Sailing in Croatia: A Guide For First Timers

New to sailing? Let CKIM Group Inc. make your first sailing trip worry-free. We specialize in crewed yacht vacations in stunning destinations like Croatia and other parts of the world. Whether you prefer a monohull or a catamaran, sailing in Croatia offers a unique and lasting experience.

Setting sail for the first time is exciting, but there are a few important things to consider. Discover which type of yacht is best for you, places to visit, and things to do.

What is sailing like in Croatia?

Chartering a yacht in Croatia offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Imagine cruising through clear blue waters, exploring historic towns, and discovering hidden gems. A motor sailer is a popular choice for a yacht charter in Croatia, ideal for navigating the beautiful coastline.

As you sail along the Croatian coast, you’ll discover secluded bays and immerse yourself in the deep blue Adriatic Sea. A private yacht allows you to dive into turquoise waters and relax on the top deck, soaking up the sun. Off the boat, exploring the charming seaside towns provides a delightful way to immerse yourself in Croatia’s rich culture and tradition.

How to Choose the Right Boat?

Choosing the right yacht for your Croatian vacation depends on your needs. First, think about who you’re traveling with. Are there kids on board? If so, a catamaran might be the ideal choice, as it offers a more family-friendly experience.

For a larger group, a motor yacht is the ideal choice. It offers ample space and luxurious amenities, making every moment aboard a pleasure. Plus, some yachts even feature scuba diving opportunities, adding an extra layer of adventure to your voyage.

At CKIM, we make chartering your first yacht easy by matching it to your budget and needs.

Sailing in Croatia | Your Yacht Options

Motor Sailer

A motor sailer is a type of yacht that combines the power of an engine with the elegance of sails. Ideal for long-distance voyages, it ensures you’re not solely dependent on wind conditions. With spacious cabins and dining and lounging areas, a motor sailer offers a comfortable experience on board.

Power Catamaran

To explore Croatia’s top sailing spots more quickly, a power catamaran is a great choice. Unlike sailboats, it uses engine power alone, making it faster to hop from one island to another. Additionally, its two hulls offer more space inside for guests and provide a smoother, more stable ride.

Sailing Catamaran

Exploring Croatia under sails lets you feel the gentle breeze and the refreshing splash of waves. One of the popular choices for chartering in Croatia is the sailing catamaran. Its dual-hull design offers spacious interiors and superior stability on the water, making it perfect for first-time sailors.

Sailboat

Sailboats, or monohulls, feature a single hull and one or more sails that harness the wind to propel the boat forward. They offer a classic and exhilarating sailing experience. As the wind presses against the sails, the boat tilts, adding a thrilling dynamic to your voyage.

Motor Yacht

Motor yachts offer the perfect setting for a luxurious sailing vacation in Croatia. Picture yourself savoring a cocktail on the flybridge or basking in the sun on the aft deck, all while taking in the stunning Croatian coastline. These yachts are also ideal for larger groups. Plus, a professional crew will cater to every need, from navigation and meals to maintenance.

How much does a Croatia Yacht Charter cost?

Many factors influence the cost of sailing in Croatia. These includes the type of yacht, the season, the duration of the charter, and the level of luxury the boat offers. At CKIM, we’ll discuss all the expenses associated with your trip.

Prices are generally higher during the peak season (July and August), ranging from €10,000 to $100,000 or more per week, depending on your preferences.

“Plus-expenses” charters don’t include VAT and APA. Other costs include fuel, a 10 – 15% crew tip, food, drinks, harbor fees, dockage and any onshore activities arranged onbehalf of the client.

What’s the best time to sail in Croatia?

Sailing in Croatia | Climate and Weather

Understanding the weather conditions is crucial when adding Croatia to your sailing routes. Croatia enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers.

Sailing in Croatia | Best Time for a Yacht Charter

The best time to visit Croatia is in May, June, September, and October, when the weather is cooler, there are less boats and people, and the charter rates are lower. You can also enjoy more hiking and onshore activities in the cooler conditions. The peak sailing season, however, is in July and August, which brings hot weather, more people and higher rates.

Croatia’s Popular Sailing Destinations

Croatia, along the beautiful Mediterranean coast, is a place where natural beauty, history, and lively culture come together. With over 1,000 islands, sailing in Croatia offers endless opportunities for breathtaking, Instagram-worthy views. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a romantic honeymoon, Croatia deserves a spot on your bucket list.

Some of the beautiful regions to visit are the following:

The Dalmatian Coast

Sailing the Dalmatian Coast offers calm waters, historic towns, and breathtaking landscapes. Stretching from Split to the north and Dubrovnik to the south. Here are some reasons why you shouldn’t miss Dalmatia when sailing in Croatia:

• Dalmatia is known for its beautiful bays set against a lush backdrop.
• Island-hopping is a fun activity here, offering everything from discovering national parks to visiting fishing villages.
• The food and wine scene is incredible.
• You can explore many historical places, including Roman palaces and stunning architecture.

Istria

This heart-shaped region features charming towns and a rich culinary heritage. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches and enjoy a lively nightlife. The island will also delight your palate with its Italian and Mediterranean cuisines.

Notable marinas, such as ACI Marina Rovinj and ACI Marina Pomer, offer a variety of services for every yacht charter. Moreover, Istria is an ideal starting and ending point for your charter vacation, with its popular anchorages.

Kvarner & Primorje

Set sail through two beautiful regions along the Croatian coast. Kvarner is full of natural charm, with hidden coves and colorful hillsides to explore. It’s perfect for water activities like snorkeling and diving. Plus, you’ll find historical landmarks with amazing panoramic views.

Explore other captivating islands, like Krk, Cres, Ilovik, Rijeka, Rab, and Losinj.

Things To Do When Sailing in Croatia

Croatia Yacht Charter offers an awe-inspiring journey for every traveler. Each island has its own unique charm, from historic towns to pristine beaches. So, where should you start?

Beaches in Croatia are worth exploring by sailboat, with plenty of options ranging from Istria to Dubrovnik. You can swim on pristine white pebble shores framed by lush greenery, or windsurf along the favorable winds of Brac Island and master new tricks. Additionally, there are family-friendly beaches and vibrant nightlife to enjoy.

Wine tasting is another enjoyable activity in Croatia, particularly in the Istria and South Dalmatia regions. Many charterers take pleasure in savoring Croatian wines.

For nature lovers, sailing in Croatia provides many outdoor activities. You’ll be immersed in stunning landscapes, whether hiking trails, natural parks, or the sea. Kayaking and cycling are among the many adventures that await you.

CKIM’s Curated Sample Croatia Sailing Itineraries Just for You

Here is an example of an 8-day, 7-night sailing itinerary from Dubrovnik to Split:

Arrival in Dubrovnik

• Explore the Old Town, walk the ancient city walls, and soak in the Adriatic views.
• Visit the iconic filming location of the Game of Thrones.
• Indulge in culinary delights on board.

Sail to Mljet Island

• Enjoy the natural beauty of Mljet Island, covered by lush forests and small villages.
• Swim in the saltwater lakes, such as the Malo Jezero and Veliko Jezero.
• Anchor the yacht in Polace Bay.

Mljet Island to Korčula

• Stroll through the charming streets of Korčula Town.
• Relax on secluded beaches.
• Savor dinner by the sea.

Vis Island

• It’s a former military base, where you’ll see old canons on top of the hill.
• Sample local wines in Vis Town.
• Scuba dive in one of the best diving spots.
• Visit the Blue Cave, a hidden gem an hour away from Vis.

Hvar Adventures

• Explore Hvar’s old town, revealing the island’s history.
• Enjoy a lively nightlife.
• Discover olive groves and more vineyard fields in Hvar.

Brač Island

• Swim, sunbathe, and explore the picturesque coastline.
• The island’s crystal-clear waters is perfect for various water activities.

Kornati Island

• Sail, snorkel, and enjoy the views of Kornati Island.
• Explore the national park.

Arrival in Split

• Discover Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Bid farewell to Croatia.

Or, set sail on a unique nautical adventure with one of these tailored sailing routes in Croatia:

• Split to Dubrovnik
• Split to Split
• Split to Zadar to Split
• Rovinj to Split

If your dream destinations aren’t on the list, ILX Travel’s travel advisors will craft a personalized itinerary just for you.

Sailing in Croatia | Booking Process

With CKIM Group Inc., you’ll have dedicated yacht charter brokers to guide you. We’ll help you secure your charter well in advance, especially during peak months. Here’s how to book your first sailing yacht:

1. Contact CKIM Group Inc., and the team will send you a brochure. Please provide the following details to help us tailor your charter experience:
   • Your preferred travel dates
   • Destinations you wish to explore
   • Preferred activities both on and off board
   • Number of guests
   • Budget range
   • Any previous charter history
   • Your yacht preferences
2. Book an appointment to discuss your charter preferences.
3. Review the charter proposal, including yacht options, sample itineraries, and costs. Then, choose your yacht.
4. Sign the charter agreement, pay the deposit, and complete the preference forms to be sent to your Captain. In addition, we recommend purchasing a travel insurance.
5. Access your vacation summary through the Axus Travel App.
6. The crew will arrange an introductory call, while the charter brokers will set up a pre-departure call.
7. Enjoy your holiday in Croatia!

FAQ about Sailing in Croatia

What are the must-visit islands?

There are countless destinations to explore on a charter in Croatia, including Hvar, Split, Dubrovnik, and many others.

What types of yacht charters are available in Croatia?

Travelers can choose between a bareboat and a crewed yacht charter. However, a sailing license is required to charter a bareboat in Croatia. If you lack sailing experience, cruising with a crew is the best solution.

Where can I charter a yacht for Croatian adventure?

The CKIM Group Inc. is a charter brokerage company that arranges crewed yacht vacations. Our team of luxury travel experts helps you choose the right yacht and create a custom itinerary just for you.