Sailboat tour to the islands

If you’re dreaming of seeing Croatia’s stunning coastline from a different perspective, this sailboat tour offers a chance to do just that. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, we’ve gathered enough info to give you a solid picture of what you can expect. It’s a trip that promises a mix of peaceful sailing, refreshing swims, and perhaps a bit of hands-on fun at the helm.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on relaxing, scenic sailing and the chance to enjoy local spots that might be less crowded than the more tourist-heavy areas. Plus, the inclusion of a glass of sparkling wine and some fresh fruit makes it feel like a proper treat. But be aware — you’ll need to book at least a week in advance, and the tour runs with a small group, which is great for intimacy but might mean some planning ahead.

One potential consideration is the weather dependency — a day at sea can be fantastic, but if weather turns sour, your trip could be canceled or rescheduled, and refunds are only available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. Still, if you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and engaging day on the water, this trip could be a great fit.

This sailing experience suits travelers who want to blend adventure with relaxation, appreciate good company, and love the idea of sailing under the Croatian sun. Perfect for those craving a unique, memorable day amid breathtaking scenery.

Key Points

• Beautiful sailing experience with a focus on scenic views and relaxation.
• Small group size (max 9 travelers), making it intimate and personalized.
• Includes drinks, fruit, and optional snorkeling for a balanced day on the water.
• Weather-dependent experience; cancellation possible if weather isn’t suitable.
• Skipper-led with opportunities to learn or take the wheel.
• Booking about a week in advance helps secure your spot.

What to Expect from the Sailboat Tour to the Islands

This six-hour trip is designed to give you a taste of the Croatian coast from the deck of a luxurious Bavaria Cruiser 40 sailboat. Starting at around 10 a.m. from the diving and water sports center in Tucepi, the experience begins with a friendly meet-up, where your skipper will introduce the boat and answer any questions you might have about sailing. Expect a relaxed atmosphere, especially with a refreshing glass of sparkling wine in hand, perfect for settling into the day.

Once underway, the boat will glide under the wind, heading towards one of the nearby Hvar or Bra islands. While the exact destination can depend on weather and group preferences, these islands are known for their incredible scenery and charm. It’s a great chance to photograph some classic Croatian landscapes, with the sailboat providing a unique vantage point.

The Sailing and Swimming Experience

As the boat moves, you’ll enjoy the sensation of sailing, which is quite different from other boat trips. The skipper will always be close by, ready to guide or teach those interested in trying out the helm — a rare and memorable experience for anyone curious about sailing.

A highlight for many is the swim and snorkel stop. You’ll have the opportunity to jump into crystal-clear waters, explore marine life with provided snorkeling gear, and just relax in a beautiful bay. Based on reviews, the ability to swim in calm, scenic spots adds a lot to the day, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

Included in the tour are soda, water, fresh fruit, and a glass of sparkling wine, creating a pleasant, casual vibe. This small touch elevates the experience, making it feel special without breaking the bank. The drinks and snacks help keep everyone refreshed, especially on warm days.

Stops and Sightseeing

The itinerary usually includes a stop at one of the islands, with a chance to soak up the local atmosphere, enjoy some ice cream in Jelsa (if you visit Hvar), or simply unwind on deck. The exact stops can vary, but the focus is on natural beauty and relaxed exploration rather than high-energy activities.

How the Experience Is Valued and Reviewed

While the overall rating sits at 4.3 out of 5 from six reviews, many travelers praise the stunning views and the skipper’s local knowledge. One reviewer noted that their sailing trip was “perfect for our family,” appreciating the well-planned route and the flexibility to adapt based on weather. They also mentioned that the boat met all their needs, highlighting its suitability for small groups and families.

Another reviewer mentioned how much they enjoyed swimming and the ability to talk to the skipper, Jacob, who was described as knowledgeable and engaging. Such comments suggest that, for many, the trip is less about the boat itself and more about the experience of sailing and exploring with a friendly guide.

However, not all reviews were glowing. Some noted that the experience with certain skippers could be hit or miss. One review described their experience as “disappointing” due to the skipper’s inability to relax, which underscores that skipper personality and attitude can influence the overall mood.

The reviews also hint that group size is small (up to 9 travelers), which keeps things cozy and allows for more personalized interaction. If you’re looking for a social yet relaxed environment, this aspect works well.

The Price and What You’re Getting

At $113.37 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option in Croatia, but it offers a nice balance of scenic sailing, snacks, drinks, and a memorable swim. When you consider the chance to try sailing, explore smaller islands, and enjoy local scenery from the deck of a well-maintained boat, the value seems fair for a half-day adventure.

It’s not a full-on cruise or a party boat — it’s more about relaxing, learning a bit about sailing, and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. For many travelers, that’s worth the price, especially if you’re eager to experience Croatia’s coast from a different angle.

Practical Details and Tips

• The meeting point is in Tucepi, at the diving and water sports center, which is accessible if you’re staying nearby.
• The tour begins promptly at 10 a.m., so arriving a little early is advisable.
• You’ll need moderate physical fitness to enjoy swimming and snorkeling, but overall, the trip is accessible.
• The experience is weather-dependent, so check the forecast and keep the cancellation policy in mind — free cancellation is available if you cancel more than 24 hours beforehand.
• Book around a week in advance, especially in peak season, to secure your spot.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel — even if these aren’t explicitly mentioned, they’re always good ideas when spending hours on the water.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This sailboat tour is suited for travelers who want to combine a bit of adventure with relaxation. If you enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming, and learning about sailing, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s ideal for those traveling with friends or a small family, especially if you appreciate a more intimate experience rather than large, crowded tours.

It’s also perfect for anyone interested in a laid-back day at sea, with the opportunity to take the helm or just sit back and soak up the views. If you’re a fan of good wine and fresh fruit, the touches included really help elevate the experience without feeling overly formal.

FAQs

Do I need sailing experience to join?
No, you don’t need prior sailing knowledge. The skipper will explain the boat and is always there for guidance. You can just relax or take the wheel if you want.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the reviews don’t explicitly say, the moderate physical activity and swimming suggest it’s suitable for travelers comfortable in the water. Always confirm with the provider if you’re traveling with kids.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, a hat, towel, and possibly a swimwear layer under your clothes. Snorkeling gear is available for use, but you might want to bring your own if you prefer.

How long is the trip?
About 6 hours, starting at 10 a.m. and returning to the same meeting point in Tucepi.

What’s included in the price?
Water, soda, fresh fruit, and a glass of sparkling wine. Snorkeling gear isn’t included but can be used.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. If weather is poor on the day, the tour might be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
No, private transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to get to the meeting point in Tucepi.

How many people are on the boat?
A maximum of 9 travelers, making it a cozy and personalized experience.

Can I take part in steering the boat?
Yes, you’re welcome to take the helm, and your skipper will be happy to show you how.

What are the main destinations?
The tour typically heads to one of the islands like Hvar or Bra, depending on weather and group preferences.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a meaningful sea adventure in Croatia that balances scenic beauty, a touch of sailing, and some relaxing swimming stops, this tour offers a pretty solid option. It’s especially suited for travelers who love the idea of being on the water but want to avoid large, loud party boats. The intimate group size and knowledgeable skipper can turn this into a memorable, personalized experience.

While the weather dependency and the small potential for variation in skipper attitude are considerations, for many, the chance to sail under Croatian skies and enjoy stunning island views makes this a worthwhile day out. It’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, but rather a peaceful, immersive way to experience Dalmatia’s coast.

Whether you’re a sailing newbie or just looking for a laid-back escape, this trip promises a lovely day on the water that you’ll remember long after you’ve left Croatia.