Yes, it’s true, from yesterday I qualify for my state pension and an old person bus pass. The pension had only been pushed back by 6 months but I know close contemporaries who received their bus pass at 60. I am lucky as there is a bus stop outside my house with a bus that... Continue Reading →

Simuni turned out to be our favourite destination to date when taking all aspects into account and unlike some of the other marinas, the water was crystal clear – the locals were even swimming in the harbour. We had intended to head for Zadar which is a picturesque town with the marina in the heart... Continue Reading →

When I refer to ‘Bora’ it is not a reference to the quality of Bob’s conversation but it is a strong wind off the mountains. We had a promising start to our passage from Punat on Otok (Island in Croatian) Krk with the prospect of sufficient wind to sail but once we reached the open... Continue Reading →

Despite a forecast of little wind, we were heartened as we left Cres as there was a reasonable blow from a favourable direction. So it was up with all sail and engine off – for five minutes before it died - how disappointing but we left the main sail up in the vain hope that... Continue Reading →

It seems that in our unhurried holiday sailing mode, daily passages of no more than 40 miles are acceptable so long as they end up plugged into a marina for shore power to run the AC. Bob, given his affluence and 71 years, sort of expects this luxury and how can I deny him. The... Continue Reading →

Rovinj looked very peaceful and unspoilt as we approached and took a space inside the harbour breakwater. We understood that we had to complete certain formalities upon our arrival in Croatia but apart from the need to purchase a Cruising Permit we were not sure what else was required or how to carry out the... Continue Reading →

Venice and the lagoon is a heady mix of contrasts and surprises – it is totally unique and it’s impossible not to be enthralled. Maelstrom would be the right word for the crazy waterway to the Airport where the water taxis seemingly race, disregarding all collision regulations and certainly the niceties of etiquette as they... Continue Reading →

It is quite amazing that after a mere couple of hours of sleep, the human body can be so restored and refreshed! After a week of sub one hundred step counts, I was keen to get out for an exploratory walk. The perception of Venice is of a maze of charismatic alleys and canals (Remember... Continue Reading →

The forecast southerly breeze of 6 knots turned out to be a southerly wind of over 20 knots with big breaking seas. This was actually quite welcome as we were able to make great pace and improve on our intended arrival time so that we had time in hand to be able to take it... Continue Reading →

The weather continues to bless us with clear skies and since the wind has diminished, the sea has become reasonably flat as well. Reviewing our course options after the next headland, the prospect of taking a longer inshore route had its issues with lots of ‘stuff’ just offshore so I favour the direct route taking... Continue Reading →