span>. The harbor into Sucuraj, it was a fun one. First, I still cannot get use to the green buoy being on the right when entering a harbor. Exactly opposite of Texas and Lake Somerville. And second, we had to dodge the ferry. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Q9-bxKIti0/ThI0kIn5G6I/AAAAAAAAEbU/11o6MaD1CW4/s1600/06112011302.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Q9-bxKIti0/ThI0kIn5G6I/AAAAAAAAEbU/11o6MaD1CW4/s200/06112011302.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625616679933909922" border="0" /></a> It seemed the only purpose of this town was to maintain a ferry landing. And the ferry felt the need to dock regularly, often and loudly.<br /><br />So, we dodged the ferry and put the green to our right and entered this marina sharing dock space with the ferry landing. The show here being the harbor master, a lady that could grab a monkey’s fist, tow a three inch line, wrap the clew and secure the boat to dock with one hand and two breaths of air. It was impressive. And if her physical talents were not enough to demand your attention and validate her command, her stature and voice did.<br /><br />Needless to say, Blabby and I followed her every command. We had had enough women problems in a prior port of call, we did not need to start a trend. Sucuraj seemed undeveloped and kinda lost but, it did have its picturesque side as a sleeping fishing village, invaded by a ferry boat. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ruClgiJzHIg/ThI1Q3gewWI/AAAAAAAAEbc/T7nGWIVHi8w/s1600/DSCN0147.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ruClgiJzHIg/ThI1Q3gewWI/AAAAAAAAEbc/T7nGWIVHi8w/s200/DSCN0147.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625617448433533282" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f7-DGc5LiEM/ThI1RJvevdI/AAAAAAAAEbk/cqu7PcoVnMo/s1600/DSCN0142.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f7-DGc5LiEM/ThI1RJvevdI/AAAAAAAAEbk/cqu7PcoVnMo/s200/DSCN0142.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625617453328285138" border="0" /></a><br /><br />One of Sucuraj’s own had recently completed his earthly walk and his funeral was being held the day we arrived. The scene was similar to the movies of funerals in the fishing villages in this part of the world. A very respectful gathering of friends and family gathering and walking through the town to the cemetery. All the shops and cafes closed for the funeral and then reopened afterwards. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jrNu2qaW5as/ThI1tgleWYI/AAAAAAAAEbs/-xqBsCCS6dE/s1600/DSCN0156.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jrNu2qaW5as/ThI1tgleWYI/AAAAAAAAEbs/-xqBsCCS6dE/s200/DSCN0156.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625617940496669058" border="0" /></a><br /><br />One piece of equipment we spotted on each of the island was the “semi-mule”. Not sure what it is really called. But, the roads and village cobblestone walkways are too narrow for semi-trucks. So, enter the semi-mule to haul and pull every type of wagon imaginable. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mbPiJCpY2ZM/ThI2cdHobAI/AAAAAAAAEb4/EQmJoWcyu6s/s1600/DSCN0155.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mbPiJCpY2ZM/ThI2cdHobAI/AAAAAAAAEb4/EQmJoWcyu6s/s200/DSCN0155.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625618747020045314" border="0" /></a> In Sucuraj, the Capt’n and I checked out the semi-mule. I can testify from first-hand knowledge, this thing is held together with bailing wire and prayers.<br /><br />One thing I enjoyed in each of the villages was the hourly bells of the churches. It was the same here. And there was the noisy ferry to make us appreciate the bells more. Thankfully, the ferry docked for the night at midnight.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dan Sest:</span> Sucuraj to <span style="font-weight: bold;">HVAR</span>, on the Island of Hvar</span><br /><br />We woke early and left dock just after 5:00 a.m. We need to arrive in Hvar early in the day. Dock space was first come first serve. And Hvar was popular as the combined Mote Carlo—Rivera of Croatia. So, off we headed just prior to sunrise: <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aZTpZo31ra0/ThI28kSY3AI/AAAAAAAAEcA/r1PNqiWmCL8/s1600/06122011304.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aZTpZo31ra0/ThI28kSY3AI/AAAAAAAAEcA/r1PNqiWmCL8/s200/06122011304.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625619298700024834" border="0" /></a> OK, Hvar lived up to its billing. The place was rocking and rolling—in more ways than one. The harbor water was full of wave action—a real washing machine effect. We thought the wave action was from all the boat traffic. We were told it was from the current.<br /><br />Anyway we docked along this main walk in town. We were in the center o<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-raYCaHNDF9U/ThI3ZsfmifI/AAAAAAAAEcI/oSZVqMgnmP8/s1600/DSCN0164.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-raYCaHNDF9U/ThI3ZsfmifI/AAAAAAAAEcI/oSZVqMgnmP8/s200/DSCN0164.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625619799119137266" border="0" /></a>f it all. Hvar like so many of the towns also claimed a fort or walled city perched high atop a hill overlooking the harbor. Well of course, we had to high up three, 208 stairs, and ½ mile of inclines, to reach the fort. And the views alone were wor<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XruubGbshOo/ThI4QViOLnI/AAAAAAAAEcU/k7_dqbX8b48/s1600/DSCN0198.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XruubGbshOo/ThI4QViOLnI/AAAAAAAAEcU/k7_dqbX8b48/s200/DSCN0198.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625620737848913522" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kLjg0aRO6R4/ThI4Q6LbjSI/AAAAAAAAEcc/Cef2ms3yb7w/s1600/DSCN0205.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kLjg0aRO6R4/ThI4Q6LbjSI/AAAAAAAAEcc/Cef2ms3yb7w/s200/DSCN0205.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625620747685432610" border="0" /></a>th it.<br /><br />We also made a tour of the town and enjoyed a great piazza: <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UT_dNoUFGac/ThI4yF7I9uI/AAAAAAAAEck/CSfVtf0agbE/s1600/DSCN0166.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UT_dNoUFGac/ThI4yF7I9uI/AAAAAAAAEck/CSfVtf0agbE/s200/DSCN0166.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625621317774014178" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-82wnutz9Xsw/ThI4ymxbWLI/AAAAAAAAEcs/tnzbNgweBYk/s1600/IMG_4224.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-82wnutz9Xsw/ThI4ymxbWLI/AAAAAAAAEcs/tnzbNgweBYk/s200/IMG_4224.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625621326591645874" border="0" /></a> <br /><br />The docking at Hvar was tight to say the least. Most of those docking knew what they were doing. Anyway, the close quarters and all the large boats added to the setting: <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAapqF4PV0U/ThI5QJIaJqI/AAAAAAAAEc0/7mmmHaAihWo/s1600/DSCN0183.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAapqF4PV0U/ThI5QJIaJqI/AAAAAAAAEc0/7mmmHaAihWo/s200/DSCN0183.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625621834031048354" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Then there are the Krauts. For some unknown reason, they were docked on our port side. They needed to lower a jet ski and thankfully Blabby and I were there to assist. We got the jet ski in the water without harm or damage to<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GlKJPBPe7RU/ThI6De9gn6I/AAAAAAAAEdA/iifABlCDarU/s1600/IMG_4214.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GlKJPBPe7RU/ThI6De9gn6I/AAAAAAAAEdA/iifABlCDarU/s200/IMG_4214.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625622716064243618" border="0" /></a> any one. And the jet ski story does not end. There is more to it. I had a little free time so, I went walking around to see the town. As fate would have it, the Krauts returned from their jet ski ride. They now want to lift the boat back on board. A big mistake! As they begin lifting, the jet ski slips and crashes to the water, just missing the <span style="font-style: italic;">Lone Star</span>.<br /><br />In our journeys through the cobble stone walks of Hvar we came across this sundial built on the side of a building. It too was on of those simple things that fascinate ol’ Stick. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TB7NO1iIyvw/ThI6sJTQ3BI/AAAAAAAAEdM/xsKqyykuNpg/s1600/IMG_4233.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TB7NO1iIyvw/ThI6sJTQ3BI/AAAAAAAAEdM/xsKqyykuNpg/s200/IMG_4233.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625623414624541714" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4r-tdkkVSls/ThI6s-fbTXI/AAAAAAAAEdU/R6cljGKonz8/s1600/DSCN0194.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4r-tdkkVSls/ThI6s-fbTXI/AAAAAAAAEdU/R6cljGKonz8/s200/DSCN0194.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625623428902636914" border="0" /></a> <br /><br />Being the big city and cultural town, Cruise Director J-J directed us to an evening meal at a romantic roof top restaurant. And once again, the crew cleans-up well:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBosKDf87XPKL2AZwPdMCZyZVU0uOln7q8VrF5Ld_aCVCNiHS3fbcIxyuMu99TcZFWLMvCCAtVqV_t-hoZexbvsCIIfZdxVjYptW206SC7wVkeANl5mJa91cxrJli225nL4Dg94ckv1ez/s1600/IMG_4243.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBosKDf87XPKL2AZwPdMCZyZVU0uOln7q8VrF5Ld_aCVCNiHS3fbcIxyuMu99TcZFWLMvCCAtVqV_t-hoZexbvsCIIfZdxVjYptW206SC7wVkeANl5mJa91cxrJli225nL4Dg94ckv1ez/s200/IMG_4243.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625624210383542866" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MZ5KAfkmpZQ/ThI7aFjV4GI/AAAAAAAAEdc/88Oemfngx7E/s1600/IMG_4245.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MZ5KAfkmpZQ/ThI7aFjV4GI/AAAAAAAAEdc/88Oemfngx7E/s200/IMG_4245.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625624203892220002" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu1zHtbI5eJmN4is2wp03q36dBozUrVRhy4kJpJI1rdnV15YLb1bjS1rqxR_JTcgyU9C8n0w6Esh8Doezph0OOTjWLBEf1Rgx2pa51UHm6Qrhm4mxoryPL_0pUdVZowUqbJ7zAHpDdINTb/s1600/IMG_4244.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu1zHtbI5eJmN4is2wp03q36dBozUrVRhy4kJpJI1rdnV15YLb1bjS1rqxR_JTcgyU9C8n0w6Esh8Doezph0OOTjWLBEf1Rgx2pa51UHm6Qrhm4mxoryPL_0pUdVZowUqbJ7zAHpDdINTb/s200/IMG_4244.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625624218039428802" border="0" /></a> <br /><br />After dinner we strolled to the Church in the photograph below for a folk song concert. This may have been Capt’n Blabby’s favorite event of the trip. I encourage each of you to not only invite but, take the good Capt’n to folk song concerts. The Capt’n was so moved by this event, he ha<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XnJZyA1tA68/ThI8pw25UMI/AAAAAAAAEd4/xZ795785TS0/s1600/06122011316.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XnJZyA1tA68/ThI8pw25UMI/AAAAAAAAEd4/xZ795785TS0/s200/06122011316.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625625572726624450" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1JpuCmiLDO8/ThI8qeR-lTI/AAAAAAAAEeA/wfhoq_7MQ3c/s1600/IMG_4247.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1JpuCmiLDO8/ThI8qeR-lTI/AAAAAAAAEeA/wfhoq_7MQ3c/s200/IMG_4247.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625625584919811378" border="0" /></a>d to take our picture. <br /><br />After the concert, a stroll along the harbor and a cone of gelato, we board the Lone Star for a night of good rest. But, our neighbors to port, the Krauts, they have other plans. The loud play of lousy music, accompanied by even louder voices above the “music”.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dan Sedam:</span> Hvar to <span style="font-weight: bold;">TROGIR</span>, on mainland Croatia<br /></span><br />We arose for the last day of sailing, to be greeted by J-J and Ms. P who once again headed to a bakery and fetched us the pastries fit for royalty and the awesome “hog in the blanket”. Thankfully our neighbors were passed-out asleep. We visited with a Croatian boat to our starboard and watched a religious procession for one of the Saints. A great day to begin our last day of sailing. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tZCN9qAJTF8/ThI9V1NWGaI/AAAAAAAAEeI/5M6tVMLdc9I/s1600/DSCN0202.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tZCN9qAJTF8/ThI9V1NWGaI/AAAAAAAAEeI/5M6tVMLdc9I/s200/DSCN0202.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625626329808771490" border="0" /></a> And this was our best day of sailing.<br /><br />The wind was 12 to 15 knots; we sailed along an island which allowed a smooth sail of 8.5 knots to Trogir. It was a perfect day of sailing. So, much so, I hogged the wheel. Well, I sat at the helm and looked cool as auto pilot actually steered. I guess ol’ Stick had become a modern day sailor man. We arrived in Trogir and guess what, there was another fort. Not as impressive as the others but, they did have a fort. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iOnOcdA_oeo/ThI9zsu9cbI/AAAAAAAAEeQ/q3iOPTpEz8A/s1600/06132011356.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iOnOcdA_oeo/ThI9zsu9cbI/AAAAAAAAEeQ/q3iOPTpEz8A/s200/06132011356.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625626842929918386" border="0" /></a> We docked at the marina, celebrated our last good docking the traditional way with one grog and the Capt’n finding faults in my seamanship and declaring more grog for the crew.<br /><br />Trogir also had a walk along the harbor. We strolled the walk and checked out the town with the reality that this was the last night of a great trip. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i7WnllCn6-k/ThI-c9QLg7I/AAAAAAAAEeY/4mqR3HXWqAM/s1600/IMG_4283.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i7WnllCn6-k/ThI-c9QLg7I/AAAAAAAAEeY/4mqR3HXWqAM/s200/IMG_4283.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625627551738856370" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oOASMeHNlrE/ThI-dWJnPyI/AAAAAAAAEeg/NhcvVUMPoZo/s1600/DSCN0227.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oOASMeHNlrE/ThI-dWJnPyI/AAAAAAAAEeg/NhcvVUMPoZo/s200/DSCN0227.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625627558422200098" border="0" /></a> This just about concludes our tour, we spent the night on <span style="font-style: italic;">Lone Star</span>, arose one again to our ladies bringing us fresh pastries and also J-J bringing three more bottles of the hard to find, Captain Morgan Rum. It is everywhere.<br /><br />I wrote little about sailing because as Capt’n Blabby says, cruising’ in 98 percent boredom and 2 percent terror. I am glad we did not experience the terror. And I can also say, we did not experience any boredom. It was excitement from beginning to end. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUZC5eJZhJpFc4wuC6tyjdbEnzl6fQrKCMFDTxpCaubQ-mfQMIppk50GD3WK8vLR5M6g82rneeHK-DkVGVArG28k6kEaWhhXsarPLsdfZPgwILDI-NmaSqeQAJzlGQnoXea48Jc1SHjja/s1600/IMG_4289.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUZC5eJZhJpFc4wuC6tyjdbEnzl6fQrKCMFDTxpCaubQ-mfQMIppk50GD3WK8vLR5M6g82rneeHK-DkVGVArG28k6kEaWhhXsarPLsdfZPgwILDI-NmaSqeQAJzlGQnoXea48Jc1SHjja/s320/IMG_4289.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625628704077275714" border="0" /></a> Ms. P and I had a great time. It exceeded our dreams, our expectations. Our friendship and Blabby and J-J’s graciousness made this a life time happy memory. Thanks! <br /><br />Respectfully submitted, <br /><br />Stick <br /><br />P.S. Vote Stick for Year Book Editor of the Lone Star. 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mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]-->Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-16598935588280769852011-06-30T05:42:00.000-07:002011-07-05T05:07:16.178-07:00If its June it Must be CroatiaFor the past month we have been cruising in a spectacularly beautiful country, Croatia. We knew very little about the country beyond the basic facts that it was part of Yugoslavia and in the early nineties some sort of war was fought over Croatia. What we have discovered is a country filled with fairy tale villages, gleaming seaside resorts, historical towns and stunning green mountains tumbling down to the crystal waters of the Adriatic. We had been told the Croatians were very reserved and not particularly friendly and that the food was ho-hum. Instead we found charming folks both young and old always ready to help, lend advice or share a story and food which is quite tasty. Croatia was part of former Yugoslavia which was formed after WWI. During WWII Croatia sided with the Nazis thinking that would gain her independence from Serbia. After the war Croatia was once again back in the Yugoslavia fold this time under the Communist rule of Tito. Once he died in 1980 things began to unravel and in 1991 Croatia declared independence. War broke out shortly afterwards with Serbia and continued until 1995. In a short amount of time Croatia has amazingly put itself back together and only a few signs of war damage remain. The Croatians have embraced democracy and capitalism with zeal. In fact a local told us “Croatia is the land of a 1,000 niks. You get niked (charged) for everything, everywhere.” Something we found to be true. We were fortunate to share our Croatian adventures with two sets of friends – Corkey and Pat Campbell and Jim and Barbara Brock. Jan and Corkey have known each other since they were 3 and 4 and coincidentally he was Craig’s roommate at A&M and best man in our wedding. Jim and Craig worked together in the past and both Jim and Barbara have crewed with us on Harvest Moon Regattas and Jim was crew when we took Seabbatical across the Gulf and in the Caribbean 1500 in 2006.<br /><br />Our Croatian adventure began with an overnight sail from Corfu, Greece. This was our first overnight sail of the season and 219nm sail proved to be uneventful. We left Corfu at 0825 and motored on glassy waters throughout the day and night until 0600 on 1 June when the winds picked to 17knts off our starboard quarter for a great sail the rest of the way. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vseXPnhBFlQ/Tg8VLIISHKI/AAAAAAAAEOA/sYtjcrSAzRs/s1600/IMG_3816.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vseXPnhBFlQ/Tg8VLIISHKI/AAAAAAAAEOA/sYtjcrSAzRs/s320/IMG_3816.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624737740514008226" border="0" /></a> We reached Gruz Harbor, the harbor for Dubrovnik, and tied off to the Customs quay at 10AM and cleared into Croatia. It was another case of going to doors number 1, 2 and 3 - passport control, harbor master and customs, all of which were very efficient. After the exchange of copious quantities of kunas (nik, nik) and our folder filled with various permits we were on our way again and by 1126 we were in a berth in Dubrovnik Marina a uniquely pretty marina built on the grounds of a renaissance palace. The next day we were off on the bus to old town of Dubrovnik which lives up to its nickname – The Pearl of the Adriatic. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HPltuwufYjM/Tg8VLygNrPI/AAAAAAAAEOQ/fu0R0h9gtB0/s1600/IMG_3874.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HPltuwufYjM/Tg8VLygNrPI/AAAAAAAAEOQ/fu0R0h9gtB0/s320/IMG_3874.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624737751888669938" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6BcKh7o_Q9E/Tg8VLpg8OzI/AAAAAAAAEOI/_jMjvjTAuyU/s1600/IMG_3863.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6BcKh7o_Q9E/Tg8VLpg8OzI/AAAAAAAAEOI/_jMjvjTAuyU/s320/IMG_3863.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624737749475801906" border="0" /></a> One look stroll down the Stradun, the main promenade, with her buildings of beige stone and terra cotta tile roofs convinced us that all our guests had to see this truly beautiful city.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zFpJAPL2UJ8/Tg8hxqfanjI/AAAAAAAAEQc/jpzPfYZWfdQ/s1600/IMG_3883.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zFpJAPL2UJ8/Tg8hxqfanjI/AAAAAAAAEQc/jpzPfYZWfdQ/s200/IMG_3883.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624751596712402482" border="0" /></a> With several days on our own before Corkey and Pat arrived we headed out of the marina on 3 June to the island of Lopud and dropped the hook for two nights in Sinj Bay. We had been told by the folks on Our Alabi that the beach bar in Sinj Bay had the best burgers in the world. Well of course we had to investigate but there was a problem. There are two beach bars in the bay both serving burgers. Hmm? Which one was the right one? We randomly picked one and yes the burgers were good, but were they the best?<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-opHDhlgiuiU/Tg8hx-n6yaI/AAAAAAAAEQk/Abp1_UiEwDM/s1600/IMG_3929.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-opHDhlgiuiU/Tg8hx-n6yaI/AAAAAAAAEQk/Abp1_UiEwDM/s200/IMG_3929.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624751602116774306" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qk6MQ-J4sOI/Tg8VMF2zmwI/AAAAAAAAEOY/L_QEL6ZJous/s1600/IMG_3920.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qk6MQ-J4sOI/Tg8VMF2zmwI/AAAAAAAAEOY/L_QEL6ZJous/s320/IMG_3920.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624737757083704066" border="0" /></a>Hopefully we would have a chance to try the other bar’s burgers for a true taste test. After two nights in Lopud we sailed to the next island and med moored on the town harbor wall of Sispanaka Luka. Sispanaka. That evening on the advice of Our Alibi we had dinner at Kod Marka. We were simply asked fish or meat (we chose both) and the rest of the decisions were in the hands of the owner and chef. What resulted was an excellent 3 course meal. Sleep can easy that night and the next day it was back to Dubrovnik Marina to await the arrival of our first guests.<br /><br />Corkey and Pat arrived on 8 June and after unpacking we were off to show them the old city. This time we took in the sights strolling along the town walls which offered excellent views of the old city on one side and the Adriatic on the other. Of course after such strenuous exercise we had to have dinner and gelato in town. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qq5wS5EhRiA/Tg8YKXAiZYI/AAAAAAAAEOk/WvCq_SEDpac/s1600/IMG_3979.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qq5wS5EhRiA/Tg8YKXAiZYI/AAAAAAAAEOk/WvCq_SEDpac/s320/IMG_3979.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624741025863067010" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EqTM53qZkg0/Tg8YKx_wlhI/AAAAAAAAEOs/Nof6AZ6RvdY/s1600/IMG_3987.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EqTM53qZkg0/Tg8YKx_wlhI/AAAAAAAAEOs/Nof6AZ6RvdY/s320/IMG_3987.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624741033107559954" border="0" /></a>The next morning we were off for a week of island hopping up the Dalmation Coast. Once again we stopped at Lopud. However due to winds we anchored out on the other side of the island off of Lopud Town and enjoyed a great steak dinner on board under the stars. From Lopud we headed for the island of Mljet and the national park located at the northern end. Besides the national park which is truly beautiful with anchorages, two inland lakes and ruins of monastery, Mljet claim to fame is that this is the island on which Calypso held Odysseus prisoner for seven years. We took a mooring at a restaurant appropriately named Calypso and spent the afternoon in the national park. That evening we enjoyed a traditional dish, Lamb under a Bell, at the restauran<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BaoegjiZhJM/Tg8ZJw7sQnI/AAAAAAAAEPA/eDJKFt8SXds/s1600/IMG_4086.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BaoegjiZhJM/Tg8ZJw7sQnI/AAAAAAAAEPA/eDJKFt8SXds/s200/IMG_4086.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624742115153822322" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gEx4peK9QRU/Tg8ZJcV1Q_I/AAAAAAAAEO4/QIn61KZTrho/s1600/IMG_4074.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gEx4peK9QRU/Tg8ZJcV1Q_I/AAAAAAAAEO4/QIn61KZTrho/s200/IMG_4074.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624742109626319858" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kb7xTJwRnc0/Tg8ZKYD4RMI/AAAAAAAAEPI/1m94S5Ez6qU/s1600/IMG_4111.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kb7xTJwRnc0/Tg8ZKYD4RMI/AAAAAAAAEPI/1m94S5Ez6qU/s200/IMG_4111.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624742125657146562" border="0" /></a>t. If you’ve ever been in scouts or were a scout leader you’re probably familiar with dutch oven cooking which is essentially the method used to cook the dish. Chunks of lamb, potatoes, onions and peppers are cooked in one pot over an outdoor kitchen fire. A great meal was had by all as we listened to the tunes of Nora Jones playing from Lone Star which was just across from our table.<br /><br />We made three more memorable stops that week, Korcula, Hvar and Trogir. Korcula Town on Korcula Island is another medieval walled city. Though not as big as Dubrovnik, it is every bit as charming and is the home of Marco Polo. Korcula has a very laid back feel which is just the opposite of Hvar Town on Hvar Island.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uhZolT2qYHY/Tg8au6ZrgpI/AAAAAAAAEPc/d1NxVOE72Fk/s1600/IMG_4221.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uhZolT2qYHY/Tg8au6ZrgpI/AAAAAAAAEPc/d1NxVOE72Fk/s200/IMG_4221.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624743852862309010" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eohD_ugsOr0/Tg8auSo4ITI/AAAAAAAAEPU/IRnIETBDtOw/s1600/IMG_4137.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eohD_ugsOr0/Tg8auSo4ITI/AAAAAAAAEPU/IRnIETBDtOw/s200/IMG_4137.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624743842188632370" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zcolW8Gt8MM/Tg8avGPfMxI/AAAAAAAAEPk/yjQb1vILtNo/s1600/IMG_4253.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zcolW8Gt8MM/Tg8avGPfMxI/AAAAAAAAEPk/yjQb1vILtNo/s200/IMG_4253.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624743856040784658" border="0" /></a> Hvar is considered one world’s top 10 most beautiful islands and the town is full of jet setting activity. Originally settled in 4th century BC by the Greeks, Hvar has been occupied by Slavs, Venetians and now tourists. While the town is beautiful, the harbor is a nightmare. Even in perfect wind conditions it is rolley and crowded. But if conditions are right and your early enough to find a place along the wall it’s worth the roll and noise. We lucked out and were able to be right in the center of action. Surrounded by 40m plus yachts on either side, we spent our time people watching, taking in a concert of traditional Dalmation music and hiking the the fort high above the town. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xI-XMxmj8kg/Tg8ka0k9AkI/AAAAAAAAERA/AVWcKG42P-c/s1600/IMG_4077.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xI-XMxmj8kg/Tg8ka0k9AkI/AAAAAAAAERA/AVWcKG42P-c/s200/IMG_4077.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624754502817874498" border="0" /></a>Our final sail took us to the town of Trogir, a tiny medieval town completely surrounded by water. Trogir has a scenic harbor promenade and is full of twisty, turny streets and alleyways. We enjoyed a final farewell dinner and the next morning Corkey and Pat were off to Rome and more adventures.<br /><br />On our own for two days we sailed to the Split, a large bustling cosmopolitan city compared to Trogir, and home to the Diocletian’s Palace. The palace was the retirement home of Emperor Diocletian, one of the few emperors who actually made it to retirement. Diocletian’s claim to fame was coming up with the clever idea of feeding Christians to the lions. We spent the afternoon exploring the remains of the palace and the following morning preferring the sourroundings of Trogir, we split from Split and headed back to Trogir for Jim and Barbara’s arrival.<br /><br />We were lucky to find space on the harbor wall the first evening<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dYq1msQvu8k/Tg8caO79UXI/AAAAAAAAEPw/K8PSMCz0Lv0/s1600/IMG_4344.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dYq1msQvu8k/Tg8caO79UXI/AAAAAAAAEPw/K8PSMCz0Lv0/s200/IMG_4344.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624745696620794226" border="0" /></a> but had to move off the second night due to a large flotilla of small Croatian cruise ships that were arriving. We dropped anchor in the harbor and were soon joined by Jim and Barbara. Not long after their arrival we were visited by the harbor master who “niked” us for just anchoring out. Oh well, it was worth seeing Trogir again and sharing it with our friends. The next morning we were underway and our first stop was Hvar Town. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-42P_PUDD6Lo/Tg8ca8Sl4GI/AAAAAAAAEQA/kbp_vOBmtNo/s1600/IMG_4387.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-42P_PUDD6Lo/Tg8ca8Sl4GI/AAAAAAAAEQA/kbp_vOBmtNo/s200/IMG_4387.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624745708795322466" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5ohNhnEDk_Q/Tg8cafIN7eI/AAAAAAAAEP4/pk7wMF3YkN8/s1600/IMG_4377.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5ohNhnEDk_Q/Tg8cafIN7eI/AAAAAAAAEP4/pk7wMF3YkN8/s200/IMG_4377.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624745700967181794" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUrJwiGTeNruNmmGEUXS_FcCIEdeHsxvoIsIytcmM3w0p50p02Gahd4LMbLW1UMccTyWTeAi1Bp2_6eIUgxHR7dKTWN__zK7HvX4PN7lqGC-OOfkKJKmi77-j7NEjj4F0fwfEJ9ckBSI6g/s1600/IMG_4391.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUrJwiGTeNruNmmGEUXS_FcCIEdeHsxvoIsIytcmM3w0p50p02Gahd4LMbLW1UMccTyWTeAi1Bp2_6eIUgxHR7dKTWN__zK7HvX4PN7lqGC-OOfkKJKmi77-j7NEjj4F0fwfEJ9ckBSI6g/s200/IMG_4391.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624745724903509634" border="0" /></a>However this time the wind conditions were averse to mooring in the harbor. In fact the harbor was closed anchoring and all sailboats because of the conditions. Instead we took a berth at the Palmizana Marina on Pakleni Island, across from Hvar Town. We took the water taxi across the canal once again enjoyed the beautiful town. Dinner was at a Rick Steve’s recommended restaurant, Konoba Menego, located on a steep back street. We put ourselves into the hands of the owner, Dinko, and the result was several typical Croatian dishes and locally produced wines. The biggest adventure of the evening occurred as we headed back on the water taxi, by now 11PM. All of a sudden an alarm was going off and the driver was instantly shutting down the engine and on his cell phone – the water pump had blown up. His female companion told us “Don’t worry, he has 125 numbers he can call.” So there we were, the four of us, the driver and his companion rocking and rolling in a small broken down boat in the middle of the night. Sure enough about 10 minutes later we see the lights of an approaching boat, another taxi, on its way to rescue us. We were expecting a tow, but no instead the four of us were transferred to the rescue taxi and at the last minute the “companion” jumped on as well leaving her boyfriend to wait for his rescue on his own. What true love! The next day we cruised along the west coast of Hvar stopping off at Scedro Island for lunch and a swim. Well at least three of us swam – briefly. The water was freezing and Barbara probably showed the most intelligence of the group and elected not to get in.<br /><br />The evening was spent at anchor in Loviste Bay on the Peljesac Penninsula.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HaJigMcpTMc/ThL8T_GYLLI/AAAAAAAAEiA/v3B1p4njWS0/s1600/IMG_4404.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HaJigMcpTMc/ThL8T_GYLLI/AAAAAAAAEiA/v3B1p4njWS0/s200/IMG_4404.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625836304825068722" border="0" /></a> Grilling out under the stars completed another perfect day in Croatia. Our last day at sea included a lunch break and shopping for local wine in Polace, Mjlet. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6cXQHQNsjKs/ThL9PmqTMeI/AAAAAAAAEiI/eUtbFVKrI7Y/s1600/IMG_4407.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6cXQHQNsjKs/ThL9PmqTMeI/AAAAAAAAEiI/eUtbFVKrI7Y/s200/IMG_4407.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625837329057001954" border="0" /></a> Then it was on to Sipanaka Luka on Sipan where we took a mooring ball in front of Kod Marka Restaurant. Barbara and Jim are definite “Foodies” and we knew they would enjoy this dining experience. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o9oyCcI-HPQ/Tg8cbWdV6fI/AAAAAAAAEQI/MjSlUx6gHj0/s1600/IMG_4389.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o9oyCcI-HPQ/Tg8cbWdV6fI/AAAAAAAAEQI/MjSlUx6gHj0/s200/IMG_4389.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624745715819735538" border="0" /></a>We all choose fish and first out was marinated anchovies and rocket salad with fresh smoked tuna. This was followed by octopus balls (similar to crab cakes) and seafood risotto. The finale was fresh grilled sea bass and amberjack. All was accompanied by carafes of the local white wine. Yum! Yum! If you’re beginning to think a main if not the main event in cruisers’ lives is eating local you would be correct! It was great ambience with the town and Lone Star in the background. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XakyOS7mntQ/ThL-RMdVR_I/AAAAAAAAEiY/M8Y_nnwBHnQ/s1600/IMG_4429.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XakyOS7mntQ/ThL-RMdVR_I/AAAAAAAAEiY/M8Y_nnwBHnQ/s200/IMG_4429.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625838455894657010" border="0" /></a>The next day we sailed back to Dubrovnik Marina and were off one more time to the Old Town. Jim and Barbara got to experience the walk on the walls and we enjoyed one final last excellent meal in the Old Town. Too soon it was the next morning and they were on their way back to the States and home to hot, hot Texas.<br /><br />The boat was very quiet after all our guests left. We had another week left on our cruising permit and planned to sail north to some places we had not yet seen. However, Mother Nature had another plan in store. Greece has the meltemi winds and Croatia has the infamous Bora. These are northeast winds which blow often at gale force 30-45knts and even up to hurricane force. We had not yet had the pleasure of experiencing the Bora but our luck ran out. For five days nonstop the Bora blew making any headway north extremely uncomfortable if not close to impossible. We did manage to leave the marina and once again anchor in Sinj Bay, Lopud before the winds set in. We spent three nights at anchor waiting out the winds. Now this did give us the chance to try the other beach bar burger. Verdict, also good perhaps better than the first, but Bill’s in Black Cat Junction outside of Kingwood still reigns as the best burger ever! After three nights on the hook and going a little stir crazy we did manage to make it back to Dubrovnik Marina and take a berth – just before they closed the marina for incoming boats due to high winds. After two more days the Bora finally blew itself out and we left for Cavtat a harbor town just south of Dubrovnik. This is a happening little town with a lively harbor walk, plenty of restaurants and once again the picturesque architecture of Croatia. We anchored on the town wall and spent the afternoon exploring the waterfront and walking around the bay. Before evening set in we were visited by Antonio, the harbor master, looking for his “nik”. He was accompanied the by the electric and water guy who was also looking for his “nik” which turned out to be the cost of half our monthly electric bill back home. Needless to say we chose not to take electricity. Our final bit of business in Croatia proved that sometimes things can be a little screwy. Wanting to save time the next morning we went to Harbor Police hoping to check out the night before.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8SNwhAWjLeQ/Tg8jvjDXngI/AAAAAAAAEQ4/Z0OZ3swzGq8/s1600/IMG_4529.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8SNwhAWjLeQ/Tg8jvjDXngI/AAAAAAAAEQ4/Z0OZ3swzGq8/s200/IMG_4529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624753759379234306" border="0" /></a> Not only were we told no we would have to wait till the morning (which ok we could understand that), we would have to move our boat to the Customs Dock before we could check out. The Customs Dock was exactly 30meters away but no, even though they could see our boat it wasn’t good enough. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z82iIWlfTw4/Tg8i8qr2seI/AAAAAAAAEQw/rqp1bVmF2iw/s1600/IMG_4529.JPG"><br /></a>So the next morning we pulled up the anchor, waited in line in the harbor for one hour and reanchored on the Customs Dock only 3 boats away from our original berth. Officials – you just got to love ‘um!<br /><br />Looking back on our time in Croatia, it is time well spent and enjoyed and not enough time in this beautiful country at all. Our travels here were enhanced by the knowledge of two cruising couples – Katherine and Craig Briggs on Sangaris who passed on several brochures and insider tips and tricks on Croatia and Ann and Gerry May on Our Alibi whose treasure trove of information guided us the whole month. Gerry you should be a travel writer! Croatia we will miss you!Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-64271335773675062722011-05-30T11:41:00.000-07:002011-05-30T11:44:31.237-07:00Checking out of GreeceMonday, 24 May, a historic day for Lone Star and her intrepid owners. In between sightseeing on Corfu, preparations have been underway for our first overnight sail. The dingy outboard was tucked away in the lazarette. The dingy was hoisted and secured on board. Jack lines were run on deck and safety check lists reviewed. All was done and now the day of reckoning was upon us. Time to check out of Greece. For those of you who know us or have followed us on our blog, you might remember our initiation to the Schengen Law in 2009 on the island of Simi. Since that time we have carried in reserve a special “kitty” just in case on this day of days the Greek authorities decided it was time to pay up. So off we went to clear out. First stop – Port Police to have the final stamp in our Transit Log. Second Stop – Customs which collects the Transit Log. Third Stop (and most critical) Passport Control to have our passports officially stamped as leaving Greece. Did we leave this last stop with our pockets considerably emptier or did we arrive back at the boat ready to pop the cork and celebrate. A picture can tell it all.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVYoqm-LOyhoTv6LEazSaTwqJ3OqcyeXuvVoGTyZjBPdtM3FhcnvPkMD30Jx1DIIUe4tdWUv4dtFBZ4_dXhgzGE0sgmsbnIOo57Wq7e4zdgXOVRFVuYjf_2S0Py0vsKpPKgI6TbiHthpX/s1600/IMG_3807.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVYoqm-LOyhoTv6LEazSaTwqJ3OqcyeXuvVoGTyZjBPdtM3FhcnvPkMD30Jx1DIIUe4tdWUv4dtFBZ4_dXhgzGE0sgmsbnIOo57Wq7e4zdgXOVRFVuYjf_2S0Py0vsKpPKgI6TbiHthpX/s320/IMG_3807.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612581583823131106" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">ON TO CROATIA!</span><br /></div>Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-43869741673265801502011-05-27T10:38:00.000-07:002011-05-30T11:40:50.013-07:00Sailing the IonianTuesday 24 May we entered the Ionian Sea where we made stops at three different islands, Ithaca, Lefkadas and Corfu, during the next week. Our first impression was how different these islands were from the Cyclades in the Aegean. Gone are the craggy, dry, windswept islands with the picturesque blue and white architecture you see in all the travel brochures and guide books. Instead the Ionian Islands are very green and fertile and the architecture appears to be a mix of both Venetian and French with a good bit of English culture thrown in – especially on Corfu. The islands closely hug the western mainland of Greece and the winds are not as strong as in the Aegean. The islands are close together with plenty of anchorages and harbors to choose from. It reminded us of sailing in the BVI.<br /><br />Our first stop was in Vathi, Ithaca. We med moored in the harbor which when we came in had only a few boats but by evening there must have been close to 30 sailboats in the harbor with plenty of space for more. A special treat occurred the next morning. As a large ketch was pulling up anchor and leaving one of the folks on board was at the bow serenading the harbor on bagpipes. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OcXCF50ujho/TePYzrWvz2I/AAAAAAAAEKI/QUx1n3qx33E/s1600/IMG_3637.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OcXCF50ujho/TePYzrWvz2I/AAAAAAAAEKI/QUx1n3qx33E/s200/IMG_3637.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612567942956830562" border="0" /></a>After Ithaca we sailed on to Lefkadas. Our destination was Vilkho Bay.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AIpQvBqlAgI/TePkj8Ws6jI/AAAAAAAAELk/b7kgVscKcgc/s1600/IMG_3640.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AIpQvBqlAgI/TePkj8Ws6jI/AAAAAAAAELk/b7kgVscKcgc/s200/IMG_3640.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612580866781669938" border="0" /></a> Before approaching the turn into the bay we sailed past two unassuming islands, Skorpios and Skorpidhi. These unassuming islands are the very famous private islands of Aristotle Onassis. Boats can anchor off the islands, in fact one of the favored anchorages is off a small cove Jackie O preferred. However you can not venture ashore. As we came into Vilkho Bay we understood while several cruisers recommended it to us. Vilkho Bay has earned the nickname “Velcro Bay” – cruisers arrive and decide to just “stick” around. One look and you can see why - beautiful green waters with hills all around and a few tavernas on shore to in which to while away the hours. We found ourselves doing just that at the Yacht Club where we had the chance to chat up the Irish owner over a frosty cold one.<br /><br />Before you get into Vilkho Bay you pass by the town of Nidri a very popular tourist spot with lots of action. But by the time you move into Vilkho the noise dies away and it is truly and tranquil spot. We only “stuck” around for one night and then motored up the Lefkadas channel to Lefkadas Town and med moored on the town quay for two nights. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RV6i4fjDJHc/TePZphrDDxI/AAAAAAAAEKU/Wr45n2Bl8ls/s1600/IMG_3693.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RV6i4fjDJHc/TePZphrDDxI/AAAAAAAAEKU/Wr45n2Bl8ls/s200/IMG_3693.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612568868070559506" border="0" /></a>The channel separates the island from the mainland and on either sides of the channel are salt marshes. Lefkadas Town has an active water front and just behind it another one of those wonderful pedestrian streets with cafes and shops.<br /><br />After our 2 night stay we sailed, ok mostly motored, 60nm to Corfu and took a slip at Gouvia Marina just north of the town of Corfu. With 1,200 slips, several cafes, swimming pool, and even croquet lawns and cricket pitches, not only was it one of the largest marinas we’ve ever been in, it also felt more like England than Greece! With the marina office soon closing we quickly hiked to the office to check in. While in the office who should come in – Maurice from Esperanza. Our paths had crossed once again. He invited us over for a drink that evening and we enjoyed catching up with Terry and Dr. Bob. They had also just arrived today. It was great to see them again and we think we’re destined to see them again at some point in Croatia. We filled up our time with exploring the old town of Corfu.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQxQo2c0-Rra-eYw3XEfRCIvsf1_YElgelJ9l7LHLLsEf-T3PBWOYTh-d28g7NjH-XTzpEEIZOA5dPUrmk8qtVHZkWrxaHUjMq2Pf8ASpznjoAIDeTZT8cMGoTIlpIb0V-SrY3DELwNzq/s1600/IMG_3730.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQxQo2c0-Rra-eYw3XEfRCIvsf1_YElgelJ9l7LHLLsEf-T3PBWOYTh-d28g7NjH-XTzpEEIZOA5dPUrmk8qtVHZkWrxaHUjMq2Pf8ASpznjoAIDeTZT8cMGoTIlpIb0V-SrY3DELwNzq/s200/IMG_3730.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612574667593262930" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wsyeb7c50BA/TePe7sRWh9I/AAAAAAAAELQ/x3pAuaiuO6I/s1600/IMG_3743.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wsyeb7c50BA/TePe7sRWh9I/AAAAAAAAELQ/x3pAuaiuO6I/s200/IMG_3743.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612574677711357906" border="0" /></a> The old town is flanked by two Venetian Forts and in between are streets filled with shops, cafes, and museums. You had the feeling you were in Florence or Paris instead of Greece. We also rented a car for a day to explore the island. Corfu is lush and green with beautiful flowers in amazing colors everywhere. Olive and cypress trees dot the mountain sides and each harbor town has its own personality.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KcKrq0CwmmQ/TePfcL91FVI/AAAAAAAAELY/wTG3X6F1lVo/s1600/IMG_3774.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KcKrq0CwmmQ/TePfcL91FVI/AAAAAAAAELY/wTG3X6F1lVo/s200/IMG_3774.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612575235975222610" border="0" /></a> One thing that is common among the towns – tourism. Corfu is a tourist island and all the towns have souvenir shop after souvenir shop. It’s apparent the island caters to the British as most of the signage is in English with many of the restaurants advertising “Full English Breakfast”. One advantage of this is we were able to find a British Hair Dresser to cut our hair. For once communicating how we wanted it cut was a breeze. Even with all the tourism Corfu is a beautiful place and one we will remember fondly.Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-88728208607484356902011-05-24T10:12:00.000-07:002011-05-30T10:37:58.632-07:00Familiar PlacesOn Friday 20 May, with a newly fixed fresh water pump and a visit to the Acropolis checked off the list, we left Zea Marina in Piraeus and continued our journey west. Now we were in familiar waters and retracing our 2009 path. Once again we transited the Corinth Canal this time heading west. As we transited with three cargo ships and 2 other sail boats it was just as thrilling as the first time.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pHKYvYYihWI/TePTsd5c93I/AAAAAAAAEJU/ygKdiwvJ1Js/s1600/IMG_3526.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pHKYvYYihWI/TePTsd5c93I/AAAAAAAAEJU/ygKdiwvJ1Js/s200/IMG_3526.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612562321527076722" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_xU445qhi2E/TePTsOkzPdI/AAAAAAAAEJM/t0pBEBDkL4k/s1600/IMG_3525.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_xU445qhi2E/TePTsOkzPdI/AAAAAAAAEJM/t0pBEBDkL4k/s200/IMG_3525.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612562317413924306" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DC_CHNCkSJg/TePTs8SW-EI/AAAAAAAAEJc/xZdihSN3K_Q/s1600/IMG_3538.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DC_CHNCkSJg/TePTs8SW-EI/AAAAAAAAEJc/xZdihSN3K_Q/s200/IMG_3538.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612562329684604994" border="0" /></a> A bonus feature this time was the addition of bungee jumping from one of the bridges. As the last of the boats passed they were in full operation with screams echoing off the canal walls. As we were transiting we also heard Esperanza calling the Canal Tower so we knew they were not far behind us. Once thru the canal we headed for the north side of Corinth Bay and by 1800 we were anchored in Vathi Bay, sundowners in hand and steaks sizzling on the grill. We were glad our 60nm day was over.<br /><br />The next day we left Vathi Bay which we had renamed Jelly Fish Bay because of the dozens of strange looking jelly fish that were floating in the water. Translucent socks with red eyes, they surrounded the boat anxiously anticipating some unsuspecting sailor to dive in!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T-vOdu4y4Fs/TePUrGvNc2I/AAAAAAAAEJo/cQuvwnBQxvU/s1600/IMG_3544.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T-vOdu4y4Fs/TePUrGvNc2I/AAAAAAAAEJo/cQuvwnBQxvU/s200/IMG_3544.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612563397641859938" border="0" /></a> That afternoon we pulled into one of our favorite harbors in Greece – Galaxidhi. It was just as charming as we remembered and we decided to stay for two days instead of just overnight. Galaxidhi is an excellent place to leave the boat while visiting the ruins of Delphi which is what we did in 2009. This time we decided to spend our extra day hiking in the surrounding countryside. That first afternoon as we were finishing a late lunch at one of the harbor side tavernas who should pull in beside us – Esperanza, our paths crossing once again. We chatted them up and they had also decided to stay for two days with plans of taking in Delphi the next. As we were finishing dinner the second evening in another quaint taverna Dr Bob, John and Brad came in and we joined them for an after dinner drink. As the evening continued at it was becoming apparent the men were starting to solve the world’s problems Jan left them to their own devices and smartly went back to the boat. Sometime later Craig made his way back to the boat sure that all problems had been solved and quite possibly new ones created!<br /><br />In Galaxidhi we captured an amazing picture of Lone Star in the harbor. If you look closely at the mountains in the background – there’s still snow on the peaks! No wonder we’re not swimming yet. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hVVw2MczAXU/TePVjwa0bAI/AAAAAAAAEJ0/9ABMfrT3bQQ/s1600/IMG_3579.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hVVw2MczAXU/TePVjwa0bAI/AAAAAAAAEJ0/9ABMfrT3bQQ/s200/IMG_3579.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612564370903297026" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mm64w5jvfM4/TePVkKw1ZDI/AAAAAAAAEJ8/wtKCY2UMPnY/s1600/IMG_3590.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mm64w5jvfM4/TePVkKw1ZDI/AAAAAAAAEJ8/wtKCY2UMPnY/s200/IMG_3590.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612564377974957106" border="0" /></a>The next day, Monday 24 May, we retraced our route thru Corinth Gulf, under the Rion Bridge with Esperanza to our starboard and into the Gulf of Patras. We had a great downwind sail and at 1627 pulled into another familiar place – Messolonghi Marina. We returned not because the setting was idyllic nor the town quaint and the marina outstanding. We returned because it was in the right place, at the end of a 53nm sail, and out of curiosity. When we stopped in 2009 the marina, a Dutch/Greek partnership, was just a work in progress with great plans for the future. At that time there was one new dock, several old ones none with power, water, electricity or lazy lines. One building was complete and it was serving as the office with plans to eventually be a café/bar. But there was no charge.<br /><br />Fast forward to 2011. Several new docks with facilities were now present. A two story office was now complete as well as bathrooms. The original café/bar building was there but still not open and instead of free the cost was 40 euros. Work continues, slowly, as is the Greek way and the plans are ambitious. We wish them well. There seems to be close knit group of cruisers who wintered at the marina. In fact we met Katherine and Craig Briggs, Seven Seas Commodores, who had wintered their boat Sangaris, an Amel Santorin, in the marina. Katherine and Craig have been sailing Sangaris for 12 years and have sailed as far as the Galapagos and had just finished two years in Croatia. They were preparing Sangaris for the voyage east thru Greece and on to Turkey. We enjoyed a visit on board their boat and later that evening Esperanza and Sangaris joined us on board Lone Star for sundowners, appetizers and the trading of sailing adventures and information sharing. Such is the life of cruisers. The next day as we sailed into the Ionian we said our goodbyes over the VHF to Esperanza as we were off to different islands.Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-68832439979332717652011-05-19T12:00:00.000-07:002011-05-27T12:50:53.091-07:00The Peloponnisos and Diversion Number TwoFriday the 13th turned out to bring good luck, not bad. We had a bow thruster that worked perfectly and with favorable winds we weighed anchor at 0900 and pointed Lone Star west toward the Peloponnisos Peninsula. We had an overnight stop on the island of Kythnos which is just the opposite of cosmopolitan Emoupolis on Syros – tiny, dusty and quiet but with a quaint charm. After a brief overnight stay we continued on, anxious to get to our destination – the Peloponnese Island of Hydra just off the mainland coast. With a relaxing sail, of course assisted at times with the motor, we found ourselves at the entrance to Hydra harbor.<br /><br />With its close proximity to Athens Hydra is an extremely popular tourist destination. No cars are allowed on the island – transportation is on foot or by donkey. We had heard the harbor can be very crowded but we ventured in and very quickly left. Boats were rafted up two and three deep taking up almost the entire harbor with barely enough room to turn around. No way! We elected to sail further down the island and anchor out for the night. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbmdJ7XusF_3TqHqr8Ngcfcwx8tLQPaC-pp06m3pn_SkQJcutYgNQPvUlfe0c-iQ7cTM4ty5zPHOMofT25I247HrIRI5LkxkXWxS6QHSGQTPD5w06DoP29Wf-Mrn9bE6fuR2sT1oASCPw/s1600/IMG_3390.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbmdJ7XusF_3TqHqr8Ngcfcwx8tLQPaC-pp06m3pn_SkQJcutYgNQPvUlfe0c-iQ7cTM4ty5zPHOMofT25I247HrIRI5LkxkXWxS6QHSGQTPD5w06DoP29Wf-Mrn9bE6fuR2sT1oASCPw/s200/IMG_3390.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611480289510512338" border="0" /></a>Plans were to return the next morning and wait outside the harbor entrance for boats to leave and then come in for the day. Well as so often happens in cruising, what you plan for is not what happens. While at anchorage Jan noticed the fresh water pump was staying on longer than usual. As afternoon turned into early evening it became obvious that the pump was working harder and longer. An inspection confirmed that we had a rapidly developing problem. The pump was getting ready to fail and no matter how much water you have in your tanks – no pump, no water.<br /><br />Bottles were quickly filled with reserve water. We have amply spares on Lone Star but one thing we did not have was a fresh water pump maintenance kit. We made the decision that we would only see Hydra Town from a distance and that we needed to get to a location that Amel could quickly and easily ship the necessary kit to. From where we were that was Athens. Diversion two under way. We had not planned on stopping in Athens but now it was obvious we would need to. Since it was Sunday and the Amel offices were closed we decided to first continue to our originally planned stop after Hydra, the island of Poros. The earliest anything would happen would be Monday with hopefully and overnight shipment to Athens. Poros is also a popular tourist destination and home to the Greek Maritime Academy.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hEMArBvFGhk/Td_6qNfnSOI/AAAAAAAADz8/pBXIvmFhHIs/s1600/IMG_3420.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hEMArBvFGhk/Td_6qNfnSOI/AAAAAAAADz8/pBXIvmFhHIs/s200/IMG_3420.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611479263810636002" border="0" /></a> We arrived at 1310 and med moored along the town quay. The first thing we noticed were dozens if not 100’s of young cadets in uniform on the quay and in the restaurants with family, friends and girlfriends. We don’t know if it was a special family weekend or just your average Sunday on Poros when school is in session but it made for enjoyable people watching.<br />We felt we had a good plan with the water pump had enough water in reserve to take care of our needs if it failed completely. Even with the issue unresolved we enjoyed our time on Poros. Lunches local tavernas, walks and hikes around the island. Monday morning the Amel After Sales Department, which is outstanding, received our emergency email and quickly put together the parts we needed for an overnight delivery. We made arrangements for the package to be sent to Zea Marina and with confirmed reservations all we had to worry about, other than the pump failing, was the package arriving. We arrived at Zea Marina 1313 Tuesday afternoon and as we were greeted by the mariner who would escort us to our slip he welcomed us with music to our ears, “We have your reservation and your package is waiting for you in the office”. Good music indeed!<br /><br />We ended up spending 3 nights at the marina. It turns out the problem was because the retaining piece that keeps the seal in place had broken and the spring it was supposed to be holding back was causing the key to the impeller to slip in and out. It was a wonder the pump worked at all. Craig successfully replaced the broken parts and we now have a spare maintenance kit on board. Since he was on a roll Craig also replaced the raw water pump for the AC units. The original one had developed a leak and Amel had sent a replacement, but Craig just got around to replacing it. While that was going on Jan spent time adding to the boat provisions. We also enjoyed a change of pace – a Chinese Dinner out and Kentucky Fried Chicken on board. Yep the Colonel is in Athens right across the street from the marina.<br /><br />Diversion Two turned out positive for more than just a successful repair. We spent our final day at the marina by taking the train to Athens and had the chance to see the Acropolis. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sgFkb5pJIJs/Td_6qjgS_UI/AAAAAAAAD0E/aEvppAX6lwk/s1600/IMG_3488.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sgFkb5pJIJs/Td_6qjgS_UI/AAAAAAAAD0E/aEvppAX6lwk/s200/IMG_3488.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611479269719080258" border="0" /></a>We also had the good fortune to be tied up next to Esperanza in the marina and to become acquainted with the owners, guest and crew. Maurice Raynor, a fine English gentleman, was on board awaiting the arrival of his American wife Terry and friend “Doctor Bob” from California. Also on board were Scottish Captain John Tunn and Mate Brad from South Africa. A regular United Nations on board that boat! We enjoyed sharing information and as it turned out our itineraries were similar. Perhaps we will see them again as our journey continues.Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-37137799800008186512011-05-13T11:47:00.000-07:002011-05-27T12:20:41.757-07:00Bow Thruster Woes and the Island of SirosWe said our goodbyes to Nita and Stacey as they headed off to the Athens ferry.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We then made preparations to leave Paroikia Harbor and head west for the island of Serifos.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Plans were to reach mainland Greece and the Peloponnesus Peninsula within a few days.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Instruments on – check; Nobeltec up and running – check; engine on – check; bow thruster down – check; bow thruster working – “Jan we might have a problem” – no check.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>At first check the bow thruster worked only in one direction.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>A second try it worked but suspiciously.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We continued to lift the anchor which came up clean and as we made our way out of the cramped harbor the bow thruster quit working all together.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Once we were clear of the harbor and out in the bay Craig started trouble shooting the problem.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>At first we thought the emergency breaker may have tripped but that was not the case.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Further testing and replacing the fuse proved unsuccessful.<br /><br />Craig determined the problem had to be with the solenoid.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>At this point we went over our options and decided Serifos was not a good choice for us.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The pilot book indicated very limited if any boat services and the island did not have daily ferry service to Athens in case we needed to have something shipped to us.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WHcR2Dzk438/Td_5KX7iIyI/AAAAAAAADzg/LUIgKrjW_Ao/s1600/IMG_3334.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WHcR2Dzk438/Td_5KX7iIyI/AAAAAAAADzg/LUIgKrjW_Ao/s200/IMG_3334.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611477617344652066" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo0DwojbqrQ2c6aS0d_42yFKe-pgAVDAc58fY5mxxfloXrX71PBv1TldJheczA8Gvhtu8FVfOqxzYp9m-HOqqKIgvJ-EvrCQGbxfl9dJi2Nib_OWZV66Ag_jG9e16FaYKKHpGwdakSYoNT/s1600/IMG_3331.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo0DwojbqrQ2c6aS0d_42yFKe-pgAVDAc58fY5mxxfloXrX71PBv1TldJheczA8Gvhtu8FVfOqxzYp9m-HOqqKIgvJ-EvrCQGbxfl9dJi2Nib_OWZV66Ag_jG9e16FaYKKHpGwdakSYoNT/s200/IMG_3331.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611477607138032658" border="0" /></a>However 28nm due north was the island of Syros, the<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>“capital” of the Cyclades, with numerous boat yards, chandleries and daily ferry service to Athens.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It was time for a diversion.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It was a 4 hour uncomfortable sail with winds and waves on the beam, increasing and clocking to directly on the nose. During the ride we discussed docking possibilities.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Without a bow thruster our mobility would be limited.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Lone Star has a rudder that is hung on a skeg and does not back well at all without assistance from the thruster.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>A med mooring would be next to impossible.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Instead, we needed tie up alongside.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Of course as we entered the Ermoupolis harbor the winds were increasing with gusts in the low 20’s.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The town harbor was out of question so we headed across the bay to “Marina Sirou”.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The pilot book stated the basic marina structure was complete.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>That is barely correct.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There are pontoons.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But as the case is in so many Greek marinas, work has stopped and nothing else is complete.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There were a number of boats tied off to the pontoons, but we did manage to find one spot we thought we could maneuver into.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>With the winds working against us and the bow thruster not working at all, it took three men on shore helping with the lines but we managed to get Lone Star secured to the dock.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>By the time all was said and done the winds were approaching 30 knots blowing us on to the dock; we had every fender and ball out and were double tied on all points.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Now the real work started – figuring out how to get the bow thruster repaired.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Turns out that Side Power, the bow thruster manufacturer, had an office in Athens.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The receptionist/manager turned out to be a life saver.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Turns out Side Power has an electrician on Syros they recommend.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Several calls to the electrician resulted in no answer.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The next morning we made contact however the gentleman spoke no English and our Greek amounts to hello and thank you.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Side Power in Athens took over and within a few hours we had a call from someone who did speak English and set up the appointment for that afternoon. The electrician (still no English) arrived at the appointed time and after inspection called the Athens office which acted as interpreter and informed us it was the solenoid.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The Athens office said they would have a new part shipped via the morning fast ferry the next day.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The next morning at 10:30 the electrician was back and after much gesturing we realized the part was in and he wanted Craig to go with him to pick up the part so we could pay for it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Off they went to who knows where but they were back in ½ hour and within a couple of hours we were hearing the beautiful sounds of a perfectly working bow thruster!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><br /><br />The meltimi was still screaming into the bay so we stayed put that day and the next morning decided to motor over to the town harbor and med moor since we had been stuck out in the boon docks for 3 days.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MzwNzjwvu5I/Td_5Kw986dI/AAAAAAAADzo/KstwaGB_7Ck/s1600/IMG_3341.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MzwNzjwvu5I/Td_5Kw986dI/AAAAAAAADzo/KstwaGB_7Ck/s200/IMG_3341.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611477624065681874" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wiwgyoXm0gI/Td_5LLP86lI/AAAAAAAADzw/zAC8HHPZWSk/s1600/IMG_3344.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wiwgyoXm0gI/Td_5LLP86lI/AAAAAAAADzw/zAC8HHPZWSk/s200/IMG_3344.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611477631120501330" border="0" /></a>We were glad we did. Emoupolis feels like the capital of the Cyclades and is its largest town. It has an active harbor front and just behind the harbor is a wonderful pedestrian shopping area with marble lined streets, cafes and parks.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There are many 18<sup>th</sup> century ship owner mansions, classical buildings and an enormous church on top a hill.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It’s definitely a different feeling from the small island villages.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But, all in all, it was a great last day and a wonderful end a trying time on an island.Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-89217193695731943282011-05-12T07:03:00.000-07:002011-07-02T07:46:21.877-07:00Don't feel sorry for them... ... ... ... It is the life they have chosenBut first, our trip began on April 27, when we boarded the first leg of our flight to Newark, and from there boarded another flight to Athens.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We had the great fortune of flying first class both going and coming back home (a result of saving my Continental miles since I was probably about 5 years old……oh wait, there was no Continental back then.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Now I’m really aging myself).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Don’t think it took Stacey quite as long.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I just knew I would be saving them for the trip of a lifetime.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Dare I mention, this trip also coincided with mine and Stacey’s first anniversary?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Guess there’s nothing left to do but go to Disneyworld for our second.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Ok, back to the trip.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We spent 4 days in Athens where we were in a great hotel downtown with a view of the Temple of Zeus from our room.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And we could easily see The Acropolis and Parthenon from our hotel’s rooftop, which was also a restaurant/bar.<br /><br />We hired our driver that picked us up from the airport to take us our first full day to the Corinth Canal, Mycean ruins, and a town that is supposedly known as the ancient capital of Greece before Athens.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Can’t remember or spell the name.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>All I know is it was beautiful.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We had a great late lunch at one of the harbor cafes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We wanted fish, so they bring you inside and start opening drawers of different fresh fish so you can make your selection.<span style=""> </span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S3f9NHWxkis/Tg8rne-4QgI/AAAAAAAAERg/MERRAnEn6bU/s1600/Greece%2BMay%2B2011%2B133.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S3f9NHWxkis/Tg8rne-4QgI/AAAAAAAAERg/MERRAnEn6bU/s200/Greece%2BMay%2B2011%2B133.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624762416940728834" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The Greek salads are amazing as are the Greek wines.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Go figure.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I don’t think we ordered a meal, except maybe breakfast, that didn’t include the famous Greek salad and yes, wine.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Well, you have to set your limits somewhere.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The next day was our visit to the Acropolis/Parthenon.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Absolutely thought I was going to die on the walk up.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Only stopped to rest one time though and once there, the view was incredible.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You could see all of Athens, the mountains and the beautiful Aegean Sea, just like on the postcards.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We decided to forego the Acropolis Museum.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>After spending the previous day looking at lots of ruins and statues with no heads, seeing it all again kinda lost its “wow” factor.<br /><br />Alas, I think my favorite part of Athens was the quaint and winding streets (called the Plaka area) filled with sidewalk cafes and lots of shopping.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We spent one entire day just shopping, stopping at a café for tapas and wine, trying as many Greek foods and wines as we could and so on.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There’s even an area much like a flea market that’s just open on Sundays where you can buy just about anything.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We found a really cool antique looking, brass nautical compass that had Capt. Craig’s and first mate Jan’s name on it.<span style=""> </span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_netJ_3CDoE/Tg8roXrsMWI/AAAAAAAAER4/-diAfa5EZfc/s1600/Greece%2BMay%2B2011%2B371.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_netJ_3CDoE/Tg8roXrsMWI/AAAAAAAAER4/-diAfa5EZfc/s200/Greece%2BMay%2B2011%2B371.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624762432161067362" border="0" /></a>We made sure to get a picture of him acting like he knew how to use it.<br /><br />In celebration of our anniversary I wanted to get a waffle at one of the cafes we had seen the previous day.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We walked around looking for the perfect souvenir and anniversary present that spoke Greece to me.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>After much looking, I settled on a beautiful Greek Key ring (the Greek Key means long life) that my dear sweet husband bought for me.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He’s the best.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"><br /><br />Monday morning and time to go meet Jan and Craig. We boarded a high speed ferry that took us to Naxos.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Let me say that I have quite a tendency to motion sickness, so Jan had encouraged me to be sure to put on one of those patches that you wear behind your ear that keep you from getting sick.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Well, for me anyway, the motion sickness would have been better than the side effects it gave me.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It made my throat so dry I couldn’t find enough water to drink, which still didn’t help and it made me dizzy (no comment, those of you who know me well) and somewhat nauseated.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So, they told me to take it off and in a couple of hours I was all better.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>No more patches for me.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>As we made our way off the ferry, we saw two very familiar smiling faces there to welcome us to the Greek Isles and the island of Naxos, known for their potatoes.<br /><br />Our hosts’ couldn’t have made us feel more welcome and what can I say about “Lone Star”, in a word, gorgeous.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-83q83yDsFbE/Tg8rn7ThL9I/AAAAAAAAERo/JJTjHfCJkAw/s1600/Greece%2BMay%2B2011%2B300.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-83q83yDsFbE/Tg8rn7ThL9I/AAAAAAAAERo/JJTjHfCJkAw/s200/Greece%2BMay%2B2011%2B300.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624762424543490002" border="0" /></a>Now that’s what I call a toy boat. The rest of the island experience is pretty well documented in Jan and Craig’s blog of our visit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I think the highlight was being given the opportunity to take the wheel for quite a while on our sail from Naxos to Paros.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Craig and Jan are great teachers and although I was a little tentative initially, I really began to get the hang of it and felt quite comfortable. All in all, we loved the Greek wine, delighted in many tastes of the delicious food and saw sights that will never be forgotten.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vuiog6BBk-w/Tg8roJIZe1I/AAAAAAAAERw/Bv-iy3BHWd0/s1600/Greece%2BMay%2B2011%2B335.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vuiog6BBk-w/Tg8roJIZe1I/AAAAAAAAERw/Bv-iy3BHWd0/s200/Greece%2BMay%2B2011%2B335.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624762428254944082" border="0" /></a> We leave behind two very special friends, but take with us precious memories not possible except for them and their gracious hospitality.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Thank you dear friends.<br /><br />Fair winds y’all; we’ll see ya in the fall.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"><br /></span>Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-22888187281192885292011-05-09T11:19:00.000-07:002011-05-27T11:46:48.187-07:00Hotel Lone StarOn May 2 we welcomed our first guests Nita and Stacey Horne from Kingwood on board. They arrived by high speed ferry from Athens and after lunch on board and unpacking we were off to explore the Kastro (old Venitian castle) of Naxos. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn8ymZ2C62Wk17s1ECLu-PhziAa7GxgBiIUCQ0sAeqKzNmQd7Yv1gffQ9C1ZXeCZOWn4BTTr4RcWF_bCtGvrgYnzVgeBUnWe6dj5-nsBgjyc3IIJO7gdSdI38e4E1izZ6c_JOOeBMaJR9R/s1600/IMG_3034.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn8ymZ2C62Wk17s1ECLu-PhziAa7GxgBiIUCQ0sAeqKzNmQd7Yv1gffQ9C1ZXeCZOWn4BTTr4RcWF_bCtGvrgYnzVgeBUnWe6dj5-nsBgjyc3IIJO7gdSdI38e4E1izZ6c_JOOeBMaJR9R/s200/IMG_3034.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611463584745809922" border="0" /></a> Being the intrepid explorers that we are we kept looking for the castle and an entrance only to finally be told by a shopkeeper that we were actually already within the castle walls. Oh well, with that accomplished it was back down to the harbor in search of the perfect taverna for an afternoon <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0i6qGn6udbg/Td_s10Rph5I/AAAAAAAADx4/RvG3rZJi88w/s1600/IMG_3041.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0i6qGn6udbg/Td_s10Rph5I/AAAAAAAADx4/RvG3rZJi88w/s200/IMG_3041.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611464070036817810" border="0" /></a>thirst quencher. The next morning we picked up a rental car and headed off to explore the island. With Craig’s expert driving, Nita’s front seat navigation pointing out that the street we were on was now ending in a flight of stairs and Stacey and Jan handling the back seat map deciphering we had a successful day with only a few mishaps, turnarounds and backups. Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades chain and Mt. Zeus at 1004m is the highest peak. Naxos is more fertile that the other Cyclades and is famous for its potatoes, olives, grapes and figs. The inland is dotted with several marble quarries, beautiful vistas and numerous picturesque mountain villages. We stopped at Halki, in the heart of the island and followed the delicious smells to the village square and Yianni’s Taverna where we enjoyed a lunch of Greek salad, grilled meats and pitchers of Rose Wine. After lunch we toured the Vallindras Distillery which produces the local liqueur, Kitron, the old fashioned way. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d3R_bvGgnFY/Td_tpQrxvGI/AAAAAAAADyA/G1tQFZF0Jjg/s1600/IMG_3092.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d3R_bvGgnFY/Td_tpQrxvGI/AAAAAAAADyA/G1tQFZF0Jjg/s200/IMG_3092.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611464953835928674" border="0" /></a> Kitron is made from the citron which apparently is barely edible in the raw state but quite tasty as a liqueur.<br />We were then on our way back down from the mountains via the coast with a stop to dip our toes in the Aegean, still way to cold to get any deeper. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-53Kn8EwF0vE/Td_uf-5vljI/AAAAAAAADyM/K4lmQkEPLb8/s1600/IMG_3102.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-53Kn8EwF0vE/Td_uf-5vljI/AAAAAAAADyM/K4lmQkEPLb8/s200/IMG_3102.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611465893955474994" border="0" /></a>That evening back on board Lone Star we celebrated Nita and Stacey’s 1st anniversary with cake and champagne. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y0xfrTTPGok/Td_ugT4dvMI/AAAAAAAADyU/gGe_uduJ1jE/s1600/IMG_3116.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y0xfrTTPGok/Td_ugT4dvMI/AAAAAAAADyU/gGe_uduJ1jE/s200/IMG_3116.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611465899587255490" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k9_ZpL5iESM/Td_wYgkrFbI/AAAAAAAADyg/4pQmx10_dyI/s1600/IMG_3118.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k9_ZpL5iESM/Td_wYgkrFbI/AAAAAAAADyg/4pQmx10_dyI/s200/IMG_3118.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611467964578207154" border="0" /></a>We also had a visit by Nickoli, the harbor master, who shared tales of the sea with us. Nickoli and Craig had really bonded during our 5 days on Naxos. The next day we left Naxos and headed out in the Aegean for a two hour sail to Paros. Nita and Stacey both had the chance to man the helm and before long we were anchored off a small beach christened Craig’s beach close to the town of Naousa for an evening on the hook and under the stars.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bnru044bgdQ/Td_wZGCztsI/AAAAAAAADyo/vAo81KWQg1E/s1600/IMG_3125.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bnru044bgdQ/Td_wZGCztsI/AAAAAAAADyo/vAo81KWQg1E/s200/IMG_3125.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611467974636713666" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bE0SqOLzv1k/Td_wZm6DpKI/AAAAAAAADyw/1BxhqWfLyxg/s1600/IMG_3167.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bE0SqOLzv1k/Td_wZm6DpKI/AAAAAAAADyw/1BxhqWfLyxg/s200/IMG_3167.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611467983458378914" border="0" /></a> The following morning after Stacey, an avid fisherman, inventoried the on board gear, the guys were off in the dingy for some fishing while the ladies hung out on board. After the guys arrived back empty handed, after all this is the Med,<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDx1tEJ4Dgt0hyvAlQyBl-AMtQMJsNEmy_DTbbVGqj9ATiO2S-VL0_DIxQXx8EFw78vf8KDXI_hCUlCCNjjj6nmxyZsILeF_qh7rlaPQyk9sEaZj3Wb_BfbTnvgHd6VzrwSte6zDgKENZ5/s1600/IMG_3179.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDx1tEJ4Dgt0hyvAlQyBl-AMtQMJsNEmy_DTbbVGqj9ATiO2S-VL0_DIxQXx8EFw78vf8KDXI_hCUlCCNjjj6nmxyZsILeF_qh7rlaPQyk9sEaZj3Wb_BfbTnvgHd6VzrwSte6zDgKENZ5/s200/IMG_3179.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611467992646083650" border="0" /></a> we pulled up anchor and sailed around the corner to the main town Paroikia and took the last spot in the inner harbor which was a good thing because the weather forecast was predicting the arrival of meltimi winds the next day. The meltimi winds blow predominately from the northeast with winds up to gale force levels in the central Aegean, which is where we were, but usually do not start until late June which it wasn’t. In 2009 when we waited out the meltimi on Paros and it looked like that was going to happen again. But Paros is one of our favorite islands and not a bad place to be stranded. By the next day the winds were blowing constantly at 30 knots and boats were heading into the harbor for safety and rafting up.<br />Because of the weather and ferry schedule this was Nita and Stacey’s last island before heading back to Athens. We found plenty to occupy the time with – exploring the twisty, turning village roads, shopping, eating good food and drinking yummy Greek wine. The highlight was touring the Pangia Ekatondapyliani, a church dating from 326 AD. Stacey had been telling us the entire time on board that, regardless of the cold waters, one of his goals was to go swimming in the Aegean. And on the last day, with the meltimi finally gone, he finally made good on his promise. It was a great week with Nita and Stacey. We were able to show them how hard cruising is – sailing, anchoring under the stars, visiting beautiful islands. At least they didn’t have to experience any boat repairs. Monday morning we said our goodbyes as they left the boat for the ferry back to Athens and we pulled up anchor to head for Serifos. A great week!Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-28218378968813033152011-05-03T06:48:00.000-07:002011-05-27T11:59:49.857-07:00Tex Mex in the Greek Islands!Can this be true? When reading Lonely Planet's section on Naxos we found out their favorite restaurant was Picasso which they claimed served excellent fajitas and margaritas. Well as any Texan will tell you, a week without Tex Mex is a week without sunshine. Being true Texans we had to put the restaurant to our rigorous standards. We had two opportunities in 2009 while crossing the Med to try so called Tex Mex Restaurants and both came up very short so our expectations were not high.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g-Pn9aWv634/Td_zIayfUJI/AAAAAAAADzE/NF55haz_JxA/s1600/IMG_3020.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g-Pn9aWv634/Td_zIayfUJI/AAAAAAAADzE/NF55haz_JxA/s200/IMG_3020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611470986682519698" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zhyPvI7kCSE/Td_zIsZAa2I/AAAAAAAADzM/3VI2HTumGq8/s1600/IMG_3022.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zhyPvI7kCSE/Td_zIsZAa2I/AAAAAAAADzM/3VI2HTumGq8/s200/IMG_3022.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611470991407475554" border="0" /></a> We found our way to Picasso's for dinner and first up were the margaritas, chips and salsa. Excellent! Then on to the beef fajitas with all the trimmings. Excellent!! Picasso's can hold it's own to any Mexican restaurant back home. Surly the owner must be from or had lived in Texas. Turns out our table was next to the owners, Debbie and Stratos. We had a nice conversation and learned that Debbie was actually from Canada and Stratos was Greek. They met in Canada and moved to Naxos to enjoy the "idyllic" Greek island lifestyle. They opened the restaurant back in 96, hired a chef trained in Santa Fe and have been serving great food ever since. So if you're in the neighborhood and are missing Tex Mex....Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-90398101291844805862011-05-02T00:28:00.000-07:002011-05-02T02:25:08.544-07:00Naxos<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oe8VJnAaFdg/Tb5eRIqrh3I/AAAAAAAADp0/fGAZNGv4xKE/s1600/IMG_3016.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oe8VJnAaFdg/Tb5eRIqrh3I/AAAAAAAADp0/fGAZNGv4xKE/s200/IMG_3016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602018634972759922" border="0" /></a>We found a great end spot in the harbor at Naxos and have cleaned up the boat in anticipation of the arrival of Nita and Stacey Horn, our first guests of the season. We are having a difficult time, however, with how expensive it is to keep our boat at the dock in the harbor. Nicholi, the dock master, said he had to charge us 3 euros a day ($4.35) for electricity and that seemed reasonable. We then asked what the charge would be for for the boat. He shrugged his shoulders and said the boat is free. We think free is good so are planning to stay 6 days before moving on.Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-32883535250860382352011-04-27T11:37:00.000-07:002011-04-27T11:51:20.562-07:00Kos GreeceArrived in Kos April 25th and spent most of the afternoon clearing in. Checking in required going to doors number 1,2,3, and 4.<br />1. A visit on the boat by port police to fill out a crew list and have it stamped, followed by a 15 minute walk to the ferry terminal where<br />2. Passport Control stamped our passports<br />3. Customs filled out and issued a transit log (30 Euros) followed by a walk around the harbor to<br />4. Port Authority who stamped our our Transit Log and charged us 15 euro for entering from a non EU country.<br /><br />We are now spending our third night in Kos because of high (25 to 30 knot) winds. The forecast is for less wind tomorrow and we hope to be heading for NaxosCraig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95016048077556751.post-61306258415592930782011-04-25T11:41:00.000-07:002011-04-29T10:34:43.479-07:00BodrumWe spent our last night in Turkey in Bodrum. Had a delightful meal in a restaurant on the waterfront and cleared out of Turkey on the morning of 25 April. We will miss Turkey. We have had a wonderful time there the last two years.Craig and Janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00156975589214678668noreply@blogger.com