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

TRIP OVERVIEW

6 days
Coaching Camp
7km/day
Challenging

Trip Dates

2023
03 May - 08 May
Full
09 May - 14 May
2 Spaces
15 May - 20 May
4 Spaces
21 May - 26 May
1 Space
2024

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Tour Highlights

  • Ideal preparation for swimmers who are training for a 10km swim race or another marathon swim event

  • Support and encouragement from world-class coaches with extensive marathon swimming backgrounds

  • Fantastic chance to meet like-minded participants in a wonderful training environment

  • Soak up the wisdom of seasoned swim guides, with full safety escort on all swims and technique advice with in-depth video playback

  • Discover the unique Croatian scenery both above and below the Adriatic Sea

Whether you are preparing for an upcoming 10km swim race, a marathon swim event somewhere in the world, or simply want to challenge yourself, this open water swim coaching camp is the ideal way to ensure that both your body and your mind are prepared for the challenges that you’ll face as you push yourself to 10km and beyond.

With a team of experienced marathon swimmers to support you throughout the camp, this six days of open water coaching includes video analysis of your swim technique, as well as key coaching points to improve your overall performance in the water. Q&A sessions with your SwimTrek coaches give you a fantastic opportunity to discuss your progress and focus on future training needs. After building up the swim distances over the first few days, you will have the chance to complete a full 10km swim to truly gauge the improvement that you’ve made throughout your time in the water.

Our accommodation in the town of Porto Petro overlooks the marina and is close to swim locations, which helps to optimise the mix of coaching and relaxation time throughout your trip.


Who is this trip for?

This coaching camp is ideal for swimmers who are planning to take part in an open water marathon swim event of up to 15km, or those who are looking to challenge themselves in a safe and supportive open water environment.

Whether your marathon swim is in cold water, warm water, in the sea or in a lake, this camp is perfect for those who are looking to improve their stroke and endurance under the watchful eye of our experienced coaches. The camp features long and short open water swims with full safety cover, and incorporates technical analysis and a nutrition seminar over the course of your stay. Swimmers should also have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average daily swim distance of around 4 km prior to the start of the trip. The average daily swim distance is around 7km (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.

If you are training for an endurance Long Distance event, like an English Channel solo swim, or similar ultra-marathon, please check out our Channel and Long Distance Training Camp on the Dalmatian Coast.


What's Included

  • Fully guided swimming holiday in Croatia
  • Seasoned swim guides and full safety escort on all swims
  • Expert technique advice with video playback
  • Five 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 coaching camp, however, actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and sea conditions. Your SwimTrek coaches 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 6

Day 1

We meet at the apartments in Hotel Maestral for a safety briefing and to discuss the plans for the days ahead. After discussing the swim schedule, we hit the water for the first time for our acclimatisation swim. The coaches will spend time with you discussing your aims and objectives for the week.

Day 2 (Daily Swim Distance: Up to 6km)

Today we will be coaching you through 6km of swimming, with a 4km swim in the morning and a 2km swim in the afternoon. Our initial swim takes us along the coast to the sheltered bay of Sepurine and will be the base for a technique videoing session. The coaches will video your stroke above and below the water to provide advice on later in the evening over drinks. After lunch, the second swim will take place on the neighbouring island, Tijat. You will follow the coast to 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.

Day 3 (Daily Swim Distance: Up to 7km)

Today we travel to Kaprije for a big day of swimming. We build our endurance with a 5km morning swim and a further 2km after a well-earned lunch on the boat.

Day 4 (Daily Swim Distance: Up to 4km)

Today we head along to coast of Zlarin, with its rugged coastline and fertile interior. 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, after a relaxed lunch you may be able to walk (2km) up to the island’s lookout tower which gives stunning views over the island. In the afternoon we will head back to Serpurine Bay to follow up on your stroke technique and to work on open water skills, with an optional swim to return back to the hotel. This is followed by a seminar on nutritional advice and feeding techniques.

Day 5 (Daily Swim Distance: Up to 10km)

The Big One! After the preparation, practice, advice and training of the past few days, this swim gives you the opportunity to bring it all together and complete a marathon swim of 10km. To optimise your experience, the precise swim location will be selected based on prevailing weather conditions. We will provide full safety boat cover, with nutritional support during your swim. Once you’ve had time to shower and recover, time will be set aside for a full Q&A session with your SwimTrek coaches.

Day 6

There’s time for one more morning swim session before the camp ends. We swim as a group and it is an excellent time to work on your technique and swap any final information with your fellow guests and SwimTrek coaches.

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 Coastal 4km
Tjat 2km
Zmajan 5km
Zmajan 2km
Zlarin 4km
Sepurine Bay - Hotel (optional) 2km
Prvić 10km
Prvić 750m

Swimming Circuits

Due to the nature of this coaching camp and the wide range of distances that will be covered by different members of the group, most of our swims take place around a series of circuits in locals bays. Circuit swims allow you to complete your training at your own pace with full safety cover at all times.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the sea is a fantastic experience, however you should be aware that certain marine life such as jellyfish, sea lice, 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.

Temperatures

Month Water Temperature* Air Temperature*
May 18-20˚C / 64-68°F 17-21˚C / 63-70°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 coaches as quickly as possible.

Camp Information

Group Size and Boat Support

This coaching camp has a maximum group size of 16 with a coach/swimmer ratio of approximately 1:5. The group will be accompanied by SwimTrek coaches for coaching and safety support at all times.

Boat support on this camp includes one main boat and two inflatable boats to be piloted by your SwimTrek coaches 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) Towels
Swimming Goggles (x 2)* Small Daypack
High Factor, Water Resistant Sun Cream Waterproof Trousers / Jacket
Gloves and Warm Socks Sweater / Fleece / Woolly Hat
Swim Earplugs (if you use them) Specific Nutrition (optional)
Tracksuit Trousers / Sweatpants Waterproof Watch
Thermal Underwear / Base Layers Aqua Shoes
Personal Drink Bottle (x2)

For more information, please visit our Packing List page on the website.

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

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

Breakfast and lunch are included on this training camp. You will also stay in self catered apartments offering more dinner options. 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.

  • Loved the company, the guides, the challenge and really well organised. Overall a great experience.

    Stephen D, Ireland - 2022
  • It was the best week. I was pretty nervous and definitely didn't think I'd be able to manage the 10k, but the guides were incredible, the sea was beautiful, the other swimmers were the best company and completing the 10k swim at the end of the trip was just the most brilliant feeling!

    Alice B, UK - 2022

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