A yacht charter is the perfect way to experience Croatia’s gorgeous coastline. Roman and Venetian ruins leave coastal cities historically timeworn while luscious islands surround crystal clear waters.
The country offers something for everyone: from impressive designer shopping and upscale cuisine in the old walled city of Dubrovnik to all-night clubbing on the island of Hvar.
Explore the Croatian Coastline
The Croatian coastline is home to one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Europe. Glittering azure seas lap up against majestic beaches, dense pine forests, limestone cliffs, and – to the north — soaring mountains. It’s the perfect setting for a relaxing vacation, complemented by mesmerizing culture and history.
Take a drive along the coastline to explore pristine national parks, picturesque villages, and historic cities. This itinerary focuses on the southern stretch of the coast, with stops at Korcula, known for its dense forests and picturesque beaches, and Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Discover this coastal city’s impressive historical sites on a guided tour of the limestone-paved streets, including Renaissance-style Sponza’s Palace and Gothic-style Rector’s Palace.
If you’re a nature lover, head to the Plitvice Lakes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 16 shimmering lakes and crystal-clear water. Or visit Paklenica National Park, where you can climb to the top of Veliki Svete, the highest mountain in the region, for a view that extends over the entire canyon below.
While you’re at it, take a swim in some of Croatia’s most gorgeous beaches, many of which have been named some of Europe’s most beautiful. And if you’re looking for a more action-packed experience, consider taking a sailing trip around the islands to discover the coast from the sea.
There are a variety of ways to explore the coastline, but the best way to really get to know Croatia is on a boat. Renting a private yacht is easy enough—there’s even a nifty website called Sailo that acts as an Airbnb for boats and lets you sort for ones with a skipper included in the price.
Explore three adjacent countries — Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro — on this ten-day trip. From Split to Mostar and then to Hvar, enjoy Croatia’s stunning islands, as well as the traditional food and wine of each region. You’ll also visit vineyards and learn about the country’s 2500-year history of vino making. It’s a trip that will be sure to leave you with plenty of treasured memories.
Discover the UNESCO-listed Cities
Steeped in rich history, Croatia is a cultural melting pot and enchanting island oasis of fragrant olive groves and lush vineyards. Cruise along the spectacular Dalmatian Islands on a bareboat sailboat, crewed catamaran or gulet and discover the country’s incredible heritage and natural beauty. From awe-inspiring Roman ruins and medieval cities to mystical islands and captivating national parks, Croatia has a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit.
Sailing around Croatia is an unforgettable experience and offers a chance to get to know the country from a unique perspective. In smaller ports you can find picturesque fishing villages and in larger towns you’ll discover vibrant nightlife and smart restaurants serving up traditional Croatian cuisine. Many of the islands are secluded and wild, while others are home to ancient monasteries or aristocratic palaces, and they all have a tale to tell.
The Croatian coastline is dotted with pristine beaches and crystalline waters that make this a popular luxury yacht charter destination. But it’s the cultural highlights that really set Croatia apart. A luxury yacht charter vacation gives you the chance to explore the most beautiful UNESCO-listed cities in the Adriatic, where you’ll be immersed in Croatia’s rich heritage and discover a side of the country that few other visitors see.
Embark on a sailing trip and explore a range of stunning destinations, from the city of Dubrovnik, where you can wander its marbled streets and take in the sights of this magnificent historical site, to the quaint fishing village of Hvar where you’ll discover its fragrant forests and pristine beaches. You can also visit Split and its evocative cathedral, or travel further south to Kornati Island and the magical Odysseus Cave.
Join a flotilla and make new friends as you explore the most beautiful Croatian coastline with a group of like-minded travellers. This is a fantastic way to see the country with the support of a professional skipper and expert team, who can recommend the best places to go, and arrange excursions to inland cities for an insight into local life and culture. Our Charter Experts will help you to plan the perfect yacht charter itinerary to suit your requirements and budget.
Take a Sailing Trip
A bareboat yacht charter is a great way to explore Croatia’s stunning coast. Work with your captain to craft an itinerary that takes you to all the islands you want to see. Visit Hvar to mingle with the rich and famous, Vis for a quiet escape farther out from the mainland, or Mljet to experience one of the most unique natural phenomena in Croatia. With so many islands to choose from, there is sure to be a destination that will leave you feeling utterly enchanted by this magical Mediterranean country.
Sailing holidays with skipper are a fantastic option for both beginners and experienced sailors alike. With a skipper on board, you can rest easy knowing that you will be well taken care of throughout your trip. Additionally, skippers can offer their best insider tips and knowledge about sailing in Croatia while also ensuring your boat is safely navigated at all times. Plus, you can opt for a hostess service to help you with meal preparation and provisioning on board.
If you’re still feeling a little nervous about sailing on your own, we suggest taking part in a flotilla instead. A flotilla is a group of boats that sail together while being guided by a flagship. This will ensure you get plenty of practice and support as you learn to master the basics of navigation and docking. Additionally, you’ll be able to enjoy the company of other like-minded travelers while sailing in Croatia.
The peak season for sailing in Croatia is from June to September, when temperatures are warm and dry. This is also the busiest time of year for sailing, so expect crowded marinas and restaurants. For a more relaxing sailing experience, we recommend visiting during the shoulder season of May, June, or October.
Before setting sail, be sure to pack all of the essentials for your cruising adventure. This includes non-slip deck shoes, a sun hat, and lightweight, comfortable clothing. It’s also a good idea to bring bottled water and a few days worth of food, as it can be difficult to find supermarkets on remote islands. Also, don’t forget your personal documents, such as a passport or driver’s license, along with your boat rental contract and insurance policies.
Enjoy the Croatian Cuisine
Croatian cuisine is a fusion of flavors and ingredients that celebrates the country’s rich history and culture. Each region has a signature dish that’s often made with local, organic produce. From the seafood-rich dishes of the coast to the inland stews that incorporate lamb, game and pork, Croatian cooking is a culinary journey.
When you’re ready for a break, stop by one of Croatia’s many restaurants or konobas. The service is friendly, and prices are often less expensive than in other European countries.
A Croatian meal typically starts with a bowl of soup (juha) or prosciutto and cheese (sir) before moving on to the main course, often a meat, fish or pasta dish. Dessert and black coffee round out the meal. The Croatian wine industry has exploded in recent years. You’ll find a variety of excellent wines that are made using indigenous grapes. The best of the bunch are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
If you’re a beer drinker, try a malopivo (small beer) or velikopivo (large beer). Both are available on tap and in bottles, and you can order them by the glass. If you want something stronger, there are some great vodkas to be found in Croatia, especially those with a fruity or herbal flavor.
There’s plenty to see and do in Croatia, but you might want to save some time for the Bukovac House, the birthplace of modern Croatian artist Vlaho Bukovac. This unassuming building is also a museum, where you’ll discover plenty of his captivating portraits.
While the dazzling beaches and UNESCO-listed cities of Croatia are sure to lure you in, be sure to explore the country’s rich culture and incredibly diverse cuisine. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how much there is to discover, from the hearty fare to the welcoming people. Just remember that you’re still subject to foreign laws while traveling abroad, so don’t do anything that’s against the law in your home country. For example, purchasing pirated goods is illegal in the United States, and doing so in Croatia could get you arrested. If you’re unsure, consult your travel agent.