Two kayakers paddled 400 miles [650 km] in 20 days from Savudrija to Dubrovnik to help a seriously ill girl

Two men rowed nearly 650 kilometers along the Croatian coast over 20 days, navigating through some of the most challenging waters of the Adriatic Sea, in a mission to raise funds for an eight-year-old girl suffering from a rare neurological condition. Alen Banković and Nino Kocijan, known for their YouTube channel "Terra Croatia," embarked on this grueling journey starting from the northernmost point of Croatia, Savudrija, and ending in Dubrovnik, the southernmost city on the Dalmatian coast. Their route took them along the western side of Istria, past Poreč and Pula, before heading into open sea toward the island of Unija. From there, they traversed the long chain of islands including the Dugi Otok, the Kornat archipelago, near Žirje and Rogoznica, then continued through Šolta, Brač, Hvar, Pelješac, Korčula, Mljet, and finally reached Dubrovnik. The expedition was not just a physical challenge but a deeply personal one, driven by their commitment to help Ivan Horvat, who suffers from neurofibromatosis type 2 and requires specialized treatment in Turkey. The two men faced extreme conditions throughout their journey. They rowed up to 50 kilometers each day, often waking early in the morning and continuing well into the night under the starry sky to ensure they reached their destination points safely. They slept in tents on remote beaches far from civilization, enduring high temperatures and the risk of dehydration. To combat these challenges, they used a desalination pump to convert seawater into drinkable water. Despite the harsh weather, including stormy seas and high waves, they remained focused on their goal, which kept them motivated even during moments of exhaustion. Their route exposed them to both the beauty and the isolation of the Adriatic coastline. Along the way, they encountered dolphins, schools of tuna jumping out of the water, isolated lighthouses perched atop cliffs, and hidden coves with crystal-clear waters. They also visited abandoned military bunkers and tunnels concealed within the rocky terrain along the coast. These experiences were documented as part of their ongoing exploration efforts, reflecting their passion for discovery and storytelling through their channel. Despite the physical and mental toll of the expedition, neither man considered giving up. Their determination stemmed from the need to secure financial support for Ivan, whose medical care continues to require donations. The fundraising campaign remains active, with specific bank account details provided for contributions. The money collected will be used to fund her treatment in Turkey, a critical step in improving her quality of life and potentially extending it. The success of the "Neptune" expedition has set the stage for an even greater challenge ahead. Alen and Nino have already begun planning for a new project that pushes the boundaries of endurance, rowing across the Atlantic Ocean in a specialized ocean kayak. This ambitious endeavor is scheduled to begin in 2028, following extensive preparations and securing the necessary financial structure. Their current effort has not only raised awareness about Ivan's condition but also demonstrated the power of individual initiative in addressing complex health issues through community support and international collaboration.