FAQ

Students will be responsible for getting to Split, Croatia, where the group will convene to begin the program. Boz Institute staff will provide a recommended window of arrival times to help coordinate transfers to the island.

The international itinerary will likely include:

• A 30-minute transfer by bus or taxi from the Split airport to the port

• A 45-minute catamaran or 2-hour ferry ride to the Island of Hvar

For priority deadline acceptances, a non-refundable 50% deposit is due by February 15, with the remaining 50% balance due by March 31.

Payments may be made by check or credit card. Please note that a 3% processing fee will be applied to credit card transactions. Detailed payment instructions will be provided upon acceptance into the program. ACH payments MAY be accepted, please reach out if that is a preferred method of payment.

Students will be housed a hotel near one of the two laboratory field station locations.

• Rooms will be double occupancy, meaning each participant will have a roommate. Same-sex roommates will be assigned.
• Accommodations will include partial board (meals provided on-site or arranged locally)
• Housing will be within walking distance to the historic town center, giving students access to cafés, shops, and cultural sites

Students spend two immersive weeks on the Island of Hvar combining fieldwork, lab research, and cultural exploration. Each day blends hands-on science with time in the water, diving certification, and unique experiences around the island. While the exact schedule may vary based on weather and research needs, the following provides an overview of the program flow.

---

Travel Days

• Mon–Tue: Travel from the U.S. (or elsewhere) to Split, Croatia (arriving Tuesday)

---

Day 1 – Wednesday
Orientation, lab safety, and swim test
Students get settled, meet their peers and instructors, review lab and island safety, and complete a swim test.

Day 2 – Thursday
Morning: sampling site visits, water quality measurements, and deployment of sampling devices
Afternoon: data entry, analysis, snorkeling, and database maintenance

Day 3 – Friday
Intro to scuba diving course – Part 1 (shore dive)

Day 4 – Saturday
Invasive species studies: anatomy, morphology, microscopy, and database work

Day 5 – Sunday
Invasive species research continues — DNA isolation, COX I gene PCR amplification, gel electrophoresis, and an optional night snorkel

Day 6 – Monday
Morning: data analysis and research write-up
Afternoon: cultural sightseeing activity

Day 7 – Tuesday
COX I gene sequencing data processing and hierarchical clustering analysis

Day 8 – Wednesday
Bristle worm morphology, physiology, and microscopy

Day 9 – Thursday
Worm RNA extraction and qRT-PCR

Day 10 – Friday
Gene expression data analysis and research poster preparation
Intro to scuba diving course – Part 2 (boat dive)

Day 11 – Saturday
Seafloor biodiversity studies: snorkeling and Posidonia (seagrass) collection, chemical analysis prep, and sampling device retrieval

Day 12 – Sunday
Morning: Posidonia microscopy and DNA isolation, library prep for genome sequencing
Afternoon: visit to the Wild Donkey Sanctuary and an island hike (with donkeys!)

Day 13 – Monday
Lab and gear cleanup, and student symposium preparation

Day 14 – Tuesday
Seminar symposium presentations and end-of-program celebration

---

Return Travel

• Wednesday: Ferry to Split, afternoon exploring Split, overnight stay

• Thursday: Flight from Split (SPU) back to the U.S.

---

Schedule subject to change based on weather, sea conditions, and research progress.

Students are not required to participate in diving but we will still assess their swim skills.

Evening outings for minors will always be supervised, and students will not be permitted to explore on their own. While Hvar is a safe and welcoming destination, student safety is our top priority. The Boz Institute team will plan age-appropriate cultural and recreational activities in the evenings—such as group walks, local events, or island outings—within a structured and supportive environment.

Supervision and mentoring are central to the Boz Institute experience. Our programs are intentionally designed to ensure every student receives personal guidance, hands-on learning support, and a strong sense of community while in Croatia.

For minors:
Our student-to-instructor/chaperone ratio is typically 3:1, though some activities may operate at a 4:1 ratio depending on the setting. All evening and off-site activities for minors are fully supervised. Additional support is provided by the Pharos Institute Hvar team, ensuring a safe, structured, and well-supported environment throughout the program.

For non-minors (college-age participants):
Our student-to-instructor ratio is typically 3:1, with some activities at a 4:1 ratio. College-age students are given more flexibility during their free time but continue to receive guidance and logistical support from the Boz Institute and Pharos Institute Hvar teams.

Yes. Students will have the opportunity to interact with animals as part of both the research and cultural components of the program.

One of our key team members is Masha, a friendly and well-trained four-year-old yellow Labrador who assists the Boz Institute team throughout the program. She participates in daily activities and helps create a positive, supportive environment for students. If your child has dog allergies or concerns about being around a service animal, please let us know in advance so we can make accommodations.

Students will also visit the Wild Donkey Sanctuary on Hvar. Donkeys hold deep cultural and historical significance on the island, symbolizing the resilience and enduring spirit of the Dalmatian people. For centuries, they were essential to daily life—transporting olives, grapes, lavender, and other agricultural goods across Hvar’s rugged terrain. Beyond their practical role, donkeys came to represent loyalty, patience, and self-sacrifice, and were often referred to by island farmers as “household treasures.”

Hvar Island offers a rich blend of history, art, and architecture that reflects centuries of cultural exchange in the Adriatic. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, Hvar is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Stari Grad Plain — an agricultural landscape that has remained virtually unchanged since it was laid out by ancient Greek settlers over 2,400 years ago.

In Hvar Town, students can explore the stunning Fortica Fortress, built in the 16th century to protect the island from invaders and offering panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. The town also features the historic Franciscan Monastery, which houses a remarkable collection of ancient manuscripts, paintings, and artifacts — a window into the island’s maritime history.

Throughout the summer, the island comes alive with musical concerts, traditional festivals, and art events, many held in open-air squares or historic venues, allowing visitors to experience the vibrant cultural life that defines Hvar. Whether visiting centuries-old sites or attending a modern-day performance under the stars, students will experience firsthand why Hvar is celebrated as one of Europe’s cultural treasures.

Below are some of the historic and cultural sites students will visit during the program:

The Fortica is a historic 16th-century fortress perched on the hill above Hvar Town. Originally built for defensive purposes during Venetian rule, the Fortica protected the island’s residents from pirate attacks and other invasions. Today, it stands as one of Hvar’s most iconic landmarks.

Students will walk up the winding paths through pine forests to reach the fortress, where they are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Hvar Town, the harbor, and the nearby Pakleni Islands. Inside, the Fortica features restored walls, old cannons, and a small collection of ancient artifacts, including pieces recovered from sunken ships.

The Fortica is not just a reminder of Hvar’s strategic importance in the Adriatic, but also a place where history, nature, and breathtaking scenery come together.

The Franciscan Monastery is one of Hvar’s most treasured historical sites, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich artistic and maritime heritage. Inside, students can explore a remarkable collection of ancient manuscripts, nautical charts, and Renaissance artwork, including the famous 17th-century “Last Supper” painting. The peaceful cloister and beautiful gardens create a serene setting for reflecting on Hvar’s deep cultural and religious history.

The Stari Grad Plain is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been continuously farmed since it was established by ancient Greek settlers over 2,400 years ago. Remarkably, the original layout of stone walls and agricultural plots remains intact, offering a rare glimpse into ancient land management practices that are still in use today.

As part of the program, students will ride bikes through the Stari Grad Plain, weaving between vineyards, olive groves, and stone walls that have stood for centuries. Along the way, they’ll experience the living history of Hvar’s agricultural traditions and see firsthand how the landscape has shaped the island’s culture and economy over millennia.

Students will take a boat trip to the Pakleni Islands, a stunning chain of small, forested islets just off the coast of Hvar. Known for their crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and unspoiled beaches, the Pakleni Islands offer a perfect setting for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the natural beauty of the Adriatic Sea. This adventure gives students a chance to experience Hvar’s breathtaking coastal environment while learning about the region’s marine ecosystems and island culture.

Students will explore collections that tell the story of Hvar’s natural and cultural heritage from prehistoric times to the present. The museum offers insight into the island’s history, traditions, environment, and community life, helping students better understand the culture surrounding their scientific work.

Yes. All participating students should have intermediate swimming skills, as many program activities take place in or around the water. Swimming ability will be assessed during the first days of the program to ensure safety and comfort for every student.

Interviews will be with prospective students and may include their parents or guardians. The interview process helps us get to know your child and assess their readiness for a collaborative international experience. We’re looking for curiosity, communication skills, cultural awareness, and a willingness to be part of a team. The tone will be conversational and supportive, to ensure a great experience for all participants.

If your child has a medical condition that is self-manageable, please let us know during the interview. If you have specific questions or concerns in advance, feel free to contact keith@bozinstitute.org.