The art of sailing, food and Palmizana

by croatiaweek
February 15, 2021
in Travel

(Photo credit: Ivan Ivanisevic)

by Sasha King
www.highpointyachting.com

It’s 20 years since I started organizing yacht charters and regattas on the Mediterranean and in the Caribbean. The business was born of—and continues to sustain—my great love for sailing and deep knowledge of these beautiful seas, their coasts and islands and all the wonderful things that go along with a good sailing trip. I have travelled the world, seen its great beauty, tasted delicious food and glorious wines and have loved it all.

But, after all this time and all this travel on the high seas, the first in my affections is my birthplace, Croatia. It is not because it is my place. It’s just that Croatia has it all: the coastline, the islands with their beautiful old towns and incredible architecture, the mesmerising bays, delicious food, glorious wine, fantastic yachts and, my favourite spot of all, the paradisiacal Palmizana.

I enjoy creating trips for the others as much as I enjoy going on them myself. I have a dream job—quite literally. Sailing around the Dalmatian island means constantly enjoying new views, new scenery, and different experiences. The Sailing Yacht SAN LIMI is the ideal yacht in which to take such a trip. It is, as our clients say, “simply spectacular!”

When anyone talks about SAN LIMI, it always sounds like a love song. This yacht has a great and unmissable good-time vibe. It’s something about her infectious energy, the destinations she goes to, the feasts she can put on, the laughs that echo round her deck, her charming crew. She is the dream I dream of!

(Photo credit: Ivan Ivanisevic)

The space on the yacht is vast, both in her interior and outside. The flybridge area offers a 360-degree panoramic view and is fitted with great deck furniture and a Jacuzzi. There are two dining areas, one just outside the salon and one inside. The interior is full of light and beautifully furnished.

(Photo credit: Ivan Ivanisevic)

The Master cabin is completely separate from the rest of the cabins and occupies the full width of the yacht. Its bathroom comes with a full size bath and shower. There is a walk-in closet, too. There are three more guest cabins, a VIP, double and a twin cabin that is convertible into a double. All the cabins are en-suite. SAN LIMI can accommodate up to eight guests.

(Photo credit: Ivan Ivanisevic)

This yacht has come a long way since her original refit in 2018. The owner has turned this spacious vessel into a stylish and beautifully decorated yacht, with a great atmosphere and a wonderful and accommodating local crew. She mostly sails out of Split or Dubrovnik, covering the Dalmatian islands.

(Photo credit: Ivan Ivanisevic)

The captain and I talk about charter itineraries for our clients. All groups have their own particular wishes and so, it’s never a question of repeating the same trip twice. Like all our lives, everyone’s journey is different.

There is a lot to see and experience in Dalmatia, but no trip for me feels complete without putting in at Palmizana to spend some time in the bay and have a meal. For me, it is a must when sailing around Dalmatian islands and we could not recommend it more highly.

Palmizana (Photo credit: Ivo Pervan)

Palmizana is on St Clement Island, opposite the harbour of Hvar in Croatia. It’s a very special place, with perfect anchorages in beautiful bays. The pine woods are full of beautiful and exotic plants, gathered here by the owners to create a botanical garden. But it maintains its wild feel.

The place is a real gem. It is also an art gallery as well as a foodie’s paradise, filled with delightful aromas, a smorgasbord for the senses.

At the centre of the island is the Meneghello restaurant, set in the woods, overlooking the bay. Here you can enjoy a fantastic meal surrounded by the owners’ collection of modern art. They have been collecting for over half a century. Exhibitions are held regularly in the restaurant and the surrounding area. There is something new to see every time I visit.