I absolutely loved the G Adventures sailing trip from Dubrovnik to Split. The pace was relaxed, my fellow crew members were fantastic company, and it exceeded every expectation !

We were a mixed crew - ages ranged from 21 to 60, mostly solo travelers, and sailing experience from zero to hero! It all just worked so well – everyone chipping in to cook, tidy up and take turns at the helm – under the watchful eye of our skipper and CEO (Chief Experience Officer) Marko Radanovic. Marko made the whole trip so enjoyable. He created a fun, comfortable and safe environment for everyone, no matter your age or experience level.  Marko struck that perfect balance between comfortable and genuinely fun. His calm confidence and easy professionalism set the tone for the whole week. 

My trip started on Saturday in Dubrovnik, so I travelled the day before and enjoyed some sightseeing.  I stayed at the City Hotel in Dubrovnik which is a pleasant 20-minute stroll downhill to the Old Town – and five-minute bus journey back up the hill.  I had plenty of time to get my bearings and relax before the adventure kicked off.

On Saturday morning I met the rest of the group at the Azzurro Restaurant in the marina,  ten-minutes’ drive from the city.  After our introductions, and arranging the Trip Kitty, we went as a group to the small supermarket at the marina to stock up on some essential supplies for the days ahead.  Once we were loaded up, we set off from Dubrovnik marina aboard our 54ft yacht, the Nexus Genesis. The boat is brand new, beautifully kitted out, and every cabin cleverly designed for storage, most have their own toilet ensuite with a handheld shower.

Our first stop was the island of Šipan, and we wasted no time diving into that famously crystal-clear water for our first swim. Šipan is also known for its olive groves.  Dinner was at a local fish restaurant, and thanks to Marko booking ahead, our table was ready and waiting. A short stroll back to the boat, and we settled in for the night in a bay so well protected from wind and waves that sleep came easy. 

Sunday: Mljet and its Saltwater Lakes

Everyone was up early for a morning swim at the beautiful beach just two minutes’ stroll from the boat.  This was followed by the most delicious coffee from the local café – the perfect start to the day. By 10am we were sailing toward Mljet, famous for its stunning national park and two saltwater lakes.

Once tied up at the small jetty, Marko arranged bicycles and we cycled the full loop around the lakes. There was time to cool off and take a lovely swim in the lake.  A few of our group swam through the fast-moving water in the channel connecting the two lakes. 

The afternoon was for more swimming, this time right around the yacht, and the day wrapped up at the Stella Maris, a local restaurant well known for its great food.

Monday: Kor?ula, Birthplace of Marco Polo

We left Mljet in the morning, setting course for Kor?ula with a leisurely swim stop in front of the monastery on the island of Badia along the way.  Kor?ula itself is a real gem, birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo, with narrow streets laid out like fish bones, an ancient design that ensures cool natural airflow through the town, even on the hottest of days.  The steep walk up the hill to the Bazita Cocktail Bar for a cold spritz was more than worth it for the wonderful view over the bay. That evening after our group dinner we had a wander through the old town, soaking up the evening atmosphere.

Tuesday: Hvar and safe harbour at Stari Grad

We sailed toward Hvar, passing right by the main town and getting a stunning view of it from the water. A storm was forecast, though, so instead of anchoring in the exposed bay, Marko steered us to the calm, quiet harbour at Stari Grad.  From there, a minibus taxi took us into Hvar town for a closer look at the Španjola Fortress, which we had seen from the sea earlier that day. Dinner was at Mizarola, a slightly hidden spot tucked away from Hvar's busier crowds.

Wednesday: Silence at Tiha Bay

A short sail brought us to Tiha Bay, which literally translates to "Silence", and it did feel like time had stopped. We anchored in a beautiful blue lagoon and enjoyed some swimming close to the boat.  In the afternoon, we took the dinghy over to a nearby bar for a drink, and dinner that evening introduced us to “Peka”, a Croatian specialty of slow-cooked meat over a fire for 3 to 4 hours, which makes the meat incredibly tender. After dinner, more relaxing, and for a few of us, a late-night swim in the calm waters of the bay.

Thursday: Onward to Split

We left in the morning and headed toward Split, stopping halfway for another swim – there was never too many! Once we reached Split marina, we had a free afternoon and evening to explore the old town and Diocletian's Palace, and of course there was time for some souvenir shopping. 

Friday: Trogir and a Farewell Dinner

Our final morning began in Split, sailing on towards Trogir with two more swimming stops along the way – we still hadn’t enough of swimming in the beautiful Adriatic. Once we arrived in Trogir and freshened up, we headed to Queen Teuta Restaurant for our farewell dinner. The old town made for a lovely send-off, its streets full of holidaymakers, markets, and one last round of souvenir shopping.

Saturday: Saying dovi?enja

After a lovely breakfast on board, we packed up and said our dovi?enja - Croatian goodbyes. Most of us took the transfer back to Split to spend the day exploring before our evening flights home.

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