31 independent reviews for Sea kayaking vacation in Croatia
Reviews for Sea kayaking vacation in Croatia
Curtis Koland review 9 Oct 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Michael Anderson review 24 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The paddling around the islands was superb. Our guide Spikey was amazing and the owners of the company (Ivana and Neven) were great to deal with and very professional.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be flexible about the weather if you are on a sea kayaking trip. High winds, rough seas and strong currents can't be changed, so be prepared to spend time hiking and exploring the area if paddling conditions are unsafe.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I think it did help the local people as we stayed in small family-owned guest houses.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
An excellent sea kayaking experience. Meeting the locals and learning more about their way of life was a bonus. The tour operator is a wonderful company, and I highly recommend them. If we ever return to Croatia, we'll use them again.Sherry Flannery review 18 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Staying inside Old Town Dubrovnik and touring from there.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Bring cash! visit Old Town mornings and evenings (before/after cruise ship crowds)3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
All of the above,Yes. No vehicles allowed in Old Town or on the island of Lopud. A lot of business run by family.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Croatia is the most beautiful place of all my many travelsElaine Butler review 21 Oct 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The scenery everywhere is breathtaking. Trsteno is so picturesque. Our guide, Johnny, brought every single thing we did to life with his knowledge and enthusiasm for nature, kayaking and his country.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
To enjoy the paddling, make sure you have a good level of fitness. If you are susceptible to mosquito bites, take protection. During our trip, Croatian Kuna was the preferred method of payment, card payments were not always accepted.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Staying in accommodation run by locals was fantastic. We also collected plastic from the ocean and beaches during our paddling expeditions. In addition, paddling between the locations for our vacation rather than traveling by boats meant we were not contributing to air pollution.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
An unforgettable trip during which we stayed fit, met new people, learned new and improved on existing paddling techniques, were served amazing breakfasts by our local hosts, supported the local fishing communities by eating their catches in restaurants and became aware of breathtakingly beautiful destinations.Mairi Hutchison review 3 Sep 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Having a terrific guide (Johnny) who took us to the most beautiful places - The Blue Cave; hiking to the fortress on Lopud to watch the sunset; rolling 2 days' kayaking into one as inclement weather meant we didn't go out one day.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Just go and enjoy it! Practically, aqua shoes are worth packing but you'll be provided with all other kit.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We stayed in locally run guest houses (very comfortable and welcoming) and ate in local restaurants.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It was brilliant- the kayaking, our guide, the places we visited and sights we saw, the local people, the food and the weather were all fantastic.Kirstie Allison review 19 Jun 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
From start to finish it was totally memorable! There were so many fantastic parts, from exploring Dubrovnik, taking the old ferry to the islands, friendly and welcoming hosts and our excellent guide Johnny. We spent hours kayaking around the beautiful Elaphite islands visiting caves and villages with amazing fresh seafood lunches. Johnny entertained us with his local and historical knowledge, and because it was just the three of us he also taught us how to get back into the kayaks if we fell in and taught my husband how to Eskimo roll! Johnny was so patient and kind, taking us up to the fort on the hill behind Lopud village, with amazing views of the Dubrovnik coast and out across the Adriatic. Our day kayaking from Lopud to Sipon was very memorable as there was a fierce thunderstorm with torrential rain. We paddled through the rain and waves with flashes of lightning and thunder claps but felt very confident in our guide to get us there safely, which he did.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
We trained for the trip and felt that really helped as we didn’t want to ache or injure ourselves. The paddling was at our level and we never felt rushed but it was good to know that we were fit enough to really enjoy it.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely, we were determined to eat local produce and spend money in the villages to ensure that it benefited locals. Loved La Villa restaurant, Konoba Riva restaurant and in Lopud (wonderful homemade bread) and Three Sisters restaurant in Sipon. So good we visited all 3 more than once! We were also very happy to travel by paddle power instead of speed boats or jet bikes, knowing the damage these can do to the environment and the sea life. We also really enjoyed the botanical gardens both at Trsteno and Lopud, beautiful cool tranquil green spaces.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
10 out of 10. Accommodation was excellent in Lopud, however the room in Sipon could do with shelves for clothes and hooks for towels and clothes. Drying wetsuits and swimwear was tricky. Hanging rails are fine but only 3 hangers make them useless. TV didn’t work (not a problem but would rather have had a fridge as in Lopud accommodation). Air con was excellent. Rooms were very clean. Breakfasts were lovely. Very friendly people. Loved it and will recommend to friends. Thank you Niven, Johnny, hosts and everyone else.Panagiotis Lefkaditis review 28 Sep 2021
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The islands during the kayaking2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Trust the agency they will take care of all the details3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
100%4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
5 out of 5 excellentJean Leslie review 29 Sep 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Delightful kayaking round beautiful coastal islands2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
No need to rush! Take your time to make detours, take photos, enjoy swimming and snorkeling too.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Good local guide, friendly hosts at guesthouse accommodation4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Linda Hardie review 16 Sep 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Lovely kayaking Thunder and lightning exciting!!!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Remember the sunscreen! Comfortable footwear, Insect repellent3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent.Helen Kent review 29 Jul 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Everything! It was all fantastic: well organised, excellent accommodation with very friendly and helpful hosts. The kayak guide, Johnny, was everything we could have wished for. Not only his kayaking expertise and concerns for our safety and wellbeing, but also for sharing his insider knowledge about Croatian culture, history and way of life. The islands were beautiful with crystal clear blue and green sea. The group gelled well together and we were sad when the week ended.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Book with this tour operator!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, it brought custom to the islands. Unlike the day trippers and cruise passengers who might not actually spend any money there, we stayed overnight and made use of shops and restaurants. Kayaks have zero emissions! We will also encourage others to visit these quiet, unspoilt islands and bring custom to the locals.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
See above, it was excellent.Luke Jeffery review 21 Jun 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The local people are so friendly and welcoming.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Get a good pair of wet shoes or wet boots. Croatia beaches are more rock than sand but the water is so clear. Also bring insect repellent. The guild has a waterproof camera and your luggage stays at the hotel/guesthouse so don’t worry about them getting wet.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
A great adventure on a few island. The guild and staff look after you. Also book a few days in Dubrovnik as well, it’s a beautiful town.Jane McBride review 12 Oct 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Memorable in a scary - and probably not something I would want to repeat - way was the very rough crossing from Lopud to Sipanska Luka on day 4. In calm seas the day before the paddle along the mainland after visiting the botanic gardens was idyllic.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Because one of us is vegan, we were given accommodation with self catering facilities on both islands. This worked out really well, especially in Eva's place on Sipan, and I would suggest doing the same if you have specific dietary requirements.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely benefited local accommodation providers and kayaking is certainly low impact.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Good but with reservations. The kayaks don't have skegs, which makes steering much harder for weaker paddlers like me. There are strong currents around the islands and the wind can always get up, so, although I appreciate the reason - skegs can be easily damaged - I think it's a mistake not to have them.Read the operator's response here:
Dear Jane,
Thank you for your feedback. It is great to hear that you enjoyed the activities, scenery and the accommodation. The last departure date of the season is always difficult to predict the weather. It can be very nice but it can also be windy. If you decide to join our tour again we will make sure that you have the best out of your vacation. We have been in operation since 2006 and we always strive to improve. Your comment is greatly appreciated. In most of the cases the sea is very calm and most of our clients prefer to paddle without skeg. For the next season we will have some kayaks with skeg for people who are used to paddle with skeg.
Carol Pritchard review 9 Oct 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Beautiful islands, lovely warm water and the best group of people to kayak with. Really enjoyed staying in the local guest houses too.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Factor 50!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, definitely benefited local people.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I would rate the vacation easily 5 star except for the last day which I would rate 1 star. Very disappointing end to an otherwise fabulous week when we were on the water for barely one hour - for no other reason other than it seemed to be what was best for the leader that day! Best day of the week weather, wind and sea state wise - should have been an excellent paddle but was finished before 11am - and certainly did not follow the itinerary. The itinerary did not say we were paddling the boats back to Lopud that day..... Was advised that we could have done self guided paddle in the afternoon - not what we signed up for. Also advised if we had said to the guide he would have taken us out for longer - completely disagree with this assessment as we were specifically told by the guide that whatever ferry (early or later) we took back to Sipan from Lopud, we would not be paddling for longer.Read the operator's response here:
Dear Carol,
Thank you for your feedback. It is great to hear that you enjoyed the activities, food and the accommodation. The last departure date of the season is always difficult to predict the weather. It can be very nice but it can also be windy. I am sorry that there was misunderstanding between the guide and the group. Usually the last day features a shorter paddling distance. This time it happened that the last day was the nicest weather, as the other days were more challenging. If the guide knew the group wanted to paddle a longer route he would have organised a longer paddling tour. If you decide to join our tour again we will make sure that you have the best out of your vacation. We have been in operation since 2006 and we always strive to improve. Your comment is greatly appreciated. In future, after the tour the guides will always ask the clients if the would like to paddle a longer distance.
Debra Vickers review 5 Oct 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The lovely people on our tour. The warm welcome from our hosts, and opportunity through our guide to meet /eat with local people2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared for the weather to affect your plans3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, I felt that the vacation was structured to benefit local people, and a good aspect was the amount of locally produced food and drink which we ate during the tour. I could not comment on how the vacation supported conservation.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Whilst I enjoyed the vacation overall, there were definitely aspects which were disappointing after reading previous positive feedback on Responsible Travel and Adria Adventures websites. On Day 2, our first day of paddling, we did not use the sheltered bay in Lopud for paddling techniques or safety instruction, or have the game of 'Picigin' at Sunj beach as the guides went home whilst we were at lunch. We were unfortunate to have bad weather on Day 3 which prevented paddling altogether. Following this the sea was quite rough for the next 3 days making paddling fairly challenging. The second guide went home after Day 4. On Day 5, 4 members of the group who were on the shorter vacation stayed on to paddle an extra day to make up for their missed day. The instructor/paddler ratio was 1/10. This was a rough sea with inexperienced paddlers in a single kayak for the first time and one paddler who was seasick and unwell, although on the whole the group kept together and looked out for each other. On day 6 we were down to the 6 paddlers who were on on the full weeks vacation, and did Day 5 in reverse. This was a very hard day and I struggled against the headwind and at times fell a long way behind with a couple of others meaning that the group was split with some considerable distance between us at times, and we could not have shouted for help had any of us capsized as the guide and rest of the group were often so far ahead. Both days 5 and 6 ended at lunchtime. Again we still had not received any instruction on paddling techniques, and none at all on rescue or capsize techniques, luckily there were some experienced paddlers in the group who gave good instruction to the rest of us, particularly on how to cope in rougher water, and on technique in general which was really helpful. Day 7, our final day, was a beautiful day with sunshine and calm water. However we only did slightly over 1 hours paddling to return the kayaks to Lopud. We were given the choice of returning to Sipan on the 11am or 3pm ferry, but even taking the 3pm ferry did not mean that we could kayak for longer, this aspect of the day was over by 10.30am. The description in the itinerary of 2 hours paddling and 2 hours swimming and snorkelling and exploring the islet of Rudet was not on offer. This was disappointing given that our paddling had been quite curtailed due to the weather during the week. Our Guide said goodbye on our return to Sipan at around 11.30am on this last day, which was essentially the end of the vacation. This felt like an early finish, and a missed opportunity to make up for the paddling lost earlier in the week, leaving us all feeling somewhat flat and disappointed. Whilst I appreciate completely that poor weather can and must change the itinerary and plans, the impression that particularly the group on the week long vacation formed was that 'end of season fatigue' had perhaps set in by this time. I still had a memorable vacation, and learned much on this vacation about the way of life in the Elaphiti Islands and got the opportunity to meet local people who were kind and welcoming.Read the operator's response here:
Dear Debra,
Thank you for your feedback. It is great to hear that you enjoyed the activities, food and the accommodation. The last departure date of the season is always difficult to predict the weather. It can be very nice but it can also be windy. I am sorry that there was misunderstanding between the guide and the group. Usually the last day features a shorter paddling distance. This time it happened that the last day was the nicest weather, as the other days were more challenging. If the guide knew the group wanted to paddle a longer route he would have organised a longer paddling tour. If you decide to join our tour
again we will make sure that you have the best out of your vacation. On the day where there were 10 people in a group, one of the guests from the shorter tour was a kayaking instructor. The group was never put in danger.We have been in operation since 2006 and we always strive to improve. Your comment is greatly appreciated. In future, after the tour the guides will always ask the clients if the would like to paddle a longer distance.
Lesley Ramsey review 6 Jun 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Battling the 3 metre high swells on the ocean side of the islands - something I had not expected. Quite shocking and something I will remember in my nightmares.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
If you are looking for a calm and relaxing paddle - don't take this vacation. We booked for a 7 days tour of the islands, we lost two days because of bad weather, and our last day our guide was taken away from us to help with another group leaving us 'high and dry'. A very regrettable end to our vacation.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, the islanders need the tourists to support their economy.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It was all good up until the last day when we got dumped. Also don't believe the company when they say "all rooms have en-suites". We ended up with a bathroom along the corridor. Both B & B's were charming, the food was lovely and in good weather the scenery would be amazing. I would have rated this higher had it not been for the disastrous last day.Read the operator's response here:
Dear Lesley,
thank you for taking your time to give us feedback on the sea kayaking tour. We have carefully studied your points. We are sure that two days of really bed weather contributed to overall picture of your stay. Ivan is very experienced guide and with you being intermediate kayaker, as well as other four members of the group, he judged that you can do the passage from Sunj bay to the other side of the island. The sea swelling can be mastered by intermediate kayaker as long as there are no ¨"white horses" on the sea . When the time passes this should be a kayaker s accomplishment hopefully. On the last day the guide was ready to take you kayaking, just the two of you, at four o clock and it is really pity you did not accept it, Afternoon kayaking with sun set are always the nicest. We are glad you enjoyed lovely dinner as a small compensation.
Tracey Agnew review 6 Oct 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Jumping out of the kayak and swimming into the Green Cave. We enjoyed all the kayaking and the opportunity to get to know the Elaphiti Islands2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
If you are vegan like me, make sure you take some protein bars/peanut butter etc. Both the islands we stayed on had small supermarkets, but there was very little I could eat. All the restaurants we ate at had vegetarian options (mostly pasta and veg), which were great, but I felt the lack of protein after all that kayaking!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, we stayed with local people. There is a real issue of plastic waste here as everywhere; although the sea is crystal clear, there is obviously a lot of plastic on the beaches. It would be good to see an overall reduction in plastic use in the places we stayed and more help to ensure anything we used could be recycled4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
We loved this vacation! It was really well organised with no surprise costs (all transfers were included and the meals that were provided as part of the cost of the vacation were good). I had read other reviews which prepared me for the fact that the kayaking was weather dependent (we lost two days paddling due to strong winds). We were offered alternative activities on days we couldn't paddle at no additional cost. Matti our guide was knowledgable and good funJohn Edwards review 17 Sep 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Visiting the gardens at Trsteno by kayak.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Don't forget a good waterproof case for taking a camera or phone in the kayak. Insect repellent can be useful in the evenings.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. We ate in small local restaurants and hired bikes locally.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Really good.John Edwards review 26 Aug 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Visiting the gardens at Trsteno by kayak.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Don't forget a good waterproof case for taking a camera or phone in the kayak. Insect repellent can be useful in the evenings.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. We ate in small local restaurants and hired bikes locally.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Really good.Colm Sheehan review 3 Jul 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Great Croatian company, fantastic hard working guide, nice variety going between 3 islands. Important not to kid yourself as if you’ve not kayaked in a few years like me you’ll be sore. But by the end of it you’ll be fitter, and oddly more relaxed but recommend booking a massage at the end of the island.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Factor 50 if your fair skinned like me, bring gloves or electrical tape, Ivan our guide had some as if you’ve got dove hands like mine you’ll be likely to blister. The electrical tape with some padding worked best as would last the day.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Well run, sympathetic to the local community, Ivan our fab guide looked after us well and was a valuable resource in guiding us to the best restaurants etc.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
FabNicola McMeekin review 18 Sep 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Kayaking amongst beautiful scenery2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Bring plenty of sunscreen and a water bottle. A waterproof camera bag is useful too.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I feel that it benefitted locals as our guides know the locals and helped us to integrate and they recommended good restaurants and places to visit4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent, knowledgeable and supportive staffElizabeth Pavey review 29 Aug 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Kayaking along the beautiful coastline, seeing caves, arches and spotting dolphins.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
If traveling alone just be aware that everyone might be staying at different accommodation so you may be walking back to your guest house on your own after dark. Take picnics some days as it's nice to eat at restaurants but also good to go at a leisurely pace and share a picnic.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
It was great to stay at family-run guest houses, eat at local restaurants and the optional meal at a local farm was a highlight of the vacation.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
This was a superb vacation. The location is great for kayaking and everything was really well planned and well organised. Everyone from was helpful and welcoming and went out of their way to make it a great trip. Kayaking from one island to another was a very rewarding way to travel and swimming into the caves was very memorable. The accommodation was good and we had lots of fabulous food. I loved the family-run guest houses, the fish, fresh figs, delicious grapes and local wine.Belinda Hopkins review 14 Aug 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The most memorable was the storm on the first day of kayaking & being rescued! Lessons were learnt that day - for sure!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Make sure you have some experience sea kayaking before you go. This is definitely not a vacation for beginners.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely - we stayed with local people; ate in local restaurants or farms.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Had a great time - we had lots of wonderful days out on the kayaks. The whole group got on and this also made the week special. We were looked after very well by our guides.Peter Austin review 13 Aug 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The islands we visited were beautiful, quiet, and full of interesting sights to explore.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Take plenty of sun cream, and/or plenty of cover from the sun:hats, long-sleeve tops.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. We did the whole week under our own steam: Kayak or walking. Our hosts were very welcoming.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Difficult to be any better. Everything seemed to have been well thought out, planned and executed well.Samuel Boulter review 17 May 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Really enjoyed kayaking through the cave2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Do it! We had a few others who were signed up that morning but backed out due to inclement weather. We pushed through and it turned out to be a beautiful day! If you have a big camera (DSLR), don't bother bringing it; you won't get a good opportunity to use it.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yeah I think so. It seemed to be a local company with workers from Croatia and it was nice to see certain sights via kayak rather than on a powered boat.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
ExcellentSophie Wynne-Jones review 24 Aug 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Paddling through crystal clear waters, snorkelling, great food and enjoying lovely company with our group. Particularly enjoyed eating at a local farm on Lopud, fresh produce and lovely family - really authentic night. Also enjoyed sampling wine at a family owned vineyard on Sipan where one of our group had her accommodation - top tip this wasn't on the official itinery but really fantastic!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
We really enjoyed traveling onto Mjlet at the end of the organised tour - which is an island north of the Elaphites and a National Park - stunningly beautiful and well worth a few extra days. Ivana was very helpful making suggestions for extra things to do... Lots of opportunities to get out and walk and explore the islands in addition to the organised kayaking - ask the guides for suggestions. If the cost of all the lunches and dinners are adding up pack a picnic! The Dubvronik area is very touristy, and whilst the cultural heritage is fascinating if you are wanting a quiet get away be prepared for lots of people on the first day if you visit the city! Also the whole area is very popular for yachts etc so if you are really wanting to escape perhaps look to less explored areas of Croatia to the North - but definately recommend a visit to this beautiful country!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Our tour operator makes a real effort to work with family run businesses - this showed with the accommodation and food options and was really nice. A bit more information on the local wild (and marine!) life would have been appreciated given that this was a kayaking trip - there was less of this than on other trips we have been on.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Very enjoyable - really different from kayaking at home and something that anyone would enjoy even if they hadn't kayaked before. The Elaphites are a really nice get away, great for families and perfect weather the whole time. Croatia is certainly worth a visit - but the further off the beaten track you go the better!Rona McCarthy review 5 Jul 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Getting out in the sea kayaks on the first day. Yoga lesson in some terraced gardens. Walking to a farm restaurant. Local Croatian fish stew.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be aware it is quite possible there will be days when you can't kayak. I had booked 6 days of sea kayaking and we only went out on the water on 4 days. Two of the days were because I pushed to go out ....otherwise the guide would have preferred we did land based activities. The reason given was the wind; I felt the company and the guide (who had very limited kayaking experience) were being unduly cautious. For the latter part of the trip I was the only client and have quite a lot of sea kayaking experience including in fairly rough water. However, if you are not that bothered about kayaking it shouldn't be a problem as there are opportunities to swim, snorkel, walk and cycle, The bikes we had in the second island were particularly good and the guide did her best to provide alternative activities.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, we stayed in two lovely locally owned and run guest houses. We used the local ferry for 2 out of three journeys, were able to drink tap water and used bicycles.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I was disappointed because I had really wanted to do more sea kayaking. However the guide was very attentive, capable and knowledgeable about the islands. The trip was reasonably good value for money and other activities were possible.Read the operator's response here:
Daer Roana,
We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your vacation with us overall and that you liked the houses and the meals.
Regarding kayaking, unfortunately the weather is something that we can not predict. All of our guides are certified for their job. However, safety of our clints is our prime concern. During the days when we arranged the alternative activities the wind speed was between 17 and 24 knots. We got the official warning from the Port Authorities that we must not run the kayaking tours that day. All boat and power boat trips were canceled as well. Please feel free to ask the offiel report from Dubrovnik Port Authorities about the sea conditions and red allerts on June 30 in Dubrovnik.
According to Beaufort Scale for kayakers, wind speed of 17 - 22 knots is considered to be 'Force 5' and wind speed between 22 - 28 knots is Force 6 . Below you can see a definition of the 'Force 5' and 'Force 6'
'Force 5: Intermediate kayakers stay in sheltered waters. On exposed waters, experienced kayakers will be in a high state of alertness, knowing that there may be the occasional heavier breaking crest and that it would be difficult to carry out a deep-water rescue. They will find it wet and hard work to go upwind. Some kayaks will weathercock badly unless fitted with a skeg or rudder, making it difficult or impossible to keep it on course for more than 30
minutes.
Force 6: At sea there are large waves everywhere, with continuous white horses. The Beaufort Scale was written for square-rigged sailing ships which considered winds of this strength to be a "strong breeze" but this is a yachtsman's gale. The occasional stronger gust will be enough to flatten a small yacht. Any remaining yachts and small powerboats head for home.
Vanessa hall review 10 Jul 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Hayley Cripps review 26 Jul 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The brilliant guide and the beautiful sun sets.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Try wild boar to eat.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, we stayed with locals. They were friendly and felt as though we were living among them.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Absolutely fantastic. Had an amazing time and started planning the next on the way home.Aly Thomson review 27 Oct 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Meeting a variety of people. The day paddling when we stopped for a picnic on the side of the island and were left to swim and relax2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
You need to really like Kayaking3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes it supported local people. All lunches were arranged in local restaurants Group tour to a local small farm where a lady cooked an amazing meal with wine and local brandies all enjoyed on her porch. Very traditional food made by a local.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It was good could of been a bit more opportunities to explore the coastline. Sometimes felt like it was just to focused in getting from A to BSuse Coon review 12 Oct 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
I can't choose just one thing. We live on the west coast of Scotland, which is arguably the most interesting and scenic place in the world for sea kayaking, so we were hoping for equally interesting places to see and stop off at, with just better weather! There were 3 occasions when our guide opted for safer or curtailed trips, based on his assessment of our abilities, but we still faced some tricky conditions at times, so that was exciting. I was a bit disappointed there were not more landing places to allow more exploration. That said, the relaxed atmosphere, lack of traffic on the islands and the friendliness of our hosts are the impressions that are staying with me.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Keep some energy sweets or bars handy! Ask about the implications of any changes the guide may make to the proposed schedule. For example, one day we waited for the weather to ease off but found ourselves with a 4 hour paddle across lunch time. There was nowhere to stop and we hadn't been told to bring food. I'd also recommend adding on a couple of days to visit Dubrovnik.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We weren't given any information about local flora and fauna but we didn't see much either. Kayaking in itself is a low impact way to see a place. We all liked being in smaller guest houses run by local people and finding out how they make a living the rest of the year. These were people who love their jobs rather than people who just work for money and that glimpse of their lifestyle was a very special part of the vacation. Don't upgrade to a posh hotel!4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Very good.Tori Lang review 16 Sep 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Most exciting part - the speedboat transfer in the dark! The most memorable - the whole week - beautiful weather, scenery, good company, lovely paddling...2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
take mosquito spray and cream for bites! If you're veggie or vegan take some protein bars or powder with you. (Local food for veggies is pizza, salad, grilled vegetables, or spaghetti with tomato sauce. You can buy fruit easily in shops. If you're vegan it's limited choice, but most cafes/restaurants seemed happy to help with variations to their menu - having a tour guide to discuss in Croatian helped.) you don't need to take hiking boots with you (most walking you can do in flip flops pretty easily) spend a few days in Dubrovnik while you're there, and if you get time, there's a lovely little coastal town near the airport too - Cavtat, that's a nice place to spend a few hours if you have a later flight. Although it said suitable for novices (and I would agree it was) I think we got more out of it as a group because we were all experienced kayakers. I think your experience of this vacation could vary quite a bit depending on who was in your group.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
yes. We were very low impact, stayed with locals, ate local food in local cafes. Flying there wasn't so good, but it's hard to get to Dubrovnik otherwise.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Fab! loved it and would do it all again in a heartbeat. Was sad to finish at the end of the week. Definitely up there as one of my best vacations.Holiday Reviews
You can trust Responsible Travel reviews because, unlike many other schemes, reviews can ONLY be written by people who we have verified have been on the holidays. In addition, we don't run these holidays ourselves - our only interest is giving you the best independent advice.
