What do I need to sail in Croatia?

No panic, sailing in Croatiaë is relatively easy and almost anyone has the skills to do it. The moderate winds and clear visibility make the country a perfect sailing area for newcomers.

Even if you have just completed your sailing course before the start of the trip, you can navigate independently. If you are still not quite sure of your sailing skills, you can always hire an experienced and professional skipper. They can not only give you some sailing lessons, but also show you the most beautiful bays and towns.

To sail in Croatiaë you must have a navigation and VHF licence. If you don't have these, you can rent a yacht including a skipper, as mentioned above. In most cases, these are locals who have specialised knowledge of the area and can show you the way to the best sights. Hiring a skipper costs around €80 to €150 per day. You should also bear in mind that you have to provide the skipper with his own cabin and meals.

How do I choose the right yacht?

There are two main types of boats to choose from: Monohulls and catamarans. Monohulls, as the name suggests, are boats with only ééone hull, while catamarans, as shown in the image below, have two hulls.
Catamarans are more stable, making them perfect for families with children or sailors prone to seasickness. Monohulls, on the other hand, are easier to manoeuvre than catamarans and are the cheaper option for the same length. If you are still not sure which boat to choose, contact our shipmates!

 

When is the best time to sail in Croatiaë?

The best time to sail in Croatiaë is during the summer months from June to September. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, the sea is calm and the wind is usually moderate: the perfect conditions for sailing.

The high season in Croatiaë is from mid-July to mid-August, when temperatures are highest and the water is warmest. At the same time, however, it is also the roughest time and many popular destinations can be crowded.

If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed sailing experience and don't mind a little cooler weather, consider sailing in May, June, September or October. In these months, the crowds are a bit more spread out, prices are lower and the winds are usually a bit stronger, giving you some exciting options for your sailing trip.

Keep in mind that the weather during this period is very unpredictable and there may be the occasional rain or thunderstorm. It is therefore essential that you regularly check the weather forecast and be prepared for any changes.

The cost of a sailing holiday depends on several factors, including the number of travellers, the size of the yacht and the length of the trip. For example, a group of five can rent a three cabin yacht without skipper for a week in high season for €400 per person, excluding additional costs such as food, fuel or moorings. Prices for mooring a yacht in Croatiaë vary from around 60 to 150 euros per night, although a few restaurants offer free mooring if you go there to eat.

 

 

(Optional) insurance

Although chartering a sailboat or catamaran is basically a safe activity, it is important to consider whether you need insurance in case something goes wrong. Fortunately, all charter yachts are insured against all risks's, but there are some additional insurance options for extra protection. Tubber offers optional insurance, such as against damage to the vessel or against illness or accidents. Damage insurance is called surety insurance and can be taken out when you have chartered a yacht. This insurance is recommended so you can enjoy your sailing holiday worry-free.

Wind in Croatia;

During the spring and summer months the wind usually blows about's 10 to 20 knots. In autumn and winter, this can reach 28 knots. However, there are three dominant winds that you should take into account. These are the Bora, the Sirocco and the Maestral.

The bora

The bora is a strong wind that blows in Croatiaë from the northeast and reaches northwards to the coast. This dry and cold wind brings fine weather from the mainland to the Adriatic. It is one of the strongest winds in Europe, but is also known for its predictability. Therefore, make sure you are in port or a sheltered bay and not on the water when the bora blows, as it can reach wind strength and usually lasts for 2 to 4 days. Note that the bora is less common in summer and most common in winter.

The Sirocco

The sirocco is a warm and humid wind that can blow at any time of the year. It blows from east to south across the Adriatic Sea and causes turbulent weather and heavy rain clouds. When the wind reaches the south, it is at its strongest. The Sirocco winds average 16 to 20 knots.

The Maestral

Last but not least, the Maestral. This wind is caused by air currents rising from the warmer land and being pulled towards the sea. The result is a land-sea circulation. You can recognise the maestral by the thick white clouds. The wind picks up 'in the morning and is at its strongest (16 to 20 knots) around 14:00. In the evening, the wind decreases.

Which route is best for me?

The option of renting a boat with or without a skipper gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of the sailing route. To narrow down your options, here is a list of popular port cities in Croatiaë to start your sailing trip, based on their proximity to airports and other facilities. Also take into account the mode of transport, car or plane, and associated parking rates.

Starting points

When planning your sailing trip in Croatiaë there are several ports from which you can start your trip. For example, our flotillas depart from the Split and Dubrovnik regions, and you can reach these ports by car or plane.

Pula

ACI Marina Pula

Located in the heart of Pula, ACI Marina Pula is a somewhat luxurious marina that offers you a royal experience. The marina is just a five-minute walk from the city centre, where you can enjoy beautiful historical sights, delicious food and a stunning view of the Roman amphitheatre from the harbour.

 

The marina is five kilometres from Pula Airport and parking is available. Facilities include a restaurant, a bar, a spa and free Wi-Fi.

Look at the yachts for rent in Pula

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Marina Veruda

Marina Veruda is a pretty marina in a quiet and peaceful area, not too close to Pula itself. The marina stretches over a nice part of Veruda Bay and offers a pleasant breeze when you get out of the car or taxi. It is only a 10-minute walk to a village with several hotels and good restaurants.

The marina is 12 km from Pula Airport and parking is available. Facilities include a swimming pool, a bar, a restaurant, a petrol station, a diving centre, a children's playground and a shop.

Companies in Pula

• The Amphitheatre of Pula: The amphitheatre is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world and dates back to the first century. It is full of history and you will feel like a gladiator as you walk through its corridors.
• The Forum: Located in the heart of the city (in the city's main square), the Forum usually hosts concerts and events that you can attend. 
• Augustus Temple: This beautiful temple is more than 2,000 years old and offers the opportunity to admire ancient architecture and stone carvings.

Zadar

D-Marin Borik

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D-Marin-Borik is a small and cosy marina outside Zadar, away from the crowds. The marina offers a peaceful atmosphere from the moment you arrive. Surrounded by flats and hotels, it is the perfect place to board your boat in peace.

The marina is 15 kilometres from Zadar airport and parking is available. Facilities include a swimming pool, a beach, a terrace with stunning views, a bar, a shop, a Tesla charging station and a restaurant.

 

D-Marin Dalmacija

This marina is one of the larger ones, close to Zadar airport. Although it is not directly in Zadar, it is close to the charming village of Sukošan. Here you can enjoy the beautiful beach with crystal clear waters right next to the marina.

The marina is just 5 km from Zadar Airport, and parking is available. Facilities include a shop, a beach club with restaurant, a diving centre, a bar lounge and a kids' club.

Companies in Zadar

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• Discover St Donatus&rsquo church, an impressive pre-Romanesque building from 800 AD, which is still a source of pride for Zadar residents.

• You can also visit St Anastasia’s Cathedral: An early Christian basilica from 300 AD, which could soon be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Take a break from sightseeing and visit Paklenica National Park, where you can marvel at caves, peaks and cliffs over 700 metres high.

Trogir

Marina Boatić

Marina Boatić is a beautiful marina near Trogir, with a small and beautiful beach within easy reach. There are several excellent restaurants nearby and the town is not overcrowded with tourists. A walk through the old streets will make you feel like a local.

The marina is seven kilometres from Split Airport and parking is available. Facilities include a restaurant, a bar, a shop, a gym and a swimming pool.

ACI Marina Trogir

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The ACI Marina Trogir is a charming marina on the island of Orkug Gornji, which is easily accessible by car or taxi. The marina is surrounded by many flats and hotels and you can walk to the pretty village in ten minutes.

The marina is six kilometres from Split Airport and parking is available. Facilities include a diving centre, wellness centre, shop, restaurant and free Wi-Fi.

Companies in Trogir

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• Stroll along the promenade, a lovely corner surrounded by palm trees, great views and plenty of places to enjoy a nice cold drink and just relax.
• View the many beautiful beaches, such as Medena beach, Okrug Gornji and Kava.
• See the Cipiko Palace, the former home of the Cipiko family, a noble family from the 15th century, and admire the highly detailed gothic windows.

Split

ACI Split

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Although the port is a little further away from Split airport, the view of Diocletian's palace from the ACI Split makes up for it. The marina even won the 2017 Tourist Flower award for quality in Croatiaë. Nearby are two beautiful parks with excellent sea views.

The marina is 26 kilometres from Split Airport and parking is available. Facilities include a restaurant, a shop, free Wi-Fi and a Tesla charging station.

 

Marina Kastela

This marina is close enough to the city to enjoy it, but far enough away to find peace and quiet. Just a five-minute walk gets you to the beach, while there are plenty of shops to browse around on the other side of the harbour.

The port is 11 kilometres from Split Airport and parking is available. Facilities include a restaurant, a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, a shop and a café/bar.

Companies in Split

• Visit Diocletian's Palace in the centre of Split's old town: it is part of UNESCO's World Heritage Site
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• Watch the old city centre and Narodni Trg square, where you will find many cosy restaurants and cafés
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Dubrovnik

ACI Marina Dubrovnik

This marina is one of the most beautiful in Dubrovnik and is just six kilometres from the old town. It is surrounded by beautiful forests that are perfect for a long walk.

The marina is 22 kilometres from Dubrovnik Airport and parking is available. Facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant, shop, golf course and free Wi-Fi.

Companies in Dubrovnik

• Stroll along the ancient city walls that once protected the city from invaders and the sea.
• Take a Game of Thrones tour and discover all the series' key filming locations in Dubrovnik.
•  Take a sunset kayak tour, paddling under the city walls and enjoying stunning sunset views at the end.

What next? Check out our already completed sailing itinerary:

Splendid sailing itinerary in Dalmatië

 

Sailing in
Kroatië

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