Explore

Start here, browse the gallery, scroll and explore the site, and get the essentials in the FAQ.

What's in here?

Here you’ll find a mix of FAQs, photo galleries, media features, and useful tools. It’s a space to wander, learn, and explore beyond the deck – always growing as the journey unfolds.

How it works

Here’s how Sailing to Dharma comes to life — from sea adventures to creative work and ways we can collaborate.

Services & Collaboration

See what else I do and how you can work with me.

Sailing & Land Exploration

Sailing can take many forms – in each one, I aim to create an unforgettable experience.

Saltyweek

Organized sailing weeks where a group of people come together to explore the sea, islands, and hidden spots. Perfect for anyone who wants adventure and good company.

Private Trips

Hire me as a skipper for your holiday – from short getaways to multi-week journeys. I take care of safe navigation, you focus on enjoying the trip.

Yacht Delivery

If you need your yacht delivered from one location to another, I can handle it professionally and reliably.

Guided Land Tours

I also lead land-based tours in Slovenia for small groups. Focused on local experiences, nature, and authenticity.

45 degrees sailing

Blogging

I write about sailing, travel, and the journey of self-discovery. I write blogs in two main areas:

Sailing & Skipper’s Life

Stories from the sea, practical tips, and real experiences from life on board. A mix of destinations, challenges, and the everyday reality of being a skipper.

Personal Growth

Reflections and lessons that sailing and travel bring into everyday life. Insights on freedom, resilience, and finding balance.

Writing for Others

I also write guest articles and blog posts for websites, brands, and destinations. Content can be tailored for storytelling or SEO, helping you connect with readers while improving visibility online.

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Content & Media

Photo, video, storytelling for brands, crews, and destinations. Authentic, minimalist, sea-first.

Photography & Video

Authentic visual content for individuals, groups, and businesses – especially in sailing and tourism.

Websites & Branding

I create simple, effective websites and branding for small businesses and creators.

Social Media

Content planning and management for social platforms to build trust and community.

Check out our Galleries

Here’s how Sailing to Dharma comes to life — from sea adventures to creative work and ways we can collaborate.

FAQ

Some of the most common questions and answers — to keep things clear and simple.

Where do trips happen?

Mostly the Mediterranean (Croatia, Greece, Italy, Montenegro), with plans to expand when the time is right.

Saltyweek is the operational part of my work — organized sailing weeks where you can join a crew and explore the Mediterranean. It’s adventure, connection, and freedom on the water.

Sailing to Dharma is the story and creative project. Saltyweek is the operational part — actual sailing weeks you can join.

Yes. Private trips and yacht deliveries are available depending on schedule and season. Check Booking plan or visit saltyweek.

Yes — together with my team at BoPlo Media we create websites, branding, videos, and photography for creators, adventurers, and small businesses.

The easiest way is to subscribe to the newsletter. You’ll get blog updates, trip openings, and useful tools directly to your inbox.

Don’t worry, It’s free.

Yes — your support helps keep this journey alive. You can donate directly or become a member on Patreon. Members get exclusive updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Yes — at the moment, there are occasional opportunities to join either by campervan or by sailboat as a companion.
This option is currently open to everyone who aligns with the project’s spirit and values.

In the future, this opportunity will be available exclusively to Patreon members, as part of a more personal and sustainable community model.

Not at all. Whether it’s Saltyweek or Sailing to Dharma, curiosity and respect for the sea are enough — everything else you learn along the way.

Each trip includes everything needed for a complete and comfortable sailing experience — so you can simply arrive, relax, and enjoy the sea.

Below is a breakdown of what’s covered and what’s not, to help you plan ahead clearly.

You can find a full overview in our Terms & Conditions.

Included

Sailboat rental

the full charter of a modern, fully equipped sailboat.

Certified skipper

navigation, safety, and route planning are all taken care of.

Port and mooring fees

standard marina and anchorage costs.

Safety gear

life jackets, first aid kit, and all required safety equipment.

Trip organization

a well-planned route that balances adventure and rest.

Optional photos & videos

shared moments, if you wish to be part of the story.

Not Included

Food and drinks

a shared crew fund or individual choice during stops.

Transport to/from marina

travel to the departure point is self-arranged.

Personal expenses

restaurants, souvenirs, or private activities.

Insurance

we recommend having your own travel coverage.

Crew meals

Providing meals for the skipper (and crew, if applicable) is required.

Tips and gratuities

Not mandatory, but always appreciated as a nice way to show your satisfaction.

Yes — guests are responsible for providing meals and drinks for the skipper (and any additional crew) during the trip, unless onboard catering is included.
It’s a standard sailing practice that keeps the skipper fully available for navigation and safety.

You can find a full overview in our Terms & Conditions.

Yes — you can absolutely bring your own friends or crew.
If you’d like to charter a full sailboat for your group, we can tailor the route, stops, and onboard experience to match your vibe — from peaceful exploration to more social sailing.
Just mention this when you contact us, and we’ll help design the week that fits your crew perfectly.

For details about private group bookings, read this. 

Packing for a sailing trip is all about keeping it simple and practical — space onboard is limited, and comfort is key.
Soft bags are always better than hard suitcases, and lightweight, quick-dry clothes will make life at sea much easier.

Yes, there’s usually Wi-Fi available in marinas and close to shore, but once we sail out, connection can be limited or disappear completely.
Think of it as a perfect chance to slow down, unplug, and reconnect with what really matters — the wind, the sea, and real conversations.

Booking dates are confirmed once your deposit is received.
A deposit secures your spot and covers initial costs for the sailboat and crew.
The remaining balance is due before departure (usually 30 days prior).

If you need to cancel:

  • Cancellations made more than 60 days before departure can be refunded (minus the deposit).
  • Cancellations within 60 days are non-refundable, but you may transfer your spot to another person.

All details are outlined in our official Terms & Conditions, which apply to every booking.

Booking is easy — To book a trip, simply complete the online booking form and follow the payment instructions in the confirmation email.
Once your deposit is received, your spot is confirmed and you’ll get a detailed trip guide with everything you need to prepare.
You can read more about payments and cancellations in our Terms & Conditions.

Tools

Practical resources to make things smoother — on the water and online.

Packing Checklist

What to bring for a week at sea.

Before you set sail, make sure you’re prepared for life on the water.
Here’s a simple checklist to help you pack light, practical, and smart — so you can focus on what really matters: adventure and freedom.

Documents & essentials

  • Passport or ID
  • Travel insurance
  • Cash & cards / phone + charger
  • Copies of important documents
  • Sailing license (if required)

Clothing

  • Light T-shirts & shorts
  • Swimwear (2–3)
  • Long-sleeve for evenings, windbreaker
  • Hat / cap
  • Deck shoes / non-slip sandals
  • Sunglasses with strap

Toiletries & medication

  • Biodegradable soap & shampoo
  • Sunscreen (reef-safe, SPF 30+)
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Lip balm
  • Personal medication
  • Wet wipes / tissues

Extras & useful items

  • Small towel (quick-dry)
  • Power bank
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Waterproof bag / phone case
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Earplugs / sleep mask
  • Snorkeling gear (optional)

Eco Sailing Tips

  • Use reef-safe sunscreens and soaps
  • Avoid plastic bottles – bring a reusable one
  • Minimize waste: buy bulk food, reusable bags
  • Use biodegradable cleaning products
  • Share resources onboard (one shampoo, one detergent)
PDF preview packing list
Packing Checklist
Cold Weather Checklist
PDF preview First Aid
First Aid & Personal Care

The ocean will thank you for every small sustainable choice you make!

Pre-Trip Documents

Everything you need before setting sail.

Before you set sail, a bit of preparation will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Here’s what to know before you arrive — from timing and meeting points to life on board. Download the documents below and you’ll have everything ready for departure.

But first, read this

Before setting sail, please read the following guides to make your check-in and first day smooth and stress-free.
These documents include all essential information about your arrival, safety briefing, and life on board.

To ensure a timely check-in, every crew member must complete the Crew List Form before the start of the trip.

Read, prepare, and get ready to sail — everything starts here.

Roles on board

  • Everyone is part of the crew — we sail, cook, and share the experience together
  • Respect, teamwork, and communication make all the difference
  • A cooperative crew makes every trip more enjoyable

Safety first

  • Always listen to the skipper during maneuvers
  • No running on deck; hold onto something when moving
  • Lifejackets are mandatory in rough weather
  • No smoking below deck
  • Don’t fall into the water

Shared duties

  • Meals and cleaning are shared — we’re a small team, not passengers
  • Keep your cabin tidy and ventilated
  • Shoes are usually not worn on deck — barefoot or non-slip sandals
  • Dispose of waste only in port bins — never overboard

Respect the sea & others

  • Use water mindfully
  • Turn off lights and chargers when not in use
  • Keep noise low at night — marinas are small communities

Extra Tips

  • If you’re traveling from far away, plan to arrive the night before — traffic and flights can be unpredictable
  • If you’re new to sailing, keep an open heart — you’ll adapt quickly
  • Bring curiosity instead of expectations, and let the wind do the rest
  • The best crews aren’t those with the most experience,
    but those who share kindness, humor, and patience
Pre-trip Guide
Crew Safety Briefing
crew list preview
Crew & Passenger Form

The ocean will thank you for every small sustainable choice you make!

Useful Apps

Your digital first mate — everything you need on sea and shore.

Before setting sail, make sure you’ve got the right tools at your fingertips.
From wind forecasts to anchor alarms, these apps make sailing smoother, safer, and more fun — even offline.

Apps & subscriptions

Most great sailing apps require a subscription, but even free versions can be surprisingly useful.

Even without premium features, you can still plan routes, check wind forecasts, and track your position with surprising accuracy.
A bit of smart app setup before departure can save you time, money — and stress — once you’re at sea.

Weather & Wind

Stay one step ahead of the sea.

  • Windy – precise wind maps, waves, and pressure systems.

  • PredictWind – offshore forecasts and route planning.

  • MeteoBlue – simple overview with rain and cloud layers.

Navigation & Safety

Plan routes, avoid shallows, and stay safe at anchor.

  • Navionics Boating – Detailed charts, sonar depth, and real-time AIS.

  • Savvy Navvy – “Google Maps for sailors” with auto-routing and tides.

  • Anchor Pro – Reliable anchor drag alarm that works offline.

Crew Tools & Communication

Stay connected and coordinated across the boat.

  • WhatsApp / Telegram – Crew chat and location sharing in ports.

  • Marine Traffic – Track nearby vessels live through AIS.

  • Garmin inReach – Satellite communication when out of mobile range.

Sailing with the right winds means smoother seas and far less fuel or stress.

 

Leisure & Extras

Because sailing isn’t only about sailing.

  • Spotify – Soundtrack for sunsets, storms, and night sails.

  • Google Translate – Instant help at foreign marinas or taverns.

  • TripAdvisor / Maps.me – Find hidden gems and bars ashore.

Extra Tips

  • Download critical apps offline before departure.
  • Keep a backup navigation app on a second device.
  • Use shared cloud folders for crew files and photos.
  • Bring a power bank or 12V charger — the sea drains batteries fast.

Technology should make sailing simpler — not replace the feeling of freedom it gives.

Weather & Wind apps
Navigation & safaty apps
Crew Tools & Communication Guide preview
Crew Tools & Communication Guide

The ocean will thank you for every small sustainable choice you make!

Sea & Weather

How to read and respect the sea.

Before setting sail, take a moment to understand the rhythm of the sea.
Winds, waves, and seasons shape every journey — knowing how to read them is what separates a safe adventure from a risky one.

Essential Charts & Guides

Here you’ll find essential guides and charts that help you:
– recognize wind strength and sea states,
– plan your passages according to seasonal weather patterns,
– and make wise decisions when conditions change.

Respect the sea, learn its moods — and it will reward you with unforgettable sailing.

Beaufort Wind Scale

The Beaufort Scale is a universal system for estimating wind strength at sea, based on visible conditions on water and sails.
It ranges from 0 (calm) to 12 (hurricane), where:

  • Force 3 (~12–19 km/h) brings small wavelets — ideal for relaxed cruising,

  • Force 6 (~39–49 km/h) means strong breeze and rougher sea,

  • Force 8 and above marks gale conditions, where sailing becomes dangerous.

Learning to see the wind through waves, whitecaps, and sail pressure is the skipper’s most valuable skill.

Wave Height & Length

Waves form from wind strength and duration — the longer and stronger the wind blows, the larger and longer the waves.
The ratio between wave height and wavelength determines how steep or gentle the sea feels:

  • Long, rolling swells are smooth and predictable,

  • Short, steep waves are harsh and can cause pounding or seasickness.

Knowing this ratio helps you judge comfort and safety when planning passages or anchoring.

Ocean Passage Seasons

Every ocean has its rhythm. Understanding seasonal wind systems like trade winds and monsoons helps you plan crossings safely.

  • The Atlantic is best crossed westward (Europe → Caribbean) between November and January,

  • The Pacific typically between April and June,

  • The Indian Ocean mainly June to October, depending on monsoon shifts.

Sailing with the right winds means smoother seas and far less fuel or stress.

 

Safety & Decision Points

Weather changes fast — what matters most is knowing when to act.
This guide helps you recognize critical thresholds:

  • When to reef sails or change course,

  • When steep waves exceed safe comfort limits,

  • How to combine multiple forecasts for a realistic picture.

Respecting these cues keeps your crew safe and your trip enjoyable.

Extra Tips

  • Trust your senses, not just the forecast. Learn to feel the wind shifts, pressure drops, and changes in light — they often warn you before the instruments do.
  • Watch the wave direction. Waves coming from a different direction than the wind usually mean a weather front or swell from afar — adjust your course early.
  • Morning and evening are key. Wind tends to rise after sunrise and calm before sunset — ideal times for departures and anchoring.
  • Check at least two forecast sources. Compare data from Windy, PredictWind, and local meteo stations; consistency means reliability.
  • If in doubt, don’t go out. Even experienced sailors turn back sometimes. The sea will always be there tomorrow.

Red sky at night, sailor’s delight.
Red sky in the morning, sailor’s warning.

Beaufort Wind Scale
Beaufort Wind Scale
Wave Height & Length
Ocean Passage Season

The ocean will thank you for every small sustainable choice you make!

Fun & Drinks

Because great sailing deserves great moments.

These small pleasures bring people together: good drinks, easy snacks, and the right music.

Here you’ll find simple recipes, refreshing ideas, and a few classics that always fit the sailor’s spirit.

Food on Board

Cooking at sea is all about simplicity, balance, and smart planning.

  • Plan meals by day – shorter trips can share cooking duties; for longer routes, prepare meals in advance.
  • Think “one-pan” dishes – pasta, rice, and stir-fry meals are perfect.
  • Avoid greasy food – it’s hard on the stomach in rough seas.
  • Fresh fruit, veggies, and nuts keep energy up and last well.
  • Breakfast tip: overnight oats or granola with yogurt — quick, no mess.

Cocktails & Mixes

For those warm evenings when the sea is calm and the stories start flowing.

  • Salty Breeze – rum, lime, tonic, and a pinch of sea salt. Simple, refreshing, and born for sunsets.
  • Dark & Stormy – dark rum, ginger beer, and a squeeze of lime — a true sailor’s drink.
  • Gin & Wave – gin, cucumber, lemon, and soda — clean and crisp, just like a morning sail.

Local Drinks to Try

Every port has its spirit — literally.

  • Ouzo (Greece) – smooth and anise-flavored, perfect with ice and a bit of sea breeze.

  • Travarica (Croatia) – local herb brandy that sailors swear keeps colds away.

  • Prosecco (Italy) – light and celebratory; ideal for toasting a successful crossing.

  • Ti’ Punch (Caribbean) – rum, cane syrup, and lime — small but strong.

Music & Vibes

Set the mood — from calm waves to party decks.

  • Spotify Playlist: Sailing to Dharma Mix

  • Backup: Download music offline before you leave port — Wi-Fi fades fast.

  • Mood idea: morning = chill acoustic, evening = beach vibes, night = soft house or 80s classics.

Games & Activities

Keep the crew spirit alive when the sails are down.

  • Dinghy Race – short challenge in the bay; fastest round wins the first drink.

  • Card Night – classics like UNO, Poker, or “Kings” (crew edition drinking game).

  • Photo Challenge – best sunset, worst hair day, funniest face.

  • Activity – make sure your team know what are you talkong about.

Sailing with the right winds means smoother seas and far less fuel or stress.

Extra Tips

  • Always bring reusable cups and metal straws — no glass on deck.
  • Keep a crew bar fund for shared drinks and snacks.
  • Stock up on ice and lemons — they fix almost everything.
  • Remember: moderation keeps everyone safe and happy.

Good food fills the body — good company fills the soul.

Boat Meals & Provisions List preview
Boat Meals & Provisions List
Boat Bar & Cocktail Recipes
Crew Games & Night Challenges

The ocean will thank you for every small sustainable choice you make!

Content Creation & Digital Media

Content Creation

Yes, I see myself here too.
I enjoy creating stories — through words, photos, or videos.
When all these pieces come together, they form something beautiful — a story that connects and inspires.

Photography & Video

With the help of different tools, I try to capture moments — and then shape them into photos or videos that tell a story.
It takes time to turn a fleeting movement, a single step, into something people can truly see and feel.

Showing others what our eyes perceive — and evoking the same emotions we feel when witnessing a scene — that’s the real art behind it.

Storytelling

Storytelling isn’t just about blogging — it’s also about creating texts for websites, media channels, video scripts, and much more.

With modern AI tools, we can easily create all of this and save a lot of time.
But something is always missing — the breath of human emotion and simple human thought.

When we combine both — technology and the human touch — the result can be truly powerful.
Of course, that also requires knowing how to use these tools properly, and I’ve been working with them for quite some time.

Digital Media

When working with visual creations such as photos, videos, or reels, it’s important to know in advance how you’re going to use them.
That requires two things — knowledge of digital media, and an understanding of how it affects the viewer.

Websites & Branding

Creating a website takes time — it requires structure, organization, and attention to detail.
Before starting any project, I always talk with the client to understand their style, ideas, and the purpose of their website.

From there, I create a layout (a wireframe) to get a clear picture of how the site will look and feel.
Next comes writing the content and preparing the visual material — only then does the actual design and development begin.

When it comes to branding, it’s important to understand that colors and fonts can easily become overwhelming if not used with intention.
In this case, less is more.

I love creating my own authentic icons and logos — both for my personal brand and for clients who appreciate originality and meaning.

Social Media & Marketing

Social media is a powerful tool — it’s designed to capture your attention and keep you scrolling for hours.
That’s exactly how advertisers reach their audiences — and it’s also your opportunity to show up, to let people discover you while they scroll.

Sure, you can do that with a big budget — but with effort, creativity, and consistency, you can achieve just as much.
You don’t need thousands of euros to grow your presence — just regular, authentic, and active engagement.

No time for that? No worries — that’s where I come in to help.

Collaboration & Boplo Media

Content creation and digital marketing are broad fields — and that’s why I don’t work alone in this area.
I collaborate with talented people from different backgrounds, each bringing their own unique skills and perspectives.

We divide the work based on our strengths and, in the end, create a finished product under one shared name.
The company we work through is BoPlo Media — feel free to explore our website and see what we create together.

Blogging & Storytelling

Blogging

Blogging may not be as popular as it once was — fewer people read blogs these days — but it still plays an important role in the digital world.
Blogs help you build visibility and recognition online, giving your brand a stronger presence and authenticity.

Blogging about sailing and skipper life

I love writing about sailing and everything connected to it.
Here, I share my thoughts about boats, maintenance, life at sea, and what it truly means to work as a skipper.

Since I’m a skipper myself, I get to write from real, personal experience — and that gives my blogs genuine value and authenticity.

In this field, I also teach beginner sailors — sharing advice, practical tips, and a different perspective on sailing.

Blogging in this field is quite widespread and brings real advantages — from promoting yacht sales and charter businesses to boosting tourism and hospitality.

So… do you see why blogging still matters?

Blogging about personal growth

This topic truly speaks to me.
Through growing up and facing life’s challenges, I’ve learned a lot about emotions, behavior, and how we respond in different situations.
Personal growth is, after all, the process of learning through life’s journey — and it fits beautifully with the idea behind Sailing to Dharma.

Psychology and well-being play the most important roles in our lives — they shape who we are, how we make decisions, and how we feel love, anger, or sadness.

With my blogs in this field, I want to inspire people toward a better tomorrow — to help them become aware of who they are and where they are in life.
From that point on, we can start building our future.

Self-awareness, and above all, self-respect, are the keys.

I’m a living example that you can build a happy life from nothing — and to me, success isn’t measured by money or career,
but by the happiness a person feels.
That’s what true success means.

Writing for others

Blogging is important — both for personal growth and for business.
Since many entrepreneurs and company owners don’t have the time to write blogs themselves, and hiring a full-time writer often isn’t cost-effective, the best and most efficient solution is to work with a freelancer.

I’m happy to write blogs for your industry, even if it’s different from my own.
I approach every topic with research, authenticity, and my personal writing style — creating content that feels human and relatable.

And if you happen to come from one of the industries I already write about, then we’re already on the same wavelength — so you can stop thinking and just click here to get in touch — or simply scroll through my blogs.