Setting sail on the next chapter

Today, in my mind, was officially the first day of the next chapter. We are sailing! 
 

Less than two hours into our first sail with all crew on board and we were treated to a warm welcome dance on our bow by a pod of three local dolphins! They were massive, sleek mammals and we could hardly believe our luck. Mesmerized for the first few minutes, but I managed to grab my camera in time for one successful photo. Unfortunately Mike was not quick enough to recover the buried Go Pro from our downstairs cabin. We'll have to keep the Go Pro camera in closer reach for future opportunities – plus buy a pole accessory for some possible underwater angles perhaps?

The boat went back in the water on Wednesday afternoon after twelve days on the hardstand due to half that time lost with weather delays. Already well stocked as we’d shopped up a storm and moved everything on board during those twelve days; she immediately feels like home. For anyone who was concerned, we certainly aren’t roughing it. Being a catamaran we have a hull each which provides some personal space, there are three cabins and three bathrooms, a flat screen TV (xbox enroute in the shipping container), stereo system including external speakers, two fridges, deep freezer, gas stove and oven, microwave, pressure cooker, fruit juicer (also enroute), clothes washing machine, dishwasher (though we plan to remove for more pantry space), water maker, internal heating and air conditioning, a dive tank fill compressor and last but not least an ice maker! Some purest mono hull sailors would apparently scoff at the luxury, but we are here to cruise the Mediterranean at a leisurely pace. Might as well do so with some creature comforts. 

Sailing today with a light breeze was a relaxed 5-7 knots with both main and foresail up. Mellow compared to the previous day when the guys reached 10-12 knots in stronger northerly winds travelling from Murter to Sibenik (whilst mum and I drove the rental car down to be returned). Today we sailed (and then motored when the wind dropped right off) about 30 km south down the coast from Sibenik to a protected bay alongside Vinisce, another sleepy Croatian village. Mum has claimed her position on the starboard bow seat - similar to what she enjoyed on our Fiji ladies sailing day - just with plenty of extra layers of clothes at present! From here she had the perfect vantage point to first spot the friendly dolphins. No sign of a queasy belly from mum today so we are off to a good start. 

Catamarans are pretty easy to sail I'm told, but there is still lots to understand about the boat's sails, rigging, maneuverability and workings of the equipment on board. Although dad has never owned a sailboat as such, he has saltwater running through his veins and constantly impresses me with his endless wealth of knowledge. Mike having taken a two-day crash sailing course in Sydney is taking to it like a fish to water and will be a highly capable first mate. Together they are constantly troubleshooting as they familiarize with the mechanics of the boat, equipment and electronics. Including working through and re-labelling wiring diagrams, switches and valves that were all marked in German. I am quietly proud of my hubby and confident dad is grateful for his support. Soon enough Mike should be deserving of that anchor tattoo he’s long been talking about adding to his collection.  

I know there will be many uncomfortable weather days to come – but today was the first day I felt a total sense of calm and relaxation. This is what we came for. And Dad still can’t wipe the smile off his face.

BELOW: a glimpse of gorgeous Split - we look forward to returning soon!

One last look over Murter and Betina where we have spent the last two weeks - sweeping views from the local church perched high on the hill.   

Mike finally found himself a folding bike - handy transport when docking in a new village. Now just to locate a second for me ...

Our cozy new abode - port side stern cabin.

Looking smart and ready to get wet!

Final feast of mouthwatering 'steak and mushrooms' at our favourite Kezo Restaurant.

 And we are off!

 We gave mum one rope to look after ...

 ... quickly followed by four others that all starting running at the same time as we hoisted the main sail - hilarity ensued.

Whilst I tap away at the blog.. the others have hit the sack at 7:00 pm. "I've never been to bed this early before.." said mum as she disappeared downstairs with her book. This made me smile... and I've no doubt it won't be the last super early night.