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Our flexible booking conditions include a 14-day refund guarantee and free trip changes.
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TRIP OVERVIEW

7 days
SwimTrek Classic
8km/day
Challenging

Trip Dates

2023
08 Jul - 14 Jul
Full
26 Aug - 01 Sep
Private
2024

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Tour Highlights

  • Challenge yourself with longer daily swims and complete a variety of coastal swims, crossings and circumnavigations on this island-hopping adventure

  • Explore the beautiful uninhabited islands of the Šibenik archipelago

  • Take in the stunning landscapes that exist both above and below the water

  • Relax and enjoy the laid back atmosphere of the friendly island of Prvic Luka

Discover the beautiful waters of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast on this long swims open water swimming holiday in the spectacular Sibenik Archipelago. With literally hundreds of islands to explore, many of which are uninhabited, our longer swims give you the perfect chance to push yourself a little further while exploring more of this breathtaking corner of the world.

This trip features an average daily swim distance of 7km and includes a combination of coastal swims, crossings and circumnavigations. The islands, reefs and islets which make up the archipelago provide us with an endless list of places to explore, while the fantastic water quality and underwater topography make for some excellent swimming conditions.

Located in the Adriatic Sea, we are based on the island of Prvić in the geographic heart of the Dalmatian Coast. This is the perfect base from which to explore the area's uninhabited islands, quiet fishing communities and laid back way of life. You will also have the chance to visit some of the region’s most isolated islands, including Zlarin which has been inhabited for 700 years and where cars are still banned today. Many of the islands visited on the tour are uninhabited and their natural beauty is untouched.

If you would like to explore this part of the world, but are looking for slightly shorter swimming distances, please check out our Dalmatian Coast - Croatia or Dalmatian Coast Short Swims - Croatia trips.


Who is this trip for?

This trip is for those who enjoy a combination of coastal swims and island-hopping and want to extend their daily swim distances a little further than on our other trips. Swimmers should also have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average swim distance of around 4 km prior to the start of the trip. The average daily swim distance is around 8km (split over a minimum of two swims).

We have given this trip a ‘Challenging’ grading. These trips are for experienced open water swimmers who want to push themselves.


What's Included?

  • Fully guided swimming holiday in Croatia
  • Swim guides and full safety escort on all swims
  • Technique advice with video playback
  • Six nights' accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • All lunches

What's not included?

  • Travel to and from the start of the tour
  • Evening meals



Related Trips

Daily Itineraries

Please note that the below daily itineraries are an example of the swims that may take place during the course of your trip, however, actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and sea conditions. Your SwimTrek guides and local boat pilot will determine the most suitable swim locations each day and will communicate the plan with all guests as soon as possible.

Trip Schedule

Start Point: Hotel Maestral, Prvić Luka

Start Time: 17:00 on Day 1

Finish Point: Hotel Maestral, Prvić Luka

Finish Time: 11:00 on Day 7

Day 1

We meet in the late afternoon where you will have a chance to relax before our pre-trip briefing and acclimatisation swim. In the briefing we will discuss in detail the plan for the upcoming week.

Day 2

Following breakfast, we carry out a long swim along the Prvić Luka coast. It’s a great opportunity to get used to the conditions and the environment before we take on our first crossing later in the day. The sheltered bay of Sepurine is our base for a technique videoing session. The guides video your stroke above and below the water to provide advice on later in the evening over drinks. The second swim of the day is a crossing to Tijat. After arriving at Tijat, we follow the coast into the Blue Lagoon, from where we make our way up to the highest point on the island, where the view from the top is fantastic. In the evening, a technique advice and video playback session will be held using the footage from earlier in the day.

Day 3

Today, we head to the western side of Tijat for our first crossing of the day to Bavlenac. Two thirds of the way across, we skirt across the northern tip of the uninhabited island of Zmajan. After a hearty lunch and a chance for some rest, we do our second crossing of the day from Bavlenac to Kaprije. We have a chance to explore the island of Kaprije upon landing. A short walk up the hill offers you a perfect panorama of your crossing from Zmajan. Continuing down the hill brings you to the other side of Kaprije where you will find its main village, complete with coffee and ice-cream.

Day 4

We head to the island of Zlarin, with its rugged coastline and fertile interior. In the morning, we swim along its northern coast. While we swim we have excellent views of St Nicholas Fortress built by the Venetians in the 15th century and which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. While on Zlarin, we will have a relaxed lunch, followed by an optional walk (2km) up to the island’s lookout tower which gives stunning views over the islands to which we are swimming during the week. The second swim of the day sees us circumnavigate Lupac island, Prvic’s smaller neighbour.

Day 5

Today we return to island-hopping and complete two more crossings. The morning is taken up with the crossing from Kaprije to the uninhabited island of Kakan. It’s then time for one of the biggest crossings of the week as we swim to the rugged island of Žirje, which is one of Croatia’s most isolated yet idyllic islands.

Day 6

Today it's an early start as we head back to Žirje, the most western island of the Šibenik archipelago, for a day of scenic coastal swimming along some of its most striking coastline. There is nothing in the Adriatic between where we swim and the Italian coastline. The underwater topography is superb and dolphins have been spotted around here previously.

Day 7

We have a relaxed start today as we make our way to a remote beach, where we will have a short swim to end a fantastic week together.

Location Summary

Prvić Luka (near Šibenik)

This car-free island contains two beautiful traditional Mediterranean towns. Almost invisible from the mainland, they have preserved their peace and original appearance for generations.

Šibenik

This UNESCO World Heritage listed city is beautiful to explore. St James Cathedral towers over Šibenik’s water frontage and terrapins bathe in the fountain in front of the Church of Our Lady.

Žirje

Inundated with bays and coves and the furthest-out island of the Šibenik archipelago, Žirje is a real gem. Popular with sailors, it has a real maritime feel about it.

Trip Grading

We have given this trip a ‘Challenging’ grading. These trips are for experienced open water swimmers who want to push themselves.

Swimming Distances

Swim Distance
Prvić Luka Coastal 4km
Prvić Luka - Tijat 2½km
Tijat - Bavlenac 4½km
Bavlenac - Kaprije 3½km
Zlarin Coastal 5km
Lupac Circumnavigation 2½km
Kaprije - Kakan 4km
Kakan - Žirje 4½km
Žirje Coastal (1) 3½km
Žirje Coastal (2) 2½km

Please note that these swims are an example of what may take place during the course of your trip and should be used as a guide only. Actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and sea conditions.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the sea is a fantastic experience, however you should be aware that certain marine life such as sea lice, jellyfish, sea urchins and coral could be present during the swims. In all cases we will work on reducing your contact with these creatures, however if you suffer from anaphylaxis, please consult the office prior to booking.

Walking Distances

There are two optional 2 km walks that you can choose to take part in. These take place on the islands of Tijat and Zlarin and offer spectacular panoramic views from both islands.

Walking Conditions

Most other walks take place on recognised paths and tracks, however, there may be cases where we walk along trails or other unsealed surfaces and care should be taken in these areas.

Temperatures

Month Water Temperature* Air Temperature*
June 20-23˚C / 68-73˚F 22-26˚C / 72-79˚F
October 19-21˚C / 66-70˚F 21-24˚C / 70-75˚F

*Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out our swims. As a consequence, open water swimming holidays require a certain degree of on-trip flexibility which can result in changes to the planned itinerary. These changes often add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and will be communicated to you by your SwimTrek guides as quickly as possible.

Trip Information

Group Size and Boat Support

This trip has a maximum group size of 15. The group will be split into a maximum of three groups, based on speed, with each group being accompanied by their own safety vessel/escort.

Boat support on this trip includes one main boat and two inflatable boats to be piloted by your SwimTrek guides and a local boat pilot. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Equipment Checklist

In addition to your daily non-swimming clothes, we also recommend that you bring the following items:

Item Item
Swimming Costume (x 2) Towel
Swimming Goggles (x 2)* Sweater / Fleece
Sun Hat and Sunglasses Waterproof Jacket
Waterproof Sun Cream & Insect Repellent Walking Shoes / Sandals
Small Daypack Aqua Shoes / Sandals
Personal drinks bottle x 2

*Try to bring one clear lens and one tinted lens for different light conditions.

For more information, please visit our Packing List page on the website. SwimTrek will supply swim hats, water, and electrolyte drinks. The guides will no longer distribute shared drinks bottles but will fill your personal drink bottles. Please ensure these are clearly marked to help our coaches identify yours. If you would like to use a wetsuit, rash vest, snorkel, or fins during your swims, please ensure that you bring these with you.

Getting There

The easiest way to get to Prvić Luka is to fly into Split airport and take the private transfer which is organised through the Hotel Maestral. As SwimTrekkers come from all over the world, and join our swimming holidays in numerous destinations, we don't currently offer flights as part of our SwimTrek packages. We do however want to do as much as we can to ensure that our guests get the best deals when travelling to one of our trips so check out our SwimTrek flight tips page on the website. Whilst we have outlined various travel options below, they are subject to change and should be used as a guide only. We suggest that you use the following websites to search for alternative flight and ferry options for this trip. Whichever route you choose to take, we recommend confirming your flights and other travel arrangements as early as possible in order to avoid price rises and availability issues.

From Split Airport

Private Transfer to Prvić Luka

To arrange a private transfer from Split Airport to your accommodation at Hotel Maestral, please contact the hotel directly by emailing your arrival information to: info@hotelmaestral.com. This service includes a car and taxi boat transfer, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, dependent on traffic. The rates are indicated below and are payable on location.

NUMBER OF PASSENGERS PRICE PER PASSENGER (EURO)
1 110 EUR
2 55 EUR
3 50 EUR
4 45 EUR
5+ 40 EUR

Public Transport to Šibenik

Public transport from Split Airport to Šibenik involves catching two different buses. Please note that the information below should be used as a guide only and is subject to change. From Split Airport, you will need to take the number 37 bus to Trogir, which takes approximately 10 minutes. From Trogir, you will need to board another bus to Šibenik, which takes approximately 1 - 1.5 hours. For up-to-date schedules, availability and the latest route options for this journey please visit: - Split Airport to Trogir: Promet Split - Trogir to Šibenik: Arriva

Ferry from Šibenik to Prvić Luka

The ferry ticket office is just 50m from Šibenik bus station, to your left when facing towards the sea. The journey time is approximately 30 minutes and Prvić Luka is usually the second stop, however, we recommend you check this locally. For up-to-date schedules, tickets and further ferry information, please visit: Jadrolinija

Zadar Airport

Private Transfer to Prvić Luka

To arrange a private transfer from Zadar Airport to your accommodation at Hotel Maestral, please contact the hotel directly by emailing your arrival information to: info@hotelmaestral.com. This service includes a car and taxi boat transfer, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, dependent on traffic. The rates are indicated below and are payable on location.

NUMBER OF PASSENGERS PRICE PER PASSENGER (EURO)
1 110 EUR
2 55 EUR
3 50 EUR
4 45 EUR
5+ 40 EUR

Public Transport to Šibenik

Public transport from Zadar Airport to Šibenik involves catching two different buses. Please note that the information below should be used as a guide only and is subject to change. From Zadar Airport, you will need to take the airport bus to the main bus station in Zadar city centre, which takes approximately 20 minutes. From Zadar city centre, you will then need to take another bus to Šibenik, with a journey time of approximately 1.5 hours. For up-to-date schedules, availability and the latest route options for this journey please visit: - Zadar Airport to Zadar:Get By Bus - Zadar to Šibenik: Bus Croatia

Ferry from Šibenik to Prvić Luka

The ferry ticket office is just 50m from Šibenik bus station, to your left when facing towards the sea. The journey time is approximately 30 minutes and Prvić Luka is usually the second stop, however, we recommend you check this locally. Please be aware that at times, the last ferry leaves Šibenik at 1930pm, but for up-to-date schedules, tickets and further ferry information, please visit: Jadrolinija

Accommodation

Our accommodation for this trip is in Hotel Maestral, one of the region’s finest locally-owned hotels. The hotel is perfectly situated directly on the waterfront and offers a range of twin-share rooms with en suite facilities. There are a limited number of single supplement rooms which can be reserved during the booking process, subject to availability.

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation and Trip Extension Options

If you require any additional nights’ accommodation before or after the trip, this can be arranged directly through the Hotel Maestral.

Email: info@hotelmaestral.com

Tel: +385 22 448 300

Food and Drink

All breakfasts and lunches are included in your trip price, however, dinners are at your own expense. This gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore and experience the local cafes and restaurants of your choice over the course of your trip. The average cost of dinner in a local restaurant is around 225 Kn. Throughout the course of the trip you will have to opportunity to join us for optional group dinners at locally recommended restaurants.

For more information, please visit our food and drink page on the website.

Travel Advice

For more information on any of the following sections please visit the Travel Advice page of our website.

Money, Extra Expenses and Tipping

You should bring extra money with you to cover such items as dinners, souvenirs, entertainment, etc. The local currency is Euro €. There is one ATM available in Prvić Luka where you can draw local currency out, it is located 100m down the road from our hotel. It is advised to draw local currency out before arriving on the island, you can exchange currency at the post office and there is a cash machine in Šibenik.

Please note a tourist tax will need to be paid on location and will be up to €2.20 per person per night.

In some countries, tipping (gratuities) is not part of the culture - in others it has become an expected norm. We believe that tipping is done entirely at your own discretion. If you have been provided with excellent it may be something you wish to do. Your SwimTrek Guides can advise on local norms for service providers like boat crew, waiters or taxis. Nothing is expected for your SwimTrek Guides but many groups like to present something to the Guides at the end of the trip.

Passports and Visas

Croatia is part of the European Union. Non-residents of Croatia require a full passport to enter the country, which should be valid for six months beyond the expected length of stay. Citizens of most countries, including all E.U. member states, U.S., Canada, Australia and New Zealand do not require a visa to enter Croatia. Please note that visa regulations are subject to change and we advise that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel.

Responsible Travel

SwimTrek is conscious of the importance of protecting the world’s natural wonders. We are acutely aware of our responsibility to not only take care of the natural environments which we are lucky enough to explore, but also to educate our guests about the importance of conservation efforts and responsible tourism. It’s for this reason that we have worked so closely with our partners to ensure that our trips are conducted in the most responsible and sustainable way possible, working tirelessly to minimise the impact of our presence on local marine life and the natural habitat. For more information, please visit our Responsible Travel page on the website

Travel Insurance

We consider comprehensive travel insurance to be essential, and we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which includes, but is not limited to, cover for illness, accident, emergency repatriation, ambulance, air ambulance, helicopter rescue services, cancellation, lost luggage and delays. Your travel insurance should also cover you for open water swimming and any other activity listed in your trip itinerary (including races and competitions, where applicable). Please read your policy details carefully and remember to take them with you on your trip for your own reference. For further information, please visit our Travel Insurance page on the website.

Here at SwimTrek we pride ourselves on our focus on safety and the well-being of all our guests. As we operate in some beautiful and remote locations medical facilities are not always easily accessible. SwimTrek Guides, and many staff working for our local partners, are first aid trained. However we ask that you read our Travel Health page to ensure that you are informed about general Travel and Swim Health precautions

Internet Access, Electricity and Travel Plugs

There is complimentary Wi-Fi internet access across the hotel and room. For a useful source of information on the different electrical outlets, electrical plugs, and electric sockets, please visit worldstandards.eu worldstandards.eu.

As of 1 January 2023, Croatia became part of the Schengen area. Travellers from other Schengen countries do not require a visa to travel to Croatia. Generally, citizens of European countries, regardless of whether their countries are Member States of the EU or not, do not need a visa to come to Croatia but do require a full passport, valid for six months beyond the expected length of stay. The only exceptions to this rule are the Russian Federation, Belarus and the Republic of Turkey. Visa regulations are subject to change and we advise that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel.

  • Our guides, Telly and Cresho, were outstanding. They ensured we were safe, taught me loads, and I had such a fun time. I am grateful for the experience swimming safely and securely with a great group of like-minded people.

    Mary O. Ireland - 2018
  • Had a fantastic week with SwimTrek, I wouldn't hesitate in booking another trip with them! The guides were great and really made the week.

    Rachel L. UK - 2018

Book with Confidence
Our flexible booking conditions include a 14-day refund guarantee and free trip changes.
Terms and Conditions apply.

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