In Lofoten this time of the year that means full winter and lots of snow. One week after arrival the sun didn`t make it over the horizon anymore but during the hour of twilight Lofoten fully dressed in snow is beautiful.

This year has been so intense but very rewarding. From a cruising perspective we both enjoyed Italy most with the Pontine Islands and the Aeolian Islands on top.

Greece was a bit of a disappointment from the beginning since we initially cruised in high season (June,July,August). That meant crowded villages,remarkable heat,and a stronger Meltemi than usual (strong northerly winds). We also found Greece more bureaucratic than elsewhere cruising in the EU. The Tepai which is due monthly (boattax) is a problem since the system for paying online is far to complicated and a coastguard that regularly do inspections and cause problems is to be avoided.

Things improved though once high season was over and the last part in Greece was great joy (September to November).

Our mutual favourites among the islands were Amorgos,Astepalea, and Milos. Mercedes liked Santorini very much and my favourite was Kastelorizo.

The major happening this year though was our marriage in May !

Now we spend christmas and new year in the summerhouse of Mercedes just by the sea outside the village of Ares in Galicia.

Plans for 2024 are still evolving but I need to be back in Valetta for haul out and propellershaft repair mid January. Then we will take it from there....