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Guide to the Yacht Week Croatia Itinerary

By Susan Weston / October 21, 2023 / Leave a Comment

What is Yacht Week Croatia?

Yacht Week is a week-long sailing adventure around the Croatian Islands on your own Catamaran. It is basically college spring break with an itinerary of partying all day and night. Our boat was the oldest ranging from our late 20s to 52 (Damn Damon), but I had assumed it would all be college kids, and it wasn’t. Most boats were in their 20’s and early 30’s. Despite our ages, our boat was the party boat, and we ended up with quite the reputation.

Our Itinerary During Yacht Week Croatia

*Schedule subject to change.

Itinerary Day 1 – Trogir

Day 1 was frustrating. We were all super excited. We had already checked out of our hotels and had all our luggage with us, but we had to wait until almost 5 p.m. for the skipper and host to prepare the boat. We spent breakfast and lunch at the same restaurant (poor servers). Then we went to the pier and sat there waiting and waiting and waiting. It was a buzz kill for sure, but it all worked out. Just be prepared.

Shout out to our skipper, Simon and host, Mia! They were the best and were 100% the reason we had such a good time.

Itinerary Day 1 was spent waiting Yacht Week Croatia — Waiting for our boat to be ready

It’s important to know which marina your boat will leave from when planning your accommodations. We departed from ACL Marina Trogir, which is located farther away from Split but closer to the airport, so it worked out well for us. The pre-party on Day 1 was held at Padres, a bar located in Trogir. Since we were staying in Trogir, we could easily walk to the bar instead of taking a water taxi like other Yacht Week boats. Just a heads up – your catamaran will not leave the dock until Day 2.

Cover Charges During Yacht Week

Carpe Diem, Padres, Hula Hula, Club 585 and Fort George are private Yacht Week events. Other events are for the general public, but your Yacht Week bracelet grants free entry.

Group at Way Point Hvar drinking coffee Itinerary Day 2 — Marina Palmizana has Ice Coffee

Group at Carpe Diem Hvar Yacht Week Croatia — Carpe Diem Beach Hvar

Itinerary Day 2 – Hvar

We sailed to the ACL Marina Palmizana near Hvar. It is a small, secluded island with a beach, a coffee shop, and showers. In the evening, we took a water taxi to the beach club Carpe Diem, located on its island of Stipanska, for the Siren’s Call party. It was sad to see that many people didn’t follow the theme. Don’t be those people. After that, we took a boat taxi into Hvar and went to Kiva Bar. Hvar is a beautiful city with small alleys filled with bars and restaurants. Although Kiva was fun, it was packed with people.

Laundry During Yacht Week Croatia

The ACL Marina Palmizana has laundry facilities. It is a perfect time to do laundry because you will spend two nights here.

Itinerary Day 3 – Hvar

Today is usually day 5 on the itinerary, but it was changed due to the weather. Normally, it is a much-needed recharge day. We spent the day hanging out with all the other Yacht Weekers on our boats, as there wasn’t much to do on the small island. In the evening, we went into Hvar again. Our host recommended hiking 15 minutes to the fort for sunset, but it looked high, and we were lazy. There was a Yacht Week party at Hula Hula. It’s just a short walk from the water taxi drop-off.

Itinerary Day 2 Yacht Week Croatia — Yacht Week Catamaran at the ACL Marina Palmizana

Yacht Week Drinking Tip: Roadies

Get some roadies for your walk to Hula Hula. We didn’t, and our new friends from London gave me a warm beer. I was appreciative, but why is it only Americans who like super cold drinks?

Advice for Hula Hula, Hvar

Getting a drink at Hula Hula was impossible, but we walked another 2 minutes and found a bar on the right-hand side with no line and a better view. I even met a guy from my hometown, which is very small. It is a small world.

At dinner, I decided to practice my Croatian language skills. I learned that “živjeli” means “cheers” in Croatian. I thought I was pronouncing the word perfectly, but the waitress and my table mates did not agree. The waitress spent 5 minutes at our table trying to help me before shaking her head and giving up. Nonetheless, I will never forget the word; I even got it tattooed on my back in Croatian Script.

A few minutes walk past Hula Hula is another bar and this view.

Water Taxis

We bought round-trip tickets for our water taxi, but when we went to head home, we were told the taxi we had tickets for only came every hour. It was strange. They all looked the same. The man who claimed that “he wasn’t our taxi” allowed me to board anyway, so who knows. It was a rough ride. I ended up sitting on the floor of the tiny boat between all the passengers. At least I was protected from getting wet. Just make sure the boat is going back to the right marina.

Where to Eat: Silk (Ul. Sveti Marak 14, 21450, Hvar, Croatia) Serving Pan-Asian Fresh Street Food. Our host recommended it.

Itinerary Day 4 – Bol

On day 4 of the itinerary, we sailed to Bol. Our skipper was the lead, so we tied up along the waterfront while other boats had to anchor in the marina and take a tender. We walked 15 minutes along the beach to the Auro Beach Bar. The bar is at the island’s tip and was very windy, so beware. There is a little train that drives back and forth if you are feeling hungover. At night, everyone headed to Club 585. I won’t name names, but someone forgot I was in the bathroom on the boat and left without me. I’m blaming the alcohol.

Where to Eat: Taverna Riva (Frane radića 5, 21420 Bol, Croatia) – Located on the waterfront across from our catamaran. Beautiful view and delicious Mediterranean food.

Group at Taverna Riva eating dinner — Taverna Riva

Itinerary Day 5 – Sailing

Today was Regatta Day, which we thought would be a big event, but it turned out to be a simple sailing trip. We sailed together to our destination, where we anchored for the Tunnel Raft Party. Our group dressed in a Mario Cart theme for the Regatta but then changed into regular beach clothes.

The Tunnel Raft Party was a blast. All the boats were tied together in two long lines. A DJ played music from a boat in the middle, and everyone floated on their rafts and walked from boat to boat, enjoying the party. Again, we were lucky to have the lead skipper, so he ensured we were right next to the DJ. We transformed our boat into a Vegas Club with a VIP section guarded by a Velvet Rope. Damon and Johnny acted as bouncers, and anyone who passed by had to get a “Welcome to the Shit Show” tattoo. There was a rumor that our boat was the “Only Fans” boat, but that’s another story.

Catamaran's Yacht Week Regatta — Tunnel Raft DJ

Itinerary Day 6 – Vis

Half of the group went on a day trip to a cave, while I decided to stay behind and find a coffee shop with Wi-Fi. At this point, I still had no idea where I was going after Yacht Week. I had no plans for the eight days until my flight back to the US. We had one last dinner with our skipper and host and went to Fort George for the final party.

Where to Eat: Villa Rustica (Mijurovac ul. 16, 21480, Vis, Croatia) – Most of the Yacht Weekers went to Fort George for dinner before the party, but our host recommended this restaurant for traditional Croatian food. It was delicious and within walking distance from our boat.

Itinerary Day 6
Yacht Week Confession Booth — Confession Booth on the Final Night of Yacht Week at Fort George

Itinerary Day 7 – Back to Marina

Sadly, we had to sail back to the marina. We stopped and had one more opportunity to swim before packing and cleaning.

And that is what the itinerary looks like on Yacht Week in Croatia. Would I go again? Absolutely. Have you already booked your trip? Check out the Top 11 Tips to Know Before Yacht Week Croatia.

Top 11 Tips for Yacht Week Croatia

By Susan Weston / October 21, 2023 / Leave a Comment

Welcome to the Shit Show that was Yacht Week Croatia 2023. This summer, I checked another item off my bucket list. After a week of partying through the islands of Croatia, I have 11 tips to ensure you have the best Yacht Week.

1. Make a Flag, Stickers, etc

We were lucky to have a boat just for our group. Since we are from Las Vegas, our theme was “Welcome to the Shit Show.” We had a flag made, and someone (Thanks, Nevarez) had the great idea of getting temporary tattoos made. By the time the week was over, most people on Yacht Week were sporting a “Welcome to the Shit Show” tattoo. It helped that we were a very outgoing boat. Have your group create a theme or name. Design a flag along with tattoos, stickers, etc. It will make it easy to meet other boats and have fun.

Temporary Tattoos — Everyone wanted a “Welcome to the Shit Show” Tattoo

2. Bring Water Floats

During the Tunnel Raft Party, everyone floated between the boats. Get something fun with a drink holder.

3. Have Euros

You will need Euros for the onboard kitty and at most bars and restaurants. Many ATMs were out of money, so be prepared before you leave Split.

PLEASE READ:
Exchanging Money in Foreign Countries

While traveling, I never convert money at a money exchange office. I only use ATMs. Some people will argue this is a horrible idea, but they are not using the ATM correctly.

The machine will try to trick you. It will ask if you would like to use their conversion rate. This rate will be horrible, so say No. You are not saying no to withdrawing money, just letting the machine convert it. If you say NO, your bank will make the conversion at the best rate.

This is also true when making purchases with your card. Say NO when the card reader asks if you want to convert the amount to USD.

Some ATMs have high ATM fees, but it will still be the best deal to get local currency. If you want to avoid all ATM fees, get a Charles Swab Investor Checking account. It is free to open, and they reimburse ATM fees worldwide.

Need more clarification or want more information? This website explains it better than I can.

4. Participate in Theme Nights

My number one suggestion is to participate in all activities, including themes. It will make the whole experience more fun.

There are two “theme nights” and a daytime regatta. Come up with a group costume for the regatta. Our boat was dressed in Mario Kart characters.

Dressing for the theme nights can be confusing. The first theme, Siren’s Call, suggests people wear ruffles, sequins and shimmer to bring out their “inner mermaid,” but the Pinterest board they reference is all over the place. I wore a pink sequin dress. The second theme, The Lost Fortress of Atlantis, was more straightforward. Wear Blue.

5. Reserve A Host

GET A HOST! This is the most important tip for Yacht Week Croatia. I don’t know how people do it without one. It was expensive, but our host Mia cooked, cleaned, and got our asses in gear every day. Your host cooks breakfast and lunch daily and dinner on two nights. They also do the grocery shopping. The price of groceries is not included, and it says online that you are expected to pay for your skipper and host’s dinners on the other five nights. We took our hosts to dinner twice, so that rule wasn’t strictly enforced. Our host made so much food that we weren’t usually hungry for dinner. When I read the details, it sounded like a rip-off, but it was worth it. Other boats were eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches the whole time. Make sure you get up for breakfast. It is worth it.

We were lucky to get the best skipper and host. Thank you, Mia and Simon!

6. Pack Ear Plugs

It is loud. People are drinking and partying. The boats are tied together, meaning people walk across your boat at all hours. If you have any trouble sleeping with noise, bring earplugs. Consider splurging on a nice set of earplugs over the basic foam ones. They are a good investment if you spend time at concerts and festivals.

7. Bring a Universal Adapter

Croatia operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. This means items that are not dual voltage will need a voltage converter. Luckily, most items are dual voltage. Your phone, computer and most electronics are dual voltage, but remember always to check first. The major problem lies with hair tools. You can buy hair straighteners and curling irons that are dual voltage. Most major brands are already dual voltage, but check the box before purchasing. Very few hair dryers are dual voltage. If you will need a hair dryer for Yacht Week, make sure you use a voltage converter.

Even if your device is dual-voltage, you will still need an adapter. Croatia has two associated plug types, types C and F.

Warning!

Be careful using a dual-voltage device in a voltage converter. You only need an adapter. I blew my dual-voltage straightener by plugging it into a converter.

8. Pack an Extra Beach Towel

You will only be provided with one towel. Bring an extra beach towel for laying out in the sun. You don’t want to be showering with a sandy towel.

9. Showering

Although your boat will have showers, they have limited water. You will want to save your water for cooking and cleaning. A boat shower should be 30 seconds – wet, lather, rinse. At every port, there are showers you can use, but they are a few minutes walk from the boat. Bring a bag to carry your shower supplies back and forth.

Travel Tip

Hotels and hostels usually have hair dryers available. I never pack a hair dryer when I travel, but if you need one for Yacht Week, you must bring your own.

10. Keep Your Drinks Cold

No one wants a watered-down drink. Bring one insulated water bottle to drink water from and another for your cocktails.

11. Download Apps

Splitwise

Splitwise is a great app to have for group travel. Instead of trying to keep track of who buys the next round, enter all expenses in the app, and Spliwise will keep track of how much money each person owes at the end of the trip. You can even send and receive money through the app.

WhatsApp is the universal messaging and phone app. If you have ever traveled abroad, you know what WhatsApp is. Communicate with your group and any friends you want to “hang out” with after last call. Most hotels, cabs and restaurants outside the US advertise their WhatsApp number.

Day 8

Day 8 is the official Yacht Week app. You can review your itinerary each day. You can also meet the rest of your Yacht Week Crew before the trip. During our week, a guy posted a photo of his friend getting a pedicure before yacht week. I don’t think his friend was very happy when 100 people asked to see his pedicure on the first day.

Now you have the top 10 tips you should know before Yacht Week Croatia. Next, check out the Guide to The Yacht Week Croatia Itinerary.

What to do (and not do) in the Jewel at Singapore’s Changi Airport

By Susan Weston / September 29, 2023 / Leave a Comment

I wanted to live in Singapore’s Changi Airport for 24 hours. I know that sounds weird, but it is the number one airport in the world. The airport has four terminals and the Jewel. This article is part two of my guide to Singapore’s airport. Part one covers the terminals, while part two covers the Jewel.

Part One – How to spend 24 hours in Singapore’s Changi Airport

Honestly, skip the jewel and spend the 24 hours exploring the airport terminals unless you have extra time. There is even a secret way to see the world’s tallest indoor waterfall without leaving the terminals.

What is the Jewel at Singapore’s Changi Airport?

The Jewel is a mall that is open to the public. The centerpiece is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.

What is the layout of the Jewel?

L4/L5 of the Jewel appeared to be kid-oriented. L3 had the majority of sit-down restaurants. L1-L3 was dedicated to shopping. Let me rephrase: high-end shopping. B2 had a food court and a grocery store.

Where to Stay?

We spent one night at the YotelAir, which was outside security. We landed late at night, and staying at the YotelAir was the easiest. They have free coffee in the morning and a sitting area overlooking the mall with internet. It is a great place to get work done.

What about luggage?

Please store your luggage if you are visiting the Jewel for the day. We spent too much time dodging people’s large bags. The baggage storage in the Jewel is located on Level 1 (near the Early Check-In Lounge). Due to the long walk, I recommend picking up your luggage before heading to the terminals. There are places to store your luggage in the terminals themselves. Baggage storage is available 24 hours a day. See prices here.

Get a Free Singapore Sling

Get a free Singapore Sling at the Tapas Bar if flying on Singapore Airlines. Simply present boarding pass and spend SGD 30. The Tapas bar is located on Level 3.

What unique attractions are in the Jewel?

Motorized “Children” Animal Ride

Outside the Yotel were motorized animals that you (children) could ride a part of the mall. These are for children, and the first person I asked said I was not allowed to ride them, but I asked another woman who begrudgingly agreed. It costs SGD 12 for five rides. Cliff ended up with the slowest animal and was getting lapped but all the children.

Foosball

We found a foosball table, and we had to play a round. I lost.

Shiseido Forest Valley’s West Trail

The best way to experience the waterfall from inside the Jewel is the Shiseido Forest Trail. This walkway is accessible from each level and winds down the side of the wall surrounding the waterfall. Best Part: It’s Free

What attractions should be avoided in the Jewel?

Canopy Park

DO NOT DO! This includes the Hedge Maze, Mirror Maze, Walking Net and Bouncing Net! It was SGD 54 for an adult. Each attraction is a small walkthrough with nothing more interesting than the jewel itself.

Canopy Bridge

DO NOT DO! The Canopy Bridge is a 100 feet long glass-bottom walkway with the same view as the free walkway 10 ft away.

Avoid the Elevators

The elevators take forever and are full of people and luggage. Take the Shiseido Forest Valley’s west trail for a quicker trip and a better view.

Everyone needs a photo with the waterfall

You can not visit Singapore’s Changi Airport without seeing the infamous waterfall, but that doesn’t mean you must visit the Jewel. There is a way to see the waterfall without even leaving security, and in my opinion, the view is more impressive. Take the train between terminals 2 and 3. It passes through the Jewel next to the waterfall. You can take the train both landslide and airside.

If you are a shopper or foodie, then the Jewel might be for you, but I think there are better ways to spend your 24 hours living in the mall. Check out my guide to spending 24 hours in Singapore’s Changi Airport.

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