Croatia & Dalmatian Coast
Explore the Thousand Islands of Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast
- Best: May - September (Best: June & September)
- 25-32°C / 77-90°F
Discover Croatia & Dalmatian Coast
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast isn’t the most well-known Mediterranean gem, which makes it all the more charming. The sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea flow around over 1,000 island gems. These islands hold protected natural areas, medieval walled cities, and exceptional culture and cuisine. From its national parks, Split’s Roman palace, and Dubrovnik’s legendary walls to Hvar’s lavender fields and nightlife, Vis’s hidden coves, and Kornati’s wild archipelago, the scene is set for an amazing yacht charter along the Dalmatian Coast.
Dubrovnik
The recognized “Pearl of the Adriatic” UNESCO World Heritage Site, Baroque architecture with ancient city walls, is famed as the filming location for Game of Thrones.
Hvar & Pakleni Islands
Upscale nightlife, elite beach clubs, aromatic lavender fields, prime culinary opportunities, secluded coves
Split & Diocletian's Palace
Known as the gateway to central Dalmatia, a bustling waterfront abutting Diocletian’s Palace, cultural events at Peristyle square
Vis & Kornati
Fascinating military history on remote Adriatic islands, a national park archipelago with unspoiled wilderness, and the surreal glow of Blue Cave
When to charter
- Peak Season
July - August
An energized vibe with idyllic coastal conditions
Advantages
- Access to all attractions and services
- Notable festivals and cultural events
- Perfect conditions for water recreation
Considerations
- Prices are highest during peak season
- Top venues get crowded
- Early booking and reservations are essentia
- Crowded anchorages
- Ideal Season
May - June & September
A more relaxed experience with comfortable weather
Advantages
- Better rates are available outside peak season
- Calmer seas provide smoother sailing
- Fewer crowds make travel more enjoyable
- Milder weather
- Fragrant lavender blooms in June
Considerations
- Some restaurant and venue closures in late September
- Cooler water in May
- Off Season
October - April
A secluded journey with affordable pricing
Advantages
- Most affordable prices of the year
- Sparse tourism allows you to experience authentic local life
- Quiet and peaceful marinas
- Cooler temperatures
Considerations
- Many prime venues close during the offseason
- Chilly water
- Fluctuating weather conditions
- and Fewer hours of sunlight
Sample itineraries
Central Dalmatia (7 Days)
7 days / 6 nights
Central Dalmatia’s top destinations in seven days
Central Dalmatia (7 Days)7 days / 6 nightsCentral Dalmatia’s top destinations in seven days
Day 1
- Split:
- Embarkation at ACI Marina, Diocletian's Palace visit, Riva promenade
Day 2
- To Brač (12 NM):
- Zlatni Rat beach, Bol town, Water sports
Day 3
- To Hvar (15 NM):
- Lavender fields, Hvar Town nightlife, Fortica fortress sunset
Day 4
- Pakleni Islands:
- Secluded coves, Palmižana, Beach clubs, Crystal waters
Day 5
- To Vis (20 NM):
- Blue Cave excursion, Vis Town, Military tunnels tour
Day 6
- To Šolta (25 NM):
- Maslinica village, Peaceful bays, Local konoba dining
Day 7
- Return to Split:
- Final morning, Disembarkation
Dubrovnik to Split (10 Days)
10 days / 9 nights
An Adriatic adventure to the best of Dalmatia
Dubrovnik to Split (10 Days)10 days / 9 nights An Adriatic adventure to the best of Dalmatia
Day 1
- Dubrovnik
- Embarkation, City walls walk, Old Town exploration
Day 2
- Elaphiti Islands (10 NM):
- Šipan, Lopud, Koločep, Sandy beaches
Day 3
- To Mljet (25 NM):
- National Park, Salt lakes, Monastery island, Cycling
Day 4
- To Korčula (30 NM):
- Medieval town, Marco Polo's house, Wine tasting
Day 5
- To Lastovo (20 NM):
- Remote island, Nature park, Traditional architecture
Day 6
- To Vis (35 NM):
- Blue Cave, Green Cave, Stiniva beach
Day 7
- To Hvar (20 NM):
- Hvar Town, Lavender, Nightlife
Day 8
- Pakleni Islands:
- Beach hopping, Palmižana, Water sports
Day 9
- To Brač (15 NM):*
- Zlatni Rat, Bol, Vidova Gora viewpoint
Day 10
- To Split (12 NM):
- Disembarkation
Please note: All itineraries are flexible and can be customized to your preferences. Weather conditions and local events may require adjustments. Your captain will work with you to create the perfect voyage.
Available yachts
Charter requirements & logistics
Cuisine & Provisioning
Treat yourself to delicious meals of rakija, Plavac Mali wine, black risotto, oysters from Ston, slow-cooked peka, and pašticada. Provisioning services are available in Split, Dubrovnik, and Zadar.
Culture & Heritage
Explore the famed UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Dubrovnik, Split’s palace, and Starigrad Plain. Appreciate the area’s Venetian and Austro-Hungarian influences through traditional klapa music and island festivals.
Navigation Conditions
The Adriatic Sea is typically calm, but warm Jugo winds from the southeast and cold Bura winds from the northeast should be monitored. The clear waters and rocky coastlines pose other potential hazards. Short passageways between islands range from 10 to 30 NM.
Regulatory Requirements
The Croatian VAT of 25%, which is the highest in the EU, applies. Travelers must obtain a Vignette cruising certificate at the first port, and skippers must be properly licensed. The APA ranges between 30% and 35%. There are entrance fees to the national parks.
Currency & Payments
The official currency in Croatia is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are accepted at most establishments. Smaller businesses and konobas may require cash.
Language
The official language in Dalmatia is Croatian, and Italian is also commonly used along the coastline. In tourist areas and marinas, and by young Croatians, English is increasingly used..
Access & Transportation
Air travel to the Dalmatian Coast is available at Split Airport (SPU), Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), and Zadar Airport (ZAD). Catamarans and ferries are available between cities and larger islands.
Marinas & Berthing
Marinas and berths often have good availability even during the peak season. In addition to town harbors, options include ACI Marina Split, Marina Frapa in Rogoznica, ACI Marina Dubrovnik, and Palmižana in the Pakleni Islands.
Premier Anchorages
Top-rated anchorages on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast include Stiniva Bay and Uvala Baluni in Vis, Palmižana in Hvar, Zlatni Rat in Brač, Vela Luka in Korčula, Koločep, and Telašćica in Dugi Otok.
Insider tips
Expert recommendations for Croatia & Dalmatian Coast
While booking isn’t necessary at most venues, limited space is available at Dubrovnik. In addition, many venues are significantly busier in August. It’s best to arrive at Blue Cave and Hvar Town earlier in the day to beat crowds. Dining delights include fresh oysters at Mali Ston Bay and authentic Konoba dining. Vis opened to foreigners only in 1989 and retains an undiscovered aura. Take advantage of the mooring buoys when visiting Mljet National Park. Some national parks require permits and park fees. The famed King’s Landing of Game of Thrones lore is in Dubrovnik.
Ready to explore Croatia & Dalmatian Coast?
Let our charter specialists craft your perfect itinerary through these magnificent islands.
