If you love to travel by sea, sailing the Croatian coast should definitely be on your bucket list. Providing the perfect way to explore the many beautiful Croatian islands, when you travel by boat, you can visit a whole host of picturesque harbors and amazing marine national parks that can’t be accessed any other way. 

So, how do you get started when planning a sailing trip in Croatia, and what are the must-see sailing destinations? Let’s take a closer look at the beginner’s guide below to sailing in Croatia. 

Where to sail in Croatia

When it comes to choosing which areas of Croatia to explore on your sailing trip, there are so many stunning destinations to choose from, including Pula, Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik.

As a beginner, you should explore the area at a slow and relaxing pace so you have time to fully take in your stunning surroundings and feel the heartbeat of the country. 

If you feel like you need a little help planning your Croatia yacht vacation, it can be a good idea to get in contact with a reputable yacht charter agency. 

When to go sailing in Croatia 

The sailing season in Croatia is between late May and late October, so you can choose to book your trip at any time during these months. However, as a beginner, it’s recommended that you visit during either July or August as this is when sailing conditions are at their best. 

It’s worth noting that yacht rental prices are at their highest during peak season, but it’s more than worth the extra cost to be able to enjoy the Croatian coastline at this time of year. 

Practical tips for sailing in Croatia 

  1. Book your yacht early

The earlier you book your yacht vacation, the better deal you’re likely to get. Furthermore, if you want to visit during the summer months, you’ll need to book early to avoid disappointment. 

  1. Sail for at least one week 

If you want to be able to fully enjoy the islands surrounding Croatia and the mainland itself, you need to sail for at least 7 days. Although you can find short trips for between 3–5 days, you’ll struggle to visit all the top locations in within this timeframe. 

  1. Don’t overpack 

You should always try and pack light for a sailing trip as you don’t want to be falling over your belongings left, right, and center. Instead of using a hard suitcase, a soft duffel bag is a much better idea.

  1. Stock up on supplies

Make sure you stock up your boat with enough food and supplies for at least the first two days of your trip. Although you can buy provisions when you dock at a marina, these tend to be much more expensive, and some remote islands will only have a limited supply. 

  1. Pay close attention to the conditions 

Whether you’re new to sailing or just new to sailing in Croatia, you must make sure you pay close attention to the conditions on the water so you can explore safely, without taking any unnecessary risks.