Susak

It is the most external and interesting island of Lošinj's archipelagos. Different from the other islands its sandy dunes, sediments created by time on the chalk grounds with the highest one rising up to 98 metres. The first settlement was founded around the St. Nicholas monastery in the 9th century, while Donje selo (Lower village), which is closer to the sea and harbour was created later. Through isolation people have maintained the old language and traditional clothes, especially female, which are unique along the whole coast. People have also strong connection with the islands immigration in America. This sandy island is specific for its swampy parts and terraces covered with vineyards that produce wine with a distinguished bouquet that reminds us of the sea and other exotic smells, which the wind brings.

DRAGOCA (44° 31'N; 14° 18'E), cove in the NE part of the island, the small harbour of the village of Susak (pop. 188 in 1991).

Approach: Landmarks: the Susak lighthouse, the belfry in the vil- lage, the factory chimney in the W part of the cove and the round green tower with a column and gallery (green light) on the break- water. Dragoca is accessible only to smaller vessels (depth 2.5 m). When entering the harbour keep to the middle of the fairway, between the light on the head of the breakwater and the red round buoy marking the E edge of the remains of the old breakwater.

Mooring: The cove is protected from S and W wind; NE wind causes an unpleasant sea, while SE wind whips up a strong chop. Moor on both sides of the pier or along the masonry breakwater. With NE wind and the sirocco leave the moor at the head of the breakwa- ter. Four-point anchoring in the SW part of the cove only offers full safety.

Facilities: Harbour master's branch office, post office, shop and medical service. Limited provisions and water (drinking water should be boiled). Fuel and other shopping in Mali Losinj.

PORAT (44° 31'N; 14° 17'E), cove on the NW coast of Susak.

Mooring: The cove is sheltered from the bora; it is exposed to SW and NW winds and a longer stay is not advisable even in the sum- mer (maestral).

Larger yachts can anchor some 300m off the W coast of the island (depth 3040 m), in line with the lighthouse (elevation 100 m, white flashes, visibility 23 M) on Mt Garba, bearing 210°.