Sea Kayaking along Croatia's Dalmatian Coast - Alumni

Join NOLS Alumni on this extraordinary sea kayak adventure in the Elaphiti Island Archipelago just north of Dubrovnik, Croatia. This chain of 13 islands is famous for its enchanting seaside villages, historic settlements, limestone cliffs, and bright aquamarine waters. Kayaking this route allows for exploration of land and sea with opportunities to snorkel and swim, practice kayak skills, and learn about this young country’s history and culture.

Photo by Dennis P

The trip begins in the historic town of Mlini just south of Dubrovnik. An evening orientation paired with a cheese and wine tasting will kick off the trip and will get participants acquainted with the local flavors of the Adriatic. While we won’t visit the famous Old town of Dubrovnik, we do suggest you plan an extra day for this World Heritage Site.

Photo by Andres Edwards

Our first day on the water begins with a ferry ride to the island of Lopud. Once on the island, Instructors will lead a skill session in basic paddling techniques, boat control, wet-exits, and assisted re-entries. The opportunity for more advanced instruction will be sprinkled in throughout the trip.

The following morning, we will paddle our way back toward the mainland town of Slano. This is a beautiful day of kayaking, and if the weather cooperates, there is a fantastic snorkeling stop along the way.

Photo by Steve Harrington

While we have a scheduled route, the regional wind patterns common to the Adriatic will determine our daily route considerations. Instructors will help participants develop ocean awareness to read wind and weather patterns. Bringing a good dose of flexibility, Expedition Behavior, and good cheer will aid your enjoyment of this trip.

Late spring and fall are excellent times of year to paddle the Dalmatian coast. The ocean is dynamic, and the colors along the coast hum with vibrance. Average air temperature highs are in the mid 70s and lows in the 50s. Water temperature hovers in the 60s in the spring and 70s in the fall.

Photo by Kristie McCool

Some days, we will paddle to islands and explore them on foot. Limestone cliffs, craggy shorelines, pine forests, and overgrown olive farms give a first impression of wildness to the islands, but many have been inhabited for over a thousand years. Small villages dot the islands and each has its own historic significance, beauty, and charm.

Photo by Travis Welch

Several days, we will try to visit seaside caves. Well known to locals, these caverns glow with warm green light under ruggedly cut limestone arches. Features like this exemplify the Croatian coast and when possible we will paddle straight into them!

Photo by Steve Harrington

Days on this trip will be full. We will paddle for 5-8 hours each day with dispersed breaks for snacks, lunch, swimming and exploring.

Photo by Andres Edwards 

In the evenings, we will pull up to shore and lodge in guest houses in oceanside villages. The guesthouses are relaxed and comfortable and at some, we will get the chance to sample Adriatic culinary specialities such as fresh seafood and regionally produced olive oil.

Photo by Filip Karamarko

Our last day of paddling will take us back to Mlini. Departing from Kalamata island we will pass the famous walls of Dubrovnik’s old town on the mainland. Dating back to 1272, the walls are an icon of the Adriatic coast. A celebratory dinner in Milni will conclude our time together before parting ways to other adventures.

Overall Difficulty*:

*Nightly guesthouses mean light gear, but paddling on windy days and carrying boats takes effort.