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Sailing Tours & Trips in Croatia

184 sailing tour packages in croatia with 1,244 reviews.

Sailing Explorer

Croatia Cruise Southern Dalmatia - from Split

"Despite that I would still book again. The size of the ship allowed the crew to personally know you and your preferences." Carol, traveled in August 2017

Sailing Active Explorer

CROATIA SAIL - Split to Split (The Dalmatian Voyager)

"I really enjoyed the sailing aspect of traveling, this ship was not small so you did not always feel the waves." Jacklynn, traveled in September 2023

• €100 deposit on some dates

Sailing Motor boat Explorer

CROATIA SAIL - Dubrovnik to Split (The Northern Explorer)

"Good itinerary, nice boat." Nadia, traveled in September 2022

Croatia Sail Adventure

"The itinerary was so much fun and living on a boat was a better experience then expect!" Thomas, traveled in June 2024

Sailing Gulet Explorer

Kvarner Bay Islands - from Opatija

"Everything was well organized and the customer service gave us total support." Alberto, traveled in October 2016

Croatia Island Sail (8 Days)

Sailing Family Motor boat Explorer Sightseeing Historical +3

Adriatic Cruise - from Split to Split

"Excellent experience, very good cruise ship, crew. Highly recommended." Stoy, traveled in July 2023

Sailing Boat Gulet Explorer

8-day Split Return cruise - Classic Plus boat, above-deck, 18-35s

"Great people, food and facilities - not to mention a great country to tour by boat." Brendan, traveled in June 2019

Med Sailing in Croatia (from Dubrovnik to Split)

"The water is so clear and you can see through it like glass, you need to experience it for yourself." Gail, traveled in May 2017

5-day Dubrovnik to Split one-way cruise - Classic Plus above-deck, 18-35s

"Spectecular sea and sights at land. Will do again sometime and can recommend to anyone!" Philipp, traveled in August 2018

What people love about Sailing Tours in Croatia

Thank you Koda team for an incredible week! I was on the Dalmatian tour June 15-22, 2024. The itinerary was well organized, allowing us to experience the natural beauty of Croatia from many different perspectives - sailing and swim stops, historic walking tours, vibrant nightlife, exploring nature via biking in a national park, and adventurous activities such as rafting and zip lining. They alternated busy days/nights out with chill days to allow for rest and recovery in between which I really appreciated for a group of people aged late 20s to 40s. The tour brought together people with a common interest in being social and active but also chill and relaxing. The boat staff was excellent - professional, fun, friendly, and obviously very hard-working (thank you!!). In particular, our guide Lucas was very detail-oriented and personable and went above and beyond to make sure everyone was getting the most of the experience. Activities including tours, dining out at restaurants, outings to bars/clubs, and exploring nature were all planned for us but always optional. I appreciated the ability to have the option to participate but not have to do the research and logistical planning myself so I could genuinely relax and enjoy vacation (some of the activities cost extra but that was always stated upfront). I would only suggest they improve on the type and quality of the food served on the boat, as I did not always find it the most flavorful or appropriate (i.e. having hot soup after a hike in extremely hot weather or very heavy meal of meat and mashed potatoes, for example, for lunch right before a swim - a salad and sandwich or wrap would perhaps be more fitting at that time). Also we were only offered 2 water bottles each per day; I highly recommend they make unlimited water accessible to avoid people getting dehydrated. Overall the early bird pricing was extremely worth the value of accommodations, transportation, many of the meals, and tour guide for 7 days. I made amazing friends and memories and would definitely do another tour!

Koda Sails did a fantastic job of organizing a well run tour of the Dalmatian Coast. Prior to the trip, Chris was great about answering questions promptly to address anything that popped in my head before I set sail. We had an amazing group of people that made the week fun and entertaining. There were plenty of swim stops and free time in the ports but everyone had the most fun doing the group activities since we got along so well! As a solo traveler, I would definitely recommend this tour to all of my friends. There were also a few couples on board that ended up really enjoying the social aspect of meeting fellow young professionals for the week! No one cared if they went on their own for dinner a few nights. Yes, you could stay in Split and take the public ferries to the different islands, but I met some amazing people and didn't have to worry about the week's itinerary (It is also nice to be able to keep your suitcase in one spot for the week!). Lucas Chesterton was a great guide and MC and kept us on schedule which is hard to do with 37 people. The crew kept us well-fed and were very entertaining especially Toni and Luka. They also can cater to any dietary needs if you have an allergy or dietary preference. The cabins had great air conditioning (this is coming from an American) and were rather spacious for being on a boat. They are very knowledgeable about Croatia and you go to places that the company knows and loves. I never would have gone to Makarska and it ended up being one of my favorite places that we visited! It definitely was not a party boat. For those that wanted to drink and go out to a bar or club after dinner, there definitely were options in the ports that were recommended if you wanted to go, but if you wanted to have a chill night and or holiday week and not drink that was totally kosher. All and all I would recommend this tour to a friend, so take the plunge and go to Croatia with Koda Sails, I promise that you won't be disappointed.

My trip to coratia was amazing! The itinerary was so much fun and living on a boat was a better experience then expect! The crew was excellent and my guide Becca was the best! She always brought good energy and made sure everyone felt included.

Sailing Tours

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• Croatian Islands (175)
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Travel Styles

• 10 Best Sailing Holidays & Trips 2024/2025
• Croatia Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Croatia Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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4-DAY SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK

A short, but sweet 4-day cruise, 5-day dubrovnik to split​, 5 magical days from dubrovnik to split, 8-day return cruises, the full 8 days/7nights on a return route, our "get a feel" gallery..., more from our.

Embark on an unforgettable Turkish adventure. The ultimate way to explore Fethiye, Marmaris, and Bodrum! Experience the magic of traditional Gulet boats with air-con and treat yourself to the comfort of sleeping in your cosy cabin every night. Choose your 4 or 7-day journey and explore the crystal-clear waters and beauty of Turkey's coastline

Indulge yourself in discovering the true beauty of Greece with this unique tour. You will have the opportunity to explore the stunning Ionian Sea on a classic Gulet boat, visiting the magical islands of Zakynthos, Kefalonia, and Lefkada. Additionally, you will island-hop by ferry through the fascinating Aegean Sea, visiting Mykonos, Ios, and Santorini. And of course, no trip to Greece would be complete without a day in the timeless city of Athens. This tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to discover the beauty of Greece.

Uncover the wonders of the hidden gem of the Adriatic. Choose between our two 8-day routes: the Grand Route and the Montenegro Gems Route. Set sail on a captivating journey along Montenegro's stunning Adriatic coastline aboard a classic Gulet boat. Traverse the azure waters as you discover the enchanting charm of ancient towns like Kotor and Budva, where history blends seamlessly with breathtaking natural beauty.

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Croatia Sailing Tours: How to Choose the Best Island Sail Week in Croatia (2024)

Posted on Last updated: May 21, 2024

So you haven’t been on any Croatia sailing tours yet?! What are you waiting for?! As a booming newer destination in the past decade, sailing Croatia is now on the radar of travelers everywhere. As someone who has been working there for quite a few years, I’ll tell you that there’s no better way to experience this beautiful country than to sail Croatia – spend a week on a sail week trip of the Croatian islands.

Croatia sailing trips are becoming so popular that new companies and Croatia sailing weeks are popping up left and right; everyone wants to try to get their slice of the booming business of the perfect idyllic holiday.

There are some companies that have been around for years and some new ones, some bigger sailing companies and some smaller ones, both budget and luxury sailing tours, and some massive boats with more passengers or smaller ones with less. There’s definitely a lot of choices when it comes to picking the best Croatia sailing tours, and I’m here to help you figure out which sail week in Croatia may be right for you.

How I Know About Croatia Sailing Tours

I worked three summers as a tour guide on these very Croatia sailing tours I’ll be describing to you, and during that time, I got to know the in’s and out’s of all the different companies and different tours. In 2022 I became a partner in my very own Croatia sailing company for young professionals called Fjaka Sail (more on that later) and helped run our first tours in 2023.

I have come to know what the selling points of each company are, what makes each one different, which tours are better for what ages, and what kinds of people tend to book a certain tour due boat size, party level, and more.

Below I have outlined all that I know about each Croatia sailing company and what kind of person it may be more geared towards. I’m hoping you can take all this info to make the perfect decision on the right one for you! If you need any help planning, feel free to reach out to me by email or DM me on Instagram.

Disclaimer: All this info is my personal opinion from working 5+ seasons of sail Croatia on the Adriatic. They may not be correct or agreeable, but I hope my experience can be used to help you choose the best Croatia sailing tour week for your needs. This post also contains affiliate links.

What to Know Before Booking Croatia Sailing Tours

First of all, know what to bring! Here’s my sailing trip packing list , and everything else you need to know is below.

Sailing Croatia Tour Boats

Before I start, I want to give a quick description of what kinds of boats you’ll be looking at for your sail week Croatia. The boats come in a few different classes and styles that you will want to know before you go! Links to companies are below.

Renting Your Own Boat

If this all seems too complicated to you and you already have a group, you might want to consider renting your own boat and doing your own tour. This is totally possible. I recommend using a site like Sailo to rent your own boat . You can view boats, where they are located, prices… etc. It’s kind of like an Airbnb for boats.

Floatilla Style Croatia Tours/Boats

Some tours run in a floatilla style, meaning that there will be 5+ (usually even more, up to 20+) smaller boats of 8-10 people all sailing together. Each small boat will have a skipper and the option to have a hostess. These boats don’t specifically have a guide, but workers who help to run the whole floatilla smoothly.

Bigger Sail Croatia Boats – B/A/A+

Companies with bigger boats run as one complete tour by themself. Bigger boats will hold around 25-40 people. These boats generally have their own Croatian sailing crew (captain, chef, bartender/server, sailor(s), etc) and may have a tour guide responsible specifically for the well-being of the guests. Bigger boats come in three categories:

B Class boats – These are wooden boats with shared facilities and usually no air conditioning. They are, of course, quite a lot cheaper. Cabins will have two bunk beds each. These boats are usually smaller (18-25 people) and are quite the authentic sailing experience!

A Class boats –  A-class boats have ensuite toilets in each cabin and sometimes communal air conditioning in the hallway or saloon/eating room. Beds are usually bunk with two in each room. There’s a large range of A-class boats – some much nicer than others – but will all have this basic ensuite structure.

A+ Class boats – A+ boats are the luxury of the seas and are the fancy white boats you will see on the Adriatic that hold 35+ people. A+ boats have air conditioning in each room, two (not bunk) beds in a spacious cabin, a safe in each room, and LOTS of space to chill – including a big upper/lower deck, good speakers, and hot breakfast.

Smaller Private Yachts

Some Croatia sailing tour companies that are more family/all-ages oriented will have one smaller 8-10 person boat available for Croatia yacht charter hire for the week. These will come with a skipper and possibly a hostess.

Katarina Lines

Because all boats are privately owned and operated, most companies use an agency to obtain the boats they work with. The agency that operates most of Croatia is called Katarina Line. 

You will see these logos all over the place, and you can actually book tours with KL themselves, as they have some sail Croatia tours that are not affiliated with a specific company and also can help find you what company works best for your needs.

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Croatia Sailing Tours Routes/Duration

You will find that most of the Croatia sailing tours are one week, from Saturday morning to Saturday morning. The brochures may say 8 days because of the first and last Saturday. Some run Wed-Wed or Thurs-Thurs, and are usually quieter.

Sail Croatia weeks will mostly be one-way or round-trip between Split and Dubrovnik. If you fly into one of the airports, it’s easy to get a ferry/bus transfer to the other city if need be.

On bigger, more highly powered boats (not floatillas) you will either sail Split-Split, Dubrovnik-Dubrovnik, Split-Dubrovnik, or Dubrovnik-Split. Floatillas will generally not make it all the way between Split and Dubrovnik because they’re smaller boats and can’t move as fast.

Croatia Sailing Destinations:

When looking at routes, make sure you pick places you like most (or just follow my recommendations!). To read a bit more about different destinations, see my guides below:

Split – Day Trips from Split – Vis Island – Hvar Island – Makarska – Korcula Island – Dubrovnik – Day Trips from Dubrovnik – ALL OF CROATIA – 20 Best Festivals in Croatia

Croatia Sailing Tours Added Costs, Currency, and Optional Activities

When you go on a Croatia sailing trip, you must be prepared for extra costs . Most routes will include breakfast and lunch, but not dinner (except floatillas, which do not include either). There are usually two optional dinners onboard the boats during the week which you can purchase if you wish.

Drinks and dinners on the boats will go on a tab system you can pay at the end of the week. Drinks and food outside the boat will usually be paid for in cash in euros, which is the official currency since 2023 (it used to be Croatian Kuna). Any adventure tours (like zip lining ) or activities will cost extra as well.

So What is the best Sail Croatia Company?

This depends on your age, but here is a quick breakdown:

Best Sail Croatia company for young people (18-22+): Topdeck/Contiki

Best Sail Croatia company for Young Professionals (22-40ish): Fjaka Sail/Koda Sail

Best Sail Croatia company for All Ages/Families: G Adventures/Intrepid Travel

Best Sail Croatia company for an Older Crowd : Kompas/Peregrine Adventures

Keep reading for a description of each company and links.

Croatia Sailing Tours for Young People and Young Professionals – Tours for Youth + Mature

So if you didn’t already know, sail Croatia is a great party destination . Many people come to Croatia to enjoy the scenery a little bit and sip on cocktails, take fancy shots, dance on bars, and party quite a lot .

This isn’t to say that you can’t come on a Croatia sailing holiday and have a mellow, chilled week relaxing in the sun, but just be warned that there will be quite a lot of debauchery going on around you. It is actually part of tour guides’ jobs on these boats to take you to at least one (or 4) bars every night. It’s up to you whether or not you wish to take part.

What Do I Need to Know Before Booking Party Croatia Sailing Tours for Young People?

Bell rings:.

On each boat, if you ring ‘the bell’ (every boat has one), you buy a round of shots for the entire boat. Yes, everyone on it. Bell rings are like a Croatian right of passage; they’re a ceremonial symbol of Adriatic party. As soon you ring the bell, the bartender will compile a tray of shots with the amount of people on the boat, and put it on your tab which you pay at the end of the week. Dangerous.

Nights Out:

There’s always a good mix of bigger and smaller nights out. Save up for nights out in Hvar, Dubrovnik, Makarska, and Korcula. At the rest of the ports, you can go crazy at one or two small bars or chill out and stargaze on the boat. Tour guides should always give you a nice alternative to a party night.

Nationalities:

On the bigger boat Croatia sailing tours (Topdeck, Busabout, Contiki, Sail Croatia), you will find that there are a lot of Australians (and Kiwis) around. You will find Americans, Scandinavians, and more Europeans on floatilla tours like The Yacht Week and Medsailors. I have no idea why this is, but that’s how it turned out.

Some companies tend to end up as bigger parties than others, and I will go through each one and their general stereotype/clientele below.

MY OWN CROATIA SAILING TOUR COMPANY: FJAKA SAIL

I’ve been waiting to announce this news: myself, another tour guide who has been working Croatia sailing tours for 10 years, and my partner started our very own Croatia sailing company called Fjaka Sail. We ran our first 3 amazingly successful tours in 2023 and have 4 weeks available in 2024.

After working for big companies for so long, we have always known that we could do better running the show ourselves and not answering to a main office in another city or a sales team who have never even been to Croatia. Fjaka Sail is a small company run by passionate travelers who KNOW Croatia and can’t wait to tailor the experience to each and every person.

Clientele/Age Range : Fjaka Sail is targeted at young professionals and young at heart. This means travelers who are a bit older but still know how to have a good time – you can be a more mature 23 or a young and fun 45. As far as Nationalities, we get a big mix and our doors are open to everyone. We are after more of a mindset than an age or nationality, but we have had Americans, Aussies, Kiwis, Brits, South Africans, and more.

Our Fjaka Sailing Guide: Andre knows the language, the land, and EVERYONE there is to know in our destinations – the families with amazing restaurants, the coolest bars, and hidden gems. There’s a reason he has the most returning passengers out of any guide I know.

Fjaka Sail Boats : We have what I fully believe to be the best boat for our age group: The President. The president is an A+++ white boat with a rooftop jacuzzi, spacious rooms, A/C, hot breakfast, two chefs, four floors, amazing crew, and more. Trust me, you won’t want to be on board ANY other boat this summer.

Party Level : We will always have options for whatever each person wants to do, whether that be a huge night out or go stargazing. We know that a young professional crowd is a bit more mature, so we visit chic cocktail bars on the Riva and hidden gems, as well as some usual local party bars and, of course, a club or two – because we believe in balance.

Fjaka Sail routes : We have tailored our routes to include EVERYTHING cool and remove anything annoying about routes we worked in the past for big companies. You won’t miss out on anything important on a Fjaka Sailing tour, and we have some extra special things organized that NO other tours do.

Fjaka Sail Price: We are keeping our prices much lower as the industry prices continue to soar. We pride ourselves on privicing affordable luxury for young professionals! Our tours start at €1950 for a bed which gets even cheaper when we run discounts. Follow us on Instagram to keep up to date!

Use my code KIMMIE10 for a 10% discount on our sailing weeks for this summer, or subscribe below to see if we have any bigger discounts running at the moment.

Croatia Sailing Companies: Koda Sail

Koda Sail is a more intimate and detail-oriented company geared toward the more mature partier and the young professional (and they also run tours in the Maldives, Turkey, Greece, and more now). Koda Sail only runs premiere A+ style luxurious boats, but is still quite affordable for young people. Koda Sail stands for the fact that sometimes young people need a bit of luxury, too, but can also have a bit of fun.

Clientele: Koda Sail was founded by an Aussie guy named Chris, who is a total legend! A lot of the clientele would be similarly Aussie/Kiwi but varied.

Boats: Koda Sail only has A+ style, ensuite, air-conditioned boats. See A+ category boat descriptions above.

Guides: Koda Sail has an experienced guide who is a bit older but still knows how to have a good time. Chris, the owner, runs some of the tours himself I believe.

Party Level: The option to party is always there on Koda Sail (as with any Croatia sailing tour). Koda Sail has a better balance of big and small nights with some great options for nights out and recovery days in between.

Age Range: Koda sail passengers are generally mid-twenties to late-ish thirties, but if you are of the young professional category/mindset you will be just fine.

Routes: During the summer, Koda Sail has three different routes, the S-S, S-D, and D-S. There’s only one tour per week so the route depends on the date. All routes include great places.

Koda Sail Tours

Recommended Tour: All the routes are great but I recommend the Split to Split Luxury A+ Koda Sail Cruise :

Croatia Sailing Companies: Travel Talk

Travel Talk is a tour company with bus tours throughout Europe, and Croatia sailing tours are just a small part of their product. They have two boats that switch between Split to Dubrovnik and Dubrovnik to Split routes, and are historically one of the cheapest  Croatia sailing tours – even with ensuite facilities. 

Clientele: Travel Talks clientele is also largely Aussie, with a bit of variety thrown in here and there, and do love a good party.

Boats: Travel Talk have two smaller wooden boats (about 20 capacity) with ensuite facilities (A class). One of them, Lav, is an actual pirate ship and is awesome to see sailing! But be warned, they’re by far not the nicest A class boats, but they are fine (especially for the price!).

Guides: The guides on Travel Talk are usually super fun Aussies who are outgoing and helpful but know how to have a good time. I’ve loved the travel talk guides every year.

Party Level: These will be a high party level tour, with options to go out each night (or drink in the day! :P)

Age Range: Travel Talk caps its age at 50-something. Most people are in the young category but some boats have a larger range.

Tours: Just choose your direction:

Croatia sailing companies: contiki.

Contiki is a global tour company that focuses on bus tours all over the world. They have a couple of Croatia sailing tours on different types of boats. Contiki is rather well-known for being a party tour company; I think they are trying to rid themselves of that stereotype but Contiki passengers usually do love a party.

Clientele : Contiki passengers are usually Aussie. However, as their brand grows, their clientele is also. Expect Kiwis, South Africans, Americans, Canadians, and every so often a few people of Asian descent – rarely European.

Boats: Contiki has a few types of boats. They have some premium A+ boat tours and also a few A category ones which differ in price quite a lot. Two dinners are also included on these tours, which is great and differentiates them from most other tours.

Guides: There are a few Contiki Croatia sail guides who stay in Croatia all summer, but a lot of the guides are normally European bus tour guides who come down and guide sails for a few weeks a summer.

Party Level: There will generally be a lot of partying on Contiki Tours.

Age Range: Contiki tours are 18-35 ages – younger than most.

Routes: The Contiki round trip routes spend two nights in Dubrovnik , giving you more time to see the bigger cities but less time in the smaller ones. They only operate Split-Split routes like this. I’m not a fan.

They have some luxe and some cheaper boats available. I have linked their luxe option and their cheaper option below. But I will say they are pricey for what they are and Fjaka Sail’s deals are far better for what you get 🙂

Croatia Sailing Companies: Topdeck

Ah, Topdeck. I worked here for three summers. I’m going to keep my opinions of the company to myself and try not to be biased in my review, but I do know this company the best.

Topdeck is a global, corporate tour company that does tours in six continents. Croatia sailing tours used to be a pretty big part of their European product, but now they only have a few boats running each summer.

Clientele: Topdeck is another one of those companies that gets around well with Aussie word of mouth. Most passengers are Aussie and Kiwi, with a few Canadians and maybe a South African or American once in a while – becoming more diverse over time.

Boats: Topdeck has A and A+ boats. They change each summer but I recommend the A+ ones if possible. I recommend Dalvin and Toma over Moja Maja.

Guides: Topdeck Croatia sail guides are usually absolute legends. Pretty much all Topdeck guides during my time were knowledgable, passionate, kind, and loved a good party.

Party Level: There is a lot of partying on Topdeck sails, which of course depends a lot on the group. There’s also a lot of culture included as well, as guides are required to show you around or do an activity in each town but also take you out each night.

Age Range : Topdeck is 18-39’s.

Routes : All the routes are quite good these days. One-way routes are usually easier on the travel schedule, but their Split-Split and Dubrovnik-Dubrovnik routes are great too. Choose the boat that looks best and go with it!

Topdeck Croatia Sailing Tours

For 2024, I’m not sure what will be available, but again I recommend the boats Dalvin, Meridijan, and Toma if they’re there.

Go Croatia Sail

This company has grown exponentially in the last few years and has almost even overtaken some of the larger companies above in terms of volume. They have flotilla-style boats as well as larger boats these days. They are one of the more affordable Croatia sailing tours on the market for younger people 20-35 (but more like 20-24).

This is the only company I know of that does 4-day and 5-day Croatia sailing tours. If you are low on time, check out some of their tours from Split to Dubrovnik in 4-5 days.

Croatia Sailing Companies: Sail Croatia (Party Tours AND Other Tours)

Sail Croatia is actually a massive company that runs sailing tours for many different clienteles, both old and young. They are known in the young person sector as the main party tour in Croatia.

Check their website for all they offer, but the majority of their product are tours for young people. They also do have some of the nicest and biggest boats for older crowds up to 80+, however.

Clientele: Sail Croatia’s clientele on their ‘Navigator’ tours are mostly young Aussies looking for a good party. They are known for this. But other then ‘ Navigator ” tours, they also have ‘Explorer,’ ‘Elegance,’ ‘Cycle,’ and ‘Hike’ tours for all types of people.

Boats : Sail Croatia has all classes of boats, but the party cruises will usually be on B or A-class boats, with the possibility to book an A+ for young professionals (explorer tours) or older guests (elegance tours).

Guides: Sail Croatia is one of the only companies that employ Croatian tour guides for their trips. I think they have a couple Aussie guides, but they’re mostly Croatian. I find that this is actually not favorable because the cultural barrier is quite large, and having an English speaking tour guide to form the liaison between the Croatian crew and Aussie/English speaking passengers is better… especially one who goes out with the groups and understands the culture.

Party Level: These will be lots of (often messy) partying stereotypically on Navigator tours, but oftentimes it’s just good fun. On Explorer, Elegance, and other tours it will be less.

Age Range: Navigator Party cruises are for under 35’s. Explorer Cruises are nicer boats for younger professionals 25-50. Elegance are for 35+, and Cycle and Hiking Tours are for all ages.

Sail Croatia Tours

If you are young, you will want to book a Navigator Tour (cheaper, lesser quality boats, fun party) or an Explorer Tour (more expensive, nicer boat, more relaxing/sightseeing)

Croatia Sailing Companies: Stoke Travel

Stoke Travel started running Croatia sailing tours in the last few years. Stoke is most well-known for being the party tour company of Europe (even more so than the rest – it’s part of their branding), and I am sure this will correlate to their Croatia tours too. One of their selling points is also selling unlimited beer and sangria for a small price.

Clientele/Guides: Clientele are mostly Aussie, as are guides, and it is sure to be a loose and fun time with like-minded young people.

Boats: I think Stoke’s boats are either B or A… probably B. Given that they have lots of ‘roughing it’ camping party tours I think they will be the same in Croatia. Fun and very shared.

Party Level: With unlimited beer + sangria onboard, you bet it’s HIGH.

Age Range: Stoke is for all ages who like to party. But people are mostly younger.

Price: If you get in early, S toke has some of the cheapest Croatia Sailing tours on the market. Check their deals below!

Floatilla-Style Croatia Sailing Tours

There is an increasing number of floatilla-style tours in Croatia each summer – the ones that sail with lots of smaller boats together. They are very different yet just as fun as doing Sail Croatia on bigger boats!

Floatillas do not travel as far (they either stay around Split or Dubrovnik or go one-way) and may have day and night stops. See the beginning of this article for more logistical information on how floatillas work. Here are a few main floatilla companies you can consider.

The Yacht Week

The Yacht Week is the Croatia sailing company that most Americans know about. The Yacht Week is glamorous and is known for its music, dj’s, and ‘exclusive parties.’ The Yacht Week definitely has a different vibe than a lot of tours, but a lot of the destinations and parties are still the same. They also have lots of tours centered around Ultra Europe music festival and Ultra Week in Croatia.

Yacht Week Clientele: The Yacht Week gets most American, Scandinavian/European, and South American clientele. The 8-10 person boats will be full of groups of friends from different places.

Party Level / Age Range: The Yacht Week is a massive party, but tends to be a more expensive one. Yacht week passengers always seem to buy tables at the fancy clubs and spend more money on what seems like a businessperson’s week off to have fun.

Med Sailors

Med Sailors is another of the biggest floatilla companies that sail Croatia – boats are about 8-10 people. They run great tours with great skippers who will also love to take guests out to the bars at night (always wearing their yellow and blue Med Sailors shirts – you can’t miss them!) I recommend doing one of their Split-Dubrovnik or Dubrovnik-Split tours so you can see more. 

Clientele/Party Level/ Age Range: Med Sailors also has a varied clientele of more English/Irish/Americans than many companies. The option to party is also always available, and people are usually young (18-35) but more mature.

MedSailors is a VERY popular option for those who want a smaller boat sailing in a flotilla that is still built for young people. It’s also generally more affordable than the Yacht Week. Medsailors tend to visit more offbeat destinations but still gets the good parties in.

Sail Croatia Tours for All Ages, the Older Passenger, or Families

Phew! Now that we have gotten through the Croatia sailing tours for young people, it may seem it is not possible to visit this country without a party, but that is far from true! There are loads of Croatia sailing tours that cater to different audiences- older people, families, bicyclers, even tennis players and vegans! I’m telling you – there’s something for everyone.

Remember to read above for descriptions of boats and facilities!

Croatia Sailing Companies: G Adventures

G Adventures is an extremely reputable tour company that runs tours all over the whole world. It’s no surprise that their Croatia product will be amazing as well. Their tours are for smaller groups (max 8 on smaller yachts) and run from April all the way until October.

Demographics: G Adventures tours are for 12-70-year-olds. Younger people may book out the boats for a private tour, but they’re also great for families or friends of any age. Their tours are one-way from Spit to Dubrovnik or vice versaa.

Sail Croatia Companies: Intrepid Travel + Peregrine Dalmatia Unique Tours

Intrepid is yet another world-renowned travel company (operating in all 7 continents, I believe!) who also run both small group tours and larger boat tours in Croatia. They run larger boat tours with Peregrine Adventures, another popular all-ages travel company.

The small-boat groups will be about 8-10 people as a single tour, and will stop at all sorts of islands on the way across the Adriatic. The larger boat tours will be similar in nature to all others I have described with groups of 30+.

Routes: Intrepid has come out with some incredible sailing tours in recent years. They have all the classic routes between Split and Dubrovnik (on both large and small boats) but have now have some of the the most unique routes of all these Croatia sailing tours – some tours sailing north of Split and even to Venice !

Demographics: Intrepid is listed as 15 to 99 year olds, so would be perfect for older families or groups of friends of any age who like to be a bit more low-key.

Smaller Boat Tours (Max 8 pax)

Split to Dubrovnik Sailing Tour with Intrepid Travel  OR Dubrovnik to Split Sailing Tour with Intrepid Travel

Larger Boat Tours (Max 31 pax) Run by Peregrine Dalmatia

For 1 standard week, I recommend their Dubrovnik to Split route, but Peregrine offers more unique locations than other Croatia sailing trips. To sail NORTH from Split to Zadar , Kornati, and a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park, check out their Central Coast Tour from Split.

They also have a VERY unique 15-day Dubrovnik to Venice tour (with partial bus transfer) with stops in Mostar and Northern Croatia destinations such as Krk, Opatija, and Rab (which no other sails visit).

Croatia Sailing Companies: Kompas

Kompas is one of the Adriatic’s premiere luxury travel companies. Perfect for families or people of any age, Kompas Tours has a minimum of 5-8 years of age and a maximum of 80. These tours will be on the nicest A+ category ships, and your every need will be catered to!

Kompas has more unique routes, and has tours going as far north as Zadar. Many tours will have daytime and nighttime stops to cover more ground in the same amount of time – 8 days. These tours move FAST and see A LOT.

Many boats will have small pools/jacuzzis onboard and premium space to relax on lounge chairs or eat meals in style. These are the ridiculously nice boats that other people just gape at. You can see all information about the boat before you book a tour!

Here are my most recommended Kompas Croatia sailing tours, the Split to Split North Route with Krka and Kornati National Parks, and the regular Split to Dubrovnik Sail:

Croatia Sailing Companies: My Croatia Cruise

My Croatia Cruise offers Croatia Cruise tours you can book a spot on, OR charter of your own small cruise ship. Whether you’d like to jump on a tour with other passengers with a set route from Dubrovnik, Split, or Opatija, or charter your own boat and crew, this company is a great option.

Unique Croatia Sailing Tours: Different Themes

Here are some Croatia sailing trips with a certain focus, like hiking, tennis, or vegan food.

Croatia Bike Tours: Art of Bicycle Trips

Art of Bicycle Trips is a leading bike tour operator running bike tours (and also hiking, kayaking, and more) in over a dozen destinations across three continents. All their bike tours have a special focus on local and cultural experiences and involve zooming around the country on two wheels between destinations, seeing each from a unique perspective.

They are a highly rated company that has been featured in multiple publications, but their Croatia bike tours are especially epic.

In Croatia, their Island Hopping bike tour from Split to Dubrovnik allows guests get to bike across three islands — Brač, Hvar, and Korčula — in addition to Split and Dubrovnik. At the beginning of each day, you sail with your bikes on the boat to the next island, then spend the rest of the day exploring the island on a bike. Imagine exploring olive groves in Brač, fields of lavender in Hvar, and visiting Marco Polo’s home in Korčula. An expert local guide and a support vehicle accompany guests at all times. 

Croatia Sailing Companies: Go Croatia Sail Tennis Cruise

Yep, that’s right: a tennis cruise. This Split to Split cruise is focused specifically on playing tennis in different places in Croatia! It’s only one specific week in June, so if you are a tennis person get in it now (I actually can’t get over the cover picture on this tour with everyone and their tennis rackets!) 😛

Book your Tennis Croatia Sailing Tour

Did you think I was kidding when I said there was a Vegan Cruise?

You thought wrong! This raw vegan cruise takes place during the first week of August in Croatia on a very nice boat, and has yoga classes and lectures on veganism. What will be next?!

Think A Croatia Sailing Tour isn’t for You? Charter Your Own Boat!

If you’re still a bit iffy after reading about all these different kinds of Croatia sailing tours, I have the perfect solution for you: charter your own yacht! If you’ve got the budget and want the privacy, this is definitely the most luxurious option of all.

Head over to Sailo to charter a boat for you and your friends/family/group that meets your needs.

PHEW! That was a lot of Croatia Sailing Tours. Overwhelmed? I would be too. Feel free to send me an email at [email protected] if you need help sifting through all this information to find out which sail Croatia tour is right for you. Or, book a trip on Fjaka Sail and I’ll be there in person to help you.

Just use deductive reasoning: figure out if you want a young person tour or not, a floatilla or not, a smaller 8-person boat or a larger 30+ person boat with a chef/aircon, if you want something super luxurious or something cheaper, and finally if you want a specialty cruise (hiking, biking, tennis) or something… normal.

This should narrow things down, but. if you want my recommendation, go with a bigger and more luxurious boat with a one-way route! Enjoy your week sailing in Croatia!

Wednesday 19th of February 2020

Hi, i am struggling to find any information about Fanatics sail Croatia tour, i am hesitant to book as i don't want to be ripped off! Would you know where i could find up to date information? Thank you!! :)

Hey Alex!! The last time I was in contact with fantatics tours was a few years ago but they were going as strong as ever! I knew some of their guides in '15-'17 and some of my friends had a great time on their tour. If you are worried however try some of the other companies I recommended in this post - like Travel Talk (if you are worried about the price point) or Busabout/Topdeck (if you want the option of bigger boats). Hope this helped!

Travel to the Balkans – 14-Day Road Trip Itinerary (Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro)

Wednesday 14th of November 2018

[…] visitors to Split arrive here by boat. One of the great ways to experience the city is by taking a Croatia sailing tour that will also take you to Dubrovnik. This is a great alternative to renting a car and driving in […]

Wednesday 7th of November 2018

Hiiii! This was genuinely one of the best articles I’ve read and exactly what I was looking for. Out of curiosity, how did you end up working for Sail Croatia and bus about?

Friday 9th of November 2018

Hi Brooklyn!! That makes me SO happy to read and so glad you got some great info from it! :) Which one are you thinking to book? I actually worked for Topdeck, and I got the job by simply applying for it when I lived in London. Their head Europe office is in London so I interviewed there. My advice would be to check up on the job postings often if you would like to do it!

Croatia Travel Guide: Top Tips and Best Destinations

Saturday 27th of October 2018

[…] islands at once is taking a sailing tour- Check out Adventure n’ Sunset‘s post on Croatia Sailing Tours for all the information you’ll […]

Friday 4th of May 2018

What a great article! What about sailweekcroatia.com? Do you have any experience with that company?

Hey Amanda! Thank you! :) I have definitely seen that company around in Croatia and they seem to be great also! I would say they're similar and a bit smaller than MedSailors, with a few smaller floatilla-style boats/tours!

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5-day itinerary for sailing in Croatia

Are you ready to discover the beautiful gem of the Mediterranean? Croatia is a country waiting for you to explore its rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

So, pack your bags and experience the magic of Croatia – you won’t be disappointed!

5-day Itinerary for Sailing in Croatia

Come sail the crystal-clear waters of Croatia with Sebastus on a 5-day adventure!

During your trip, you can expect a mix of relaxation and exploration. Each day, you will set sail to a new destination, stopping at secluded beaches along the way. You’ll have a chance to swim in the Adriatic Sea, explore the island villages and their historical sites and landmarks, sample local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Croatia.

Seize the opportunity to participate in various activities, such as stand-up paddleboarding and snorkelling. Sailing for five days in Croatia is the perfect vacation for anyone looking to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Our experienced crew will be on hand to ensure that your journey is comfortable and enjoyable and to provide recommendations for things to see and do along the way.

Recommended Tours

The north of Croatia has a long coastline on the Adriatic Sea, and Kvarner is a popular destination for sailing. There are several marinas and ports in the region that offer facilities for yachts. Some popular destinations for sailing in the north of Croatia include the islands of Cres, Lošinj, Rab, and Krk, as well as the cities of Rijeka, Opatija, and Novi Vinodolski.

When visiting the islands, here’s what you can see:

• Lake Vrana on Cres Island – a freshwater lake with a diverse array of flora and fauna
• Valun, Cres – a small village with a beautiful, pebbled beach and a 15th-century church
• Mali Lošinj on Lošinj Island – a city known for its promenade and health tourism
• Ilovik Island – a small island off the coast of Lošinj with amazing Przine and Parknu beaches
• Rab Town on Rab Island – the main town with charming old streets
• Kamenjak, Rab – a rocky peninsula at the southern end of the island
• Biserujka Cave on Krk Island – a cave with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites
• Košljun Island – a Franciscan monastery with a collection of ethnographic and sacral artifacts, located on a small island off Krk Island

Zadar is known for its historic old town, beautiful beaches, and clear waters. Visitors can explore the old town and its many landmarks, such as the Roman Forum, the St. Donatus Church, and the Sea Organ – an architectural and musical attraction located on the city’s waterfront, which creates music using the waves of the sea.

The Kornati Islands are the main island attraction in the Zadar region. They are known for their clear waters, rocky cliffs, and diverse flora and fauna. Make sure to explore the many small coves and bays on the islands, and the remains of ancient settlements and shipwrecks. The National Park Kornati is the main attraction on the islands and offers hiking trails, lookout points, and guided tours. Other islands where you can have a tailored vacation and spend time sunbathing on beautiful beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters, hiking, fishing, and enjoying local cuisine are Dugi Otok, Ist, Molat, Sestrunj, Ugljan, and Pašman.

Šibenik is a historic city located in Croatia on the Adriatic coast. It is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque Old Town, which is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. James Cathedral. Nearby attractions include the Krka National Park, known for its waterfalls and natural beauty. If you want to go island-hopping, there are several islands worth your time sailing in Šibenik.

The history of Krapanj Island is closely tied to the sea, and it is known for its tradition of sponge diving, which dates to the 18th century. Visitors can explore the island’s sponge workshops and learn about the history of sponge diving. The island also has a small museum dedicated to the island’s history and culture. Coral harvesting was a major industry on Zlarin Island and is still practiced today. Explore the island’s coral workshops and learn about the history of coral harvesting. A small museum is also dedicated to the island’s coral harvesting tradition. Choose your yacht and visit other islands in the Šibenik area: Prvić, Murter, Kaprije, Zmajan, Kakan, and Žirje.

Split is home to the ancient Roman Palace of Diocletian, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major attraction for visitors. The palace’s well-preserved ruins and narrow streets offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Along with the palace, Split also boasts several other historical sites, such as the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, the Bell Tower of Saint Domnius, and the Ethnographic Museum Split. Split is a great starting point for island-hopping to nearby islands such as Hvar, Brač, and Šolta.

Brač Island is the largest island in the central Dalmatian group of islands. Bol, a town on the island’s southern coast, is home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach, which is a must-see for tourists. Hvar Island is home to a 13th-century fortress, a beautiful main square, and the oldest public theater in Europe. Šolta Island is a less crowded island known for its beautiful beaches, olive groves, and small villages. It is also an excellent place for hiking and cycling.

Dubrovnik is known for its well-preserved Old Town, encircled by massive stone walls completed in the 16th century. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an important tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world. The city is also a popular filming location for the Game of Thrones series.

The nearby Elaphiti Islands , just a short boat ride from Dubrovnik, offer a glimpse into a quieter and more laid-back way of life. The islands, including Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan, offer beautiful beaches, clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, and picturesque villages to explore.

Overall, Dubrovnik and nearby islands offer a unique blend of history, culture, and nature, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.

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Boat types for a perfect sailing vacation in Croatia

Picking out the type of boat to go with will generally come down to your budget, and preferred method of sailing.

Not sure which one is suitable for you? Talk to our team and get professional suggestions and ideas for your romantic sailing trip.

Sailing boat

Suitable for active and adventurous couples. If you and your loved one wish to experience real sailing then this is the right boat for you! Offered in all-inclusive and self-catered options.

Catamarans provide comfort and a smoother sailing experience than the sailing boat. Perfect for couples that enjoy sightseeing, swimming, sunbathing and relaxing. Offered in all-inclusive or self-catered option.

Motor yacht

Luxury type of holidays with fully crewed service. A wide range of water toys is available for added fun.

The best time to visit Croatia depends on your preferences and what you want to do while you are there. If you want to spend time on the beach and enjoy warm weather, the best time to visit is from June to September, when temperatures are typically in the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-30 degrees Celsius), and the weather is generally stable, with little chance of storms. If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of April, May, and October may be a good time for sailing in Croatia , but the winds can be strong in the spring and fall, making sailing more challenging.

It is possible to have an enjoyable sailing trip in Croatia in five days, but it will depend on your plans and what you want to see and do. Croatia has a long coastline and numerous islands, so there are many options for sailing trips. If you only have five days, you should focus on a specific region or area rather than trying to cover too much ground. Overall, a 5-day sailing trip in Croatia can be a great way to explore some of the country’s most beautiful coastal regions and experience the charm of the Croatian islands.

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Check out what our guests said about their experience sailing with us. Our guests satisfaction is our main priority.

“The sailing trip was just fantastic! Thank you for organizing! It was really great! A large share of course goes to the skipper Marco.

“I had a chance to spend a wonderful week of sailing in Croatia. Everything went smoothly and was well organized. I highly recommend it  and I would gladly do it again.”

“We spent a great week sailing in Croatia as a family. Thanks to our skipper Korado we got to know beautiful beaches, snorkeling paradises, beautiful landscapes and friendly villages. It was a super relaxed family vacation! 🤩”

“We loved our week aboard a sailing boat. The company is very organized and it was super easy to book the trip the way we wanted. It’s a very personalised service. Our skipper, Filip, was very nice and helpful”

“It was a wonderful trip with beautiful bays and beaches. It was a pleasure to spend this week on a sailboat. All staff and skipper are very friendly and organized. Everything was perfect.”

“Vesna and the Team have been helpful from day1 in accommodating our requests and always made sure throughout the process to satisfy our needs. Would definitely recommend the company!!”

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Croatia Sailing Holidays & Cruises by Funky Tours

Set sail on an unforgettable journey with our Croatia sailing tours, where the azure Adriatic Sea meets the charm of Croatian coastlines. Experience a blend of scenic beauty, historic landscapes, and vibrant culture aboard our exclusive sailing adventures.

Ideal for both relaxation and exploration, our Croatia Sailing page offers tailored itineraries, showcasing the best of Croatia’s islands, hidden bays, and picturesque ports. Join us for a unique sailing experience, perfect for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility in the heart of the Mediterranean.

Sailing Itineraries

Escape to the pristine beauty of the Adriatic Sea with Funky Tours’ exclusive catamaran sailing adventures. Embark on a journey that seamlessly blends relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments in the heart of Croatia.

Explore our shared and private sailing opportunities covering the best of Croatian Adriatic waters.

4-Day Sailing Odyssey in Šibenik Archipelago

Join our Croatia sailing odyssey via Kornati National Park, Zlarin, Prvić Kaprije & Tijat islands. Explore Šibenik, Skradin with Krka National Park. Four days and three nights of joy and sailing adventure on a 13m stunning catamaran.

Private 7-Day Croatian Sailing Adventure

Explore Central and North Dalmatia at your own pace on a private sailing tour. Visit the captivating National Parks of Kornati and Krka, and discover tranquil islands including Zlarin, Kaprije, Murter, Veli Iž and Dugi Otok.

Croatian 10-Day Adriatic Summer Dream

Embark on a captivating 10-day adventure as you explore the historic wonders of Dubrovnik & Split, seamlessly combining 6 days of ground exploration with 4 days of Croatia Sailing escapade to Kornati NP, Zlarin, and Šibenik Archipelago.

Looking for Croatia's sailing advice?

Our experts are here to help you plan your perfect trip. We do it better than the AI.

Our Croatia Sailing Blog

At Funky Tours, we are passionate about sharing the beauty and excitement of sailing in Croatia. Our blog is a reflection of our love for this stunning country, offering insights, tips, and stories that highlight the wonders of the Croatian coast.

Through our unique perspective, we aim to inspire and promote sailing adventures that showcase the breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant experiences that Croatia has to offer.

Join us as we explore and celebrate the magic of Croatia sailing.

Reasons to Sail the Šibenik Archipelago and Kornati National Park

Set sail on an unforgettable Croatia Sailing journey through the mesmerizing Šibenik archipelago, where the pristine islands of Zlarin, Kaprije, and Prvić, the captivating Krka Canyon, the charming town of Skradin, and the majestic Kornati National Park await.

What to Expect

In our Adriatic Sailing Adventures, we weave meticulous attention into every facet of your journey. With a curated approach, we carefully consider every guest, aiming to meet and always exceed expectations. Welcome to a realm where every moment is carefully crafted for your delight.

Intimate Voyages Discover state-of-the-art, small-group voyages for maximum comfort. Uncover hidden Adriatic gems in an intimate setting.

Fair Pricing Experience fair pricing on our exceptional voyages. Small-group adventures ensure maximum value for your journey.

Off-the-beaten-path Our sailing adventures are designed for an intimate experience, guiding you to explore secluded, hidden spots far from bustling tourist areas.

Diverse Experiences Explore a variety of experiences beyond sailing. Our sailing philosophy guarantees a mix of cultural gems and thrilling activities.

Standard Inclusions

Immerse yourself in the epitome of luxury with our standard list of inclusions on both shared and private Croatia Sailing adventures. From shared voyages to private escapades, we curate an unparalleled Adriatic experience. Should you desire a touch of exclusivity, our team stands ready to turn your special requests into extraordinary moments.

Accommodation Stay in private, en suite cabins (AC) Linen & towels included Single supplement available

Food Inclusions International breakfast Lunch on board Restaurant dinner (not included)

Logistics Included Experienced skipper/captain All mooring/marina costs WiFi, SUP, BBQ & dinghy

Stunning Activities Swimming & Snorkeling Hiking, Kayaking & Paddling Wine, Olive oil & Oyster tasting

Private Croatia Sailing Voyages

Our Private Croatia Sailing service is tailored for those seeking an exclusive and personalized sailing experience along the stunning Croatian coast. This service promises a voyage like no other. Whether you’re a group of friends, a family, or a corporate team, our private yacht charters offer a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and exploration.

Selection of Boats Choose from our carefully curated fleet, ranging from standard sailing yachts accommodating 6 persons to luxurious catamarans capable of hosting up to 12 individuals. Each vessel is meticulously maintained, offering the perfect blend of performance and comfort for an unparalleled sailing experience.

Services Available Sail effortlessly with our Private Croatia Sailing service. Our skilled skippers navigate crystal-clear waters, leaving you to unwind. Customize your dream voyage, indulge in gourmet food options, and trust us to fulfill any special requests, creating a uniquely exceptional journey.

Nature of Events Ignite team spirit with unique team-building events, celebrate upcoming nuptials with unforgettable maritime bachelor parties, reconnect with friends in an exclusive and laid-back environment, or create lasting family memories against the backdrop of Croatia’s breathtaking coast.

Additional Enhancements Enjoy onboard activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, or fishing for an enriched voyage. Collaborate with local businesses for exclusive shore excursions, wine tastings, or cultural experiences, adding a distinctive touch to your journey. Capture every moment and scenic vista with professional photography services, ensuring memories last a lifetime.

Our Sailing Fleet

The Leopard 44 is a luxurious and spacious catamaran designed for the ultimate sailing experience. With modern design elements and state-of-the-art amenities, this 44-foot (12.98m) vessel offers a perfect blend of performance and comfort.

Accommodating up to 10 guests, the catamaran boasts four en-suite, air-con cabins, providing privacy and relaxation.

Its open and airy layout includes a stylish saloon, fully equipped galley, and a generous cockpit for socializing. The Leopard 44 is renowned for its stability and ease of handling, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned sailors and those new to the seas.

Guests Testimonials

Here, at our Guest Testimonials page you’ll find feedback from travelers who have experienced our Croatia Sailing adventures.

Discover their stories and see why sailing with Funky Tours is a truly unforgettable experience. Hit the play and hear firsthand accounts of the stunning destinations, authentic experiences, and exceptional service that make our sailing tours so special.

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Why should you book your Croatia sailing trip with Funky Tours?

At Funky Tours, we believe that a sailing adventure should be more than just a journey – it should be an extraordinary and personalized experience. Here’s why choosing us for your Croatia sailing trip is the right decision:

Passion for Sailing:  We don’t just organize sailing trips; we live and breathe the sea. Our team is genuinely passionate about sailing, and this passion is reflected in every aspect of the trips we curate. Expect an authentic love for the sea, the wind in your sails, and the thrill of exploration.

Unique Trip Crafting:  Our commitment to excellence means that we design each sailing trip as if we were crafting it for ourselves. We understand that every traveler is unique, and our goal is to create an adventure that resonates with your preferences, ensuring an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations:  While others stick to the well-trodden routes, we take you to the hidden gems along the Croatian Adriatic Coastline. Explore secluded coves, untouched landscapes, and discover the charm of destinations that aren’t on the typical tourist radar.

Perfect Mix of Serenity and Bustle:  We understand the importance of balance. That’s why our itineraries seamlessly blend off-the-beaten-path destinations with those a bit more busy and touristy. This unique mix allows you to savor moments of tranquility while still enjoying the vibrancy of popular spots.

Tailored Experiences:  Whether you’re an adventurous solo traveler, a romantic couple, or a family seeking quality time, our trips cater to a diverse range of interests. From shared sails to fully customizable private adventures, we tailor each experience to meet your desires.

When you sail with Funky Tours, you’re not just booking a trip; you’re embarking on a carefully crafted, passion-infused adventure that promises to leave you with unforgettable memories. Join us for a journey that transcends the ordinary and celebrates the spirit of exploration!

What sets Funky Tours' sailing adventures apart from others?

Discovery Over Partying:  While some sailing trips may emphasize a party atmosphere, our focus is on discovery. We believe in creating experiences that allow you to connect with the beauty of the Croatian Adriatic Coastline, explore hidden treasures, and appreciate the serenity of the sea.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration:  Many tour operators follow well-established routes, but we take you off the beaten path. Our itineraries are designed to unveil the lesser-known gems along the coast, providing a genuine and unspoiled experience that goes beyond the tourist hotspots.

Comfortable, Private Experiences:  Our sailing adventures are not just about exploration; they are about comfort and privacy. Whether you’re on a shared sail or a private charter, expect private, air-conditioned cabins, ensuring a comfortable retreat after a day of adventure.

Tailored to Your Preferences:  We understand that every traveler is unique. That’s why our sailing adventures are not one-size-fits-all. We take the time to understand your preferences, allowing us to tailor each trip to your liking. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape or an active exploration, we’ve got you covered.

Catamaran Comfort:  We prefer catamarans for our sailing adventures. The unique design of catamarans provides stability, ample space, and a smoother sailing experience. Enjoy the luxury of panoramic views, spacious decks, and modern amenities on board.

Flexible Booking Options:  Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a small group of friends, our booking options are flexible. Join a shared sail for a social experience, or opt for a private charter for an exclusive adventure tailored to your group’s dynamics.

Engaging Activities:  Our sailing adventures aren’t just about sailing; they’re about engaging activities. From swimming and snorkeling to hiking, kayaking, and even wine, olive oil, and oyster tasting, each day brings a new adventure and a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture.

In essence, Funky Tours’ sailing adventures are a blend of authenticity, comfort, and exploration. We invite you to join us on a journey where discovery takes precedence, and every moment is crafted to make your experience truly memorable.

What Kind of Croatia Sailing Adventures Does Funky Tours Offer?

At Funky Tours, we understand that every traveler has unique preferences and desires when it comes to a sailing adventure. That’s why we offer two distinctive types of sailing trips:

Shared Sail Croatia Adventures:

• Fixed Itinerary:  Our shared Sail Croatia adventures follow a fixed itinerary, carefully curated to showcase the best of the Croatian Adriatic Coastline. This ensures that you won’t miss out on any of the must-see destinations and experiences.
• Book One Cabin:  Travelers have the option to book just one cabin for either a 3-day or 7-day shared sailing adventure. This is a fantastic opportunity for solo travelers or couples looking to join a social group and experience the thrill of sailing at minimum costs.
• Shared Experiences:  Join fellow adventurers from around the world to share the magic of discovery, create lasting friendships, and enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded individuals.

Private Sail Croatia Adventures:

• Full Control:  For those seeking a more personalized and private experience, our private Sail Croatia adventures are the perfect choice. You have full control over the itinerary, inclusions, and other important aspects of the sail. Customize the journey to align perfectly with your preferences.
• Tailored Itineraries:  Work closely with our team to craft a sailing itinerary that suits your interests, whether it’s focusing on secluded coves, cultural exploration, or specific activities. The flexibility of a private adventure ensures that every moment is precisely as you envision.
• Exclusive Experience:  Enjoy the privacy and exclusivity of sailing with just your chosen group, whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure with close friends. Revel in the freedom to create memories in your own unique way.

Whether you choose the shared Sail Croatia adventure for its social aspect and cost-effectiveness or opt for the private Sail Croatia adventure for a bespoke journey, Funky Tours ensures that your sailing experience is tailored to your preferences. Join us for a sailing adventure that suits your style and allows you to explore the Adriatic in a way that feels just right for you.

What logistics are included in Funky Tours' shared sailing adventures?

1. Accommodation:

• Stay in Private, Air-Con, En Suite Cabins:  Enjoy the comfort of private cabins equipped with air-conditioning and en-suite facilities. Your personal space ensures a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.
• Linen & Towels Included:  We provide all the essentials, including fresh linen and towels, so you can travel light and focus on the adventure.
• Single Supplement Available:  For solo travelers or those seeking additional privacy, a single supplement option is available to have a private cabin.

2. Food Inclusions:

• International Breakfast:  Start your day right with a delicious continental breakfast, setting the tone for the adventures ahead.
• Lunch On Board: Enjoy the flexibility of a lunch on board. Optionally go for traditional Croatian seafood restaurants with our carefully chosen recommendations.
• Restaurant Dinner (Not Included):  While dinner is not included, we encourage you to explore local restaurants and experience the diverse culinary offerings of the regions you visit.

3. Logistics Included:

• Experienced Skipper/Captain:  Your sailing adventure is guided by an experienced skipper/captain who not only navigates the waters skillfully but also shares insights into the destinations you explore.
• All Mooring/Marina Costs:  Leave the logistics to us. All mooring and marina costs are included, ensuring a seamless journey from one captivating destination to the next.
• WiFi, SUP, BBQ & Dinghy:  Stay connected with onboard WiFi, enjoy the thrill of Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP), indulge in a barbecue experience, and use the dinghy for easy exploration.

4. Stunning Activities:

• Swimming & Snorkeling:  Immerse yourself in the clear waters of the Adriatic with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling at picturesque locations.
• Hiking, Kayaking & Paddling:  Explore the coastal landscapes through various activities, from scenic hikes to kayaking and paddling adventures.
• Wine, Olive Oil & Oyster Tasting:  Delight your senses with unique experiences, including wine tasting, olive oil sampling, and savoring fresh oysters.

Our classic sails are crafted to provide maximum comfort, memorable activities, and a well-rounded experience. From accommodation to culinary delights and exciting activities, we ensure that every aspect of your sailing adventure is thoughtfully planned for an unforgettable journey.

How experienced are the skippers/captains on Funky Tours' sailing trips?

Highly Experienced Professionals:

• Our skippers and captains are not just professionals; they are seasoned experts in the field of sailing. Each member of our crew brings a wealth of experience, having navigated the intricate waters of the Croatian Adriatic for years.

Passionate About Sailing:

• Beyond their professional expertise, our skippers and captains share a genuine passion for sailing. This enthusiasm is infectious, creating an atmosphere where everyone on board, from seasoned sailors to first-time adventurers, can fully appreciate the beauty and thrill of sailing.

Intimate Knowledge of Croatian Waters:

• Knowing the waters intimately is crucial for a safe and enjoyable sailing experience. Our skippers and captains possess extensive knowledge of the Croatian coastline, including both popular destinations and hidden gems. This ensures that your journey is not only safe but also enriched with insights into the local culture, history, and natural wonders.

Safety is a Top Priority:

• Safety is paramount on Funky Tours’ sailing trips. Our skippers undergo rigorous training and hold the necessary certifications to navigate the Adriatic. They are well-versed in emergency procedures, weather patterns, and all aspects of ensuring a secure voyage for our guests.

Commitment to Guest Enjoyment:

• The primary goal of our skippers/captains is to ensure that you have a fantastic and memorable experience. They are not just navigators; they are hosts who are committed to creating an atmosphere of relaxation, adventure, and camaraderie on board.

Personalized Guidance:

• Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a first-time adventurer, our skippers provide personalized guidance. They are happy to share their knowledge of sailing techniques, provide insights into the destinations you visit, and even offer hands-on experiences for those eager to participate in sailing activities.

Responsive and Adaptive:

• Sailing can be influenced by various factors, including weather conditions. Our skippers are adept at making real-time decisions to ensure your safety and comfort. Their adaptability and responsiveness contribute to a seamless and enjoyable journey.

When you sail with Funky Tours, you are not just accompanied by skilled navigators; you are in the hands of individuals who are deeply passionate about sharing the magic of the sea with you. Trust in the expertise of our skippers and captains as they guide you through an unforgettable sailing adventure along the stunning Croatian coast.

Can I book just one cabin for a shared sailing adventure?

Absolutely! We offer the flexibility for guests to book just one cabin on our shared sailing adventures, providing a great opportunity for solo travelers or couples. Some cabins are 2+1 or 2+2 capacity, so if you need more information on cabin size and capacity, feel free to contact us directly.

What is the duration of the typical sailing adventure with Funky Tours?

Our standard shared sailing adventures can be booked for either 3 or 7 days, allowing guests to choose the duration that best fits their schedule and preferences.

We understand that not all of our guests have a week to spare on sailing, that is why we have created 3-day / 3-night sailing itinerary, such as our 3-Day Sail Croatia Odyssey in Kornati National Park & Šibenik Archipelago , which is ideal itinerary to maximise your Sail Croatia experience in just three days.

On the other side, our private Croatian sailing adventures can be booked as one-week or multi-week itinerary. Feel free to reach us out , and we are happy to give you all the necessary information needed.

Can I customize a private sailing trip with Funky Tours?

Absolutely.

Total Freedom in Trip Planning:

• Yes, absolutely! At Funky Tours, we believe that your sailing adventure should be as unique as you are. With our private sailing trips, you have total freedom to plan your own itinerary. Whether you have specific destinations in mind or wish to explore hidden gems known only to locals, the choice is yours.

Choose the Boat That Suits You Best:

• Tailor your experience by choosing the boat that aligns with your preferences. Whether it’s a spacious catamaran for added comfort or a classic sailing yacht for a more traditional experience, the decision is in your hands. Select the vessel that enhances your journey and complements your vision of the perfect sailing adventure.

Bring Your Own Food and Logistics:

• For the ultimate flexibility, our private sailing trips allow you to bring your own food and beverages. Whether you have specific dietary preferences or want to curate a menu that reflects your tastes, you have the freedom to plan your culinary experience on board. This also extends to other logistics, giving you control over additional arrangements to make your journey uniquely yours.

Personalize Inclusions and Experiences:

• Customize your private sailing trip by choosing the inclusions that matter most to you. From specific activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking to unique experiences like wine tastings or cultural excursions, every aspect of your journey can be tailored to create the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Flexible Duration and Departure Times:

• Enjoy the flexibility of choosing the duration of your private sailing trip. Whether you prefer a shorter getaway or an extended exploration, we work with you to create a schedule that suits your timeframe. Additionally, departure times can be adjusted to align with your preferences, ensuring a stress-free and leisurely start to your adventure.

Expert Guidance and Support:

• While you have the freedom to customize every aspect, our team is here to provide expert guidance and support. We leverage our knowledge of the Adriatic and sailing logistics to assist you in planning an itinerary that maximizes your experience and ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Embark on a private sailing trip with Funky Tours and revel in the freedom to shape every detail according to your desires. It’s not just a trip; it’s your personally curated sailing adventure along the stunning Croatian coast.

Is there an age limit for participants on Funky Tours' sailing adventures?

Inclusivity Across Age Groups:

• At Funky Tours, we believe that adventure knows no age limits. Our sailing adventures are designed to cater to a wide range of age groups, ensuring that solo travelers, couples, families, and small groups of all ages can embark on a memorable journey.

Solo Travelers and Couples:

• Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking a personal escape or a couple looking for a romantic sailing experience, our adventures are crafted to provide an intimate and enjoyable atmosphere. Join a shared sail for a social experience or opt for a private charter for a more exclusive getaway.

Families and Small Groups:

• Families and small groups are welcome aboard! Our sailing adventures offer a fantastic opportunity for families to bond over shared experiences and create lasting memories. The flexibility of our trips allows small groups of friends to embark on an adventure tailored to their dynamics.

No Strict Age Limit:

• There is no strict age limit for participants on Funky Tours’ sailing adventures. Whether you’re an adventurous teenager, a young adult, or a seasoned traveler, our goal is to create an inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy the beauty of the Croatian Adriatic Coastline.

Memorable Experiences for Everyone:

• The emphasis on our sailing adventures is not just on the destinations but on the experiences. From swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to exploring hidden coves and engaging in various activities, every moment is crafted to provide joy and excitement, regardless of age.

Safety as a Top Priority:

• While there is no strict age limit, safety is a top priority on our sailing adventures. Our experienced skippers and captains are trained to ensure the well-being of all participants, and the activities are designed with safety in mind.

Diverse Activities for All Ages:

• Whether it’s a relaxing swim, an adventurous hike, or a delightful tasting experience, the variety of activities ensures that there’s something for everyone. The diverse nature of our trips caters to different interests and energy levels.

Embark on a sailing adventure with Funky Tours, where age is not a limitation but an opportunity to create diverse and enriching experiences for travelers of all ages. Join us for a journey that transcends generational boundaries and celebrates the spirit of exploration!

What should I pack for a sailing adventure with Funky Tours?

1. Clothing:

• Lightweight and Breathable Clothes: Pack comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Light fabrics like cotton and linen work well.
• Swimwear: Bring multiple swimsuits to ensure you always have a dry one available.
• Casual Outfits: Include casual wear for evenings and any onshore activities.

2. Footwear:

• Non-Slip Deck Shoes or Sandals: Comfortable, non-slip footwear is essential for moving around the boat. Deck shoes or sandals with a good grip are recommended.
• Flip-Flops or Sandals: For easy on and off when you’re on the beach or swimming.

3. Accessories:

• Hat: A wide-brimmed hat or a cap to protect your face from the sun.
• Sunglasses: UV protection sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun’s glare.
• Lightweight Scarf or Sarong: Useful for covering up in the sun or as a beach cover-up.

4. Sun Protection:

• Sunscreen: High SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. Ensure it’s reef-safe if you plan to swim in environmentally sensitive areas.
• After-Sun Care: Aloe vera or an after-sun lotion to soothe sun-exposed skin.

5. Personal Items:

• Personal Hygiene Products: Travel-sized toiletries, toothbrush, toothpaste, and any personal care items you may need.
• Prescription Medications: Ensure you have an ample supply of any prescription medications you require.

6. Electronics and Accessories:

• Waterproof Phone Case: Protect your phone from water splashes and ensure you can capture memories.
• Power Bank: Keep your devices charged, especially if you’re relying on them for navigation or capturing photos.

7. Snorkeling and Water Gear:

• Snorkeling Gear: If you have your own snorkeling gear and prefer to use it, bring it along. Otherwise, it may be provided by Funky Tours.
• Beach Towel: A quick-drying towel for use on the boat or onshore.

8. Entertainment and Reading:

• Books, E-Reader, or Kindle: Enjoy some downtime with a good book or your favorite e-reads.
• Playing Cards or Games: Bring along some entertainment for evenings on the boat.

9. Reusable Water Bottle:

• Stay hydrated by bringing a reusable water bottle. Some boats may have a refill station.

10. Personal Snacks:

• Pack some personal snacks or favorite treats for the journey.

11. Travel Documents:

• Passport, Visa, and any required travel documents.
• Copy of Travel Insurance: Ensure you have a copy of your travel insurance policy.

12. Detailed Packing Guidelines:

• Funky Tours will provide detailed packing guidelines upon booking, including any specific items you may need based on the itinerary and activities planned.

Remember to pack efficiently and keep it light, as storage space on a boat can be limited. Tailor your packing list to the specific itinerary and activities of your sailing adventure with Funky Tours. Enjoy your journey on the Adriatic!

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Croatia Sailing Holidays

Skippered Sailing Holidays for 20 to 30 Somethings

The world’s most popular sailing holidays destination

Experience an unforgettable 7 days as you set sail around the most breathtaking islands Croatia has to offer. We have three routes to suit any style, choose the ultimate way you want to feel the beauty of Croatia.

Live like a local

Discover new culture, try local cuisine, explore awesome destinations and their best-kept secrets.

Own the night

Experience the best of local nightlife. Enjoy sundowner drinks or dance til dawn for unforgettable nights.

Relax & Unwind

Take time out to enjoy beautiful scenery and picturesque landscapes. Rejuvenate, relax and unwind.

Your Wellbeing

Our WTTC accreditation means we’re a company which has adopted global health and hygiene protocols.

Croatia Sailing Tours

Zlatni Rat Beach

Hora Farm Vineyard

Hvar Old Town

• Croatia Discovery

Experience the best of what Croatia has to offer on our most popular sailing route. Taking you to eight enchanting towns on six unique islands, this is the trip of a lifetime. Get ready for Croatia to steal your heart.

Dubrovnik Old Town

Mljet National Park

Cycle Mljet National Park

Korčula Old Town

Croatia Dubrovnik Voyager

Journey back in time as you sail to historical places and immerse yourself in local culture. Enjoy the perfect mix of leisure and fun as you take in the natural beauty around you, exploring both popular and beautifully secluded Croatian islands.

Church of the Good Shepherd, Mljet National Park

Korcula Old Town

Croatia Split Voyager

Switch off & relax as we spend leisurely days at sea navigating to well known & remote islands of the Adriatic. Explore old towns, uncover history, experience Croatian cuisine & meet friendly locals as you explore truly breathtaking places.

SAVE BIG THIS SUMMER

Book our new Economy Yacht and save up to 25% on your sailing trip

Popular Trips

Departs Dubrovnik

Greece Ionian Discovery

Departs Corfu

Departs Split

Greece Saronic Voyager

Departs Athens

• Turkey Voyager

Departs Fethiye

NEED HELP PLANNING YOUR TRIP?

Book a call with a member of our team and let us help you plan an epic sailing vacation

• Split Voyager
• Dubrovnik Voyager
• Ionian Discovery
• Saronic Voyager
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• Sailing Route Guides
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9:00am - 5:30pm

22 Bardsley Lane Greenwich

London SE10 9RF UK

+44 20 3637 0071

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Cycle and Sail Along the Croatian Coast

Croatia is where the mountainous Balkans meet the airy elegance of the Mediterranean. At the heart of this juncture is the coastal region of Dalmatia, whose storied history and unspoiled nature infuse life with a balmy breeziness you can’t help but love.

Over 1,000 islands spill out from the Adriatic to form the Croatian archipelago—each one its own blend of language and culture, food and flora. For eight days, you’ll sail from one picturesque locale to the next in search of pine-scented scenery in which to cycle, sightsee, and soak up the summer vibes.

Small country, big opportunities

Although Croatia only spans around 22,000 square miles, it boasts one of the most indented coastlines in Europe. Each island you’ll visit possesses its own unique character, culture, and ecosystem.

Embark on a sun-soaked holiday adventure and find the perfect mix of sport and relaxation in Croatia’s paradise on Earth. Sail the calm Adriatic waters, ride through stone-house towns as old as seafaring, and savor the pleasures of life—every knot, pedal, swim, and step of the way.

• MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATE
• TURQUOISE WATERS
• ADVENTURE & LUXURY
• ANCIENT ROMAN TOWNS
• DALMATIAN DELICACIES

Set sail for cycling splendor

Witness the timeless beauty of croatia.

Centuries-old olive trees, vineyards, and drystone walls add a touch of tradition and history to the land, while the buzzing town squares let you experience the authentic Dalmatian culture.

Ride through the medieval core of Trogir, then explore the hilltop overlooks and pebbly beaches of Brač, Hvar, and Vis before concluding your journey in Omiš, an ancient pirate stronghold tucked between three mountains.

Sail the Adriatic with style

As you glide from the Dalmatian mainland to the islands and back, you’ll enjoy the comfort of your spacious sailboat designed with luxurious traveling in mind.

Depending on availability, you’ll either board the catamaran Lagoon 46 or a Fountaine Pajot Saba. These roomy modern yachts with en-suite bathrooms, wardrobes, and electricity are capable of accommodating your every need.

Each air-conditioned cabin is equipped with an en-suite bathroom, wardrobe, and electricity. Relax, play games, plan your next day in the wide kitchen and lounge area, or catch some rays on the deck before cooling off with a refreshing swim in the clear Adriatic waters.

• MODERN SAILING VESSEL
• ROOMY & WELL-EQUIPPED
• SEASONED LOCAL CREW
• TOTAL FREEDOM

Dip your toes in the sea of adventure

A thousand islands and millennia of history

This tiny central Dalmatian town will dazzle you with its old-time charm. Thanks to its rich colonial past, the historic center of Trogir is part of the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.

In your spare time, pay a visit to the beautiful Romanesque churches, including the St. Lawrence Cathedral, take a walk along the bustling riviera, or enjoy the view from the fortified walls of the Kamerlengo Fortress.

Over 24 miles long and just 7.5 miles wide, Brač is famous for the quaint town of Bol and its unique tongue-shaped Zlatni Rat Beach.

Vidova Gora, the highest peak on the island, offers an unforgettable view of the golden shore and towns below. The island is also home to the medieval Blaca Hermitage. Located on the south side of the island, this impressive monument was founded by two Glagolitic monks in the 16th century.

Thanks to its strategic position and impressive biodiversity, Hvar—the sunniest island in the Adriatic—has enjoyed great importance since the time of Ancient Greece.  Its secluded coves, lavender fields, and stone architecture are a sight to behold.

At the foot of the highest peak on the island, you’ll find Sveta Nedjelja—a town celebrated for its long wine tradition. Afterwards, ride through Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in Europe, then hit the town of Hvar for beach cocktails and a taste of Mediterranean nightlife. 

Due to 20th century naval operations, Vis was closed to the public for 50 years. Today the island invites visitors to marvel at its untouched beauty and the fascinating remnants of its military past—underground tunnels, bunkers, barracks, and submarine hideouts. If you’re up for a real adventure, this is the place to explore.

Pedal your way around the eponymous town of Vis, founded long ago by Greek travelers, and learn about the open sea expeditions of the fishermen inhabiting the town of Komiža. From there, you’ll get a clear view of a tiny local archipelago, which is home to the famous volcanic islet of Jabuka.

OMIŠ

Surrounded by mountains in the heart of Dalmatia, where the Cetina River meets the Adriatic Sea, Omiš is Coastal Croatia’s paradise for outdoor sports. Hiking, biking, kayaking, rock climbing, and paragliding are just some of the activities you can look forward to here.

Historically, Omiš was an infamous pirate stronghold from which Dalmatian corsairs terrorized Venetian merchants and crusaders. So fearsome were these raiders that the Pope led two wars against them. Their fortresses are still standing to this day.

MTB guide, bike mechanic, and tour logistician Ivo Jarić has guided biking enthusiasts of all skill levels since 2016. Although he was born in the continental city of Zagreb, Ivo shares a special bond with the Adriatic coast. He enjoys sharing his love for these slivers, slips, cliffside monoliths, and white-pebble blips with anyone who’s interested. When he’s not shredding singletrack, he spends most of his time traveling with his mountain-biking wife and trying out artisanal beers in local taverns.

More trips like this

Bike and sail with style in croatia, hike and sail croatia’s coastal charms in style, adventure racing for everyone: explore croatia the active way.

Make your way to the region of Dalmatia, marking the start of the tour proper. Have lunch before embarking on your trip to the island of Brač. After a safety briefing, board your yacht and head for Milna, a traditional Dalmatian village on Brač. Spend the afternoon sightseeing and enjoy a traditional dinner by the seaside.

The island of Brač is home to Blaca Bay, a beautiful south-facing cove with pebbly beaches and clear waters. Here you’ll find a 500-year-old monastery called the Blaca Hermitage, a protected landmark crafted out of stone by Glagolitic monks fleeing the Turkish invasion. 

After riding and sightseeing, it’s time for a swim! Then depart to the island of Hvar, where you’ll spend the night in Stari Grad, an ancient Greek settlement and the oldest town in Croatia.

Today, you’ll ride the trail from Stari Grad to the town of Hvar, home to UNESCO-protected ancient Greek plains. The town of Hvar is one of Croatia’s best-known party hot spots. Spend the night there, or head directly for the island of Vis.

After a filling breakfast, choose how to spend your day. You can cycle around Vis, or kick back on the famous Stiniva Beach, situated in a beautiful cove enclosed by massive cliffs. Afterwards, you can visit one of the many post-WWII bunkers on the island before heading out for a wine tasting session in the evening.

Time to head back to Brač. Brač is home to Via Brachia, a bicycle route that connects the most beautiful sights and landmarks on the island. Well-marked and equipped with plenty of rest stops, this route running 400 meters above the sea will give you plenty of epic photo opportunities. Afterwards, try out some traditional dishes, home-made olive oil and wine before heading back to your boat.

Head to Omiš, an ancient pirate stronghold and Dalmatia’s outdoor mecca! Located under massive cliffs where the Cetina River flows into the Adriatic, this charming small town is one of the highlights of the tour. Besides cycling along the coastline and the shores of Cetina, Omiš is full of alternative activities, such as canyoneering, rafting, hiking, or rock climbing.

From Omiš, ride to Split or the medieval town of Trogir, depending on how fit you feel. If you’re up for it, you can take an optional bike ride to Čiovo, an island near Trogir, or explore Marjan hill, a 400-ft (123 m) forest park with breathtaking panoramic views of Split and its surroundings.

Disembark from your sailboat and head back to the airport. If you want to see one of the most beloved symbols of Croatia, stop by the Plitvice Lakes, whose stunning waterfalls are bound to win you over.

Please note that this itinerary is subject to change based on weather and other conditions. However, your guide will make sure to give you the best experience possible no matter what!

Secure your spot for 2025 with only a 10% deposit or reserve the already set dates with a 30% deposit.

None of the dates suit you? Explore Croatia on a private tour! Pack everyday with adventure on a luxury sailboat charter with a private skipper and guides!

Read about our cancellation policy on our FAQ page.

Book early-bird for the coming year, and secure your spots on time.

Hop on a 15min call with our adventure expert and let us know about your expectations. Whether you want to join a group or go on a fully private experience, we are here to make it happen.

What you get on this adventure:

• Two experienced local guides with extensive knowledge of the area 
• An experienced skipper 
• 8 days of cycling
• Accommodation on a spacious 4-cabin sailboat
• Traditional Croatian breakfast on board
• Fruit, snacks, and water for daily outings
• 4 hot meals (lunch or dinner)
• One wine tasting
• Sheets and towels
• Harbor fees

What’s not included:

• Bicycle and helmet rentals (available for an additional fee)
• Transportation from Zagreb or Split to Trogir and back (available for an additional fee)
• Transfer from airport to marina
• Drinks on board

Even though it’s beginner-friendly, this cycling tour still requires you to have a decent level of fitness. You will need to be able to bike consistently for a week in the Dalmatian sun. Most of the days you will cross 10-30 miles with ascents up to 1500 ft. After booking, your guide will determine the group’s skill level and capabilities and cater the days to your abilities.

Private tours will be customized to accommodate your preferences and fitness levels.

Dalmatia’s mild Mediterranean climate boasts perfect weather year-round. Tours are scheduled to fit with the seasons and ideal cycling conditions. When the weather does not cooperate, your guide will know the correct course of action to take. Whether that’s shifting to a more favorable location or postponing until conditions approve, your guide will know just what to do. In the event of predictably bad weather, you will be contacted prior to the trip to discuss suitable alternatives.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Comfortable riding or athletic clothing, preferably moisture-wicking or synthetic material, for a week of mountain biking
• Spare clothes
• Beachwear and a bathing suit
• Sneakers or sport shoes
• Light rain jacket
• Plenty of water, water bottle or hydration bladder
• Daypack with snacks
• Biking gloves are optional but recommended
• Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)

Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Don’t worry about transporting your bikes to Croatia! 

You can rent a Giant Trance 1.5 27,5” bike for an added fee of around $360 per week. Other options include renting a City eBike for $360 or MTB Hardtail eBike for $420. With an eBike, you will be able to climb almost any hill with ease.

If you’re interested, please contact us .

Group sizes and prices:

• Group tours have fixed dates and you will be joining a group of other like-minded people.
• Private tours can be arranged on dates that suit you best. When you charter a boat, your guide can make adjustments to the itinerary according to your preferences. Contact us with the number of participants and dates you would like to secure and we will get back to you as soon as possible!
• It takes a minimum of 4 participants for this tour to run.
• The maximum number of participants is 6 people.
• Cost is per person and it doesn’t decrease as the group grows.

Min. age requirements:

• If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
• Children as young as 10 may be able to participate on a case-by-case basis. If you have a young rider strong enough to handle sustained climbs (either riding or walking their bike) of hundreds of feet, and rough terrain, then they may be able to participate with a legal guardian.

If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Catamaran Lagoon 46 or a Fountaine Pajot Saba 50 have 4 cabins with double beds. Each cabin can take up to 2 people.

If you are traveling solo, you can rent a single cabin by paying an additional fee of 25% of cabin’s price.

Chartering a boat means you have the freedom to make your own schedule and go wherever the wind and desire take you. Charter offers additional flexibility and custom itinerary adapted to your group. Depending on availability, you’ll either board the catamaran Lagoon 46 or a  Fountaine Pajot Saba 50 . These roomy modern yachts with en-suite bathrooms, wardrobes, and electricity are capable of accommodating your every need.

Your guides and skipper will help you create an itinerary that suits your travel needs and wishes. They will handle the boat for you and recommend routes and places to visit. They know where you can anchor and get supplies, find privacy or enjoy the Croatian party scene.

Let us know which dates work best for you and we will give you an estimate of the prices and options for that period. Prior to payment, we will send you a charter agreement and corresponding invoice. The price includes a skipper, two guides, fuel, harbor fees, cleaning, sheets and towels, breakfasts, 4 warm meals, and fruit, water and snacks for daily outings. There will be a fridge onboard filled with food you’ll eat for breakfast.

The final price of the tour depends on the chosen dates, possible upgrades and add-ons. Invite your family and friends who also love boating and reduce the cost per person!

You can secure one of the 2024 dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Secure your early bird spot for 2025 with a 10% deposit!  This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you will be the first one to know about any new upcoming dates. Pick your preferred dates without the risk of your bucket list adventure selling out!

• Only 10% of the total amount should be paid as a deposit upon booking. This deposit is non-refundable, but can be transferred to another 57hours adventure any time in case the dates don’t suit you.
• Once the dates are set, you can confirm your booking by paying another 20% of the total amount.
• The final balance is due 3 months (90 days) prior to departure.

Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

• In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
• For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
• For cancellations 0-89 days before the trip, there is no refund.
• For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
• For cancellations 60-89 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
• For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.

Super Flexible

• For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
• For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.

To get to the start of this tour, most people fly into Split Airport and take a taxi or bus to Trogir about half an hour away.

Other options include Franjo Tudman Airport in Zagreb , about 6-7 hours from Trogir, and Dubrovnik Airport , about 3 hours away.

If you choose to arrive in Zagreb, you can spend your first day exploring Medvednica by bike. On your last day, you can go back to Zagreb and visit Plitvice Lakes National Park along the way or fly back from Dubrovnik.

With us, it’s all play and no work for you! 57hours is an open platform that connects you with trained and certified outdoor adventure professionals all over the world. Using our tech-savvy, we make it super easy to find and book adventures worth tackling, with guides worth booking, all gathered from the first-hand experiences of the locals who adventure in these amazing locations.

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity. 

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, their guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Croatia, please refer to Croatia’s official COVID-19 travel guidelines .

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

You will receive mail confirmation.

Our guides will contact you as soon as new dates get added or a spot gets freed up.

In the meantime

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@ Top Croatia Sailing 2024

T o p   C r o a t i a   S a i l i n g :   C a t a m a r a n   C h a r t e r

"In our world, sailing is more than a job; it's a way of life. We focus on privacy, making boat holidays effortless. Relax and enjoy as we tailor your dream experience at sea."

F a m i l y   o w n e d   b u s i n e s s

D r e a m   S a i l i n g   V a c a t i o n   i n   C r o a t i a

Once you are here, adventure of a lifetime has begun. Picture yourself diving into the crystal-clear sea, sunbathing on the deck, and sharing stories with friends as you navigate breathtaking landscapes.

Debra Kocher

We could not have asked for a better captain for our group, and a better human being! Romano is not only a very competent and talented sailor, but he also knows so many great locations for swimming or hiking or just enjoying the beauty of the Croatian coastline. He was very good at listening to what our interests were, and then adding his own suggestions for things that would be fun to see or do. This included visits to Hvar, cliff jumping, a gorgeous waterside bar/restaurant, great places for dinner and many beautiful coves for swimming. By the end of the week, Romano was really just part of our family, easy going, available, fun, and funny. We look forward to seeing him again soon either on our home turf, or his home waters.

Blake Johnson

We LOVED our experience with Romano. As a local, he is so knowledgeable about the islands, sailing, boats, hikes, runs, restaurants, swimming spots and more. Within just a few hours, he felt like family. He listened to our requests and made our dream trip come true! I highly highly recommend booking with him. He's easy-going, funny & fun, speaks great English, friendly, and he wants to help the people on his boats learn about the history and culture of Croatia. I cannot imagine what our trip would have been like if we had booked a different captain/skipper.

Florian Schiffer

If you're looking for a sailing trip which fulfills all your wishes - this is the right address! Marko and i went for sailing with different crew members twice. I can tell you both trips were amazing where we visited beautiful hidden spots. And it makes such a huge difference in Croatia to have a skipper who knows the inhabitants, the owners of the good restaurants and respects the culture. Marko is one of the highest professional skippers I've ever met, who is also totally flexible and all the time a right hand to you. He is not just a skipper - now i call him a friend!

Eku Sunshine

We just had an amazing sailing week and created lovely memories for a lifetime. Our perfect skipper Romano was everything you could ask for- attentive, very skilled, calm, funny and super planner. Cruising and sailing at 3 islands, tasting wine at local farm, having super dinners every evening and moonlight dances. What more could you ask for🙂 Romano organized all dinners, island tours. Just name it and he delivers it. Our 1st sailing experience was unforgettable and we will definitely return. If you book a sailing tour, please book Romano as your skipper.

Journey Martinson

Romano was the absolute BEST skipper. He's welcoming, knowledgable, friendly, and very good at his job. Our crew felt so safe with him in charge during the duration of our charter, and since he grew up in Croatia, he has tons of knowledge and history to share about all the locations we sailed to. Additionally, he gave great recommendations on things to do and places to visit during our trip. We got to explore some really awesome spots that we wouldn't have known about if it weren't for him. I'm definitely going back to Croatia and I am definitely requesting Romano again.

Marko is the best!!!! Our two trips with Marko were absolutely fantastic. Not only is Marko a really nice person , he is also a great skipper and knows the water like no other. He always found nice little secluded bays for us when we wanted to be alone, but also found nice little villages when we wanted to have diner somewhere. Marko likes sailing. He will give you the wheel and train you , but always with safety in mind. My family and I like Marko, and he I will always be my skipper in Croatia.

Joško Lukin

I am bit late with this but will feel guilty if did not write about our sailing experience with Romano! To make it clear, it is rather hard to impress guest that lives on Dalmatian island but Romano exceeded all expectations! Including dolphins coming to our boat.... Hope to meet again and soon with strong recommendations to all that want to have unforgettable saiiling experiences. Just relax and let Romano take care of all!

Domenic Mantella

Our group had an absolutely wonderful experience with our one week catamaran cruise. Our crew was unbelievably accomodating and helpful. Romano & Anna Maria made sure that we were enjoying ourselves & also provided helpful insight & suggestions regarding our locale. We had such a wonderful experience and would absolutely work with Top Croatia Sailing, as well with Romano & Anna Maria. We are definitely recommending this cruise to our friends & will request the same team again.

Darío Stern

Awesome experience! Romano, our captain, was a very proficient skipper. He also had the ability to understand what we wanted and create an itinerary to achieve our expectations. Hidden spots, cozy towns and magical places were part of the trip. His timing to show up and dissapear was also an advantage. Last but not least Romano was fun and friendly to all of us. If you plan to navigate the Adriatic you should contact this agency. We will never forget our vacation in Croatia. Once again thank you Captain!

Francisco Trindade

Romano and Marko were the skippers from two of our boats in our recent Split trip and the experience could not have been better! Romano catered for our asks and creates an itinerary that was amazing, showing us places off the beaten track that made our trip unique. It was the best trip i had yet and i know that others in my group have the same view.

Romano - the jewel of the Adriatic Sea! He filled our trip with unforgettable moments! Very cultured, attentive, unique, sincere, unobtrusive, relaxed, and ready to help, confident in his work, always smiling! We are very happy that we met a person who truly touched our hearts with his kindness and that he carefully planned beautiful activities and created memorable moments for us! Thanks a lot Romano

Harol Lainez

Romano was a great skipper, super fun and friendly to all his guest. Very knowledgeable and professional. We always had somewhere to go, he provided us with good recommendations around the Dalmatian coast and we’re pleased with all the cool spots he suggested. I would highly recommend him and his team if you are looking for an amazing sailing experience.

Morgan Ranieri

Thanks Marko, Romano and the rest of the crew for a super fun week at sea!

Dominique Pasols

Romano is thee best Skipper! He was super knowledgeable about Croatia so he made our trip extremely memorable! He has a fun personality so it's like he's one of your friends who happens to know EVERYTHING about yachts while at the same time taking his job seriously so you feel completely safe! Would definitely recommend sailing with him!

Yvette Ross

Romano, our skipper, was worth his weight in GOLD. We had an amazing time thanks to him. From taking us to the most beautiful swim spots around the different islands to recommending the best places to eat for the freshest seafood, he played such a huge role in making our adventure so memorable. He is trustworthy, has perfect intuition (he figured out what we liked almost instantly !) and my 2 kids adored him. Hands down the best skipper! Get ready for us next summer, Romano. We will be back!

Miriam Spritzer

Couldn't have asked for a better experience. Romano, Marko and the team were really outstanding. They went out of their way to make sure all of us were enjoying the trip. The itinerary they put together was truly amazing, from the every day life on the boat, to the on land activities. Every suggestion was just perfect. Highly recommend!

Marco is an excellent skipper, very professional, highly skilled and will always go an extra mile to make sure his clients are completely satisfied with all aspects of their sailing experience. We have already been on two memorable sailing adventures with Marco and can't wait for our next one coming up later on this season.

Brooke Smith

Best sailing experience. Romano and his crew were a delight, and his recommendations made our voyage truly special.

@topcroatiasailing

"Smell the sea and feel the sky. Let your soul and spirit fly."

"We are like seashells upon the beach beautiful and unique each with a story of its own to tell."

"What is the good of your stars and trees, your sunrise and the wind, if they do not enter into our daily lives?"

"The purpose of our lives is to be happy."

"The best things in life are the people we love, the places we’ve been, and all the memories we’ve made along the way."

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"We all need a little extra food with friends. So, join us and make this week better with a fellow foodie!"

"Catamaran fun in sunny Croatia! 😊🌊⛵ Big blue sea, cool breeze, happy days! 🌞🌴"

"Sailing into vacation is like catching the wind in your sails – a journey of peace, adventure, and freedom."

"Exploring and admiring Croatia’s beauty"

"Give every day the chance to become the most beautiful day of your life."

"I want to get up in the morning and just roll over in my bed into an outdoor swimming pool. And then swim to the breakfast table."

"If you are in a beautiful place where you can enjoy the sunrise and sunset, then you are living like a lord."

"In most of the world, breakfast is an important meal."

"You either love Croatia, or you're wrong."

"No borders, just horizons – only freedom."

Sailing trips made

Boats in our fleet

Years of Sailing

O u r   F o u n d e r

R o m a n o

Originally from Croatia and with roots on the Island of Brač, Romano brings a strong foundation in electrical engineering to his maritime career. His roles as a private charter skipper and flotilla lead skipper have refined his skills in route planning, navigation, and team communication. With a solid track record of over 100 successful charters in Croatia, Romano is a trusted expert. His leadership is evident in his strong teamwork, attention to detail, and ability to handle challenges. Romano's open-hearted and friendly nature makes every charter enjoyable and memorable.Off the sea, he enjoys hiking, salsa dancing, cycling, and adrenaline sports. His dedication to providing top-quality experiences is at the heart of TopCroatiaSailing's success.

O u r   S k i p p e r   T e a m

S a i l i n g   T o u r   T a i l o r e d   f o r   Y o u

"Where the wind whispers ancient tales and crystal waters invite exploration, let the sea guide your adventure."

O u r   b o a t   f l e e t   i s   r e a d y   f o r   s a i l i n g

With a wide range of catamaran and yacht options, our fleet is designed to provide the ultimate sailing experience for every enthusiast.

G a l l e r y

L o c a l   F o o d

I n   t h e   H e a r t   o f   M e d i t e r r a n e a n   C u i s i n e

Thanks to our love for food and appreciation of local flavors, we can recommend the finest spots to enjoy the true essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

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Frugal Traveler

Affordable Island-Hopping in Croatia? What Could Go Wrong?

A 30-percent-off Black Friday sale on a cruise aboard a yacht meant off-season sailing and being prepared for the unexpected.

By Elaine Glusac

Elaine Glusac is the Frugal Traveler columnist, focusing on budget-friendly tips and journeys.

As Croatians tell the story , the Greek hero Odysseus was shipwrecked and held captive on the Croatian island of Mljet. Visiting in May, I and six other sailors embraced the myth when the motor on our 54-foot yacht failed.

“Remember, Odysseus spent seven years on Mljet,” said Ivan Ljubovic, our captain. “We can do two nights.”

In the scheme of things, the clogged fuel filter that impeded our progress on a seven-night, island-hopping cruise from Split to Dubrovnik on a yacht — which the passengers helped sail — was minor. Though an engine, even on a sailboat, is vital for docking and sticking to schedules on becalmed days, most of my shipmates agreed that getting waylaid in a village with Roman ruins on a turquoise bay was an acceptable fate.

I had been resigned to what were, in my mind, worse inconveniences when I had signed up for the trip last November. Then, the tour operator G Adventures had put several trips on sale over the Black Friday weekend. Its best deals were in the off-season, which meant potentially chilly weather and closed restaurants and attractions. But leaving in late April for seven nights of island hopping at roughly $1,300 — after a 30 percent discount — was too tempting to pass up.

My cousin Kim agreed and we made plans to pack rain gear and meet in Split to test the budget waters.

‘Everything between is an adventure’

Little about the itinerary was published pre-departure and none of it was firm.

“Split and Dubrovnik are fixed,” said the captain, who would pilot the ship solo and double as our guide, on our first day. “Everything between is an adventure.”

It started with the Sauturnes, a handsome Kufner yacht with four snug guest cabins, four economical bathrooms where the retractable faucet doubled as a shower spigot, and a spacious galley. Our “crew,” a mix of Australians and Americans ranging from 18 to 75 — all of whom had also jumped on the promotional pricing — spent most of the time atop the boat, where foam mattresses invited sunbathing and a cockpit awning provided shade.

The weather, which turned out to be sunny and comfortably cool, was not our greatest concern. The G Adventures website had mentioned well-known islands, including beachy Brac and Vis , which played a convincing Greek idyll in the movie “Mamma Mia 2.” But since many places would be closed in the shoulder season, we would proceed, according to the captain, based on the dictates of the weather and conditions on shore.

Meals were not included, which meant finding open restaurants was critical. For shipboard breakfasts and lunches, we each chipped in 50 euros (about $54) for communal groceries, which we shopped for at local markets. At night, we would dine at restaurants; G Adventures advised budgeting $250 to $325 for the week, which was accurate, though we often splurged on Croatian wine (a carafe of house red averaged $15).

Small ports

After the frenzy of grocery shopping and moving into the bunk-bedded cabin Kim and I shared, we experienced the Zen of sailing as the ship set off on a sunny morning for 43-mile-long Hvar , the longest and purportedly sunniest island in Croatia.

Neighboring islands drifted past as the wind patterned the sea in shifting ripples and ruffles. A flock of shearwaters soared by at eye level.

Within a few hours, the ridgelines of steep Hvar appeared, revealing terraced lavender fields and olive orchards. Motoring down a long, narrow inlet, we arrived in Stari Grad , a village of stone homes with terra cotta roof tiles, as travelers had since 384 B.C., when Greek sailors from the island of Paros settled here.

Our mooring provided a front-row view of fishing boats and cafes animating the waterfront. Stari Grad’s attractions, including the Greek ruins of Faros and a 17th-century Venetian cathedral, had yet to open for the season, but we relished exploring the old quarter’s narrow lanes and deserted plazas.

From the waterfront, an aerobic 20-minute hike up a steep hill crowned by a giant white cross offered views over Stari Grad and the plains beyond, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of fourth-century agricultural fields, with stone walls circumscribing grapevines and olive orchards.

That evening, we visited them to reach Konoba Kokot , a farm restaurant that specializes in “peka,” a kind of barbecue in which meat cooks under an iron lid piled with hot coals. The family that runs it opened in the preseason, welcoming us with bracing shots of rakija, a local herbal liquor. At a long table under an arbor, we gorged on homemade goat cheese, wild boar pate and, from the hearth, roast lamb, veal and octopus with limitless jugs of red and white wine for 35 euros a person.

Starry nights

Small ships are unmatched at getting into small ports, but a yacht trip is also a little like camping, starting most mornings with D.I.Y. instant coffee. Marinas offered free bathhouses with showers.

Cool temperatures apparently deterred the celebrity-filled mega yachts, which are known to anchor in the town of Hvar on the south shore of Hvar island. Our captain declared it the “Mykonos of Croatia” as we motored by the port bustling with visitors carrying shopping bags and cones of gelato.

With clear weather in the forecast, we moored in an undeveloped cove east of town. The mooring belonged to the owners of Moli Onte restaurant, who ferried us to land on a motorized dingy, allowing us enough time before dinner to visit the fortress above Hvar and have an Ozujsko beer on St. Stephens Square, the largest in the region of Dalmatia.

Back on board, with no artificial light to wash out the night sky, we hit the upper deck for stargazing. As my shipmates peeled off to bed, I grabbed a blanket and beanie and bedded down under the stars for the evolving show, periodically waking to catch the drama of the moon rising, reflected in the still water.

Little Dubrovnik

Fingers of gray rock reached down to meet sloping vineyards along Hvar’s south coast as we departed for its neighbor, Korcula. On our longest day of sailing, five hours, I welcomed the chance to play first mate, manning the lines on the jib sail.

To break up the trip, Captain Ljubovic navigated to a quiet cove off the Peljesac Peninsula where the Caribbean-blue waters, cloudless sky and sandy bottom convinced us to jump in despite numbing sea temperatures.

Fifteenth-century walls ring the historic center of Korcula, earning it the nickname “Little Dubrovnik.” Past the stone gates carved with a winged lion representing the empire of Venice, which controlled much of the Adriatic after the 13th century, narrow alleys led to ornate churches and mansions. There was no better history trip than getting lost in the web of pedestrian lanes. Or so we told ourselves as we passed the purported home of Marco Polo, still closed preseason.

Along the seafront walls, restaurants served pizza and seafood under lights strung in the pines and we caught sunset from a former turret, now converted into Massimo Cocktail Bar , which requires patrons to climb a ladder to the rooftop, a caution against second rounds.

The most romantic port of the trip was also the rowdiest, at least in the marina, which was hosting a Polish sailing regatta. When I headed for the showers at 6 a.m. the next morning, I found a group still cheerfully dancing atop a yacht littered in empty booze bottles and crushed potato chips.

Marooned on Mljet

We left Korcula on strong 20-knot “jugo” or south winds and Captain Ljubovic unleashed the sails, saying “You paid for a sailing vacation, not a motorboat.”

As we tacked back and forth toward Mljet , the boat heeled at a queasy angle and we took face shots of ocean spray.

On Mljet, where the western end of the island is home to Mljet National Park , we rented bikes (10 euros) to ride a lung-busting route over the park’s mountain spine. On the other side, we cycled around a pair of inland lakes and took a boat trip to a 12th-century monastery built on an island in one of them (park admission, 15 euros).

Docked in the still sleepy town of Polace, we heard tales of high season, when up to 100 yachts anchor in the bay and members of the band U2 were once seen biking in the park. After a brief shower, the town glimmered at sunset and the restaurant Stella Maris welcomed us with grilled sea bass (25 euros) and prawns (20 euros).

“I’m so glad I chose this time, because I don’t do crowds,” said my shipmate Nova Hey, 46, of Sydney, who was traveling with her 18-year-old daughter.

In the morning, I had the trail to the peak of Montokuc to myself. The roughly three-mile round-trip hike reached one of the highest points on the island, a rocky knob with stunning panoramas shared by a family of feral goats.

Not long thereafter, the Sauternes’ engine refused to turn over, stranding us in a national park on a remote island with no mechanics.

Teeming Dubrovnik

The next morning, Captain Ljubovic jimmied a fix but it didn’t last long and the engine died again, this time just opposite a cave on Mljet that we joked had to be the refuge of Odysseus.

After a morning of light sailing, a mechanic from the mainland arrived by speedboat and within an hour we were motoring toward the Franjo Tudman Bridge that spans the inlet to the Dubrovnik marina where hot showers awaited.

“Dubrovnik is the most expensive city in Croatia,” said Captain Ljubovic as we spent the last of our pooled money, 70 euros, hiring a taxi van to get us to and from the walled heart of the ancient city about 15 minutes away.

With two large cruise ships in port, Dubrovnik was teeming with visitors and the price to climb the stone walls that encircle the city was a sticker-shocking 35 euros. (In the ensuing two days Kim and I would spend post-cruise in the city, we bought the more comprehensive Dubrovnik Pass for 35 euros that included admission to the walls as well as several museums and public bus transportation.)

On our final evening, we measured the lack of crowds versus closed museums; perfect hiking weather versus swim-inviting water; ample dock space versus more restaurant choices — and felt we’d come out ahead sailing in the bargain season.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Ljubljana, Slovenia:  Stroll along the river, explore a contemporary art scene and admire panoramic views in this scenic Central European capital .

Cities With Great Beaches:  Already been to Miami, Honolulu and Sydney? These five other coastal destinations  are vibrant on land and on the water.

Southern France:  The Canal du Midi traverses the Occitanie region and gives cyclists of all skill levels  access to parts of France that are rich in lore .

Port Antonio, Jamaica:  The D.J. and music producer Diplo recommends spots in a city he loves  on Jamaica’s northeast coast. A dance party makes the cut.

New Mexico:  Visiting the vast and remote Gila Wilderness, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary, is both inspiring and demanding .

Luxury sailing guide to Croatia: Travel like Brad Pitt

S ailing has a rich and storied history in Croatia , dating back to ancient times when Illyrian tribes navigated the Adriatic Sea. The region’s strategic location made it a crossroads for trade routes and maritime exploration. Over the centuries, Croatia’s coastline was influenced by various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and Byzantines, each leaving their mark on the culture and maritime traditions.

Several popular sailing routes attract travelers from all over the world. Each route offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance, making them favorites among adventurers. This stunning destination is loved by many A-listers, including Brad Pitt .

Architect Nikola Bašić recalls Pitt telling him that he was fascinated with the intensity of the colors in Croatia, and that it is “the most beautiful country he has ever visited.”

Here are some of the most popular routes in Croatia and why they are so well-known and sought after by many celebrities.

Dubrovnik to Split

This route is often considered the crown jewel of Croatian sailing. It takes sailors along the stunning Dalmatian coast, passing by picturesque islands, charming coastal towns, and historic landmarks. Highlights along the way include the ancient city walls of Dubrovnik, the enchanting island of Korčula (the legendary birthplace of Marco Polo), and the vibrant city of Split with its iconic Diocletian’s Palace.

When in Dubrovnik: Explore the ancient city walls and historic Old Town, visit the stunning Lokrum Island, and enjoy panoramic views from Mount Srd. Don’t miss the opportunity to dine at cliffside restaurants overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

When in Split: Make sure to explore the ancient Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and get lost in its labyrinthine streets filled with history and charm. Don’t miss a chance to take a stroll along the picturesque Riva promenade, enjoying stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and cafes full of locals.

“When sailing in Croatia routes are kept within sight, ensuring you’re never too far from your next destination.” - Mila Cueva , from MedSailing Adventures .

Split to Hvar

Known for its lively atmosphere and glamorous nightlife, Hvar is a must-visit destination for travelers. This route allows you to explore the bustling city of Split before heading to the idyllic island of Hvar, where you can relax on beautiful beaches, wander through lavender fields, and enjoy the vibrant café culture of Hvar Town.

When in Hvar: Indulge in the nightlife of Hvar Town, relax on beautiful beaches like Dubovica and Stari Grad, and hike to the picturesque hilltop fortress. Discover hidden coves and charming villages as you sail around the island.

Zadar to Kornati

Zadar to Kornati: For those seeking unspoiled natural beauty, the route from Zadar to the Kornati Islands is a dream come true. Sailing through the stunning Kornati National Park, sailors are treated to open landscapes of rocky cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. The Kornati Islands are a paradise for nature lovers, offering endless opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring secluded bays.

When in Zadar : Take a sunset walk along the unique Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun installations, experiencing the blend of nature and art. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the city’s history by exploring landmarks like the Roman Forum and the medieval St. Donatus Church.

When in Kornati : Explore the island’s nature by hiking along its rugged terrain, with paths offering panoramic views of the archipelago.

Choosing a vessel: Catamarans

Choosing the right vessel can be tricky when it’s your first time. Keep in mind that catamarans are more stable, making them a better choice if you are not very experienced or suffer from seasickness. If you have more experience, you might prefer a sailboat. The waters are generally calm along the coast of this destination.

The classic way to sail in Croatia

A ‘gulet’ is a traditional wooden sailing vessel originating from the Mediterranean region, particularly popular in countries like Turkey, Croatia, Greece, and Italy. Gulets are often used for leisure cruising along the coastline. They date back centuries and were commonly used for fishing, transportation, and trade along the Mediterranean coast. Today, gulets are synonymous with luxury cruising and yacht charter vacations in the Mediterranean.

In modern times, Croatia’s sailing heritage continues to thrive, attracting travelers from around the world to its pristine waters and scenic islands, contributing to the country’s economy and cultural identity.

Flotilla Style

A “flotilla” is a group of boats sailing together under the guidance of a lead boat or experienced crew. Flotilla sailing is a popular option for those who prefer a sociable and supportive atmosphere while exploring new destinations. It’s a fantastic way to meet like-minded individuals, learn from experienced sailors, and discover new places in the company of a supportive community.

Oh and the food…

Croatian cuisine is a fusion of Mediterranean, Central European, and Balkan influences, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a rich tapestry of flavors. Along the coast, seafood takes center stage, with dishes like grilled fish, octopus salad, and black risotto made with squid ink.

Oysters from Ston, mussels from Istria, and salted anchovies from the island of Vis are renowned for their exceptional quality and flavor. Olive oil, herbs, and citrus fruits enhance the coastal cuisine, adding depth and freshness to every dish.

In the inland regions, hearty meat dishes are prevalent, with specialties such as roasted lamb, spit-roasted pork, and Ćevapi (grilled minced meat). Traditional Croatian cuisine also features a variety of stews, soups, and pasta dishes, often prepared with seasonal vegetables, legumes, and aromatic herbs.

Traditional sweets include fritule (fried dough balls), rozata (custard pudding), and krempita (cream cake), as well as seasonal fruit desserts featuring figs, cherries, and citrus fruits.

Expert tips to book your Croatia trip

Some suggestions when booking your sailing trip to Croatia:

• Boat owners rent their vessel from Saturday through Saturday, so keep that in mind when you book your flights
• Instead of paying for private marinas, you can always stop to have lunch or dinner and most restaurants won’t charge you.
• Six is the magic number! If you travel along five other travelers, that is the perfect amount of people to get the best rates. Bigger boats are more expensive.

“The best time to visit Croatia is generally during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, with fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. Spring offers blooming landscapes and mild temperatures, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage and harvest festivals.

Ultimately, the duration and season for your trip to Croatia depend on your personal preferences, interests, and travel priorities. Truthfully, we could extend our stay for 30 days and find a new amazing spot every time we set sail.” - Mila Cueva , from MedSailing Adventures .

Natalia Ordonez Durand is a contributor writer for HOLA! and writes about travel. She is the Female Founder of BP Journey. For those seeking a career in travel and adventure, visit bpjourney.com .