Adventure sailing in Croatia

Whether you're an experienced sailor or a complete novice, Croatia has something magical to offer for everybody who is into nature and scenic  history. 

Discover hidden gems in the Adriatic on a Sailing yacht

Croatia boasts over 1,200 islands scattered along its coastline. Many are uninhabited, offering a sense of discovery and solitude.

But it’s not just the islands—Croatia's calm seas, predictable winds in summertime, and short distances between destinations make it perfect for both beginners and seasoned sailors. Plus, the country’s rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality make it a truly unforgettable experience.

Croatia is also incredibly accessible. Split, Dubrovnik, and Zadar are major hubs with nearby marinas, making it easy to start your journey. This is not unnoticed by the rich and famous who stay here on their super yachts having much more privacy compared to the obvious places like Saint Tropez on the French Riviera. The film industry also take advantage of  the beautiful ancient scenery for movies like MamaMia and series like Game of Thrones.

Croatia is perfect for city trips to places like Zagreb, Trogir Split and Dubrovnik but one of the biggest assets of Croatia is their long and stunning coast line.  The coastline doesn't have any sand beaches apart from Bol which is a very busy tourist destination. The pebble beaches of Croatia come with some discomfort compared to sandy beaches in other Mediterranean destinations. The best way to experience the stunning coast line with more than 1200 Islands is from a boat. This eliminates all disadvantages and fully accommodate the best possible way to experience swimming and to water sports in crystal clear waters around the Islands. Who needs a beach chair when you can just jump into the sea from your own sailing yacht?

Your sail boat is your comfortable home while exploring and make new adventures. There are many charter companies to choose from but this comes with some things to keep in mind. First you need a boat license and charter boats are quite expense to rent. Additional costs like Harbor fees, insurance, fuel, cleaning, a tenders, sup boards raise the costs of your Croatian adventure even more . In general Croatia is considered to be quite inexpensive except when it comes to the top tourist destinations and.....yachting.  Keep a close eye on the state of the boat your are about to rent before you leave, you will not be the first who's is going to be held responsible for damages which were caused by others and were already there when you got it. 

Many charter weeks tend to start at the same day,  on Saturdays to be precise. When sailing there is so much distance you can cover so you will all go to the same places at the same time. This means some places will be crowed on a given day while the next day it is completely empty even in peak season.

If you don't have the boat license there are some alternatives, you can book a cruise but these very large boats only go to the obvious places like Split and Dubrovnik and are way to big to be able to anchor in scenic bays on one of the many stunning Islands. Smaller cruise vessels also tend to go to the obvious places but can reach more places than the big cruise liners . Many charter companies offer skippers who accompany you on the boat you rented to help you out with sailing when needed. Even if you have a valid boat license are you able to Mediterranean moore the vessel in tight and crowdy places in comfort?

There are few companies like GoXperience who offer skippered, all-inclusive sailing trips and take all the hassle away from you. You just hop aboard and the boat is already stocked with food, drinks and fuel. If you want you can sail but this is optional, the skipper can take you anywhere you want and of course they have a lot of local knowledge. To  make real sailing adventures by avoiding the crowd even in peak season they depart and arrive on different days then all the others and travel counter clockwise when possible. Pricing is all-inclusive for everything onboard except alcohol so no surprises.

Where to depart and where to go?

Croatia has a very long coastline so it is almost impossible to see it all. Split airport  gives you quick access to Trogir and Split, many charter companies have their base in this area. Marina Kastela lies in-between Trogir and Split and is very close to Split airport. With many different charter companies including GoXperience to choose from, this is a perfect place to start your adventure and explore the Croatian Islands in the Dalmatian region.

So, where should you go from there? Here’s a curated itinerary to inspire your adventure:

1. Brač: Just a short sail away, Brač is famous for Zlatni Rat beach. This iconic strip of white pebbles is shaped by the winds and waves, creating a unique, ever-changing landscape. Anchor nearby for a swim or hike up Vidova Gora, the highest peak on any Adriatic island.

2. Hvar: Known as Croatia’s “party island,” Hvar has much more to offer than nightlife. Stroll through its picturesque old town, visit the stunning Spanjola Fortress, and enjoy fine dining by the waterfront. Around the surrounded small islands and bays you can find a quiet anchorage if you prefer tranquility over nightlife.

3. Vis and the Blue Cave: Vis is a favorite for those seeking authenticity and charm. From the untouched beaches to the famous Blue Cave on nearby Biševo Island, Vis offers a truly magical experience. Is one of the furthest Island away from Split. Vis town and Kut are nice places to visit. On the other side is the scenic village of Komiza where parts of the film MamaMia is recorded. (Pro tip, the sail yacht used for the movie has its berth in Marina Kastela)

4. Šolta: Looking for a quieter escape? Šolta’s secluded bays and olive groves make it a hidden gem. Sip on local wines and enjoy fresh seafood caught that morning.

5. Mljet National Park: For nature lovers, Mljet is unmissable. Explore saltwater lakes, kayak through lush landscapes, or simply soak in the serenity.

Practical Tips for your Sailing Adventure in Croatia  Now, let’s cover some quick tips to make the most of your trip:

1. Best Time to Sail: Aim for May, June, or September for ideal sailing conditions and fewer crowds. In these months generally weather conditions are calmer so suitable for family holidays with your kids. However, weather can change quickly so check always the local weather websites and ask locals before departure!

2. Packing Essentials: Pack light! Bring sunscreen, swimsuits, non-slip shoes, and casual clothes. Don’t forget a waterproof bag for your gadgets.

3. Booking Early: Sailing’s charters are in high demand, especially during the summer months. Book early to secure your dates and customize your experience.

4. Plan for Stops: Let your skipper know if there are specific activities or islands you want to prioritize—like snorkeling, hiking, or dining. When sailing yourself without skipper, checking out all activities before you trip start is part of the fun!