Cookies help us deliver our services. By using our services, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more

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

TRIP OVERVIEW

7 days
SwimTrek Classic
3km/day
Leisurely

Trip Dates

2023
10 Jun - 16 Jun
Full
15 Jul - 21 Jul
Full
05 Aug - 11 Aug
Full
09 Sep - 15 Sep
Full
2024

Join the mailing list to be informed when trips go live

Download trip notes

Tour Highlights

  • Enjoy shorter daily swim distances and dive into coastal swims and crossings on this island-hopping adventure

  • Explore the beautiful uninhabited islands of the Šibenik archipelago at your own pace

  • 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

This introductory swimming holiday in Croatia explores the country's idyllic Dalmatian coastline as we swim between the 40 islands of the Šibenik archipelago. With a combination of island hopping and coastal swims, there is no shortage of spectacular places to discover in this beautiful corner of the world.

Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is dotted with more than 1,000 islands, and we base ourselves for this trip at the junction of the breathtaking Šibenik archipelago. Combining dramatic coastlines with superb water quality and beautiful islands, this really is an ideal location for an island hopping swimming holiday.

During the tour you will visit some of the most isolated islands in the Adriatic Sea 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 longer swimming distances, please check out our Dalmatian Coast or Dalmatian Coast Long Swims trips.


Who is this trip for?

This trip is designed for swimmers who are looking for a combination of both island-hopping and coastal swims with shorter daily swim distances. The trip is ideal for swimmers with a little less experience in the open water or who are looking to enjoy some additional time out of the water.

Swimmers should also have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average swim distance of around 2 km prior to the start of the trip. The average daily swim distance is around 3km (split over a minimum of two swims).

We have given this trip a 'Leisurely' grading for people who want to swim at a more relaxed pace and enjoy the scenery.


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: 18:00 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 meeting for 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 have a short journey to the start of a relaxed coastal swim along the Prvić Luka coast. It’s a great opportunity to get used to swimming both in a small group and in the open sea. After our coastal swim the guides video your swim technique above and below the water for a technique advice and video playback session later in the evening over drinks. The second swim of the day is our first chance to tackle an island crossing. We take on the short crossing to and from the Island of Lupac.

Day 3

Today is all about the Island of Tijat. We walk from the hotel to Prvić’s other town of Šepurine where we start our crossing to Tijat. The sheltered cove of Tijat is the perfect base for a swim technique session with the guides, before lunch. We have some time to explore Tijat’s forest trails by foot before heading to the eastern side of Tijat for a coastal swim with a short hop to Kamencia Island.

Day 4

It’s up early as we make our way out to the remote island of Žirje, the largest of the Šibenik archipelago. The water here is the clearest of anywhere that we swim during the week. The first swim is a coastal along Žirje’s North coast followed by a short island hop to the tranquil island of Mažirina. After lunch in Stupica Bay, we carry out a coastal swim, this time along Žirje’s southern shore.

Day 5

Starting from Obonjan island, watch the change of depth as we island hop across to the uninhabited island of Sestrica. On reaching Sestrica, we complete a full circumnavigation of its coastline with its shallow coral and rock formations before finishing back at Obonjan. We head to the island of Zlarin for a relaxed lunch and an optional walk up to the lookout tower and battery, used during the war of independence in the 1990s. From here there are stunning views over the week’s swim routes. Zlarin’s curved eastern coastline and sheltered coves are the perfect location to fine tune your technique on our afternoon swim.

Day 6

Today, we head to the eastern side of Tijat to start our first crossing of the day to Zmajan, also known as Dragon Island. After a hearty lunch and a chance for some rest, we will do our second crossing of the day, from Zmajan to Kaprije. After the swim we have a chance to explore the island of Kaprije by walking across it to the main village for a coffee or an ice-cream or just to relax.

Day 7

A relaxed start, as we make our way to a remote beach, where we will have a short swim to end a fantastic week of swimming.

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 'Leisurely' grading for people who want to swim at a more relaxed pace and enjoy the scenery.

Swimming Distances

Swim Distance
Prvić Luka Coastal 1½km
Prvić Luka - Tijat 1½km
Zlarin - Mažirina 1½km
Island hopping 2½km
Tijat - Zmajan 1½km
Prvić - Lupac 1½km
Tijat Coastal 1½km
Žirje Coastal 2km
Zlarin Coastal 1km
Zmajan - Kaprije 1½km

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
July 23-25˚C / 73-77˚F 26-30˚C / 79-86˚F
August 23-26˚C / 73-79˚F 27-30˚C / 81-86˚F
September 21-24˚C / 70-75˚F 25-28˚C / 77-82˚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.

  • If you are thinking about doing a swim trek... DO IT! You are not too slow, too unfit, too old, too young, you will fit in and have the time of your life!!!!

    Anne, K. GER- 2018
  • Great guides, great swim buddies, great water, great food. I didn’t want to come home.

    Louise, S. GER- 2018
  • A really memorable trip, I met some great people from all around the world. Kelly and Kresimir were fantastic guides whom I will always have fond memories of. Thankyou for such a wonderful experience of open water swimming, already thinking about another one.

    Maureen, L. UK- 2018
  • My SwimTrek holiday surpassed my expectations in every way and I want to do another one very soon. It’s the ideal holiday for someone who loves swimming; like a dream come true!

    Susan, W. UK- 2018
  • Just back from Croatia Short Swim trip. What a great experience, super guides. A real mix of adventure and relaxation. We had a great insight into the local way of life on a little island that I didn't want to leave behind! Looking forward to the next one!

    Jennifer, A. IRL- 2018
  • This trip represents terrific value, I'm already planning new trips for next year. The guides were sensational and Hotel Maestral is the perfect accommodation.

    Kay O, Croatia - 2017
  • This trip totally surpassed my expectations. The swimming, the guides, the food and the location were all fantastic and it was great to share the experience with a group of fellow swimmers. I will definitely be back for more!

    Sarah W, UK - 2017
  • Superb location, both the hotel and the clarity of the water. The trip exceeded my expectations and has inspired me to do more swimming in and out of the pool.

    Jo D, UK - 2017
  • Travelling with SwimTrek was a really fantastic experience. Our guide, Kelly was outstanding in every aspect. I will definitely be back next year.

    Katharina S, Germany - 2017
  • I went on SwimTrek as a "good husband". I do swim, but swimming is my wife's sport, not mine. However, now that I'm back from the Croatia Short-swims trip, I'm hooked and can't wait for our next SwimTrek!

    Ron W, USA - 2017

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

Be the first to find out about new trips

To be the first to find out about new Dalmatian Coast trips - join the mailing list.