The Saronic Islands are so named as many of them are located within the Saronic Gulf of the Aegean Sea. As this is the closest island chain to Athens, it is easy to be away from mainland life and into island life quickly when embarking from Athens. And a number of islands can be seen before returning to Athens, as they are all in close proximity, including good harbors located on the Peloponnesian Peninsula.

Following is an itinerary for this island chain including the great harbors along the Peloponnesian Peninsula.

SARONIC AND ARGOLIC GULF - GREECE
Athens - Athens

ATHENS - POROS - 31 Miles: called Kalavria in ancient times, Poros was the island of Poseidon, god of the sea. The town of Poros is actually an island separated by a small canal from the rest of the main island. In ancient times it was two islands, Spheria and Kalavria, which was gradually joined by an isthmus of sand. Kalavria, the larger island was wooded and had lots of water. Spheria, which is now Poros town, was a volcano. The approach by sea is probably one of the most beautiful in Greece.

Upon arriving, start your day by visiting the Archaeological Museum in the port of Poros. Then, take a walk as far as the clock tower, the town's highest point and the island's "trademark".


Poros

POROS - HYDRA 14 Miles: Hydra is perhaps the most beautiful port village in all of Greece. A tiny harbor ringed with cafes, restaurants and gold shops, it is surrounded by a village of stone houses and villas that rise up the hills like an amphitheatre. One of the best things about Hydra is that there are no cars. Everything is transferred and moved by donkey, including groceries, building supplies, people and their luggage. There is a foreign press shop on the waterfront where you can get your International Herald Tribune, USA Today, The Athens News and papers from just about any country. The Monastery of the Panagia is right in the port, with its entrance by the clock tower.


Hydra Transportation

HYDRA - SPETSES 17 Miles: Unforgettable scenes of natural beauty are created by the harmonic combination of crystal clear waters and ageing pine trees. Countless picturesque coves, around the island of Spetses, offer visitors moments of peace and tranquility. Either by land or sea various forms of transportation make every part of the island fully accessible.

One should not miss visiting the Museum of Spetses, situated at the mansion of Hadziyiannis Mexis (one of the wealthiest leading activists of that era), the main mansion of heroine Laskarina Bouboulina, now a private museum and the historical monastery of St. Nicholas, where on April 3, 1821, the locals took the oath "Freedom Or Death" and joined the revolution. Visit 'Patrali' near the waterfront in Kounoupitsa for fish dishes. 'Exedra Taverna' on the old harbor front is great for fresh fish and Greek specialties.


Spetses

SPETSES - TOLO - NAFPLION - 27 Miles: is an old fishing village, situated on the picturesque Bay of Argolis spread out along a lovely beach. Fighters from Crete who, after being persecuted by the Turks, came as refugees to the land of Argolis and settled in this area founded it in 1831. In its sparkling sea you'll be able to enjoy swimming, fishing and every kind of water sport. Tolo offers a great variety of taverns, bouzouki clubs, cafes and other family-run businesses that offer the homey hospitality that has come to characterize the place.

NAFPLION: The city beach, Arvanithia, is located just on the other side of town where Nafplion was founded 4000 years ago. You can enjoy swimming and water sports like canoeing, windsurfing, paragliding, jet skiing and more. There is an interesting bar on the beach, the 'Enalion', where you can enjoy Greek appetizers with a glass of ouzo, and try 'Ouzo Karoni' which has been bottled in Nafplio since 1869, by the same family, using the same recipe. Of particular interest is the shop, which makes handmade bouzouki and other stringed instruments. If you are in the market for a baglama, guitar, bouzouki or even a hand-made flute, then this is where the pros go.

NAFPLION - PORTO HELI 26 Miles: is picturesque because of its fascinating beaches, unique because of its secure port, bright because of its 350 days of sunshine, unforgettable because of its wonderful sunset, and inexhaustible because of its innumerable cultural activities.

The modern name of 'Porto Heli' - also known as 'Porto Cheli' - translates to 'The Bay of Eels', which was the mainstay of the fishing industry here some years ago. The fishermen here continue to go about their business and farming is the other main industry in the area.

PORT HELI - ERMIONI 15 Miles: is a quaint little Greek village. It's placed on a little piece of land jutting into the sea, which is only 4 blocks wide at the largest part and about a mile and a half long. The lack of anything resembling a sandy beach has saved it from the mass impact of tourism but that doesn't mean there is no great swimming there, or tourists.

Ermioni has a market day every Thursday, which is worth a visit to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables while mingling with the locals.
Ermioni also offers great diving adventures. Explore the Ermioni reefs, which have a drop off up to 45m (for advanced divers) or dive the blue reef.


Ermioni

ERMIONI - MONI - AEGINA - 25 Miles: The name "Moni" originates from the fact that the Monastery of Chrysoleontissa formerly owned it, though now the Touring Club of Greece owns it.

It is inhabited mainly by its wildlife: rabbits, Cretan mountain goats, miniature horses and peacocks who will rush down to the boat when you land looking for food. Moni is a predominantly rocky island, covered in wild sage, mountain herbs, purple thyme and caper bushes.


Moni Agio

AEGINA: The most important archaeological site lies to the east of the island near Agia Marina, where the temple of Aphaia, the ancient goddess of Aegina, is situated. The first temple was erected in 570 B.C. and destroyed some sixty years later. The temple, whose remains we see today, was built on the same spot out of limestone from the vicinity. Traces of the original temple can be seen in the foundations of this Doric building.


Temple of Afaia on Aegina

South of the capital is the seaside village of Marathon, followed by the fishing port of Perdika (9 km.). From Perdika small boats ferry visitors to the picturesque islets of Angistri and Moni, ideal spots for enjoying nature, solitude and relaxing pursuits.

Nowadays Aigina is famed for its pistachios and its ceramics so be sure to pick some up while you are there.

AEGINA - ATHENS - 18 Miles. Disembark at noon.

A charter in the Ionian Islands can either start in Athens, with a trip through the Corinth Canal to cruise up the Ionian Islands to Corfu, or start in Corfu or even Brindisi, Italy for a cruise in the southerly direction. The Ionian Islands are well known for beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, small intimate villages and lovely anchorages.

Below, is a suggested itinerary for this island chain.


THE IONIAN ISLANDS - GREECE


CORFU

Corfu is the most fought-over, romantic and cosmopolitan of all the Ionian Islands. Homer tells us Odysseus found shelter in Corfu at the end of his wanderings. Corfu Town is presided over by two imposing Venetian fortresses and Renaissance-style city squares. Enjoy its museums and the sound and light show at the old fort.
Anchor between Kanoni and Mouse Island on the tip of a small peninsula south of Corfu's town center to visit the much photographed Monastery of Vlachema. Visit the tiny island of Pondikonissi, crowned by a 13th Century church, or enjoy a round at the excellent Corfu Golf club.


PAXOS

Fifteen miles south of Corfu sits tiny Paxos, a major producer of fine olive oil with some orchards dating back to the Venetian occupation (1204-1550). Seven spectacular caves on the western coast include Ipapanti, Homer's cave.


Navigate the ancient Levkas Canal and enter the charming harbor of Lefkada, named for the white cliff from which Sappho supposedly flung herself in the 6th century B.C. Shops around the harbor sell traditional lace.


LEFKADA

En route to Ithaki you will see many Cqiques, the traditional sailing boat of Greece. Ithaca town is a small, hospitable place full of Homerian history and coves with crystal-clear water.


ITHACA - FRIKES OLD WINDMILL

Kefalonia is the largest island with forests offering beautiful walks. Kefalonian wines are unlike those of the rest of Greece due to the introduction of the Robola grape in the 13th century. The archetypical fishing village of Fiskardo is popular with visiting yachts.

Zakinthos is reminiscent of Venice. In fact, Venetians colonized it. On one side of the port is St Dennis Cathedral and on the other side the picturesque Main Town. The view of the port and the town from above is simply breath taking and even more enjoyable from one of the many open-air cafes.


FISKARDO FOOTPATH

From Itea in the Gulf of Corinth you will visit Delphi which the ancients considered the center of the world and whose oracle was the most revered.

To reach the final destination of Athens transit the Corinth Canal, which is 3.2 miles long and 81 feet wide. It cuts through limestone cliffs that rise to a height of 260 feet. Depart in Athens.


THE CORINTH CANAL

Greek Dodecanese Islands
Rhodes - Samos or Kusadasi (Turkey)

Day 1: Join your yacht in Rhodes, with an east coast of endless sandy beaches and sunshine 300 days a year, Rhodes is the most popular of the Dodecanese. The incredibly well preserved old town of Rhodes is the largest inhabited medieval town in Europe. Behind imposing walls, it is the fortified nucleus of Rhodes City. The tranquil, twisting alleyways in the old town are a web of Byzantine, Turkish and Latin architecture. Faliraki Beach is the island's premier resort; the beach at Kalithea Thermi is the site of an abandoned Italian spa. If you are looking for quiet shores cruise over to Stegna Beach or the sandy cove of Agathi. Overnight.


Ministry of the Archangel Michael Panormitis

Day 2: A lovely, mountainous island, Symi (or Simi) was reputed to be the birthplace of the Three Graces. While its interior is punctuated with small valleys, its coastline alternates between being steep and rocky or sandy and indented with little coves. One of the island's most famous landmarks is the monastery of the Archangel Michael Panormitis on the southwest coast. It was built in the 18th century, and contains marvelous frescoes and a carved iconostasis. This Ministry claims that all waters of the world pass through their bay at some point. If you would like to reach them, simply place a message in a bottle and at some point it will reach them. Whether or not this is always true, be sure to stop in at their museum with bottle messages they have received over the centuries. If you ask, perhaps one of the priests will give you a vile of blessed waters for your journey. There is no lack of wonderful beaches on Symi. You'll find good swimming at Yialos, Pedio, Emborios, Marathounda, Nanou as well as on the nearby islets of Agia Marina and Nimos. 23 NM from Rhodes.


Day 3: Cruise over early to the tiny remote island of Kastellorizo. This islands has no beaches and has instead several rocky inlets, where you can swim and snorkel in the crystalline sea. With the Knights of St John Castle situated above the quay, it is one of the most picturesque harbors in the Dodecanese. On the southeastern coast of the island is the beautiful blue cave. Enjoy lunch before heading across to Tilos, which has fine tranquil beaches, vistas of high cliffs, rocky inlets and valleys of almond and walnut trees. There are only two settlements, the peaceful whitewashed village of Magalo Horio and the waterfront town of Livadia. The uncrowded beaches of Eristos (shaded), Agios Antonis (sandy) and Plaka are a real treat. Overnight


Nisyros

Day 4: After breakfast, cruise over to Nisyros, which is said to be one of the most beautiful of all Greek islands It is a strange combination of luxuriant vegetation and stark moonscapes. A dormant volcano lies at the center of the island. The charming port town of Mandraki is comprised of winding alleys and brightly colored houses. It is situated beneath the cliff top monastery, Moni Panagias Spilianis. Near the port you will find the black stoned beach of Koklaki. Set on the volcano's ridge are the villages of Emboreios and Nikea, which both have spectacular views into the caldera. The islands best beaches are at Pali and Lies. After lunch cruise over to Kos. Overnight.


Kos

Day 5: KOS, Situated only 5km off the Turkish peninsula of Bodrum, is Kos, one of the most fertile islands in the Dodecanese. Like Rhodes, it is abundant with ancient remains and beautiful beaches. The landscape of modern Kos Town, the island's capital and main port, is picturesque. The Castle of the Knights prevails over the port, while Hellenistic and Roman ruins are littered everywhere. There are numerous archaeological sites to visit. The Asclepion is Kos' most important ancient site, it is located on a pine covered hill 4km southwest of Kos Town. Amongst the many sandy beaches, Agios Stefanos, sitting next to the ruins of two 5th century basilicas, is a must. At Masthari you can find a number of secluded spots on the sandy shores to rest and relax. Later that afternoon, cruise over to Leros.

Day 6: LEROS gentle, sloping countryside is spotted with smallholdings and huge, impressive, almost-landlocked bays, resembling lakes more than open sea. Platanos, the capital of Leros is 3km north of Lakki, the main port. This tiny picturesque village spills down the narrow hillside to the port of Agios Marina. On the east side of Platanos, a massive castle crowns the mountainside dwellings. Set on the wide Alinda Bay, are the adjoining resorts of Krithoni and Alinda, which have a lovely, long tree-shaded sand beach.

At Belfoutis Bay you will find a shaded sand and pebble beach and a good taverna. A good spot for snorkeling, Xirokambos Bay is a mellow resort with a sand beach. Leave after lunch for Patmos.

Day 7: For both Orthodox and Western Christians, Patmos has long been a place of pilgrimage, for it was here that St John wrote his divinely inspired revelation, the Apocalypse. Once a favorite destination for the devout, Patmos is now just as popular with sun and sea worshippers. All boats dock at glitzy Skala, which sprawls around a large curving bay. Wrapped around the immense Monastery of St John the Theologian, the beautiful hilltop village, Hora. With its immaculate whitewashed houses and maze like alleys, it is absolutely enchanting.
There are a number of sandy tree-shaded beaches around the island. Psili Ammos is the best beach and is only accessible by boat. Leave late in the afternoon for Samos.


Samos

Day 8: Samos, the birthplace and home of Pythagorus, is quite the upmarket, cosmopolitan island. The little harbour of Pythagorion is lined with dozens of tavernas along the waterfront. Disembark for a domestic flight back to Athens, or cruise to Kusadasi, Turkey to disembark (1 hour) for a ferry back to Samos or a flight out of the nearby airports of Izmir or Bodrum to Istanbul.

Take advantage of the shoreside services offered at the Bitter End Yacht Club, which include a marina, pool, beach, water sports, restaurants and bars and even a spa. The Clubhouse Steak and Seafood Grille has been a yachting landmark for years. This open air restaurant sports the burgees from hundreds of yachts and yacht clubs from all over the world fluttering gently in the breeze from the numerous paddle fans, evoking a colonial Caribbean feel. The buffet is well known for homemade soups, and breads, and if you have not tried a grilled Caribbean lobster, basted with butter, this is the place for freshly caught lobster barbecue.

North Sound, once home to pirates Sir Francis Drake and Sir John Hawkins, was a remote quiet anchorage, rarely visited. In the early 60's, a rustic bar and cottages existed clinging to the point of land for adventurous sailors. The Hokins Family arrived, fell in love with the area and have built the resort into what it is today, which while offering resort style accommodations and services, still runs off of generators for electricity and rainwater is collected from rooftop cisterns. Should you choose to stay a few days ashor, beach villas, hillside villas, and even some of the original cottages, upgraded with more modern conveniences could be available, depending on the season.

Salt Island and the Wreck of "RMS Rhone"



The British Royal Mail Steamer, "Rhone" was wrecked off of the shores of Salt Island, in between Salt Island and Norman Island on October 29, 1867, during a hurricane. The Rhone, built in 1865, was considered by the Royal British Navy to be one of two unsinkable ships, the other being The Titanic, with both ships, unfortunately proving the Royal British Navy wrong.

Built at the Millwall Iron Works in Southampton, England, the Rhone was 310 feet long with a 40 foot beam. Sporting two masts, the Rhone was a favorite with passengers, as she sailed along at 14 knots, an almost unheard of speed at that time. Carrying cargo, the Rhone also had lavish passenger staterooms, with 253 first class staterooms, 30 second class cabins, and 30 third class cabins. Just prior to the sinking, the Rhone had come alongside RMS Conway to refuel in Great Harbor on Peter Island. As the skies darkened and the barometer dropped, it was decided that all passengers would be transferred from the Conway to the unsinkable Rhone, and that the Conway would make way to Roadtown Harbor in Tortola and the Rhone would head out to weather the storm at sea.



The Conway never made safety in Roadtown Harbor and was caught by the tail end of the storm, foundering off of the south side of Tortola with the loss of all hands.
With all passengers strapped to their beds, as was the norm at that time for safety under hurricane conditions, the Rhone attempted to head out to the open seas. As the Rhone came around between Peter Island and Salt Island the tail end of the storm caught the ship and tossed it onto Black Rock Point. The Rhone split in half, causing cold water to come into contact with the hot boilers, which then exploded sending the rest of the ship to the bottom. Sadly of the 143 passengers on board, plus and unknown number that were transferred on board from the Conway, only 23 crew survived. Many of the dead were buried on nearby Salt Island.

As the waters were shallow, the mast of the Rhone was still to be seen sticking up from the water, until the 1950's when the Royal British Navy deemed the mast and wreck to be a maritime hazard and sunk the ship further into the waters. In 1967, the area was named a National Park and now is one of the best snorkel and dive site to explore a wreck in the Caribbean. As the wreck is still in relatively shallow waters from depths of 20 to 80 feet, much is seen by snorkelers, and the diving is considered relatively easy.

The most popular and well known of all the BVI dive sites, the Royal Mail Steamer "Rhone" was also the setting for the movie "The Deep" with Nick Nolte and Jacqueline Bissett. Today she is decorated by a wide variety of corals and is home to several resident barracuda, sea turtles, stingrays, angelfish, yellowtail snappers and other colorful, Caribbean sea life.

Nearby Salt Island lives up to its name as a once thriving location for salt harvesting from the salt ponds. Previously an important source of salt for the Royal British Navy, Salt Island now boasts one inhabitant overseeing the island and once active salt ponds.

The pirate Blackbeard, who real name was Edward Teach, once made his home in Soper's Hole from 1715 to 1718. Called a "Hole" because of the protection offered by the deep cut of the anchorage into the surrounding hills, the harbor allows yachts to anchor with good weather protection. Soper's Hole is a good spot to stop while on charter in the British Virgin Islands as the same protection and calm anchorage that made Soper's Hole attractive to Blackbeard, is attractive to yachtsmen today.

Surrounding the dock area are a series of brightly painted Caribbean style buildings creating a sense of a traditional Caribbean market place. Browse the shops for local artwork, crafts and jewelry made from a stone local to the British Virgin Islands, or stop for a bite to eat at the Pusser's Landing Restaurant and store.
Pusser's Rum was the original rum of the British royal Navy and for over 300 years the seamen on board a Royal Navy ship were issued a "tot" of rum each day with a double tot of rum given just prior to battle. The on board Royal Navy rum was issued each day by the Purser on board, and eventually the Purser's rum became referred to Pusser's rum. In 1970, that tradition was abolished in the British Royal navy and the recipe of the blend of 5 different West Indian rums was sold privately, Pusser's Ltd. was established in Tortola and the same rum served over 300 years to the British Royal Navy was bottled and sold to the public in Tortola starting in 1980.

Pusser's Rum quickly became a favorite of visiting yachtsmen when cruising the British Virgin Islands, which is very fitting as the Royal British Navy Sailors Fund, known commonly as the "Tots Fund" receives a portion of the sale of each bottle. Soon the now infamous drink, the Pusser's Painkiller was born and is now served in a variety of locations in the BVI's, but the best are served at the Pusser's restaurants, including Pusser's Landing Restaurant in Soper's Hole, where the Pusser's Painkiller is ordered by number according to the amount of rum poured in each drink.

Attached to the Pusser's Landing Restaurant is a Pusser's Rum store selling products branded with the Pusser's official label. In addition, Pusser's Rum drink mixes are sold along with Caribbean spices and condiments, for a taste of the British Virgin Islands.

Main Town Quay

Perhaps Foxy's is best known as the spot to celebrate New Year's Eve. Yachtsmen started congregating in Great Harbor several decades ago to ring the new year in at Foxy's. This has now become such a tradition, that it is wise to get to Great Harbor a day in advance for a good spot to anchor. As the New Year draws near, the harbor erupts with activity and the buzz of dinghies heading here and there, throughout the harbor, visiting friends, and ultimately heading ashore for Foxy's, and hailing in the new year, dancing on the beach under the stars.


Foxy

Although Jost measures just four by three miles, the island is rich in history. It's been home to Arawak Indians, Caribs, Dutch, Africans and English. William Thorton, architect of the US Capitol, was born on Jost while John Coakley Lettsome, founder of the London Medical Society, was born on nearby Little Jost.

Great Harbour is sheltered by small mountains and offers moorings. Visitors look forward to meeting the famous Foxy while enjoying a rum punch. In White Bay there is the Soggy Dollar Bar and Gertrude's, both of which offer cool Caribbean cocktails.


Jost Van Dyke has other offerings. Trace the old trails that connect the island. Explore the overgrown ruins of sugar mills. In the fall and winter, watch whales and dolphins from a hilltop. Or visit the bubbling pot at the East End, where the foaming sea forms a natural Jacuzzi. And you can stop by Foxy's newest watering hole, Foxy's Tabu, on Diamond Cay, at East End. You could walk across to Little Jost or take a boat to Sandy Cay, the perfect castaway island.

The Top of the Baths, which offers a restaurant, bar, pool and gift shops, is on a hill overlooking the area and provides panoramic views of the BVI. The restaurant has an extensive menu with lobster, grilled fish, conch and veggie burgers while the Caribbean Flavor and Caribbean Beachtique are shops with tropical clothes, jewelry, beach gear, island crafts and ship wreck coins.

Spend time exploring the area, with tidal pools of pristine clear waters, and white sand. Snorkeling is great, however more for the marine life, as this is not a coral area. Due to the various inlets and pools created by the landscape marine life is caught here with each tidal change.

If swimming or snorkeling, do pay attention to the safety flags as certain weather can cause currents with heavy undertows in this area. However, there are always the rocks to climb over and the white sandy beaches for sunning, if the water is unsafe.

Norman Island and Deadman's Bay


Peter Island



One big, private island, one small resort and one beautiful beach encapsulate the essence of Peter Island and Deadman's Bay. Peter Island resort is classic Caribbean. The 52-room hotel is the only resort on Peter Island, and its owner will not develop more acreage to insure the exclusivity and secret of the resort's success. Guests find a romantic island with no crowds, noise, themed activities and very few children. What they do find are other couples who dance to live music at night by the pool and relax on the beach by day.

Part of the allure of the setting is its history. Directly to the southwest lies Norman Island, the basis for Robert Louis Stevenson's "Treasure Island." Just off Peter Island's glorious Deadman's Beach is Deadman's Island-where a marooning inspired the popular poem: "16 Men and a Deadman's Chest." These are Peter Island's neighbors, and that sense of escaping to an (almost) deserted island never leaves guests' minds.

Deadman's Bay is a mile-long, crescent-shaped beach with towering coconut palms that overlooks Dead Chest and Salt Islands. It's part of Peter Island Beach Resort and thus, a private and secluded stretch of pristine beach for resort guests.

Peter Island Resort's largest and most spectacular beach boasts protected waters for excellent windsurfing, sailing, snorkeling, and other water sports. Little Deadman's Bay and Beach is an extension of its senior and is a preferred spot for world-class snorkeling.

Peter Island Resort does have a dock for visiting yachts and dinghies, and welcomes yachtsmen to dine in their restaurants, and as day guests for their water facilities and beaches, for a charge. All can be arranged by your Captain, as reservations are recommended for dining.

Just opened, is a new day spa, with world class treatments, in a world class setting. The spa also accepts visiting yachting guests for treatments with reservations. Make a reservation for a massage or other treatment and then relax on the beach, with a cooling swim.

Peter Island Resort also has a private ferry from a private ferry landing in Tortola. You can either spend time at Peter Island before your charter or after your charter. Either way, you can be picked up by your private charter yacht right at the Peter Island Resort, or dropped at the resort after and take the Peter Island Resort ferry over or back for your plane flight to and from the British Virgin Islands in Tortola.

The William Thornton Floating Restaurant and Bar



The William Thornton, also referred to as "The Willy T" anchored in the Bight of Norman Island in the BVI, is a well loved floating restaurant and bar. In 1989, Mick and Annie Gardner launched the restaurant, mooring their original William Thornton in the Bight of Norman Island. As uninhabited then as it is today, it soon became a popular overnight anchorage for the yachting community. Many charterers and yacht crew recall dining aboard the Willy T, sitting at the large common table, with their feet dangling in the holds below.

The wooden Baltic trader was eventually replaced with the current William Thornton, a steel 100-foot schooner with more room in the galley and restaurant and the large bar area. The new William T. also features a large aft bridge deck where daring souls jump from the safety rails into the water below the stern.

The restaurant was named after William Thorton, who was born on Jost Van Dyke in 1759, and died in 1823 in Washington DC. While trained in Scotland as a physician, Thorton initially had a plantation in Tortola. Thorton found his way to Washington DC and there, as an avid amateur architect, his drawings were chosen from the competition as approved by President George Washington for the design of the US Capital Building in 1793. Besides the $500 prize for the winning design, Thorton also won a lot of land in the newly developing capitol of the United States.
"The Willy T" is reachable only by yacht or dinghy, with rather than a swim up bar, a sail up bar, so those in company on board will also be those that enjoy life on the water.

Visit their web page, you will enjoy it!: William Thornton Website

SUGGESTED CROATIA & MONTENEGRO ITINERARY



KOTOR

The Bay of Kotor, one of the few fjords in the region, is truly memorable. With roots dating back to the site of a 3rd-century Roman military outpost, the fortress city of Kotor was a Byzantine stronghold in the 6th century; today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A walking tour takes in the great Romanesque cathedral of St. Tryphon and the Naval Museum, housed in an 18th-century Baroque palace. Afternoon cruise down the bay to Dubrovnik. (40 miles)

After breakfast, clear through customs and get ready to visit the spectacular walled city of Dubrovnik. The wonderfully preserved 15th Century "Old Town" features ancient buildings, squares, cobbled streets and fountains, all created from the same beautiful cut stone. Visit the historic main square, the priceless collections in the Dominican Monastery, the Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik Cathedral and the Franciscan Monastery. Overnight.

Dubrovnik to Celo on the island of Kolocep or Lopud - an excellent beach for lunch and then on to Sipanska Luka, a delightful little village with an old quay to moor against. Lovely walk up the hill to a church where you can see for miles around. (11 miles) Overnight.



MLJET

Leave early for the Island of Mljet. The island was once one of the biggest producers of olive oil in the Med. Odysseus was fabled to have been seduced here by nymphs in Homer's "The Odyssey", but it had to be a fable because in real life, he would never have left. Swim and have lunch at a little secluded bay and then on to Polace, (literally "palace") to explore the ruins of a Roman palace. Cruise along a long wooded inlet, and you could be forgiven for thinking that you were sailing up a Norwegian Fjord. At the end is a protected bay with restaurants. Have dinner on board or ashore. Overnight to Korcula (15 miles)

Awake early for a walk around the fortified medieval town of Korcula (pronounced KorCHoola) where Marco Polo was born. Have a drink at the cocktail bar at the top of one of the towers, where the drinks arrive by a pulley outside the walls, as the stairs are too steep. Leave after lunch for Hvar.



HVAR

Hvar town is overlooked by a large castle and has the oldest theatre in Croatia (circa 1200). This is where the beautiful people hang out. Enjoy a cocktail at the very chic "Carpe Diem" before strolling along the promenade to soak up the atmosphere of Croatia's Cote d'Azur. The ancients considered Hvar one of the "Isles of the Blessed". Flower-filled gardens, palms, lemon and orange groves add a fragrance lovely enough to match the visual appeal of this sun-drenched island beauty. Visit the theatre of 1506, the Benedictine Monastery, the town square and ancient stone houses. Overnight.



Leave early for Rogac, a hamlet of the village of Grohote on the northern coast of the island of Solta. In the port there is a citadel dating back to the 17th century. The church of St. Therese has an altarpiece with the portrait of the donor from 1749. The cove of Banje features the remains of a Roman fishpond. Enjoy lunch and a swim before heading up to Trogir to overnight.



TROGIR

Trogir is a small town outside of Split. Trogir stands on the foundations of an ancient Greek settlement on a small island connected to the mainland by bridges. This medieval town is a favorite stop, which offers restaurants, markets, and beautiful sights, including the 15th Century Trogir chapel and the 13th Century portal by the master Radovan. The yacht marina is situated on another small island opposite the old city walls, which is an easy walk over a bridge to the old town. After lunch head toward the ancient city of Split which was taken from Salona as the metropolis of the Roman province of Dalmatia. The medieval town developed out of the Emperor Diocletian's palace, which is recorded as a UNESCO - "monument of universal importance". Other sites to visit include the Peristyle, Jupiter's Temple and Visesllas's Baptistery.



After breakfast, cruise down to Vis. Studded with little coves and inlets, one is simply spoilt for choice as to where to stop for a dip. Evening in Komiza, where Tito hid from the Germans during WW2 and where there are two excellent restaurants serving fresh fish and local produce. In the Gradina area are remnants of the ancient Greek town of Ussa. On the small Pirovo promontory are remains of a Roman theatre and thermal baths. Enjoy lunch after a short morning sail to the off-lying island of Bisevo, where a quick jump in the dinghy will reveal "the Blue Grotto", an underwater cave that during the morning is lit from the sun, giving the water an amazing color. Head back to Vis town, a charming old town with some excellent restaurants and a wine bar where they serve nothing but wine from Vis. Overnight.


KORCULA

A Morning sail returns you back to the Island of Korcula, and the port of Vela Luka
(23 miles). The coastal strip, including the small islands of Proizd, Kamenjak, Osjak and Gubesa, represents a rich fishing ground. Also, there is a prehistoric archaeological site - Vela Spilja (Neolithic). Another historical site, the one-nave church of St. John, in the region of Gradina, was first mentioned in the 15th century. It has a bell tower on the main front ("na preslicu"), and a Gothic vault. The parish church and the belfry were built in neo-classical style. Overnight.

A good cruise to the deserted island of Lastovo. A military island until 1992, Lastovo was out of bounds to civilians and thus is completely undeveloped and spectacularly pretty. The lovely anchorage is well protected. Enjoy a swim and lunch before heading back to Cavtat, near Dubrovnik to overnight. The old town of Cavtat, in the very centre of the South Adriatic, is situated at the south slopes of the peninsula of Rat, in the immediate vicinity of Dubrovnik. Known as Epidaurum in ancient times, it is today the tourist and cultural centre of Konavle, the southernmost region of Croatia. The town of beautiful beaches and luxury hotels, together with a traditional way of life and preserved customs, waits for you. Overnight.

After a leisurely breakfast, sail to Dubrovnik to disembark.

Lady Sheridan

We were particularly pleased with Lady Sheridan, a 190' Abeking and Rasmussen power boat just launched last year. Sleeping twelve guests on board, in six guest staterooms, five of which have king sized beds, Lady Sheridan is a perfect choice for charter this coming season in the Caribbean. Lady Sheridan won the "Best Boat in Show" award, which says it all.


Va Bene

The Chef on board Va Bene, a 156' Custom mega powerboat, won first place in the Chef's Competition for Mega Yachts over 40 meters at the show. This yacht was built in 1992, and is very well maintained, having just had a major refit last winter. One of the only yachts built before 2000 with zero speed stabilizers, Va Bene is very comfortable on anchor. Va Bene is well known in the Eastern Mediterranean especially in Croatia during the summer months and sleeps twelve guests in 6 guest staterooms, all with ensuite heads.


Namoh

The Chef on Namoh, 125' Cheoy Lee, placed first in the Chef's Competition and first in "Best Crew Service, Ambiance and Table Setting" for the Mega Yachts 40 meters and smaller. This can only make you look forward to chartering this yacht if just to have a meal on board. Comfortable for up to ten guests in five guest staterooms, Captain Greg Russell looks forward to welcoming guests on board for yacht charter this winter in the Caribbean.


Tuscan Sun

And as always, we were very pleased to see Tuscan Sun, the 147' Izar launched in 2006and chartering for twelve guests in 6 guest staterooms. Captain Gui Garcia, and his wife Christina Jones-Garcia, the Chef, along with seven other crew create a very welcoming ambiance on board, and serve great food. Christina is a graduate of the California Culinary Institute and received her degree as a Certified Chef. A charter on board is always a wonderful experience.

See below to view a suggested menu from Chef Christina Jones-Garcia


M/Y Tuscan Sun Sample Week Menu
Chef Christina Jones

Breakfast
Daily options always include Continental breakfasts as well as hot entrees

Continental Breakfast-Fruit Platter with Hand Selected Tropical fruits, Ripe Melons and Sweet Berries, Freshly Baked Muffins and Pastries, Assorted Cereals, Flavored Yogurt, Fresh Squeezed Juices, Coffee and Tea

Hot Breakfast
Day 1 Crab and Avocado Omelets- Served with breakfast potatoes and crisp bacon
Day 2 Raspberry Bread Pudding- Sweet French bread, fresh raspberries and cream cheese in a rich vanilla custard, baked to golden perfection
Day 3 Huevos Rancheros- Corn tortilla topped with refried black beans, two fried eggs and Ranchero salsa with avocado and sour cream garnish
Day 4 French Crepes- Filled with fresh fruit and vanilla yogurt, with warm maple syrup and sausage
Day 5 Herb and Goat Cheese Omelet-Served with hash brown potatoes and crisp bacon
Day 6 Belgium Waffles- Warm maple syrup, fresh Chantilly cream and ripe strawberries served with sausage
Day 7 Smoked Salmon Benedict or Tomato Basil Benedict- Served with breakfast potatoes and bacon

Lunch
Day 1 Mediterranean Pannini & Roasted Garlic Caesar Salad~ Toasted sandwich with roasted red peppers, eggplant, caramelized onions and Bourson cheese with a Caesar salad
Day 2 Mahi Mahi and Black Bean Burritos- Filled with blackened Mahi Mahi, black beans, Mexican rice and cheese, topped with salsa fresca, guacamole and sour cream
Day 3 Macadamia Nut Chicken Breast- Mango-sweet Thai chili sauce, mashed potatoes and mixed greens with shallot vinaigrette
Day 4 Salad Nicoise with Seared Ahi Tuna- Crisp romaine lettuce, red potatoes, hard boiled egg, French green beans, Nicoise olives and shaved sweet onion with a Dijon vinaigrette
Day 5 Thai Style Crab Cakes- Fresh Dungeness crab mixed with water chestnuts, ginger and green onions, Served with ginger-lime mixed tossed mixed greens and a Thai red curry aioli
Day 6 Goat Cheese & Herb Gnocchi- Tossed with olive oil and garlic, accompanied with a baby spinach salad with oven roasted tomatoes, pine nuts and white truffle and lemon zest vinaigrette
Day 7 Hunan Grilled Chicken- Served with ginger-soy noodles, Asian slaw and toasted sesame seeds

Dinner
Salads/Starters
Day 1 Cornmeal Crusted Oysters- Golden pan fried, with Saffron aioli
Day 2 Goat Cheese and Fig Salad- Mixed greens tossed in a shallot- balsamic-pomegranate vinaigrette, fresh raspberries, toasted hazelnuts and proscuitto
Day 3 Classic Caesar Salad- Crisp romaine, garlic croutons and Parmesan triangles
Day 4 Creamy Blue Cheese Salad- Organic greens, Blue Cheese and apples tossed in a raspberry vinaigrette, topped with walnuts and crispy leeks
Day 5 Mediterranean Ahi Tuna Tar Tar- Sashimi grade Ahi Tuna, capers, tomato, basil, and garlic tossed with extra virgin olive oil, aged balsamic drizzle
Day 6 Steamed Mussels and Clams- White wine and garlic broth, sweet tomatoes, fresh basil and herb crostini
Day 7 Thai Coconut Curry Soup- With mixed Julienne vegetables, Shitake mushrooms, fresh Thai basil garnish

Entrees
Day 1 Wild Mushroom and Fire Roasted Red Pepper Pasta- Chanterelle and shitake mushrooms, with asparagus slivers and Penne pasta in a rich Gorgonzola cheese- basil cream sauce
Day 2 Pan Roasted Halibut-Sauced with a buerre blanc, sautéed tomatoes, capers and garlic, over wilted spinach and smashed baby red potatoes
Day 3 Grilled Filet Mignon- Topped with a Cambazola- thyme butter, sautéed mushrooms in a rich pancetta Bourbon glaze with garlic mashed Yukon Gold potatoes
Day 4 Roasted Breast of Duck- Thinly sliced and sauced with a orange-ginger rice wine vinegar reduction, maple whipped yams and zucchini strings
Day 5 Sesame Seared Ahi Tuna-Sesame crusted and seared medium rare, Island pineapple salsa, stir-fried asparagus with garlic-soy glaze and wasabe mashed potatoes
Day 6 Roasted Pork Tenderloin- Sliced thin and sauced with a cherry-balsamic reduction, baby carrots, and Brie-caramelized onion potato gratin
Day 7 Pepper Seared Ono(Dorado)- Served over stir-fried Shitake mushrooms, baby bok choy, and sweet red peppers , steamed Jasmine rice, and finished with a Lilikoi (passion fruit) buerre blanc

Desserts
Day 1 Classic Tiramisu- Italian cookies laced with espresso, rum, cocoa and layered with sweetened mascarpone cheese and shaved chocolate
Day 2 Caramelized Coconut Bananas-Bananas in a warm caramel-rum sauce served with vanilla bean ice cream and topped with toasted coconut and chocolate sauce
Day 3 Individual Molten Chocolate Cakes- Oozing chocolate centers with fresh raspberry drizzle
Day 4 Chocolate Mousse-Flavored with Kahlua, Amaretto and Hazelnut Liqueurs, topped with freshly whipped cream
Day 5 Layered Vanilla cake & fresh Strawberries- Layers of vanilla cake filled with whipped cream and sliced fresh strawberries
Day 6 Coconut Creme Brulee-With mango puree and a ginger cookie
Day 7 Warm Blackberry Pie- Sweet blackberries, lemon zest, vanilla bean ice cream with chiffonade of mint

MENU: 8 Meals

Scallop soup with Salmon Caviar and Creme fraiche
Goat's cheese, cherry vine tomato bruschetta
Roast asparagus with lemon, feta, mint and capers
Brochettes of Spicy King Prawns with mango and Orange Salad (sweet chili, reduction with an extra tang of ginger)
Mediterranean Platter (Assorted Fine Cheese, Jamon Iberico, Pata Negra and Pan Boli)
Lamb Tacos

Coconut Chicken, Avocado Salad (mixed leaf salad; chicken gently poached in coconut milk)
Steamed Sea Bass with Ginger and Black Beans and BokChoy
Fillet Mignon with wild mushrooms and mange tout
Ratatouille
Lamb Kofta With Hummus and Tabbouleh
Tuna with lime and mustard with char grilled Vegetables

Frozen Lime Cheesecake with Lemoncello
Passion fruit mousse
Apricot Souffle
Flamed Berries with Ginger and Green Tea Ice-cream
Moulton Chocolate Puddings

King Prawns with sweet chili and ginger
Seared scallops, Pasta and Caviar served with a side of Grilled Asparagus
Almond and Apricot Cake with Oranges in Caramel

Chili Tonkatsu Sweetcorn
Marinated Coconut Chicken, Arugula, watercress and tomato cherry
Strawberry shortcake with vanilla Cream

Mixed Leaf Salad with Mozzerella, Prosciutto, Peach and Mint
Roasted pepper and goat's cheese lasagna
Lychee, pear and raspberry fruit salad

Sliced Roast Beef with Horseradish cream, French beans olive oil and lemon
Chocolate and Lemon Tart with Raspberry Coulis

Fishcakes with Quail eggs and Salmon Roe
Poached Salmon Fillet with watercress, crispy bacon, tomato cherry, yoghurt and dill dressing
Poached peaches with saffron, ginger and chili

Asparagus, herb salad and duck eggs
Roast loin of Lamb with Goat's cheese and Lavender
Apple pie and dark chocolate chili cherries

Mixed Samosas with Riata and Sate Ayam
Rendang and Nasi Goreng curry with Fragrant Jasmine Rice
Papaya and Pineapple salad with lime and ginger

However, in addition, this yacht has a spa room, with a dedicated masseuse on board available at anytime for various spa treatments, including massage, body scrubs, pedicures and manicures. Or a portable massage bed can be brought to your stateroom, on deck or to the beach. On the top sun deck Thai massage can be offered. All spa products used on board Xanadu are organic and natural. Have a foot massage with reflexology featuring essential oils from a small boutique provider in Tuscany. Have a hydrating facial with flower petal rejuvenating masks and face polish. Have a hot stone massage, with a lemon grass and brown sugar body scrub on the beach, cleansing after with a reviving swim in crystal clear waters.
All treatments are included in the charter price.



And of course, on board Xanadu, there is high speed continuous internet access, and Apple TV offering many different channels, and a very large movie selection. An innovative screen on the sun deck with surround sound allows the picture to be seen both on the front and the back of the screen, for those sitting in the Jacuzzi or those sitting on the sun lounges.




Along with the Jacuzzi on the sun deck is an air conditioned gym, with several workout machines. After a good workout, relax in the Jacuzzi while a healthy snack is grilled on the sun deck Tappenyaki grill.







Are you ready for water sports? Xanadu has three state of the art tenders, one with a Rolls Royce jet drive inboard engine and walk off stern for easy beach access, one with 160 horsepower inboard engine, perfect for water skiing and tow toys, and a 3 man personal hovercraft. There is a large sofa tow toy that seats three, an inflatable walk on water ball, and a multitude of other water toys and game fishing gear for hours of water fun. A beach day can be organized with dining under a beach tent, and beach games, with an inflatable dock outlining a safe swimming area and available for sunning. Step ashore from the jet drive tender, sea kayak or snorkel from your private instant beach area, while the yacht chef barbecues lunch to be enjoyed out of the sun under the beach tent. Or explore the area in the hovercraft and the jet skis, while your massage table and organic products are being set up for a completely natural spa treatment.



At Northrop and Johnson Yacht Charters, we think that a charter experience on Xanadu will be hard to beat and with everything offered on Xanadu, the charter time will fly by, leaving you ready for your next charter.

Breakfast
French toast with an apricot glaze
Cheese and onion frittatas with a chive creme fresh
Poached eggs and grilled Serrano ham on cinnamon toast.
Smoked salmon and scrambled eggs in a pancake roulade.
Authentic Spanish omelets.
All served with coffee, tea, juices, cereals, fresh fruit , preserves and a bread selection

Lunch
Fresh crab meat with a coriander and chili dressing served with a romaine salad tossed with roasted capsicum, zucchini, fennel and cherry tomato.
Chicken tikka with a limed leaf salad, asparagus and sundried tomato served with a minted yoghurt dressing.
Seafood kebabs basted in a mango dressing , grilled and served on an almond , sultana and avocado couscous.
Fajitas with stripped beef roasted Caribbean vegetables bound in a guacamole, tomato or pesto dressing.
Zucchini , chorizo sausage & spinach quiche with homemade potato salad and a green leaf medley.

Appetizers
Salt & Pepper shrimp with lime mayonnaise
Cream cheese and asparagus pancakes with sauce hollandaise
Yakitori chicken sticks on a crisp chilled limed leaf salad
Crab cakes with sweet chili dressing
Stuffed smoked salmon coronets with lemon infused balsamic dressing

Dinner
Mussamun beef strips with a coconut pilaf rice
Poached cod and crab cake stack with roasted vegetables and a minted sweet pea jus.
Chicken roulade stuffed with a herbed cream cheese and asparagus on a sweet potato mash under a light rice wine mustard broth.
Salmon fillets with red capsicum butter, served with crushed garlic potatoes and roasted vegetables.
Authentic moussaka served with a fresh Greek salad and warm garlic bread.
All serve with a world class wine selection.

Desserts
Dark chocolate mousse infused with frangelica served with chocolate tipped madalaines.
Lemon meringue pie and Chantilly cream
Irish cream sultana & bread and butter pudding served with a crème anglais
Peach & cinnamon cobblers with a vanilla custard
Mixed berry crumble with a cherry liqueur and crème fraiche
Individual Tiramisu

Read about the Final Day of the Show: Antigua Yacht Charter Show: Featuring Yacht; Xanadu

Tracy Arm and Sawyer Glacier

Tracy Arm, 45 miles south of Juneau, is one of two fjords that occupy the Tracy Arm area. Along with Endicott Arm, the area covers about 653,179 acres and both fjords are about 30 miles long. About one-fifth of the area is covered in ice. Approaching by sea, visitors sail along meandering bends and pass blocks of ice on their way to view the twin Sawyer Glaciers, located at the head of the fjord. The sides of Tracy Arm rise steeply to the 7,000 foot height of the surrounding mountains and reveal numerous waterfalls and glacial blue water. The area is home to a variety of wildlife including black and brown bears, deer, wolves, harbor seals, sea lions, eagles, mew gulls, arctic terns and pigeon guillemots. Mountain goats are occasionally spotted near the base of Sawyer Glacier. Often little harbor seals are basking on the small blocks of ice that have calved from the face of the glacier.

The spectacular twin Sawyer Glaciers are a viewing point to see shedding ice. Chunks as tall as a three-story apartment building have been known to fall into the sea. In fact, the head of Tracy Arm sheds ice about once an hour.

Spend time up close to each glacier, watching the calving action, however beware of the large waves created. If in a tender, you can go right up under the face of the glaciers and circle around the ice chunks dotted with harbor seals basking in the sun. Put sea kayaks in the water and kayak around the ice field, stopping to break chunks of glacier ice off for cocktails.