Tailor-made cruise

There were differences in the Hutchinson household. My wife Pam fancied a holiday in Montenegro, I wanted to cruise the Dalmatian Islands. Deadlock.

Who would give way? It didn't come to a stalemate as Daisy from Anatolian Sky provided the solution. "I can organise for you to do both." When she came back with recommendations and cost, I paid the deposit immediately. This is how it turned out.

We boarded the elegant Adriatic Pearl in Dubrovnik (Croatia) a de luxe boat, capacity 36 people, with an itinerary that set my pulse racing. Setting sail we passed lush green islands with tiny golden beaches etched into their rocky shore line.

First port of call, the island of Korcula, birthplace of explorer Marco Polo. Our guided tour concentrated on the 'old town' claimed to be one of the best preserved medieval and renaissance towns in the Adriatic. It lived up to its reputation, a labyrinth of cobbled streets, all with their own style and each with its own story to tell. Our evening meal of Korcula style chicken at Cupido Restaurant was delicious and cost just £8 each including local beer.

Next day we sailed into the picturesque harbour of Brac, famous for white marble used to build the White House. We watched in awe as the stonemasons manually turned rough slabs into objects of beauty. Our visit ended with an invigorating swim in crystal clear waters.

The Adriatic Pearl seemed to glide across the Brac Channel to Omis, where we took an excursion up the river Cetina, a stunning canyon to an old flour mill, we enjoyed various hams, cheeses and breads, with wine from nearby vineyards, local musicians played lively folk music, I could have stayed all day.

Next stop, the vibrant town of Split, a highlight is the Roman Emperor Diocletian's Palace, housing medieval buildings and streets, outside the open market offers quality goods at keen prices.

By now we were thoroughly enjoying life on board the Adriatic Pearl, with fine food, excellent service and the added bonus of overnight stays in port. Heading towards the island of Hvar we anchored off a tiny bay on an uninhabited island, to swim above underwater beauty. Wooded hills sweep down to Hvar's stylish harbour which retains its Venetian architecture and intricately carved buildings, behind are endless fields of lavender.

Last port was Mljet, it is said Ulysses stayed for seven years during his Odyssey, I can understand why. What sets this island apart is its National Park which occupies most of the island, characterised by lush forests and colourful undergrowth, its two turquoise salt lakes form a setting of tranquil beauty. You take the ferry to the tiny island of St Mary's, home to the 12th century monastery, where a short climb reveals Roman ruins and breathtaking views. At £2 to enter, I would happily have paid 10 times more. Individually beautiful, the Dalmatian islands collectively offer a warm welcome to visitors. We spent our final night on the Adriatic Pearl in Dubrovnik with new friends from Down Under who we shared this wonderful cruise with. I could not help but raise an eyebrow when Pam said how pleased she was in choosing the cruise. I thought it was my idea.

We started our land based stay with three nights at the impressive Hotel Croatia, set above the charming village of Cavtat, and surrounded by Cyprus and Pine trees, this hotel is perfectly located on the peninsula, offering stunning views of islands, and nearby harbour easily accessible by its free shuttle service.

It is easy to relax in Cavtat, with its idyllic natural waterfront and laid back bars and restaurants. A pathway takes you round hidden coves and rock pools, with an abundance of wild shrubs, and plants, you have nature at its best. During our stay, guess who said why don't we take a day cruise to three more islands? I smiled and nodded in approval.

We chose the traditional boat 'Rudolfo' and its Skipper Dom said: "I promise a day to remember, and you will love our fish picnic."

After visiting Kolocve, returning on board we ate succulent hake and grilled vegetables, plus wine from the open bar. Next we swam off the island of Lopud then explored Sipan's fragrant countryside; the day lived up to Dom's promise. Ending our visit in Cavtat, that evening we dined at Toranj restaurant where we ate tasty Dalmatian dishes.

A scenic one-hour journey took us to neighbouring Montenegro where we stayed four nights in Budva. This small coastal resort has imposing mountains as a backdrop, surrounding three distinct areas. The historical old town Stari Grad has narrow streets to meander, connecting to quaint squares both rich in cultural heritage. Adjoining, but in contrast the swish Dukley Marina is home to craft from small sailing boats to super yachts, Budva is further enhanced by pristine beaches nestling in natural coves.

A must to visit is Porto restaurant located on the marina where the fish platter – a speciality – was exceptional, so nice we went twice. Budva is easy to embrace and the ideal place to end our Adriatic adventure.

We certainly discovered pearls of the Adriatic creating indelible memories from our first tailor-made holiday, the start of many, all down to Daisy at Anatolian Sky...despite Pam's claims.

Travel Facts

Chris Hutchinson travelled with Anatolian Sky Holidays.

A tailor-made holiday for the same 14-night itinerary, including flights and transfers and based on seven-nights Adriatic Cruise on the Adriatic Pearl (half/board), three-nights at the five-star Croatia Hotel in Cavtat (B&B) and four-nights at the four-star Avala Resort in Budva (B&B) would cost from £1,299pp travelling in April or early May.

A seven-night stay at the Croatia Hotel in Cavtat costs from £465pp (including flights and transfers)

For further details or to book call 0844 2733586 or visit www.anatoliansky.co.uk