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The Argonaut Offshore Crossing
ExpeditionIntermediate & AdvancedCroatia & Greece - Europe
Jun 21-29
£710
3/4 spaces available
This is not a leisure cruise. The Argonaut Offshore Crossing is a serious, expert-level offshore passage from Pula, Croatia to Sounio, Greece — over 700 NM descending the Adriatic and crossing the Ionian Sea. Designed as a non-stop, immersive offshore masterclass, this passage will build your confidence and sea miles for the Aegean 600 Regatta or any serious ocean sailing ambition. You will retrace ancient maritime routes, culminating with an arrival beneath the cliffs of the Temple of Poseidon.
A serious non-stop Adriatic to Aegean passage that racks up over 700 nautical miles of real offshore experience. Long nights, full watch systems and a finish beneath the Temple of Poseidon make this one feel every bit as epic as it sounds.
4.5/5•17 ReviewsVeruda Sailing School is a high-performance offshore training center based in Pula, Croatia. We specialize in demanding mile-builder campaigns, offshore qualifiers, and endurance regattas (such as the Rolex Middle Sea Race, Aegean 600, and La 500). Our expeditions are designed specifically for sailors who want to step up their game, log serious Mediterranean miles, and experience the reality of offshore sailing in a highly structured environment. Aboard our fast, Cat 2-optimized offshore yacht, crew members are never just passengers. You will be fully integrated into the watch system and actively involved in all aspects of the passage, including advanced sail trim, weather routing, night watches, and heavy-weather boat handling. If you are looking to push your limits and learn true seamanship, welcome aboard.
Veruda Sailing School gets the balance right with proper seamanship, serious miles, and real adventure, not just ticking off certificates. Their offshore passages and hands-on training create sailors, not just students, which is exactly what SailTies is about.
Departure from Pula: We cast off from Marina Veruda — from the city that, according to legend, was founded by the Colchians who pursued the Argonauts here after they had stolen the Golden Fleece. They called it Polai, "city of refuge." It is fitting, then, that our own Argonaut journey begins in this same harbor, heading south toward Greece across 700 NM of open sea.
The Issa Departure (Pula → Vis): A 140 NM non-stop warm-up to the island of Vis — ancient Issa, the most important Greek colony in the Adriatic. We visit the Archaeological Museum to see the head of Artemis before sailing south.
The Otranto Crossing (Vis → Corfu): The "Big Jump." A 300 NM offshore leg crossing the Strait of Otranto. Following the favorable southerly currents, you will navigate the traffic separation schemes and changing sea states where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea.
The Engineering Marvel (Corfu → Corinth): Pilotage through the Gulf of Patras and passing under the Rion-Antirion bridge — one of the longest multi-span cable-stayed bridges in the world, connecting mainland Greece to the Peloponnese.
Arrival at the Temple: We finish at Olympic Marine in Sounio, beneath the Temple of Poseidon. Standing on the cape where ancient mariners gave thanks for safe passage, the crew transitions from offshore sailors to members of the Aegean 600 racing fleet.
Beginner
No sailing experience required. Perfect for newcomers.
Intermediate
Some sailing experience helpful. Comfortable on the water.
Advanced
Significant sailing experience required. Challenging conditions.
Active Crew Member
Full participation in all sailing activities.
Optional Involvement
Participate as much or as little as you like.
Passenger
Sit back and enjoy the ride.
Yes
Sharing the cooking & washing up
18
What You'll Gain: Serious Mile-Building: ~700 NM of logged offshore passage — ideal preparation for your practical logbook records. Night Sailing: Multiple nights at sea with full watchkeeping rotations. This is where real offshore competence is built. Passage Planning: Hands-on experience with weather routing, tidal gates (Strait of Messina), and long-range passage planning. Sail Handling & Trim: Extended offshore conditions mean constant sail management — reefing, unreefing, headsail changes, spinnaker work when conditions allow. Mileage & Passage Confirmation: Official documentation of your passage for license applications and logbook records.
Your specific vessel is assigned based on your selected dates. All vessels meet our high standards for comfort and safety.
Elan - 333
LOA: 33ft (9.99m)
No optional extras
18-24°C
Pleasant temperatures, occasional rain. Fewer crowds.
25-30°C
Warm and sunny with gentle Maestral winds. Peak sailing season.
18-24°C
Mild weather, warm seas, fewer crowds.
18-24°C
Pleasant temperatures, occasional rain. Fewer crowds.
25-30°C
Warm and sunny with gentle Maestral winds. Peak sailing season.
18-24°C
Mild weather, warm seas, fewer crowds.
Tried and tested sailing experiences, from our pick of the world's best operators
All our trips are led by qualified skippers and sailing instructors
We only work with the most reputable sailing operators and yacht providers
Perfect for solo sailors looking to join a crew or groups wanting to charter
Our team is on-hand 24/7 to help you before, during and after your adventure
From £710 GBP per person
Prices shown in USD are approximate conversions, using today's conversion rate. This trip is priced by the operator in GBP and payment will be taken in GBP.