Overview
What's included?
- Accommodation: 3 nights on board a catamaran and 4 nights in a double or twin room in a 3-star Guesthouse in Luka Šipanska on Sipan Island
- Meals: 6 breakfasts
- The following activities are included in the holiday: 3 days sailing between islands, paddle boarding, cycling, snorkelling, sea kayaking, hiking (the order of activities is subject to change)
- The following destinations are visited during the holiday: Koločep, Lopud, Šipan, Mljet, Žuljana, Ston, Broce. Dubrovnik can be visited with ease during your stay on Sipan.
- Fully qualified skipper
- Equipment, training, and supervision for all activities with expert local guides
Please note: there is now a mandatory 80 euros per person fee to be paid locally and in cash, before the start of the trip. This fee covers fuel, water, moorings and boat maintenance.
Please note: flights and transfers are not included in this trip because just about everybody wants to add a day, days or even a week in Dubrovnik before, and/or after, the holiday. We will be delighted to arrange accommodation and transfers around the flights you choose to book for you. Please just ask one of our Travel Experts for suggestions and prices.
Each trip starts at 10 am from Komolac Marina. The marina is approximately 15 minutes by road from Dubrovnik and, given the morning departure, we recommend staying in the city the night before. Please see the 'Personalise' tab for more details.
From lovers of The Great Outdoors to history buffs, culture vultures to architecture admirers, sun-worshippers to activity-lovers, this trip has something for absolutely everyone.
Spending the first three nights on a catamaran, this trip will see you sailing the Elaphiti Islands, stopping at Koločep and Sipan as well as Mljet. We promise you crystal clear waters, traditional harbours and breath-taking views at each destination, and your crew will take you paddle boarding, snorkelling and cycling from idyllic spots along the way. What’s more, all equipment is free for you to use in your spare time during the cruise, so you can independently explore the stunning coastal landscape and the peaceful surrounding waters.
Your base on dry land is in the idyllic bay of Šipanska Luka on Sipan, where hiking, cycling, sea kayaking, and a relaxing beach day are all included in the itinerary. The castles, chapels and monasteries, and the romantic ambience of the bay all add to the tranquil nature of the island, providing the perfect spot for the remainder of your holiday.
Another great thing about Sipan is that its location makes it so easy to visit other destinations. Regular ferries to Dubrovnik and Lokrum mean that you can use your free time to take a day trip, and your itinerary includes a short ferry ride to Lopud for a hike through the island’s picturesque walking trails. Please note that visits to Dubrovnik from Sipan are optional and are not included in the price of your holiday.
Read moreDuring the week, you will have two different bases. The first is a catamaran, with a spacious sunbathing deck, complete with steps for lowering yourself into the sparkling waters of the Adriatic.
On dry land, you will stay in a 3-star traditional Guesthouse, in Šipanska Luka on Sipan Island. This means beautiful sunsets behind the harbour’s swaying palm trees, fantastic views of the azure bay and the beach on your doorstep.
Image Credits: Ivo Biocina and Croatian National Tourist Board, Huck Finn Adventure Travel
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Key facts
| Duration: | 7 nights |
| Pace: | Active |
Dates & Prices
We include more, no hidden costs
Departure dates: Saturdays and Thursdays from April to October
Prices
Next season’s dates and prices
| Departure dates between | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Sat 04 May 2024
to Fri 17 May 2024 |
Adults £ 1,170 To £ 1,310 | |
|
Sat 18 May 2024
to Fri 14 Jun 2024 |
Adults £ 1,340 To £ 1,500 | |
|
Sat 15 Jun 2024
to Fri 06 Sep 2024 |
Adults £ 1,450 To £ 1,625 | |
|
Sat 07 Sep 2024
to Fri 20 Sep 2024 |
Adults £ 1,340 To £ 1,500 | |
|
Sat 21 Sep 2024
to Sat 12 Oct 2024 |
Adults £ 1,170 To £ 1,310 |
Terms
For our full booking terms and conditions please click here
The Specifics
Holiday group size (approximate)
Minimum 4 people; maximum 10 people
Group Size
We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.
Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.
Minimum and maximum age
If a specific minimum age applies to this holiday, it can be found in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page.
Unless otherwise stated in the in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page, the minimum age for participation in an Artisan holiday is typically 8 years old (there may be younger children in some destinations who have booked with other companies). If an adult-only environment is important to you, then please contact our Travel Experts and they will advise on the best dates and destinations for you. If you are looking for a holiday designed specifically for families then please see our sister company www.activitiesabroad.com
Itinerary amendments
The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only, your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which are uploaded into your online account around a week prior to departure) or upon arrival.
Medical History and Advice
We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.
In order to give us the best possible chance to do this we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor’s note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.
In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.
Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.
Insurance
Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.
It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.
If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.
The UK Foreign Office Advice
Our clients’ safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice
We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.
The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/
The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html
If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients’ safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.
If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.
If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.
If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.
Booking activities locally
Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our ‘Terms and Conditions’ for further details).
When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern.
In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time. You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are properly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.
Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide’s phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.
Brexit information for British Passport holders
For the most up to date information on how the UK’s departure from the EU may affect your holiday please click here to view our Brexit information for British Passport holders.
Flight schedule changes and connecting transportation
On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.
Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.
Booking your own flights - cancellation disclaimer
If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.
If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.
Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.
Terms and Conditions
Our full booking terms and conditions can be found on our website: https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/booking-conditions
Agenda
Agenda
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DAY 1
Arrival, Koločep, Lopud and Sipan Islands
You’ll be setting sail from Komolac Marina which is just a few miles outside Dubrovnik. The arrival time is 10 am so we strongly suggest booking a night or two in Dubrovnik before the trip commences. We can arrange flights, accommodation and transfers to suit your preferences so please discuss the options with one of our Travel Experts.
At Komolac Marina you will be met by the crew, introduced to your shipmates and be given a safety briefing. Then, without any further ado, you’ll be aboard the 10-berth catamaran and heading out to sea and the first Croatian Island of your stay, Koločep.
There is plenty of room on deck to relax, watch the shoreline recede and enjoy the stunning views of the mainland mountains, the red roof topped towns and villages, and the islands shimmering in the Adriatic haze.
Koločep is one of the smallest inhabited islands that make up the Elaphiti Archipelago and with rocky inlets and sandy bays, it’s ideal for some pre-lunch water-based activities. The crew will dish out the paddle boards and you’ll have your first shot at this rapidly growing sport. The clear blue Adriatic waters are ridiculously enticing and there is plenty of marine life visible using only a snorkel. Grab one and simply watch Fishy World going about its business below you.
All this activity should, by now, have created quite an appetite and you’ll be well rewarded with the chance to enjoy lunch at one of the best fish restaurants on the islands (lunch is not included in the price).
With your appetite satiated by the bounty of the Adriatic, it’s time to work off a few more calories with a short walk under the cover of fragrant pine trees to admire Koločep’s impressive rocky shoreline.
There’ll be time for some sunbathing on deck and even a post-lunch snooze as the catamaran heads towards the islands of Lopud and Sipan this afternoon. This evening, the skipper will make anchor in a lovely bay around Sipan which is again ideal for swimming. Dinner is at your own convenience and we recommend asking a member of the crew for recommendations.
Included Meals: None -
DAY 2
Mljet Island and Pelješac Peninsula
If there is a more alluring island anywhere in the world than Mljet then we really need to know about it, please. When Mother Nature created Mljet she was on absolute top-notch form.
As you approach by sea, Mljet appears to be little more than a long grey rock, topped with lush green pine forests. However, as you draw ever closer, the island begins to reveal its secrets, especially at the North West tip. It is here that the forces of nature have combined to create two inland saltwater lakes, one of which, has its very own small island that is home to a 12th-century Benedictine monastery.
The catamaran will weigh anchor and you’ll have the opportunity to cycle to the lakes from where you can take a small boat over to the monastery. Please note that an entrance fee is payable to enter the Mljet National Park (not included in the holiday cost).
If you don’t fancy visiting the monastery and the lakes (inevitably, such a marvellous spot can get very busy) then why not enjoy some more activities? Paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming and hiking are all possible before you set sail towards the mainland and the Pelješac Peninsula. You’ll spend the night moored in a very pleasant bay close to Žuljana village. Again, the crew will be happy to suggest places to eat.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 3
Pelješac Peninsula
Pelješac is less accessible than the popular coastal resorts and has not witnessed the same upsurge in tourist numbers as elsewhere. Indeed, it is best known for winemaking, salt harvesting and its oyster farms.
The towns, villages and beaches also remain largely untouched so today you will be privy to what might be considered “normal” rather than “touristy” life on the Dalmatian Coast.
After breakfast, there will be plenty of time to swim, snorkel and paddleboard in Žuljana’s bay before sailing south towards Broce and Ston.
Ston is a delightful old town and the best vantage points are to be gained from the city walls (entrance fee payable locally). Once you’ve done that, why not wander the narrow streets, grab a bite to eat or linger in one of the cafes and watch the locals go about their business?
Don’t get too relaxed though. We would strongly recommend visiting the salt pans and trying out the delicious local mussels and oysters. Once that has all been achieved, it will be time to sail to this evening’s base at Broce.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 4
Elaphiti Archipelago and Sipan Island Cycling
After breakfast, you’ll sail east, enjoying fabulous views of the coastline and the Elaphiti Islands until you return to Sipan where the sailing part of your activity week ends.
You’ll be taken to your new base, a charming guesthouse in the fishing village of Šipanska Luka. The village is what Croatian island living is all about. Situated in a quiet and secluded bay, the seafront is lined with palm trees and old stone buildings with those archetypical red roofs. There’s nothing better than strolling along the seafront and stopping for a drink in one of the waterside cafés.
It’s even better in the evening when the sunsets. Croatian sunsets are unforgettable. You might want to grab a good vantage point at least once during the week to witness the entire western skyline turn to pastel shades of pink, red and orange. All the while, the giant orb of the sun seems to slowly sink into the Adriatic until it finally disappears entirely and darkness falls.
However, today, there is the small matter of the afternoon to fill before you can start thinking about sundown (and sundowners). Sipan is the largest of the Elaphiti Islands and the best way to explore is undoubtedly by bike.
There are very few roads on the island and, consequently, very little traffic, so you’ll be cycling today on what we might laughingly call “the main road” to Sudjuradj. The island is littered with castles, monasteries, churches and some seriously envy-inducing villas, so keep an eye out as you are riding along.
It’s only a few miles between the villages and those miles start with a short and steady climb out of Sipan. This is not a race so just find the easiest gear and the elevation gain is worth the effort as it brings you to a hilltop farm surrounded by olive groves, and with the best views of the island.
Enjoy the run into Suđurađ and take some time to explore the village’s narrow streets and lovely seafront (by now you will know the score: sleepy, quiet, palm trees, gently lapping water, stone-built houses…….it’s a tough way to live!).
Back in Šipanska Luka, why not take advantage of one of the guesthouse restaurants with their seafront locations and wonderful views of the setting sun? There are worse ways to end the day!
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 5
Free Day or Visit Dubrovnik
There is nothing planned for today but that doesn’t mean that you don’t have choices. You might just fancy a lazy session on the beach with the occasional dip in the crystal-clear water of the bay. Alternatively, there are regular ferries over to Dubrovnik or Lokrum which goes by the somewhat sinister alias of “The Cursed Island” (ferry costs are not included in the holiday price).
Sinister or not, Lokrum, with its monastery, its watchtower hillfort, its small lake (known as “the Dead Sea” – what happened on this island?) and botanical garden, is well worth exploring.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 6
Lopud Island Hiking
A short ferry hop takes you from Sipan to Lopud, yet another in a seemingly endless stream of picturesque, pine-topped islands.
Of course, from sea level, everything is up, but your gentle hike today is through shady pine forest before you reach one of the island’s highest points. There is a strategically placed watchtower fort which is a testament to more turbulent times but, the reason it was placed here is immediately evident. The views of Mljet and the Elaphiti Islands are simply gobsmacking and it’s fun to try and trace your sailing route from earlier in the week.
Back on Sipan, the evening is free to enjoy Šipanska Luka.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 7
Sea Kayaking
The placid waters of the Adriatic are ideal for sea kayaking and, not surprisingly, it has become a hugely popular pastime here. The Elaphiti Archipelago provides everything a sea kayaker could wish for in the form of small islands with rocky coves, inlets and quiet sandy beaches which are just begging to be explored.
You will be heading for three of the islands, Jakljan, Tajan and Olipa all of which are uninhabited and can only be reached by small boat or kayak. There are none of the large cruise ships or packed tourist boats, so the beaches are secluded and, provide the perfect platform for some fascinating snorkelling in search of the local marine life.
Alternatively, today, if you would like to spend some time in Dubrovnik, it is possible to enjoy a morning of kayaking and then head to the Old Town for the afternoon. It’s well worth admiring imposing fortress walls before spending an afternoon exploring the streets that they protect. Please speak to your guide today for further information; you will need to pay for the return ferry to Dubrovnik if you wish to travel there.
Sadly, that concludes the scheduled activities for the week. This evening will be your last on Sipan so make sure you enjoy that favourite dish one more time whilst watching the sun descend into the Adriatic.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 8
Departure
Today, you will be transferred by ferry from Sipan to Gruz Harbour, on the outskirts of Dubrovnik. If you need airport transfers to be arranged, please speak to our Travel Experts for further information. If you are departing today, flights should be booked from 10am onwards; earlier departures can be accommodated, but a supplement will be payable.
If you want to extend your stay in Croatia and/or Dubrovnik please let us know your plans and our Travel Experts will be delighted to offer advice and suggestions.
Please note: very occasionally, the itinerary and order of activities may be subject to change at short notice in response to local conditions and/or logistics. Your safety has to be our first consideration and, in the unlikely event that we do have to makes changes, our partners’ decisions in Croatia must be accepted.
Included Meals: None
Accommodation
Accommodation
Included in price
Catamaran
Nights: 1-3
The catamarans we use are all similar in size and layout, with slight variances in their design and extra bad capacity. The usual vessel layout consists of four double rooms all of which are en-suite. One of the double rooms also has an overhead single bed space, which can be accessed above the double bed. There is an additional single room which is occupied by the skipper and, one of the doubles can become a triple. Hence, the maximum people sleeping on board is ten and it’s most likely that it will be 8 or less passengers plus the skipper. Occasionally, two additional passengers will sail with the boat but stay in guesthouses rather than onboard.
You will doubtless spend more time on deck than you will below. With this in mind, the catamarans are designed with plenty of space for sunbathing as well as a seating area and a kitchen/galley (useful for cold drinkies!). Two sets of steps at the rear of the boat make it nice and easy to climb back on board after a refreshing swim or snorkel.
Very occasionally, the itinerary and duration of sailing and activities may change according to local conditions, events or guest preferences. Your skipper and his crew will make these decisions based first and foremost on your safety. In such cases, we reserve the right to alter the itinerary without prior notice.
Please note that the images shown are from the various different catamarans available.
Šipan Island Guesthouse
Nights: 4-7
During your stay on the laid-back island of Šipan, you’ll stay in a locally-owned guesthouse for a wonderfully authentic stay. Most of the guesthouses are situated close to the beaches or just a short walk from the seafront where you can dine on some of the traditional food of the Dalmatian islands.
Our local experts have inspected the majority of guesthouses in the area but your final accommodation will be confirmed at the time of ticketing. The locally-owned guesthouses are likely to include double or twin en-suite rooms, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi. Examples include but are not limited to Villa Lela (displayed) or Guesthouse Dubravka for a supplement.
Personalise
Personalise this tour
Our pick
Extend your stay in Dubrovnik
In order to ensure the smooth-sailing (pardon the pun) of your trip, we suggest spending at least one night in Dubrovnik at the start of your holiday, so you are ready and waiting to meet the boat at the set embarkation time on Day 1.
Komolac Marina is only a few miles from Dubrovnik, where awe-inspiring architecture, ocean views and ancient city walls are only a few of many reasons to leave yourself with some time here. With extensive knowledge of the area, our travel experts can suggest the best hotel and airport transfer options to suit your budget and preferences.
So, simply give us a call, speak to a member of our sales team, then relax and leave the rest to us.
Other options
Activities
Game of Thrones Filming Locations
If you’re a fan of HBO’s phenomenally successful fantasy show Game of Thrones and you fancy extending your stay in the Dubrovnik (which we highly recommend), then this is the tour for you.
This jaw-dropping city has been used in many a film and TV show but GoT has really put it on the map. You’ll see all the most famous locations which are used in the show whilst also gaining a full appreciation of the beauty of Dubrovnik.
Image credit: Ivo Biocina And Croatian National Tourist Board
Dubrovnik food and wine
If you decide to spend some extra time in Dubrovnik (we cannot recommend doing this strongly enough) and you’re a fan of food and drink, then this is the tour for you. Whilst you can, of course, explore independently, a tour such as this five-hour food and wine experience offers the chance to delve deeper than you could do on your own.
Read more about this activityWith a local expert, you will explore the flavours of Croatian cuisine and sample some of the region’s wines. You’ll visit some hidden gems and sample delights as you go. Lunch is included in this tour.
Of course, this is also a city tour and so your guide will also show you the iconic locations within this UNESCO World Heritage Site’s city walls.
Image credit: Boris Kacan and Croatian National Tourist Board
Private Sightseeing Tour of Dubrovnik
For the ultimate guided experience in Dubrovnik, we highly recommend this private tour. You will be shown some of the city’s most famous landmarks as well as some of the hidden gems.
You will walk the cobbled streets with your guide, learning about the city’s most famous residents and incredible past and incorporating architectural, artistic, cultural and historical highlights.
Image Credit: Ivo Biocina And Croatian National Tourist Board
Reviews
Traveller Reviews
We had a one week Croatia Active holiday, 3 days on catamaran followed by 4 days in guest house on Sipan. What made the holiday was the kitchenette in the guest house, meant we didn't have to eat out every night. Having a variety of options was great - walking, cycling, paddle boarding, kayaking.
Excellent holiday. Thought our skipper and Nicolina were both excellent and really added value to our holiday.
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