IYC Inspiration: A Friends’ Adriatic Yacht Charter Aboard JOURNEY
When a group of friends requested an IYC yacht charter itinerary designed to make the most of a week away together, the result was a thoughtfully curated, multi-stop itinerary combining Montenegro and Croatia into one island-hopping adventure. Designed for space, speed and comfort, the luxury charter yacht selected for the trip was the Sanlorenzo 102’ (31m) luxury yacht JOURNEY - thanks to its asymmetric layout and social spaces, it is the perfect platform for groups of friends.
Taken last summer, this itinerary was equal parts relaxation, exploration, and celebration, with both countries providing the ultimate backdrop for their yachting experience. Thanks to JOURNEY’s crew, who are full of local insider knowledge and renowned for their intuitive service, this trip was an unforgettable escape. Here is the story of the group's week-long luxury yacht charter from Montenegro to Croatia:
Day 1: Porto Montenegro, Perast, to Kotor
First Impressions Of The Adriatic
The group’s journey began when they stepped aboard JOURNEY in Porto Montenegro. Warmly welcomed by the dynamic Captain Vido and his five crew, the friends settled in, made themselves at home, and sat back to enjoy the cruise into the impressive Bay of Kotor. The dramatic scenery, with steep mountains rising from the fjord-like, mirror-still waters, was the perfect welcome. Gathering on deck comfortably, they marveled at the stunning landscapes ahead of them.
Stopping at one of the most beautiful towns, Perast, they stepped ashore for a relaxed waterfront walk. The friends enjoyed an ice cream and plenty of photo opportunities. Later, they returned to JOURNEY for the remainder of the evening. The yacht anchored near Kotor Old Town, and after dinner, some of the group headed ashore to wander and enjoy the rich history and quaint atmosphere.
Day 2: Kotor, Žanjice, to Luštica Bay
Swimming, Sunshine, Αnd Slow Adriatic Living
After breakfast, the morning began with a swim stop at Žanjice Beach, where gin-clear waters invited the group to dive in and explore. The yacht’s beach club came to life with the Jet Skis, paddleboards, and snorkels ready for them to play.
By afternoon, the itinerary continued onwards to Luštica Bay, where the adventurous tone of the morning shifted to more leisurely. The friends spent time together on the flybridge, stretched out across the sunbeds, some relaxing in shaded areas, all while enjoying signature sundowner cocktails prepared by the crew. Dinner followed alfresco, and a long, relaxed meal was enjoyed together.
Day 3: Luštica Bay, Portonovi, to Dubrovnik
Crossing Into Croatia
After a final stop in the luxurious Portonovi, in Boka Bay, the crew handled the logistics of cruising to Croatia as the friends savored another leisurely breakfast - this morning, pancakes and fresh fruit smoothies from the chef were on the menu. Thanks to JOURNEY’s speedy nature, cruising onwards to Croatia didn’t take long, and before the group knew it, they approached Dubrovnik.
The city’s ancient walls came into view as the yacht anchored offshore. They headed ashore for a privately guided tour of the iconic UNESCO-listed city walls as the daily crowds filtered out and the heat of the day cooled. They explored the old town, before freshening up for a special meal back ashore.
Captain Vido secured a reservation for them at the Michelin-starred 360 restaurant, where they enjoyed a delicious tasting menu and panoramic views back over the harbor, Adriatic, and the old stone rooftops.
Day 4: Dubrovnik to Mljet
Nature, Space, And Relaxed Afternoons
After a few of them took one last early-morning walk in Dubrovnik, they left the city behind and headed towards Mljet National Park, one of Croatia’s greenest and most tranquil islands. Here, the pace slowed for the day, and the group spent time swimming saltwater lakes - thanks to the crew’s best swim spot recommendation - they cycled along shaded paths, and relaxed on JOURNEY’s decks, taking in the unspoiled surroundings.
In the evening, the chef and crew prepared a special Mediterranean-themed evening for the friends, with a relaxed setting and music playing, bringing them together for another shared meal before games and cocktails ended the evening.
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Day 5: Mljet to Korčula
Wandering And Watersports
JOURNEY’s next stop was Korcula, often called “Little Dubrovnik” for its old streets and medieval charm. From the tender, they walked ashore to explore. The friends wandered the narrow stone streets, found small courtyards, and browsed artisan shops and galleries. They then returned on board for a long, lingering lunch.
The afternoon was dedicated to enjoying the yacht’s many water toys, with the group moving between activity and relaxation. Some enjoyed the Seabobs for the first time, and others headed out with the deck crew for some wakeboarding, taking breaks and soaking up the Mediterranean rays back onboard. Anchored in another postcard-perfect spot was ideal for sundowners and relaxation before dinner under a blanket of stars.
Day 6: Korčula to Hvar
From Island Calm To Vibrant Energy
Cruising onwards to iconic Hvar, JOURNEY anchored in the Pakleni islands. They ate breakfast at anchor and enjoyed a morning swim before heading into town. Hvar’s lively beach clubs brought excitement to the penultimate adventure day.
After some sun-soaked relaxation at the famous Carpe Diem, they enjoyed a private cabana and a leisurely lunch, then stayed as the sun set and the beach club turned from day to night, welcoming in DJ sets and a partying vibe, with champagne flowing freely.
Day 7: Hvar, Vis to Split
The Final Few Stops
On the final day, JOURNEY anchored near Vis, which offered calm waters and hidden bays for one last swim in the group’s favorite spot, as picked by Captain Vido. The friends enjoyed a last relaxed morning as they reflected on their week before gathering on deck for the cruise onwards.
JOURNEY then made the last leg to Split, where the group said goodbye to the crew and caught a private transfer to the airport for their flights home.
If you and your friends are looking for the ultimate group vacation this summer, a luxury yacht charter in Montenegro and Croatia delivers onboard JOURNEY. Contact IYC’s expert consultants today to learn more about JOURNEY’s summer 2026 availability.