From Marstal, we set course for Nyborg—one of Denmark’s oldest towns. We leave Marstal at six in the morning, initially winding our way through the buoyed channels between the many shoals: first across Marstal Bugt, then through the Langeland Belt, sharing the narrow waters with ferries, cargo ships and other traffic. At Rudkøbing, we pass beneath the Langeland Bridge, and then the best part of the day begins: perfect sailing conditions, sunshine and a steady breeze. Blue Layla settles onto her favourite point of sail and rewards us with a magnificent performance.

By midday, we reach Nyborg on the western side of the Great Belt Bridge. We immediately take a liking to the place: a sheltered berth, a charming town and a noticeably more relaxed atmosphere than the crowded harbour of Marstal. Nyborg Castle, dating back to around 1170, is considered the oldest royal castle in Scandinavia. During the Middle Ages, it was the meeting place of the Danehof, the assembly of the Danish nobility and at the same time the highest court of the realm. Also well worth a visit is the Church of Our Lady, dating from 1388, which later played an important role during the Reformation (below).