Tuesday, October 1, 2024

Arriving in Dubrovnik, Croatia

“Exceeded expectations. The scenery, the food and service. Clear water. Friendly people.” Some of the comments on this amazing voyage.

Our crew was extraordinary… Captain Pino Dužević, and First Mate Nika Tabak are employed by the Croatian ship building company Monachus, headquartered near Split. Both of them worked on the construction of the yacht Panta Rei, which was built in 2022, and have worked for the company for four years. They have extensive experience and knowledge of the waters, history, sights and island nooks and coves,so the itinerary was flexible to accommodate the weather conditions. Pino was expert in finding the right places to drop anchor or tie up at a marina. Oh, and he was a professional water polo player and an Abercrombie & Fitch model.

Nika was more than a strong, capable first mate who handled the bumpers, ropes and anchor, she is a master mixologist and cheerful chef producing plentiful delicious meals, breakfasts featuring fluffy pancakes made from scratch, to lunches and dinners such as duck or incredible lamb entrees, desserts of crepes and everything spiced and dressed with fresh herbs and presented with flair. She is an insightful tourism guide, offering excellent suggestions for activities to suit the needs and desires of energetic, calorie-obsessed guests and more languorous like me.

Panta Rei is 70 feet, 40 tons, a unique lobster design and is beautifully appointed with teak flooring, American walnut cabinets, leather trim, four cabins plus a crew cabin, small and efficient galley, 2,400 horsepower, marine engines, Garmen navigation, including touchscreen electronic displays, WIFI and sound system— all in all an elegant package that is supremely comfortable.