What You Need to Know about Sailing in Croatia

Photo by Inera Isovic on Unsplash

Sailing in Croatia is one of the most immersive and luxurious ways to experience the culture and beauty of this beautiful Balkan nation. My guide will help you determine how to plan your time.

Cruise v Charter 

If you want to experience the Adriatic Sea for yourself, then you have two options. The first is to join a scheduled boat cruise. While you can choose to board a luxury cruise liner, a cruise generally comes out as the more affordable option.

Alternatively, you can charter a boat exclusively for your party and devise your own bespoke itinerary. When chartering a boat in Croatia you can elect for skippered or bareboat, subject to whether someone in your group is licensed. 

Cruises and charters are typically scheduled for 7-8 days although you can also find longer options that tap on further days to visit the coastlines of neighboring countries. Day tours and charters are also a possibility if you’d rather spend more time on dry land.

Types of boats available 

Sailboats are the most affordable boat charter option. Bear in mind that you will journey at a slower pace so you will need to devise your itinerary carefully. These boats typically feature 2-5 cabins and come as skippered or bareboat. 

Catamarans are an upgrade on classic sailboats. They vary from 3-6 cabins and offer a higher level of comfort. In Croatia, catamaran charters always come with a skipper and you will discuss your requirements for further crew members to ensure your comfort. 

Motor yachts come with a full crew that may even outnumber your party. They offer higher speeds than sail boats and catamarans which means that you can see more of the coast during a shorter vacation. They are decked out with glamorous touches and extra entertainment and usually feature 2-5 cabins. 

Gulets in Croatia are generally equipped with full sails and motors which means that they fuse together retro sailing style with the modern perk of speed so you can cover more ground. These large vessels cater for larger groups of up to 12 cabins and are chartered only with a full crew.

What to expect when you charter a boat in Croatia 

When you charter a boat, you dictate the itinerary and where you stop. You can discuss your wishes with your skipper or your charter agency if you have selected a bareboat charter. 

The cost of chartering your vessel will include the charter fee and the inclusion of crew. Subject to the boat charter you choose, you may have to pay for such expenses as food, marina fees, fuel, and docking while on board. Check this at the time of booking so you know what additional costs to expect. 

Croatia’s best islands

Once you’ve gotten a steer on the basics, the next question is where will your sailing excursion in Croatia take you? 

Hvar is the trendiest of Croatia’s islands and is the one that appeals to all travelers. Fine dining, lively nightlife, snorkeling, wine tasting and natural beauty all come together on this cosmopolitan island. 

The southerly island of Mljet is touted to be Croatia’s greenest. Mljet National Park comprises much of the island’s area and boasts two turquoise saltwater lakes and fragrant woodland.

As the most remote of Croatia’s islands Vis is relatively devoid of tourists. This is the place to retreat and indulge in seafood, organic produce, excellent hiking, and pure tranquility.  

Read more about traveling in Croatia and when you are ready to set sail, contact me and we will plan your perfect itinerary.