💫 Sailing Croatia: Your Insider’s Guide to Europe’s Best-Kept Secret 🛥️

I’m excited to tell you about one of Europe’s most captivating spots. Croatia has won me over ever since my first trip there in 2023, and it’s easy to see why it’s getting so much buzz. This gorgeous “Pearl of the Adriatic” gives you a fresh option instead of the packed scenes in Italy and France. I’m blown away by its clear blue waters, historic cities, and vineyard covered hills that give Tuscany a run for its money. And if you’re into Game of Thrones – yep, they filmed here too!

THE TIMELINE | WHEN TO PLAN & VISIT

Croatia’s Mediterranean appeal is evident throughout the year, but here’s my insider perspective:

🌞 High Season: From June to September, you’ll find sunny days that beach fans will love.

🌸 Springtime Bliss: April to June provides great conditions to explore waterfalls and go hiking with smaller crowds.

🍷 Fall Festivals: I love Croatia in autumn (September to November), especially if you’re into food and wine! October brings the awesome Truffle Days in Istria – picture yourself on a truffle hunt and enjoying these treats in their home region. And the autumn colors at Plitvice Lakes National Park? They’re stunning for your hikes!

Planning ahead is essential… I recommend booking 6-9 months before your trip to secure the best accommodations if you want to visit Croatia’s most popular islands or enjoy lively summer festivals. If you’re thinking about chartering a private yacht or trying unique activities (like pickleball at sea), you need to start planning even earlier!  Lucky for you, I’ve already chartered a yacht (with a floating pickleball court) for the end of September 2026 that you can be a part of (click HERE for more information, and scroll to the bottom of the page to send me an email if you want to be the first to receive the registration link).

Sample Itinerary 

Croatia is best viewed from the sea, and sailing on a yacht gives you flexibility to explore many secluded coves and small islands that are inaccessible on a larger vessel or from a car.

Stops to consider are:

Start in Split – Anchored by the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace – a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive Roman architectural monuments in the world – Split offers travelers an immersive journey through centuries of history where ancient stone walls, marble streets, and living archaeological sites create an open-air museum experience. 

Bol – Nestled on the island of Brač, Bol is home to the world-famous Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach – a mesmerizing, shape-shifting golden pebble beach that dramatically changes with the winds and currents, creating a photographers’ paradise. This stunning location offers not just breathtaking natural beauty, but also world-class windsurfing conditions and crystal-clear turquoise waters that will make your yacht adventure an unforgettable Mediterranean dream.

Hvar — Often called the “French Riviera of Croatia,” Hvar is a glamorous island that blends historic charm with contemporary luxury. It boasts lavender fields and a stunning medieval town center that has attracted jet-setters and celebrities for years. 

Scedro – This tiny, virtually untouched island is a hidden gem of tranquility, offering a serene escape from the more bustling Croatian destinations with its pristine landscapes and limited human development. Scedro provides an intimate sailing experience where you can anchor in secluded bays, enjoy pristine waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and feel like you’ve discovered your own private Mediterranean paradise.

Korčula — Often referred to as “Little Dubrovnik,” Korčula is a stunning walled medieval town that rises dramatically from the sea. Its compact Old Town resembles a miniature jewel of Venetian architecture and history. Wander through its narrow, marble-paved streets, discover Marco Polo’s alleged birthplace, indulge in exceptional local wines and fresh seafood, and experience a destination that seamlessly blends cultural richness with the luxurious freedom of yacht travel.

End in Dubrovnik – Dramatically perched on the Adriatic coastline, Dubrovnik is a breathtaking walled city that looks like it has been lifted straight from a medieval fairy tale, with its perfectly preserved limestone streets, stunning baroque buildings, and panoramic views that have made it a global icon (and famously, the filming location for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones). These old defenses give you amazing views of the Adriatic Sea and peeks at the Old Town with its red-tiled roofs. Here’s a tip from a local: Go early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the crowds and catch that beautiful golden light.

After sailing through Croatia’s stunning coastline, I can honestly say this trip will be nothing short of magical – the kind of adventure that stays with you long after you’ve unpacked your bags. If you’re looking to escape the typical tourist crowds and discover a place that’s equal parts beautiful, historic, and surprisingly laid-back, Croatia is calling your name.  Join us!