PULA
WHERE TO SAIL IN CROATIA?
Chartering a sailing yacht to explore hundreds of densely scattered islands is definitively the most unique holiday experience at the Croatian coast. Ideally is to focus on a specific area and explore all the beautiful spots and islands of that region. It is amazing how much can you see within a week. Split sailing itinerary is recommended for anyone who wishes to sail around the world-known island Hvar, Brač, Vis and Korčula. But there are also locations that are more quiet and definitively worth exploring. Like Kornati national park or less-crowded north Adriatic coast.
If you plan to charter a yacht in Croatia, most it is important that you visit all the stunning islands at a slow pace and embrace the true heartbeat of this stunning country. There are beauties and breathtaking locations behind every corner that will certainly inspire you to come back for more.
Contact a reliable yacht charter agency so they can recommend the itinerary to meet you expectations and suit your travelling style. There are 4 main yacht charter destinations where you can rent yachts in Croatia. Begin your cruising holiday in UNESCO world heritage sites SPLIT or DUBROVNIK, or explore less visited sailing grounds of PULA and ZADAR and impressive Kornati national park.
SPLIT YACHT CHARTERS
Renting sailboat in Split or historic UNESCO locations Trogir and Šibenik will allow you to explore the most wonderful ailing grounds in Croatia. Recommended for beginners, day sailors or a family yacht vacation is a standard 7-day Split sailing itinerary including world-famous islands in Croatia Vis, Hvar, Korčula and Brač. Besides of being the most visited yacht charter location of Croatia it is also considered safest with an easy eye-of-sight navigation between largest Dalmatian islands.
Even experienced sailors must be careful of dense maritime traffic and speedboats transferring day visitors to famous Hvar beaches and blue caves. If you wish less crowded route then follow a alternative Split sailing itinerary with more peaceful locations and tranquil atmosphere.
This unique route allows you to discover peaceful anchorages and island ports on less visited parts of Hvar and Brač, but also some must-see islands and historic towns. Here you can relax and enjoy in solitude and seclusion anchoring in isolated coves and exploring lonely beaches. If you own a adequate sailing certificate Split sailing charter is ideal starting location for a beginner wishing to independently rent a bareboat yacht in Croatia.
PULA SAILING TRIPS
Diverse northern Adriatic with Istria peninsula and Kvarner gulf is definitively best kept secret among the sailing routes of Croatia. Being so close to Italy, this region fusses together a distinguished Italian charm spiced up with a twist of a laid-back Mediterranean pulse. Here you have the opportunity to discover charming Venetian towns Rovinj, Vrsar and Poreč where you can blend into their buzzing promenades. The perfect getaway from cosmopolitan feel is Brioni national park at a doorstep of Pula. Even more seclusion and intact nature you can expect on mosty uninhabited islands and less-visited bays of remote Kvarner bay. Renting a sailboat in Pula which is this region's capital, will allow you to sail across one of the most diverse sailing grounds of Croatia.
Explore the wonderful island of captains Mali Lošinj, discover turquoise waters of Silba or visit peaceful village on Unije island. Take the advantage of crystal-clear waters for various water sports, snorkelling or swimming. Istria is world-known of impressive historic sites, great recreational grounds, water attractions, notorious summer festivals and amazing food delicacies based on wild truffles and best wines of Croatia called Malvazija.
ZADAR & KORNATI SAILING EXPERIENCE
Densely scattered islands of Zadar archipelago are a paradise for sailing inclined. Northern Dalmatia is crisscrossed by numerous modern marinas and premium sailing destinations from where you can rent yachts in Croatia. Begin your sailing week in UNESCO world heritage site Šibenik or start Croatia sailing holidays from second largest Dalmatian city Zadar. Both destinations are close to Zadar airoprt and ideal starting places to discover iconic Kornati national park or sail upriver to Krka national park.
Zadar-Sibenik archipelago with Kornat is densest group of islands in the Med. which makes this region among safest island hoping areas in the word. For a day sailor it might be challeging to navigate between near 500 tiny islands and reefs, that is why a skippered Zadar yacht charter will provide the best of a sailing experience in centrak Adriatic. Kornati islands are also something of a gourmet's paradise and hiring a Croatian skipper is your best opportunity to receive some first-hand tips on where to eat fresh, local and tasty.
DUBROVNIK SAILING ITINERARIES
Stone-walled medieval city of Dubrovnik is the capital of southern Dalmatia and so much more then just a "Game of Thrones" setting. It is a great location from where you can set sail and discover south Adriatic islands. This remote archipelago is full of culture, history, unspoiled natural beauties and a unique landscape diversity. The airport is just a half an hour drive from marina ACI Dubrovnik where your yachting adventure starts.
South Dalmatian islands Korčula, Mljet and Lastovo are the ultimate getaways from metropolis. Just one hour sail up north, lie sub-tropical Elafiti islands. Soothing dry climate and a relaxing natural environment of dense forested Šipan is a welcoming twist from the busy streets of Dubrovnik. Stunning green lakes and clear waters within national park Mljet is breathtaking. From here you can sail even further and discover remote Lastovo national park, considered a true gurment paradise far from the standard Adriatic charter routes. If you want to secure your charter holidays in Dubrovnik consider booking your yacht in Croatia fist minute and early enough to find best boats and catamarans in Dubrovnik available.
WHEN TO GO SAILING?
Sailing season in Croatia stretches from early May until late October, but July and August are definitively Best months to sail Croatia for a beginner. High summer in Croatia is ideal period for a family sailing trip a honeymoon cruise while experienced crews search more adrenaline in off season.
Although yacht rental prices in Croatia during the summer season are highest, you can expect a indulging yachting adventure with unforgettable holiday momnents. Summertime at the Adriatic coast is simply glorious. Croatian islands are literally soaking in sun. With dry climate, light winds cooling daily heat, warm sea temperatures perfect for various water activities and the coastal promenades are in full swing. Crowds are almost impossible to avoid in these months especially in August when Italians are crossing Adriatic sea with motor boats and you can hardly find a free place to moor in more popular island ports. So get to your location earlier or reserve your mooring beforehand.
In southern Dalmatia expect less marine traffic during August. So sailing trip in Dubrovnik in late July and August could be a good choice. While in June and July Zadar region and northern Croatia is where you should start your trip. Experienced skipper will know how to avoid crowded areas and recommend best places to visit during your charter week in Croatia.
Sailing in Croatia in June or even late May is the time for more sailing inclined groups searching for more adventurous Croatia yacht vacation experience. This is the period with longest days, dry and not too hot weather and you can always find a free berth or place in a restaurant. Also ideal months for flotilla yacht holiday events. Or book a last minute yacht charter in Croatia and begin your sailing odyssey in September when you can still catch lots of summer vibe down the Dalmatian cost.
If you wish to take the advantage on affordable yacht charter prices then book your sailing vacations in May, September or even October. The water is still warm enough for a quick swim and moderate winds provide pleasurable sailing conditions.
Less marine traffic in off season is an excellent opportunity to discover all the popular sailing destinations at a relaxing Mediterranean pace. Serious sailors who prefer more challenging conditions will find extra sailing pleasures Easter time and all through October when Adriatic regattas begin.
HARBOURS & MARINAS
There are more than 50 marinas in Croatia from where you can charter yachts in Croatia and start your sailing odyssey. The itinerary on Croatia private yacht charters is completely flexible and can be easily adjusted with your skipper before and during your journey. Where and how you want to spend your nights during your week, generally depends on the weather conditions and the level of the comfort you need.
Do I choose a quiet village port, modern marina or spend a night on anchor?
A mixture of above options gives the best balance through the week for most sailors. Anchoring in Croatia is still free of charge. There is nothing like spending a calm night on anchor being lulled to sleep surrounded by lush-green vegetation and crisp-blue seas, where you can take a swim in the morning calm. In such anchorages, you mostly depend on your tender to transfer you ashore. Supply your yacht a day earlier, because you probably won't find any shops there.
Buoy anchorages are considered safer and at a reasonable price. Simply secure your sailing yacht by attaching the mooring ropes to a buoy and enjoy your evening in a gentle swing of your yacht. It is considered more environmental from anchoring for it is preventing your anchor plough the seaweed and destroying underwater flora.
In some coves you can find charming fisherman's houses. Here you can safely moor on a private pontoon or a buoy in front of the restaurant. Sometimes these floating docks come with electrical power. Local skippers know these places and will be happy to secure your reservation. It is an excellent opportunity to safely dock your sailboat and taste fresh, local and authentic food delicacies. North Dalmatian islands with Kornati national park, Šolta, Hvar, Lastovo and Mljet is where you'll will find best ones.
If bad wether is forecasted and you need fresh water refill, shore power, toilet and bathroom facilities then spend an evening in a modern marina. ACI marinas are generally more expensive, but you'll be moored on lazy lines and protected by a breakwater that reduces the motion of the boat to a very gentle sway. If you are lucky you won't be squeezed in a tight space between two loud party boats.
If you moor in a local port or a harbour makes best balance for most yacht charters in Croatia. As soon as you secure your boat to the town pier you are already a part its buzzing coastal promenade. This is an excellent chance to stretch your legs, explore town's culture and history or visit world class restaurants in the area. Multitude of services like lazy-line mooring, shore power, water and sometimes toilet facilities are included in the price.
What are The marina costs in Croatia?
- Local ports between 60€ & 90€ per night for a 45 foot sailboat. You can add extra 50 -100% for sailing catamarans.
- ACI marinas between 100 and 150€
- Buoy charge ranges from 30 and 60€
WEATHER & MOORINGS
Croatian Adriatic has practically no tidal difference, while currents hardly reach 2 knots in narrow passages between the islands. Weather during the charter season is pretty much the same as everywhere else in the east Mediterranean (Italy, Greece). That is why expect relatively dry weather during the summer season in Croatia, though you might encounter an isolated thunderstorm roughing up the sea.
The cooling westerly Maestral wind is prevailing. Blowing from the sea and picking up in the afternoon when the sun heats up the continental parts. When the wind direction follows the sun is always good sign predicting stable and calm weather. Stay alert and beware of the mighty BURA winds coming from the coastal mountain chain. That is when the conditions at sea are too dangerous and maritime traffic is banned.
The forecast is issued every 6 hours on VHF channels in different frequencies that your skipper will monitor all the time. While you can check daily reports for Adriatic on a detailed weather forecasts issued by national Meteorological and Hidrological app DHMZ in English, German and Italian language.
Croatian marinas practice so called Mediterranean method of docking in reverse, mostly because the floating pontoons are almost at the sea level so it's more practical to get on and off your yacht. Expect little less privacy in cocpit, but you can always overnight on a buoy, and hope for a friendly neighbor. Docking in a marina is your skipper's duty, but a helping pair of hands is always welcome. 2-lined system of bow mooring lines fixes the whole yacht to a floating pontoon with 2 extra docking lines at stern.
The whole procedure, however can be quite handful in more challenging weather conditions. That is why is very important to first tie the windward side of the sailboat.
So, heading in backwards, someone stands at the back with a boat hook, picks up the raised rope, walks with it along to the front of the boat, pulls it from the water and secures it to the cleat on the front. Meanwhile someone needs to cast 2 docking lines to the port manager and secure the stern. Don't worry if you make a mistake, your skipper will take charge so everything and everyone is safe and secure. Read more about safety at sea in a Boating Safety Guide.
8 PRACTICAL TIPS
1. Book your yacht holidays early
Take the advantage of first minute prices on bareboat charters in Croatia and book your boat early with a reliable yacht charter agency or a charter broker. Most boats and skippered yachts are still available in preseason so you can choose among a wide range of charters from budget yachts to luxury catamarans.
Check with your agent for the exact cost for a sailing holiday and beforehand specify what you wish to have included on board (Wi-fi, SUP, Hostess, Cook, Water toys,...). Crewed yacht charters already come with multitude of onboard inclusions. Don't let the unexpected costs surprise you. Best skippers in Croatia get booked early, so hurry up and rather book first minute yacht charter in Croatia.
2. Hire a Sailboat or Catamaran
Motor yachts are definitively faster then catamarans or sailboats, but if you are ecologically oriented, and prefer smooth sailing over noisy motoring rather go for sailing charters. Although wide catamarans assure more privacy and space on board, sailing experience on a sailing boat is definitively more authentic and fun. Plus a sailboat needs less wind to get moving. Croatia catamaran charter might bring higher overall costsbut you will get to enjoy exclusivity and onboard comfort. However, newer yacht models provide surprisingly spacious cockpit and interior with impressive volumes.
Renting a sailboat in Croatia with 4 cabins, suitable for a group of 6 will cost you between 3.500€ and 4.500€ within the summer season. In June and September on average 3.000€. Skipper is not included in the above price and is paid at spot (180 to 250€ per day)
The average price of a Croatia catamaran rental is between 5.500 and 6.500 euros per week within the high season months July and August. Shoulder season (June, September) between 3.500€ and 5.000€ per week.
3. Book sailing trip in summer months
High summer on Adriatic might be busy, but the weather is simply glorious. Best time to sail Croatia for a beginner are months June July and August . Though it might get crowded in marinas and restaurants, you can always find a quiet place to moor if you avoid the popular places and tourist dense locations. Check the weather before departure and pack accordingly.
4. One-week sailing trip is recommended
During the summer months, you can only charter sailing yachts and catamarans in Croatia in weekly periods starting and ending Saturdays. Short cruises can only be arranged for 3-5 days in the off season. If you really wish to experience true hearbeat of this magnificent country 7-day Croatia sailing trip makes best balance for a relaxing cruising holiday.
5. Keep things simple
Don't over pack and rather bring soft duffel bag instead of a hard suitcase. Here you can find some tips on what to pack for a sailing trip. Double cabins in a sailboat or catamaran are bright and spacious, but they can get uncomfortable when 2 large suitcases are blocking your passage.
6. Check in and check out
Please stick to your check in hours from the "boarding pass" received in advance. Your yacht charter should be prepared and cleaned before your embarkation at 16 PM. There are tidy beaches close to every marina where you can refresh. Check out is usually after 9 AM the next Saturday. It is expected to return your boat to marina by Friday evening for underwater inspection.
7. Keep daily sailing distances small
For a beginner or a day sailor is recommended to keep the routes within 30-mile distance (max. 4 - 5 hours sailing per day). If you feel inexperienced, adjust your sailing skills to the conditions at sea so that everybody will feel safe. It is impossible to visit all the best spots within a week, so take enough time to enjoy and make your holiday moments count. During morning calm rather swim and chill while waiting for afternoon winds. If you don't own adequate sailing license or feel insecure to independently sail unfamiliar Adriatic seas rather hire a skippered Croatia charter .
8. Rationalise your provisions
Fill the boat lockers with enough food and supplies at least for the first 2 days. Grocery is cheaper to buy in markets outside marinas. Sometimes charter companies in Croatia provide services that supply your boat in advance. Remote islands might have limited supply, but you can always buy the basics. Bring enough bottled water and don't forget paper towels, garbage bags, toilet paper, sponges, washing liquid, bread, various snacks.
