5
So good to be back on the water again
Jonathan
Jun 2022
Myself and three friends plan an annual sailing trip, and after a two-year restriction, we were all keen to get back out on the water again - I arranged as the skipper of our bareboat charter each year.
From the moment we landed at Split Airport, 9.30 AM, ie the transport to Marina Frapa (arranged by the local charter operator), all went very well, We were met by our pre-arranged transport to Marina Frapa and after a 35-minute journey, we were at base office, eager to see if we could get on board earlier than the official check-in and handover time. To our surprise the yacht was ready, Dufour 460 Grand Large.. The shore team was very friendly and helpful. A shortish walk down to Pontoon 8 and we were on board. The facilities ashore were very good, clean, and functional, and with a restaurant opposite the pontoon, We were checked in very thoroughly and professionally. We had previously chartered an exact similar Dufour 460 GL from another marina before, so were familiar with its layout. What more could we ask for to fuel up with a hearty lunch at the pizza restaurant and a few beers before setting off out of the harbour.
Extracting ourselves from the pontoon had one or two challenges as there wasn't a lot of space to manoeuver a 46ft yacht out from all the other stern to yachts, suffice to say all went well.
The rest of the holiday went without a hitch, allowing us to visit new islands, fantastic restaurants, and quiet anchorages.. As one particular evening springs to mind, I would highly recommend Otok Levrnaka, and specifically, a fabulous little restaurant called "Konoba Levrnaka".. You will need to ring and book in advance, especially in the high season as pontoon mooring space will run out, The berth is included if you eat at the restaurant - and to be honest, why would you, as it is simply stunning as is the food and so fresh!. Made all the more special when the restaurant owner and chef (dressed in chef whites) are welcoming you in from the pontoon to take your lines ashore. Two waiters both called Goran so we decided to rename them "Goran 1" and "Goran 2" who were very attentive and professional and quite a laugh too. .
Anyway, after more exploration of the islands, the Salt Lake in the National Park (Oh, and by the way, make sure you have the correct National Park ticket! ), Zut, Piskera, Tkon, and Stupica.
Returning back to base we weren't the first yacht back, and again the same member at the base checked us back out. super efficiently. Then another team member took us across the old town across the harbour water in their rib.
Great week-long holiday and what a super-efficient, friendly, and well-run team at the base - well-maintained yachts and I do have to mention @theglobesailor you did me proud again. !!
Thanks and see you next year.!!
