The first day on Croatian soil is always special. Split is a wonderful city; its historic center was designated a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It is well worth a visit if you have time today; if not, save it for the return. Check-in takes place at five in the afternoon, so it is best to be in the area a few hours earlier. Between completing the paperwork at the marina, carrying out check-in, doing the shopping, and settling the crew on board, you will not have much time before nightfall for a long passage, so we suggest setting a course for Milna on the island of Brač and anchoring in the deep bay of the same name.

If you feel like it and would like to enjoy an excursion around the island (you should book a local taxi in advance), there are several places worth seeing, such as the Olive Oil Museum in Škrip or tasting local wines in Nerežišća. During our visit, we had lunch on a beautiful terrace (Vina Senjković). However, in both cases, it is best to check availability in advance or even whether they are still open. If you prefer enjoying the sea, one of the most famous beaches in Croatia is on Brač: the Golden Horn Beach, near Bol. That said, if you anchor in any of the island’s magnificent coves, you cannot go wrong. One last curiosity: the White House in Washington and the Diocletian’s Palace in Split were built with stone quarried on the island. Set a course for Stari Grad, on the neighboring island of Hvar, to spend the night.

If you are culturally curious, you can visit Tvrdalj Castle right in Stari Grad, the summer residence of the famous Croatian writer Petar Hektorović. We loved it. A walk along the seafront promenade that circles the bay is also a fantastic way to stretch your legs. Set course for the island’s namesake town, Hvar. It is a lively city, both by day and by night. Explore the town—it is beautiful—and stop at any konoba (local restaurant) to taste authentic Dalmatian cuisine. A very popular spot is the famous Carpe Diem club, one of the coast’s best-known nightlife venues, located on one of the small islets off Hvar. Anchor in any bay within this group of islands; they are all spectacular.

After the buzz of Hvar, head toward the island of Korčula. The passage is a bit long, so halfway there, if you feel like a stop, you can visit one of the magnificent coves on the island of Šćedro. According to legend, Marco Polo was born in the town of Korčula on the island’s eastern side, although there is no evidence to prove it. Its old town is well worth seeing, and in July and August you will likely be able to enjoy some of the performances scheduled during the Festival of Chivalric Games. Opposite the town lies the small island of Badija, where you can visit ancient Roman stone quarries. It is a good place to anchor and spend a quiet night, weather permitting.

Once again you have a long passage to Vis, but it is worth it. To make the most of the day, we suggest setting off as early as possible and even having breakfast under way. Unlike Hvar, in Vis you will not find crowds, but peace and quiet. Near the town of Vis there is a place we visited and loved: on Rogačić Beach there is a tunnel built as a naval shelter by the Yugoslav army. You can anchor right off the beach to visit it, or hike from Vis (about 10 kilometres). Rent a scooter to tour the island: follow the Wine Route or visit its thermal baths and Roman forum, or the coastal town of Komiža. And if the weather cooperates, a must-see is the Blue Cave on the small neighbouring island of Biševo. Its name comes from the bluish hue created when sunlight reflects on the water inside the grotto. The spectacle is unique!

With your course now set back toward Split, make one last stop on the island of Šolta. Where should you anchor? It will depend on the wind. You will need to look for the spot that is best sheltered from it. As throughout Croatia, every cove is beautiful. To the west, Maslinica and the small islets just offshore; to the north, Nečujam or Stomorska, the liveliest places on the island; to the southeast, Stracinska Bay; or to the south, Tatinja Cove, where you will find a quieter atmosphere. In short, there are plenty of options to choose from.

From Šolta to Split it is about two to three hours of sailing. Keep this in mind when planning your day, since you must be back at the marina by five in the afternoon and complete the check-out of your rental boat. If you have not been able to visit the city yet, today is a great day to do so and enjoy a typical Dalmatian dinner in a konoba.

Today you must disembark at nine in the morning. If you have time before taking your flight home, it is worth strolling around the harbor and visiting the city center, or walking through Marjan Park. You could even relax on the beach near the harbor, Bačvice, which was our choice on our most recent visit to Split. We look forward to your next trip to Croatia, because the Dalmatian coast still has many islands waiting to be explored.