If you want to experience the best of summertime Croatia in as little time as possible, chartering a boat is your best bet for an unforgettable adventure.
Let's set sail and explore four distinct sailing regions, each brimming with breathtaking beauty and hidden treasures.
Southern Dalmatia: Dubrovnik's Medieval Majesty
Dubrovnik, the crown jewel of Southern Dalmatia, offers a mesmerizing experience as you sail around its ancient walls, mirroring the view of foreign vessels from centuries past. As the region's largest charter base, Dubrovnik has nearly 300 boats of all sizes to offer, each one ready to whisk you away to nearby wonders like Mljet National Park, the wine-rich Pelješac Peninsula, and the Renaissance harbor of Korčula. For an added adventure, set course for Montenegro and bask in the beauty of the winding Bay of Kotor, with its picturesque villages and towering mountains that shoot up almost vertically from the shoreline.
Central Dalmatia: Split's Island-Hopping Paradise
With over 1500 boats available for charter, Split region serves as Central Dalmatia's main hub. Embark on an island-hopping escapade to the island of Vis or Lastovo Nature Park, with stops at the captivating Brač and Hvar along the way.
Northern Dalmatia: Zadar's Archipelago Adventures
Northern Dalmatia, Croatia's largest charter destination, boasts more than 2000 boats in half a dozen marinas from Zadar to Biograd na Moru. Prepare to be captivated by the Kornati National Park and a couple of hundred other islands and islets, and plan for nearly an inexhaustible supply of bays and coves to explore.
Istria & Kvarner Bay: Pula's Coastal Charms
Pula, situated at the tip of the Istrian Peninsula, serves as Northern Croatia's primary naval base. From here, venture to Brijuni National Park and Rt Kamenjak, each with plenty of natural anchorages. Across the Kvarner Bay, discover the islands of Lošinj and Cres, along with the tranquil allure of Unije, Ist, Molat, Susak, and others.
Pro Tip: The Ultimate Croatian Adventure for Two Families
Maximize your Croatian vacation by renting a boat in Zadar for two weeks and a villa in Istria for the same duration. One family sails from Zadar to Istria, taking in the stunning Kornati Islands and Kvarner Bay, while the other enjoys the villa. The second week, they switch roles, ensuring everyone experiences the best of both worlds. This approach also allows you to take advantage of discounts on longer bookings and avoid drop-off fees at different marinas.
