Croatian Islands

Hi All!

Today is a special day; it’s Zaq’s birthday! Extremely happy to be celebrating it together in Croatia.

In celebration we chartered a boat to take us around the Islands of Croatia for the day. Mario was our skipper and he was awesome at navigating the waters like a pro. He zipped us straight to the furthest Island, Vis.

Here we visited the famous Blue Cave, which Mario said is always better in the morning light. It definitely was spectacular!

We entered through an arch way that I honestly didn’t think we would make. I guess the key is to duck your head and get as flat as possible in the boat. Geez, it was a tight fit, but once you’re in, wow!

(The entry way we had to boat through to get into the Blue Cave)

The water is under lit by the sun and is such a vivid light sapphire.

(No filter, I’m not joking)

We sat in the cave for a few minutes enjoying the sparkling water before the waves became a little choppy, so we made our exit.

Once back out safely, we navigated to Komiža, a town on Vis.

We anchored and after Zaq sat by the water and had his first birthday cocktail, we walked around for an hour or so exploring the place, soaking in the beautiful day.

There were lots of cats too, it seems to be a theme in Croatia, so I’m running with it and adding them for you to see.

In particular we found this little kitten wandering around looking for food scraps. Zaq and I discussed stopping by the grocery store for some cans of cat food that we can carry in our packs. Because honestly these cats belong to no one, they are all wild.

Once we were back on the water, Mario took us to view some really cool caves that are forming due to ocean waves, but not quite big enough to go in. They were really interesting to see how overtime the sea has shaped the land.

(These are called The Legs by locals)

Wanting to cool off we pulled over on a rock beach and went for a dip in the warm shallow waters. It was refreshing and salty.

Maybe it’s just us, but Zaq and I think the Mediterranean Sea is saltier than the Pacific. After we would swim or get some spray from the boat, We’d wipe our face and salt granules would come off visibly.

We sunbathed to dry off a bit before hopping back on the boat. Then we made our way to Hvar to stop and have a late lunch then explore.

Just pulling into the Hvar harbor I knew a couple hours would be too short, the town is gorgeous!

We quickly found a great spot to eat near the main court that had a side view of the harbor. Zaq and I shared a tuna salad and each got our own entree’s. Zaq tried the prawn pasta with pistachio pesto & sun-dried tomatoes and I tried the prawn and leek risotto – both were delicious!

Bellies full, we wandered around and up through the streets.

Eventually we reached the path leading up to Fortica, a fortress that looms high over Hvar. Which is an ancient Illyrian settlement dating before 500BC. When you reach the top you can see the whole view of Hvar and it’s harbor.

(View from Fortica)

(Part of the fortress)

Knowing we should head back toward Split since it was getting late, we met Mario back in the harbor.

As we were leaving he said the winds picked up and it would be a choppy hour ride back, he gave us jackets that would help keep us warm and dry since the spray from the waters might be significant. Um. Ok, not gonna lie, I was a little nervous. Zaq was thrilled!

As soon as we were out of the harbor of Hvar, sure enough we were greeted by some pretty big swells. At one point Mario mentioned he was impressed, some were 3 meters high. I was not impressed and was gripping on for dear life, I looked over at Zaq for comfort (who was definitely nervous now.) The waves approaching the boat many times were at eye level. It was slow going as we battled the choppy water back to Split, but like I stated outright, Mario is an expert at navigating the waters and returned us safely to the Matejuška Pier in Split harbor.

We gave our many thanks for an amazing day and adventure to Mario, then parted ways. Zaq and I being the wet salty dogs of the Mediterranean Sea, were in desperate need of a fresh water shower. Without delay we made it back to our Airbnb and immediately rinsed.

Feeling clean of all the rhine from the sea, we decided to get some R&R the rest of the evening. We plan to visit Krka National Park tomorrow, so we prepped food and our day packs. Before turning in, I sat and read while Zaq played Mario on his Switch.

Before we go, here are some tips from our travels today.

Tip 1: Although Zaq and I are pretty adventurous, the waters we rode in today might not be for everyone. If you get sea sick or want a more relaxing ride, check the wind conditions along with temperature.

Tip 2: There is a Green Cave you can visit too. Zaq and I didn’t actually go in, but based on local feedback from our Airbnb host and Mario, our skipper. It’s not worth it as much as the Blue Cave. Mainly because the light is more fickle. They also didn’t used to charge for entry. Now it’s 50 Kuna per person (~$8). If you have limited time, local consensus is skip this and do the Blue Cave in the early morning instead.

Tip 3: When boating always bring a dry bag. Zaq and I travel with a small one in case we’ll be near water activities. Ours is just big enough for our valuables, cell phones, wallets, etc.

Until tomorrow!

~A&Z