Croatia
Croatia: Over 1,185 islands to explore
The Adriatic coastline with its clear seas, gentle summer climate, quaint villages and historic towns, is a magnificent sailing area. Croatia is now Europe's leading yacht charter destination. Sailors are attracted by the diversity Croatia offers alongside its ability to create long lasting memories.
Croatia has an amazing 3625 miles of coastline, 2520 miles of which belongs to islands, cliffs and reefs. There are 1,185 islands in the Adriatic but only about 50 of them are populated. This makes for a glorious sailing holiday, with short-hop itineraries offering not only a surprising variety from port to port, but also the opportunity to visit islands and beaches that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Croatia - The perfect place to charter?
Consider the contrasts... Quiet bays or exciting nightlife, traditional markets and modern supermarkets, gentle morning breezes followed by exhilerating afternoon sea breezes, modern marinas next to century old town quays, metropolitan meccas versus marine national parks. Sailing in Croatia (as the cliché goes) has something for everyone.
Exploring the Dalmatian & Kornati coastline...
The 5,835km coastline is sheltered by chains of over 1,185 islands, amongst which offer thousands of safe anchorages and harbours during your sail. Along the coast you can find isolated moorings, as well as modern and well equipped marinas.
Croatia has an abundance of hidden bays, beaches, cliffs, emerald coves and fantastic diving opportunities. You can start your Croatia sailing holiday from either Pula, which is located on the Istrian coast; from Zadar or Split, cities in the middle of the Dalmatian coast; or Dubrovnik, the historic city in Southern Croatia.
Our Sailing Bases in Croatia
Here is an overview of all the places you can sail with us from along the Croatia Coastline. Whether you want a beautifully tranquil break cruising the Kornati Islands from Biograd, or a base that will have you within cork popping distance of the party town Hvar in mere minutes, we can help you out.
• Split
• Dubrovnik
• Kornati
• Zadar
The best sailing areas for your crew
| Sailing Region | Experience Level | Wind Force | The highlights... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dalmatian Islands | Easy Sailing | 4-6 | Trogir & Split |
| Dubrovnik | Easy Sailing | 4-6 | Dubrovnik Old Town & Korcula |
| Kornati Islands | Easy Sailing | 4-6 | National Park & Vrgada |
Travelling to Croatia
Flight transfers in Croatia are quick and convenient. From Split Airport, transfers take 15–30 minutes. Dubrovnik Airport to Dubrovnik Marina takes 30 minutes. From Zadar Airport, transfers range from 15 minutes (Sukosan) to 1 hour (Sibenik), with Biograd and Zadar town taking 40 and 20 minutes respectively.
What is the weather like for sailing?
Croatia enjoys a sunny Mediterranean climate with hot summers (around 30°C in July/August) and mild winters. Expect around 2,600 hours of sunshine annually. Winds average 7–8 knots from the northwest, occasionally reaching Force 4–5 (10–20 knots). Watch out for the strong north-easterly ‘Bora’ wind, which can arrive unexpectedly.
Marina Fees in Croatia
Unlike Greece, marina and port fees apply when sailing in Croatia. Costs vary based on yacht size and location, typically ranging from £20 to £100 per night. These fees include helpful port staff, shore toilets, showers, and access to water and electricity on the quay.
