10 tips for an amazing sailing holidays in Croatia

1. Book your charter early

Take the advantage of pre-seson discounts and book early when most of the bareboat sailboat charters in Croatia are still available. Don't wait for last minute Croatia yacht charter deals since availability can be limited if you book late. It is highly recommended to contact reliable Croatia yacht charter company to find a yacht and advice on the itinerary to best suit your preferences. 

2. Hire Sailboat or Catamaran 

Renting a sailboat or a catamaran over a motor yacht will definetively ensure best balanced  yachting holiday in Croatia. Sailing yacht rental in Croatia is cost-efficient on fuel, charter fee is lower plus you get to explore the islands in a traditional and adventurous way. Croatia catamaran charter experience might be higher on overall cost, whilst renting a mono hull is definitively more  green-oriented, fun and authentic for Croatia.

3. Take a trip in summer months 

Best time to sail Croatia are warm and dry summer months June July and August. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower temperatures sailing trip in May or September is ideal and you can still catch lots of summer vibe at the Adriatic coast.

4. Rent a yacht in Croatia for 1 week

Private yacht charters in Croatia run in 7-day itinerary starting/ending Saturdays which is considered ideal duration and brings best-balanced cruising experience for most guests.

5. How much for a yacht charter vacation?

Before you begin to pack for your journey, estimate the overall expense you are prepared to spend for yachting vacations in Croatia. Don't let the unexpected costs surprise you. Brokers and charter agencies in Croatia that will be happy to advice which option would best suit you and present cost calculation breakdown. Luxury catamaran charters already come with multitude of inclusions on board, but you can expect higher overall price. Skippered sailboat charter in Croatia is considered best balanced holiday experience and budget-friendly for most groups.

6. Keep things simple 

Don't over pack and rather bring soft duffel bag instead of a hard suitcase. Double cabins on modern charter yachts in Croatia are bright and spacious. However, when 2 large suitcases are blocking cabin doors it might get cramped. Don't forget your passport, ID and take enough cash in EUROS. The extras you have to pay at spot are usually fuel for boat, provisions, tourist tax, marina fees, national parks & taxi transfers.

7. Choosing the right destination 

Focus on a specific area and islands in Croatia you wish to explore and keep daily distances short. There are four main sailing destinations in Croatia. All nearby major Croatian airports with good flight and road connections: Pula, Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik. The main benefit of a private yacht charter in Croatia is that the sailing itinerary is 100% flexible and can be adjusted with your skipper before and during your trip.

8. Check in and check out

Please stick to your check in hours received in "boarding pass". Your yacht should first be prepared and cleaned before embarking, so be patient. There are tidy beaches and bars near marina for refreshment. Check out is usually after 9 AM the next Saturday. It is mandatory to return to marina by Friday evening for underwater inspection.

9. Keep daily distances small

Best advice for a beginner coming to sail Croatia for the fist time is "Don't rush". It is amazing how much you can see within a week, so leave some spots for your next sailing adventures. Rather enjoy holiday moments stress-free and respect the sea. Sailing on Adriatic in summer is generally smooth and fun with no severe weather, but it can change rapidly and conditions might become challenging. That is why hiring Croatian skipper is advised. During morning calm, is better to swim and chill while waiting for anabatic afternoon winds.

10. Rationalize your provisions 

Fill the boat lockers with enough food and supplies beforehand. Grocery is cheaper in the markets outside marinas. Charter companies in Croatia usually provide external services to provision the yacht for you if you do not have the time or means to shop in advence. Some outer islands might have limited supply, but you can always buy the basics during your charter week. Your skipper will advice on where is best to shop. Bring enough bottled water and don't forget the basics: paper towels, garbage bags, toilet paper, sponges, washing liquid, coffee & snacks. You can find some tips on what to pack in our SAILING PACKING LIST blog.

- POLAKO or  POMALO (Easy, slowly or also take it easy) - the most common phrase in Dalmatia.

- BOK (Hello and also Bye)

- MOŽE (O.K.)

- ŽIVJELI (Cheers, when drinking)

- KONOBA (traditional family-owned restaurant with fresh local food)

- DOBAR TEK (Enjoy your meal)

- AJMO (Let's go)

- HVALA (Thank You)

- MOLIM (Please)

- DOBAR DAN (Good Afternoon)

- NEMA PROBLEMA (No problem)

- MOGU LI PLATITI (Can I pay?)

Croatian is basically complicated language to master, but the locals love it when visitors to their country make the effort to learn some of these phrases. Sometimes these phrases mean more then just a translated word. In some cases they express your general mood or a state of mind. If you are in emergency or distress, don't worry. The locals will be happy to help you out. 

5 basic ethical guidelines for sailors

1. Respect the sea and fellow sailors

2. Keep the environment and the sea clean...and your boat tidy

3. Always try to help other sailors when in distress

4. Follow local maritime rules and regulations at sea, marinas and ports

5. Don't talk about politics or religion aboard. There are so many better topics.