Sailing the Southern Adriatic: The Ultimate 8-Day Kotor to Trogir Yacht Charter Journey

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day yacht charter adventure from Montenegro’s stunning Bay of Kotor to Croatia’s historic Trogir. This exceptional Mediterranean journey takes you through some of the most breathtaking coastlines in Europe, combining unspoiled natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. From the dramatic fjord-like landscapes of Kotor to the medieval splendor of Trogir, this itinerary showcases the very best of the southern Adriatic Sea.

Day 1: Kotor to Cavtat (35 NM)

Morning: Departing from Kotor’s Magnificent Bay

Begin your Adriatic odyssey in the UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor, one of the most stunning natural harbors in the Mediterranean. Before setting sail, take time to explore Kotor’s medieval Old Town with its impressive city walls climbing the steep mountainside. The intricate maze of narrow streets, charming squares, and ancient churches offers a glimpse into centuries of Venetian influence.

As you depart, the spectacular views of the bay unfold before you—towering limestone cliffs plunging into deep blue waters create a fjord-like landscape unique to this part of the Adriatic. Sailing out of the bay offers breathtaking photo opportunities of the surrounding mountains and waterfront villages.

Afternoon: Crossing to Cavtat, Croatia

After clearing customs at the Croatia-Montenegro border, continue your journey northward to Cavtat, the southernmost Croatian resort town. This picturesque settlement sits on a wooded peninsula with a beautiful seafront promenade lined with palm trees and Mediterranean vegetation.

Dock in Cavtat’s protected harbor and explore this charming town that was once the Greek settlement of Epidaurum. Visit the Racić Mausoleum designed by famous sculptor Ivan Meštrović, stroll through the Renaissance Rector’s Palace, or relax at one of the waterfront cafés. The town’s restaurants offer excellent local cuisine, including fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen.

Day 2: Cavtat to Lopud (15 NM)

Morning: A Leisurely Sail to the Elaphiti Islands

After breakfast, set course for the Elaphiti Islands, a small archipelago northwest of Dubrovnik. The short sailing distance today allows for a relaxed pace and time to enjoy swimming stops along the way. As you sail, enjoy magnificent views of Dubrovnik’s distinctive city walls in the distance.

Afternoon: Discovering Car-Free Lopud Island

Arrive at Lopud, the second largest of the Elaphiti Islands and a peaceful haven with no cars allowed. The island’s main settlement features a charming waterfront promenade with palm trees and historic stone houses. Dock in the main harbor or anchor in the bay.

Explore the ruins of the 15th-century Franciscan monastery and the Đorđić-Mayneri park with its exotic plants. Don’t miss Šunj Beach, one of Croatia’s few sandy beaches, located on the other side of the island—a 20-minute walk through pine forests or a short taxi-golf cart ride. The beach’s shallow waters make it perfect for families and relaxation.

Day 3: Lopud to Mljet (25 NM)

Morning: Sailing South to Mljet National Park

Depart Lopud and sail southward to Mljet, often called Croatia’s greenest island. The journey takes you through the channel between the mainland and the Elaphiti Islands, offering stunning views of the rugged coastline and the open Adriatic Sea.

Afternoon: Exploring Mljet’s Natural Wonders

Arrive at Mljet National Park, which covers the island’s northwestern third. The park is famous for its two saltwater lakes—Veliko and Malo Jezero (Large and Small Lake)—connected to the sea by a narrow channel. Dock at Pomena or Polače, the two main entry points to the national park.

Rent bicycles to explore the park’s well-maintained paths or take a small boat to visit the tiny island of St. Mary in the middle of Veliko Jezero, home to a 12th-century Benedictine monastery. The island’s dense pine forests provide welcome shade on hot summer days, and the lakes offer warmer swimming temperatures than the open sea. Evening brings tranquility to this natural paradise, with excellent seafood restaurants in both Pomena and Polače.

Day 4: Mljet to Korčula (15 NM)

Morning: A Scenic Sail Along Mljet’s Coastline

After enjoying the morning tranquility of Mljet, set sail for Korčula, reputed birthplace of Marco Polo. The relatively short distance allows time for stops along Mljet’s northern coastline, where secluded coves with crystal-clear waters invite swimming and snorkeling.

Afternoon: Arriving in Medieval Korčula Town

Approaching Korčula Town, you’ll be struck by its impressive medieval walls and distinctive herringbone street pattern designed to provide shelter from the wind while allowing air circulation. The town sits on a small peninsula, with its defensive walls rising directly from the sea.

Dock at ACI Marina Korčula or anchor in the bay, then explore this magnificent medieval town often called “Little Dubrovnik.” Visit the alleged birthplace of Marco Polo, climb the bell tower of St. Mark’s Cathedral for panoramic views, or watch the traditional Moreška sword dance performed during summer evenings. The town’s narrow streets are lined with excellent restaurants, wine bars serving local Pošip and Grk wines, and shops selling local crafts.

Day 5: Korčula to Hvar (35 NM)

Morning: Crossing the Pelješac Channel

Set sail from Korčula toward Hvar, one of Croatia’s most popular islands. The journey takes you across the Pelješac Channel, with the long Pelješac Peninsula to your right and the island of Hvar ahead. This stretch offers excellent sailing conditions, particularly in the morning hours.

Afternoon: Experiencing Glamorous Hvar Town

Arrive at Hvar Town, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful architecture. The harbor is often busy in high season, so arriving early is advisable. Alternatively, anchor in the nearby Pakleni Islands and take a water taxi to town.

Explore Hvar’s magnificent main square, the largest in Dalmatia, dominated by the Renaissance St. Stephen’s Cathedral and surrounded by elegant palaces. Climb to the Fortica (Spanish Fortress) for spectacular views of the town and the Pakleni archipelago. In the evening, Hvar comes alive with its famous nightlife, offering everything from sophisticated cocktail bars to lively nightclubs. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy dinner at one of the excellent restaurants in the old town’s narrow streets.

Day 6: Hvar to Vis (20 NM)

Morning: Sailing to Croatia’s Most Remote Island

Depart Hvar and set course for Vis, the furthest inhabited Croatian island from the mainland. Until 1989, Vis was a military base closed to foreign visitors, which helped preserve its authentic charm and unspoiled nature. The sail provides beautiful views of Hvar’s southern coast and the open Adriatic.

Afternoon: Discovering Vis’s Unique Heritage

Arrive at Vis Town on the island’s northeastern coast, a charming settlement built around a wide bay. Alternatively, sail to Komiža on the western coast, a traditional fishing village with narrow streets and stone houses.

Vis offers a glimpse into authentic Dalmatian island life, with fewer tourists than neighboring islands. Explore the ancient Greek and Roman ruins, visit the Archaeological Museum housed in a 19th-century Austrian fortress, or tour the military tunnels built during Yugoslavia’s Socialist era. The island is also known for its excellent local wines, particularly Vugava and Plavac Mali, which you can sample at local wineries or konobas (traditional restaurants).

Day 7: Vis to Šolta (25 NM)

Morning: Sailing Through the Central Dalmatian Islands

After experiencing Vis’s remote beauty, set sail for Šolta, an island less frequented by tourists despite its proximity to Split. The journey takes you through the central Dalmatian archipelago, with opportunities to stop at small islets or secluded bays for swimming and lunch.

Afternoon: Arriving at Charming Šolta

Dock at Maslinica, a picturesque fishing village on Šolta’s western coast, or Rogač, the island’s main port. Šolta offers a more relaxed atmosphere than its famous neighbors, with authentic villages, olive groves, and vineyards.

Explore Maslinica’s elegant Martinis Marchi castle, now a heritage hotel, or visit the traditional inland villages of Grohote and Gornje Selo to experience local life. The island is known for its excellent olive oil and honey, which you can purchase directly from local producers. In the evening, enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants while watching the sunset over the Adriatic.

Day 8: Šolta to Trogir (10 NM)

Morning: The Final Leg to Historic Trogir

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting sail for Trogir. This short journey allows time for a last swimming stop in one of the bays along Šolta’s northern coast or at the nearby Drvenik islands.

Afternoon: Exploring UNESCO-Protected Trogir

Arrive at Trogir, a remarkable medieval town situated on a small island connected to the mainland by bridges. Dock at the town quay or at ACI Marina Trogir across the channel. Trogir’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with an exceptional concentration of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture.

Explore the labyrinth of narrow streets lined with stone houses, visit the magnificent St. Lawrence Cathedral with its famous Portal of Radovan, and stroll along the seaside promenade. The town’s compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot, with numerous cafés, restaurants, and ice cream shops offering refreshment stops. Trogir provides a fitting end to your Adriatic sailing adventure, combining historical richness with a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.

Planning Your Kotor to Trogir Yacht Charter

When to Go

The peak sailing season runs from June to September, with July and August offering the warmest temperatures but also the busiest marinas. May, early June, and late September provide excellent sailing conditions with fewer crowds and more berth availability.

Charter Options

Choose from bareboat charters for experienced sailors, skippered yachts for those wanting local expertise, or fully crewed luxury vessels for a complete pampered experience. This route crosses an international border, so ensure your charter company has arranged the necessary paperwork.

Navigation Notes

The southern Adriatic generally offers excellent sailing conditions, though the summer afternoon Maestral wind can create choppy conditions. The area is well-marked with good navigational aids, but local knowledge is valuable for finding the best anchorages and avoiding crowded harbors.

Essential Experiences

Don’t miss these highlights along your journey:

• Swimming in the Blue Cave on Biševo Island (accessible from Vis)
• Wine tasting at a family-run winery on Korčula or Vis
• Fresh seafood at waterfront konobas
• Exploring Mljet’s saltwater lakes
• Watching sunset from Hvar’s Spanish Fortress
• Discovering hidden military tunnels on Vis
• Sampling local olive oil and honey on Šolta

This Kotor to Trogir route offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic Mediterranean experiences. From Montenegro’s dramatic mountains to Croatia’s historic towns and idyllic islands, your 8-day sailing adventure captures the essence of the southern Adriatic’s timeless appeal.