Croatia: Sail & Swim

Start your adventure in sun-drenched Split, where you’ll meet your new travel crew over a relaxed group lunch – the perfect way to break the ice and ease into holiday mode. Once we’re fed and ready, it’s anchors up as we cruise towards dazzling Hvar, complete with a refreshing swim stop en route. Because let’s face it – you’re in Croatia, and the water’s too tempting to resist. 

When we arrive, we’ll stretch our sea legs with a gentle uphill walk (just half an hour, we swear) to the island’s historic fortress. You can opt to head inside, but even just the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort – think rooftops, coastline, and open sea. 

After snapping your fill, we’ll meander back down into Hvar town for a short orientation stroll with your Trip Leader, before wrapping things up with a taste of the island’s iconic lavender ice cream. Spoiler: it’s every bit as delicious as it sounds. 

Rise and shine, sailors! Or take it easy and sleep in – your call. Today’s all about refreshing swims (and the occasional splashy belly flop), plus delicious meals prepared by our on-board chef.  

Later, we’ll head to the supposed home of (supposed) Marco Polo, known for its dry Croatian wine and pine-covered hills. We’ll explore the cobblestone streets on a quick orientation tour, then the afternoon is yours. Fancy a bit of adrenaline? Hop on an optional Buggy Safari tour and zip through Korčula’s rugged backroads and scenic vineyards in a two-seater.  Prefer something slower? Climb Massimo’s tower for a colourful cocktail with a view, or settle in for peka – a slow-cooked local specialty (just don’t forget to pre-order). Tonight, there’s an optional BBQ on the boat. Dig in! 

What’s the plan this morning? A dip before breakfast? A lazy sunbathe on deck? We’ll set sail for Trstenik, where you can choose your own adventure – sip your way through a local wine tasting (optional, but highly recommended), or head straight for a swim at one of the nearby beaches. 

This afternoon, it’s on to the jewel of the Adriatic: Dubrovnik. We’ll step back in time on a guided walking tour through the iconic Old Town – then the evening’s yours. Sunset cocktails on the city walls? A quiet stroll down marble laneways? Or just getting lost (in the best way) beneath those terracotta rooftops. 

Don’t be fooled – Dubrovnik is more than just snapping a selfie on some steps. Fancy diving into the world of Game of Thrones? There’s an optional Cersei-inspired walking tour for that.  

Spend the afternoon walking the ancient city walls or hop in the cable car for sweeping views from Mt Srđ. Or, if you’re up for a little offshore adventure, join an optional trip to Lokrum Island – just a short ferry ride away. Think pine forests, rocky swimming spots, a saltwater lake, and even a few resident peacocks strutting about like they own the place. 

Shake off yesterday with another stunning swim stop. Today, we’re heading to Mljet – a special place despite the tricky spelling. Once we arrive, it’s time to explore the National Park your way.  

Rent a bike and cruise around, take a boat to the Islet Melita to see the monastery, or simply find a quiet spot to soak it all in. Tonight, there’s an optional Captain’s dinner aboard the boat – who’s in?

Land ahoy! Time to set a course for the Makarska Riviera, one of the best unsung holiday spots in Europe. Score a spot at the front of the boat for the ride in – the view is a breathtaking panorama of rugged limestone cliffs tumbling into crystal-clear turquoise waters, dotted with lush pine forests and charming whitewashed villages  

Then, this afternoon is totally up to you. Take a stroll along the pretty promenade. Unleash your inner thrill-seeker with a side of adrenaline-pumping water sports. Lounge about on the pebbly beach. Or sip on a cold beer at one of the beachfront bars.  

Your Trip Leader is on hand for some dinner recommendations –  the seafood here is excellent. Tonight, prepare to party pirate-style at Deep (think: cave club).  

Start the day with a bit of zen – we’re rolling out the yoga mats for a morning class on deck (saluting the sun has never looked so scenic). If you're feeling bold, go from chill to thrill – guests booked on the optional zip line experience will head off early to soar through the dramatic Cetina Canyon before rejoining the group later. 

The boat will cruise on with a swim stop en route to Omiš, where there’ll be free time to explore or grab a bite before we pick up our zipliners and continue on to Split. 

We’ll dock early afternoon, giving you plenty of time to get your bearings. Join an optional walking tour of Split’s Old Town – think Roman ruins, marble alleyways, and a palace fit for an emperor – or skip the history and soak up your final evening in Croatia with your boat crew. Aperol, anyone? 

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers (cue the sad goodbyes). Don’t forget to swap contact info – you’ll want it for next year’s reunion.  

And who says the adventure has to stop here? Slovenia and Montenegro are just around the corner...