Sailing itinerary in Croatia. Enjoy the Dalmatian coast

Sailing in Dalmatia, Croatia is fantastically beautiful because of its beautiful coastline, clear sea and several islands. The various bays and anchorages offer unforgettable views of the surroundings, and the local towns and villages offer rich culture and history. The warm and comfortable summer months make sailing here extra enjoyable, and the island landscape offers plenty of adventures and relaxation. In short, sailing in Dalmatia is a unique way to explore Croatia and enjoy nature and culture.

Sailing Route in Croatia

Croatia is known as one of the most popular sailing vacation destinations in Europe. With 1187 islands and a total of 5385 km of coastline, there is still plenty to explore and the possible sailing routes are endless. The climate in Croatia lends itself perfectly to sailing. There are the world of sailing routes in Croatia for beginners as well as more experienced sailors who want to enjoy a sunny sailing vacation in Croatia.

Weather in Croatia

With an average temperature of 26 degrees Celsius from June through September. With mostly NW winds (mistral) averaging 2-4 Bft, comfortable sailing is guaranteed. Caution! Occasionally the infamous Bora and Jugo can come around the corner. The bora blows from the northeast and is relentless. The jugo blows from the south and is a bit more constant, however, because of these two winds it is very important to always be aware of the weather forecasts in Croatia. Need information about weather forecasts in Croatia?

Marina Kastela, Trogir or Split

This sailing route in Croatia is best started by sailing in Croatia is virtually endless to enjoy this sailing itinerary in Croatia.

Day 1: Marina Kastela- Bobovišća

Day one has arrived and it is time to prepare for departure from Kaštel Gomilica harbor, Marina Kastela. Less than 200 meters from this port, you can find a supermarket (Konzum), ideal for buying all the provisions. Prepare the shopping well and bring enough water! Also check out some tips for cooking on board.

When all preparations are made it is time to depart in a southerly direction to Bobovišća, this is 13 n.m. sailing. One should sail around the headland of Park Šuma Marjan and then continue south. Bobovišća is known for its beautiful bay that draws almost a kilometer inland from the island of Brač and at one point splits in two. There are anchorages available, and the restaurants are fine. Bobovišća is very picturesque and quiet.

Day 2: Bobovišća - Bol

On day two, Bol is on the schedule. One has to descend further south and sail between the islands of Šolta and Brač. Pay close attention to other boat traffic, it can be busy here. Then turn to port to sail along the southern coast of Brač to Bol.

Bol is known for its Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) an iconic and beautiful pebble beach, see photo below. Bol is the oldest town on the island and has a beautiful Mediterranean feel. The old center with its cozy little streets lends itself perfectly to a nice stroll. In Bol there is a lot of cultural heritage to discover from Roman times and the Dominican monastery is unique. Cafes, nightclubs and restaurants also abound and activities such as surfing and mountain biking are very popular. A real must go!

Day 3: Bol - Stari Grad

Stari Grad, which literally means Old Town , is located at the end of a long beautiful bay in the north of the island of Hvar. It's a not too long route for one day, direct sailing is 11 n.m. from Bol, so there's plenty of time to make a few extra races.

Stari Grad lives up to its name as it is one of the oldest towns in Europe. Again, the picturesque streets are lovely to stroll through, the old center is on the UNESCO World Heritage List(!), and the landscape around Stari Grad is fantastically beautiful. This beautiful place is known for its culinary bliss.

Restaurant Nauta

Recommended is the cozy restaurant Nauta, here is a famous Croatian way of cooking, namely by means of the Dalmatian Peka. This is a metal bell under which a dish is placed, often with lamb and potatoes, which is then covered with hot coals. Fancy something different? You can jump out of a perfectly functioning airplane over Stari Grad!
 

Day 4: Stari Grad - Hvar

Next stop, the town of Hvar. This lively village is located in the south-west of the island of the same name. It is known for its many activities, sights and especially its nightlife. There is partying going on here. When sailing along the south side of the nearby island of Paklinski Otoci, a distance of 17 n.m. must be covered from Stari Grad.

If you go along the north side, it is 14 n.m. It is often very difficult to moor or anchor in Hvar itself because of the crowds, so it is convenient to park your boat in one of the bays of Paklinski Otoci. From here water cabs go to Hvar.

Day 5: Hvar - Vis

Day five of this sailing itinerary in Croatia takes you to the island of Vis, this is 14 n.m. sailing from Hvar/Paklinski Otoci, this is usually quite fast due to open water during the crossing. You can choose to sail to the main town of the island, but very beautiful are the cliffs and caves on the south side.

Beautifully hidden beaches

Ravnik and Stiniva in particular are simply beautiful. Stiniva is very iconic and has a beautiful hidden beach, perfect for spending the whole day. Fancy a tasty bite to eat? Konoba Senko Karuza is a restaurant located in the bay to the right of Stiniva and is known for “slow dining. Dining here for hours is very common, and that while enjoying homemade wine and food prepared with local ingredients. Furthermore, in the town of the same name you can find plenty of nice restaurants and from there you can also do a very nice (military) tour of the island. Fish has a long nautical military history, which is very interesting. Would you like to dream away in the most idyllic and beautiful Mediterranean bar in Vis? Go to Lola Konoba!
 

Day 6: Vis - Marina Kastela

Day six has arrived, and it's time to set course for Marina Kastela again. Directly from the south side of the island of Vis, the distance is 35 n.m., so leave on time! On average, this will take you about six hours. This route goes between the islands of Šolta and Brač. It is also possible to sail along the eastern side of the island of Šolta. This makes the distance a good 42 n.m., this is perhaps more for the experienced sailor. Again, check the weather forecast well! Sunglasses on and the wind in your hair, a nice long day of sailing!