We got to the Split harbor early to pick up our next sailboat, Gala, a 35 foot Beneteau Oceanis 35. Check in was a breeze and they had our boat cleaned and ready to go by 1:00.

The yacht manager who briefed us on the boat, Ivan, suggested an itinerary is off we set to our first harbor in Stari Grad, a quintessential historic Croatian sea village.

To call Stari Grad charming is an understatement. We docked on the quay with a view out to traditional limestone buildings, hanging gardens and a busy promenade filled with shops, restaurants and bars.

Our choice for dinner was perfect. A super cute seafood restaurant with a great selection of local wines. We had octopus salad, the fish plate for two which was amazing, and irish coffees and ice cream for dessert.

This morning we walked around the harbor and had lunch before setting sail to our next destination, a quiet cove a short sail away. There are hundreds of such spots along the island of Hvar and its neighboring islands. We’ll know it when we see it.

The winds are perfect and we’re off. Ahoy!