Yacht charter Dalmatia

   By Agathe LAMIGEON

March 14, 2022

Reading time: 10 minutes

Summary

1. Practical information for your yacht charter in Croatia
2. Why go to Dalmatia?
3. Which Dalmatian islands are there to discover?
4. The best anchorages on the Dalmatian islands
5. What activities can you enjoy on your vacation in Dalmatia?
6. What sailing itinerary should you follow?
7. What are the weather conditions?

"Sailing in Croatia is the perfect opportunity to sail from island to island without getting your mast top in a twist. All you have to do is enjoy yourself and let the waves carry you away", says François, who went with his family for a week in mid-August with Filovent, on board a Lagoon 380 S2.

Located along the sublime Adriatic Sea, Dalmatia is a perfect destination for boaters in search of a change of scenery. Its excellent sailing conditions, numerous idyllic islands, historical past and year-round sunshine will make you fall in love with the region.

1. Practical information for your yacht charter in Croatia

The various departure bases

To set off for boarding the Dalmatian islands, the best departure points that I can recommend are Trogir and Split. You can decide to board a boat from one of the many ACI Marinas in Croatia. This is a company seeking to modernize boating in Croatia. Their marinas are therefore all modern and well-equipped and their services meet the every need of boaters: restaurants, shops, laundry and even sanitary facilities.

Trogir is extremely popular with our customers who want to discover Dalmatia, since almost half of them regularly set sail from this base. Located about ten minutes by car from Split airport, you can board one of the 1,179 boats at the base. In 2021, 30 customers chose this option!

Split is a strategic point of departure for exploring the Dalmatian islands. Located half an hour's drive from Split airport, Filovent has 1,016 boats at its base. In 2021, 36 customers chose it as their point of departure.

Average rates according to the season and the size of the boat

Dalmatia is one of our customers' favorite destinations! You'll have a choice of more than 2,000 boats, the majority of which are boats with one hull (63%) and sublime catamarans (19%).

"The type of boat depends on the type of vacation. If you are more of a sailor, we recommend renting a sailboat; if you like comfort, then a catamaran," says Andelina, manager at Pitter Yacht Charter in Trogir, one of our main partners in Croatia.

The table below gives you a dead reckoning of the prices of the boats, for a week's charter. These prices may change depending on the season, availability, model, age of the boat, etc.

What license is required?

You can either decide to go with a professional skipper, or skipper your own boat.

The first option gives you peace of mind and means you only have to worry about your own well-being. But it also means the crew does not necessarily have to rely on someone with a boat license.

It is absolutely compulsory to sail with a boat license on Croatian waters. It is also essential to hold a CRR (Restricted Certificate of Radiotelephone Operator) in order to be able to use a very high frequency radio on the side of the boat. Don't panic, you can get this license from France through the Agence Nationale des Fréquences.

There are frequent checks in the region! So it's best to have your navigation license with you.

To summarize:

Our main partners on site

Here are our main partners on site, among the best rental companies in Croatia:

• Angelina Charter is a small Croatian family business, founded in 1995, which has grown into a large, renowned fleet. Its dedicated team, which always has your boat's sheets in hand, at any time of the day or night, receives the best feedback from our customers in Croatia. They give it an impressive average rating of 17.31/20. You can decide to board one of their 174 boats departing from Dalmatia, as 89 of our yachtsmen have already done.

• Dream Yacht Charter has been revolutionizing the world of sailing since 2000 by making the experience of sailing accessible to all. You can board one of its 165 Dalmatian boats and enjoy a unique experience! Its friendly and professional team has been highly rated by our 1,836 customers who have traveled with them, with an average of 17.26/20.

• Pitter Yacht Charter is an Austrian company that has been offering quality boats at the best prices since 1989. This partner, which specializes in Croatia, has a presence at 15 bases in the country and has a fleet of 309 boats of all types in Dalmatia. It obtained a good score of 16.42/20 from our 344 customers who went out on one of their boats.

• Navigare Yachting is a Swedish company with a strong presence in Croatia. My fellow advisors at Filovent are keen to emphasize the quality of their service and boat maintenance. One thing that makes them stand out is that you never have to pay a deposit on site! Their cruising package includes cleaning, outboard motor, bedding, towels and even Wi-Fi. So you can really sail with peace of mind! Our 166 customers who have gone with them give this rental company and its 92 boats in Dalmatia a superb rating of 17.21/20.

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2. Why go to Dalmatia?

The Dalmatian islands, which are among the most beautiful in Croatia, are very close to each other, making navigation easy and pleasant. "Our cruise in Croatia left us with great memories! The Dalmatian islands, which are pitchedclose to each other, are an excellent sailing area that allows you to alternate between beautiful days of sailing with moments of discovery, walks and relaxation," confides Mathieu, who sailed in August at the side of the Jeanneau 57.

Whatever your personality and your desires, you are bound to find the island that suits you perfectly. History buffs will love discovering the vestiges of the region's rich historical past in Trogir, while party animals can dance until the end of the night on Hvar. If you are looking for peace and quiet to relax and meditate in tranquility, the natural setting of Vis will make you feel a deep sense of well-being.

Dalmatia is a magical place to discover by sail! (YouTube video)

3. Which Dalmatian islands are there to discover?

The Dalmatian islands are a real jewel of the Adriatic Sea. They are very close to each other and yet different, so I recommend visiting them all. Sailing there is very easy, and for Mathieu, it's a great destination to discover with the family! "The fact that the islands are not too far from each other means that the days are well balanced and more enjoyable. The trips take a maximum of half a day, so the young people can quickly go for a swim and explore on land," he informs me.

"It seems to me that a 7 to 14 day cruise is optimal given that there are so many things to do and see!", advises Marija, manager at Ultra Sailing, one of our rental partners in Trogir.

The island of Solta

The pretty, authentic island of Solta is generally the first stop on your cruise. It has retained all its natural charm and you will be completely transported into Croatian culture amidst its sublime little coves and stone houses.

Of its four ports, I recommend you moor at Maslenica. This old fishing village is very charming! "Maslenica, on the island of Šolta, is a pleasant little port that you can visit on the first or last day of your trip, as it is the closest to our base in Trogir and offers a magnificent view of the sunset that you absolutely must see", Ana Maria fromAngelina Charter, one of our partner charter companies in Trogir. You can also take a trip to the island's main port, Rogač, or stroll along the oldest, the port of Stomorska.

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The south of the island is full of magnificent quiet and wild coves. Snorkeling enthusiasts will be delighted to explore an old shipwreck hidden in Nečujam Bay.

The island of Brač

The place not to be missed on the island of Brač, but also on your cruise in Dalmatia, is Zlatni rat beach. Its original V-shape has earned it the nickname"Golden Horn". Located in Bol, it has often been voted the most beautiful beach in Europe. It is well worth a visit! But where there's fame, there's also crowds. I therefore advise you to go there only after 5 p.m., when families and tourists leave the beach.

Visit the center of Bol, where you will find many good restaurants and bars, such as the"Cocktail Bar Boler," which serves excellent cocktails in a beautiful setting. I highly recommend getting an ice cream to enjoy during your visit! You will need strength to climb to the highest peak on the island, Vidova Gora. You will quickly be rewarded with an incredible view of the whole of Brač.

For a more peaceful experience and even to spend the night, I recommend the south of the island. An anchored boat will be safe in one of its wild coves amidst its many reliefs, between Murvica and Blaca.

The island of Vis

"The island of Vis is a must-see!", says Marija from Ultra Sailing. Alexandre, who went on a cruise with Filovent on a Sun Odyssey 408 from Split, even admits that it is one of his favorite places: "Vis is a beautiful, wild island. From his boat, it is a green rock in the middle of the calm waters of the Adriatic Sea. Its picturesque villages, Vis and Komiza, and its stone houses are what give this island its charm." If they both think so, it's for a good reason!

There is so much to do and see on this island that you will need to spend at least a whole day there. There is something for everyone! Wine lovers can visit the vineyards, which account for more than 20% of the island's cultivated land. At the end of the visit, enjoy a glass of Vugaya (white) or Plavac (red), considered the best wines in the country. Hikers and cyclists can take a long tour of the island. Finally, history buffs can take a leap back in time by discovering the sumptuous monuments of the Hellenistic period, such as the thermal baths or the remains of the theater.

Don't leave the island without having seen with your own eyes the two marvelous, almost supernatural caves in the open sea off its coast. The first, located in Biševo, is called the Blue Grotto because of the marvelous blue reflections on the walls when the sun shines through. I recommend that you go and observe this phenomenon at midday, when it is at its most striking. But beware, even if it is very tempting, it is forbidden to bathe there! It is only accessible on excursions from Komiža, for 8 euros in low season and 14 euros in high season.

Another cave with a similar phenomenon is called the Green Cave. This time, it is the green algae that are reflected, and swimming is allowed! Access is provided by frequent excursions from Rukavac for 10 euros, and it is free in low season!

Take a tour of the Blue Grotto, wonder guaranteed! (YouTube video)

The island of Hvar

The longest of the Dalmatian islands is called Hvar. A multi-faceted island, you can choose between a quiet atmosphere and a festive atmosphere. It all depends on your type of vacation, but also on your mood at the time! Nothing prevents you from combining the two.

Stroll through the town of Hvar, considered the Croatian Saint-Tropez. I recommend you go and shake your hips, cocktail in hand, at"Carpe Diem", the most famous bar in the town. Maybe you'll bump into your favorite star! The next morning, climb to the top of the Spanish fortress overlooking the city to admire the view at sunrise.

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If you are looking for a more peaceful setting and you appreciate calm, moor up at the port of Stari Grad, in the heart of a typically Croatian setting. Then stroll through the beautiful narrow streets of the city. As the port is often crowded, an alternative would be to anchor your boat in the bay just next to it. "It's a perfect anchorage because you'll be well protected from the wind," advises Marija from Ultra Sailing.

Lucia, an advisor at Veritas Yachting Europe, gave me the good plan to go eat at the"Taverne Ringo", where "you'll get a free mooring with your meal!" As well as offering a magnificent view of the bay, the owner is incredibly kind and welcoming, you will feel at home!

Once you have completed the tour of the island, head for the "hellish islands", their real name: the Pakleni Islands. Contrary to their name, they are of unparalleled beauty and peacefulness. Their name comes from their many pine trees, called "paklina" in Croatian, which over time became"pakao", meaning"hell". Take a tour of this archipelago made up of 21 islets with flat, rocky surfaces, covered with lush vegetation.

4. The best anchorages on the Dalmatian islands

The Blue Lagoon

Located between the two islands of Krknjaš, the Blue Lagoon is the must-see anchorage during a cruise in Dalmatia! Have lunch in the heart of this movie set and put on your mask and snorkel to explore the seabed.

Stiniva Bay

The majestic Stiniva Bay, south of Vis, is a truly picturesque gem that will charm you. It was even voted the most beautiful beach in Europe by the tourism organization"European Best Destinations" in 2016. You will feel cocooned by the grandiose white cliffs as you swim in the heart of this small, secluded and charming bay. The fact that it is difficult to reach by foot means that you won't be in the middle of the crowds! I recommend going for a drink at the little"Taverne de Peruka", nestled in the hollow of the cliffs, to cool off.

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Vinogradisce Bay

The Hell islands have numerous anchorages, each more heavenly than the last. The bright green of the pine trees blends with the azure blue of the sea and its sparkling white rocky shores. It's almost supernatural! How can you not fall in love with the place?

"The best moment of our stay in nature was the anchorage at Vinogradisce, in the Klement archipelago, not far from Hvar. It wasn't too crowded and the water was absolutely sublime. It was a magical moment," confided Mathieu, amazed, who was sailing on a Jeanneau 57. "We liked the place so much that we went back a second time."

No wonder this jewel is one of the most beautiful anchorages in the Mediterranean!

The magnificent anchorage of Vinogradisce Bay (YouTube video)

Uvala Kravljačica

"The anchorage at Uvala Kravljačica is by the buoy. The place is lovely and there are quite a few restaurants on land. We were able to catch a magnificent sunset there and took a nice little stroll on land to the top of the hill to get an incredible view of the islands," Nicole tells me. She went in October with Filovent from Trogir.

5. What activities can you enjoy on your vacation in Dalmatia?

Hiking

Walking enthusiasts will be delighted! You will find hiking trails on all the Dalmatian islands. Some go all the way around and allow you to combine vegetation with the azure sea, and others take you to the top of the island.

I highly recommend a hike to Vidova Gora, the highest peak in Brač. This climb is not for beginners, but will enchant budding hikers, who will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the entire island. The immense Zlatni rat beach looks so small from above!

Take a superb hike to the summit of Vidova Gora! (YouTube video)

Cycling and quad biking

Lose yourself in the interior of the island of Hvar and take a deep breath of fresh air in the heart of nature. "We rented quads and bikes and set off to explore Hvar. This allowed the more athletic among us to work up a sweat on the bikes and the children to rest a little on the quads," explains Mathieu , who sailed on a Jeanneau 57.

For nature lovers, get on a bike to discover one of the most impressive places in the country: the river in Krka National Park. You can follow it along a wild trail and stop in front of its majestic waterfalls.

"We left the boat in Skradin and rented bikes very early in the morning before the other visitors arrived", revealed Nicole, who sailed on a Sun Odyssey 379. "The journey is not long, about 20 minutes by bike. The rental companies also have electric bikes. There are several rental companies along the quay. It costs 50 kunas for 3 hours and day passes are also available."

Diving and snorkeling

Put on your mask and snorkel and set off to discover Croatia's colorful seabed in magnificent crystal-clear water.

Snorkeling enthusiasts will find what they are looking for by admiring the fish-filled depths of the Blue Lagoon or the hidden wrecks, such as in Nečujam Bay. Close-hauled to the island of Brač, marvel at the Roman mosaics dating from the 3rd century BC. Like a taste of Atlantis!

Diving fans can jump off the deck of their boat while exploring the surroundings of Hvar.

A little snorkeling session in the Blue Lagoon and the discovery of a shipwreck! (YouTube video)

6. What sailing itinerary should you follow?

Sailing itinerary for a week's sailing from Split

based on my research and the advice of Sabrina, who is used to sailing in the region, and Angelina Charter, one of our charter partners, I have put together a pleasant sailing itinerary starting from Split. This port is the favorite starting point for our boaters, as it is ideally located for visiting all the Dalmatian islands. I have taken particular care to include the places that are not to be missed, but also to alternate between wild anchorages and ports. This sailing itinerary is perfect if you want a peaceful vacation and have time to properly visit each stopover!

Total distance traveled: 119 miles

• Day 1: Split > Blue Lagoon > Maslinica (15 miles ~ 3 hours)
• Day 2: Maslinica → Vis (21 miles ~ 4 hours)
• Day 3: Vis > Biševo Blue Cave > Komiža (12 miles ~ 2 hours)
• Day 4: Komiža → îles infernales → Hvar (24 miles ~ 5 hours)
• Day 5: Hvar -> Stari Grad -> Bol (25 miles ~ 5 hours)
• Day 6: Bol → Uvala Nečujam → Split (22 miles ~ 4 hours)

Sailing itinerary for a week starting from Split (clickable map)

DAY 1: Split → Blue Lagoon → Maslinica (15 miles ~ 3 hours)

On the first day, set a course for the Blue Lagoon, arriving there around midday. Be careful where you anchor your boat, as some of the seabed is rockier than others, and some places are more crowded! Take the opportunity to have a nice swim in the clear water and put on your mask and snorkel for a little snorkeling session. In the evening, head for the pretty port of Maslinica, considered one of the most beautiful in Croatia, to spend the night. Have dinner on the terrace of the beautiful restaurant"Sampjer". It offers a magnificent elevated view, so you can see the sunset. You can sample some tasty traditional dishes, at a rather high price.

DAY 2: Maslinica → Vis (21 miles ~ 4 hours)

The next morning, head for the island of Vis, where you can stock up on provisions for your boat. You will find several"Studenac Markets" along the harbor. Rent a bike to spend the day touring the island; there are plenty of"rent a bike" agencies in the city center. The daily rental fee is 8 USD. Have a picnic on one of the beaches in the south of the island, such as in Stiniva Bay. Difficult to access, it is very rarely visited. Go for a drink at the little"Taverne de Peruka", nestled in the hollow of the cliffs, to cool off.

DAY 3: Vis → Blue Grotto of Biševo → Komiža (12 miles ~ 2 hours)

Take the opportunity to visit the mystical Blue Grotto by taking the ferry from Komiža, where you will leave your boat. It's best to go at midday, which is the best time to admire the phenomenon, with the sun's rays casting the cave in blue, hence its name! The visit will cost you around 22 USD per person. In the evening, return to Komiža, and have dinner at the"Fabrika", offering good typical dishes for around ten euros.

DAY 4: Komiža → îles infernales → Hvar (24 miles ~ 5 hours)

Head for the island opposite, Hvar. I recommend that you don't leave too late for the infernal islands, and remember to call the port of Hvar to book a place for the night, otherwise you'll find yourself anchored at the buoy for the night. Anchored boats can spend the day in one of the idyllic bays, such as Vinogradisce. Take a deep breath of fresh air while admiring the unique features of this natural environment. In the evening, head for the town of Hvar. Before going out in its trendy districts and enjoying a drink atthe "Carpe Diem", climb to the top of the fortress, overlooking the town, to admire a magnificent sunset over the entire coast. you will even see the lovely shapes of the "infernal islands" in the background! Don't leave without enjoying a delicious typical meal at"Mediterraneo Dine & Wine". 

DAY 5: Hvar → Stari Grad → Bol (25 miles ~ 5 hours)

Before changing islands, soak up some Croatian culture with a stop at the charming port of Stari Grad. Stroll through its narrow streets. In the afternoon, head for the town of Bol on Brač. Pass by the famous Zlatni Rat beach, known for its horn shape. If you want to set foot there, try to get there after 5pm, when it's much less crowded!

DAY 6: Bol → Uvala Nečujam → Split (22 miles ~ 4 hours)

Swim in the morning at Zlatni rat, quieter than during the day, then head for the center of Bol. Have a drink on a terrace or treat yourself at an ice cream parlor in the city. I recommend the excellent ice cream at"Gelateria Varadero" on the harbor. The bravest among you will climb to the top of Vidova Gora to get a magnificent point of view over the island, after having eaten a good healthy Croatian meal atthe "BioMania Bistro". Your cruise is touching the seabed, it's time to return to the port of Split! Take a short afternoon break at Uvala Nečujam. This peaceful anchorage also hides an old wreck. Have fun finding it!

François, our sales manager, has put together another week-long sailing itinerary for you in Dalmatia.

7. What are the weather conditions?

In summer, temperatures are around 20°C and can even reach 27°C! I understand that it is very pleasant to lie down for a little siesta, but don't forget to cool off regularly in the azure waters, usually beyond 20°C.don't forget to cool off regularly in the azure waters, which are generally over 20°C.

I recommend that you pack your bags to leave in April or September. It seems to me that this is the best compromise between a warm, dry climate and the tranquility of the off-season.

"The best time to sail is April, May and October," Andelina from Pitter Yacht Charter tells me. She strongly recommends June for "relaxing, sightseeing and swimming" for the simple reason that it is "the start of the swimming season and there are not many people around yet."

Dalmatia is the easiest and most -navigable area in the country, and therefore promises a peaceful vacation without a hitch! The winds in Croatia blow little, and rarely above wind force 3. The most common is the Mistral, coming from the northwest. You will love it, as it reduces the sensation of heat. The Bura, coming from the northeast, is a less pleasant wind, as it is extremely strong and unpredictable. Fortunately, it only blows for short periods, and even if you encounter it, you can always shelter between the numerous Dalmatian islands!

"There is not too much wind, which is very pleasant because we hardly had to use the engine, and the night was calm", says François, who sailed in August.

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank François, Mathieu, Alexandre and Nicole for their testimonies, which have added authenticity to the article. Many thanks also to Andelina, Marija, Lucia and Ana Maria for their valuable professional advice.