CROATIA
Improver Sea Kayak Trip
7 days - £1500pp
Soak up this European warm weather paddling paradise! Beautiful Mediterranean beaches, countless islands to explore, and a fantastic Dalmatian culture. The perfect accommodation based trip for the improver paddler. Embark on stunning day trips in the sun after a long dark winter!
2026 Dates: 21st to 28th March
An accommodation based trip for the improver paddler who is looking to explore this amazing destination with incredible day trips, and soak up some sun at the end of a dark winter!
​​
Price includes pre-trip online sessions and a preparation schedule so you get the most from the trip.
​
Led by highly qualified and experienced Paddle International guides, and supported by local in-country guides with expert knowledge
​
All airport transfers in Croatia organised and cost included.​
Hire boats arranged and included, organised with our in-country outfitter.
​​
Great quality accommodation and delicious meals included whilst on the trip
About the Trip
This accommodation based trip is for Improver sea kayakers (and above) who are looking to soak up some Croatian sun after a long dark winter, and explore this incredible Mediterranean paddling destination with stunning day trips.
​
From our accommodation base at the pictureqsue fishing village of Drvenik Vali, just a short transfer from the main city of the area, Split; our aim will be to paddle day trips exploring the stunningly beautiful island archipelago of the area, including Drvenik, Ploca and Solta - far away from the bustling tourist hotspots. With crystal clear seas, untouched nature, hidden beaches and secluded bays - this is truly one of the finest paddling destinations in the Mediterranean.
​
Day trips will be at an enjoyable journeying pace, prioritising exploration over mileage, travelling around 15-20km per day at most, making the most to explore the area at the same time. There are also options for short hikes for those that wish, along with lunchtime swims or snorkelling. We'll also explore the historical towns and villages of the region, including Trogir and Maslinica, to really soak up the culture of this incredible region.
​
Accommodation will be at local guesthouses and apartments just a step away from the sea, twin sharing (or double for couples). Single room occupancy is available at a small additional cost.
​
All meals are included on the trip, which will always be fresh local produce: a hearty continental breakfast; lunches of sandwiches, pastries and fruits; with dinner prepared by your guides or organized in a local tavern. The charming terrace of our local guest house will be a perfect setup for you to taste traditionally prepared evening meals, with all dietary requirements catered for.
​
​
​
​​​​​​​​​​Day 1: Travel / Arrival day, flying to Split. Airport transfer to accommodation
​
Day 2 - 7: Kayaking day trips (6 total) from our accommodation base at Drvenik Vali. Options include:
- Exploring historic old town of Trogir (also known as "Little Venice") and the nature reserve of Pantana
- Circumnavigation of the neighbouring island of Drvenik Mali, taking in the stunning Vela Rina Beach
- The south shore of Drvenik Vali, including Krknjasi bay ("The Blue lagoon")
- Solta island and the picturesque village of Maslinica
There are also options for rest and sightseeing days for those that wish.
​
Day 8: Travel / Departure day from Split, with airport drop off.​​
​
Outline Itinerary
About Croatia
​
Croatia is a small country with a population of around four million people, where English is widely spoken. It is often described as
“the coast with the most” being the most indented coastline in the Mediterranean (meaning endless opportunities to spend time on secret, pristine coves or long, pine-fringed pebble beaches). With over 1,200 islands (only around 48 of which are inhabited), eight National Parks, 10 UNESCO listed heritage sites (eight cultural and two natural), 115 Blue Flag beaches plus 20 marinas, and more than 150 dolphins who swim free in the Adriatic.
​
Our trip is based to explore the stunning islands to the west of Croatia's second city, Split where we will fly to. These islands are specifically away from the busy tourist areas, and the hustle and bustle - giving us an authentic experience.
​
Sea kayaking in Croatia is arguably world class in terms of offering one of the best winter paddling destinations for the UK paddler. The crystal clear waters of the Adriatic, abundant cetaceans and marine wildlife, glorious sandy beaches, and a rich local culture, with plenty of warm sunshine. The incredible archipelago of islands make it ​​​one of the most majestic places in the world to explore by sea kayak.
Who the trip is for
​This is a trip for the improver sea kayaker as a minumum, who is/has:
-
Some coastal journeying/day trip experience, and has also spent some time paddling in up to Force 3 winds and 0.5 metre swell.
-
Practiced the ability to get back in your kayak with assistance in the event of a deep water rescue
-
A reasonable level of fitness for days on the water, with the ability to paddle up to a possible 5 hours a day.
​​​​​
A pre-trip programme (see below), with the opportunity for discounted places on our coaching courses, and bespoke coaching opportunities will allow you to feel confident and ready for the trip.
​
If you are at all unsure about whether this trip is right for you, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.
​
Low ratios (1 guide to 6 participants). We are purposefully keeping numbers very small and the team well selected for the enjoyment and success of the trip.
​
​
​
Pre-Trip Programme
We will be providing some online sessions in the run up to the trip, which will include: Introductions to the team before we go, what equipment we will need, and final preparations. These sessions will all be about ensuring we can "hit the ground running" as a trip team, ensuring we get the most from our time in Croatia.
What's Included
​
-
A programme of online meet ups in the build up to the trip
-
7 Nights shared room accommodation, with single occupancy potentially available at extra cost
-
Storage of excess luggage during the trip
-
Airport transfers in Croatia
-
6 days paddling (with options for rest days or sightseeing if desired)
-
All paddling equipment, including sea kayaks, paddles etc. in Croatia.
-
Coaching, guiding and involvement in our risk management process
-
All meals whilst in Croatia.
-
WhatsApp group membership, with contact readily available pre and post trip to ask questions and chat with other team members
-
Emergency equipment, Satellite mapping and communications
-
Complimentary Paddle International Sun hoody
-
Access to discounts on some gear and clothing
​
​
Additional Costs
-
International Airfare and baggage fees.
-
Travel Insurance.
-
Any extra costs due to unforeseen circumstances.
-
Bar bills
-
Some personal clothing and equipment
-
Non trip meals (e.g. whilst travelling)
-
Optional trips and sightseeing tours on rest days
-
Tips
-
Snorkelling equipment
-
Single room supplement