SEA KAYAKING CROATIA

Transcription

1 SEA KAYAKING CROATIA SEPTEMBER 1-8, 2019 TRIP SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS Explore the Dalmatian Islands off the coast of Croatia Navigate dramatic Adriatic coastlines by sea kayak Discover the islands' unique history, including sailing on a "Gajeta falkusa" Learn the history of lavender production Savor Croatia's excellent food and wine Phone: Outside the US: Fax: info@goodadventure.com

2 TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Sep 1-8, 2019 Location: Middle Dalmatian Islands, Croatia Cost: $3, Activities: Kayaking Arrive: Arrive in Split, Croatia by 11AM on September 1 Depart: Plan flights home after 12:30 on September 8 TRIP OVERVIEW A quick look at any map confirms the important role of the sea in Croatia, past and present. Croatia's coastline stretches for over 1,000 miles dotted by more than 1200 islands. What better way to experience it than by kayak! We spend the first 4 nights on Vis Island, just far enough away from the mainland that it has not experienced the influx of visitors that other parts of Croatia have seen in recent years. We then spend time kayaking from Hvar Island, absolutely stunningly beautiful and, once away from the main city, surprisingly quiet. In addition to kayaking, we'll spend a day hiking on Hvar and another sailing on a "Gajeta falkusa", an ancient type of wooden fishing boat that is found nowhere else in the world. Our Dalmatian sea kayaking odyssey takes you off the beaten path and into the true heart of Croatia. Maximum group size: 14 RATING This trip is designed for women in good condition who want to combine sea kayaking with exploring the history and culture of Croatia. Some of our kayaking days are long (one is 11nM which is over 12 regular miles) so this is not an appropriate trip for novice kayakers. You must have some prior kayaking experience and be comfortable on the water as you may be paddling in rough or windy conditions at times. Both single and double kayaks are available - please indicate your preference when you sign up. If you have limited experience or do not kayak regularly, please choose a double. Rating: 1 2 [3] 4 5. WHAT'S INCLUDED A local certified sea kayaking and an Adventures in Good Company guide 7 nights double occupancy lodging in 3-4 star hotels All meals except for 1 dinner as specified on the itinerary Single or double sea kayaks with rudders, paddles, dry bags, and nylon spray skirt Ferry tickets from Split to Vis and from Hvar to Split and boat transfer from Hvar to Vis Group airport arrival and departure transfers on trip days A day of sailing on a "Gajeta falkusa" Gratuities other than for trip guides Not included: Airfare to and from Split, Croatia, beverages with meals, 1 dinner, guide gratuities, mandatory travel insurance.

3 OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 SEPTEMBER 1, SUNDAY Today our guides will meet you at the Split airport. We will take a 2- hour ferry ride to the island of Vis, our base for the next 4 nights. Vis is the furthest away from the Dalmatian coast, just 60 miles from Italy! Even during the summer Vis is still an idyllic off-the-beaten-path island, mainly visited either by yachtsmen or mainland Croatians who have family houses here. Inhabited since the Neolithic times, the Greeks called this island fortress Issa, which over many centuries evolved into Vis. After the Roman conquest, the island was ruled by a succession of empires, most notably by Venice, whose influence here can still be seen in marvelous public and private buildings. Since WWII Yugoslavia kept the island as a "closed" military base until 1990, so its flourishing fishing, wine-making and agricultural tradition was almost lost. But nature was allowed to flourish, preserving some of the best beaches and flora and fauna in the Mediterranean. Overnight in Vis, Hotel San Giorgio or similar. D DAY 2 SEPTEMBER 2, MONDAY After a scrumptious breakfast, we'll have an orientation to our kayaks and head out on our first paddle to a small protected bay of Stoncica. There's a wonderful, small restaurant here, where we will have our lunch. Then we continue past the historic lighthouse and several coves to Budikovac lagoon, one of most idyllic places to swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters. Before the sun sets, we will paddle to Rukavac bay where we leave our kayaks and drive back to Vis town. Tonight, we dine at a local farm-to-table restaurant. Sea kayaking approx. 10Nm. Overnight in Vis. B, L, D

4 DAY 3 SEPTEMBER 3, TUESDAY Today we continue our exploration of Vis' intriguing south coastline and carved limestone cliffs. Starting where we left our kayaks yesterday in the small bay of Rukavac, our first destination is the beautiful Green Cave on Ravnik island. Eons of ocean waves created this unique cave with two entrances. The ethereal light that bathes the interior walls is the result of sunlight streaming through an opening in the cave's ceiling reflecting colors from the pool of sea water inside. Pummeled by strong south winds and waves during the winter and being so far out at sea, Vis' southern coastline and carved limestone cliffs are amazing. One of the most stunning island bays is Stiniva, where we will paddle to next. From our sea perspective, Stiniva appears almost enclosed by two high rocky cliffs. In fact, at their closest point, the cliffs are just four meters apart. But between them is a treasure - a pebble beach accessible only after sailing through the 'gateway' that seems like entering a Roman amphitheater in stone. After a break, we continue finding coves, while admiring grottos and strange-looking shapes of rocks. Along the way we'll find a beach for a swim, before our paddle strokes take us around the Stupisce horn into the big bay of Komiza and our afternoon destination in the unique fishermen's town. We'll explore Komiza before driving back to our hotel to relax before dinner. Sea kayaking approx. 11Nm. Overnight in Vis. B, L, D. DAY 4 SEPTEMBER 4, WEDNESDAY We go back to Komiza in the morning. But instead of kayaks, today we have a unique opportunity to sail on a "Gajeta falkusa", an ancient type of wooden fishing boat that is a central symbol of a thousand year old fishermen tradition in Komiza and of Croatian maritime heritage. Known for almost magical maritime capabilities, Falkusa were able to cover the most distant fishing routes from Vis. Today only three vessels exist and only a handful of people are capable of navigating them. We start our journey from Komiza, but before setting sail, we'll learn about the ship, its purpose, shape, and form. We then set sail towards Brusnik island, listening to fishermen and pirate stories of this area. We anchor at Brusnik, an uninhabited volcanic island where nature flourishes, including an endemic species of black lizard. We will also see the Lobster area, a faulting that divides the island in two, where the fishermen kept lobsters. After our day away from the usual touristy routes, we return to Vis town for another delicious dinner. Overnight in Vis. B, L, D

5 DAY 5 SEPTEMBER 5, THURSDAY Today we say goodbye to Vis Island and load our equipment on a boat for the 2-hour trip to Hvar island. We paddle our kayaks through crystal clear waters to the hidden pebble beaches and lagoons of the The Pakleni Islands, a gorgeous chain of pine-wooded isles which stretch out immediately in front of the Hvar Town. Our route goes through narrow straits and along the islands. We will stop to swim, snorkel and relax, and then have lunch at a beach restaurant before returning to Hvar Town. Our home base for the next three nights has a rich architectural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and excellent food. As if all this were not enough, the town is also blessed with a great climate and one of the most picturesque views imaginable. Sea kayaking approx. 6 Nm. Overnight in Hvar, Hotel Pharos or similar. B, L DAY 6 SEPTEMBER 6, FRIDAY This morning we take a break from kayaking and hike on the island through the countryside and villages. Lavender production was once central to Hvar's economy and we'll visit a local lavender producer and learn about the origins and production of lavender oil in these parts. Then we hike down the canyon to Malo Grablje - a little village abandoned in the 1950s due to hardships of life. Walking the alleys between the houses that were once bursting with family life and now reclaimed by vegetation, you can almost hear children play or adults talking about making olive oil. Our efforts are rewarded with a tasty lunch in the special ambience of an authentic local in Malo Grablje. Our walk then continues down to a road where you can return to town for some free time or continue on a delightful hike back to town along the coast line. Hiking: 3-5 hours depending on the option you choose. Overnight in Hvar. B, L, D DAY 7 SEPTEMBER 7, SATURDAY Early this morning, after another hearty breakfast, we kayak east following the south coast of the island. On the way we visit beautiful bays and beaches, with dramatic limestone and red cliffs, and finish our paddle in Sveta Nedjelja village. It is situated on steep and sunny slopes of the island, an excellent spot for vineyards, so the place is known for its wine making. Our lunch includes wine tasting of the local wines. We drive back to Hvar Town and prepare for our final celebration dinner. Sea kayaking approx. 9Nm Overnight in Hvar. B, L, D DAY 8 SEPTEMBER 8, SUNDAY It is time to say goodbye to this gorgeous place and our new friends. We'll take a ferry back to Split and then transfer to the airport by 11 am for flights out after 12:30PM. B

6 ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE Split (SPU) is served by several airlines. We will meet at the airport. Specifics on meeting location will be in the predeparture document. On the day of departure, if you are having trouble finding a flight after 12:30pm, or have a little extra time, Split is a fascinating city and one that is easy to find your away around in. ACCOMMODATIONS We will spend 4 nights on Vis at Hotel San Giorgio ( and three nights at Hotel Pharos ( on Hvar Island. WEATHER High temperatures are typically in the mid-70s during the day and mid-60s at night along the Dalmatian coast. Rain is not common, and when it does rain, it is mostly in the form of light or moderate rain or thunderstorms. All day rain is very unusual. Ocean temperatures are still warm enough for swimming. TRAVEL INSURANCE This trip requires TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use as your location number on the Get A Quote page.

7 PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair Teva/Chaco sandals, river shoes, or dive booties for loading and unloading kayaks in water 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes, such as athletic shoes. Should be close-toed 2-3 pairs of socks (2 should be wool/synthetic) 1 pair thin socks (like running or bike socks) for use with your fins and water shoes CLOTHING 1-2 pairs of comfortable long pants 1-2 pairs of shorts: one pair could be a quick-drying nylon 1-2 lightweight, light-colored, long-sleeved shirts to protect you from the sun. A surfing shirt called a rash guard is great for sun protection while swimming and kayaking 2-3 T-shirts or sleeveless shirts 1 pair lightweight long underwear top: silk, wool or synthetic equivalent (Capilene, Smartwool, MTS, or polypropylene. NO cotton) 1 fleece jacket or wool sweater 1 rain jacket or parka: coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex Underwear/nightwear 1 wide-brimmed hat for sun and high fashion (a string tied to the hat will keep the wind from blowing it away) 1 or 2 sets of casual clothes for going out to dinner or relaxing Bathing suit (nylon shorts and a running bra also work as swimwear) EQUIPMENT/ESSENTIALS Passport and a photocopy of your passport Small day or fanny pack for hiking day to carry water, snacks etc Capacity to carry 2 liters of water: 2 one-quart water bottles (hydration systems don't work well for kayaking) Sunscreen and lip block with SPF of at least 30 Sunglasses (100% UV blocking) and retention strap Quick drying pack towel Watch, travel alarm TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, shampoo, contact lens paraphernalia (bring extras), sanitary supplies, soap, shampoo, washcloths (these are often not provided in Europe) Sunscreen and lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 (absolutely essential) Personal medications, if any. If you re taking a prescription drug, bring a copy of the prescription or its generic name Small personal patch kit : Band-Aids, Compeed or Second Skin, moleskin, cloth athletic tape, ibuprofen, personal medications, if any. Individuals allergic to insect bites must bring an anaphylactic kit. Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide OPTIONAL (not required, personal preference) Camera (extra battery) and film Book, notebook, journal, pencil/pen Earplugs and eye mask 1 or 2 bandannas Gloves for paddling - optional (bike gloves work well)

8 NOTES ON PACKING Dry bag: A dry bag will be provided bag for day use when kayaking. Wide-mouthed plastic jars are good for film, first aid supplies, and the like. Ziplock bags are handy for many uses. Clothing: All clothing for active wear should be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. NO COTTON for your active wear. The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. Raingear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Your wind/rain pants should be comfortable, allow enough room for your layers, and permit free movement of your legs (for example, can you crouch comfortably?). Partial or full-length leg zippers are useful for easily putting your pants on over your boots. An inexpensive plastic poncho will both leak and tear easily and is not recommended. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Bringing your camera on a sea kayaking trip: Ocean water is highly corrosive to camera equipment. To protect your camera from the salt, pack it in a waterproof sports bag. Many outdoor retailers and most camera shops have inflatable bags that are waterproof, float, and cushion your camera against bumps. Phoenix, Basic Designs, and manufacturers of whitewater equipment make inflatable camera bags. If you are using your camera as a phone, make sure you buy a waterproof case for it.