Sea Cloud rounded the south end of the Peloponnesus peninsula at first light, and by 0900 we were well into the Ionian Sea with the island of Kythera in our wake. We were facing a westerly headwind, and since a true square-rigger such as Sea Cloud can only sail 70 degrees into the wind, we positioned ourselves to set sails southward with the wind on a starboard beam reach for the day. It’s always nice to have the first day on Sea Cloud at sea under sail, not only to get to know the sails and the ship, but also to get to know the 60 crew that operate the vessel and tend to the 54 guests.
9/20/2024
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Sea Cloud
Kotorfjord, Montenegro
Sailing into Kotor, Montenegro is a breathtaking experience. As the ship glides through the narrow fjord-like Bay of Kotor, the towering mountains embrace the crystal-clear waters, creating a majestic natural amphitheater. The medieval town of Kotor slowly emerges, its ancient stone walls and red-tiled roofs a striking contrast against the lush green mountainsides. The air is filled with the scent of saltwater and pine trees, as the ship docks in the charming harbor. A short boat ride from Kotor leads to Gospa od Škrpjela (Our Lady of the Rocks), a tiny, man-made island steeped in legend. The island, crowned by a beautiful Catholic church, is said to have been created by sailors who laid stones in the water to honor an icon of the Virgin Mary. The church’s interior dazzles with intricate paintings and silver votive plaques, each one a token of gratitude for answered prayers. Surrounding the island is the calm, sapphire sea, reflecting the sun’s rays and the grandeur of the surrounding mountains. Visiting Gospa od Škrpjela offers a serene, spiritual pause, enhancing the timeless beauty of Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor.
