From the plains of Nebraska to the turquoise waters of the Adriatic, one Lincoln family swapped cornfields for catamarans — and found the trip of a lifetime.
“We’re Not Sailors. We’re Just Curious.”
When Matt and Laura Johnson booked a catamaran charter in Croatia last summer, it wasn’t something they had planned for years. It was a spontaneous decision made after a long winter, a travel documentary, and a yearning for something… different.
“We’d never been to Europe, never set foot on a yacht,” said Matt, a small business owner from Lincoln. “But after three years of local road trips, we were ready for an experience. Something the kids would remember.”
Their search for something off the beaten path led them to Split, Croatia — and a 7-day skippered catamaran charter with Silver Sail, a local company specializing in family-friendly yacht holidays.
Life on the Water: “It Was Simpler Than We Expected”
The idea of sailing can seem intimidating to those from landlocked states. But the Johnsons discovered that with a professional skipper onboard, the trip was easier — and more relaxing — than any hotel-based vacation they’d ever taken.
“We didn’t have to know anything about sailing,” said Laura. “Our skipper, Luka, was incredible. He handled everything and still felt like part of the family.”
The 45-foot catamaran became their floating home, complete with four cabins, a sun-drenched lounge area, and a small kitchen. Each day brought new coves, medieval towns, and fresh seafood.
Their route included Brač, Hvar, Vis, and the hidden Pakleni Islands. The kids snorkeled off the back of the boat, hunted for sea urchins, and even helped the skipper tie ropes at each marina.
No Crowds, No Lines — Just Time Together
“It was the opposite of a cruise,” Matt said. “No scheduled meals, no lines. It was like choosing our own adventure each day — except we had someone guiding us who actually knew the sea.”
The family stopped in tiny fishing villages and larger towns with centuries of history. They rented bikes on Šolta, tried octopus salad in Hvar, and swam in crystal-clear bays they had entirely to themselves.
And the WiFi? “Only when we wanted it,” Laura laughed. “It was refreshing to unplug.”
Sailing Croatia: A Secret Worth Sharing
The trip left such an impression that the Johnsons have already started planning a return visit — possibly with friends. They say they never expected such a deep connection to a country they’d barely considered before.
“It’s one of Europe’s best-kept secrets,” Matt said. “And we were surprised by how affordable it was. We had private lodging, transport, and a local guide all in one.”
Want to Set Sail Like the Johnsons?
You don’t need sailing experience to enjoy a catamaran holiday in Croatia. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a group of friends, or a multi-generational family, a skippered charter offers flexibility, comfort, and memories that last a lifetime.
➤ Explore skippered catamaran options from Split,Croatia and discover why more Midwesterners are trading their summer road trips for something a little more adventurous.
