The Afternoon Maestral: Comfort vs. Getting Wet
-The Adriatic Sea can be deceptive. Even when a summer morning starts perfectly calm, the Maestral (a typical daily wind) often picks up in the afternoon, creating choppy waves for the return journey.
-While rigid inflatable boats (RIBs/rubber boats) are known for their ability to handle waves, they have one major drawback: they are open vessels. When the wind picks up and the sea gets choppy, passengers on a rubber boat are almost guaranteed to get sprayed by seawater and wind-chilled.
-This is where a hard-top aluminum boat like the Colnago 33 makes all the difference:
-Stay Dry and Protected: Our solid high-quality aluminum hull combined with a hard-top cabin acts as a shield. Even when the sea is rough, you and your guests stay completely dry and protected from the wind and spray.
-Luxury vs. Exposure: Instead of wearing a windbreaker and getting salt in your hair, you can relax in a protected, shaded area, making the ride back to Split just as enjoyable as the morning cruise.
Space and Freedom: Why Size Matters for Your Comfort
When booking a private tour, many people overlook the importance of deck space. On a smaller vessel, you often feel "trapped" in your seat. However, a larger, professionally designed boat like the Colnago 33 (10 meters/33 feet) transforms your trip from a simple transfer into a luxury cruising experience.
-Move Freely, Relax Fully: A larger deck allows your group to move around comfortably while cruising. Whether you want to sit with the captain, enjoy a drink in the shaded lounge, or head to the bow for the best views, you have the freedom to change your environment.
-The Ultimate Sun Deck: For those who want to work on their tan, a spacious bow sun deck is essential. Our boat offers a wide, cushioned sunbathing area where multiple guests can relax together without feeling cramped.
-The Refrigerator: Nothing beats a cold drink on a hot summer day. Unlike smaller boats that rely on portable ice boxes that quickly melt, a larger boat like ours is equipped with a professional refrigerator. This means your water, local wines, and snacks stay perfectly chilled from the moment you depart until the sun sets. You have the freedom to bring your own favorite drinks and know they will stay refreshing all day long.
-A Massive Swim Platform: The highlight of any boat trip is jumping into the turquoise lagoons. Smaller boats often don't have a proper swimming platform. Our Colnago features a large, wide swimming platform at the stern. It acts as your private "beach" at sea—perfect for easy access to the water, putting on your snorkeling gear, or simply sitting with your feet in the sea while enjoying a cold beverage from the fridge.
Safety and Stability: Why a Larger Boat is a Safer Choice
When it comes to the open sea, size is not just about luxury—it is a fundamental safety feature. While smaller boats can feel exciting, they are much more susceptible to the elements. Choosing a larger, sturdier vessel like our Colnago 33 provides a level of security that smaller speedboats simply cannot match.
-Crucial for Open Sea Crossings (Vis & Blue Cave): Stability is especially important for long-distance tours, such as the excursion to Vis Island and the Blue Cave. To reach these destinations, you must cross wide stretches of open sea where the water is much deeper and the waves can be unpredictable. On a smaller boat, these 90-minute crossings can become tiring and stressful if the sea gets choppy. On a larger, 10-meter vessel, you glide over the swells with confidence and ease.
Conclusion: Matching the Boat to Your Trip
When selecting your perfect Adriatic adventure, the duration and destination of your trip should guide your choice of vessel.
-For short, 1 or 2-hour trips close to Split with small groups, a smaller, more affordable boat is a suitable and efficient solution.
-However, for half-day or full-day excursions—especially for the crossing to Vis Island and the Blue Cave—a larger, robust boat is the only safe and comfortable option.
Prioritize comfort, safety, and stability for longer journeys.