How to Charter in Croatia
With 1,200+ islands and islets to discover off the Dalmatian coast, Croatia is the perfect charter holiday playground writes Sue Pelling.
Part of Croatia’s charm and attraction is the fact there are oodles of beautiful places to visit by yacht, including unspoilt islands and National Parks, and a wealthy mix of secluded anchorages and modern marinas to choose from. With over 3,000 miles of stunning coastline to explore, Croatia is one of the most favoured charter holiday destinations.
Its uncrowded anchorages, a reliable climate for all levels of sailing ability, and fascinating history and culture to discover, adds to its appeal plus, its location in the Adriatic Sea opposite the eastern coastline of Italy and its border countries of the Balkan Peninsula (Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania), also means it’s convenient in terms of travel from the UK. This short haul flight of approximately two and a half hours from Gatwick to Split makes it an ideal choice particularly for those travelling with young children and/or older family members.
The charter holiday season in Croatia typically runs from May to early October and, because it is further north than other parts of the Mediterranean, the temperature is generally not quite so intense, with average temperatures from April to May between 22°C to 28°C. June to August are the hottest months with temperatures up to 30°C, so expect sunny, blue skies nearly every day.
Sailing conditions couldn’t be better either because the northwesterlies or south-southeasterlies (in local terms the Bora and the Jugo) generally run up and down the Adriatic, and are variable, which means there is something to suit all abilities. Also, Croatia is known for its ‘line of sight’ navigation with lots of short hops between islands and anchorages making it ideal if you are less experienced.
Silver Sail, which operates from four prime locations along the Adriatic coast – Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar, and Pula – all which all offer convenient access to numerous sailing routes, has recognised a strong demand for skippered and crewed charters. Lovor Ljubić – director at Silver Sail says: “Croatia remains a premier sailing destination, blending breath-taking landscapes with world-class sailing conditions. This year, we’re seeing an increasing number of guests seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, from hidden bays to traditional Dalmatian villages, making every journey a truly unique experience.”
Commenting on his recommended anchorage, Ljubić added “On favourable weather days, Porat Bay on Biševo Island is my favourite. Its sandy beach, with crystal-clear sea, and tranquil setting make it a perfect anchorage for relaxation after exploring the famous Blue Cave.”
Like Silver Sail and most other charter companies in Croatia, Plain Sailing has bases in Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar, Pula, as well as Biograd, and it will soon be adding Sibenik to its list.
Despite its popular location, Adi Tognarelli (Co-Founder, Plain Sailing) said Croatia had a tough 2024: “The higher prices made it less competitive against Greece (especially when the marina fees are factored in) but it is now having a resurgence in 2025, helped by better early-bird rates and a growing flexibility that means you can start your charter on days other than Saturday – helping to avoid those frustrating Saturday afternoon waits on the way out, and dreaded fuel queue on the Friday return!”
Commenting on a favourite anchorage, Tognarelli said: “You can’t beat an afternoon spent in the pretty Vinogradiske bay in the Pakleni islands, on the way towards Hvar – grab a mooring buoy in the early afternoon and then swim to one of the many cocktail bars and restaurants around the bay to watch the sun go down and party the night away.”
Other places not to miss when it comes to culture include Dubrovnik’s Old Town, which is home to one of the world’s 10 best-preserved medieval walled cities. It also has some beautiful beaches and offers stunning mountain-top views.
Although Sailing Holidays doesn’t operate from any particular base in Croatia, the company runs bareboat charters there, acting as agents through dedicated charter companies. Ivan Fircks Yacht Charter Manager at Sailing Holidays said “Croatia is popular because it strikes an extraordinary balance: a well-organised cruising destination with a laid-back atmosphere. The marinas and apps make logistics seamless, while the islands themselves offer pure serenity and beauty.”
The general consensus from charter companies indicates the 2025 Croatia charter scene is in a healthy state. Leanne Kifford – Business Development Manager at Nautilus Yachting said: “Bookings are going great for 2025 with Croatia being our second most popular destination after Greece. We currently have bareboat yacht charters available from Split, Trogir, Dubrovnik, Sibenik, the Kornati and Pula.”
Nautilus Yachting is also a popular choice in terms of flotilla holidays including the Dalmatian, Dubrovnik, and Split flotillas. According to Kifford the Dalmatian flotilla is new this year sailing from Sibenik, which gives easy access to the beautiful Kornati islands. “The two one-week flotilla routes have been carefully planned to take in many of the best spots in the area while also giving our clients a very authentic experience of Croatia. A favourite stop on the flotilla is the plastic-free and car-free island of Zlarin. This idyllic island with unforgettable sunsets is the last night’s stop on both flotilla routes and gives our clients the option to spend one more night out on the water, returning to the base on the Saturday morning.”
Sunsail’s Flotilla Holidays
Sunsail also offers flotilla holidays (Brač and Krka) in late August and early October respectively. Caroline Barbour, Marketing Manager at Sunsail says every Sunsail flotilla route includes a free sailing day: “ This gives guests the freedom to choose their own stop for the night. Whether they opt for a lively town, a quiet anchorage, or a scenic mooring suggested by the crew, it’s a chance to explore at their own pace.”
And Sunsail crews’ favourite spots, Barbour concludes: “On the Krka route, many guests head to Skradin to visit the stunning Krka National Park. For a more secluded experience, our crew loves Zlarin, a peaceful bay surrounded by pine trees, perfect for snorkelling and stargazing.
“The Brač route circles Croatia’s highest island. Guests can stop at Bol and its famous Golden Horn beach, but our crew’s favourite is Luka Tiha Bay on Hvar. Its calm, deep-blue waters are great for paddleboarding, snorkelling, and enjoying a meal at a local restaurant under the stars.”
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