Croatia & Adriatic Sailing Adventure: August 16 - August 23, 2025

Afternoon: Explore Zagreb’s charming Upper Town (Gornji Grad), including the St. Mark’s Church and Zagreb Cathedral. Enjoy lunch in one of the local bistros offering traditional Croatian cuisine.

Evening: Stroll through Tkalčićeva Street, known for its lively cafes and bars. Relax and prepare for your road trip starting tomorrow.

Day 2: Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park (August 17)

Morning: Drive from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park (approximately 2 hours). Begin exploring the stunning waterfalls and lakes.

Afternoon: Spend the afternoon hiking the various trails of the park and enjoy the breathtaking views of the turquoise lakes and lush forests.

Evening: Stay overnight nearby and savor regional Croatian dishes at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Plitvice to Zadar & Coastal Exploration (August 18)

Morning: Drive to the coastal city of Zadar (approximately 1.5 hours). Visit the innovative Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun installations.

Afternoon: Explore Zadar’s historic old town, including the St. Donatus Church and Roman Forum. Enjoy seafood by the waterfront.

Evening: Relax by the Adriatic Sea promenade or enjoy sunset views from Five Wells Square.

Day 4: Zadar to Split (August 19)

Morning: Depart for Split (approx. 2 hours). Visit the famous Diocletian’s Palace, one of the best-preserved Roman palaces in the world.

Afternoon: Wander through the narrow streets filled with shops and cafes and visit the Cathedral of Saint Domnius.

Evening: Dine along the vibrant Riva Waterfront, and enjoy Split’s lively nightlife.

Day 5: Day trip to Hvar Island (August 20)

Morning: Take a ferry from Split to Hvar Island. Explore the historical town of Hvar, including the Fortica Fortress with panoramic views.

Afternoon: Relax on one of Hvar’s beautiful beaches or join a local boat tour around the Pakleni Islands.

Evening: Return to Split for the night and enjoy a quiet evening or a casual stroll on the waterfront.

Day 6: Split to Dubrovnik (August 21)

Morning: Drive along the scenic coastal road to Dubrovnik (approx. 3.5 hours). Check into your accommodation upon arrival.

Afternoon: Walk the iconic Dubrovnik City Walls and explore the stunning old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Evening: Try local dishes at one of the charming restaurants within the city walls and enjoy views of the Adriatic at night.

Day 7: Dubrovnik & Surroundings (August 22)

Morning: Take a short boat excursion to the nearby Lokrum Island for nature trails and secluded swim spots.

Afternoon: Return to Dubrovnik and visit Fort Lovrijenac and the historic streets filled with cafes and artisan shops.

Evening: Enjoy local wines in one of Dubrovnik’s rooftop bars overlooking the old city.

Day 8: Travel to Split for Sailing Course Start (August 23)

Morning: Drive back to Split (approx. 3 hours), the renowned Croatian sailing hub where your RYA sailing course will begin.

Afternoon: Settle into the sailing school and get a briefing about your 5-7 day course. Prepare your gear and meet fellow sailors.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at Split’s Riva Promenade or a seaside restaurant in preparation for your course.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Zagreb city tour: 4 hours, approx. $30 (entrance fees & transport)
• Plitvice Lakes National Park: 6 hours, approx. $45 (entry fee)
• Zadar attractions and lunch: 5 hours, approx. $40
• Split Diocletian's Palace tour: 4 hours, approx. $35
• Hvar ferry & sightseeing: 8 hours, approx. $60
• Dubrovnik city walls and boat to Lokrum: 7 hours, approx. $50
• Split to Dubrovnik and return transport: 7 hours, approx. $70
• RYA Sailing Course (5-7 days): 5-7 days, approx. $1,200 - $1,500 depending on length
• Meals & miscellaneous costs: Daily approx. $40-60
• Total estimated cost for 8 days (excluding flight): $1,570 - $1,900 (plus meals and flights)

Tips

If you wish to extend your trip, consider spending extra days on the Dalmatian coast exploring islands like Brač or Korčula before starting your sailing course. For a shorter itinerary, you can skip Dubrovnik and focus on Split and its nearby islands, allowing for a more relaxed pace before your sailing certification. Flights from New York or Boston usually arrive into Zagreb or Split, so book early for best prices and consider open-jaw tickets flying into one city and out from another.