Words by Judith Baker
Montenegro, the Black Mountain, is the tenth smallest country in Europe at only 5.019 square miles. Its influences range from Christian Orthodox and Catholicism, to the Ottoman and Venetian eras. The Pearl of The Adriatic gulet cruise visits some of Montenegro’s key islands with time for sightseeing, water sports and relaxing.
Montenegro may be tiny but it is rich in cultural and natural attractions including UNESCO walled cities, beautiful Venetian architecture, tiny fishing villages and pristine beaches. There is no shortage of glitzy super yachts in the modern marina at Puerto Montenegro, Tivat, but the lovely wooden gulet which I found myself on stood out as one of the most distinctive boats.
Gulets are traditional wooden sailing yachts built in Türkiye, and I cruised on the beautiful classic yacht Kaptan Sevket, which has six cabins and can accommodate up to 12 passengers. A cruise on a gulet is to experience the nostalgia of the golden age of sailing with the wind in your hair and fascinating islands to discover.
The gulet
The boat is the ideal size for sailing in comfort – the small yacht can get up close to small bays and towns that are inaccessible to larger vessels. It can also stop to allow guests the chance to swim, snorkel, paddle board and sunbathe in lovely little bays far away from the crowds. The Turkish crew are familiar with this type of boat and are expert in manoeuvring the unique yacht, and with a small number of guests, the ratio of crew to passengers is high ensuring personal service and attention to detail.
Our captain explained the itinerary, and sailors keep the boat spotlessly clean and are always there to cater for every need. The chef prepares three meals a day and there is also the opportunity to eat on shore during overnight stops sampling the delicious Montenegrin cuisine. The chef is Turkish and meals are freshly made using local produce in a Mediterranean style. during the trip, the captain even caught fish from the boat as we watched and we enjoyed it for dinner that night.
On board the atmosphere is intimate and peaceful with space to relax, unwind and kick back. There may not be the riotous on board entertainment that one finds on bigger cruises, but gulet guests can enjoy fine food and drinks on with the opportunity to engage with a small group and take in the fabulous scenery in relaxing surroundings. Families and groups can be catered for and there is the opportunity for private charter of the gulet. This is a cruise for those who want to feel at one with the water and with nature, enjoying the sea spray on their face, and then lulled to sleep by gentle waves.
The cabins are compact and comfortable, with smart décor, a private shower, air conditioning and all amenities. On the back deck a wooden dining table hosts elegant dinners and the main room has a dining table, library and bar. The front deck has a tiled sunbathing area and a plush outdoor lounge perfect for sundowners.
Budva
Leaving Puerto Montenegro behind, we made our way to Budva, stopping at the popular sunbathing spot of Jaz Beach, one of the longest beaches in Montenegro. Budva, one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast, was founded more than 2,500 years ago.
Known for great beaches as well as its fascinating architecture, Budva has stone walls surrounding the narrow streets of the medieval old town filled with colourful shops, cafés and bars. The historic district houses a seaside citadel and the 18th century Church of Santa Maria in Punta.
Sveti Stefan
We sailed elegantly up to the fortified island village of Sveti Stefan, a charming collection of 15th century stone villas once loved by the likes of Sophia Loren and Princess Margaret. After a refreshing swim we sailed on and docked at the delightful fishing village of Bigova, fragrant with vines, pomegranate and olive trees. We dined al fresco at the local fish restaurant, Grispolis, where the proprietor presented his daily catch for us to choose from.
Perast
The colourful and photogenic island of Perast is filled with palazzos and pretty churches as well as seafront bars with terraces ideal for boat and people watching.
There are several tiny islands close to Perast, among them the magical 15th century Our Lady of the Rocks, just a short sail away. It is believed that the church was built around a statue of the Madonna found by fishermen. The interior is filled with paintings, votives and relics.
Kotor Old Town
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Kotor was a highlight of our cruise. The Old Town is a warren of winding streets housing Venetian inspired architecture, palazzos and crumbling churches. The energetic can climb the steps of the 14th century town walls to be rewarded with amazing views over the Bay of Kotor. The boat was in dock overnight, and we sampled some delicious local cuisine in one of the town’s elegant squares serenaded by a local cellist.
Herceg Novi
One of Montenegro’s most glorious coastal towns, Herceg Novi is a fortified city with fortresses, churches and a lively array of bars, cafés and restaurants. Pause on the steps up to the fort walls for a glass of raki or a tasty local pastry.
The cruise ended with a sumptuous captain’s dinner, and it rounded off what was definitely a memorable and glorious way to cruise around these spectacular islands in true style.
Factbox
The Pearl of The Adriatic Cruise lasts eight days and seven nights and departs from May to October. Departure and return location is Porto Montenegro Marina, Tivat, Montenegro. Nearest airports are Tivat, Podgorica and Dubrovnik.
Prices from £1,675 per person.
Phone: +38269346080
Email: reservations@guletcruisemontenegro.com
Website: guletcruisemontenegro.com
