If you’re dreaming of spending a day on the water exploring Croatia’s stunning coastline and hidden coves, the Moenika Draga sailing trip to Cres Island offers an authentic, laid-back experience that’s hard to beat. This tour, organized by JSAILING, combines a mix of sailing, swimming, and optional sailing lessons—making it perfect for those who want more than just a boat ride.
From the moment you step aboard, you’ll love the feeling of the wind in your hair as you cruise toward Cres. You’ll appreciate the clear waters for swimming, the chance to learn or improve sailing skills, and the opportunity to enjoy local food in a quiet, scenic setting. A potential downside? The boat doesn’t have a toilet, so be prepared for that small inconvenience. This trip suits travelers who enjoy nature, water activities, and a relaxed pace, especially those keen on sailing or discovering Croatia’s coast from the sea.
Key Points
- Authentic sailing experience with instruction available
- Beautiful coves and beaches accessible only by boat
- Flexible options for swimming, lunch, or sailing training
- Cost-effective at $70 per person for a full day out
- Good for water lovers, beginners, and those seeking scenic views
- Note: No toilet onboard; bring essentials like water and sports shoes
What Makes This Sailing Trip Special
The journey begins at the green lantern on the waterfront, a straightforward meeting point that sets the tone for a hassle-free start. From there, you’ll set sail from Draga, heading towards Cres Island—famous for its wild, untouched landscapes and hidden beaches. The trip is designed to be flexible, whether you want to swim, learn how to sail, or just relax and soak in the views.
What really sets this experience apart is its balance of adventure and tranquility. You’re not just a passenger; you can choose to participate in sailing lessons or simply enjoy the ride. The small-group atmosphere (often just you and a few others) means personalized attention, whether that’s learning from the friendly instructor or just chatting with fellow travelers.
Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights
Departure and Sailing to Cres
Your day begins with a short walk to the waterfront meeting point. The boat, described as a perfect size—not too big, not too small—sets the scene for a cozy, manageable adventure. Depending on the wind conditions, which can vary, your trip might feature different sailing experiences. The local winds—like the Tramontana or Maetral—provide favorable conditions for sailing, with light to medium strength and small to medium waves.
We loved the way the guides explain and adapt to the weather conditions—if winds are calm, the boat runs on the engine, ensuring no part of the trip feels dull. During the 1 to 1.5 hours of sailing, you’ll feel the thrill of gliding over the water, with plenty of opportunities to learn the basics of sailing or practice maneuvers if you’re interested.
Time at Cres and Swimming
Once you reach Cres or one of its coves, the anchor drops, and the real fun begins. Cres is known for its wild, rugged coastline with coves and tiny beaches that are only accessible by boat. These secluded spots are perfect for swimming in crystal-clear waters, lounging on the boat, or exploring the shoreline.
Reviewers rave about the stunning views and peaceful environment. One reviewer mentioned, “We had a wonderful time, and the tour guide was super friendly and eager to show us the best places,” which perfectly encapsulates the relaxed, friendly atmosphere onboard. Expect to spend 1-2 hours swimming, relaxing, or taking photos of the rugged landscape.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch and Food Options
For lunch, you can opt for a local restaurant or bring your own provisions. The guide can prepare a BBQ next to a small fishing house, or you can enjoy a buffet or pizza in places around Brse, Porozina, Brestova, Beli, or Malinska. The flexibility here is great, especially if you prefer homemade food or have specific dietary needs.
The boat’s ice fridge with plenty of ice ensures your drinks stay cool during the day, and you’re encouraged to bring water and snacks. Keep in mind, there’s no toilet on board, so plan accordingly—this isn’t a tour for those needing frequent bathroom access.
Return Journey and Optional Sailing Lessons
The trip back takes about an hour, allowing you to reflect on the day’s highlights or enjoy more sailing if you signed up for the 4-hour sailing training. These lessons focus more on sailing techniques and are suitable for beginners eager to learn. As one reviewer put it, “The mini-schooling was a lot of fun and made the trip even more memorable.”
Wind Conditions and Flexibility
The local winds play a significant role in shaping the sailing experience. Mornings are often calmer, with winds like Tramontana and Bava providing gentle conditions for sailing towards Cres. If winds are light or absent, the boat simply runs on its engine, ensuring the day stays on schedule.
Authentic Experiences and Practical Details
The small-group setup helps keep the experience intimate and personalized. With only a few guests, the crew can tailor the trip to your interests, whether that’s focusing on sailing, relaxing, or exploring hidden spots.
You’ll want to bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, water, and sports shoes—comfortable footwear for walking around deck or onshore. Remember, the vessel doesn’t have a toilet, so plan your hydration accordingly.
The tour is priced at $70 per person, which offers excellent value considering the full day of sailing, swimming, and optional instruction. Meals and drinks are extra, but the flexibility to bring your own or enjoy local cuisine adds to the experience’s affordability.
Reviews and Feedback
The positive reviews highlight several key aspects. One traveler said, “Fantastischer Segeltrip von 4h zu einem sehr guten Preis… Sehr gute Erklärungen, Mini Schulung zum Segeln. Das hat richtig Spaß gemacht.” That personal touch, combined with the manageable boat size and friendly guides, makes this trip feel like a bespoke adventure.
Another reviewer praised the scenic views and the guide’s eagerness to show the best spots, emphasizing how quickly the four hours fly by. The small group size, sometimes just a few guests, ensures everyone gets attention and can participate actively.
Who Will Love This Trip?
This experience is ideal for water lovers, adventure seekers, and those curious about sailing. Beginners will appreciate the sailing lessons, while seasoned sailors can enjoy the scenic cruise and swimming. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, scenic beauty, and authentic Croatian coastal life.
Please note, it’s not suitable for people with back problems, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness. The boat lacks a toilet, so those with sensitive bladders should plan ahead.
The Sum Up
This sailing trip to Cres Island offers a genuine taste of Croatia’s maritime charm, combining scenic views, swimming, and sailing education into one affordable package. The small-group format and relaxed environment make it an intimate, memorable outing. Whether you’re eager to learn sailing, explore secluded beaches, or simply enjoy a day on the water, this trip delivers.
While it’s a straightforward experience with no luxury amenities like a toilet onboard, the natural beauty and friendly guides more than compensate. It’s well-suited for travelers seeking an active yet peaceful escape, especially water enthusiasts and those wanting to experience Croatia’s coast from a different perspective.
FAQ
Is transportation to the starting point included?
No, you will need to arrange your own transport to the waterfront meeting point at the green lantern in the harbor.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, water, and sports shoes. Since there’s no toilet onboard, plan to hydrate carefully.
Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but you can bring your own or purchase food at local restaurants.
Can I join if I don’t know how to sail?
Absolutely. The trip includes sailing instruction, and you can choose to participate in lessons or just enjoy the ride.
What if there’s no wind?
If the weather is calm, the boat will operate on its engine, ensuring the trip remains comfortable and timely.
Is this trip suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s better suited for those comfortable in the water, as swimming is a key part of the experience.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
This sailing trip to Cres from Draga promises a wonderful blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Croatian coastal scenery—all at a very reasonable price. Whether you’re learning to sail or just soaking up the view, it’s a day that’s likely to stand out in your Croatian holiday memories.
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