Croatian Korcula Islands
Trip details:
- Duration: 5 Days (4 Nights)
- Tour Type: Island Hopping and Sea Coastal Swimming
- Average Daily Swim: 5 km (3.2 miles)
- Accommodation: 4* Hotel on the Island
- Escort: One Large Boat, Dinghies, Kayaks
Overview
This five-day swimming adventure is suitable for different levels of open water swimmers, as well as friends and family members. We also have a kayak to use for partners and friends if they want to come along. At least one of our tour guides is local and has a great knowledge of the region and speaks the local language.
Trip highlights
– swimming in the warm waters of Adriatic sea in Dalmatia,
– staying at seafront 4* star accommodation in Vela Luka,
– enjoying boat rides along Korcula and its islands,
– island-hopping swimming routes and stops in the bays,
– tasting local Croatian cuisine,
– exploring Vela Luka town, traditions and history.
What is included in the price?
Fully guided tour with comprehensive safety escort (escort boats, swimming guides, local boat pilot), swim coaching, technique & stroke analysis, 4 nights accommodation, all breakfasts, two lunches, and snacks on the boat. Each guest receives a silicone swim cap and a gift (swimming towel or water bottle). Should you require other swimming gear please bring it with you.
What is not included?
Travel to and from the start of the tour, evening meals, one lunch, drinks. Optional hotel single room supplement for the entire stay: from 120 Eur.
PDF: Trip Notes – Swimming Holiday – Korcula Islands
Video and Photo Gallery – Trips
Video clips
Accommodation
Seafront 4* hotel in the center of Vela Luka on Korcula island, Croatia.
Hotel Korkyra
Obala 3, br. 21
20270 Vela Luka, Croatia
+ 385 (0)20 601 000
www.hotel-korkyra.com
[email protected]
Google Map Location
Breakfast 07.00 am – 10.30 am
Dinner 07.00 pm – 10.00 pm
Check-in 14:00
Check out 10 am
Trip Advisor Reviews (#1 hotel in Vela Luka)
Extended stay (extra nights)
If you require additional nights’ before or after the tour, please book directly with the Hotel Korkyra. Email: [email protected].
Hotel-Korkyra-Korcula-Swimming-Pool
Hotel-Korkyra-Double room
Hotel-Korkyra-Double room
Itinerary
Brief itinerary:
Day 1: Meet at the accommodation at 6.30pm for the trip briefing. Optional dinner at the hotel.
Day 2: Drive to Proizd island, first swim and lunch on the Proizd island. Filming for stroke analysis. Afternoon swim from Meja bay to Gradina bay.
Day 3: Island hopping swimming. Morning swim from Trstenik island to Prznjak islands and afternoon swim from Zvirinovik island to Obljak island.
Day 4: Boat drive to Poplat bay where we do the first swim till Krnji Rat point. Lunch in the bay. Afternoon swim in the Zaklopatica bay.
Day 5: Morning 360 loop swim around Osjak island in Vela Luka bay. The trip finishes at around 10.30am.
Full itinerary:
Day 01
Arrival to Vela Luka. Meet your guides and fellow swimmers at the hotel lobby for a group meeting and trip briefing. We get to know each other and make a plan for the following days ahead. Dinner at the hotel. It costs 20 Eur and if you do not wish to be part of it, please inform us in advance.
Day 02
We begin our first day by heading out towards Proizd island at the end of Vela Luka bay. For our first morning swim, we start at Batalo bay on the north side and swim west towards the lighthouse followed by a turn east to Perna bay. We stop here for a tasty Croatian island lunch at a local restaurant. Before our afternoon swim, we walk across the uninhabited Proizd island to stretch our legs under the pine trees and then capture the best views. Your swim guides will also film your swimming stroke in the clear sea which is followed by video analysis at the hotel and supported by some tips on how to improve your technique in open water.
The second 2.5 km swim takes us from Meja bay over to Stracicnica bay and further to Gradina bay as we follow beautiful rock formations along the way. Boat ride back to Vela Luka.
Day 03
Today we are heading south to experience some of the best island-hopping swimming in southern Dalmatia. Our first three island crossing starts at Trstenik island heading towards Mali (small) and Veli (big) Prznjak islands. We swim a total of around 2.7 km. We base ourselves in the stunning bay for lunch on the boat followed by a short walk on the island.
For our second 2.5 km island-hopping swim we drive a bit further to Zvirinovik island. We start the swim on the northern side and swim all the way to Obljak island. We make a water drink stop at Gubesa island and regroup with each other. We often spot dolphins in this area. While going back to Vela Luka we enjoy warm drinks and snacks on the boat.
Day 04
After some great island hopping swims we are looking to explore some of the best remote bays of western Korcula which are only accessible by boat. Our first swim starts at Poplat bay heading south towards Krnji Rat point. Lunch at Trstena bay. After a nice walk in the shade we hop back into the Adriatic sea for our afternoon swim by continuing further south towards Zaklopatica bay. On the way, we stop at a small blue cave to capture some breathtaking views. What a day in the wilderness and adventure in paradise! On the way back we enjoy the magical views of Vela Luka bay on either side.
Day 05
Before we say goodbye to each other we go back for the final morning swim at Osjak island. We aim to do a complete 360 loop swim of 2.2 km. Return to Vela Luka for a final hotel breakfast.
Swimming info
Swimming Info
| Swimming locations | Distance (Km/Miles) |
| Proizd island (Batalo Bay-Perna Bay) | 2.2 km (1.4 miles) |
| Meje Bay – Gradina Bay | 2.5 km (1.6 miles) |
| Trstenik island – Prznjak islands | 2.7 km (1.7 miles) |
| Zvirinovik island – Obljak island | 2.5 km (1.6 miles) |
| Poplat Bay – Krnji Rat (Point) | 3.0 km (1.9 miles) |
| Trstena Bay – Zaklopatica Bay | 2.5 km (1.7 miles) |
| Osjak island loop (Vela Luka Bay) | 2.2 km (1.4 miles) |
| TOTAL: | 17.6 km (11.3 miles) |
Swimming Locations (Map)
Click for a Larger Map Resolution
Temperatures:
| Month | Water Temp.(°C/F) | Air Temp.(°C/F) |
| June | 22 / 72 | 24 / 75 |
| July | 25 / 77 | 30 / 86 |
| August | 25 / 77 | 32 / 90 |
| September | 24 / 75 | 29 / 84 |
| October | 22 / 72 | 24 / 75 |
Keep in mind that you can skip any of the swims you want and relax on our escort boat(s).
Walking Conditions
Walking on the trip is easy. In order to enjoy your walks on the islands, please bring comfortable walking shoes and suitable clothes, for summer temperatures.
Essential Equipment
We recommend you bring at least 2 swimming costumes, at least 2 pairs of swimming goggles (one clear and one tinted recommended), sweater/fleece, sun hat, small daypack, waterproof sun cream and jacket, light walking shoes and sandals or aqua shoes.
We also provide swim hats and other limited pieces of equipment, such as flippers, tow floats, rash vests, if required. We cannot guarantee availability of all sizes, so please bear this in mind and bring your own item if your swimming depends on this.
Group size
Up to a maximum of 18 swimmers.
Swimming awareness
Your safety is of utmost importance to us. In the event of adverse weather conditions at any of our swimming locations, we may need to adapt our itinerary. Our team always includes local guides who know the safest and most picturesque places to swim, so rest assured you won’t be missing out!
Swimming in the open sea amongst natural wildlife is a unique experience, but you may come across certain marine life such as jellyfish, coral and sea urchins from time to time. There are very few jellyfish along the Croatian Dalmatian coast and so the risk of any unfortunate encounters with them is low, and we will always show you the safest areas to swim. If you are stung by a jellyfish and are unable to carry on swimming, you will never be far from an escort boat where one of the guiding team will be able to treat the affected area immediately. If you suffer from anaphylaxis or any other allergic reactions it is important to inform us at the time of booking.
Itinerary changes
Please note that our swims are carried out in the natural environment and we rely on the current weather (wind and sea) conditions. As a consequence, small changes to the planned itinerary may be required on location.
Travel info
Start Point: Hotel Korkyra, Vela Luka, Korcula island (Croatia)
Start Time: 6.30 pm on the 1st Day
Finish Point: Hotel Korkyra, Vela Luka
Finish Time: 10.30 am on the 5th Day
Hotel Korkyra: www.hotel-korkyra.com
Flight search engines:
www.Skyscanner.net
GETTING THERE
The best way to travel to Vela Luka is by ferry (www.jadrolinija.hr) from either Split or Dubrovnik. You can also travel by bus from Dubrovnik (www.arriva.com.hr). Split has more daily ferry connections. See options, cost, and times below.
Ferry location in Vela Luka, Korcula island
The ferry port has changed in the 2024 season and it is now 1. 7km from the ferry port to our Hotel Korkyra. Walking is possible (25 min), but please bear in mind the summer heat. See google map route. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, but it is wise to prebook it with Hotel Korkyra reception in advance. The cost is 15 Eur per car.
Phone: +38520601000, Email: [email protected]
From Split Airport to Split port ferry line & Split main bus station
There are two bus lines that run from Split airport to Split town (ferry line and bus station). Both Split port (Jadrolinija ferry line) and Split main bus station are located at the same place. Once you land at Split airport you can travel to Split port (cca 30 min) with the local bus for 6 Eur per person. Buses in the summer go very often, usually every 30 min.
First bus option: Direct Shuttle Line Airport – Split port
https://plesoprijevoz.hr/en/split-croatia/ Booking is available online in advance.
Second bus option: Public bus transport – Line no. 37 (Trogir – Airport – Split)
http://www.promet-split.hr You can pay and buy a bus ticket on the bus (4 Eur).
Split airport (To and From the Airport) Info
http://www.split-airport.hr/
Interactive Split Airport Map
http://www.split-airport.hr/mapa/?lang=en
Local taxis are also available outside Split airport.
1) BY FERRY from Split to Vela Luka (Korcula island) by Jadrolinija ferry line daily.
Ferry times – summer 2024
GETTING THERE: Split to Vela Luka:
Daily 10.15 from Split getting to Vela Luka at 13.00 (Car ferry line no. 604)
Daily 15.00 from Split getting to Vela Luka at 17.20 (Catamaran line no. 9604)
Daily 17.30 from Split getting to Vela Luka at 20.15 (Car ferry line no. 604)
RETURN: Vela Luka to Split
Daily 06.15 from Vela Luka getting to Split at 09.00 (Car ferry line no. 604)
Daily 13.45 from Vela Luka getting to Split at 21.00 (Car ferry line no. 604)
MON-SAT: 05.20 from Vela Luka getting to Split at 07.30 (Catamaran line no. 9604)
SUN: 08.05 from Vela Luka getting to Split at 10.20 (Catamaran line no. 9604)
The cost for one way ferry is 10 Eur.
2) BY FERRY from Dubrovnik port to Korcula town (Korcula island) by Jadrolinija ferry line daily. And then you need to catch a local ground Arriva bus from Korcula town to Vela Luka town.
Ferry times – summer 2024
GETTING THERE: Dubrovnik to Korcula town (Korcula island):
Daily 07.00 from Dubrovnik getting to Korcula town at 09.00 (Catamaran line no. 9811S)
RETURN: Korcula town (Korcula island) to Dubrovnik:
Daily 19.25 from Korcula town getting to Dubrovnik town at 21.25 (Catamaran line no. 9811S)
Total cost one way: ferry (140 Kuna, 19 Eur) + bus (40 kuna, 6 Eur).
3) BY BUS from Dubrovnik bus station to Korcula town and then onwards to Vela Luka town by Arriva bus.
Usually, you can book Arriva bus online directly from Dubrovnik to Vela Luka (with a stop at Korcula). The bus costs about 120 Kuna (15 Euro) one way and it takes about 4-5 hrs.
Vela Luka – Dubrovnik bus daily at 5.15 am arriving to Dubrovnik main bus station at 9.55.
4) Private transfers or shuttle services from and to Dubrovnik
More details at: https://korkyra.info/car-transfers
All services are running daily in the summertime and all tickets can be purchased online or via app in advance to avoid missing out on the seat!
CLICK FOR A LARGER PHOTO OF 2021 TIMETABLE KORCULA-VELA LUKA & KORCULA-DUBROVNIK.
THE 2024 TIMETABLE SHOULD BE SIMILAR. FOR THE EXACT TIMES PLEASE SEE ARRIVA WEBSITE.
COVID – ENTER CROATIA:
https://entercroatia.mup.hr/
https://mup.gov.hr/uzg-covid/english/286212
THINGS TO DO:
Visit Korcula
Tourist board Vela Luka, Korcula
Once you are on Korcula island you can explore several places, villages, beaches and interesting sights. Either by boat, bike, bus or car.
Not far from Korcula island there are several beautiful islands to further explore should you have enough time to spend in the area:
Lastovo (National Park), Mljet (National Park), Hvar, Vis, etc.
Reviews
”What an amazing holiday we had in Croatia. Memories made for a lifetime.”
~ Catherine, Ireland, Sept 2023
>> Click on the photo to see a TikTok video!
The best holiday – take me back. 😍
~ Aoife, Ireland, Sept 2023
This time last week I was in Croatia for the most amazing swim trip! Words cannot describe it. The experience was just epic. Swimming is the crystal clear Adriatic Sea, with a group of amazing women and the wonderful expertise and support of the Strel Swimming crew.
~ Tracey, Ireland, Sept 2023
We had such a good time – we are coming back next year !!!
~ Liz & Chris, UK, July 2022
Korcula is a wonderful island in Dalmatia and away from other islands and the mainland. It feels remote and isolated, yet with all the great services around. This new Strel trip is amazing and different from others. Great guides and Hotel Korkyra is also top!
~ Jack, California, USA, July 2022
Fabulous swimming and exploring around Vela Luka and its nearby bays and islands. Adriatic is super clean and it was warm in September. Strel team delivered a super service as usual. Highly recommended to anyone who loves swimming in the Med.
~ Suncica, The Netherlands Sept 2022
Very memorable group of people and many new friends. We all love and share a passion for the sea and swimming! Join and discover this magical place! Borut, Luka and the boat captain were all fantastic!
~ Emma, Ireland, Sept 2022
Photos
Videos
