Croatia and the Dalmatian Islands with Laura King and Janie Florea
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creativity and cruising
THE CROATIAN COASTLINE & Dalmatian Islands
Pack your sense of wonder, your nautical stripes and your favorite sketchbook as we ditch the ordinary and sail into the extraordinary.
Climb aboard the Art of Life Creativity Retreat with Laura King and Janie Florea on the Casablanca, a 174-foot luxury motor cruiser. Enter your email address and we'll send you the full details!
"Thank you for one of the most magical weeks of my LIFE! Truly. I have had more inspiration and moments of joy than I have had in as long as I can remember. This is what my soul was screaming for. Here is to the next chapter of Art of Life retreats. I will be there." - Hadley
it's time to
RETREAT YOURSELF
For 7-nights and 8 days aboard our floating villa (the luxury motor yacht, Casablanca), we'll explore Croatia’s jaw-dropping Dalmatian coastline, sip incredible wines, explore quaint Croatian towns, savor seafood, play in the water and dive into creativity, connection, and the Mediterranean way of life.
We’ll relax, sip, and sail our way through 1400 years of history.
don't miss the boat
ON THIS ADRIATIC ARTISTIC ADVENTURE
This is your chance to hit pause on the busy-ness of daily life and stow away for a week with us for a luxurious, creative escape along Croatia’s gorgeous coastline. Seriously, what could be better?
Aboard our 174-foot luxury cruiser, Casablanca, you’ll find the perfect mix of indulgence, inspiration, and laughter, with a soundtrack of salty sea breezes, belly laughs and maybe a little yacht rock!
Here's what's on deck:
THE HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR 8 DAY ITINERARY
With over 1,000 islands and the ever-playful Adriatic as our co-pilot, this route is always subject to a little spontaneity. But one thing stays constant: our private yacht gives you front-row access to hidden bays, storybook harbors, and seaside villages that most land-based Croatia travelers never come close to experiencing.
Over eight unforgettable days, you’ll wander UNESCO-listed stone streets, swim in turquoise coves, sip island wines where they’re grown, and soak up that delicious Croatian concept of fjaka—the art of guilt-free doing nothing.
You’ll dine at cozy konobas and seaside grills, while discovering why Pelješac reds and Dalmatian whites have a cult following. You'll be spoiled rotten by our onboard chef’s coastal creations, too. This is a trip for your senses, your camera roll, and your future self who will be very happy you said yes.
Here’s what your Croatian retreat looks like, day by day (subject to change)…
Trogir
UNESCO GEM & YACHT-HOPPING HQ
We begin (and end) in Trogir, a tiny island town near the peninsula of Split. It's wrapped in medieval walls, with sunlit alleys, Gothic and Renaissance palaces, and a palm-lined promenade that feels like a movie set.
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason—2,300 years of history and not a dull corner in sight.
You’ll board our private yacht, Casablanca, settle into your cabin, clink a welcome toast on deck, and watch Trogir’s golden glow fade into the distance as we set out toward our first stop on the itinerary.
Milna
(Brač)
Vis
THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND
Next up: Vis -- more remote, more rugged, and once so strategic it was closed to foreign visitors until 1991, so it still feels like a beautiful best kept secret - unspoiled by throngs of visitors.
Here, you can swim in hidden bays like Stiniva, with its famous dramatic cliffs and translucent water. Wander Vis or Komiža town for relaxation and enjoy that unhurried island rhythm. It’s cinematic and soulful.
Korcula
BIRTHPLACE OF MARCO POLO
Korčula, often called “Little Dubrovnik,” is a stunning Croatian island rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. In Korčula, you can go on the optional add on off-road buggies tour and wine tasting. Trust us, it's one of the most fun ways to explore the island and taste its treasured wines.
The medieval Old Town, with narrow stone streets and Venetian architecture, is said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, the island offers beautiful beaches, vineyards producing Grk and Pošip wines, and lively folklore traditions like the Moreška sword dance. Korčula’s blend of history, nature, and charm makes it truly special. It's teeming with absolutely decadent restaurants including a few favorites with Michelin stars. And you'll be soaking it all in!
Hvar
SUNNIEST SPOT IN ALL OF EUROPE!
Hvar, Croatia’s sunniest island, is famous for its vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches, and lavender fields. The medieval Hvar Town boasts Venetian architecture, a lively marina, and the historic Fortica Fortress with breathtaking views. Beyond the glamour, the island offers serene coves, vineyards producing Plavac Mali wine, and charming villages like Stari Grad. A blend of luxury, history, and natural beauty makes Hvar one of Croatia’s most beloved destinations. You can even feast on a traditional Peka dinner, dance under the stars or live your best glamorous life at the infamous Carpe Diem!
Trstenik
Welcome to Trstenik, population: calm. Here’s where we practice fjaka—Croatia’s national sport of gloriously unproductive relaxation. It’s not laziness; it’s enlightenment with a spritz and sunglasses.
Between naps, we’ll feast on the freshest fish imaginable, it was swimming just hours before and (optional add on) swirl a glass or two at Grgić Winery, where the Napa legend Mike Grgić brought his famed winemaking chops back home to the Adriatic. These wines rarely leave Croatia… which is understandable, because you won't want to leave either!
Ston
FOODIE & OYSTER PARADISE
Ston, a small coastal town on the Pelješac Peninsula, is famous for its medieval stone walls, some of the longest in Europe. It's the Croatian version of the Great Wall of China - and apparently can be seen from space (we have to trust them on that one!). We'll experience the incredible oyster farm (an experience you won't want to miss), wine and salt pans. Ston is a foodie’s paradise offering some of Croatia’s best seafood and supplying all of its top restaurants with its famed oysters.
Trogir, Split
EPIC GOODBYES
We sail back into Trogir for our final evening aboard—sunset on the Casablanca, our goodbye dinner and party, one last round of toasts to new friendships, ridiculous outtakes in your camera roll, the most epic scenery and a version of you that feels very much alive (and definitely doesn't want to board the plane home!).
After breakfast on board, you’ll disembark ready for your next adventure—or you'll head home with salty hair, a very smug smile, and a permanently raised standard for what “vacation” means to you.
This isn’t just a trip. It’s Croatia the way most people never see it—with a floating boutique hotel, a small circle of incredible humans, and permission to fully relax and enjoy all of it (no need to plan a thing!).
Vitamin Sea
ALSO ENJOY MASSAGES, MINDSET RESETS, CREATIVITY WORKSHOPS & WATERSPORTS
The boat is its own island of relaxation, exploration and inspiration! Soak up some Vitamin Sea in the sunshine, soothe yourself in the hot tub, enjoy an indulgent massage, take a watercolor or mindset workshop, dive into watersports: paddleboarding, snorkeling, swimming or just float in absolute bliss.
- Jet Ski: Feel the thrill as you zip across the sparkling Adriatic.
- Paddleboards: Perfect for a serene morning glide or a core workout with a view.
- Kayaks: Explore hidden coves and quiet inlets at your own pace.
- Water Skis: Channel your inner 80s action hero and skim the waves.
- Ringo Ride: Grab a retreat friend and hold on tight for a thrill ride that will leave you laughing (and maybe a little soaked).
Massage
HOT TUB, PLUNGE
Fully unwind with all kinds of beautiful wellness activities on board. Hot tub, salt water plunge, and an on board massage therapist (optional add on) to undo any lingering stress from back home. Stretch in the morning seabreeze, stay under the covers or savor your cappucino in the open air. Pick your pleasure! This is how you RETREAT yourself.
signature creativity sessions
SKETCHBOOK | PHOTOGRAPHY | JOURNALING
All Art of Life Creativity retreats include our signature workshops where you'll learn the art of bringing little moments to life through travel sketchbook watercolors and creative mindset tools. These workshops are fun, casual and always inspiring for ALL levels. They are also OPTIONAL.
painting
& MINDSET COACHING
You'll travel through the paintbox as Croatia's craggy coastline and crystal clear water is just begging to be matched by your watercolor palette.
With the easy painting lessons from Janie, you'll let the soul of this magical place spill out onto the page, regardless of whether or not you have ever painted before. No experience needed. This is for everyone! And it's completely optional. (Yes, we might even have some Yacht Rock coloring books for creative silliness if you feel so inclined).
And Laura will give you mindset tools and relaxing meditations from her 25-year remarkable sports psychology and hypnosis practice. If you want to lose a bad habit like a bad habit, or get a mindset to level up your career, your relationships, your golf swing, your pickleball dink or your equestrian hunter jumping dreams ... Laura has got you with her brilliant mindset tools! This is also optional (but you won't want to miss out).
no judgment zone
CREATIVITY THAT IS ALL PLAY. ZERO PRESSURE.
We’re not here to make you feel like you’re back in art class, fumbling with charcoal or in a dreary conference room working on your self. This is about letting loose and rediscovering your spark—whether it’s sketching, journaling, adventuring or snapping that perfect Instagram shot (or not, no pressure).
- Watercolors on deck as the sun sets over the sea. Painting and Prosecco, anyone?
- Creative smart phone photography online app and easy photo tutorials you can do before the trip to help you love your travel photos.
- Journaling to reconnect with yourself and your own ideas. No noise of daily life to distract you.
This is creativity on your terms, with zero judgment and zero inbox dings - permission to unplug!
Casablanca
ALL ABOARD
CASABLANCA: 174 FOOT LUXURY MOTOR YACHT
Step aboard Casablanca. A modern classic designed for the ultimate Adriatic experience, Casablanca is a 174-foot luxury motor cruiser that blends traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge comfort. This powerful and smooth-cruising yacht offers a stable and spacious retreat with tons of deck space as you explore Croatia’s hidden coves and island gems.
With 18 beautifully appointed cabins, Casablanca can accommodate our retreat guests in style. Choose from spacious double cabins, single cabin options, and twin cabins, plus the VIP cabin—each with its own ensuite bathroom, plush bedding, a/c and WIFI. It's the ultimate comfort and connectivity (though you can tell everyone at home you can't be reached!).
Onboard, you’ll find a full dining room and professional chef’s kitchen, where our renowned Croatian chef will prepare our gourmet meals tailored to our tastes. A dedicated longtime crew of 10 will provide top-tier service, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable voyage.
Casablanca also boasts a sundeck Jacuzzi, a fully equipped gym, a wellness area with saltwater plunge, sauna, massage therapist on board, an outdoor cinema, and an array of watersports, from jet skis to paddleboards.
For adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Casablanca is our private island and luxury villa at sea. Welcome aboard! 🚢✨
"Wow. You all did an amazing job making a very creative and festive retreat. We all had a wonderful time! We ate, laughed, danced, sang, wrote, drew, painted, photographed, cooked, shared and just plain LIVED. Thank you for putting together this retreat. It was such a gift!" -Pam, Art of Life retreat guest
"The location, the people, the hosts and the food were all sensational.
You are both truly unique and talented leaders. It is a gift for anyone who has the opportunity to be in your presences at one of your retreats.
Thank you for giving us time and space to expore, paint, take photowalks, drink wine and eat way too much food. I can't wait to do it, again, on another one of your retreats." -Katy M.
Your North Star
For eons sailors have used the stars above to find their way. This retreat is just that. It’s more than just navigating the coastline—it’s about you finding your own personal North star especially if that internal star feels a little dim, lately.
Whether you’re reconnecting with your creativity, rediscovering joy, or simply following a tug toward adventure (or Jason Mamoa’s hangouts!), this voyage promises to align you with what matters most. YOU!
find your fjaka
THE DALMATIAN SECRET TO BLISS
In Croatia, there’s a word for that dreamy, sun-soaked state of pure ease: fjaka. It’s a full-body sigh, a soul-deep exhale, the ultimate permission to just be.
Think of it as the Croatian cousin to il dolce far niente—the sweetness of doing nothing—but with a salty sea breeze and zero guilt. Some call it the Mediterranean version of mindfulness. We call it bliss.
Mornings with yoga on a sun-dappled deck. Afternoons lounging by the sea. Evenings of laughter under the stars. By the end of the week, you won’t just know fjaka—you’ll be fjaka. You won't fjaking believe you've been missing out on this your whole life!
"5 stars! Would highly recommend!
I have had so much fun, laughed so hard, and I learned so much about the world and myself. I made new friends, learned how to tap back into my creative self that's been long dormant and was welcomed with such warmth.
I can now paint in gouache, curse in Italian and know how to look for 3 good things. And I can't wait for your next retreat." - Sue
creativity, connection, camaraderie
AND CROATIA!
Not only will you be immersed in all things creativity, cuisine, culture, camaraderie, and connection, but there will be time for just relaxing.
Our retreats aren’t about how artistic or creative you are (not even a little), how many activities we can pack into a week (spoiler: a lot, but in a good way), or how mind-blowingly good the food is (it is delicious, bring your stretchy pants), this retreat is about being fully awake and alive to all the best parts of life!
Come join us in Croatia—you won’t believe what you’ve been missing.
Book now before we sell out this extraordinary 7-night/8-day Croatia retreat.
Laura & Janie
"This week has been above & beyond. Such a beautiful, picturesque setting and experiences I will remember forever. And to have you both guide us and impart wonderful words and share your knowledge has all been icing on top." - Amie