Itinerary
Cycling Cruise: Islandhopping Kvarner Bay
8 days / 7 nights | Comfort Class | Guided or self guided
Protected by the towering Velebit mountain range in the east and embraced by the Istria Peninsula in the northwest lie the Kvarner Bay islands. Quiet coves with crystal clear water surround the dramatic landscapes of the Kvaner Bay. Green hills and rocky moon landscapes give way to small harbour towns rich in both history and culture. Discover the charm of the Adriatic Sea by bike and boat on board one of our charming motor yachts.
The days begin with a rich breakfast leaving you fit and ready to explore the diversity of the Kvarner Bay on guided cycling tours. 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 something new to discover. Evenings are mostly spent in picturesque harbour towns with winding alleyways where a great range of bars and cafes provide the perfect spot for a relaxing evening.
This tour sometimes takes place parallel to our MTB & Boat Kvarner Bay Standard tour on the same boat. One tour guide accompanies the mountain bikers whilst the other accompanies the hybrid cyclists. This is perfect for travellers who wish to spend their holiday together, but do not share the same riding style.
Highlights of this bike and boat trip
✔ Landscapes of green hills and rocky moon landscapes
✔ Small harbours rich in history and culture
✔ Medieval city of Rab
✔ Comfort Class bike cruise ship MS Linda
Itinerary
Day 1 (Fri): Omišalj (Embarkation) – Cres
Individual 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 ca.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 (Sat): Islands of Cres and Lošinj (Cycling 28 km / 18 miles)
In the morning our ship takes us to Martinšćica. From there we cycle on the east side of the island among pine, fig and laurel trees to Osor, an artist town, where we have lunch on the ship. Afterwards there is time for a swim in the bay with its crystal clear water. In the afternoon we leave Osor on board the boat and navigate our way to the island of Lošinj. After a comfortable cruise and a refreshing swim stop the ship brings us safely into the large harbor of Mali Lošinj. The clear climate of this wellness retreat with its colorful captain's houses and an abundance of cafes welcomes us for a relaxing evening, enabling us to unwind and recuperate.
Day 3 (Sun): Islands of Lošinj and Molat (Cycling 20 + 10 km / 12 + 6 miles)
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. Finally we stay overnight in the quiet harbor of Molat.
Day 4 (Mon): Island of Dugi Otok and Zadar (Cycling 32 km / 20 miles)
During breakfast, the ship leaves Molat taking us past numerous 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. We cycle along an almost traffic-free road to the northernmost point of the island, where the light house of Veli Rat stands proudly, fulfilling its duty guiding sailors safely on their way since 1849. A ride along the island’s “Road in the Sky” brings us to the peaceful harbour of Savar or Bribinj. There will be ample time for a swim break in the afternoon before we continue on to the small island of Olib for the night. There will be ample time for a swim break in the afternoon before we continue on to Zadar. Zadar has been the political, cultural and spiritual centre of Dalmatia for centuries. 3000 years of history have left their imprint on the character of this town and there are many things to be admired: the mighty fortified walls with their bastions, the loggia and the early Romanesque St. Donatus Basilica. In the evening our tour guide takes us on an extensive walk through the lively city centre.
Day 5 (Tue): Island of Pag - Rab (Cycling 34 km / 21 miles)
After a morning crossing, we reach the island of Pag. We cycle through the harsh yet delightful landscape, passing fig and olive trees along the way. Over the centuries, the people living here built numerous stone walls for protection against the wind. Starting in Mandre, we cycle on the narrow peninsula until we reach the sea once more in Lun. From here, the ship takes us to Rab Island, 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 is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the trip. The four famous bell towers are just one example of the town’s beauty. There is plenty of time to explore the narrow alleys with their numerous cosy cafés in the evening.
Day 6 (Wed): Island of Rab (Cycling 25 km / 15 miles)
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 (Thu): Island of Krk (Cycling 45 km / 28 miles)
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. The last evening aboard takes place traditionally and includes the communal dinner and a last get-together in a cosy atmosphere with crew and tour guides.
Day 8 (Fri): Omišalj (Disembarkation)
After breakfast disembarkation until 9 am and individual trip home or extended stay in Croatia.
Changes: We reserve the right to make changes to the itinerary, depending on wind and weather conditions or organizational requirements. Sometimes the tour could be conducted in reverse order. You may find further details in your booking information packet.
Please note: All cycling distances stated above are approximate only.
Map
MS Linda
Comfort Ship LINDA (all cabins with shower/toilet)
At 31 x 6 m, the Linda is a sleek wooden motor yacht rebuilt as an Islandhopping passenger ship in 2006.
There are 14 friendly guest cabins each with a private shower and WC. The spacious and tastefully furnished salon with its wooden tables and upholstered benches provides a welcoming atmosphere. The large sundeck and the two shaded decks at the stern are furnished with sun mats and comfortable lounge furniture. Perfect to unwind for a relaxing cruise.
Travel Dates & Prices 2024
Blue Sea discount
100 Euro discount per person for all departures in July and August (except voyages starting in June and ending in September).
The offer is valid from 01.05.24 for all new bookings until 31.05.24 and cannot be combined with other discounts such as child discount and discount for 3rd/4th person in a cabin.
Travel Dates and Prices 2024 per Person
Please click at the travel data to open the request form.
Route:
Price per person in a cabin below deck
1.190 €
Linda
1.290 €
Linda
1.290 €
Linda
1.240 €
Linda
1.240 €
Linda
1.240 €
Linda
1.240 €
Linda
1.240 €
Linda
1.240 €
Linda
1.240 €
Linda
1.290 €
Linda
1.290 €
Linda
1.290 €
Linda
1.290 €
Linda
Optional services / Notes
Surchage for cabin on deck
150,- €
Surcharge for a single cabin below deck
400,- €
Surcharge for a single cabin on deck
600,- €
Bicycle rental 21-speed hybrid/week
80,- €
E-Bike 8-gear/week
225,- €
Bike insurance/week
10,- €
Bike insurance E-Bike/week
25,- €
Parking spot (cars up to 6 m)
70,- €
Parking spot (cars more than 6 m)
120,- €
Collective transfer trin station Rijeka - Omisalj/p.p./way
on r,,- €
Transfer airport Rijeka - Omisalj/p.p./way
on r,,- €
Collective transfer Zagreb-Omisalj p.p./way
on r,,- €
- Minimum number of participants: 14
On 17.05., 14.06., 28.06. and 23.08. hybrid-and MTB tours will be operated parallel on the same boat, one tour guide will lead the hybrid bike group, the other one the mountain bike group.
Services included
- 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
- 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 bottled water and tourist taxes 60 euro per person for children up to age 16 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
Rental bikes
E-Bikes: Clients who wish to be supported by a tail-wind and seek to hire an e-bike will receive a high-quality pedelec, powered mainly by a Bosch motor capable of covering long distances, and characterized by their light weight and great components. Alternative drive systems may also be used. Standard components of our e-bikes in varying frame sizes include, 28 inch hollow chamber rims with puncture-proof touring tires, high-quality derailleur gears and break systems, a carrier and a sturdy bike stand, touring saddle as well as mudguards and a pannier rack. Unfortunately there is no possibility to reserve one particular bike-brand in advance.
Hybrid Bikes: Those choosing to rent a hybrid bike will receive a reliable, low maintenance, aluminum frame bike in the suitable size. Our hybrid bikes are equipped with 28 inch hollow chamber rims with puncture-proof touring tires, high-quality derailleur gears and break systems, a carrier and a sturdy bike stand, touring saddle as well as mudguards and a pannier rack. Unfortunately there is no possibility to reserve one particular bike-brand in advance.
Pannier: For the duration of the tour we supply you with a waterproof pannier by Ortlieb, a practical way of carrying drinks, bathing gear, camera etc. The use of our the panniers is free of charge.
Own e-bikes are not allowed!
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.
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.
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).
Cycling with children on this tour
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.
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.
Guided tour
The tour will be guided in German and English language.
Discounts
With three persons sharing a cabin, we allow a 50 % discount on the basic tour price for the third person, regardless of age (only possible below deck).
Children up to age 16 receive a discount of 25 % on the basic tour price (not combinable with the 50 % discount); Surcharge for single cabin use will be added.
Transfers
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: prices on request (reservation required two weeks in advance, booking incl. complete transmission of flight details - minimum 2 persons)
A safe parking space:
motorcycle: 40 euro/week; car up to 6 m in length: 70 euro/week, vehicle longer than 6 m: 120 euro/week (to be paid on-site to the tour guide)