Sailing the Dalmatian Coast of the Adriatic Adventure

SUNDAY: Port of Split to town of Milna on Brač Island

We will greet you at the port of our private Gulet yacht. After embarkation, you will meet our crew and take a tour around the yacht. Then we will sail towards the island of Brač, near the picturesque town of Milna. After a welcome toast and hors d’oeurves we will visit the town. The crew will take us there on our tender boat.  Milna is a typical fishing harbor with stone houses, narrow streets and a church that dominates the village. We can visit the beautiful Baroque church, dedicated to Our Lady of the Annunciation and we can enjoy works of Venetian artists. The bell tower offers a beautiful view. The town of Milna was also known as “Valle di mille navi”, or “The bay of a thousand boats”. This harbor is surrounded by beautiful bays that offer protection from rough winds and was for centuries a shelter for sailors and their boats. Milna also has a rich shipbuilding tradition and the unique sailboat “bracera” was designed here. Pristine nature that dominates this area, in combination with beautiful beaches and the crystal sea, are for sure the best recipe for our first night on the Adriatic Sea. Upon arrival back at our yacht, a gourmet dinner prepared by by Le Cordon Bleu – Paris Alum Chef Walter Eagleton of Artistic Gourmet Adventures and our yacht chef will be served aboard surrounded only by sounds of the sea. We will spend the night in a beautiful quiet bay on the western side of the island

MONDAY: Town of Milna to the island of Vis

As will be our usual, after breakfast is served in the surroundings of untouched nature, we will sail to our next location – island Vis. Vis owes this title to its remoteness from the mainland, and also to the fact that during the former Yugoslavia it was for many years closed to visitors as a military zone. Because of this isolation it remained protected from human influence more than the other islands. Nature on Vis is more pristine and preserved than elsewhere. Located on the open sea, the waves have shaped the island coast for thousands of years, hitting rocks and cliffs while forming unique beautiful beaches, hidden bays, coves, and caves, inside which you will discover the most thrilling colors of sunshine and the sea. And just after one visit to the Vis you will realize why it is one of the favorite Adriatic destinations, to which many tourists return year after year. Vis has a very rich history as one of the oldest towns in the islands. It was an important Greek colony on the Adriatic and many ruins from Greek and Roman times can still be found on the island, especially on the oldest part of the town of Vis – Gradina. There you can find Greek walls, a necropolis, and a Roman bath and floor mosaics. Also, on the remains of the Roman theatre a Franciscan monastery on peninsula Prirovo was built. The remains can still be found in the basements of the monastery. The most interesting antique artifact, a bronze statue of the head of Greek goddess Artemid can be found in the Archaeological Museum. Town of Vis was created in the past by merging three villages into one, each of which has its own special story and uniqueness. Yet, the most interesting and most inspiring is perhaps Kut, the eastern part of the city, where you can find beautiful Renaissance houses and churches from noble Vis families built in the 16th and 17th centuries. 

Fun Fact: The original Mamma Mia was filmed on the Greek island of Skopelos but this time filmmakers chose Vis to represent the fictional island of Kalokairi.

TUESDAY: island of Vis to town and island of Hvar

Today we will sail to the sunniest island on the Adriatic – Island Hvar. On our way to the town of Hvar on the island with the same name, we will have the possibility to stop for a swim on the most famous and most beautiful beach on the Adriatic – Zlatni Rat (translated: Golden Cape). Locals say that the beach owes its name to the large flocks of fish called common dentex that are directed there by strong currents and whose scales shine like gold in the sunlight. This pebble beach with a unique form of elongated peninsula rotates its tip left or right depending on the direction of wind and currents. This is for sure an unusual phenomenon. Your captain will find a more isolated and relaxing spot for you to spend your first lunch aboard. After anchoring in a beautiful hidden bay, you will have some free time until lunch to enjoy some water sport activities, swim in the clear turquoise waters or just relax in the sun or in shade and enjoy your coffee or read your favorite book. Can you imagine a better way to spend your morning? After you enjoy diverse gastronomic surprises from the boat’s kitchen, you will spend a few more hours in this chill mood. In the late afternoon you will visit the town of Hvar, one of the most popular locations on the Adriatic. When arriving at Hvar from the sea you will be amazed by the waterfront with palm trees, the bell tower of the cathedral and on the top of the hill – a fortress that was protecting the town in the past. At the first moment you step foot in this lovely town you will instantly feel its charm. The central part of the town is Pjaca. The main square is the largest and the most beautiful in Dalmatia. The square is surrounded by St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Bishop’s palace and the Arsenal. Hvar has also had the oldest public theatre in Europe, formed in 1612 and located in the Arsenal. We advise you to take a short walk up to the fortress Fortica and enjoy a stunning view on Pakleni island. This island chain protects Hvar harbor from the south. Hvar is also known as the sunniest island on the Adriatic, so it is not surprising that it is also famous for its vineyards and high-quality wines. Lavender flowers or lace from an agave plant made by nuns from the Benedictine monastery are some of the unique souvenirs that you can take from this island. We will enjoy the rest of the evening anchored in the silence of turquoise waters around Pakleni islands.

WEDNESDAY: island of Hvar to town of Korčula

Today we will have a few extra hours of sailing in the morning to reach the town of Korčula on the island with the same name. This picturesque little town, located on a small peninsula, and surrounded by city walls and towers is often compared to Dubrovnik. While arriving at Korčula from the sea, we will enjoy the best perspective of this city, known for its timeless beauty and its connection to a famous medieval explorer and world traveler – Marco Polo. It is believed that Polo was born right here in Korčula (as the family name DePolo is usual on the island). You are welcome to visit a museum located in the building that’s believed to be his birth house. Today we know that this house was built in the 17th century, but locals say that it is built on the ruins of his old house. Nevertheless, this is a must see location in Korčula as it also offers a wonderful view of the city. Korčula’s old town has the most interesting layout. Built in the shape of a fish bone – with one main street that goes from north to south and many small ones that join it vertically. This design offers good aeration and also protects the town from strong winds. While walking the old town we suggest you pay a visit to St Marcos cathedral with the altarpiece painting ‘Three Saints’ painted by the Venetian artist Tintoretto. You can also climb the bell tower for a stunning view. Besides the cathedral, the Town Museum and Abbey Treasury are located on the main city square. Modern art lovers can visit the Memorial Collection of Maksimilijan Vanka. If you are more into romantic walks, an impressive 101 steps long promenade leading up to the church of St Anthony on a nearby hill would be our suggestion for you. And in the evening we might be lucky enough to see the performance of moreška – a traditional sword dance that has its origins in Spain and today is performed only in Korčula. While walking the streets of Korčula, this unique and unforgettable little town, you will immediately feel its charm: palm trees located next to the sea, massive stone walls that offer the most romantic views and where best cocktails are served, cobbled streets, beautiful Renaissance houses and churches, chic and charming shops and boutiques – Korčula has it all. The rich history combined with the beautiful nature, colorful gastronomy and warm and welcoming people is this town’s formula of success. And this is why we assure you; you will be thrilled with your visit to this island.

THURSDAY: Korčula to the Peninsula Pelješac and the towns of Orebic and Lovište

Peninsula Pelješac is one of the most famous wine regions on the Adriatic that has produced one of the best  wines from the grape Plavac Mali. And here we will have a private wine tour and tasting. Lovište is a small town situated in a beautiful bay, a natural marina, on the west end of Pelješac Peninsula facing the island of Hvar. This typical Dalmatian town has only 250 residents – hardworking fishermen, grape-growers and hospitable hosts.  The island has 30 km of virgin beaches and hidden bays which attract numerous sailors and swimmers. In the middle of the 19th century, Lovište was established by settlers from the town Bogomolja on the island of Hvar which is just across the channel. In Roman times it was a port on the maritime communication between Korcula  and Narona. From that time, traces of a Roman villa rustica have been found in Loviste. There is also the church of the Heart of Mary from 1885. Orebic, the largest town on the Peljesac Peninsula is the old home of seamen and is located on the southern coast of the Peljesac Peninsula. The surroundings are characterized by luxurious Mediterranean vegetation. The economy is based on farming, fruit growing, fishing and tourism. In the past the town was an important maritime center. Until the 16th century it was called Trstenica and was the duke’s seat under the Dubrovnik administration (1343-1806). The stone walls and fortifications (on the hills of Gruda and Vizanjica) date back to the prehistoric times. The traces of a Roman habitation (remains of a Roman villa – villa rustica, graves) have been found as well. The small Baroque church has an early Christian marble relief built-in above the door of the closed arcade. The town is also the home of the Maritime Museum. The Gothic-Renaissance Franciscan monastery (15th century) is located 2 km west of the town and features a collection of works of art. The monastery church was built in 1486 by Mihoc Radisic. The main portal features the relief of Madonna, a work by an anonymous disciple of N. Fiamberti. In the church is another relief of Madonna, made by Nikola Firentinac (Nicholas of Florence). On the hill above the monastery is a Gothic church, restored in Baroque style, dedicated to Our Lady of Karmen. Next to it are ancient sarcophagi and several age-old, huge cypresses, as well as a Baroque loggia and the ruins of the Trstenica duke’s castle.

Our beautiful private wooden “gulet” yacht is one of the largest of its type in Croatia at 102 feet long.(Gulet – A classic wooden yacht with sails, but primarily powered by engine, built usually in Bodrum or Marmaris in the southwestern coast of Turkey). A total of 14 Adventurers can be accommodated in 7 double sized bedded, (58 square foot) cabins, each with an en suite bathroom and shower. Our yacht is a family run business – owned by our wonderful Captain Jure – which means that he and the three person crew will do their best to make sure everything goes smoothly on our sailing Adventure. This yacht was completely renovated in 2015.  She also has a 2 person on deck Jacuzzi!

Our yacht has a very spacious salon that comprises of a dining area and a TV which is perfect for those seeking escape from the sun. The ample salon extends out to the generous exterior spaces that offer multiple lounging and dining areas.

A large sunbathing area is located on the front deck with brand new sun mattresses partially shielded from the sun so you can enjoy both the sun, and shade when needed. Here is where our two person jacuzzi is located which can be enjoyed when we are at anchor.

The aft deck features a beautiful outdoor dining table. Another sitting area is located on the front deck intended for casual dining and relaxing under the shade.

We have plenty of water sports equipment that will keep everyone aboard entertained. There are two kayaks, fishing and snorkeling gear, two paddle boards, and a donut, a wakeboard and water skis pulled by our 60hp tender.

In addition to recreational activities, you will also relish delicious local meals prepared by Chef Walter and assisted by our on board yacht chef.

Each of the cabins has a wardrobe, 24 V/220 electricity, hair dryers, its own ensuite bathroom and a shower box with a curtain. Air-conditioning is provided for eight hours during the heat of the day. The nights are cool and fans are available in each cabin. WiFi is also available on board.

Our tender boat is an 18 foot Brig brand with 60 hp outboard motor. The tender is used to take our Adventurers to shore and to pull the donut, water ski-ers and the wake board!

You may fly into the Split Airport SPU (Resnik Airport) and book a short Uber ride to the port. If you arrive earlier than the first day of your Adventure, Uber or an inexpensive taxi is also available to your hotel from the Airport. If you arrive at the Dubrovnik airport (3.5 hour drive from Split), we are happy to help you arrange your transfer to Split by ferry or private driver. 

The Artistic Gourmet Adventures’ greeting window time is 16:00 (or 4 pm) on Sunday at the port (port location will be determined prior to the first day of your Adventure). We set sail at 6 pm.

Please plan for a 9:00 am departure from the yacht on Saturday, the last day of your Adventure. We can arrange for a driver to meet you at the Port for your onward journey (recommended as the port is remote). 

This Adventure includes ground transportation by air conditioned van (as per itinerary), as well as all excursion costs.

Services and fares

The fare includes accommodation in a double bedded cabin with double or single occupancy, and breakfast daily, Gourmet dinners daily and hors d’oeurves including soft drinks and coffee/tea. Wine is included with dinner onboard as well as an assortment of complimentary cocktails and beer.

Meals: Lunches or dinners on shore are not included.  Airfare not included.

Travel and Medical Insurance is required and can be bought at a reasonable price on the website https://www.squaremouth.com/ with a variety of policies. Many of them cover if you have to cancel for Covid reasons. Several of them include cancel for any reason. Purchase of this insurance may save you thousands if illness occurs. Some require a “deposit date” within 14 days of purchase to qualify for insurance.

Double Occupancy, $4650 per person maximum of two occupants per cabin.

Single Occupancy rate $6600.

Nonrefundable deposit of $1000 per person due upon booking.

(If Minimum occupancy of 10 Adventurers is not attained least 3 months prior to sailing date, Deposits will be refunded)

Further information regarding our Sailing Croatia Adventure

Your safety on board always comes first.  At the beginning of every journey a detailed safety briefing will be held by the crew. Individual life-saving equipment (life jackets) are available in sufficient quantity.

Clothing

When sailing, it is important to bring layers.
Rainproof and windproof jackets beneficial. We also recommend to bring a hat (headscarf, bandana, or cap) as well as water shoes for pebble beaches. On board, bare feet or complimentary for-the-yacht only AGA Flip Flops will be provided.

Aboard a traditional sailing ship, contact of your garments with sturdy materials such as wood, hemp ropes and steel can hardly be avoided. In addition, it is possible that your clothes may have contact with tar, rust or lubricants, because small maintenance or repair work may be carried out by the crew during the voyage. Please choose your clothing accordingly.

Connection to the Internet

In the ports and in coastal waters, the reception is usually good enough for the internet to work on mobile devices. An on-board wireless network or an on-board “internet hotspot” is available.

Meals

Special meal requests (vegan, vegetarian, etc.) and specific food allergies or intolerances (gluten intolerance, lactose intolerance, etc.) can be considered by our Chefs.  Please inform us upon registration on the registration form.

Insurance

We require you to have a private accident and leisure insurance, including some special travel health insurance and medical evacuation insurance. If you are on medication, please bring your medicines in sufficient quantity on board. Inform Kim (our resident retired Nurse Practitioner) about your medical condition when registering (i.e. allergies, diabetics, etc.). A sunscreen with high sun protection factor and possibly a good pair of sunglasses should not be missing in your luggage. If you wear glasses please bring an eyeglass strap to secure your glasses.

If you are sensitive to seasickness, we recommend wearing a SeaBand, taking vitamin C, preferably in the form of ginger preparations which are available in pharmacies, health food stores or drug stores (note: this not intended as medical advise; please pay attention to package inserts and individual intolerances carefully). Or bring a health provider prescribed medication.

When traveling outside of your home country, necessary vaccinations must be observed including Covid 19. The ship is not barrier-free (not accessible for people who are dependent on a wheelchair or with limited mobility).

Itinerary / lay days in port / shore leave

The itinerary and the ports stated in our travel descriptions may be subject to change upon short notice due to the wind and weather conditions. The course of each day’s leg is often decided by the captain on the same day. Due to too large a draft, in some harbors and bays of the Adriatic, the yacht cannot be moored ashore. In this case the passengers will get disembarked for shore leave by the motorized tender.

Language on board

All communication is in English or if you speak Croatian, great!

Luggage

The weight of your luggage should not exceed 20 kg (44 lb) if possible.  If possible, we recommend the use 0f “soft bags” (i.e. traveling bag, sports bag, duffel bag) as these are easier to stow under your bed in your cabin. Basically, it is advisable to bring only as much luggage with you as necessary. On our sailing Adventure you won’t need any formal attire and an island wardrobe is perfect! In addition, there is less wardrobe space available than you are used to from home. The following list serves at best as a recommendation, and should be adapted by you

Climate – Croatia in June Low of 66°F and High of 80.6°F.

General baggage

 Light jacket
 Light weight pants
 Light sweater
 Water shoes or Flip Flops
 Shoes/Sandals for shore leave
 Socks, underwear
 T-Shirts
 Nightwear
 Shorts
 Swimwear
 Cap / sun hat
 Sarong
 Scarf / bandana
 Sunscreen / sunblock (no suntan oil – makes the deck slippery), sunglasses, goggles band
 Moisturizer, lip balm, and other personal toiletries
 Own travel pharmacy with medications that are used personally
 Ear plugs for night time
 Paper copy of your identity card or passport
 Cash in Kuna – local Croatian currency, Credit cards for on shore.
 Camera with memory card and battery, if necessary, battery charger, USB flash drive for sharing images-waterproof case.
 Waterproof bag, e.g. for beach excursions by dinghy
 Small backpack for shore excursions, possibly plastic bag for used clothes

There are no laundry facilities onboard.

We would like to put emphasis on the remark that we do not go with a frequently changing volunteer crew, but with a permanent crew.  All crew members are certified and familiar with the yacht even in difficult nautical situations, which adds to your personal safety.