We started our day once again with a leisurely sail. David Brotherson, our historian, presented “Thunder, Gods & Underdogs: the Greco-Persian Wars,” which offered an interesting analysis of strategies and failings of the ancient Greek and Persian leaders. After lunch and a short siesta, we came into port at Katakolon and boarded coaches to Olympia. It was a lovely afternoon for a ride through the countryside; we viewed sweeping orchards of olive trees, sporadic plots of cotton and corn, and yards full of beehives along the way. This is obviously an important area for agriculture. We visited the home of the original Olympic Games. The grounds were littered with fallen columns (thanks to the seismic activity of the area), archeological excavations, and thousands of years of ancient history — all to be interpreted and brought to life by our guides Effie and Gemma.
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.