By Sea Adventures

Everything is better by the water, and exploring by sea is nothing short of extraordinary. We handpick boats that slip into the tiniest island ports and yachts that glide into hidden inlets unreachable by larger vessels, delivering you to offshore playgrounds far from the crowds. Each day brings a new adventure—whether you’re kayaking along rocky coastlines, diving into crystal-clear waters or wandering quiet seaside villages. From the cultural mosaic of the Mediterranean to the untouched wilderness of the Galapagos, we’ve redefined what it means to travel by sea.

This is the best Bespoke component for Trip Types!

We choose ships that moor in the tiniest island ports and yachts that cruise into inlets that larger vessels can't touch. That way we can deliver you to the most amazing offshore playgrounds (and keep you a good distance from the crowds). On any day you might swim in a sea so blue you'll want to invent a new colour for it; bike through an ancient olive grove; spend the afternoon in a quiet cafe or simply enjoying drinks on deck. From the cultural mosaic of the Mediterranean Sea to the pristine wilderness of the Galapagos Islands, we’ve re-invented cruising.

By Sea with Butterfield & Robinson is not just a journey, but an immersion, offering discerning travelers a chance to rediscover the world's most enchanting coastlines at a leisurely pace.

By Sea | Butterfield & Robinson

To truly understand Italy’s most enigmatic island, we explore it by sea, setting sail in an exquisite&nbsp;gulet&nbsp;that will serve as our home during our voyage. Biking or hiking off the ship each day, we explore sheep-covered hills, vertiginous limestone cliffs that plunge into the cobalt sea, and the glam of Costa Smeralda. Unforgettable? Cruising to La Maddalena and Corsica.B&amp;R Experience Designer Georgia Yuill has been named a Top Travel Specialist by Condé Nast Traveler.Please Note! This trip offers 12 available spaces, so book early to secure your spots. Or, get in touch with a Travel Advisor to Privatize the departure for an exclusive journey with your crew.

Italian Coastal Wellness

Our warm-up ride begins in the hilltop town of San Pantaleo, one of Sardinia’s most scenic villages. Pedal to Lu Beddu Winery for a first taste of Sardinian cuisine. Join the captain for an aperitivo and starlit dinner aboard the gulet.

After breakfast on the Elianora, we sail to Caprera, the second-largest island in the Maddalena archipelago. Views of the seascape and intricate granite formations punctuate our journey before enjoying local specialties at a charming locanda.

Cross the Strait of Bonifacio to Corsica, a historical crossroads shaped by diverse rulers. After a hike beneath white cliffs to Bonifacio's citadel, you'll have free time to explore town or enjoy an aperitif with Corsican locals.

Ride inland to a family-run farm to witness and sample the pastoral and cheese crafting process. After lunch, either hike to Bonifacio or return by tender to our gulet. 

We cruise from Bonifacio to Santa Giulia, then hop on our bikes for a coastal ride to Porto Vecchio. After lunch and optional exploration, we return to the gulet for dinner along the serene coastline.

After cruising to a spectacular bay, explore Spargi island on foot. Enjoy lunch and some water sports before a celebratory final dinner aboard the gulet, embracing the Sardinian sunset.

Following breakfast, we disembark and board awaiting transportation for the 40-minute drive to Olbia airport. 

M/S Elianora 

To truly understand Italy’s most enigmatic island, we explore it by sea, setting sail in an exquisite&nbsp;gulet&nbsp;which will serve as our home during our voyage. Biking or hiking off the ship each day, we explore sheep-covered hills, vertiginous limestone cliffs that plunge into the cobalt sea, and the glam of Costa Smeralda. Unforgettable? Cruising to La Maddalena and Corsica.

Discover a different side of the Adriatic as we unveil our cherished hidden islands. We'll lead you to the most beautiful spots in the Kornati Islands and Lake Vrna, renowned biodiversity hotspots in Croatia. Dive into Šibenik's ancient charm and absorb a thousand years of history in its old-town marvels. Indulge in the Dalmatian high-life while savouring crisp wines and fresh seafood as the sun sets on board. Beware, though: this experience might ignite a desire to move here permanently.

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Discover a different side of the Adriatic as you navigate Croatia's cherished hidden islands by superyacht.&nbsp;We'll lead you to the most picturesque spots in the Kornati Islands and along Lake Vrna, renowned biodiversity hotspots. Delve into Šibenik's ancient charm and absorb a thousand years of history from its old-town marvels. Indulge in the Dalmatian high-life while savouring crisp wines and fresh seafood as the sun sets on board. Gain insight into Croatian traditions while conquering coastal landscapes by bike and on foot; unwinding each day on your floating hotel.

An unforgettable B&R Travel Experience

Croatia's Secret Archipelagos

Take a warm-up ride past medieval villages and fragrant pine forests. Sip cocktails on the upper deck and witness the dramatic landscape seemingly float by. Stop for a swim in a secluded azure bay before indulging in a fabulous welcome dinner on board.

Cruise through Krka fjord, arriving at the riverside town of Skradin, the gateway to Krka National Park. Choose between a challenging bike ride or a leisurely walk with a local ranger. After lunch, swim and relax onboard before cruising to the island of Zirje, with a population of 105 residents.

Set sail for the Kornati Islands, consisting of 140 barren islands, islets and reefs. Marvel at the mysterious karstic landscape, with jagged coastlines and turquoise waters. Explore the islands' ancient traces and enjoy a spectacular dinner in Telascica's protected bay.

Glide through the Mala Proversa channel and start today's bike ride in the village of Sali. Enjoy coastal views as we pedal along the island's length. Set sail to the ancient city of Zadar and explore its rich history, including Roman ruins and the unique Sea Organ. 

Cruise to the island of Ugljan, where today's bike ride follows the coastal road to the connected Island of Pasman. During a leisurely cruise, we'll head south to Zlarin, known as "the island of coral." Explore this traditional art and enjoy dinner at a local konoba.

Your destination today is the dreamy island of Drvenik. Walk along peaceful macadam pathways, passing stone chapels and pebble beaches, until you reach the stunning Blue Lagoon where our yacht awaits. In the evening, we'll cruise to a nearby bay, capturing the last rays of sun for a memorable final night celebration.

Enjoy one final breakfast on board before we say 'doviđenja' in Split.

Hop aboard the Agape Rose yacht and sail through Croatia's hidden islands, traversing pristine waters and indulging in seaside tavernas and sunshine.

Your Island Odyssey

Set Sail on the Adriatic

Agape Rose

Accommodation & Dining

Active Essentials

Guided Services

Logistics and Gratuities

Bespoke travel lets you take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

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Air Conditioner

Hard Hike

Uneven Footing

What's Not Included

Adriatic Islands Multi-Active | Butterfield & Robinson

Here, you can sail into a turquoise cove with no other boats in sight, walk barefoot down a powdery white beach, sit yourself down on lava rock and watch a baby sea lion sneak up for a closer inspection. A pantheon of the animal kingdom's strangest and most wonderful creatures await just off the coast of Ecuador, and here, you'll get closer to them than you ever thought possible. Discover Ecuador &amp; the Galapagos Islands on a private, bespoke trip—tailored-made your way. Here are a few ideas to help get you started.

Explore the land that stirred Darwin and turned science on its ear

Mingle with rare species, navigate untouched volcanic landscapes and rest like royalty aboard your luxury floating hotel. You'll wake up to a new setting every day as you sail between turquoise coves. Hang with giant tortoises on Isabela Island, lay eyes on penguins and warblers dotting Elizabeth Bay's rocky outlets to kayak with a colony of sea lions in a secluded saltwater lagoon. Drip-dry on your airy sundeck—drink in hand—after adventure-filled days visiting the islands.

Ecuador & Galapagos Active by Boat

There's no end to spectacular encounters with wildlife here. Hike past ancient trees, rare colourful birds and howler monkeys in the Mashpi Biodiversity Reserve's cloud forests. Spot sparkling fireflies surrounded by the faint glow of bioluminescent fungi on the rainforest Luminous Trail. Settle in at luxe tented Galapagos Safari Camp and savour meals made with fresh Ecuadorian ingredients—sourced locally whenever possible. After dinner, gape at the wide-open starry sky before strolling off for your night under canvas.

Ecuador Multi-Active Expedition

Swim, hike and walk through white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and tropical island landscapes. Learn about Darwin's 19th c. discoveries from your naturalist guides, who study and preserve this important UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kick back at the remote Pikea Lodge, smack dab in the centre of a giant tortoise reserve. Days are filled with excursions aboard the hotel's Pikaia yacht and evenings are by the pool, drinking in the breathtaking views.&nbsp;

Galapagos Family Adventure

Bespoke travel lets you take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

The Dalmatian Coast is meant to be experienced by sea. While others hop from hotel to hotel, we unpack once—aboard the region’s top luxury yacht, no less. Hop aboard the ideal vessel for cruising up to sun-drenched islands, hushed inlets and secluded beaches. Daily off-ship adventures, by bike and foot, see us exploring scenic coastal roads, diving deep into historic towns with local experts and clinking glasses with our wine-making friends.Please note: our September 2024 departure runs from Split to Dubrovnik

The Dalmatian Coast is meant to be experienced by sea. While others hop from hotel to hotel, we unpack once—aboard the region’s top luxury yacht, no less. Hop aboard the ideal vessel for cruising up to sun-drenched islands, hushed inlets and secluded beaches. Daily off-ship adventures, by bike and foot, see us exploring scenic coastal roads, diving deep into historic towns with local experts and clinking glasses with our wine-making friends. 

Please note: our September 2024 departure runs from Split to Dubrovnik 

Set sail from Dubrovnik to Split

Island hopping by luxury yacht

Hop on board the Agape Rose and cruise to the Elafiti Islands, sipping cocktails while soaking in the scenery. After lunch onboard in a serene cove, explore the island of Lopud before dinner together in Sipan.

Cruise from Sipan to Mljet's Sobra, where you'll embark on a challenging bike ride spanning the island, leading to Mijet National Park. Enjoy breathtaking vistas, a serene lunch by the shore, and return to the boat for a sunset dinner in Polace Bay, followed by watersport activities.

Take a short crossing to the mainland from Mljet aboard Agape Rose, then start today's bike ride on the Peljesac Peninsula. Cycle past vineyards to a wine tasting at Grgic Winery. This evening, explore Korcula on a walking tour and savour local cuisine at a family-owned restaurant.

Cycle along a significant portion of Korcula Island, starting in Korcula town and ending in Prizba. Enjoy a wine-tasting at Frano's winery and indulge in a delicious lunch by the coast. After a swim, set sail to the tiny island of Vis, dating back to 4th c. BC. 

Wake up in Vis, known for its Greek colony heritage and former military base. Take a scenic walk to a mountain hut for incredible views, and enjoy drinks at a Gastonia. After a BBQ lunch on board, the Agape Rose will dock in chic Hvar Town, where you can explore the castle or stroll through the narrow streets. 

Take a morning ride through Hvar Island's lavender fields and limestone formations. Descend into Stari Grad and continue through UNESCO-protected plains to the coastal town of Jelsa for a seaside lunch. Set sail for Split, where we'll enjoy a final sunset meal aboard the Agape Rose, toasting to a memorable Dalmatian adventure. 

Enjoy breakfast this morning as the Agape Rose crosses to the city of Split to disembark at the central port. Airport shuttles are available to travellers not staying in the city of Diocletian for a night or two (which, we highly recommend). 

The itinerary below is a sample and is subject to slight changes in routes, accommodations and activities. Please download the itinerary for your selected departure for precise details.

Preview the itinerary

The Dalmatian Coast is meant to be experienced by sea. While others hop from hotel to hotel, we unpack once—aboard the region’s top luxury yacht, no less. With only six cabins, the M/Y Dalmatino is the ideal vessel for cruising up to sun-drenched islands, hushed inlets and secluded beaches. Daily off-ship adventures, by bike and foot, see us exploring scenic coastal roads, diving deep into historic towns with local experts and clinking glasses with our wine-making friends.

Dalmatian Coast Active | Butterfield & Robinson

Travelling through Croatia is a passage to a time when things were simpler and slower. A time when laundry billowed in gentle summer breezes, children played within time-worn walled cities and scampered across polished stone alleyways. From the south coast to the north coast, visit primeval fortresses, pastel-coloured seaside villages and sparkling bays. Feast on freshly caught fish, prsut, home-cured ham, wild olives and garden-plucked juicy tomatoes. Try the seriously good local wines, swim in the crystal clear Adriatic, and chat with the villagers over rich coffee.

Experience the Dalmatian Coast

Experience the Dalmatian Coast the only way possible: by sea. Stretched across the Adriatic, Croatia boasts thousands of rugged limestone islands and miles of pebbled coastline. Hop off your small luxury yacht and pedal the quaint countryside, poke around breathtaking fortresses surrounded by coves and sample the island’s tastiest wines in the private home of the winemaker. Explore the red-roofed, stunning Dubrovnik at your own pace. Later: cool your jets in the crystal-clear Adriatic and soak up a sunset from the back deck on fairy-tale Hvar.

Croatia by Sea

Spin through the fragrant lavender landscapes of Hvar. Ride through the hills overlooking the town, amidst the ancient stone walls, white sand beaches, and sprawling vineyards that produce some of Croatia's best wines. Ride along a spectacular ridge with views that stretch to the north and south&nbsp;of the Adriatic. Descend a winding hill to a former Greek colony and sip fresh coffee at any seaside café. Watch the endless parade of boats with the fishers working tirelessly to untangle their nets.

Croatia by Bike

Outside of Dubrovnik, the Peljesac Peninsula boasts some of the best wines in Croatia and indeed, the most dramatic vine real estate in the world. With rows and rows of grapes rising straight from the shoreline and up the craggy hillside of the finger-like Peninsula, wineries dot the area and make for the perfect pit stops during your walks. If oysters are your taste, we'll whisk you away to the village of Ston to spend time with a local fisher and learn how they harvest these delicacies. Slurp them fresh from the sea, paired with a crisp white, from one of the neighbouring wineries.

Croatian Food & Wine

Journey through the emerald islands, private beaches and medieval cities of the Dalmatian Archipelago. Through your journey, along the coast, detour to the interior of the Balkan Peninsula - the melting pot of Europe - high in the mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Visit the Balkan countryside, and explore its fortresses, rocky shorelines and mountains, known for its remarkable flora and fauna.

Croatia & Montenegro Multi-Active

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Villa Katarina

Grand Park Hotel Rovinj

Palace Elisabeth, Hvar Heritage Hotel

Villa Dubrovnik

Maslina Resort

One&Only Portonovi

Expertly curated with our favourite experiences in each destination, these departures bring together a maximum of 16 like-minded travellers on pre-set dates.

Want a set itinerary instead? 

Explore our Scheduled trips

Journey through the emerald islands, private beaches and medieval cities of the Dalmatian Archipelago on a private Croatian adventure.

Croatia Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Set sail through Croatia’s Adriatic Islands on board your private yacht. Experience the breathtaking and diverse landscapes of our favourite hidden islands as your captain and crew guide you through the northern coast. You’ll venture off-ship to explore Krka’s cascading waterfalls, cruise through the mysterious Kornati Islands and immerse yourself in Zadar’s ancient architecture, all on your own time.

exploring hidden islands by private yacht

Welcome to Croatia. Hop on your bikes this morning for a beautiful ride through Split’s Marjan Park. Back in town, your yacht, captain and crew await your arrival. Settle in on board with a glass of bubbly as you begin your journey sailing north. TR

Pedal through the picturesque hamlet of Rogoznica for your first ride, overlooking the sea, olive groves and lush vineyards along the way. Indulge in lunch on board, stopping for a refreshing swim before docking in Sibenik. Enjoy dinner in town tonight, with options including a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Cruise through the spectacular Krka fjord, disembarking to explore Krka National Park by bike or foot. Explore the breathtaking natural landscape, waterfalls and canyons in the park before returning to your yacht. Tonight, cruise to the secluded Žirje Island for overnight anchorage. 

Enjoy breakfast on board while enjoying the sights of the mysterious and spectacular Kornati Islands come into view. The islands are yours to explore- there are dozens of bays to swim, snorkel and more. Sail toward Telascica for a fresh seafood dinner. 

Wake up slowly as you cruise along Mala Proversa, heading toward the island of Dugi Otok. Arrive in Sali, hopping on your bikes to pedal this long island toward the famous Veli Rat lighthouse. Later, explore the ancient city of Zadar on a city tour. 

Arrive in Preko, where your bikes await to pedal along the coastal road that connects Ugljan to Pasman Island by bridge. Roll through several fishing villages, catching the sights of the mountains on the mainland. Lunch on board as you cruise to Murter, your home for the night. TR

Hop on your bikes to explore the ancient coastal town of Vodice, dating back to 1402. Climb aboard your yacht to indulge in lunch on board and a rewarding swim break in the turquoise waters. Tonight, cruise to Trogir with a cocktail in hand, the perfect setting for your final night.

Enjoy breakfast as you cruise to the Trogir Marina. From here, you'll be driven to the airport or your post-trip hotel.

Cardano

$17,395 based on 2 travellers. $9,995 based o based on 2 travellers. $11,195 based on 4 travellers.

Float on the Seto Inland Sea aboard the Guntû—a small ship that fuses the luxury of a yacht with a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn.