Croatia Bike & Boat: Split & the Dalmatian Islands by Yacht

Your vacation is about to begin! Spend your first night aloft and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.

A VBT representative will greet you at the airport to start your adventure off right. A complimentary car service brings you to your hotel in Split. So beautiful is its seaside setting that the 3rd-century Roman Emperor Diocletian chose this place as his retirement home; remarkably, his ancient palace still plays a central role in the city’s daily life, hosting shops and restaurants. There’ll be time to settle into your hotel before setting out for dinner on your own, wandering the labyrinthine warrens, passageways, and courtyards.

This morning, join a local guide for a private walking tour of Split, a modern city that has grown around the ancient palace of Emperor Diocletian. Even today, locals live and go about their daily lives within its millennia-old walls, surrounded by gleaming white stone quarried from the nearby island of Brač, which you will visit later. During the tour, take in the city’s highlights, including the octagonal Cathedral of Domnius, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings.

After the guided tour, meet your VBT trip leaders in town and walk together to the yacht. Check into your cabin as the ship sets sail toward Brač Island. Enjoy a buffet lunch on board, followed by a safety briefing and bike-fitting session, before setting out on a short warm-up ride upon arrival in Pučišća.

In the afternoon, visit one of the world’s few remaining stonecutting schools, where artisans shape stone quarried from nearby Skrip. This same stone has been used to build some of the world’s most famous structures, including Diocletian’s Palace in Split and the White House in Washington, D.C. This visit offers a rare opportunity to witness students honing their craft and learn about a nearly lost art form.

After this fascinating experience, gather on board for a welcome cocktail and dinner, marking the beginning of your unforgettable journey.

Today's Ride Choices

Afternoon: Warm-Up — 5 km (3 miles)

What to Expect:

A short loop ride just outside the town of Pučišća, featuring a single hill climb.

Cumulative Distance Range: 5 km (3 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, begin your ride from the picturesque town of Pučišća, a charming enclave on the island of Brač, often regarded as one of the prettiest villages in Europe. Cycle along the northern coast of the island toward the 14th-century village of Postira, nestled between the shimmering Adriatic and rolling hills. Along the way, pass through centuries-old olive and pine groves, immersing yourself in the island’s natural beauty.

Your ride continues to Škrip, the oldest settlement on Brač and the source of the stone used at the stonecutting school you visited yesterday. Here, visit the local olive oil museum to learn about traditional olive oil production and enjoy a tasting of delicious local products for lunch.

After lunch, cycle to the port town of Milna, home to the island’s most beautiful marina. There, meet your ship and set sail toward the stunning Pakleni Islands, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the Adriatic. End the day anchored under the stars, weather permitting, for a truly unforgettable night on the water.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Pučišća to Škrip — 23 km (14 miles)

Afternoon: Škrip to Milna — 21 km (13 miles)

What to Expect:

This ride is quieter and is on fully paved country roads. The route features a couple of hills, especially during the afternoon ride. The support vehicle is available back to the ship if you prefer to pass on the afternoon ride.

Cumulative Distance Range: 23 – 44 km (14 – 27 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, enjoy a scenic two-hour sail to Vela Luka (meaning “big harbor”) on the breathtaking island of Korčula. Renowned as one of the most beautiful Dalmatian islands, Korčula is also celebrated for its golden-hued Grk wine, produced in its sun-drenched vineyards. Your morning ride takes you through a striking landscape, with rugged karst hills on one side and the sparkling Adriatic on the other. As you climb, you’ll reach spectacular lookout points offering panoramic views of the coastline.

Midday, stop for a traditional Croatian lunch at the family-owned Konopica restaurant. Savor homemade Uštipci bread and indulge in peka, a flavorful dish slow-cooked under a cast-iron dome-shaped baking lid, a hallmark of local cuisine.

After lunch, continue cycling to the charming village of Pupnat, where a private shuttle awaits to take you to Grad Korčula, the island’s cultural heart and the alleged birthplace of Marco Polo. This fascinating town, set on a scenic promontory, was designed in a unique herringbone pattern to optimize airflow while shielding its residents from strong mistral winds during the summer. Its narrow streets are all stepped, except for the Street of Thoughts, so named because visitors can stroll without watching their footing.

This evening, enjoy dinner on your own in town. With its medieval charm, Grad Korčula—often called “mini Dubrovnik”—offers an inviting atmosphere and a wealth of excellent dining options. Your ship remains docked here for the night, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the town’s enchanting ambiance.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Vela Luka to Lunch — 38 km (24 miles)

Afternoon: Lunch to Pupnat — 9 km (5 miles)

What to Expect:

Today, you will ride on fully paved country roads with minimal traffic. The VBT support vehicle will be available throughout the day should you need any assistance.

Cumulative Distance Range: 38 – 47 km (24 – 29 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, sail to the mainland and the breathtaking Pelješac Peninsula, a region often compared to Tuscany for its renowned wine production. Upon arrival, hop on your bike for a scenic ride along the coastline before heading inland. Your journey ends in the charming village of Kuna, where you’ll visit a donkey farm and have the chance to snap some photos with its friendly, long-eared residents.

Afterward, take a private shuttle to the world-famous Grgić Winery, where you’ll enjoy an unforgettable hour of wine tasting, savoring some of the region’s finest vintages. Return to the ship for a relaxing lunch on board before setting sail once again.

This afternoon, cruise to one of the smaller islands near Korčula, where you’ll leave your bicycle on shore and enjoy leisure time to swim, paddleboard, or simply unwind with a book on the sun deck. In the evening, join a cooking class on board, where the chef will teach you how to prepare a beloved Croatian dish—one you’ll get to savor for dinner. Tonight, you’ll anchor under the stars, weather permitting.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Trstenik to Donja Banda — 23 km (14 miles)

What to Expect:

Upon docking on the mainland, begin your ride to Žuljana, then continue with a picturesque uphill climb to Donja Banda. Here, you’ll meet your shuttle for a return transfer to the ship. The afternoon is free of biking, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey ahead.

Cumulative Distance Range: 23 km (14 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, enjoy a short sail to Dominče, located at the eastern end of Korčula Island. Disembark here for a scenic ride along the breathtaking coastline before returning to the ship for a relaxing onboard lunch.

After lunch, set sail for Hvar, often hailed as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. A paradise of lavender fields, fruit orchards, fragrant pine forests, and stunning beaches, Hvar’s pristine landscapes await you on tomorrow’s cycling adventure. This afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through Hvar Town, where you’ll moor for the night. In the evening, enjoy dinner on your own at one of the town’s excellent restaurants, savoring the flavors of the Dalmatian coast.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Dominče to Račišće — 27 km (17 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride takes you along well-paved country roads, offering scenic coastal views. While the area around Grad Korčula can experience increased traffic during the peak tourist season, most of your route follows quiet, picturesque roads along the seashore. The VBT support vehicle will be available throughout the day should you need any assistance.

Cumulative Distance Range: 27 km (17 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Disembark after breakfast for a private, guided walking tour of Hvar Town, a medieval Croatian settlement with a strong Venetian influence dating back to the 16th century. Stroll through Saint Stephen’s Square, the largest Adriatic square after Saint Mark’s in Venice, and visit the historic Arsenal, built in 1612 and recognized as Europe’s oldest—and perhaps smallest—municipal theater.

After the tour, hop on your bike and ride through Hvar’s breathtaking landscapes, passing fields of fragrant flowers and herbs, as well as a dramatic, sparsely inhabited terrain crisscrossed by ancient stone walls. Along the way, take in sweeping views of the Adriatic, neighboring islands, and the mainland. The ride into Stari Grad, a charming Dalmatian town nestled at the end of a narrow bay, features a glorious four-mile (6.5 km) downhill coast. Originally founded in the fourth century BCE, Stari Grad (literally “Old Town”) boasts a main square lined with inviting cafés and restaurants, offering plenty of options for a leisurely lunch on your own. Take advantage of your free time to explore this historic gem.

In the afternoon, continue biking along a scenic route to Jelsa, passing vineyards and olive groves. At day’s end, your ship awaits you in Jelsa, where it will remain moored for the night. The journey concludes with a special celebration—the captain’s farewell dinner on board.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Hvar to Stari Grad — 22 km (14 miles)

Afternoon: Stari Grad to Jelsa — 13 km (8 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride begins with a steady four-mile (6.4 km) climb out of Hvar Town, followed by a scenic journey along coastal roads to Stari Grad. Upon arrival, your trip leaders will highlight several options for lunch on your own. In the afternoon, continue cycling toward Jelsa, following mostly quieter country roads. Along the way, one moderate hill climb rewards you with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The support vehicle will be available throughout the day should you need any assistance.

Cumulative Distance Range: 22 – 35 km (14 – 22 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, set out on a scenic ride to Stari Grad, where you’ll bid farewell to your bicycle. Upon arrival, rejoin your ship and enjoy a relaxing lunch on board.

After lunch, set sail back to Split, where your journey first began. This evening, join your VBT trip leaders for a special farewell dinner at a traditional local restaurant, reminiscing about your favorite moments from your unforgettable cycling adventure through the magnificent Dalmatian Islands.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Jelsa to Stari Grad — 22 km (14 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride takes you on a different route back to Stari Grad, winding through ancient groves of olive and pine trees. Upon arrival, meet your ship for lunch on board before setting sail back to Split.

Cumulative Distance Range: 22 km (14 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, travel by private motorcoach to Dubrovnik for a final overnight stay at a luxurious 5-star hotel. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours, with an expected arrival around noon. Upon arrival, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure—relax on the hotel’s private beach or explore the enchanting Old Town of Dubrovnik at your own pace. For sightseeing and activity suggestions, refer to your VBT city information.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After an included breakfast this morning, transportation to Dubrovnik Airport will be provided. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Please ensure you are ready in the hotel reception area at the designated time for your departure.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Meet your VBT trip leaders at the ship at 1:00 p.m. Your yacht will be moored at the St. Peter pier, next to the Jadrolinija Ferry Port in Split. Saturday departures will be operated by Alpha, while Wednesday departures will be on Futura yachts. Please note that embarkation is not permitted before this time, as the barge is being prepared for your arrival. If you prefer, you can meet your group at our pre-tour hotel in Split at 10:00 a.m., hand your luggage to your VBT trip leaders, and join a guided walking tour of the city. Your trip leaders will be wearing VBT staff garments.

After the walking tour, you will reunite with your trip leaders and walk together to the ship. In case of travel delays or changes, please contact the ship or the Heritage Hotel Fermai in Split, and the staff will relay your message to your VBT trip leaders.

Following embarkation, check into your cabin as the ship sets sail toward Brač Island. Enjoy a buffet lunch on board before participating in a safety briefing, a bike-fitting session, and a short warm-up ride upon arrival in Pučišća.

In the afternoon, visit one of the world’s few remaining stonecutting schools. The stone quarried from nearby Skrip has been used in the construction of some of the world’s most famous buildings, including Diocletian’s Palace in Split and the White House in Washington, D.C. This visit offers a unique opportunity to see students’ work and learn about a nearly forgotten craft.

After an enlightening visit, gather for a welcome cocktail and dinner on board.

Today's Ride Choices

Afternoon: Warm-Up — 5 km (3 miles)

What to Expect:

A short loop ride just outside the town of Pučišća, featuring a single hill climb.

Cumulative Distance Range: 5 km (3 miles)

Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner

This morning, begin your ride from the picturesque town of Pučišća, a charming enclave on the island of Brač, often regarded as one of the prettiest villages in Europe. Cycle along the northern coast of the island toward the 14th-century village of Postira, nestled between the shimmering Adriatic and rolling hills. Along the way, pass through centuries-old olive and pine groves, immersing yourself in the island’s natural beauty.

Your ride continues to Škrip, the oldest settlement on Brač and the source of the stone used at the stonecutting school you visited yesterday. Here, visit the local olive oil museum to learn about traditional olive oil production and enjoy a tasting of delicious local products for lunch.

After lunch, cycle to the port town of Milna, home to the island’s most beautiful marina. There, meet your ship and set sail toward the stunning Pakleni Islands, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the Adriatic. End the day anchored under the stars, weather permitting, for a truly unforgettable night on the water.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Pučišća to Škrip — 23 km (14 miles)

Afternoon: Škrip to Milna — 21 km (13 miles)

What to Expect:

This ride is quieter and is on fully paved country roads. The route features a couple of hills, especially during the afternoon ride. The support vehicle is available back to the ship if you prefer to pass on the afternoon ride.

Cumulative Distance Range: 23 – 44 km (14 – 27 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, enjoy a scenic two-hour sail to Vela Luka (meaning “big harbor”) on the breathtaking island of Korčula. Renowned as one of the most beautiful Dalmatian islands, Korčula is also celebrated for its golden-hued Grk wine, produced in its sun-drenched vineyards. Your morning ride takes you through a striking landscape, with rugged karst hills on one side and the sparkling Adriatic on the other. As you climb, you’ll reach spectacular lookout points offering panoramic views of the coastline.

Midday, stop for a traditional Croatian lunch at the family-owned Konopica restaurant. Savor homemade Uštipci bread and indulge in peka, a flavorful dish slow-cooked under a cast-iron dome-shaped baking lid, a hallmark of local cuisine.

After lunch, continue cycling to the charming village of Pupnat, where a private shuttle awaits to take you to Grad Korčula, the island’s cultural heart and the alleged birthplace of Marco Polo. This fascinating town, set on a scenic promontory, was designed in a unique herringbone pattern to optimize airflow while shielding its residents from strong mistral winds during the summer. Its narrow streets are all stepped, except for the Street of Thoughts, so named because visitors can stroll without watching their footing.

This evening, enjoy dinner on your own in town. With its medieval charm, Grad Korčula—often called “mini Dubrovnik”—offers an inviting atmosphere and a wealth of excellent dining options. Your ship remains docked here for the night, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the town’s enchanting ambiance.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Vela Luka to Lunch — 38 km (24 miles)

Afternoon: Lunch to Pupnat — 9 km (5 miles)

What to Expect:

Today, you will ride on fully paved country roads with minimal traffic. The VBT support vehicle will be available throughout the day should you need any assistance.

Cumulative Distance Range: 38 – 47 km (24 – 29 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, sail to the mainland and the breathtaking Pelješac Peninsula, a region often compared to Tuscany for its renowned wine production. Upon arrival, hop on your bike for a scenic ride along the coastline before heading inland. Your journey ends in the charming village of Kuna, where you’ll visit a donkey farm and have the chance to snap some photos with its friendly, long-eared residents.

Afterward, take a private shuttle to the world-famous Grgić Winery, where you’ll enjoy an unforgettable hour of wine tasting, savoring some of the region’s finest vintages. Return to the ship for a relaxing lunch on board before setting sail once again.

This afternoon, cruise to one of the smaller islands near Korčula, where you’ll leave your bicycle on shore and enjoy leisure time to swim, paddleboard, or simply unwind with a book on the sun deck. In the evening, join a cooking class on board, where the chef will teach you how to prepare a beloved Croatian dish—one you’ll get to savor for dinner. Tonight, you’ll anchor under the stars, weather permitting.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Trstenik to Donja Banda — 23 km (14 miles)

What to Expect:

Upon docking on the mainland, begin your ride to Žuljana, then continue with a picturesque uphill climb to Donja Banda. Here, you’ll meet your shuttle for a return transfer to the ship. The afternoon is free of biking, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey ahead.

Cumulative Distance Range: 23 km (14 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, enjoy a short sail to Dominče, located at the eastern end of Korčula Island. Disembark here for a scenic ride along the breathtaking coastline before returning to the ship for a relaxing onboard lunch.

After lunch, set sail for Hvar, often hailed as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. A paradise of lavender fields, fruit orchards, fragrant pine forests, and stunning beaches, Hvar’s pristine landscapes await you on tomorrow’s cycling adventure. This afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through Hvar Town, where you’ll moor for the night. In the evening, enjoy dinner on your own at one of the town’s excellent restaurants, savoring the flavors of the Dalmatian coast.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Dominče to Račišće — 27 km (17 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride takes you along well-paved country roads, offering scenic coastal views. While the area around Grad Korčula can experience increased traffic during the peak tourist season, most of your route follows quiet, picturesque roads along the seashore. The VBT support vehicle will be available throughout the day should you need any assistance.

Cumulative Distance Range: 27 km (17 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Disembark after breakfast for a private, guided walking tour of Hvar Town, a medieval Croatian settlement with a strong Venetian influence dating back to the 16th century. Stroll through Saint Stephen’s Square, the largest Adriatic square after Saint Mark’s in Venice, and visit the historic Arsenal, built in 1612 and recognized as Europe’s oldest—and perhaps smallest—municipal theater.

After the tour, hop on your bike and ride through Hvar’s breathtaking landscapes, passing fields of fragrant flowers and herbs, as well as a dramatic, sparsely inhabited terrain crisscrossed by ancient stone walls. Along the way, take in sweeping views of the Adriatic, neighboring islands, and the mainland. The ride into Stari Grad, a charming Dalmatian town nestled at the end of a narrow bay, features a glorious four-mile (6.5 km) downhill coast. Originally founded in the fourth century BCE, Stari Grad (literally “Old Town”) boasts a main square lined with inviting cafés and restaurants, offering plenty of options for a leisurely lunch on your own. Take advantage of your free time to explore this historic gem.

In the afternoon, continue biking along a scenic route to Jelsa, passing vineyards and olive groves. At day’s end, your ship awaits you in Jelsa, where it will remain moored for the night. The journey concludes with a special celebration—the captain’s farewell dinner on board.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Hvar to Stari Grad — 22 km (14 miles)

Afternoon: Stari Grad to Jelsa — 13 km (8 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride begins with a steady four-mile (6.4 km) climb out of Hvar Town, followed by a scenic journey along coastal roads to Stari Grad. Upon arrival, your trip leaders will highlight several options for lunch on your own. In the afternoon, continue cycling toward Jelsa, following mostly quieter country roads. Along the way, one moderate hill climb rewards you with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The support vehicle will be available throughout the day should you need any assistance.

Cumulative Distance Range: 22 – 35 km (14 – 22 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, set out on a scenic ride to Stari Grad, where you’ll bid farewell to your bicycle. Upon arrival, rejoin your ship and enjoy a relaxing lunch on board.

After lunch, set sail back to Split, where your journey first began. This evening, join your VBT trip leaders for a special farewell dinner at a traditional local restaurant, reminiscing about your favorite moments from your unforgettable cycling adventure through the magnificent Dalmatian Islands.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Jelsa to Stari Grad — 22 km (14 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride takes you on a different route back to Stari Grad, winding through ancient groves of olive and pine trees. Upon arrival, meet your ship for lunch on board before setting sail back to Split.

Cumulative Distance Range: 22 km (14 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, your biking tour concludes in Split. Your trip leaders will be available to assist you in arranging a taxi to the nearby airport or to provide guidance if you are continuing with your own travel plans.

Included Meals: Breakfast