The arrival of Zvone and Slobodan was a long-awaited reunion! Nearly two months had passed since Dalibor, our last crew member, departed in Athens. The island of Gran Canaria became our playground as we explored hidden coves,savored delicious meals, and reveled in good company.
Zvone, a man of many talents, possesses a magical touch with the guitar. Discovering an instrument hidden within the cabin sparked pure joy. He wasted no time uncorking a bottle of wine and stepping outside, the marina becoming his stage. As the golden light washed over the harbor in the early evening, Zvone’s melodies filled the air. Passersby couldn’t resist the charm of his music, their enthusiastic applause echoing a heartfelt “Bravo! Enjoy!”
While Zvone captivated us with his music, Slobodan emerged as the resident wine and spirits connoisseur. His enthusiasm for discovering local vintages ensured our evenings were well-lubricated (in the best way possible) as we celebrated our time together.
The atmosphere was pure magic – a melody woven from friendship, the gentle sway of the boat, and the vibrant spirit of Gran Canaria. As night gently descended, the spirit of the evening mellowed. The alcohol took its pleasant toll, and tiredness set in, including for Zvone who needed his rest. Yet, for us and the entire dock, it was an unforgettable night.Damjan even managed to snag some invaluable beginner’s tips and practice lessons from Zvone, a perfect way to prepare for the long Atlantic crossing.
One day, fueled by Zvone’s desire to see a historic town on the opposite side of the island, we embarked on an expedition.The landscape offered a stark contrast to the sun-drenched beaches we had grown accustomed to. High cliffs rose to meet a strong wind, and the wild sea roared along the coastline. Driving across the interior, the landscape transformed into a bizarre spectacle – a vast stone desert in a dark brown hue, devoid of trees or any visible vegetation. It felt almost lunar, a landscape that sparked both awe and amusement (though we admit, our knowledge of the moon’s actual appearance is limited!).
Our exploration also included some delightful culinary experiences. One of the highlights was a visit to Guantánamo, a fantastic restaurant in Playa del Tauro. We reveled in delicious meals and shared stories for several days before Zvone and Slobodan had to bid farewell and return to Switzerland.
With their departure, a sense of purpose settled over us. We dedicated the following days to final preparations. Now, with just 48 hours remaining, anticipation simmers as we prepare to set sail for a new continent. The vast expanse of the Atlantic awaits!