10 reasons why Croatia is best sailing holiday destination

  • safe sailing conditions with low winds and dry Mediterranean climate
  • 1.300 islands and over 3.000 miles of coast to discover
  • widest range of sailboats and catamarans for rental in the world
  • amazing opportunities for activity sailing, hiking or cycling
  • untouched islands & marine national parks
  • genuine island cuisine & top wines
  • small distances between islands ideal for family yacht vacations 
  • warm and crystal-clear seas for snorkelling or swimming
  • UNESCO world heritage sites, ancient villages and medieval cities
  • authentic maritime ambience
Best Sailing Holidays Europe 2027

One Week Sailing In Zadar

One of the most rewarding Croatia sailing itineraries is certainly less-known northern Dalmatia. With tranquil marine natural parks, numerous densely scattered islands and lonely bays this region is still waiting to be discovered. Iconic small island towns and a unique philosophy of islanders makes Zadar islands heaven for those who desire less-crowded areas and genuine locations. Sailing Kornati islands is probably best kept secret of this region and best way to explore it is by chartering a yacht in Zadar.

It is no wonder that this region is among most popular yacht holiday destinations in Europe for families with kids. Small distances between tiny islands and safe sailing grounds assure easy island hopping and provide amazing opportunities for various water activities.

Bareboat charters in Croatia choose to explore this itinerary simply to avoid busy areas and enjoy in scenery of untouched landscapes. It will only take 15 minutes from Zadar international airport to reach the beloved yachting destinations in Croatia Biograd and largest Croatian marina Sukošan from where yacht charters begin. Renting a boat in Zadar and northern Dalmatia is recommended for anyone that desire to spend their days at sea surrounded with natural environment and like to dedicate their evenings to finest food exploration.

Zadar yacht charter - Best sailing spots

  • Kornati Islands National Park - This island chain really is one of Croatia's natural wonders and most iconic sailing destination in Croatia. Cruising between unique yellow-coned hill tops and hundreds dotted islands feels like being on another planet. This island chain is a home of best restaurants of Dalmatia, inviting you to stop for finest food exploration.
  • Dugi otok - Take your time and sail around longest island of Zadar region. Dugi Otok is a home of aromatic pine forests, lonely bays and quaint fiushing villages. A must-visit during yacht charter vacations in Croatia is stunning Telaščica national park.
  • Kaprije - If you are looking for a typical Dalmatian Village - this is it. The island is hidden treasure and one of the last heavenly oasis of the Mediterranean. With tiny family-run restaurants and a quaint maritime atmosphere, Kaprije definitely is the place to chill. Many sailor meet here and share their stories in local taverns called "Konoba" Make sure to taste traditionally prepared dish "under dome" based on island lamb and freshly caught fish.
Best Sailing Holiday In Croatia 2027
Best Sailing Holidays 2027
Sailing Holidays 2026

One Week Sailing In Split

Second largest Croatian city Split is the heart of Dalmatia and most popular launchpad for a yacht charter week in Croatia. UNESCO Cultural Heritage Sites Split and Trogir town are best options for a yacht vacations in Croatia if you are a beginner or visiting Croatian coast for the first time.

Discover vibrant island villages, lively ports, narrow streets of charming old towns, blend into alluring summer promenades and feel the original pulse of Adriatic sea. If your desire to relax in the the privacy of your yacht charter surrounded with lush-green forests and fragrant ocean air these are must-visit Croatian islandsŠolta, Brač, Vis and Hvar.

Stylish Hvar town, golden horn beach of Bol, ancient Stari Grad plateau and legendary Vis are the locations you simpy need to explore during yacht holidays in Split.To easier reach those spots hire sailboat or a catamaran with skipper for full week and explore at your own pace.

Hvar is one of the most beloved islands for luxury cruises to Croatia with a genuine Dalmatian atmosphere attracting guests from all over the world. Longest Croatian islands mostly known of numerous tourist attractions can be busy during high summer but absolutely worth visiting. If you prefer more tranquility, set sail towards the islands Šolta or discover iconic coves of Brač. Most Sailing charters in Split moor in marina Kaštela and UNESCO heritage site Trogir old town.

Where to visit during your sailing holiday?

  • Split Welcome to the second largest city in Croatia! If you chose Split as your starting location try to first spend some time exploring this Dalmatian pearl. Feel the pulse of its lively streets, take a walk along the harbour promenade and visit well-known UNSECO world heritage site - the impressive Diocletian palace built by Romans.
  • Hvar Town is simply a must-visit. This attractive jet-set town is the ultimate location you should visit when sailing from Split. Even if you prefer privacy during your yacht charter vacation, this sun-soaked dazzling Croatian "Monte Carlo" is really worth visiting. Stroll along the enchanting promenade, take a drink in a nearby beach bar or simply relax and enjoy in a spectacular views from town fortress.
  • Blue cave of the island Biševo. The island Vis is well-known of its tunnels and cavities, but the most famous is the »Blue cave« on isolated Biševo island. In this naturally formed cavity you can witness colourful game between the sun and the sea, which generates a unique deep blue light. The perfect time to visit the cave is off season between 11am and noon.
  • Vis Island Well, you really don't want to miss this one out. Buzzing port of Vis and serene fishing village Komiža should be a part of any Croatia yacht holiday itinerary. Surrounded with crystal clear seas and lonely bays this Vis offers plenty opportunities for water activities. Rugged landscapes provide scenic trails for hiking or cycling inviting you to also epxlore the inland. Discovering turbulent history of Vis dating near 3 centuries back from a quad can be a special experience. But the main charm of this picturesque isle originates from characteristic local villagers reflecting the true heartbeat of Dalmatia.
  • Bol Brač including world-famous "Golden Horn beach". With population close to 1.500, Bol is among largest towns on the island. Typical stone houses, steep hills with olive grove trees and tidy vineyards give this town a distinctive character. Despite busy beach bars at the shore avenue, you can still find quiet romantic restaurants where you can taste best island wines. Because of its location, high mountain ridges over Bol create so called funnel effect that is why the winds here reach stronger force. That attracts windsurfers and kite surfers seeking pure adrenaline and action on waves.
Best Sailing Holidays Europe
Best Sailing Holidays Europe
Blue cave
Bol, golden horn beach on Brač
Best Sailing Holidays Europe

One Week Sailing In Pula

When you hire bareboat charter in Croatia from ancient Pula city you have a unique opportunity to discover one of the most diverse regions of Croatia. Typical Venetian towns and historic places dating centuries ago on one side and untouched nature of distant islands on the other are a great excuse for your ultimate Croatian getaway.

It is not a coincidence that Istrian peninsula is often called "Croatian Tuscany". The closeness of Italy and centuries of Italian influence left some of the most remarkable monuments and rich cultural heritage inside this region.

The ultimate way to experience Northern Croatia is definitively by renting a private yacht in Pula. From here you can begin your adventure and take a laid-back cruise across some of the most spectacullar sailing locations of Istria and Kvarner gulf.

Hidden in the heart of Europe Istrian region is one of the best kept Mediterranean treasures, still waiting to be discovered. Intact landscapes, sun-soaked hills covered with olive groves, endless vineyards, secluded stony villages bursting out of the hillocks and vibrant historic towns will leave you breathless. When you add crystal-clear seas and amazing Istrian food delicacies this is the perfect place for a cruising holiday. Croatia sailboat rental is possible from modern marinas Pula, Medulin and Vrsar.

Where is the best place to sail in Pula Croatia?

  • Swim and sail with dolphins while sailing in Istria. Northern Adriatic is swarming with flocks of dolphins. Crystal-clear seas of cape Kamenjak and well-preserved natural park Brioni are a home to many dolphin families. What can be better then to admire these wonderful creatures from a comfort of a private sailboat or a catamaran? Best outgoing marinas where you can rent a yacht in Croatia lie nearby historic city of Pula. 
  • Cres. Discover largest Croatian island under the sails of you very own skippered yacht charter. Explore unspoiled bays of neighboring Unije island, sail along rugged landscapes, snorkel and explore endemic underwater life of hidden bays and visit typical Kvarner villages. Cres provides great recreational opportunities and a wide range of hiking trails.
  • Cape Kamenjak. This stunning wildlife park lies at a doorstep of largest Istrian city Pula. Here you can find numerous options to rent sailboat from Best Croatian charter companies.  Surrounded with majestic cliffs and beautiful beaches Kamenjak park delivers a completely natural scenery. Simply drop your anchor in one of well-protected coves and visit traditional family-run restaurant where you can try delicious home made pasta with truffles and taste  most popular wine of Istria called "Malvazija".
Best Sailing Holidays Europe
Best Sailing Holidays Europe
Cres Croatia
best yacht holidays Europe

Best Croatia Sailing Tips

  • Book your holidays early. Don't wait for last minute rental deals and book at early first minute yacht charter discounts at least 6 months before your departure. Most boats are still available and you can take the advantage of paying for sailboat rental in 2-3 instalments. 
  • Pack rationally. Don't over pack and bring a soft bag rather then a plastic suitcase. Double cabins on yachts are bright and spacious, but they can get uncomfortable with two suitcases inside. Find some useful tips in the article about yacht holiday packing list.
  • Don't forget your Passport, ID and bring enough cash. Although you pay for your yacht charter in advance, you still need to think of other costs during your sailing week (fuel, onboard provisions, tourist tax, marina fees, national parks, transfers and eating out)
  • Check the weather. Before your departure check the forecast and pack accordingly. Especially if you plan to take your tour in early Spring or Autumn. Please also read some facts about what is the best time to sail Croatia.
  • Stick to scheduled check-in hours. Sailing boats need to be prepared and cleaned before your cruising holiday starts. If you arrive earlier, make this time valuable for shopping or swimming instead of waiting in front of the marina office. There is always a beach nearby. And let your skipper first check the boat before everybody starts to embark. He also needs time to get acquainted with the yacht. Check out is after 9 AM the next Saturday. It is expected to return your boat until Friday evening for underwater inspection.
  • Adjust daily sailing dynamics and keep your distances small. It is fascinating how much you can see in one week. And perhaps it is better to leave some islands for your next Croatia sailing vacation. So plan your itinerary according to your sailing experience, your expectations and the most important - current weather conditions. If you book a skippered Croatia yacht charter your skipper will be happy to recommend best option for an exciting and fun sailing trip.

FAQs

 

Croatian coast with densely scattered islands, safe harbors and modern marina infrastructure ensures best conditions for a stress-free sailing holiday.

 

Best sailing destinations in Croatia are located between the two largest Dalmatian cities Zadar and Split. From there you can explore historic island villages, peaceful marine parks and amazing gourmet locations.

 

7-day Split Croatia sailing itinerary is most beloved sailing route for family yacht charters providing easy island hopping, breathtaking landscapes and genuine maritime atmosphere.

 

Sailing with skipper in Croatia will allow you a safe and carefree charter experience including local expertise and a personalized route itinerary to best suit your vacation preferences.

 

With dry and warm weather, low winds and unique summer vibe in the islands the months June, July and August is best time to sail Croatia for a beginner.

 

All inclusive private skippered sailboat charter will cost you on average 5.000€ weekly, whilst catamaran charters in Croatia vary between 7.000 and 10.000€.

 

With long lasting tradition and years of experience in yacht charter business Active sailing is among most reliable and informative sailing holiday companies in Croatia.

Best Yachts For Sailing Holidays In Croatia 2026 & 2027

Below you can find most beloved sailboats and catamarans available for 7-day chartering in Croatia. These comfortable vessels were in recent years considered best-balanced for a care-free sailing vacation at the Adriatic.

Best Sailing Holidays In Croatia 2027
Sailing Yachts
Best Sailing Holidays Europe 2027
OCEANIS 52
Best Sailing Holidays Europe 2027
BALI 4.2

Blog by Janez Rupnik, Active Sailing

Best Sailing Holidays Europe