Looking for the ultimate Mediteranean coastal cruising destination? Croatia has everything you could ask for, and then some. Easy access by air or road, a huge selection of sailing and motor yachts, great maps, welcoming people, abundant historical/architectural sites, and clear blue waters. Croatia has it all for a rewarding yachting holiday.
There are many different locations, but I like starting from Split. The airport has regular flights from most european cities. There are many marinas in and around the beautiful town of Trogir, making it very easy to transfer from the airport. From there, one sails north or south depending on wind direction, to access some of the most spectacular islands in the Med.
Yacht charter is Saturday to Saturday, and the marinas have a good system to get you quickly out on the water with the least amount of fuss. We arrive at noon, having done our shopping for the first few days. After going over the boat to make sure everything is to our liking and we understand all her rigging, we set sail for some of the most glorious sights around. By evening, we are in a position to choose between any number of neighbouring, island marinas, for our first overnight aboard. A meal of fresh Dorade and a wonderfull sleep, gently rocked afloat for the first time, we are relax and ready for another 6 days of bliss, discovering all that these islands have to give.
Northwards, we would cruise through the Kornati islands, perhaps with a visit to the wonderful Krka National Park …. These island around the Kornati have a magical allure to them, bringing back images of Roman fleets harvesting the native words to take back to Greece.
Sowthwards, we discover such historical island ports of Hvar, Vis, Mljet, even going as far south as Dubrovnik. For those wanting to enjoy museums and boutiques, there’s no better place than Hvar. And the multitude of surrounding islands, all with an equal important historical aspect abound. And for those interested in a bit of physical activity, lovely hikes or bike rides await. Even those wishing to do a bit of sport rock climbing will regal in the little Thailand cliff on Hvar.
In short, Croatia has so much to offer to so many different boating enthusiasts, there’s not need to wander elsewhere.