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Kvarner Bay
Experience the Charm of the Adriatic Coast
Croatia
8 Days/7 Nights, approx. 195 km
Level 2 – 3
The cycling routes require a basic level of fitness, which you should have acquired through regular cycling. The routes can reach an altitude of 200 to 500 meters. The daily routes of around 20 – 45 km/12 – 28 mi. will take us up through hilly and mountainous terrain and can be completed without time constraints. You will also come across some longer and rather steep climbs, where walking your bike is of course permitted. Participants will also need to master long and steep climbs, during which they are, however, also permitted to push their bicycles. Upon consultation with your tour guides, it may be possible for you to cycle on your own along suitable, recommended routes.
Guarded by the towering Velebit mountain range in the east and hugged by the Istria Peninsula in the northwest lie the Kvarner bay islands. Quiet coves of crystal clear water surround the dramatic landscapes of the Kvaner bay islands; green hills and rocky moon landscapes give way to small harbour towns rich in history and culture. Discover the charm of the Adriatic Sea for yourself by bike and boat on board one of our romantic motor yachts.
The day begins with a well-rounded breakfast leaving you fit to explore the diversity of the Kvarner bay islands on a guided bike tour. Be it the medieval city of Rab, the car-free road in the sky on Dugi Otok or the contemplative life of the dwellers on the flower island of Molat, each day brings with it new discoveries. Evenings are mostly spent in picturesque harbour towns with winding alleyways where a great range of bars and cafes stand host for a relaxing evening.
Often a mountain bike tour will run parallel to this tour on board the same ship in which case one tour guide will be allocated per group.
On this trip, we offer you the option of either joining your guides on the cycle tours or completing the cycle routes individually at your own pace using the free RideWithGPS route app for your smartphone as well as GPS tracks and maps.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Omišalj (Embarkation) – CresIndividual arrival in Omišalj, a nice little harbor village on the island of Krk. If you’re planning to arrive by car, we will organize a safe parking space for you. Check-in on the motor yacht between 2 and 2:30 pm. At aprx. 3 pm the ship takes us to the island of Cres in about four hours. On Cres we take a walk through the Venetian old town in the evening. |
Day 2 - Islands of Cres and Lošinj (aprx. 18 mi./28 km)After breakfast we start our tour from the city of Cres to Martinšćica. The boat awaits your arrival and lunch is served during the cruise to the island of Lošinj. If the weather is good, the captain will arrange a swim stop along the way before tying off in the harbor wellness town of Mali Lošinj. The port with its colourful facades and numerous cafes offers its visitors a welcoming atmosphere for a relaxed evening. |
Day 3 - Islands of Lošinj and Molat (aprx. 12 + 6 mi./20 + 10 km)We cycle along the seaside promenade to the south of Lošinj and visit the picturesque small harbor town of Veli Lošinj before we meet the ship for lunch. In the afternoon we cross over to the island of Molat where we can do another short cycling tour. We spend the night in a peaceful and secluded port on the island. |
Day 4 - Islands of Dugi Otok and Zadar (aprx. 20 mi./32 km)During breakfast the ship leaves Molat and takes us past many small islands to the “spice island” of Dugi Otok. Our bike tour starts in the bay of Božava which is surrounded by pine woods, agaves and tamarisk trees, and we ride on a road almost free of traffic. Our tour leads us at first to the northernmost point of the island where the lighthouse of Veli Rat stands proudly since 1849 fulfilling its duty in guiding sailors safely on their way. A ride along the island's “Road in the Sky” brings us to the peaceful harbor of Savar or Bribinj. There will be ample time for a swim break in the afternoon before continuing to Zadar. Zadar is a historical center of Dalmatia, Zadar County's principal political, cultural, and commercial center. We will have a tour through the lovely city centre at the evening. |
Day 5 - Island of Pag - Rab (aprx. 21 mi./34 km)After a crossing in the morning we reach the island of Pag. In the harsh but delightful landscape of the island we come across many fig and olive trees. Over the centuries the inhabitants have built numerous stone walls for protection against the wind. Starting from Mandre we cycle on the narrow peninsula until we reach the sea from where the ship takes us to Rab. The island of Rab is one of the sunniest places in Europe. The town of Rab, the fortified capital of the island, was built in the Middle Ages on a wedge shaped headland and marks one of the highlights of the trip. The four famous bell towers are the symbol of the adorned beauty of the town. After dinner we can explore the narrow alleys with numerous cozy cafés. |
Day 6 - Islands of Rab and Krk (aprx. 15 mi./25 km)Today we enjoy a round tour through diverse landscapes on the Island of Rab. Starting from the old town, our tour takes us through alternating landscapes from coastal promenades, to shaded forests and secluded bays. After returning to the boat we start our cruise towards the island of Krk. Along the way we hope to stop for a refreshing swim from the boat. We spend the evening in the historical town of Krk. |
Day 7 - Island of Krk (aprx. 28 mi./45 km)We cycle over the ridge of the island which is covered by fragrant macchia to a valley of vineyards and then onwards to the small museum town of Vrbnik in the northeast. The town built on a 50-meter-high cliff and surrounded by vineyards is the home of the famous white wine Žlahtina. Another peculiarity that Vrbnik has to offer is the second narrowest alley in the world. The way leads us across the island through old villages and rich vegetation to Omišalj. On our way we have a chance to swim in the bay of Soline. A cheerful evening meal on board the boat gives you time to celebrate the success of the week with fellow travellers and tour guides. |
Day 8 - Omišalj (Disembarkation)After breakfast disembarkation until 9 am and individual trip home or extended stay in Croatia. |
Map and profile
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Profile
The cycling routes require a basic level of fitness, which you should have acquired through regular cycling. The routes can reach an altitude of 1312 – 2296 Ft. / 400 to 700 meters. The daily routes of around 18 – 27 mi. / 30 – 45 km will take us up through hilly and mountainous terrain and can be completed without time constraints. You will also come across some longer and rather steep climbs, where walking your bike is of course permitted. Upon consultation with your tour guides, it may be possible for you to cycle on your own along suitable, recommended routes. It is also possible to remain on board the boat.
This tour is primarily designed as a guided group tour. After prior consultation with our tour guides and selection of a suitable route, nothing stands in the way of individual cycling. During the daily program briefings, your tour guides will explain everything you need to know about the next day's stage.
If you prefer to cycle alone rather than with a group, you can cycle the tours independently and at your own pace. For orientation, we provide you with access to the free RideWithGPS route app for your smartphone, a detailed cycle map and GPS tracks. Your guides cycle the same route as you. They are therefore close by and can be contacted by phone in case of emergencies, problems or questions. Instead of a bike tour, you can also opt for a half or full day of swimming on the boat.
Bringing Children:
We believe that only children in a good physical condition and of a minimum age of 10 and previous bicycle tour experience are able to master the bike tours on their own strength. Please note that the minimum height for a rental bike is 1.20 m (4 ft.). In Croatia there is a helmet duty for all children up to age 16.
When travelling with children, we recommend our Multi-Adventure Tours in Greece and Croatia which are specifically curated for families and offer family-friendly pricing.
Boat
Comfort Boat Linda (shower/toilet in each cabin)
Captain Damir’s Linda is a spacious wooden motor yacht. She was built in 1955 and renovated in 2004/2005 to meet the requirements of Islandhopping. 102 ft./ 31 meters long and 19,5 ft./ 6 meters wide the Linda is among the bigger ships in our Croatian fleet. The spacious saloon can accommodate 32 guests, and the middle sundeck is constructed in a way that meals can also be served outside. The upper deck measures 131 sq ft./ 40 square meters and is big enough for sunbathing. Three cozy cabins below deck are equipped with separate beds and two portholes each. Another one has got a double bed with an additional bunk bed above the large bed, so that they can also be booked by three persons. On deck there are ten double cabins. Six of those have a double bed and four double cabins are equipped with separate beds. Captain Damir and his crew look forward to welcome our guests on board of their Linda. All cabins have air condition.
Dates / Tour Price
Base tour price per person (in a double cabin below deck)
April-May:
25.04. – 02.05-2025 - 999 Euro
May:
23.05. – 30.05.2025 - 1,299 Euro
June:
06.06. – 13.06.2025 - 1,299 Euro
20.06. – 27.06.2025 - 1,299 Euro
July:
04.07. – 11.07.2025 - 1,299 Euro
11.07. – 18.07.2025 - 1,299 Euro
18.07. – 25.07.2025 - 1,149 Euro
July - August:
25.07. – 01.08.2025 - 1,149 Euro
August:
01.08. – 08.08.2025 - 1,149 Euro
08.08. – 15.08.2025 - 1,149 Euro
15.08. – 22.08.2025 - 1,149 Euro
22.08. – 29.08.2025 - 1,299 Euro
August - September:
29.08. – 05.09.2025 - 1,299 Euro
September - October
26.09. – 03.10.2025 - 1,149 Euro
October:
10.10. – 17.10.2025 - 1,149 Euro
24.10. – 31.10.2025 - 999 Euro
Price reductions
• With three persons sharing a cabin (limited availability), we offer a 200 euro discount per person (not combinable with other discounts).
• Children up to the age of 16 receive a discount of 200 euros on the tour base price (double occupancy, not combinable with other discounts). When travelling with children, we recommend our Multi-Adventure Tours in Greece and Croatia which are specifically curated for families and offer family-friendly pricing.
Included / Not included
Included in the tour price:
• 8-day trip on a motorized yacht with crew
• 7 nights in a twin cabin below deck with shower/toilet
• 2 x full board and 5 x half board
• Guided cycling tours and sightseeing as described in the itinerary
• Access to RideWithGPS app for individual cycling (if desired)
• Overview-maps for the daily cycling tours (on board)
• Bed linen and towels
• English speaking tour guide
Not included in the tour price:
• Journey to Omišalj/Krk Island
• Flat rate for drinking water and tourist taxes (60 €) euro per person. For children up to age 16 the price is 30 euros (to be paid to the captain).
• Beverages on board (tally sheet; to be paid to the captain)
• Meals and beverages ashore
• Tips for crew and tour guides
Additional optional services (on request):
• Above deck cabin, surcharge: 250 euro/person
• Double cabin for single use below deck, surcharge: 50% on the tour base price (limited)
• Double cabin for single use above deck, surcharge: 50% (tour base price + above deck surcharge x 1.5) (limited)
• Special dietary requests (lactose free / gluten free / vegan), surcharge: 70 euro (must be communicated in advance, payment on board)
• Rental bike with Ortlieb pannier: e-bike: 245 euro/week; hybrid bicycle: 80 euro/week
• Limited liability protection for rental bikes (theft and damage): e-bike: 30 euro/week; hybrid bicycle: 20 euro/week (not covered: grossly negligent damages)
• A safe parking space: motorcycle: 40 euro/week; car up to 6 m in length: 80 euro/week, vehicle longer than 6 m: 120 euro/week (to be paid on-site to the tour guide)
• Transfer from/to Rijeka airport (on embarkation and disembarkation days only): prices on request (minimum 2 persons)
• Transfer from/to Rijeka train station (on embarkation and disembarkation days only): prices on request (minimum 2 persons)
• Collective transfers between Zagreb and Omišalj on day of embarkation/disembarkation only (11:30 am from Zagreb Center or 12:15 pm from Zagreb Airport / return transfer from Omišalj to Zagreb Airport starts at 8 am: 65 euro/person (reservation required two weeks in advance, booking incl. complete transmission of flight details - minimum 2 persons)
• Exclusive transfers: on request
• Additional night on Island Krk: on request
• 2-day extension module Zagreb in a 4 star hotel, price per person: in a double room: prices on request in a single room: prices on request (People driving independently, without the need of a transfer, receive a discount off all prices mentioned) – Detailed itinerary on request.
Bikes
Hybrid Bikes - Diamond Frame
- Gears: 24
- Wheels: 28"
- Brakes: Shimano Alivio
- Frame: Aluminium
- Weight: 13,5 kg
For our hybrid bike tours, we use reliable, low maintenance hybrid bikes with aluminum frames in various sizes. Twenty years of experience in bike tourism has given us the knowledge and confidence to select the right components for the requirements of an our tour. Our bikes ensure a carefree riding experience for our cycling enthusiasts.
E-Bikes - Orbea Optima Asphalt
- Gears: 11
- Wheels: 28"
- Brakes: Shimano BR-MT210 hydraulic disk brake
- Frame: Aluminium
- Weight: 21 kg without the battery
All our e-bikes are high quality pedelecs, most of which are fitted with Bosch motors with extra battery range. They are characterized by their relatively light weight and great components. Some of our fleet are equipped with other motor systems. With an e-bike, you will be able to climb almost any hill with ease. They are a true set of wings for anyone who needs a little ‘tail wind’ to make their ride that little bit more enjoyable.
Good to know
Language
Due to our international audience the tour is conducted bilingually, in English and German.
Catering
The on-board chef is a member of the crew and prepares the breakfast and one or two warm meals a day. The catering consists of 2 x full board and 5 x half board. Catering starts with the dinner on the arrival day and ends with the breakfast on the departure day.
Requirement to wear a helmet
Helmets are mandatory on our bike tours. It is advised to bring your own, well fitted, helmet with you as our rental helmet numbers are limited (reservation required).
Group riding pace:
On our regular cycling tours, the cyclists on regular bicycles determine the pace. We ask guests who have reserved an e-bike to be mindful of this and to acknowledge that the regular cyclists need time to rest and take longer to climb the hills. We thank you for your understanding.
Bringing Children
We believe that only children with a good physical condition and previous bicycle tour experience and a minimum age of 10 are able to master the cycle tours with their own strength. Please note that the minimum height for a rental bike is 1.30 m (4.3 ft.) for hybrid bikes and 1.50 m (5 ft.) for e-bikes. In Croatia there is a helmet duty for all children up to age 16.
Bringing private bikes & EXCLUSION of private E-BIKES
The tour which you have booked requires a bike with a fully functional set of gears. Islandhopping can offer you high quality, fully serviced rental bikes perfect for the terrain of this tour.
Should you however wish to bring your own hybrid or MTB with you, please make sure to check the condition of your breaks, gears, and tires and don’t forget to bring along a puncture repair kit and the essential spare parts for your bike (e.g. brake pads and tubes). Your bike should be in prefect mechanical working order.
We do not allow private e-bikes on board of our boats. This decision has been made due to health and safety regulations. If you wish to ride an e-bike for the duration of your tour, please get in touch with us about the rental options.
We do not recommend bringing along private road bikes, as the thin tires are not suitable for some of the road surfaces encountered on the tours.
Liability disclaimer: AVE a.s. will not be held liable for any damages caused to private bikes during loading, unloading or other logisitical handling thereof.
Booking
