Sailing in Croatia: Exploring the Dalmatian Coast Like a Pro
With nearly 5800 kilometres of coastline, Croatia beckons boaters to spend time under the sun. The warm, crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea arm lures locals and visitors for a variety of on-water activities including jet skiing, kayaking, and fishing. Although you’ll find plenty of reasons to visit Croatia’s coastline, the Dalmatian Coast is the ultimate destination for sailing in Croatia.
8 reasons to sail the Dalmatian Coast
You needn’t look beyond the water to find reasons to go to the Dalmatian Coast. The alluring Adriatic Sea is an arm of the Mediterranean, so there’s no shortage of dazzling sunsets over sparkling waves. The view from the shoreline is dreamy, but there’s simply nothing quite comparable to seeing the Dalmatian Coast from topside. From visiting unforgettable UNESCO World Heritage Sites to roaming lesser-visited national parks, here are eight reasons to set sail for the Dalmatian Coast.
Peljesac Peninsula, Croatia
1. Exploring the Dalmatian Islands
Island hopping in Croatia is the number one reason to go to the Dalmatian Coast.
More than 1,200 Croatian islands fill the Adriatic Sea, though fewer than 100 are inhabited. Popular northern islands include Pag, Dugi Otok, and Krk while southern favorites tend to be Hvar, Brač, and Korčula. Ferries, water taxis, and private boat rentals make it convenient to visit multiple islands from major cities. For instance, you can stay in Split and instantly visit Vis, Hvar, and Brač.
2. Marvel at Golden Horn Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia is a short ferry ride away from Split and Trogir: Golden Horn Beach. Zlatni Rat beach is on Brac Island’s south tip, only a fifteen minute walk from the town of Bol. This long pebble beach is famous for its “horn” that changes shape as the winds and sea currents shoreline. Water activities like fly fishing rods, inner tubes, and water skis are available for rent. Public showers and toilets are available, as are beachfront massages, laidback coffee shops, and buzzy restaurants.
3. Venture into the Blue Cave
Biševo island is one of the westernmost Dalmatian islands and one of the most popular thanks to the dazzling Blue Cave. As sunlight streams into this ethereal-like grotto, it’s reflected off of the limestone seabed, illuminating the cave with a dazzling blue glow. The Blue Cave itself is only open for visitors of official tours, though savvy boaters know that they can explore the natural beauty of other caves and beaches without a ticket.
4. Relax along the Makarska Riviera
Stretching 60km from Gradac to Brela, the Makarska Riviera is a sunsoaked strip of the Dalmatian Coast perfect for lazy sailing days. Cruise leisurely along the glittering coastline, taking in the sunrise over the Biokovo mountain range. You can spend an entire sailing vacation in Croatia along the riviera alone. Uncover history at the ancient Roman village of Tučepi and fortress in Drvenik. Wander through the Makarska Shell Museum and astronomical observatory. Spend hours hiking through Biokovo National Park or take advantage of over 2600 hours of annual sunshine to work on your tan.
5. See UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Dalmatia has no shortage of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are easily accessible on boat tours and private charters. Dubrovnik’s old town and city walls draw the highest number of visitors. The Stari Grad Plan on Hvar island is a 4th century BCE Greek agricultural system with one of the best-preserved cadastral divisions in the Mediterranean while the city of Šibenik is one of the few on the planet that have two UNESCO World Heritage Sites within city limits. From Zadar’s famous Muaj walls to Trogir’s island settlement and Split’s Diocletian’s Palace, the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Croatia are reason enough to visit the Dalmatian Coast.
6. Visit the “crown of the Croatian islands” in Kornati National Park
Kornati National Park contains nearly 100 reefs, islets, and islands, making it a paradise for sailors. You will need a ticket to sail through this national park, but the additional step is well-worth the opportunity to visit a local favorite: the uninhabited Lavsa Island. The Konoba Larus seafood restaurant is a remote place to savor al fresco dining over a gorgeous sunset.
Kornati National Park, Croatia
7. Wade into the lakes of Mljet National Park
Mljet National Park is among the oldest marine protected areas in the Mediterranean. Two bays filled with saltwater offer opportunities for kayaking and swimming. Canoeing to the island’s sea caves and beaches is also available. One of the highlights of the national park is the St. Mary Benedictine monastery overlooking the Great Lake. Polače, Pomena, Pelješac, Dubrovnik, and Split all have ferries to Mljet island.
8. Visiting Game of Thrones filming locations
The television series Game of Thrones gave some travelers their first glimpse of Croatia. Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Minčeta Tower, Pile Gate, and city walls were all featured in the show. Trsteno Arboretum, Fort Lovrijenac, and Lokrum Island were also used in the series, making the medieval city on the Dalmatian Coast synonymous with the fictional “King’s Landing”.
A guide to sailing in Croatia
Whether it’s your first time sailing in Croatia alone or if you’re embarking on another nautical tour of the Dalmatian Coast, use this info to help you plan your adventure on the Adriatic.
Where is the Dalmatian Coast?
The Dalmatian Coast is located on the eastern edge of the Adriatic Sea primarily running along the Croatian coastline. Both a historical area and a popular vacation spot, the Dalmatian Coast is one of the most popular places to visit in Croatia.
How many countries are on the Dalmatian Coast?
Although Croatia covers nearly all of the Dalmatian Coast, there are technically two countries in this seaside region: Croatia and Montenegro. Opposite Croatia’s southernmost border, Montenegro’s port cities like Budva, Kotor, and Bar are relatively easy to access when sailing from southern Croatia. Public marinas and beaches welcome visitors to the edge of the Dalmatian Coast.
Is Dubrovnik on the Dalmatian Coast?
Yes, Dubrovnik is on the Dalmatian Coast. The fortified city and filming location for King’s Landing in the TV series Game of Thrones is located in the far south of the country. It’s one of the most popular cities to visit thanks to its preserved Old Town and instant access to the Elaphiti islands of Lopud, Kolocep, and Lokrum.
Which month is best to sail Croatia?
Croatia is gorgeous in the summer season which is by far the most popular time to sail. June, July, and August see temperatures in the 30℃s while the sea’s temperature ranges from 22℃ to 25℃. September is still warm, though the drop in degrees coincides with a drop in tourism, making it an ideal time to sail with fewer boats filling the marina.
Where are the best places to sail in Croatia?
The best sailing routes in Croatia tend to combine mainland coastal cities and the Dalmatian islands. For the most convenient routes, leverage ferry availability to reach more popular islands. Split has ferry services to Vis, Brac, Hvar, and Korcula. Zadar has ferries to Pula and Susak while Dubrovnik has water transport to Korcula, Sipan, and Mljet.
What is the best way to sail the Dalmatian Coast?
From private yacht charters and group tours to large cruises and captaining your own vessel, travelers have multiple options when it comes to sailing in Croatia. The best way to sail the Dalmatian Coast aligns with your personal travel preferences. If you desire a five-star say, chartering a private yacht is a suitable choice. If you’re interested in the destination, not so much the journey, island hopping via day trips presents a perfect option.
Sailing vacations
Sailing vacations are a convenient way to not only sail through Croatia, but to see it on a comprehensive visit. These excursions, often available as mutli-day guided tours such as Croatia Yacht Week, curate an itinerary featuring stops at coastal cities and Croatian islands known for their natural beauty, rich history, and charming towns.
Captained yacht charters
Guided group tours are enjoyable, though some families or weekend travelers may prefer the solitude of a captained yacht charter. Hiring a private yacht for an intimate sailing experience along the Dalmatian Coast is an excellent way to enjoy quality time on the water. Many of these yachts for hire include crew service as well, allowing you to eat, drink, and play as you sail from port to port.
Bareboat charters
The flexibility and freedom of a private charter with the thrill of charting your own course: bareboat charters allow you to be the captain of your own Croatian coastal voyage. To operate a vessel in Croatia, you will need a valid skipper’s license and a VHF radio license.
Half-day or full-day trips by boat
You don’t need to plan a strict sailing vacation to see the Dalmatian islands. Most towns and cities along the Croatian coast have marinas where tour companies offer half-day or full-day boat tours. For example, you can spend two days in Dubrovnik touring the Old Town then spend a third day on a boat tour to Blue Cave or the Elafiti islands.
Inland sailing in Croatia
Guided tours of Croatia often venture away from the coast; thankfully, there are opportunities for inland sailing in Croatia. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a serene central Croatia gem. The park’s sixteen lakes are accessible via boat tours, a popular way to see the forest reserve from the water. Row boats are also available for rent, offering independent rowing on Kozjak Lake.
Krka National Park, located near Šibenik, is another scenic spot where you can explore the park by boat. Like Plitvice Lakes National Park, Krka National Park is known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and waterways. You can rent a boat to sail from Skradin to Skradinski buk’s waterfall or take a boat tour to sites like the Trošenj and Nečven medieval fortresses, Visovac Island, Torak Lake spring, and the Torak Lake spring.
Rovinj, Croatia
Croatia sailing tips
Sailing in Croatia is an excellent way to see the country, no matter if it’s your first visit or if you’ve already explored the mainland. Here are a few Croatia sailing tips to keep in mind when planning your aquatic adventure:
- Book your sailing trips or reserve your vessels early when planning summer season vacations.
- The best sailing routes in Croatia often include ports that also have major international airports, like Split and Dubrovnik.
- While the weather is favorable, storms and sea conditions can delay or cancel sailing trips so be mindful of the forecast.
- Anticipate relatively calm waters in the Adriatic, though keeping motion sickness medication on-hand is always a good idea.
- Consider taking sailing lessons while in Croatia as a balanced option to experience the Dalmatian Coast by boat in an engaging yet manageable way.
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Sailing in Croatia without a port in mind? You’d do well to set sail for these ten Croatian cities on the Dalmatian Coast where UNESCO World Heritage Sites, shimmering beaches, and charming seaside villages await.
1. Korčula
Where better to visit on a sailing holiday in Croatia than Korčula, an island that some historians believe Marco Polo’s ancestry originates from. It’s got some of the best beaches in the country, yet somehow, it’s not a well-trodden site on Croatia’s main tourism trail. That allows you to lower the sails and take it slow, spending as much time as you desire exploring old town’s cobblestone streets, sipping on wines at vineyards, and venturing out to the nearby islands of Vrink, Stupe, and Badija.
2. Zadar
Zadar marks the northern edge of the Dalmatian Coast which is why it’s a common port to set sail from. Not unlike other popular Croatian cities, time spent in Zadar means exploring the old town and lounging on the beach. Between hiking in Krka National Park and watching the sunset to the soundtrack of the unique “Sea Organ”, Zadar is an ideal space to spend your last days on land before sailing the Dalmatian Coast.
3. Split and Šibenik
You’ll find full marinas in Split, the largest Dalmatia city. Home to one of the top UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Croatia, Diocletian’s Palace, Split is also a popular port of call for sailors. Hvar, Brac, and Pakleni Islands, as well as Bisevo’s Blue Cave, are all accessible by boat from Split. However, don’t be deterred from floating into other mainland cities. In between island hopping, Šibenik deserves a stop. The gateway to the Kornati Islands feels more “authentic” than Split and Dubrovnik, retaining more of a local atmosphere despite having a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Saint James Cathedral) and quintessential Dalmatian old town.
4. Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a nonnegotiable destination for most visitors. Whether you’re sailing in Croatia or exploring the interior by car, Dubrovnik’s inspiring Old Town is the highlight of many itineraries. The Pearl of the Adriatic — which received a starring role as a filming location for Game of Thrones — has dozens of viewpoints for gazing at the water. From the ancient walls to the top Srd Hill, you’ll keep the sea in sight virtually everywhere you go. When planning a sailing trip along the Dalmatian Coast, Dubrovnik is a smart place to start or end: an international airport, strong tourism sector, and instant access to the Elaphiti Islands makes it a convenient base for all travelers.
5. Trogir
If you’re starting your voyage from Split, Trogir is the ideal first stop. Founded by the Greeks over 2,300 years ago, this town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you’ll find stunning architecture like the Renaissance Cipiko Palace. For those arriving on land, charter boats are available near the Kamerlengo fortress. See Trogir’s cathedral and Renaissance Cipiko Palace on our multi-week The Eastern Discovery tour.
6. Kuna Pelješka
On the Pelješac peninsula, Kuna Pelješka is a place to idle for a few hours with a glass of wine in hand. Settle in to a restaurant or find your way to a farm for a tour and delicious local lunch. Should your crew desire a chance to exercise their sea legs, a walk to the 18th century Francscan monastery and 17th century Church of Our Lady of Loreta are popular stops.
7. Ston & Mali Ston
Ston and Mali Ston are separate towns on the Pelješac peninsula. Less than 2km from each other, they’re linked by fortified Walls of Ston built in the 1300s. Mali Ston is the smaller of the two, encouraging boaters to drop anchor and dive into its popular oysters. In Ston, the saltworks are the main draw; walking along the salt pans gives a glimpse into the salt harvesting methods used since the Middle Ages.
8. Hvar
The island of Hvar is a summer season destination for every person sailing the Dalmatian Coast. The ancient Greeks, the Venetians, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire all laid claim to the island, taking advantage of its excellent seafaring position. Visitors still flock to Hvar, spending time in the old town, hiking to Fortica Fortress, and taking the ferry to the Pakleni Islands.
Hvar harbor
9. Orebić
On the Pelješac peninsula, Orebić is a must-see during a visit to Korčula, which is easily accessible via a ferry across the strait. The island cafe Moro Beach Stupe lets you drink in cocktails and views, warranting the short water taxi ride. For vistas requiring a bit more effort, hiking to the summit of Sveti Ilija takes a half-day but grants views of the sea, islands, and wild horses.
10. Cavtat
Sitting along the coast just northwest of Dubrovnik’s airport, Cavtat is a laidback alternative to the popular port city. This relaxed town does fill with visitors during the annual Epidaurus music festival, but much of the year it’s a calm place where museums, beach resorts, and a collection of Old Town museums will keep you anchored for hours.
You may also be interested to read: 15 Best Things to do in Croatia, the Essential Sights and Activities
Feeling inspired? Book your Croatia guided tour with Insight Vacations
About Nick Dauk
Nick is an American travel writer based in Orlando. From visiting a Mayan god in Guatemala to sand boarding in Egypt to sniffing out white truffles in Italy, Nick embraces unique cultural experiences wherever and whenever he can. When he’s not lugging his backpack between Bogota and Bucharest, he’s carrying his children through the zoos and museums of Central Florida.
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