ISLAND HOPPING EXPEDITION | 6 DAYS
Sea kayak in Croatia and explore several amazing islands such as Drvenik Veli, Drvenik Mali, Solta, Brac and Hvar.
Toursummary
- Tour type: Multi day trips
- Activity type: Sea Kayaking
- Number of days kayaking 6
- Distance: 80 Nm
- Duration: 6 days
- Suggested minimum age: 12 years old
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Point of special interest: Hiking, Sea Kayaking, Snorkelling, Traditional Croatian gastronomy
Tour Summary
Sea kayak in Croatia and discover European paddling paradise. With a mild Mediterranean climate, azure water, and impressive coast, the perfect holiday is guaranteed. Explore stunning Dalmatian islands such as Solta, Brac, and Hvar. Melt with the untouched landscapes, majestic cliffs and tucked-away bays. Also, swim or snorkel in, without a doubt, some of the most stunning Mediterranean beaches. Enrich your experience with visits to historical sites and immerse yourself in the local culture. Revel in alluring fisherman Dalmatian towns and their traditional architecture. Walk behind the scene and find locals enjoying their tranquil way of life, well-known as “Pomalo” living. Above all, don’t miss tasting some delicious local specialties. Enjoy the freshest seafood prepared only with local ingredients served with a delightful local sort of wine!
TOUR STYLE
By all means, Island hopping – Sea kayak Croatia tour is expedition-style type: always on the move, traveling straight forward but repeating no part of the coast. However, changing overnights each night. Combining camping on lonesome beaches and guesthouses in charming villages. We travel with our kayaks loaded, carrying all the gear and food with us. Traveling this way allows us to explore many islands, islets, and reefs. Of course, kayaking this way, we cover over 80 km in 6 days of sea kayaking. The usual kayak distance is from 15 up to 18 km a day. Experienced and BCU certificated Red Adventures local leaders are to help you. Improve your kayaking skills and have a blast while sea kayaking in Croatia.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Small Dalmatian coastal villages and towns
- Adriatic crystal clear blue water
- Solta cliffs
- Blaca monastery & Navy tunnels
- Stari grad UNESCO plain
- Blue lagoon bay
Day 1Split - Ciovo island
On the first day of the trip meet your kayak leaders in Red Adventuress office. After leaving your extra luggage in our office we shuttle toward the starting point. Here you will change into the kayaking clothes. Our leaders will give you a full insight into the route and brief you on the gear, kayaking techniques and safety at sea. Still to pack up the kayak and you are ready to start your Croatian kayaking expedition.
Paddle along the Marjan hill shores covered with a lush pine tree. Cross the channel to reach the long cliffs and the secluded sanctuary „Our Lady of Prizidnica “on Ciovo Island. As the highlight of the day, we will take a break on the pristine beach hidden under a cliff and reachable only from the sea. Rest and enjoy a light snack, swimming, snorkelling and even deep-water soloing. After the break, we will conclude our day with a paddle to our campsite in Labadusa bay on the SW part of Ciovo island.
- Highlights: Park forest Marjan, Ciovo cliffs and its hidden beach
- Distance: 8 Nm / 15 km
Day 2Ciovo island – Maslinica
The second-day goal is Drvenik Veli island and the stunning Blue lagoon bay. During the channel cross many islets and reefs will make us company. Soon we will reach Blue Lagoon, one of the most picturesque nautical locations in the Adriatic. It generally consists of two islets enclosed by a sandy bottom bay, creating a postcard-worthy turquoise lagoon. After this natural wonder, we will kayak towards Solta island. Finally reaching charming village of Maslinica, famous for its imposing 17th-century castle.
- Highlights: Blue lagoon, the village of Maslinica
- Distance: 8 Nm / 15 km
Day 3Solta island
After breakfast, we will paddle along the wild and untouched southern shores of the island. Passing hidden coves and numerous beaches on one side and the endless blue sea on the other. Once we reach Senjska bay, if time allows, we will leave our kayaks and hike through the forest to the top of the island. A stunning panoramic view of the surrounding islands will open right before us. If we are lucky, we will get to see the sunset over the horizon.
- Highlights: Lonesome coves of Solta island, Tatinja cove
- Distance: 7 Nm / 13 km
Day 4Solta island - Milna area
A stunning day ahead of us. Kayak from Solta towards Brac island, passing majestic vertical cliffs, crags and beaches only accessible by sea. Followed by a swim stop in a green deep bay of Stracinska. Later cross a narrow channel to Brac Island and finish paddling in Osibova bay. Here we will leave our kayaks and head for the picturesque town of Milna where we will spend the night. An easy hike to the village will take us through the local olive fields and vineyards. While enjoying the sights, scents and authentic atmosphere we will reach our overnight.
- Highlights: Stracinska bay, Solta island cliffs
- Distance: 8 Nm /15 km
Day 5Milna - Murvica
Kayaking and hiking are on the menu for today. You will start with an easy morning paddle passing beautiful bays such as Lucice and Maslinova. After a swim break, grab a paddle and prepare for a history lesson. We are taking you into the hidden navy tunnels built by Tito (Yugoslavian dictator) during the cold war. Picnic lunch stop is in Blaca bay from where we have an optional 45-minute hike up to Blaca caves. An astonishing monastery-hermitage founded by the Glagolitic priests who fled the Turks around 1550. After returning to our kayaks, we will paddle until we reach Murvica, our campground for the night. If you would like to experience vibrant nightlife or some of the best restaurants on the island, you can visit the nearby town of Bol. The town is also famous for the unique “Zlatni rat” – Golden horn beach.
- Highlights: Navy tunnels, Blaca hermitage, Golden cape beach, Bol town
- Distance: 9 Nm / 16.5 km
Day 6Island Brac - island Hvar
After leaving the island of Brac we will cross the channel to the Island of Hvar and enjoy the wild Cape Kabal and surrounding bays. Cross the channel to the Island of Hvar and explore the wild Kabal Cape. With its numerous bays, it’s a perfect place for a kayaking break and a swim. Continue kayaking by entering a majestic Stari Grad bay. Finalising your Croatian kayaking expedition in the ancient town of Stari Grad (Old town). Founded by Greeks 2500 years ago it’s the Croatian oldest settlement. Ancient Greeks decided it would be a perfect location for their first settlement in the Adriatic. Exceptional geographical characteristics, rich water resources and fertile fields in its close proximity don’t leave any place to doubt them. This still applies nowadays as this stunning location got recognised by a UNESCO world heritage site. Return to Split with the last ferry from island Ivar
- Highlights: Stari grad
- Distance: 10Nm (18.5km)
Day 7 (Optional with surcharge)Hvar - Split (bike ride & ferry transport)
Enjoy the morning guided bike ride through Stari grad. Cycle the Ager field and climb up the charming villages on the north side of Hvar island including Vrbovska, Jelsa and Pitve. While cycling through vineyards, olive groves and lavender fields you will also gain insight into the island’s rich history and tradition. Our tour concludes with an afternoon ferry ride back to Split.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
The exact route depends on the weather conditions during the tour and group rhythm. This specifically can affect a day 5 and reaching Murvica and Bol town. In case of rougher weather conditions or slower pace of the groups during 5 days of the tour, we might cut the tour a bit shorter and have overnight in Blaca area before crossing the channel to island Hvar.
The tour runs from late April to early October, with the best periods for the tour being May, June, and September.
Departures are available each Sunday during the following months:
| May | June | July/August | September | October | Other months |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1199€ | 1299€ | On request | 1299€ | 1199€ | 1069€ |
The price includes:
• Transfer from Split to the starting point of the tour
• 2 overnights in apartments (double room occupancy)*
• 3 overnights in official and wild campsites
• Camping gear: two-person tent, sleeping bag, camping mattress
• All breakfasts (except on the first day)
• Picnic lunch every day
• 3 dinners while camping, prepared by our guide or at a local tavern
• High-quality Prijon sea kayaks with choice of a single or double kayak
• Full sea kayaking equipment including paddles, buoyancy aid, dry bags, spray deck, etc.
• Experienced & licensed kayaking guide (BCU qualified, English speaking)
• Sea kayak handling/safety briefing
• Sea kayaking technique instruction (on request)
• Hiking trip to Blaca desert monastery
• Photos from the tour
• Snorkeling equipment
• Storage of excess luggage at our office during the tour
• Ferry transfer from finishing point on island Hvar back to Split
* Single room supplement is subject to an additional price depending on the season
The price does NOT include:
• Airfares & other travel expenses to arrive at the meeting point in Split
• Accommodation before and after the tour
• Travel insurance that covers sea kayaking
• Tips for your guide
• Personal expenses
• Drinks in taverns or restaurants
MEALS
We include breakfast during the entire tour, except on the starting day. Depending on the group size, our guide organizes the breakfast in the self-service arrangement at our accommodation location or at a local restaurant. It includes cheese, ham, cereals, bread spreads, fruits, milk, coffee, tea, etc.
Each day during the lunch breaks our guide will offer you snacks such as sandwiches, pastries, fruits, or energy bars.
Depending on our overnight location, the dinners are prepared by our local guide or organized in a local tavern. Drinks are at your own cost.
For other nights where dinner is not included, we will recommend you best local restaurants depending on your budget, making sure you try the best local cuisine offers.
Upon your booking, we will send you a simple online questionnaire assuring that we meet your preferences, wishes, and needs to the maximum. Based on your feedback we will organize the most suitable meal arrangements making sure any of your dietary restrictions or needs are accommodated.
For ecological reasons, we encourage our clients to bring their own reusable water bottles that will be filled out whenever needed.
ACCOMMODATION
This is an expedition-style tour, and you will change your overnight accommodation each day of the trip. We combine picturesque coastal towns, small local camps, and hidden beaches.
This tour combines apartment/guesthouse accommodation (2 nights) with official and wild or official camping (3 nights).
We provide camping gear for the nights in camps. It includes a two-person tent, a basic camping mattress, and a sleeping bag. For your own comfort, we encourage you to bring your own sleeping bag or linen.
We use simple apartments and guesthouses. We handpick each unit making sure they are centrally located, with a character, and close to the sea.
The package includes double room occupancy, meaning two people being accommodated in a room with a two-person (double) bed. Twin beds are rarely available and upon booking, you should specifically request if you prefer such an arrangement.
Single room occupancy is available upon request and subject to an additional supplement that depends on the tour season, ranging between €30 and €50 per night. Please contact us for more details.
We use high-quality Prijon kayaks, made in Germany.
You choose between single and double touring kayaks depending on your preference and experience. For those with a lack of extensive kayaking experience or questionable physical fitness, we always recommend a double kayak for comfort and safety. Our double kayak Prijon Poseidon offers outstanding performance while providing great comfort and stability.
We have various single kayak models available that are usually distributed based on your weight, height, and previous experience. If you are an experienced paddler with specific preferences, please let us know, and we will do our best to meet your needs.
We provide you with full kayaking gear needed for the trip:
- Paddle (aluminum)
- Buoyancy aid
- Spray skirt
- Dry bags, etc.
Carbon paddle upgrade is available at the price of €5 per day.
How big will the group be?
We run this trip with a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 8. In exceptional cases, the number can be up to 12 in which case we provide an extra guide. We can organize bigger groups in private arrangements only.
How fit do I need to be?
The level of kayaking is moderate. Each day involves 4-5 hours of paddling, so we recommend you are in good physical condition. With windy weather, the difficulty level can go up and extend kayaking time. You must be able to swim.
What are the sea conditions there?
Usually, the sea is calm, and we are kayaking downwind using the thermal winds usually blowing from west to east. However, windy days are still possible and conditions can get challenging for beginner paddlers. Currents and tides in Croatia are minimal factors.
Is previous kayaking experience necessary?
Previous kayaking experience is recommended, but not mandatory. A good physical fitness level can substitute lack of experience.
What is the closest airport?
Split airport (SPU) is just 20 km away from our base. There are bus and taxi connections to downtown.
You can also consider alternative airports Zadar (ZAD), Dubrovnik (DBV), and even Zagreb (ZAG) from which it takes 3-5 hours to reach Split by bus. Please contact us for more details if you consider alternative airports.
Where do we meet?
The meeting point is in Split, Croatia. We recommend coming to Split one day before, as we have a briefing at our office the day before the tour. Also, Split offers a lot to see!
Where do I stay before and after the tour?
The tour departs in the morning, so we strongly recommend arriving to Split the day before the tour. The tour finishes in the late afternoon with a ferry transfer from Hvar to Split, so you might need an extra night in Split. We can assist you with accommodation arrangements if required.
Do I need to do the entire tour?
Most times, you can join the tour later or leave the tour earlier, making the tour shorter for some days. Please contact us with your travel day options, and we will try to fit you in.
Single or double kayak?
We strongly recommend double kayaks for beginners for speed, stability, comfort, and safety. Please see the Equipment info for more details on this. Consult our team for recommendations.
What should I pack?
We recommend bringing your swimsuit, long sleeve Lycra shirt, water shoes, towel, plenty of sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock). We recommend a book for your time off. Recommended clothes depend on the season, however, we recommend taking a long sleeve even during the summer in case of a chilly night. Bring your running/hiking shoes too. Please bring your own reusable water bottle for a water refill.
We will provide you with a suggested packing list to help you. Keep in mind to pack light because of limited space in the kayak.
What are the camping arrangements?
For 3 camping nights, we combine official campsites with wild camping sites, depending on availability. Official campsites have all facilities, while for wild camping nights the arrangements are very basic. We provide you with a camping package that includes a two-person tent, a sleeping bag, and a camping mattress. We recommend bringing your own sleeping bag for your own comfort.
What about the internet and battery recharge?
On three nights staying in apartments and official campsites, you will most probably have Wi-Fi. On wild camping nights, no Wi-Fi is available. You can consider buying a local sim card for an independent source of internet connection. The electricity socket standard in Croatia is European, types C, E, and F.
What is the weather like?
The Mediterranean climate here provides a lot of sun and pleasant temperatures. From May to October, the air temperature ranges from 20 to 32 degrees Celsius, while during July and August it often exceeds that number. Sea temperature usually exceeds 20 degrees in early June and reaches 26 degrees in July. During this period, it is mostly sunny, and it rarely rains.
| Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air (°C) | 15-25 | 20-30 | 23-33 | 25-35 | 25-35 | 23-30 | 15-25 |
| Sea (°C) | 17 | 19 | 21 | 24 | 25 | 23 | 20 |
| Rainy Days | 8 | 6 | 6 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 |
What about payments there?
Kuna is the official currency in Croatia. We recommend having some cash with you for payment, as some shops and restaurants might not accept credit cards in small villages. ATMs will be available almost every second day.
Are there shops, bars, and restaurants available?
Villages you will visit along the way will mostly have a supermarket or a little shop.
Can you accommodate my special dietary restrictions?
Absolutely, upon reservation, you will receive a questionnaire through which we receive your dietary restrictions and preferences.
What about water?
Tap water is absolutely fine to drink in most of the places, but there are some minor exceptions, so please consult with your guide depending on the place. During the kayaking, our guide will have water for re-fill. We encourage you to bring your reusable water bottle for environmental reasons.
Other questions?
Contact our team with any further questions