Korula: Sail Away – tour with traditional craftmanship boat

Imagine setting sail on a vessel with a story that spans decades, gliding around Croatia’s beautiful Korula archipelago. This cruise offers guests a chance to explore multiple islands, enjoy crystal-clear waters, and indulge in local snacks—all aboard a lovingly maintained, vintage wooden boat. The MIAMI, built in 1973 by local craftsmen, is more than just a mode of transport; it’s a moving piece of Korula’s shipbuilding heritage, now refurbished to provide an authentic sailing experience.

What stands out most about this tour is its personal touch. From the knowledgeable guides, Vinko and David, to the carefully prepared snacks, you’ll feel like you’re sailing with good friends rather than just a tour group. The friendly, family-run vibe is evident from the moment you step aboard, making it perfect for those seeking a relaxed, intimate day on the water. The only potential drawback? Since it’s a shared tour, your experience might be a bit less private than a customized charter. But if you’re happy to share the beauty of Korula with fellow travelers, this cruise delivers true value.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love authentic, laid-back adventures—those looking to swim in pristine waters, learn about local islands, and enjoy simple, good-quality food. It’s not ideal for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness, but otherwise, it’s a fantastic way to see the islands from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Authentic Vessel: The boat “MIAMI” is a 50-year-old craft with a storied past, refurbished to give you a taste of Korula’s shipbuilding history.
• Relaxed Pace: The tour emphasizes leisurely exploration, swimming, and snorkeling, with plenty of time to unwind and soak up the scenery.
• Local Flavors: Enjoy carefully prepared snacks and cold drinks that highlight Croatian tastes, served aboard the boat.
• Multiple Islands: Stops include Badija with its wildlife and Franciscan monastery, Vrnik with historic quarries, and Sutvara with a pebbly beach, among others.
• Authentic Guides: Vinko and David are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge, enhancing the experience with personal touches.
• Value for Money: At $106, the tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and comfort, especially considering the inclusion of snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear.

A Deep Dive into the Korula Sail Away Experience

The Vintage Charm of MIAMI

The boat itself isn’t just a vessel; it’s a floating piece of Korula’s maritime story. Built in 1973, the MIAMI is a vessel that has seen decades of local life—fishing, leisure, and adventure. Its name, an acronym of the names of its builders’ children, adds a layer of personal history that resonates with the authentic feel of this cruise.

Guests love “the way the boat’s craftsmanship and history add to the experience,” according to reviews. The boat’s wooden hull, well-maintained yet showing its age, lends a nostalgic charm that big modern boats often lack. It’s not just about getting from point A to B; it’s about appreciating the journey as a part of Korula’s maritime culture.

Itinerary Breakdown: Islands and Swimming Spots

The tour starts in The Shell Bay of Korula Town, a convenient meeting point in the port area. Once onboard, the guides Vinko and David set the tone with friendly greetings and a wealth of local insights. They take you on a scenic cruise around the islands, stopping at four different spots for swimming and exploring.

Badija Island is often the first stop, known for its untouched nature and Franciscan monastery. It’s a peaceful spot where you can stretch your legs and take photos of the historic buildings amid lush greenery. The reviews highlight this island’s “wild animal nature,” making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.

Vrnik Island offers a glimpse into local stone quarrying history, with its golden quarries that supplied building materials for Croatia’s historic architecture. Visitors often comment on the “quaint, historical feel” and the opportunity to wander around the island’s quiet streets.

Sutvara Island boasts a crystal-clear pebble beach—a favorite swimming spot. Reviewers like Naomi mention that the “water was so clear,” making snorkeling particularly rewarding. It’s an excellent place to relax, swim, and soak up the sun.

Other islands vary depending on the day, but each one promises a different flavor of Korula’s diverse landscape, from lush greenery to rocky quays.

Swimming and Snorkeling: Crystal Clear Waters

One of the tour’s standout features, appreciated by almost all reviewers, is the swimming and snorkeling opportunities. The waters around Korula are renowned for their clarity, and with snorkeling equipment included, you don’t need to bring your own gear. Expect to see vibrant marine life and enjoy the feeling of weightlessness in the warm, inviting sea.

Guests have remarked that the time allocated for swimming is generous, often enough to relax and fully enjoy the water. The calm seas and transparent water make snorkeling accessible even for less experienced swimmers, provided they’re comfortable in open water.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

The carefully prepared snacks and cold drinks add to the relaxed vibe aboard the boat. According to reviews, the food quality exceeded expectations, with Michelle praising the “top quality local tapas for lunch” that was “delicious.” Vinko and David take care to serve drinks and snacks at just the right moments, often improvising based on guest needs and preferences.

The atmosphere on the boat is cozy and informal, fostering a sense of camaraderie among guests. Naomi even appreciated that the guides went “above and beyond,” like arranging a taxi boat for some guests and lending a corkscrew to another boat.

Pricing and Value

At $106 per person, this tour offers a very competitive value for what it includes: a scenic cruise, multiple island stops, snorkeling gear, snacks, drinks, and the company of friendly guides. Considering the high praise for the quality of the food, the time spent on the water, and the personal touch of the hosts, it’s a well-rounded day trip that won’t disappoint.

Practical Details

The tour runs in Croatian and English, making it accessible for most visitors. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with mobility issues—especially since swimming in open water is a key part of the experience.

Guests are advised to bring sunglasses, sun hats, sunscreen, and comfortable beachwear. The meeting point is easy to find in Porto U, and parking is available if you arrive by car.

Booking and Flexibility

With the option to reserve and pay later, travelers can keep their plans flexible. Cancellation is straightforward—up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible booking policy is helpful, especially if weather conditions change or plans shift unexpectedly.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

If you love authentic, relaxed boat trips that focus on scenic views, swimming, and local flavors, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a social, informal atmosphere and are eager to learn about Korula’s islands from friendly guides.

It’s not for travelers seeking private exclusivity or those with limited mobility, but for everyone else, it offers a memorable, reasonably priced way to enjoy the best of Korula’s waters and islands.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
No, it’s a shared experience, but the guides can sometimes customize the trip for private groups if requested.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, the skipper and fuel, snacks, drinks, and refreshments during the cruise.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is in The Shell Bay of Korula Town, on the main waterfront in the left corner of the port.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it suitable if I don’t swim?
This tour isn’t recommended for non-swimmers, as swimming and snorkeling are key parts of the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, beachwear, and your ID.

Is the boat comfortable?
The MIAMI is a vintage wooden boat that adds a nostalgic charm, though it doesn’t have modern amenities. It’s well-maintained and perfect for soaking in the atmosphere.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s not a private tour, customization isn’t guaranteed, but the guides may accommodate special requests for groups.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Guests praise Vinko and David for their friendliness and local knowledge, which enriches the experience.

The Korula Sail Away tour offers a charming, reasonably priced way to explore the islands from a different perspective. Its vintage boat, combined with friendly guides and authentic local touches, makes for a memorable day—whether you’re swimming in crystal-clear waters, wandering historic quarries, or simply relaxing with snacks and drinks on deck.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy laid-back adventures, love authentic stories, and want a taste of local Croatian maritime culture. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic escape with a personal touch, the Korula cruise is an excellent choice that balances tradition and comfort with stunning natural beauty.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this trip offers genuine value and a chance to see Korula’s islands in a truly special way.