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Top Tips For Chartering A Boat In Croatia


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If you are dreaming about spending your summer relaxing on a boat, cruising over idyllic blue waters, and exploring beautifully ‘architectured‘ cultural seaside towns, then perhaps you should consider chartering a boat or yacht to sail in Croatia for your next holiday.

With different types of charters available to accommodate travellers of all budgets, it is now easier than ever to tailor your own island hopping experience across the glittering Adriatic Sea.

There are few things to consider when planning your yacht charter in Croatia, so here are a few tips to get you sailing off into that sunset in no time.

Which type of charter to select

If you have your own accredited skippers license, like the idea of having your own private boat/yacht to enjoy, and would like to plot your own custom itinerary then opt for a bareboat charter.

A skippered charter affords you all those same luxuries but also includes a hired skipper to navigate and man the boat for you whilst you relax. An experienced skipper can also be a great tour guide and will know the best places to stop over and things to do during your charter.

If you want to put your feet up and truly enjoy your freedom, then a crewed charter could be for you. A skipper, cook, and hostess will navigate, prepare meals, and look after you on the charter.

For a more budget-friendly option that follows a set itinerary, join up with fellow travellers and book a cabin charter or try a flotilla charter for a fun group experience.

Which sailing route to take

Most charters start or end at the ports in the cities of Split and Dubrovnik. Be sure to include some time in your itinerary to explore these two breathtaking cities that are full of history.

Split is fairly central and is a good starting point if you plan to sail up north away from the crowds to visit the old city of Zadar and its’s medieval churches and Roman ruins.

Dubrovnik is in the south and the charters around here generally head up the coastline to Split and include the islands. You might recognise some of Dubrovnik’s cityscapes as Kings Landing from HBO’s tv series, Game of Thrones!

Islands to visit

The route between Split and Dubrovnik with its endless islands is the most popular for sailing. From Split, head a little further out to the remote Vis Island, and sail around to see its’ secluded caves and hidden bays.

Sail to the regions’ busiest island, Hvar Island, for an unforgettable night out where you could stand the chance of rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous.

If taking a break on a beach is more your thing, then Brač Island with its postcard-perfect pristine Golden Horn Beach should be your next stop. Brač also offers snorkelling, hiking, kitesurfing and windsurfing for the active traveller.

For some peace and quiet head to Mljet Island which is known for its’ National Park filled with luscious forests and dazzling saltwater lakes. Relish the tranquillity by hiring a bicycle to explore the villages and enjoy the scenery.

How long are the charters?

Charters are typically one week long though this can vary according to the charter company that you book with.

When to visit

Sailing in Croatia is best in the warm summer months when you can enjoy swimming and being outside. Whilst the peak months of June, July and August can be very busy the shoulder months from May until September are still warm and inviting.

There is no doubt that Croatia and its beautiful islands are a bucket list travel destination and chartering a boat to sail the coast and explore the islands is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the truly amazing scenery that this outstanding place has to offer.

 

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About the author

Megan is our remote Junior Copywriter. She studied English and Anthropology at the University of South Africa, and you can find her putting words into practice on things travel related. You can find some of her most recent work on her website: Writtenin.

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