Expert Offshore

An image mosaic of highlights for The Argonaut Offshore Crossing sailing course

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.

The Route

Departure from Marina Veruda, Pula 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 island of Vis, ancient Issa 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.

Crossing the Strait of Otranto 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.

Rion-Antirion bridge and Gulf of Patras 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.

Navigating the Corinth Canal The Corinth Canal: The highlight of the trip. We navigate the 6.4 km long, narrow canal — a dream of Emperor Nero, finally realized in the 19th century. You will learn the strict convoy procedures and current management required for this passage.

Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio 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.

Build the miles that matter

Limited to 4 crew places. This is hands-on offshore sailing, not a passenger trip.

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.

Prerequisites:

  • Sailing Experience: Completion of our Advanced Sailing Course (or equivalent verifiable experience). Prior offshore or overnight passage experience is beneficial but not mandatory.
  • Physical Fitness: You must be able to handle watch duties (4 hours on / 4 hours off) for multiple consecutive days, including physical deck work in potentially challenging conditions.
  • Dependability: Be prepared to perform roles and assignments as designated by the skipper, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive approach to teamwork.
  • Team Spirit: A positive attitude, sense of humor, and willingness to share tasks (including cooking, cleaning, and maintenance) are essential. This is a shared adventure.
  • Resilience: A genuine love for sailing that endures even when conditions get wet, cold, or challenging. The Mediterranean does not always cooperate.

Expedition Summary

  • Departure: Pula, ...
  • Arrival: Sounio, ...
  • Duration: ... days *
  • Distance: ~750 NM
  • Places Total: ...
  • Places Available: ...
Cost Per Person
... € **
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What's Included
  • Accommodation on board
  • Skipper & expert instruction
  • Fuel
  • All standard expenses
  • Mileage & passage confirmation
What You Bring
  • Life vest with harness
  • Personal sailing gear
  • Travel to Pula / from Athens
  • Travel insurance (rec.)
  • Commitment & team spirit
* The duration depends on weather conditions and port availability, and does not influence the course cost.
** No hidden costs! Covers all standard expenses described under Terms and Conditions. Does not cover required personal equipment (life vest with harness, etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this passage non-stop?

The expedition is designed as an offshore passage with emphasis on open-water sailing. Depending on weather conditions and crew needs, tactical stops may be made for rest, provisioning, or weather windows. The skipper makes the final call based on safety and conditions.

What does the price cover?

Everything you need for the passage: accommodation on board, skipper services, fuel, and all standard expenses. The only extras are personal safety equipment, your travel to Pula and from Athens, your food and drinks, and any potential marina fees if we make tactical stops.

Can I combine this with the Aegean 600?

Absolutely — that is exactly why this expedition exists. Sail to Sounio with us, then stay on board for the Aegean 600 Regatta. The ultimate pre-regatta preparation.

What about the return journey?

We offer The Odyssey Return — a transfer passage from Cefalonia to Trogir after the regatta. You can also book the regatta itself.

What if I need to cancel?

Cancellation terms are in our Terms and Conditions. We recommend travel insurance that covers event cancellation.

Part of the Aegean 600 Campaign

This expedition is one leg of a complete offshore campaign centered on the 2026 Aegean 600 Regatta