Split: 7-Day Sailing Adventure on a Gib-Sea 51 sailing Yacht

Imagine waking up each morning with a different view, the gentle sway of the boat, and the promise of exploring Croatia’s beautiful islands. That’s exactly what this 7-day sailing tour aboard a Gib-Sea 51 offers. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary highlight a journey filled with scenic sailing, fun activities, and a taste of island life, all at a fair price of around $1,241 per person.

What really makes this experience stand out is its combination of well-balanced onboard dining, free water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling, and the opportunity to explore multiple stunning locations each day. The only potential consideration? If you’re not a fan of small group adventures or aren’t comfortable with being on the water, this might not be your ideal choice. But for those craving an authentic, intimate sailing trip, this could be a perfect fit.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love the idea of active exploration combined with relaxation, are eager to meet new people, and want to enjoy Croatia from a unique vantage point—on the water. It’s not for anyone with mobility issues or seasickness concerns, but for adventurous souls ready to embrace island life, it offers a memorable and value-packed experience.

Good To Know

• Intimate small group setting for personalized attention.
• All-inclusive onboard meals and drinks (excluding alcohol) for convenience.
• Daily sailing to new locations with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
• Comfortable private cabins with ensuite bathrooms.
• Convenient starting point in Marina Kastela, close to Split airport.
• Flexibility with booking and cancellations allows for peace of mind.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes 7 days on the sailing yacht, all onboard food and non-alcoholic drinks, a seasoned multi-lingual skipper, and access to water-based activities. You’ll also spend a night in a marina, giving you a sense of comfort and privacy in your own ensuite cabin. Plus, all onboard expenses—fuel, bed linen, tourist tax, and even the tip for the crew—are covered.

However, you’ll need to budget separately for flights, personal expenses, alcohol, meals ashore, and extra activities. Transport to and from Marina Kastela isn’t included either, so planning your arrival and departure is essential.

The Itinerary: What to Expect Each Day

Each day brings a new adventure, with sailing depending on weather conditions, but the general flow promises exciting stops and leisurely exploration.

Starting in Split’s Marina Kastela

Located just 7 km from Split airport, Marin Kastela is a well-equipped hub with restaurants, shops, and even an indoor swimming pool. It’s an ideal launch point, meaning you won’t need to worry about extra travel costs or long transfers. As you meet Captain Mark and Bernice, you’ll get a quick briefing and settle into your private cabin, ready to set sail.

Day 1: Embarkation and First Sail

After introductions, your first sail might be relatively short, giving you a chance to get comfortable with the yacht’s layout. You’ll love the spaciousness of the Gib-Sea 51, with five two-person cabins, each with an ensuite bathroom, ensuring privacy and comfort. The large galley and living area mean you can socialize or relax, depending on your mood.

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Day 2-6: Island Hopping and Daily Adventures

Each day, you’ll wake up in a new spot—perhaps a secluded cove, a charming coastal town, or a pristine beach. The tour emphasizes sailing to beautiful spots every day, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling (gear included), and paddleboarding (also free). Reviewers mention how they enjoyed the ability to just sit back and enjoy the view or go ashore and explore.

Some highlights include exploring hidden coves or relaxing on beaches with your own private yacht as a base. The boat’s tender makes it easy to get ashore when anchored, and the snorkeling gear allows for underwater discovery. Expect to enjoy delicious, well-balanced meals prepared onboard, often with fresh local ingredients, making every mealtime enjoyable after a day of sun and sea.

Day 7: Return and Reflection

On your final day, you’ll sail back to Marina Kastela or nearby making your departure easy. Having spent the week on the water, you’ll feel refreshed and full of stories. Some guests noted that the freedom of sailing and changing views each morning made the experience truly special.

The Sailing Yacht: Comfort and Practicality

The Gib-Sea 51 is designed for comfort and functionality. Its large deck is perfect for lounging and enjoying panoramic views, while the multi-cabin layout offers privacy for couples or small groups. The shared bathroom facilities are a plus for those who dislike communal showers, and the galley’s ample storage makes onboard meals a highlight.

Guests appreciated the quiet, stable ride—important for those concerned about seasickness—and the overall cleanliness and maintenance of the vessel. It’s clear that the crew takes pride in maintaining a welcoming environment.

Activities and Water Fun

You’ll love the free use of paddleboards and snorkeling equipment**, which transform a typical sailing trip into an active adventure. The tender boat is useful for quick trips ashore, especially when you want to explore charming towns like Trogir or Solin. Reviewers often mention how these water activities added a layer of fun and discovery to their holiday.

Sails, Meals, and Relaxation

Each day’s sailing is tailored to the weather, and the crew’s local knowledge ensures you get the best experience possible. Guests consistently mention the delicious onboard meals, often described as well-balanced and satisfying, making mealtime a highlight after a day in the sun.

Marina Night

Spending a night in a marina offers a taste of land-based comforts—your private cabin, hot showers, and the chance to explore nearby restaurants or cafes. Guests found this a nice break from the open sea and appreciated the privacy of their own space.

Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing

Booking is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later, and cancellations allowed up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience, but it’s worth noting that it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility or health issues.

What to pack? Think sunglasses, hats, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a camera. Leave high heels, pets, and smoking off the list, as the boat has specific rules to keep everyone comfortable and safe.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 7-day sailing adventure offers a fantastic mix of scenic sailing, water activities, and island exploration. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences but also want downtime to relax and soak in stunning views. The small group size creates a friendly, intimate atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers or couples looking to meet others.

If you’re seeking an affordable, flexible, and comfortable way to see Croatia’s coast, this trip delivers excellent value for your money. It’s well-suited for those who want a balance of activity, relaxation, and authentic island discovery without the hassle of planning every detail.

For travelers craving a unique perspective on Croatian islands—from a floating home—this tour provides a memorable week filled with shared experiences, beautiful scenery, and fun water adventures.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12, mainly because of the small group size and water-based nature of the activities.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling or paddleboarding gear?
No, snorkeling equipment and paddleboards are provided free of charge, so you can just enjoy using them.

What’s the accommodation like onboard?
Each guest gets a private cabin with an ensuite bathroom. The boat has five two-person cabins, making it comfortable and private for all.

Is food included onboard?
Yes, all onboard food and drinks (excluding alcohol) are included, with meals described as well-balanced and delicious.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Marina Kastela, close to Split airport, and ends there too, making travel logistics simple.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with mobility or health issues. Also, certain groups like party or bachelor parties are discouraged.

This comprehensive review highlights how this Dalmatian sailing adventure can deliver a memorable mix of scenic beauty, water fun, and relaxation, all within a well-organized and value-driven package. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-timer eager to explore Croatia from the deck of a yacht, this trip offers a unique way to experience the coast’s stunning islands.

You can check if your dates are available here: