TRIP OVERVIEW

4 days
Short Escape
Up to 5km/day
Moderate

Trip Dates

2027
10 Jun - 13 Jun
Available
13 Jun - 16 Jun
Available
17 Jun - 20 Jun
Available
20 Jun - 23 Jun
Available
09 Sep - 12 Sep
Available
12 Sep - 15 Sep
Available
16 Sep - 19 Sep
Available
19 Sep - 22 Sep
Available
2028

MORE DEPARTURE DATES >

In a group of 5 or more? We'll help you to plan your trip

GROUP TRAVEL SERVICE >

Tour Highlights

  • Enjoy a short escape to sunlit Dubrovnik ('Pearl of the Adriatic') and swim beside the iconic city walls, viewing this UNESCO World Heritage Site from the sparkling waters of the Adriatic

  • Swim crystal waters, explore hidden coves and discover the lush green shores of the Elaphiti Islands: Koločep, Lopud and Šipan. A paradise of natural beauty and timeless character

  • Soak in the charm of Dubrovnik's Old Town: home to baroque architecture, medieval landmarks and maritime history. Wander through cobbled streets and sun-drenched squares.

Escape with us to the sunlit city of Dubrovnik, known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’. Popular for its spectacular sea-facing walls, baroque buildings and views over the Adriatic, Dubrovnik has a rich history, and well-preserved Old Town, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enclosed by ancient walls, the Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, charming squares, and magnificent buildings such as the Rector's Palace, the Franciscan Monastery, and the Cathedral.

A short ferry ride away, the Elaphiti archipelago provides a contrast to the walled city, with shimmering waters of vivid turquoise, hidden coves, and lush green landscapes. During this trip, we will also visit the small island of Lokrum just a few hundred metres off the city’s fortified coastline. There we will find lush botanic botanical gardens, historical ruins and tranquil beaches – not to mention colourful peacocks roaming free as well!

You will learn more about Dubrovnik (famously used as a setting in 'Game Of Thrones'), uncovering local history and cultural highlights, and swim outside the iconic walls. We also travel north to Zaton, which is a peaceful bay backed by pine-covered hills and stone villages. Its sheltered waters provide ideal conditions for relaxed coastal swims, while the quiet waterfront and local restaurants offer a slower pace of life as we take time to unwind.


Who is this trip for?

This swimming trip is ideal for those who are looking to combine interesting and varied swims with a bustling city break.

Swimmers should also have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average swim distance of around 2.5km prior to the start of the trip. The average daily swim distance is around 5km (split over a minimum of two swims).

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.


Are you a Pioneer?

We are excited to share our new Dubrovnik Short Escape trip for 2027. Our first departures will be Pioneer Departures. These are perfect for those who want to get out first to experience the relatively unexplored waters that await us. You will have the opportunity to explore the destination in-depth with an amazing group of swimmers, opening our eyes to the possibilities for future trips.


What's included?

  • Swim guides and full safety escort on all swims (swimmers only)
  • Three nights’ accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Lunches on days 2 and 3 (swimmers only)
  • Full ABTOT Financial Protection

What's not included?

  • Travel to and from the start of the trip
  • Evening meals
  • Lunches on days 1 and 4
  • Drinks and additional activities
  • Tourist tax

Sample Trip Itinerary

Please note that the below daily itineraries are an example of the swims that may take place during your trip, however, actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions. Your SwimTrek guides and local boat pilots 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 M

Start Time: 17:00 on Day 1

Finish Point: Hotel M

Finish Time: 11:00 on Day 7

Dubrovnik

Day 1

After meeting at the hotel, we will head down to the beach for your acclimatisation swim. We will then return to the hotel for a welcome drink and a safety briefing before discussing our plans for the few days ahead.

Dubrovnik

Day 2

Dubrovnik

This morning we start the day with a swim around the iconic city walls, enjoying a unique view of the old town. After lunch we will head over to the island of Lokrum, just off the coast of Dubrovnik for a coastal swim before heading into the old town. We will enjoy a walking tour in the old town, followed by some time to explore and enjoy dinner in Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik

Day 3

Dubrovnik

Today we explore the Lapad coastline west of the old town, including a short crossing to Grebeni Lighthouse. After lunch on board, we will continue our swim along the coast, exploring the crystal clear water and quiet bays. In the evening there will be plenty of time to head back into the old town to enjoy the local restaurants, bars and busy atmosphere.

Dubrovnik

Day 4

This morning we head out for a swim around the coast of Zaton, exploring the caves and untouched coastline. After the morning swim we head back to the hotel to get checked out and say our final goodbyes.

Dubrovnik

Reviews

Another memorable SwimTrek. Fantastic locations for swims in clear turquoise waters. Some interesting sea life - lots of star fish and an octopi on our last day. The guides were brilliant and met lots of lovely other SwimTrekkers. Highly recommend this trip!

Debbie W, UK - 2026

Even though I was the slowest swimmer, I absolutely loved swimming in Croatia and every single person and guide were fabulously encouraging.

Jenny W, UK - 2025

A unique experience mixing with others from all over the world with the same interest and just to have fun!

Robyn T, Australia - 2025

Accommodation

80a12d1703fe4c3dcee5de99ae9b9af5c858864a hotel m   itinerary images small
Hotel M

Get ready to relax after your sea swims in a peaceful setting, with views over Zaton Bay - a short 15-minute drive from Dubrovnik's Old Town. The seafront M Apartments are ideal for swimmers, looking for a moment of quiet above the cove. You can walk 10 minutes to a beautiful shoreside walkway and two beaches nearby as well. In fact, you can cross the street and swim directly out from the little local beach under the apartments too.

Location Summary

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, often called the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is known for its medieval Old Town surrounded by impressive stone walls. The unique combination of charming cobblestone streets, baroque architecture, and impressive views over the Adriatic Sea attracts visitors from all over the world.

Lokrum

The small, picturesque island just a few hundred metres off the coast of Dubrovnik is known for its lush botanical gardens, historical ruins and tranquil beaches, and the peacocks roaming free add to the island's charm.

Zaton

Just north of Dubrovnik, Zaton is a peaceful bay surrounded by pine-covered hills and traditional stone villages. Its sheltered, crystal-clear waters provide ideal conditions for relaxed coastal swims, while the quiet waterfront and local restaurants offer a taste of slower Croatian life.

Lapad

Located on Dubrovnik's leafy peninsula, Lapad combines beautiful Adriatic coastline with the convenience of being just minutes from the historic Old Town. Its seaside promenade, beaches and cafés create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, and its calm bays, rocky shores, and clear turquoise waters are perfect for exploring from the water.

Trip Grading

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Swimming Distances

Swim Distances Swim Distances
City walls swim 2km Lokrum coastal 3km
Lapad coastal 2½km Lighthouse crossing 2½km
Zaton Coastal 2½km

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

While there aren’t any significant planned walks, any walks that we do undertake will 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 20-25°C / 68-77°F 20-27°C / 68-81°F
September 21-26°C / 70-79°F 20 -25°C / 68-77°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. Therefore, 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

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

Boat support on this trip includes one main boat and two support vessels 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

For your basic, essential packing list, please visit our Packing List page on the website. There are no additional, specific items required for this location.

Food and Drink

All breakfasts and 2 lunches are included in your trip price (swimmers only) - however, dinners are at your own expense. This gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore and experience the local restaurants of your choice over the course of your trip.

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

Getting There

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 SwimTrek's tips to help you get the best deals for your flights page on the website.

The easiest way to get to the hotel is to fly to Dubrovnik (DBV), take a transfer to the ferry port (Gruž) main bus station, and a local taxi to the hotel. Alternatively, you can take a private transfer all the way from the aiport to the hotel.

Public Transport from the Airport to Dubrovnik and Ferry Port Gruž Main Bus Station

There are regular shuttles from the airport that stops at the old town Ploče gate and the main bus station at the ferry port in Dubrovnik (Port Gruž). You can find out more information and the bus timetable here platanus.hr/shuttle-bus. You can purchase an open return or single bus ticket online or at the airport from the Platanus agency counter once you have exited the baggage claim area. The journey takes around 30 minutes.

Taxi from Dubrovnik (Gruž Port) to Hotel

The easiest way to get to the hotel from the bus station is by Uber or taxi. There are plenty of Ubers available, and the journey takes around 15 minutes.

Local Buses

If you decide to spend some time in Dubrovnik, the local bus system is easy to use and affordable. You can find out more on the website, and you can download the app locally www.libertasdubrovnik.hr/en/timetable/1/city-timetable.

Private Transfer

If you wish to organise a private transfer from the airport to the hotel, please contact the hotel directly luxeviewpg@gmail.com.

Alternatively, you can get a taxi or Uber directly from the airport for around €60.

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 drinks, entertainment, souvenirs, etc. The local currency is the Euro €.

In some countries tipping (gratuities) is not part of the culture - in others it has become an expected norm. We believe that tipping is entirely at your discretion. If you have been provided with excellent service, 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.

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.

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 all EU member states, US, 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.

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.

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.

Travel Plugs & Electricity

There is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel where we stay in Croatia.

For a useful source of information on the different electrical outlets, electrical plugs, and electric sockets, please visit www.worldstandards.eu.


Related Trips