Ep44 | Getting ripped-off in Beautiful Croatia

[@jeannem6723]

Without a doubt, the most well done cruising vids on the web! With the prettiest boat, I might add.

[@earlashton1342]

OMG. Thank you. I traveled to Dibrovnik in 1979 & it was outstanding. Since it was bombed in the war & I was gutted to think of what might have happened. The joy you have brought me is amazing. Thank you.

[@ben8mag]

My first time sailing was starting out boring until we tacked into the wind, it changed my feelings about sailing completely. Thanks for sharing. ♥️

[@buzzofftoxicblog791]

And making head way 😄

[@peterferguson3374]

We chartered a boat for a week and it was wonderful. Your film brought back all the holiday memories. An unexpected bonus was teaching myself to freedive to 10m and using the anchor chain as a measure. Looking up from that depth through the crystal clear water you could see the different layers of shoaling fish, back lit, glimmering in the sunshine. Content to look forward to a UK holiday this year which I am sure will be different but fun. .

[@hansslob6749]

Perfect pictures again. Thx. And about that corrupt behavoir, it’s a same that such a beautifull country is becaming a tourist nightmare!

[@DDixon3121]

Absolutely an excellent video packed full of beautiful scenery. Thank you so, so much for sharing your wonderful adventures.

[@miked6296]

Wake surfing behind a dingy with an electric motor! Love it!

[@hughdowling9267]

Loved this video thanks. Amazing shots! Such a shame they are overcharging or inventing charges. Looking forward to the next one. Thx again. H

[@Themothershipsailing]

I love your vlogs - and noticed that compared to many other cruisers, you have far less time fixing broken stuff - no doubt testament to choosing a good solid well made yacht! She’s gorgeous.

[@judyaslett2]

Haha I wish! We have a few things which are going into tech corner over the next few weeks. Sadly, things break on boats. That’s just the way it is.

[@buzzofftoxicblog791]

👍 agree

[@sheiladunk7583]

Hi,to you both,yet another great video,stunning views .thank you very much…Roly from the UK🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@andypennybrown6848]

Thanks for the great filming! Beautiful place really enjoyed travelling there a couple of years ago 😀

[@maricallo6143]

Well, a small light sailboat suddenly tacked into me in that very same Pelješac channel...lucky it wasn't you, I guess...great winds there though...also you should have visited Korchula (not Korkuya)

[@grahamcoffer1720]

Brilliant content once again,thanks

[@ukrainewarroom]

The town is fantastic, I just wandered around Scarborough today, not quite the same feel. Similar weather though!

[@chrisjackson6198]

Steve and Judy. Thank you for taking us on along on your journeys. We have very much enjoyed binge watching all your episodes and have learned so much so thank you both very much. What a great life you lead. We are currently switching to wind from our motor boat and have a competent crew course booked for later in the year. Questions if I may Do you need to check into every county you visit, even in schengen or eu? Steve, What was your route into sailing and which rya courses would you recommend for a novice sailor? Are you allowed in anchor inside a harbour breakwater if not causing an obstruction Thanks again and all the best

[@svfairisle]

Thanks Chris, glad you like the films. Brexit does mean checking into every country now, it was really nice having free movement in the EU before, it’s an absolute pain now! For the courses, yes RYA courses are good, but it’s very much dependent on the instructor you have, I started sailing as a kid and sailed with many good sailors, sailing is logical so common sense serves you well and experience is everything. In fact I was talking to someone last week who has been a liveaboard sailor for 3 years now & still refers to himself as a novice as he was new to it when he set off, truth is though that after 3 years of constant sailing he is probably more proficient than a guy with a yacht masters who sails the odd weekend in the Solent. Anchoring laws are different everywhere because they aren’t really laws they are local agreements. Again common sense applys. If your not in anyone’s way then you may be okay, if not you will be asked to move but people are usually very nice about it and helpful, in storms usually all bets are off and you have more leeway. You will find most real sailors very helpful even if you come across some snooty weekend sailor yacht club types so don’t be afraid to ask.

[@chrisjackson6198]

@@svfairisle thank you for the detailed reply. Very informative as always and very much appreciated

[@aleksanderkac7530]

@@svfairisle One needs to check in at the nearest port open to international traffic every time crossing territorial water boundaries with Croatia in a foreign vessel (other EU members also, no exception), even as Croatia is a full EU member. Croatia is not a part of the Schengen zone. There is also the matter of the vessel vignette/permit to navigate/ you need to purchase entering Croatian territorial waters, if you don't have one; and it must be renewed for each calendar year. You must also not forget the tourist-sojourn tax every foreign visitor is required to pay in every Croatian municipality/harbour for the duration of their stay, in increments of 3,8,15,30,90 or 365 days.

[@svfairisle]

@@aleksanderkac7530 yes we know, unfortunately doing all that will not save you if the Croatian authority’s decide to fine you anyway as they will just make up a bogus offence and issue a fine under threat of arrest.

[@grahamhp]

Great travel log as always, stay safe and enjoy your time on this amazing adventure.

[@svfairisle]

thanks Gray

[@SailingZatara]

We watched this vid and your next one (comments are turned off on it) and I wanted to just to say thank you for the information. We are considering a stop in Croatia this summer and a viewer recommended us watch these videos of yours. Egypt is very corrupt as well; it’s been eye opening (and disappointing) learning to cruise in these places. Thanks for sharing your experiences; you guys put out really good videos! ~Renee💕

[@svfairisle]

Thanks Renee, means a lot coming from you guys. It's such a shame the way Croatia has gone, ten years ago it was a nice place to be. The problem isn't just corruption (that was just the last straw for us) but the insistent money grabbing attitude by most of the people dealing with cruisers, a few weeks of it is bearable but it wears you down after a while. Croatia is still a great cruising ground though so I would still be tempted to go if only to sail up to Venice (sailing up the Italian East coast isn't great) which is a must see... And visiting by land is not the same, you have to sail into Venice lagoon to really experience it! if you are really serious about coming into the Aegean drop us a line ([e-mail]) we have some contacts in excellent marinas up here that can help you.

[@buzzofftoxicblog791]

Thank you 😊 sad about corruption and now we are out of Europ I have happy memories hich hiking 🚶‍♀️ 😀 1980s so free travelling around never even asked for a pass port 😉. Keep up the good work 🌎 👏

[@peterhaymaker7562]

As per usual - fascinating and brilliant. Looking forward the 2nd half of Croatia. I hope you manage to see the England/Italy game tomorrow. Stay safe.

[@brucebeckner3049]

I’ve been remiss in watching, but showed up just in time for this. My wife, our youngest daughter and I chartered on a flotilla charter here with Sunsail in 2006. It was one of our most enjoyable trips ever. The flotilla group was excellent: some Brits, some Irish and some American expats, with Croat guides leading the head boat. The guides always got us to great restaurants and great experiences. We capped off the last day with me making a batch of my Dad’s official US Navy fish house punch-which is surprisingly “punchy.” We invited a group of Croats in traditional costume to partake, so everyone had a wonderful time. Happily none of the corruption you experienced was evident. So sorry to hear this. Given that the Croatian economy seems highly dependent on tourism, this is truly self-defeating. So, have you given any thought to crossing the Big Ocean and seeing the Western Hemisphere?

[@judyaslett2]

I think things have changed in the past few years. That is what we are hearing. You had the best time of it! Yes we will be coming across probably in 2023 but who knows it could be earlier

[@svfairisle]

Yes I came to Croatia several times with our youngest daughter on kayaking holidays around that time and had no sign of corruption or overcharging either, in fact things were very cheap, you certainly couldn’t say that now! We are planning crossing the pond in 2 years time.

[@GK-qt7qg]

Planning to visit with family in the next year or so and this is making me think twice !

[@judyaslett2]

Do think twice. The comments we are getting in response to our video are jaw dropping

[@kennethkonoi9699]

In those windy conditions trying to catch a mooringbuoy boats do much better with stern to wind, especially boats with stern platforms. Just pull your mooringline from bow to stern along side of boat, don't foul your prop, and hook the buoy and let the boat swing around. Helmsman has a much better view and the windage in bow keeps bow automatically downwind.

[@svfairisle]

Yes exactly, the bow will always blow off, but most of those guys weren't even bothering to approach the buoy direct to wind they were coming in beam on! Being centre cockpit and with a decent bow thruster we just come up alongside direct to wind and I pick up the buoy amid ships close to the helm while Judy holds the bow to wind with the thruster if necessary before drifting back.

[@jonathanairey9123]

In Greece (South Ionian mostly), We use a pair of lifting webbing straps, with large 'eyes'. one goes round the rock or tree. The longline then bowline'd through the eyes. All x2. Very tough, and cheap to replace (one day). Also makes it easier for any visiting lesser skilled friends/family.

[@stephenchapman8344]

Looks like a fantastic place. 👍

[@paulcorrigan8227]

Hi guys, I hope you don’t mind me asking. What brand is your lounger and where did you get it from? We are waiting to be allowed entry to Vietnam to pick up a new build (completed in March). We’ve had the Sport-A-Seats on our list of ‘to buy’ when we can jump on board. Your lounger looked exactly the same style but with the additional benefits of the seat only. Many thanks!

[@svfairisle]

It’s called Comfort Seat, they are from Holland. We have two small ones for the cockpit and a larger lounger which is really comfortable. Thoroughly recommend them!

[@markking2032]

2013 we visited Croatia and came away with unfortunately a sour taste due to three of four bad experiences of corruption and greed. Shame is not improving, such a beautiful but tarnished country.. Great upload 👍👍

[@stevenfaler3003]

Best intro music of all the channels!

[@grahamatsea3575]

The Dubrovnik you've seen is beautiful. We've chartered from the nearby marina several times and each time we visited the city there were 3 massive cruiseliners in port. Seriously, in 40 C heat and so crowded you were shoulder to shoulder with others it wasn't that nice, in fact I stood about 30 minutes and that was enough. As for getting on the walls it was impossible.

[@buzzofftoxicblog791]

Thank you wow

[@derekp6636]

Ugh i had been avoiding even looking at boats available here, thank you for the info

[@simoncroatia]

Came to Croatia in 1998 initially peacekeeping with SFOR met my wife and have been here ever since. I have never been fined for something I didn't do and have never had any problems which I didn't create myself.

[@judyaslett2]

That’s good to hear. The Ministry of Tourism has written back to us and said the offence we were fined for “does not exist”. That’s pretty clear I think. I hope we get our money back…..

[@tim-youtubewatcher2726]

Considering your electrical set up, would it not be possible to buy a portable twin tub washing machine. I know caravanners use them and I understand they are efficient and not very expensive and lightweight?

[@svfairisle]

Yes when we have a lithium house bank and a water maker it might make sense

[@flyboy98]

Lovely music in you latest video! Love it.

[@VERTICALWisdom]

This is a HUGE problem for Croatia going forward. Being know for corruption against cruisers/tourist will cost Croatia dearly. We have heard these stories from many people.

[@EfferusZangetsu]

If you as a tourist move away from the coast, in 99% of the cases you will see a completely different side of Croatia. Regions like Gorski kotar or Slavonija (basically everything except the coast) are famous for being extremely friendly towards guests. You will see amazing stuff, be well fed and taken care of for reasonable prices. There are some exceptions to be found on the coast also, but you have to be extremely careful. My wife and me got our vacation saved by super friendly staff at Hotel Risnjak. We were traveling through Istra and wanted to sleep over in Motovun before heading for national park Risnjak. When we wanted to check into our apartment at 7 o'clock in the evening, we got blown of by the owner of the apartments saying that she has no free accommodations. We made our reservations and also talked earlier in the day with her because we wanted to check what is the situation regarding the parking. She was super friendly right up to the check in time. What was going on inside her head I have no idea... Since everything else nearby was also fully booked in desperation we called Hotel Risnjak (even though we did not originally plan on sleeping there) and they offered us a room with full board and free choice of food from anything on the menu when we arrive (even though dinner would normally already be long over by then). We ended up staying for 2 nights (we would stay longer if we could but my vacation time was over), trekked through amazing nature, got stuffed with amazing food and spent way less money than we would in Istra.

[@bertram5798]

Well, you might experiance this with croatians abroad as well ....

[@huudinii123]

you act like it doesnt happen in other countries too, lmao

[@tonkoprcic3428]

I bet that you broke the law somewhere and were panished for it.That's why you write such nonsense.That they didn't catch you throwing garbage into the sea or something like that? Typical for people who do not have a clear conscience .There is no HUGE problem for Croatia. it's only garbage in your head.

[@lkelly4337]

We are preparing to sail to Montenedro from Croatia. Which Croatia port did you checkout from which caused you the stress? Cavtal or Dubrovnik? Thank you for your help.

[@svfairisle]

I would recommend you go to Cavtat. We checked out from Dubrovnik.

[@davidjma7226]

Last time I visited Dubrovnik on a boat I met a fabulous you lady whose parents owned a brilliant pizza place. A few months later Dubrovnik was being shelled......I miss her still.

[@svfairisle]

Yes last tim Judy and I were in this region together was for the Kosovan war, very strange times

[@algarcia1442]

You guys are great, love your videos

[@crismoore6811]

I spent there 4 weeks in the 70's but movement was somewhat restricted and buildings were not as well renovated.

[@pboperations]

Really looking forward to next video

[@Matchlockman]

I am really enjoying the Fair Isle saga, keep it up, it’s great. I have had a bout moored in Croatia since 2007 and have never felt like I have been ripped off, sure if you go to hotspots like Hvar- pronounced Hwar, you will be paying top prices. The rules and regs are a legacy form the Tito days and they are making the most of the new EU rules imposed on them. I think the “officials” enjoy imposing them on unsuspecting tourists. BTW, Korcula is pronounce Korchula. The upturned v over a C changes the sound to ch and over a S to sh

[@judyaslett6209]

Thanks for your help on pronunciation. What we are looking at now is that we were given an illegal fine. The Ministry of Tourism has confirmed that. They have now passed our details on the the Ministry of Interior and we await a reimbursement. The rules are complicated enough as you say. To have this illegal activity on top of that is what is really worrying

[@BohemianBeatster]

As always a beautiful and informative adventure. Horrible for Croatia that there are so many corrupt officials there. World wide travel agencies talk, and boaters talk even more. Croatia will no doubt see a huge drop in visitors due to their corruption. On a positive not, your sailing vessel is magnificent. You two in a way remind me of two hippies from the 60's that never went away.

[@svfairisle]

Yes Croatia is such a beautiful place but the corruption is endemic in the system we are still chasing the Ministry of the interior there who know their officials imposed an fabricated fine still refuse to acknowledge it which unfortunately means the corruption goes all the way up.

[@miketcq8]

Shocking stuff how the go after the tourists... What do you do for water if no water maker? Do the town keys offer portable water for free? Or are you lugging jerry cans everywhere?

[@svfairisle]

We have over 900 litres of water on board so we tend to fill up from petrol stations when we go to get fuel or marinas on the rare occasions we go there. In Croatia you will get charged for water, usually about €20. From all accounts water is much easier to come by in Greece and often free. We would still be happier with a water maker though so it's on the list for next winter.

[@iancampbell3202]

Exactly the same happened to me never ever to return. I’ve told all my friends never to go there. Loved it and hated it in equal measure. I won’t go again

[@svfairisle]

Yes, shame isn’t it.

[@byronwise101]

Towards the end you said, "We have the place to ourselves." Does that imply that any shops/restaurants aren't open?

[@judyaslett2]

Very few tourists so some places are still closed yes.

[@erbrock1]

The reel and webbing looks like a great idea. Is there an episode that shows that setup in any detail? Also, once you have the length of webbing out, is it tied off on a bollard or a cleat so the reel doesn't take the strain? I really enjoy your channel. Thank you.

[@svfairisle]

Yes the webbing is cleated off on the boat. I will make another anchoring video that will show the whole process

[@InArcadiaSum]

@@svfairisle How do you guard against another vessel going through or over your webbing shore line, especially in the dark?

[@svfairisle]

@@InArcadiaSum well the UltraLine is dyneema so it floats & you can see it, I do put a buoy on the other one sometimes but to be honest in this part of the world people know if you’ve got the stern close to the shore you’ve got shore lines out so it’s unlikely to be a problem.

[@erbrock1]

@@svfairisle That would be great. Thank you!

[@badassturnip8039]

I would love to know where you guys found the reels of webbing. what a great idea. Low profile and easy to store away. Do you know what the breaking strain is?

[@svfairisle]

One was already on the boat, the other is from Ultra Marine called UltraLine. It’s dynema so very strong, have a look at the Ultra Marine website

[@wellcraft19]

You can also look for "Ankarolina", a Swedish system that has been out for decades. The name is BTW a mix of "Ankare" (Anchor), "Karolina" (Caroline), "Lina" (Line or cord). I think essentially every vessel sailing in Scandinavia has a reel of Ankarolina by the stern (as stern anchoring is the most common practice in those waters).

[@ykdickybill]

Jaques Cousteau inspired me to take up scuba-diving years ago !

[@judyaslett2]

Love him!

[@lewiscowden9731]

Croatia is a magical city. My wife and I were there on the Independence of the seas. We had a fantastic couple of days and we got to walk right round the city on top of the walls before they started to charge a lot for the pleasure. I absolutely love your videos. It's almost like a holiday program wish you were here. And I can't get over the clarity colour and how sharp Stevens filming is. Both of you are true professionals at your jobs. 👌👌🌹👏👏

[@adventuresofgwennel]

From my Croatian brother in law it is margarine, very good margarine ☺️

[@svfairisle]

Thanks, I thought it was

[@Captain-Paul]

Love following your Itinerary - Two questions if I may, firstly I assume your boat was in the EU on 31/12/20 so any plans to return to the UK to claim VAT RGR or are you not concerned? Se only has a UK flagged boat travelling around the EU when you check into EU countries how to they check the EU Tax Paid status of your boat?

[@svfairisle]

It would be nice to think we could sail around the world & back to our home country, but if by that stage they still want to charge us for our own boat we certainly won’t! The UK’s a bit cold for us now anyway! No ones ever checked our VAT paid status to my knowledge. We have the form on the boat of course but never taken it out of the folder

[@sailingoctopus1]

When did anchorages become anchor spots?

[@sailingmarie7097]

No no no, Cousteau still has to be cool, otherwise it’s showing my age too!!! 🤣

[@TheTomt50]

Sorry to hear about the difficulties in Croatia. I am looking forward to your next video to learn more about it.

[@svfairisle]

We filmed the whole incident as soon as we realised we were dealing with corrupt officials. We currently have had a response from the ministry for tourism at least who have confirmed the 'fine' was made up. Will be interesting to find out if they do anything about it and if they reimburse the money, will all be in the next episode.

[@Outrageousconduct]

@@svfairisle how much were you fined ?

[@svfairisle]

@@Outrageousconduct It was 800kuna which is just over £100 so not massive but that not the point it’s pure corruption & should be stopped

[@Outrageousconduct]

@@svfairisle absolutely it should be stopped ,love Montenegro enjoy yourselves

[@driesdejager4049]

even though i did give you a like - good show

[@brianbell2550]

Been to Dubrovnik many times since 2009, but not for four years now. We stay in Cavtat, and my wife and I always said we should enjoy it before it gets spoiled. Started changing after joining EU in 2013, slowly at first, then as younger generations took over holiday let's etc, I think golden goose syndrome started to take effect. Shame, because we often have 'Ankora' moments, as we call them, when we just suddenly imagine ourselves back there on the waterfront gazing at the yachts, and watching the world go by. Never really had any bother with rip-offs, the people can seem a bit aloof at times, especially around busy places, but we built up some good relationships over the years, and some have made a point of remembering us as regulars. But like Greece or anywhere else you may choose to go, everyone tends to be nice to you when you are spending money with them. A bit cynical I know, but a good rule of thumb. PS, COME ON ENGLAND!

[@garyfroeschner2523]

Great video

[@danielfowler9432]

Hi guy’s from Australia, loved this EP, have you ever had your whole family on the boat yet for a Holiday.

[@svfairisle]

Yes, ep7 in Cartagena, sadly Covid happened straight after that so it’s been very difficult

[@ProjectManaia]

So djd they try to get you for the tourist tax that has to be paid online? Since that is what we got as well but never printed the page 😱

[@svfairisle]

No the tourist tax was all paid & we had all the receipts. Truth is it does't really matter what you have, we've heard back from the ministry of tourism, they've confirmed we had paid exactly the right amount this is a quote from their email... 'The additional tourist tax that you state in the e-mail does not exist, nor does the legal article that you mentioned in the e-mail' so they just made it all up!

[@larry9210]

Just scanned through but missed the problem discussion

[@judyaslett2]

At the end. There is more in the next episode

[@TheBeggFamily]

Wow! What a place! We never got there on our Royal Caribbean cruise, just Split which was rather good too.

[@blackduck7851]

Sorry I missed you guys when you were anchored in the lake near Skradin, I would have gladly given you a lift to your car. By the maps you used, you were just outside Vrulje at one point. I was maybe a few hundred yards away in Bilice. (also called Stubalj). As to fresh water. The system from Skradin to Sibenik is a "ria" - a sunken river so essentially the fresh water is at the bottom of a risen sea, that means it's not exactly fresh water at hull depth. Good luck on your ventures south.

[@judyaslett2]

Ah thank you. We enjoyed the dinghy ride anyway

[@gregwheat5117]

The Maritime Museum in Dubrovnik is not to be missed.

[@garywinch843]

If you think Croatia has a rip-off culture, just be grateful that Serbia doesn't have a coastline!

[@jamesl5149]

I didn't know you could tack like that with two foresails, interesting! Thought you'd have to roll it out each time

[@svfairisle]

A true cutter should always be able to do it. It does rely on you having a decent gap between the forestays to work well though.

[@atakd]

It can't do your sail much good, dragging it around the furled staysail. I always roll the genoa to tack my cutter rigged Ovni.

[@svfairisle]

@@atakd Yes that’s a better way for the sail just LOTS more work, possibly we get lazy as full time cruisers, but in my defence we have a big gap between the furlers with our 9foot bowsprit so it’s not such a hard pull through

[@susanolsen9352]

OMGoodness, you were so lucky to have visited the Dalmatian Islands sans the tourists. It was the only way to do it (during the Covid backlash or off-season). If it were not for extenuating circumstances, I'd be an ex-pat in Croatia in a heartbeat. Susu from Oyster Bay, NY, USA

[@markdewey5724]

We were ripped off in Croatia when we arrived it was very late we went to anchor got up in the morning went straight into register and we are told that they were open 24 hours and we should’ve come straight to the office to register and gave us a €500 fine, very upsetting experience never go back

[@svfairisle]

Oh yes that’s a classic one in Croatia, they monitor you on the way out as well so even stopping for fuel is a no no. To be fair to them though those are the rules, it’s just that most other countries are more reasonable. When we checked out of Croatia the first time it was late at night and we asked if we could wait a couple of hours as it was blowing 40 knots, either at the dock or anchored in the bay close to it, they said no just go!

[@franemilicevic5245]

@@svfairisle Why were you going anywhere during night and on top of it with strong wind forecast?

[@franemilicevic5245]

Btw which port did you check out from late at night?

[@svfairisle]

@@franemilicevic5245 because it. Was the tail end of a storm which then had a day of good Easterlies after it followed by 3 days of strong Westerlies so it I was our only window. It’s a 24hr sail from Pula to Venice so I like to leave at night and arrive in daylight, just would have been nice to leave a few hours later & let the storm die down more.

[@shday1]

I am pretty sure the time limit is 48hs, not 24. Sounds like more corruption.

[@linfield01123]

Hi I have just resubscribed to your channel after being inexplicably unsubscribed great video thanks

[@SVBlownAway]

you will enjoy Greece , a breath of fresh air , good anchorages, free town quays or at least cheap, if you get the chance check out an unknown (to sailing) channel called florb - 713k subs ( Dylan) they do a lot of camper van stuff and amazing off grid stuff, but he also has a yacht they did an amazing piece on Dubrovnic and game of thrones, he is very theatrical , check it out , i think you'll enjoy it ... Ian

[@svfairisle]

Yes just had a look, very good, he's really into Game of Thrones!

[@SVBlownAway]

@@svfairisle he is a character 😀

[@davedavids9619]

I understand you are frustrated with what happened, but this instance did not have a lot to do with corruption, it had more to do with the system. If it would be corruption you would get a lone policeman threatening you with a fine, but then he offers a 'lump sum' to let you go. That money goes in his pocket. What happened with you is different and has to do with the fact that policemen are ordered (by their bosses) to go out and come back with X amount of money (through fines) each day. The bosses get their orders from Zagreb (government) and they have to follow the orders.The end result is clear, they will just make it up as they go and basically there is nothing to do against it. I lived in Croatia for 8 years and it is truly a police state, it does not belong in the EU, it has a different idea of freedom and rights than we have. It is pretty normal to get stopped by a policeman who will come up with some bogus fines, which you will then have to pay. Not having a fire extinguisher in a car which is registered to a company can (and will) end up in a fine of 5000 Kuna (and this is 10 years ago), plus they will visit the company address to start searching for more. There is even a law which states the police can enter your house any time they feel like ! No need for a warrant, no probable cause, they can simply enter and fine you for whatever they think is not in order. In order words, don't think this only happens to tourists, it also happens to locals and foreigners who live in the country. I lived there for 8 years, am actually happy to have left the country. Never felt so unfree as in Croatia. The country, the nature, the sea, the scenery is stunning.................it is just a pity the Croatians live there, because their mentality is absolutely horrible. They will try to screw you in whatever way they can find and think of. Don't think it is just me who is saying this, even my wife, who is Croatian fully agrees with me. She only experienced real freedom once she left Croatia. But as long as you know this can (and will happen) to you it is not going to be a surprise. It is sad, but it is reality in this country. And corruption ? Yes, all politicians, judges etc, they are corrupt as hell.

[@svfairisle]

Yes sadly I think that’s a very good appraisal of what’s going on there. You will see in the secret filming we did in the next episode they seemed to have a quota of 5 fines a day. We met some really nice people in Croatia but any sort of officialdom seems to go to their heads.

[@davedavids9619]

@@svfairisle yep, it is sad to see a beautiful country waste their opportunities in this way. Croatia has so much to offer, so much history, so many beautiful places, but sadly enough they have taken bureaucracy (and government corruption) to extreme levels. Hope you still enjoy the beautiful scenery.

[@bestoflife9152]

I also had bad experiences in Croatia, the culture of ripping off tourists is disgusting!

[@mikistjep]

What were your exact experiences? Vast majority of tourist says the exact opposite. If you expected african prices and European service and quality you mightbe somewhat dissapointed in your visit.

[@willisgemutlich2608]

thumbs up!

[@frank1672]

Why no get some SCUBA gear?

[@svfairisle]

I don’t want the hassle of bottles & dive compressors etc. Not in the Med anyway, maybe when we get to the tropics I’ll reconsider that.

[@dominicmacklon7225]

Really enjoy your superb videos. Maybe sometimes you are a bit over critical of other sailors.

[@anthonyslattery8808]

Came across the same thing when I was there in 2016 never going back ,greedy and up them selves not a nice race.

[@paulkelly2882]

Really good that you managed to capture them on film; I’ve heard of this from many people, they are seriously corrupt over there

[@Outrageousconduct]

I've been threw some of the same stuff in Albania Croatia Even Greece you do what u need to do to get the Heck outta there

[@keimolantio]

Level of corruption = level of banana state

[@Kyleinasailing]

I should also mention that Croatia is not an Eastern European country but a Central European country of ex-communist pursuation. Angela Merkel refused to attend the ceremony accepting Croatia into the EU, back in July 2013, because of the well known levels of corrupton in the country. I've been many times there on holiday and on business whilst working in Germany and the people vary between really nice and downright arrogant and unpleasant......like everywhere I suppose. But, first and foremost, they want your money.

[@jumpyX2]

I believe Korcula is pronounced Cor - Choolah

[@gerhardvanwaltsleben8944]

Lekker man lekker

[@judyaslett2]

The video isn’t really out until we hear from you!

[@crismoore6811]

Great video. Too bad they take advantage of tourists.

[@iancampbell3202]

I spent 2weeks sailing in Croatia with 5 other blokes. We we’re mercilessly ripped off in many places. Beautiful place awful people. Never to return under any circumstances.

[@billhanna8838]

Post card view around every corner .

[@Caleidus]

Lissa - Republic of Venice

[@kenpole1840]

Entertaining and informative. One point, however, as my vegetarian spouse reminds various restaurants: eggs ain't vegetables. Greetings from Canada.

[@judyaslett2]

yes that’s right. I’m not vegan. What is the right word?

[@connannbarbarin3033]

eggs are vegetarian

[@mariozvan9782]

And yet, in the previous episode, another Croatian official offered you vaccines although under no obligation to vaccinate tourists. Goes to show that it depends on who you stumble on, so a bit unfair to judge the whole country on a single incident. Milions of people visit Croatia each year and do not have similar experiences.

[@judyaslett2]

Yes we report everything. The doctor was extremely generous and we said so. The police acted illegally and issued a false fine which has now been confirmed as illegal by he Ministry of Tourism. We say that too. We have asked the Ministry for the Interior for our money back.

[@svfairisle]

Also we would never judge on the actions of one person, as you rightly say that would be unfair and could happen anywhere. Truth is of the 2 check ins and 2 check out experiences we’ve had in Croatia, this year and last, 3 have been very unpleasant experiences, one was good and we referred the her as the ‘lovely check in police woman’ 3 times in that video I think. The situation in Croatia is out of control and we would be doing a massive disservice to our viewers if we turned a blind eye to this level of harassment and corruption.

[@mariozvan9782]

@@svfairisle Interesting and thanks for clarifying. We moved to Croatia in 2015 and whilst my work brings me in contact with the police fairly regularly, it has always been above board. The biggest issue in Croatia is the bureaucracy, but overall the quality of life is very high. I have not noticed this scam in the local media, so may be worth reporting, as they are always on the hunt for corruption stories. There is an English language online newspaper called Total Croatia News run by an Englishman on Hvar, presumably he would have encountered this story, but would be good to alert him.

[@svfairisle]

@@mariozvan9782 thanks Mario, we will see if we can contact him, the point of reporting these things is to hopefully put a stop to them

[@markchodroff250]

With all do,respect, why don’t your people get a washing machine /dryer ?? I think not only the money you spend plus dragging all the Laundry off the boat to,shore and then find a suitable laundry mat ? After all you have a water maker now !

[@svfairisle]

Lack of space and a deficit of power and therefore water really. If we ever end up with an excess of power we may try to organise a space

[@chuckduzzie8529]

🤔😕

[@matjam8305]

Easy way to pick up a mooring ball is go past it against the current/wind and pick it up at the stern and get a line through it then as the current/wind pushes you back walk the line up to the bow. Shame the nonsense there and one of the reasons I will most likely not visit with boat.

[@josephsellarslesacelier2742]

i m interested in old crusadr castles in holy land israel = i visited ther in summr of 68 but had no michelin tour guides or intrnet = th archeology ther like in jerusalem is fantastic goin back to noah s son jaffa 4k yrs ago = montenegro croatia is boring

[@timexironman100m]

How come your so pale ? Being at sea thought you be golden sea tanned

[@svfairisle]

We’re Brits, that’s as brown as it gets!

[@ozlakota1]

DONT HAVE TIME wtf

[@jayerjavec]

Welcome to Balkans!

[@SailingABSea]

You guys will think you've died and gone to heaven when you get to Turkey. Cheers.

[@svfairisle]

Ha! Yes I’m sure you’re right, Montenegro’s pretty damned good though!

[@Kyleinasailing]

Keep away from Croatia with a boat......its a minefield. Park the boat in Montenegro and take the bus if you want to see the Venetian splendours of Croatia.

[@svfairisle]

Would agree with that. In Montenegro now, it's magnificent.

[@susanolsen9352]

Best way to see the Dalmatian Coast is on a charter boat like "Capricorn 1", 88 ft motor sailer. Forget the mega-yachts or Beneteau's, approx $32K US will get you one week with 8-10 guests, and the most phenomenal crew, menu, amenities ... pristine, intimate, boutique-on-the-water style sailboat. Choose your own ports, if you wish. Magical experience. We chartered her in early Fall 2019 and I'd do it again in a hearbeat.

[@Matchlockman]

I’ve been sailing in Croatia since 2007 and only once experienced over exuberance by an official. I was polite and light hearted about and she let me off, which was just as well because she was wrong. It never pays you get hot headed with any Eastern European official. Croatia is so beautiful it’s worth the aggravation - if any. I agree that Montenegro is beautiful but sailing is restricted compared to its neighbour

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

As opposed to the actual minefields :)

[@driesdejager4049]

Game of thrones? thought you had more savy to watch crap like that???

[@svfairisle]

One of the best filmed series of all time, even if the story line was a bit flawed

[@MaShcode]

Imho, some of those ancient towns, while romantic, look a little too clean. Ultranationalism is once again bubbling up in Croatia not that it ever really left. The country is still deeply divided over it’s past and I’m sure some of the local police take a dim view of foreigners and treat them as an easy mark.

[@svfairisle]

Actually we were just talking about this with locals here today and I think that of all the conflict ridden places in the world the Balkans has recovered very well especially as it was so recent. I don’t think the Croatian attitude to fleecing tourists is in any way connected.

[@MaShcode]

@@svfairisle Interesting, the US media narrative, at least as it relates to Croatia, the Serbs and the wider region sees these governments coddling authoritarian ultranationalist factions.

[@EfferusZangetsu]

@@MaShcode Ah, the US media narrative. You would do well to steer well clear of US media. I am amazed how most Americans are still blind to how much propaganda they are being fed on a daily basis. One would think they would learn by now...

[@MaShcode]

@@EfferusZangetsu Just finished the book voices of the sea. The dolphin news network is generally accurate but does suffer from the constant food chain sustainability stories forcing one to branch out onto other feeds. Orca’s have always been broadsheet but among whales Humpbacks are probably the most balanced. Right whales are never. ;)

[@MaShcode]

@@EfferusZangetsu Some Americans. Politics is local here. In our esteemed Northeastern US bubble the breadth of information is like the streets and tunnels: congested.

[@boatbuilderPortishead]

really? falling into the trap of photographing women in bikinis to get your rating up! Thought you were a sailing channel....

[@svfairisle]

Women wear bikinis on a boat in 90 degree heat, it’s just the way it is