A few margaritas agrees with you, you sound good and content. Ah, life on the ocean. I am a tiny bit jealous (OK, more than a tiny bit!)
I think non-confrontational contact with your H is great. It does not have to be earth shattering, but if he feels comfortable contacting you - for whatever reason - I think that is good progress. Certainly a step forward from when he was not contacting you.
Your friends are being friendly because they know how tough this is. They may not know exactly how it feels, but I don't have to cut a finger off to know it hurts, right?
Now, have a few more drinks - make sure your sunscreen is reapplied and ENJOY yourself!!
