Why choose Croatia for a cruise?
With 1185 islands, hauled in by the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic, Croatia has become one of the must-see destinations for a cruise. This country with its rich heritage offers you a unique blend of wild landscapes, villages and remarkable historical sites.
Whether you are passionate about sailing or simply looking to relax, a cruise in Croatia promises to be an unforgettable experience.
An exceptional coastline
Croatia is known as the "pearl of the Adriatic", and has one of the most spectacular coastlines in Europe, stretching over 6,000 km of coastline. Clear waters, secret coves and varied reliefs make Croatia an ideal destination for boaters. Along its coast, each stopover reveals a new enchanting setting, with white cliffs plunging into turquoise seas, pine forests and villages where time seems to have stood still thanks to its Mediterranean climate, Croatia will offer you optimal sailing conditions.
An ideal destination for all travelers
Whether you are a sailing enthusiast, a culture lover or simply want to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, a cruise in Croatia has something for everyone. Every traveler is sure to find what they are looking for. The short distances between the islands make for smooth and accessible sailing. Ideal for sailing from port to port. Croatia is also known for its 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a true open-air museum. Each stopover will allow you to immerse yourself in a rich and fascinating history. For epicureans, the choice will be varied, between freshly caught seafood, local olive oil and renowned wines, each stopover is an invitation to discover local specialties.
When to go to Croatia?
With a Mediterranean climate, Croatia offers pleasant sailing conditions for most of the year. With sunny days, calm seas and smooth sailing, it adapts to all your desires.
The best times for a cruise in Croatia
Croatia is best visited between May and October because of its sunshine and dry summers. Each season offers a different experience:
- Spring: (April to June) the temperatures are still mild and the sea is gradually warming up. The ports and tourist sites are still quiet. For sailing enthusiasts, this season is ideal with light winds and optimal conditions. Finally, the landscapes are in full bloom, offering you a breathtaking display of colors.
- Summer: (July, August) During this season, it's the perfect rendezvous with the sun! Temperatures vary between 25 and 35 degrees. It is the ideal season to enjoy the sea and for family vacations in Croatia. Water sports and diving are very popular. It also has the longest days of the year, with up to 14 hours of daylight. But this season is also the most popular, with large crowds and higher prices.
- Autumn: (September, October) this season still has warm but pleasant temperatures, between 20 and 28°. Navigation is also more fluid with fewer people. The rates are more affordable and all the conditions for a peaceful cruise are met.
- Winter: (November to March) a season with very few tourists, allowing for an authentic discovery of coastal towns. Temperatures are cooler but remain mild on the coast. This season is ideal for cultural visits and sampling the local cuisine.
Sailing conditions in Croatia
Sailing in Croatia is relatively simple, the Adriatic Sea is generally calm and predictable. However, it is important to find out about the wind in Croatia in order to plan your choice of boat and your sailing itineraries. The Croatian Adriatic is less rough than other Mediterranean seas, allowing you to sail with complete peace of mind. With a regular mistral wind, it is pleasant for sailing and while cruising.
Temperature | Jan | Feb | March | Apr | May | June | July | August | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Air min | 5 ° | 6 ° | 8 ° | 11 ° | 15° | 19 ° | 22 ° | 22 ° | 18 ° | 14 ° | 10 ° | 6 ° |
Air max | 11 ° | 12 ° | 14 ° | 18 ° | 23 ° | 27 ° | 30° | 30° | 26 ° | 21 ° | 16° | 12 ° |
What budget should I allow for the type of cruise I want?
- Cabin cruise: ideal for people traveling alone or in pairs. It allows you to book a cabin with private bathroom on board a sailboat, catamaran or yacht shared with other passengers and a crew. A cruise in a small committee, on a human scale where everything is included: organization (booking of plane tickets, excursions on site...), meals, activities and services on board.
- Bareboat yacht charter: if you are an experienced sailor with a boat license, you can charter a sailboat or catamaran in Croatia for a completely independent cruise.
- Yacht charter with skipper: would you prefer to relax while sailing? The skippered option is a wise choice. He will help you discover new spots and you can enjoy your cruise without worrying about navigating the boat.
Type of cruise | High season july-August | Mid-season may-June and Sept-Oct | Low season november to April |
Maritime | 3,300 USD | 2,380 USD | 1,750USD |
River | 2,590 USD | 2,504 USD | 1,615 USD |
Croatia's must-see sights by cruise
With its countless islands, Croatia is a prime destination for cruise passengers. Here are a few must-see ports of call to consider during your trip:
- Dubrovnik: a fortified city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its impressive ramparts and historical monuments, it is a major port of call on a cruise along the Croatian coast.
- Split: a city known for its ancient history that blends with modern life. You can discover various palaces from the Roman Empire as well as local markets and beaches perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun.
- Hvar: known for its port, idyllic beaches and vineyards. This island offers a lively nightlife with a festive atmosphere. However, the surrounding villages offer more peaceful experiences.
- Vis: less crowded than the others, this island is appreciated for its unspoiled nature. With its famous Blue Cave on the islet of Biševo, it is a major attraction not to be missed, as are its wild coves ideal for swimming and diving.
- Korčula: a fortified town known for its Cathedral of St. Mark, this island is also considered the birthplace of Marco Polo. It is also recommended for its wines. A tasting at one of the many vineyards is a must.
- Mljet: home to a national park known for its salt lakes, monasteries and dense forests. It is a true paradise for nature lovers and hikers.
- Lastovo: less well known than the others and more remote, it is perfect for a peaceful stopover away from the crowds. Its unspoiled landscapes will offer you an authentic experience.
The Dalmatia region
Dalmatia is a coastal region hauled in by the Adriatic Sea over more than 350 km and stretching from the north of Croatia to Montenegro. Known for its thousands of islands, the Dalmatian coast is full of natural wonders and idyllic sites. It is divided into 3 very distinct areas:
- Northern Dalmatia: very natural, this region is a must for its many national parks and the Krka waterfalls.
- Central Dalmatia: festivities and heavenly beaches, Hvar and Split, the Croatian Saint Tropez, are the flagship islands of this region.
- Southern Dalmatia: known for Dubrovnik and its history, but that's not all. The numerous wild islands and hidden coves that surround it are part of its charm. This southern region is ideal for catamaran charter.
Excursions and activities in Croatia
Croatia is the perfect place to enjoy a variety of activities to enrich your cruise. Whether you are a lover of nature, history or thrills, each port of call will offer you unique experiences.
Water sports
- Scuba diving and snorkeling: with its crystal-clear waters, Croatia is ideal for exploring marine life. Sites such as the Kornati National Park offer exceptional diving spots.
- Water sports: during some stopovers you can veer off to enjoy water-skiing, kayaking or even take part in sailing courses.
Hiking and land excursions
- National parks: Krka is known and renowned for its majestic waterfalls and wooded trails offering you total immersion and the opportunity to swim in natural pools.
- Cycling and climbing: Croatia is perfect for these activities. The village of Brela offers beacon-marked cycle paths that are ideal for a family outing, as well as climbing sites on the Biokovo massif, for a unique outdoor activity.
Cultural and historical visits
- Historic cities: Dubrovnik, Split, full of castles, churches and museums, offering you a real dive into the history of Croatia.