I had a wonderful time. The cruise was amazing...beautiful food, friendly staff and excellent hike guidance by Marte and Andro. I can't say enough to thank everyone for looking after me so well.
- Sue Ashmore, 27/10/2024 07:58, Travelled Solo
I booked the Hiking Split Return South route for my 50th birthday and it exceeded all of my expectations. My husband and I were on the Columbo and our guides Mate and Karla were awesome. They were knowledgeable and fun and you could tell that they were passionate about Croatia and hiking. The food was great, the swim stops were fun and I haven't laughed that much on a trip ever. We had a great group of like minded people from around the world who made every day fun. From the captain to the crew and especially our guides Mate and Karla, we all felt very well taken care of onboard and off. I would highly recommend Sail Croatia and will definitely book another trip with them in the future. Lindsie & Curtis (Vancouver, BC, Canada)
- Lindsie, 10/10/2024 17:10, Travelled in a Couple
The Sail Croatia hike week gave us exactly what we were hoping for and more. A week sailing between beautiful islands (on Columbo), interesting hikes each day, like-minded people on the trip (some of which will become life-long friends), good food and local tips for each island, regular swim stops and a whole lot of fun and laughter. Our tour guides Mate and Karla provided expert guidance, fun and constant enthusiasm. Their passion for their country was truly infectious. We have fallen in love with Croatia. Thank you, Jill and Rich (UK)
- Jill, 09/10/2024 20:29, Travelled in a Couple
The beauty of the islands/locations we visited/hiked, the delicious Croatian dishes we enjoyed and the intimate nature of our ship Columbo all lived up to our high expectations. What we did not foresee was even more significant in making this a most memorable journey: the wonderful camaraderie that quickly developed amongst our fellow marauders, the warmth and capable leadership of our incredible guides (Mate and Karla), and the ,world class professionalism of Captain Antonio, Bruno and the rest of the crew,, We came in search of some adventure and left with new friends, an immense fondness for Croatia and its proud people. For this , we owe tremendous thanks to Mate and Karla who were the orchestra leaders who helped us all make music. Unforgettable!
- Terry, 09/10/2024 08:44, Travelled in a Couple
The tour guide Karla and hike guide Mate were really amazing. We feel so lucky to have had them with us.. Really knowledgeable and friendly people who helped bring a group of strangers together to be friends by the end of the week. Thanks too to Bruno and the captain and crew on Columbo for taking such good care of us. The hikes were beautiful. Sometimes they were challenging but not so difficult that we were not able to enjoy the scenery and get to know each other on the way. Our favourite hike was in Makarska, where the views were stunning. Our weather was mixed with some unexpected heavy rain at times but the itinerary was adapted well to suit sailing conditions. The boat was full of like-minded travellers from all over the world and we had a really fun-filled week with the best people.
- Anonymous, 08/10/2024 08:33, Travelled in a Couple
We sailed on the Colombo last week. It was glorious. Though the weather was changeable, the atmosphere on board remained fun loving. Credit must go to the superb captain and crew for safe sailing and adaptability. Swim stops, meals and wonderful evenings will remain in the memory. Special mention must be made, though, of our two wonderful guides: Mate and Karla, not just because they were instructive experts in their hiking field, but also unifying us as a group. They were special and charmed us all. We were all sad to say goodbye at the end of the tour. We are now looking forward to our next Sail Croatia trip in 2025
- Anonymous, 07/10/2024 17:18, Travelled in a Couple
Mate & Karla created an atmosphere that was joyous, fascinating, physically challenging (what we'd hoped for), historically relevant, whilst oozing their love of their gorgeous homeland, nature, fun facts, & always with a smile & belly laughs! They were the reason 30 people came together as strangers & left wanting (& hoping) to stay in touch with them all!! Very organised, very safe, & inspirational. The crew were also a huge part of making this trip as perfect as it was as well. Thank you to all who played a part. We sure love Mate & Karla!!
- Ellen, 07/10/2024 16:57, Travelled in a Couple
This cruise/hike was the most amazing trip!!! Our guides- Mate and Karla made it even better as they planned our daily hikes, kept in contact with us, shared their local knowledge, protected us, and had fun with us!!! They were perfect and we couldn’t have asked for anything or anyone more! Bruno worked hard to keep us hydrated and fed and the sailors, cooks, and Captain of Colombo ship were perfect. The itinerary was so fun! Everyone on the ship bonded and loved the experience!!! We were all sad to say goodbye! Thank you!!!
- Linda, 07/10/2024 16:39, Travelled in a Couple
Our sail/hike trip will be remembered as a favourite because of the people. Our two guides, Karla and Mate, shared their knowledge and passion for Croatia helping passengers appreciate the living history all around us. We sailed on the ship Columbo which was extremely well run by captain and crew. Thank you all!
- Cynthia, 07/10/2024 07:40, Travelled with Friend/s
Had the best week ever. Perfect in all ways. Guides were so friendly and passionate and knowledgeable about their country. The crew of “Emmanuel “ were amazing as well, with a clean well equipped boat and friendly and helpful at all times. Food was fabulous. Amazing trip and can’t recommend highly enough.
- Hazel, 06/10/2024 11:54, Travelled with Friend/s
The trip was amazing from the fantastic crew, to great food and meeting a lovely group of like minded people., Anita the sail Cristian rep was fabulous with a wealth of knowledge on each area and always updated us on what was available at port stops by what’s app. Mika our hiking rep was competent with great knowledge of the terrain and our safety was paramount to her. Her daily updates were very informative. Her passion for the environment and her country was impressive.. I loved the daily sea swim stops . The hikes were challenging at times for me but with Mila and Anita encouragement I completed all of them. I would highly recommend this holiday.
- Liz, 05/10/2024 16:02, Travelled in a Couple
travelling solo for the first time was daunting to me, however from start to finish sailing on the Emanuel with the skilled and friendly skipper, the chef, who treated us with delicious meals, to Ivan and the other hands on board this experience got better and better. Tour guides Mila and Anita were passionate about their beautiful home country of Croatia and their enthusiasm for our day to day activities made this the perfect trip to include daily Hikes, swims in stunning locations, local knowledge and ensured everyone on board this lovely, comfortable ship had the best time. Of cause the highlight for me were the other 25 passengers I met. All like minded people from around the globe and im sure we will all remain friends. We had so much fun ! I cant wait to organise my next Sail Croatia Cruise as Ive never had such a rewarding and much needed life changing holiday.....Until next time
- DALE, 05/10/2024 04:41, Travelled Solo
We had a fantastic time, met great new people and felt good getting in a bit of walking and swimming whilst still having some time to explore the towns we stopped in. Many thanks to the staff who were all so friendly, helpful, great guides and of course fabulous cooks. We highly recommend sailing on the Emanuel with Sail Croatia.
- Kirsten, 01/10/2024 19:55, Travelled with Friend/s
Thus was one of the best holidays that I have ever had and I have traveled expensively in my life to all continents. The organizing of the hikes was especially impressive. Dealing with various levels of fitness and skill would have made this a challenging task but Mate chose hikes that could appeal to all levels and mixed the intensity each day giving those who needed a rest. There was plenty of opportunity to swim creating the perfect fitness balance. I especially loved the carefree and historical stories told by Andro that displayed his passion for country. The boat was beautiful and very clean, the service top notch and attentive. The food was tasty, plentiful and creative. We had one bad day of weather and I truly appreciated the choice made by the captain to come in a day early, I felt safe in his hands. Because of this experience we are planning to book another Sail Croatia from Split for next year. We started searching for a similar trip when we returned but Sail Croatia wins
- Sharon , 30/09/2024 15:50, Travelled with Friend/s
Had the best time with the most amazing 24 fellow passengers from Australia, U.K., Canada, US, South Africa, and New Zealand, Our guides Mila and Anita were fabulous, professional and knowledgeable-thank you both so much! Ship - Emmanuel. The Captain, crew and chef (captains mum) were wonderful. Always professional, hospitable and safety paramount on board. Thank you all for looking after us like family and showing us your beautiful country and incredible islands! Customer service from Sail Croatia in london were great from start to finish - thank you! Cruise hike has been a fabulous experience and highly recommended. Kindest regards Stacey English
- Stacey, 30/09/2024 09:35, Travelled Solo
The Sail Croatia Team and boat crew were superb from beginning to end. Hiking was challenging and rewarding with spectacular views. Meals are home cooked and delicious. The island ports are charming. We had a captain's dinner one night, a pizza night, lots of swimming, etc. It is a n active trip. But what made this cruise so special was making friends with the other travelers. As one person said, " It's the people. It's the people. It's the people! I have traveled a lot and this would rank as one of the best. Do it!
- Brent, 30/09/2024 06:01, Travelled Solo
The sail and hike experience was a great combination! The hikes were reasonably challenging but worth the views at the top and each one was unique. The hiking guides were so enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The boat was in impeccable condition and the crew members went out of their way to make the sailing a memorable experience. My wife needed a gluten free menu which was no trouble whatsoever.
- Jeremy, 30/09/2024 05:55, Travelled in a Couple
What a great way to see the islands and learn so much about the history and geography of the area. The Emmanuel is a great ship to travel on with great , friendly and helpful staff. Food was excellent and plentiful and the twin bedded cabin we had was more roomy that I expected Our guides Mila and Anita are so knowledgeable and shared many facts along the hikes . The hikes were a all manageable length and the ascents worth it , for the amazing views. I loved being able.to swimming the ship daily, what a great holiday. Mila's enthusiasm and passion for her country , traditions and history and love of walking in nature is contagious. Thank you
- Ruth, 30/09/2024 05:31, Travelled with Friend/s
We did a Sail Croatia hike trip. Sail Croatia knew ahead of time some of the people were unable to hike but were interested in the islands we were visiting to see the towns and the history. I would have expected that the coordinators would have given suggestions for things to do and historical information. If you weren't hiking you received limited attention.
- Greggory, 26/09/2024 03:02, Travelled with Friend/s
We did the sailing/hiking tour around the south islands of Split and every day got better and better! The scenery is spectacular, the water is amazing to look at and even better to swim in! The hikes were such a wonderful way to see the country. Mila and Lola were our fantastic guides and they made every hike incredible. We learned so much and got a great workout in each day. The crew is superb! We had some weather but the Captain did everything he could to avoid it and get us to our next destination. Every other crew member made sure our accommodations, food and drinks were great! ! I would definitely go back and sail/hike with this group of people any day!
- Tracey, 18/09/2024 20:23, Travelled with Friend/s
Excellent staff and very clean boat. Itinerary was great despite changes due to weather. (The only thing I would change is to have more salads and fish at lunch - too much heavy meat). Wonderful week!
- Joanne, 16/09/2024 00:37, Travelled with Friend/s
Comraderie, top professionalism and best exposure to the delights of Croatia for. Sea to land
- Jaslovelin , 05/09/2024 06:51, Travelled in a Couple
The boat and crew were fantastic as was the scenery of the islands and coastline of Croatia. The best part was being able to get off the boat and hike to peaks or points of interest every day. We saw so much more of Croatia than we would have had we not selected the Sail & Hike trip with Sail Croatia. Thoroughly recommended!!
- Mark, 03/09/2024 07:58, Travelled in a Couple
The team was amazing, nothing was to much trouble. Food and the hiking was top class! Glad we hiked as it was something to do at each stop. Best way to see Croatia is on a cruise and 7 nights is just perfect.
- Barbara, 08/07/2024 07:52, Travelled with Friend/s
We really enjoyed the hiking with sail Croatia. With only 30 passengers on board, there is ample opportunity to meet everyone. The staff and crew were excellent and our guides were so helpful, friendly and knowledgeable. We thoroughly enjoyed this experience. Would definitely recommend this holiday.
- Jenny, 01/07/2024 18:51, Travelled in a Couple
Great team , food was amazing and the hikes were tough but awesome !
- Barbara de Kock , 01/07/2024 06:02, Travelled in a Couple
Really well organised from start to finish. Maria our Sail Croatia rep was friendly and helpful nothing too much trouble. Mate our hiking guide was also fab sharing his passion for his homeland on our hikes. The boat was comfortable, food excellent and our swim stops one of the highlights. We met some amazing people from around the globe we had plenty of laughs and each day we discovered another gem of an island. Croatia is truly beautiful I would recommend this holiday to all my hiking loving friends.
- Sharon , 24/06/2024 16:14, Travelled with Friend/s
The logistics were spot on making this a super easy trip. The hikes were clearly explained in advance and our guides, Mate and Marija, were fantastic - their local knowledge and skill made all the difference. Swim spots along the way were a welcome opportunity to relax and the variety of hikes meant we saw diverse terrains, flora and fauna. Highly recommended!
- Simone, 21/06/2024 15:20, Travelled in a Couple
The staff made our trip a dream come true. They were very attentive to the guests, helping to solve challenge when luggage was delayed. Enjoyed the food, activities, swimming and company of other guests. It was a great way to see lovely Croatia. Highly recommend.
- Debra, 18/06/2024 13:40, Travelled with Friend/s
Superb holiday guides. Great boat and wonderful staff. The hikes were incredible. A holiday I will always remember
- Teresa, 18/06/2024 11:54, Travelled in a Couple
The accommodations were better than I expected. Helpful and knowledgeable staff Wonderful guides Would have liked better directions to where the boat was docked, we had to pay a €50 taxi ride to get to the other side of the harbor. We never received the “live feed”, Fortunately they held the boat for the 4 of us.
- Anita, 17/06/2024 18:37, Travelled with Friend/s
Both guides and all crew were great, the other guests were good fun to be with and the hikes, swimming, food and all the locations were all great. So good we are considering doing the Dubrovnik trip next year 👍😀
- Nigel, 17/06/2024 14:16, Travelled in a Couple
Friendly and helpful staff! The chef made the best begie meals for me!!!
- Sandi , 17/06/2024 03:43, Travelled with Friend/s
This is a terrific cruise. Our hiking guide, Mate, was friendly, knowledgeable and willing to work with each person's skill level ensuring everyone had a great time. Our cruise manager was Lucija. She was well-organized, always smiling and very willing to go the extra mile to help passengers arrange tours, transportation, etc. The ship was extremely clean and the crew were outstanding. Highly recommend!
- Anonymous, 06/06/2024 23:36, Travelled with Friend/s
The guides were knowledgeable and fun! Lucy went above and beyond in making arrangements for our group after the trip was completed.
- Kim, 03/06/2024 19:32, Travelled with Friend/s
The team onboard Afrodita made my experience onboard the best I could ask for. Truly an amazing crew which gave the highest of care to everyone on board. Andre the waiter was amazing at making sure I didn't lift a finger to get anything. He reminded me I was on holiday saying I will do it for you. He was truly amazing. They all were to be honest such lovely kind people. Our hike guides Mila and Andro were also amazing, with their amazing guidance they brought the fun factor also which is important when you are on holidays. This has been my best holiday to date and I will forever remember my time and crew onboard Afrodita. Thank you everyone and hope to meet again one day x.
- Mary Hackett, 23/05/2024 10:16, Travelled with Friend/s
Just back from a Sail Croatia Hike/Sail week. Was a great time. The vessel was very comfortable, the meals were super, and the guides did all they could to ensure that everyone in the group had an excellent time. This was a super week and would easily do this holiday again.
- Andrew, 16/05/2024 17:05, Travelled in a Couple
Really enjoyed this trip. The boat was extremely well taken care of. The cabin was spacious, shower hot and with strong pressure (important!). IThe boat was spotlessly clean at almost times. The crew were friendly and attentive. The hiking guides did an excellent job of taking care of everyone and went over and above what was expected, with Mila organising extra tours on the islands for those who wanted it. We were 27 on board and there was lots of mingling of desired. I would highly recommend this trip.
- Helen, 13/05/2024 10:29, Travelled Solo
The crew on the Emanuel was terrific. They were attentive and very professional. The ship is kept in tip top shape; everything is very clean. Everything was well-organized and there was a good balance between programmed activities and free time. The maximum capacity for passengers was 30 and we had 27 aboard. It was a very good number. The views were spectacular and all of the places we visited were beautiful and interesting.
- Pam, 13/05/2024 07:36, Travelled with Friend/s
Thankyou everyone I had an amazing time!! The hikes were hard but wonderful. Our guides were so friendly (Ilona and Mila) and helpful and were so happy sharing information about each island and where to visit and eat. Thankyou lovely ladies!! I was happy with the service from all of the guys on the boat too. There was always enough food which I enjoyed. The boat was very clean and you could see the captain really looks after it and has pride in this, thank you boys!!
- Kim, 13/05/2024 04:07, Travelled with Friend/s
Fantastic daily treks with amazing knowledgeable guides Mila and Ilona. Clean boat with plenty of relaxing areas. Nice room. Fabulous attentive staff.
- Susan, 13/05/2024 04:05, Travelled with Friend/s
My trip with Sail Croatia was a wonderful adventure. The staff's exceptional hospitality made the journey truly unforgettable. They were not only knowledgeable but also genuinely cared about our well-being, ensuring we had a fantastic experience. The ship itself was clean and comfortable. It was well-maintained and the food was plentiful and delicious. The hikes in Croatia were nothing short of spectacular, with breathtaking views and diverse terrain. The camaraderie among fellow travelers added an extra layer of enjoyment to the trip, and I made lasting friendships along the way. This sailing and hiking adventure exceeded my expectations. It's a perfect escape for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. I can't recommend it highly enough, and I'm already dreaming of my next journey with this outstanding team.
- Alison, 23/10/2023 01:58, Travelled with Friend/s
From start to finish we had a great holiday. The boat was gleaming throughout, the crew were friendly and the food was excellent. Just what we needed to fuel up for the hikes. Our guides (Mate and Andro) were kind, helpful, informative and both had a great sense of humour. The hikes were good fun and the views were spectacular! We met lovely people from around the world. We would definitely do this again.
- Claire , 13/10/2023 07:51, Travelled in a Couple
WOW. The guides and crew of our hiking trip made our experience so fun and easy. The hikes were calibrated to the group's preferences, so they were just challenging enough to keep it fun and provided great views of the islands. Breakfasts and lunches on board were delicious. And I can't say enough good things about our guides and crew - so kind, thoughtful, and detail-oriented. This trip was the perfect way to unwind while not just sitting in a beach chair for a week. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure.
- Anonymous, 10/10/2023 13:05, Travelled in a Couple
I travelled with a friend on the Hike & Swim trip onboard The Emmanuel. All the other guests were a fabulous bunch & very diverse. The hikes were challenging for me - some more than others - however no one is hurrying you & you can choose to sit some out if you need to. I felt a tremendous sense of achievement for managing to complete the majority & of course enjoy the beautiful countryside. Our guides Mila & Maria were just brilliant - knowledgeable, humorous, kind & the crew of the Emmanuel were also the same - it felt like a family. The food was excellent & we particularly appreciated the special efforts made for us as a Vegan & Vegetarian. One thing to note - if you are checking a bag in, bring walking poles - the ascents & descents are steep & rocky. Cabins are very basic & very small but all we did was sleep in them so it was no problem & tbh there is all we need. Definitely would return to some of the islands & would consider a different Sail Croatia trip (different islands).
- Rebecca, 10/10/2023 11:11, Travelled with Friend/s
Our ship’s friendly crew and staff on board the Mail Ante were all wonderful., especially our waiter Mario. He was very welcoming, and helpful.. I had some dietary requirements and he looked after meat every meal. All the food we had on board was delicious. There was so much variety. Our hiking guides Mate and Andro were friendly and very informative. We learned lots about the places we hiked to. The hikes were challenging but doable with amazing views. The swim stops were glorious. We met lovely fellow passengers and we all got along really well. Thank you for a fabulous holiday. We would highly recommend this trip and would love to return to Sail Croatia in the near future.
- Anonymous, 09/10/2023 20:49, Travelled with Friend/s
Lovely group of people. Polite hardworking staff Excellent leaders.Nice boat, great weather . Organisation went like clockwork . Some easier walks option perhaps combined with swims would have been welcome
- David, 09/10/2023 08:54, Travelled Solo
We loved the hiking cruise! You could swim and walk everyday, and we saw islands/ parts of Croatia we never would have visited otherwise. Everyone on the boat was great. We were recommended by friends, and we will continue to highly recommend too! Thanks Sail Croatia
- Amanda , 26/09/2023 08:37, Travelled in a Couple
First impression on boarding our allocated ship Eos, a three masted motor sailer, was we had drawn the short straw. It wasn’t as modern or sleek as most of the cruisers around us in Split harbour and our below deck cabin was tiny and cramped. However what followed was a week of brilliant fun and adventure that made the shortcomings of the accommodation seem a minor point. A new picture postcard location every day, beautiful ports, swim stops in secluded bays and a great group of fellow travellers from around the globe who we got to know on our daily hikes and evenings in the local bars cafes and restaurants. Our guides Mate and Lola were knowledgeable, responsible but also fun. The crew were great and the food on board was varied and tasty. The hikes were challenging but rewarding too, though I personally would have preferred more climbs with a bar at the top! We made some great friends and have fabulous memories of our week around the Islands of Croatia. Thanks to all.
- Tony, 26/09/2023 06:21, Travelled in a Couple
Hi Tony! Thank you for your 4-star review! We loved reading about your adventures on our Hike cruise and we are really happy to hear you had a wonderful time onboard. We appreciate all your comments regarding the destinations, delicious meals served, daily hikes and swimming out at sea in lovely secluded bays, thank you. Your kind comments will be passed on to the crew to enjoy also. I see you booked a Premier ship, which are more traditional in style. We have a wide range of ships in our fleet and the ships you refer to in the harbour, were likely to be a higher category ship such as Premier Plus ships, as these are more modern in style. We are thrilled to know you enjoyed your cruise overall, and you had a week full of fun and adventure and also made some new friends on your cruise - we're sure memories to last a lifetime! We hope to welcome you back for another Active Adventure soon!
- travelling with old friends - meeting new people - seeing new beautiful places - discovering that I enjoy cruising - nice staff
- Karen, 25/09/2023 20:12, Travelled with Friend/s