Free Diving

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Dive into caves, reefs, and wrecks as you sail from cove to cove, exploring Croatia’s wild underwater world in true Maca style - off the beaten path, close to nature, and always led by the thrill of discovery.

Adventure Insights

Location:

Explore reefs, wrecks, sea caves in Palagruža, Lastovo, Korčula, Hvar, Vis, Biševo, Rodi Garganico

Difficulty:

Beginner to Advanced (5 m to 40 m+ depths)

Duration:

8

Itinerary

The Adriatic is more than turquoise waters and dramatic coastlines - it’s a paradise for freedivers and sailors alike. Over eight days, explore Croatia’s pristine underwater landscapes, from shallow reefs teeming with marine life to deep caves and WWII wrecks. Whether perfecting your breath-hold for a shallow dive or tackling technical descents to historic wrecks, this trip blends adventure and relaxation seamlessly, culminating in the magical Blue Grotto on Biševo. Disclaimer: Dive sites and activities will be adjusted to accommodate different experience levels, ensuring both beginner and advanced freedivers have a fulfilling and safe adventure.
Day 1:
Set Sail – Rodi Garganico to Palagruža
Robert, guide for Maca Adventures, diving into open water during a coastal exploration

Kick off your adventure in Rodi Garganico at 15:00. Meet the crew, get a safety briefing, and settle into your floating home. Set sail for 3-4 hours across the Adriatic to the remote island of Palagruža. Drop anchor and enjoy your first dinner on deck, with the stars overhead and anticipation building.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Private Sail Boat
Day 2:
Reef Warm-Up – Palagruža to Korčula
Due subacquei risalgono verso la superficie, uno collegato a una cima principale con un istruttore che lo monitora attentamente al suo fianco, circondati da acqua blu calma e bolle che salgono

Start the day diving Palagruža’s reef and wall sites. Beginners explore colorful shallows while advanced divers descend steep drop-offs. After lunch, sail 7-8 hours to Vela Luka, Korčula. If time allows, enjoy a late afternoon dive along the coast.

Freediving Spots:
  • Palagruža Reef (5–15 m)
  • Galijula Wall (15–40 m)
Meals: Breakfast/brunch, snacks, dinner
Day 3:
Blue Holes & Coastal Caves – Korčula
Two girls diving into crystal clear water, enjoying an underwater adventure together.

Spend the day diving some of Korčula’s best sites: the Blue Hole, sea caves, and vibrant reef walls. You'll encounter lobsters, morays, and even seahorses. Evening is free to relax onboard or take a stroll in Vela Luka’s harbor.

Freediving Spots:
  • Big Cave (10–25 m)
  • Blue Hole (10–30 m)
  • Plic Drašan Wreck (10–30 m)
Meals: Breakfast/brunch, snacks, dinner
Day 4:
Pinnacles & Coral Caves - Hvar’s Pakleni Islands
ubacqueo all'interno di una grotta sottomarina, con raggi di luce solare che filtrano dall'ingresso sullo sfondo, proiettando un bagliore drammatico sull'interno roccioso.

Sail 3-4 hours to Marinkovac and explore the Pakleni Islands’ rich dive sites. From the vertical tower of Campanile to the colorful Vela Garska cave, this area offers something for every level.

Freediving Spots:
  • Campanile (10–40 m)
  • Vela Garska Cave (5–20 m)
  • Stambedar Pinnacle (5–20 m)
Meals: Breakfast/brunch, snacks, dinner
Day 5:
Optional Adventures – Hvar
Two boats sailing on the clear blue sea off the coast of Croatia during a sunny day.

Choose your activity: more dives, a hike to St. Nicholas Peak, or even rock climbing on sea cliffs. Or simply enjoy a slow day at anchor. The crew adapts to your vibe.

Freediving Spots:
  • Campanile (10–40 m)
  • Vela Garska Cave (5–20 m)
  • Stambedar Pinnacle (5–20 m)
Meals: Breakfast/brunch, snacks, dinner
Day 6:
Caves & Cliffs – Vis
Scuba diver moving along the cave floor, navigating through a submerged underwater passage surrounded by rock walls and low visibility, exploring the depths below.

Sail to Komiža on the island of Vis (3–4 hours) and dive the island’s iconic caves and vertical walls. Explore the Green Cave and Host Wall, full of octopus, gorgonians, and underwater light shows.

Freediving Spots (Biševo):
  • Green Cave (5-20 m)
  • Host Wall (5-25 m)
Meals: Breakfast/brunch, snacks, dinner
Day 7:
Finale at Biševo – Night Sail to Rodi Garganico
Robert from Maca Adventure floating with open arms above a vibrant underwater reef in Croatia, surrounded by colorful coral formations and clear turquoise water, capturing a moment of freedom and connection with nature

Spend your last day diving the dramatic underwater terrain of Biševo before setting sail at night back to Italy. Relax with a final dinner on deck and let the rhythm of the waves carry you home.

  • Biševo Pinnacle (10-25 m)
Meals: Breakfast/brunch, snacks, dinner
Day 8:
Return – Rodi Garganico
Excess 14 catamaran anchored in a Croatian bay with swimming wetsuits hanging on the side to dry in the sun.

Arrive in port by 9:00. Share breakfast, say your goodbyes, and head home with new skills, stories, and salt in your soul.

Meals: Breakfast

Meet your guides

Robert from Maca Adventure descending into the depths alongside a vertical guide rope, surrounded by deep blue water as he focuses on his freediving descent
Robert - Chief Guide

Robert is a highly experienced diver with years of exploration in wrecks, caves, and deep-sea environments. His extensive knowledge of the Adriatic’s best dive sites and passion for the ocean make him the perfect guide for your underwater adventure.

Carlo, Maca’s chief skipper, standing on the deck of the Excess 14 catamaran during a sailing adventure.
Carlo - Chief Skipper

With years of experience navigating the Adriatic and beyond, Carlo is the backbone of every sailing adventure. As Chief Skipper, he ensures smooth sailing, safety, and the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation on the open sea.

Explore the Boats

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Matì - Catamaran

Sail with Maca’s Excess 14, where unmatched comfort meets top-tier performance. Perfect for unforgettable adventures on the open sea.

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Don Carlo - Sailing Yacht

Explore the Adriatic aboard the Sun Odyssey 490 - spacious, comfortable, built for adventure.

Matì - Catamaran

Sail with Maca’s Excess 14, where unmatched comfort meets top-tier performance. Perfect for unforgettable adventures on the open sea.

Don Carlo - Sailing Yacht

Explore the Adriatic aboard the Sun Odyssey 490 - spacious, comfortable, and built for adventure.

8

Days

€2,700
/Person
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Things to Know

What’s Included in Your Maca Adventure?

Your 8-day guided freediving adventure includes:

  • Daily guided freediving sessions across Palagruža, Lastovo, Korčula, Hvar, Vis, Biševo, and Rodi Garganico.
  • Private sailing boat or catamaran accommodation (Excess 14/Sun Odyssey 490).
  • All meals listed in the itinerary: breakfasts/brunches and dinners.
  • Certified freediving instructor onboard and local guides if needed.
  • Tender boat support for dive site access.
  • Bed linen and bath towels.
  • Full onboard comfort: Wi-Fi, AC, generator, watermaker, SUP, snorkel gear.
  • Fuel and onboard utilities.
  • Technical briefings and daily itinerary support.
  • Entrance fees to marine natural parks.
  • Onboard cash fund: €300 per person, payable at boarding, covering food, pantry service, bedsheets, towels, and shared onboard expenses.

If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, let us know at booking, and we’ll accommodate them.

What’s Not Included?
  • Flights to and from Italy.
  • Personal freediving equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, etc.).
  • Meals on land.
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory).
  • Port fees outside Rodi Garganico.
  • Alcoholic beverages (optional shared fund).
  • Transfers from Bari or Pescara (available upon request at a special price).
  • Everything not explicitly listed under “What’s Included” is considered excluded.

How Fit Do I Need to Be?

This adventure is suitable for all levels - from beginner freedivers (comfortable to 5 meters) to experienced divers (40m+). A reasonable fitness base is recommended, as daily sessions involve repeated dives and optional light physical activities such as snorkeling, exploration, or hiking. Certified instructors tailor each session to your ability, ensuring safety and enjoyment.

What if I’ve Never Tried Freediving Before?

No problem! Beginners are welcome and will receive introductory training from certified instructors. You’ll learn basic skills, safety protocols, and gradually progress at your own pace. For experienced divers, the trip offers daily coaching, technique refinement, and opportunities to explore more advanced sites.

What Do I Need to Bring?

Space is limited onboard, so pack light in a soft, foldable bag (avoid hard-shell suitcases).

Required:

  • Wetsuit (3-5 mm)
  • Fins
  • Mask and snorkel
  • Sport clothing
  • Small backpack
  • Hiking or running shoes

Recommended:

  • Windbreaker
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Light gloves
  • Energy snacks

General Gear for All Maca Adventures:

  • Flip flops or sandals (for the boat)
  • Clean, non-marking shoes (for the deck)
  • Beach towel & personal towel
  • Swimwear, sunscreen, after-sun lotion
  • Waterproof windbreaker
  • Personal medications, power bank, small daypack
  • Pack for warm days and cool evenings, with layers for variable weather

Group Sizes, Age Requirements, Meals and Accommodations

  • Group Size: Up to 12 participants for a personalized, community-based experience.
  • Guide Ratio: Certified freediving instructor plus a skipper and/or tour leader.
  • Age Requirements:
    • 18+ welcome.
    • Under 18: Allowed on a case-by-case basis with a parent or guardian. Contact us before booking.
Meals and Accommodation
  • Onboard breakfast/brunch and dinners plus select local trattoria experiences.
  • Shared cabins on a spacious yacht/catamaran with bed linens and towels.
  • Full onboard comfort: Wi-Fi, AC, generator, watermaker, SUP, snorkel gear.

How Do I Get There?

Your adventure begins at Marina di Rodi Garganico, a picturesque marina in the heart of Gargano National Park.

Getting There:

  • By Train: Direct regional trains from Foggia, Bari, and Rome.
  • By Car: Via A14 and SS693 highways, with secure long-term parking at the marina.
  • By Shuttle (on request): Transfers from Bari or Pescara airports/train stations available at a special price.
  • By Air: Bari (BRI) and Pescara (PSR) airports, approximately 2 hours away by car or shuttle.

Optional pre-departure accommodation is available in or near Rodi Garganico for early arrivals.

Safety Measures and Insurance

Travel and medical insurance are mandatory, including coverage for freediving activities, trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and evacuation. We can help you find the right adventure travel policy to suit your needs.

Payment Policies, Cancellations and notes

To guarantee your spot on this unforgettable Maca adventure, payment in full is required at the time of booking.

Cancellation Policy:

  • More than 45 days before departure: Full refund.
  • 45–30 days before departure: 50% refund.
  • Less than 30 days before departure: No refund.

Important Notes:

  • All cancellation requests must be made in writing via email.
  • Payments for extras (e.g., equipment) must be settled in cash at boarding.
  • If Maca cancels: Full refund or transfer to another trip. Maca is not responsible for additional costs such as flights or accommodations.
  • Force Majeure: Refunds cannot be provided for unforeseen events (severe weather, political unrest, emergencies), but we’ll do our best to help you transfer your booking.

Ready to discover underneath the surface?

Pack smarter, travel lighter. Discover the must-have essentials for your journey and make every trip unforgettable!