Daily Sailing Trip to Island Cres

An Authentic Croatian Sailing Adventure

Taking a day trip to Cres Island by sailboat in Croatia offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. This experience, provided by JSAILING, promises a full 10-hour journey that’s perfect for those eager to escape the crowds and explore Croatia’s stunning coastline from the water.

What makes this trip stand out is the chance to practice sailing skills in a relaxed environment while enjoying the pure fun of swimming in wild, untouched nature. Plus, if you’re a foodie or love outdoor cooking, the possibility of a BBQ onboard adds a delightful touch.

One potential consideration? The boat lacks a toilet, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with basic boat amenities. This trip is ideal for adventurous spirits, sailing enthusiasts, or anyone craving a more intimate connection with Croatia’s coastline, away from typical tour buses.

Key Points

• Sailing and sailing instruction make this a hands-on experience for beginners and seasoned sailors alike.
• Wild swimming in secluded coves offers a chance to cool off in natural surroundings.
• The 10-hour duration includes time to relax, practice sailing, and enjoy scenic views.
• Private group bookings ensure a tailored, intimate day on the water.
• The cost per group makes this a great value, especially considering the personalized experience.
• Bring your own food and drinks for a customized picnic or BBQ onboard.

Overview of the Experience

This sailing trip combines the thrill of being on the water with the chance to explore Cres Island’s hidden gems. The journey starts from a designated meeting point marked by a large white crane and a green light at the harbor—easy to spot and straightforward to access.

Once aboard, you’ll notice the boat is equipped with sails, an engine, a fridge with ice, and a sun cover—everything you need for a comfortable day. The skipper and instructor, who speak English, are seasoned and eager to share their knowledge, whether you’re interested only in relaxing or eager to learn some sailing skills.

The trip’s highlight is heading toward a beautiful cove on Cres, where you can drop anchor and enjoy swimming in pristine, wild nature. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make for unforgettable photos and a true sense of escape. Back on the boat, the sails are often used on the return trip, providing a classic sailing experience, though the engine is available if wind conditions aren’t ideal.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Departure and Sailing Towards Cres

Starting in Moenika Draga, you’ll set sail with a skilled instructor guiding the way. The group size is private, meaning fewer crowds and more personalized attention. The boat’s sails and engine offer flexibility depending on the weather—if the wind cooperates, you’ll feel the thrill of sailing with the wind filling the sails.

The Cove and Swimming

After approximately 1-2 hours of sailing, you’ll arrive at a beautiful Croatian cove on Cres. This is the prime spot for swimming and relaxing. Reviewers mention that the coves are “wild and untouched,” perfect for a dip away from tourist-heavy beaches. You’re encouraged to bring your own food and drinks, making it easy to enjoy a picnic or even a homemade BBQ if desired—there’s a fridge onboard with ice to keep things fresh.

Practice Sailing and Learning

One of the trip’s attractive features is the chance to practice sailing skills under supervision. Whether you’re new to sailing or have some experience, the instructor makes it accessible and fun. Some reviews highlight that guests appreciated the opportunity to learn as they go, with the instructor offering clear guidance.

Return Journey

On the way back, you’ll often use the sails to glide home—a classic sailing experience—but the boat is also equipped with a reliable engine if the wind isn’t cooperating. The return route takes you through more picturesque coves, giving you plenty of opportunities to snap photos of Croatia’s rugged coastline.

What Travelers Love About This Trip

Many reviews point out the stunning views and the wilderness feel of Cres’s coves, which feel miles away from the hustle of city life. The ability to swim in pristine waters is a big hit, especially when paired with the opportunity to practice sailing in a relaxed, informal setting.

Another favorite aspect is the personalized nature of the private group experience. You’re not stuck with strangers, and the instructor can tailor the experience to your interests and skill level.

Food-wise, travelers appreciate that they can bring their own food and drinks, turning the day into a relaxed picnic on the water. While the trip doesn’t include food, the freedom to pack snacks or a full meal makes it flexible and cost-effective.

Practical Details and Tips

What to Bring

Since food and drinks are not included, packing a cooler with water, snacks, or a picnic is a must. If you plan to make a BBQ, bring your ingredients and utensils.

Comfortable shoes are recommended—wearing sport shoes or non-slip footwear will make moving around the boat safer and more comfortable.

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are important for protection during the sunny hours, and don’t forget your swimwear!

Boat Amenities and Limitations

While the boat is well-equipped with a fridge, ice, and sun cover, it does not have a toilet. Keep this in mind if you’re sensitive to that; it’s not a problem for most, given the nature and duration of the trip, but worth noting for comfort.

Weather and Wind

The trip is flexible: if there’s no wind, the skipper will use the engine to ensure you reach Cres and return on time. The sailing experience really depends on weather conditions, but the crew is experienced at making sure everyone has fun regardless.

Cost and Value

At $508 for a private group of up to four, the price might seem high for some, but when you consider the personalized experience, private boat, and all the amenities, it’s quite reasonable. Plus, you’re paying for the opportunity to sail in style, learn some skills, and explore secluded coves—an authentic Croatian adventure.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This trip suits sailing enthusiasts, adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those wanting a private, flexible day on the water. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with a small group or family and want a customizable, intimate experience.

It’s also perfect for people eager to learn sailing or simply enjoy scenic swimming in quiet, untouched spots. If you prefer guided tours with large groups or all-inclusive meals, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who value authenticity, personalized service, and scenic beauty, this sailing trip offers a refreshing way to experience Croatia’s coastline. The chance to practice sailing, swim in wild coves, and enjoy a relaxed, private environment make it stand out from more commercialized tours.

While you’ll need to bring your own food and be comfortable on a boat without a toilet, these are minor considerations compared to the value of a full day on the water with expert guides. The scenic views, peaceful coves, and the sense of sailing freedom create memories you’ll cherish long after the trip ends.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, sailing enthusiasts, and small groups seeking an authentic, flexible Croatian adventure. It offers a genuine taste of marine life, natural beauty, and sailing fun—an experience that stands apart from typical day trips.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat with sails and engine, fuel, instructor, sun cover, and fridge with ice. Food and drinks are not included, so bring your own.

How many people can join the trip?
The trip is for a private group of up to four people, making it ideal for small, intimate gatherings.

Is there a toilet onboard?
No, the boat does not have a toilet, so plan accordingly.

What should I bring?
Pack food, drinks, swimwear, sunscreen, sport shoes, and a hat. A camera or phone for photos is also recommended.

What happens if there’s no wind?
The skipper will use the engine to ensure you reach Cres and return on schedule.

Can I learn sailing during this trip?
Yes, the trip is run by a sailing school, and you’re welcome to practice sailing skills under supervision.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is approximately 10 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Is this trip suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on sailing, swimming, and a relaxed environment suggests it’s suitable for older children comfortable on boats.

To sum it up, this Daily Sailing Trip to Cres offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Croatian coastal scenery. It’s particularly well-suited for those looking for a private, flexible, and engaging day on the water, with the added bonus of sailing instruction and wild swimming. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just eager to experience the magic of Croatia from the sea, this trip delivers a genuine, memorable experience.