Arrive in the ancient city of Zadar which dates back to Roman times to our hotel which is just a short walk from Zadar's beautiful waterfront. Stroll along the water to the gates of the old walled city and visit the Roman Forum – the largest on the eastern side of the Adriatic. Explore the city’s magnificent Romanesque churches and Venetian fortifications and be sure to visit the famous “Sea Organ”.  After an introductory briefing meeting in the hotel's lobby, we will enjoy our first dinner together.  

Overnight: Hotel A Mare

Meals: Dinner

After breakfast at the hotel, we hop on a van and head for the ferry to the island of Dugi Otok. The ferry ride winds its way through the pine-scented islands of the Zadar archipelago. On Dugi Otok, you’ll have your first Dalmatian coast paddle experience heading out from the village of Veli Rat and crossing to the island of Veli Lagann where you’ll first kayak over and then have the opportunity to snorkel the shipwreck of an Italian merchant ship that ran aground and sank in 1984. The clarity of the warm water makes snorkeling comfortable and the appeal of exploring a wreck at snorkel depth is undeniable. Paddling to the Sakarun Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Croatia, offers stunning white sand and shallow turquoise waters.   We travel a short distance to the rustic village of Verunic and our hotel. Dinner is in a traditional restaurant at the water’s edge.

Overnight: Gorgonia Apartments

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today's paddle offers a slightly different experience from the rugged west coast.  We set off by kayak from the secluded and exquisitely beautiful Sakarun beach and paddle down the  east coast of Dugi Otok where the vestiges of ancient terracing are visible on the green hills above the shoreline. Heading offshore we land on island of Zverinac, one of the smaller less-visited islands in the Zadar Archipelago.  The waters around Zverinac are clear and full of marine life, making it a great place for snorkeling.  Paddling across to Božava which is nestled in a deep, sheltered bay surrounded by lush forest.  Božava retains the charm of a traditional Dalmatian fishing village.  We will dine on the waterfront promenade, offering views of the sea and the surrounding hills.   Returning to Veli Rat to the Gorgonia to change before crossing to Veli Rat for dinner.

Overnight: Gorgonia Apartments

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today we explore the Kornati Archipelago, a collection of 140 islands that form the Kornati National Park.  One of the most impressive features we see are the Cliffs of Mana Island, which rise dramatically out of the sea.  As it is a National Park, it is protected with the waters rich in marine life.  The diversity of marine species provides plenty of opportunities for snorkeling with underwater caves and reefs.  Our evening will be in zman, a charming small village surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.  Time seems to slow down in Žman, so after paddling, we enjoy this authentic Dalmatian experience with fresh local seafood at a local restaurant.   After, we head back to the Gorgonia. 

Overnight: Gorgonia Apartments

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

We head north to Bahía Pantera which one of the most beautiful and protected bays on the island.  The waters in Pantera Bay are clear and shallow, making them perfect for snorkeling.  It is also home to the wreck of an old ship that sank during World War II.    Paddling further north we experience Veli Rat, located on the northernmost tip of Dugi Otok.  It is one of the highlights of this region with its mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.  With its iconic lighthouse and secluded beaches, rocky shorelines and clear waters, these are incredible paddling experiences.  Dinner is at a locally owned establishment highlighting fresh Dalmation cuisine. 

Overnight: Gorgonia Apartments

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today's paddle is on the northeastern coast of Dugi Otok.  Heading into Brbinjšcica Bay, rugged coastlines with impressive cliffs and caves surround us.  The bay is also famous for its sea caves which are worth exploring.    We then head just south to Savar, a small village on the scenic island with the same name.     As we circumvent the island, we catch great views of the village of Savar and the surrounding coastline.  Both of our destinations today offer more than just natural beauty.  The historical ruins, small stone churches, and traditional Dalmatian architecture add a cultural dimension to our Croatian adventure.   Catching the ferry back to Sibenik, we travel to Brodarica, where we will enjoy a variety of seafood specialties.  

Overnight: Villa Rosa

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

From a marina in Šibenik, you will paddle down the Krka estuary stopping to visit the imposing St. Nicolas Fortress that once protected the entrance to the city. Crossing the channel towards Prvic Island, there is a sunken ship eerily visible in the clear water before we enter the village harbor of Prvic Luka. This tiny village of red-roofed stone houses is the laid back essence of the Dalmatian Coast.

Overnight: Villa Rosa

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Paddling island to island through clear turquoise water, stopping at pocket beaches to swim, and stroll through small villages for refreshment is the idyllic reality of kayaking in the Croatia. The Šibenik Archipelago offers a seemingly limitless opportunity for exploration and enjoyment.

Overnight: Villa Rosa

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Cora Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

After breakfast, we have to  say goodbye!  There are a variety of options to transfer to the airport or bus station available. 

Overnight:

Meals: Breakfast

Tofino Expeditions was the highest rated sea kayaking adventure travel company in a National Geographic Adventure survey of international outfitters based on:

• Quality of Service
• Education
• Sustainability
• Spirit of Adventure