10 reasons why Croatia is best sailing holiday destination

  • ideal sailing conditions and sunny Mediterranean climate
  • 1.300 islands and over 3.000 miles of impressive coast
  • widest range of sailboats and catamarans for rental in the world
  • opportunities for activity sailing, island hiking or cycling
  • impressive marine national parks reachable only by boat
  • authentic Dalmatian and Istrian cuisine including top wines
  • small distances between the islands are ideal for beginners, family yacht charters and day sailors
  • warm and crystal-clear seas ideal for snorkelling or swimming
  • UNESCO world heritage sites, ancient villages and medieval cities
  •  unique maritime ambience and untouched nature
Sailing in Croatia

One Week Sailing In Zadar

Northern Dalmatia with its capital Zadar city is among most diverse regions at the Croatian coast. With abundance of natural parks, exotic beaches, vibrant towns and a unique philosophy of local people, Zadar islands assure completely natural and welcoming maritime environment.  

It is no wonder that this region is among most popular and rewarding yacht holiday destinations in Europe for families with kids. Small distances between almost 500 tiny islands allow easy island hopping and provide amazing opportunities for various water activities.

A 7-day bareboat sailing Croatia tour filled with positive emotions on your very own yacht can be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. It only takes 15-20 minutes from Zadar international airport to reach some of the most popular yachting destinations in Croatia where your odyssey begins.

Yacht holiday Croatia experience in northern Dalmatia is recommended for beginners and day sailors that can rent bareboat charters from beautiful marinas Sukošan, Biograd or Murter from where you can reach world-known Kornati national park within a few hours of sailing.

What are most beautiful sailing spots in Zadar?

  • Kornati Islands National Park. This island chain really is one of Croatia's natural wonders and the most iconic sailing destination in Croatia. Cruising through the park between unique yellow-coned hill tops and hundreds of islands feels like you are sailing across another planet. Between numerous islands, you will surely find the perfect spot to drop your anchor. This island chain is a home of best traditional restaurants of Dalmatia where you can dine in a completely natural maritime ambience.
  • Dugi otok. Discovering longest island of the area will probably take 2 days. Explore its amazing biodiversity, aromatic pine forests, beautiful sandy beaches, picturesque fishing villages and find peaceful environment in a seclusion of lonely bays. A great place to visit during your sailing holiday in Croatia is Telaščica wildlife park on a far south of the island.
  • Kaprije. If you are looking for a typical Dalmatian Village - this is it. Kaprije is a heaven for anyone searching for original Dalmatian heartbeat and a true treasure still waiting to be discovered. With no cars on the island, surrounded only by few houses traditional family-run restaurants, Kaprije definitely is the place, where time stops. While you are here, make sure to taste dishes traditionally baked  "under the bell"  if you visit Kaprije from a private Croatia yacht charter you can expect nothing but pure magic.
Sailing in Zadar
Sailing Kornati islands
Traditional Dalmatian Cuisine

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 holiday in Croatia if you are a beginner or visiting Croatian coast for the first time.

Discover vibrant island villages, lively ports, narrow stony streets of charming Dalmatian towns, blend into the nightlife of summer promenades and feel the real pulse of these secluded Adriatic treasures. If you are a person that prefers to relax the privacy of your own vessel surrounded with lush-green forests and a scent of perfumed Mediterranean vegetation, get ready for pure magic.

Croatian islands you should not miss our during Split sailing holidayŠolta, Brač, Vis and Hvar

Stylish Hvar town, golden horn beach on island Bol, ancient Stari Grad plateau and legendary Vis are just some of the hot spots on your sailing itinerary from Split. To reach those charming spots rent a sailboat or catamaran charter from Dalmatian marinas between towns Primošten and Split.

Island Hvar is world-known as one of the sunniest places in Europe. The same-named town is famous as being the busiest and the most hedonistic places on Adriatic. If you prefer more tanquility, set sail towards the islands Šolta or discover the amazing coves of Brač isle. Here you can find some of the most attractive sandy beaches in the area. Most reliable Split Sailboat Charters you will find in marinas Kaštela and UNESCO heritage site Trogir old town.

Where to visit during your Croatia sailing holiday in Split?

  • Split. Welcome to the second largest city in Croatia! If you chose Split as your primary sailing destination, take the advice and spend some time to really discover the pearl of Dalmatia. Feel the pulse of its vivid streets, take a walk along the harbor promenade and visit well-known UNSECO world heritage site, the impressive Diocletian palace.
  • Hvar Town. Either you rent Croatia bareboat charter for a week or you are more into one-day short sailing trips in Croatia, Hvar should be on your bucket list. Even if you prefer privacy on your vacation, this sun-soaked dazzling Croatian "Monte Carlo" is really worth visiting. Stroll along the enchanting promenade, drink a cocktail 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 near Biševo island. In this naturally formed cavity you can witness colorful game between the sun and the sea, which generates a unique deep blue light. The perfect time to visit the cave is between 11am and noon and off season.
  • Vis Island. Well, you really don't want to miss this one out. The buzzing port of Vis and serene fishing village Komiža should be a part of any Croatia yacht holiday itinerary. Surrounded with crystal clear seas, lonely natural bay this Adriatic gem offers plenty opportunities for water activities. Rugged landscapes provide scenic trails for hiking or cycling and exploring 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 and fishermen enjoying in slow-paced Mediterranean way of life.
  • Bol Brač including the world-famous "Golden Horn beach". With population close to 1.500, Bol is the largest town on the island Brač. Typical stone houses, lush-green hills with olive grove trees and tidy vineyards give this town a distinctive character. Despite the busy beach bars at the shore avenue, you can still find quiet in a romantic restaurant or taste some of the best island wines in a local winery. 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 kiteboarders from all over the world seeking some adrenaline action.
Split
Hvar
Blue cave
Bol, golden horn beach on Brač
Vis, Komiža

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 divers regions of Croatia. Vibrant Venetian towns and historic places dating centuries ago on one side and protected wildlife parks and untouched nature of distant islands on the other. And they are both worth to explore.

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 in the 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 sail to the most beautiful 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 sunny climate, warm seas and amazing local food delicacies this is the perfect place for a cruising holiday. Croatia sailboat rental is available in 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 marinas to rent a yacht in Croatia lie between Venetian towns Poreč and Pula. This sea also assures best opportunity to spot dolphins.
  • Cres. Discover largest Croatian island under the sails of you very own skippered yacht charter. Explore unspoiled bays of Unije island, admire amazing landscape diversity of Kvarner bay, endmic wildlife and hidden sandy beaches of Lošinj and small island villages reflecting typical Venetian architecture. Island's rugged terrain provides numerous recreational opportunities and a wide range of hiking trails.
  • Cape Kamenjak. This stunning national park lies at a doorstep of largest Istrian city Pula, where you can rent sailboat for a relaxing cruising adventure. Surrounded by majestic cliffs and beautiful beaches, this wildlife resort assures you completely natural ambience and one-of-a-kind scenery. Experience this magnificent area anchoring in one of well protected coves and visit traditional family-run restaurant where you can try delicious home made pasta with truffles and best Malvazija wines.
Pula Holidays
Cycling Cres
Cres Croatia
Kamenjak Wildlife resort

Best 6 Sailing Tips In Croatia

  • Book your holidays early. Don't wait for last minute rental deals and book at early fist 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 our article about yacht holiday packing list.
  • Don't forget your Passport, ID and enough cash. Your yacht charter should be always paid in advance but you still need to think of other costs you might encounter 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.
  • Please stick to your check-in hours. Sailing boats need to be prepared and cleaned before your embarkation. If you arrive earlier, go for a swim instead of waiting in the marina. There is always a beach nearby. Check out is after 8 AM the next Saturday. It is expected to return your boat until Friday evening for underwater inspection.
  • Adjust your daily sailing dynamics and keep your distances small. It is impossible to explore all the highlights in one week. So plan the weekly 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 can recommend best option for a relaxing and above all fun Croatia sailing trip.

Best Sailing Yacht Charters In Croatia

Don't wait up and experience Croatian islands by booking one of these beautiful yachts available for charter from premium sailing destinations in Croatia.

Sun odyssey 490
Sailing Yachts
best Sailing charters in Croatia
Sailboats
Croatia catamaran Sailing
Catamarans