Private Charter in Croatia

Why Sail in Croatia?

For a small country, Croatia has an enviable 3000 miles of breathtaking coastline. The Croatian Adriatic is home to over 1200 islands (last official count totaled 1244) which combined with its coastline, forms an archipelago paradise unlike anywhere in the world.

Each new visit to the Croatian islands is an opportunity for discovery, new adventures, experiences, and memories in the gorgeous playground of the Adriatic Sea.

The islands of Croatia are a paradise best explored with a private charter. Onboard a sailing or motor yacht, discover the charms of the Adriatic – stunning translucent water, pristine beaches and coves, glimmering sunsets which melt into the sea, and stars illuminating the night sky. Gliding along the translucent waters of the Adriatic is the most romantic and apropos way to explore the coastline of this beautiful country.

With an ideal climate, rich culture, and unparalleled natural beauty, the Croatian Adriatic offers an experience like nowhere else on earth.

Having one of the largest charter fleets in the world, the selection of vessels means there is something for every traveler.

Tasteful Croatian Journeys creates sailing holidays that makes dreams come true.

Browse Yacht and Gulet Charters

Wanda’s Croatia

A message from our Founder & President

I often say that sailing in Croatia is a once in a lifetime experience, but that’s not true –

Once you experience sailing in Croatia, you will have to do it over and over again. We must warn you that the experience can be addictive.

As a pioneer in luxury tourism in Croatia, when I started organizing the first tours for American travelers to Croatia in 1994, no one was imagining that Croatia would develop into one of the world’s most desired destinations.

A paradise known to locals, and nearby European neighbors, Croatia is now recognized by travelers around the world as a luxurious and elegant paradise.

During the past two decades I have personally sailed through virtually every expanse of Croatian waters. I have personally experienced all the richness of the Adriatic, an experience I dream of, and return to again year after year.

I invite our travelers to have and share this exquisite experience of dreams coming true.

Together with my trusted team of luxury travel designers, as well as my local Tasteful Croatian Journeys Concierge, I invite you to allow us to create a sailing experience that will go beyond your imagination and create lifelong memories.

 

– Wanda S. Radetti


More than 1000 reasons to sail in Croatia

A country with thousands of reasons to visit; stunning unspoiled nature, rich history and culture, preserved UNESCO sites and heritage, fresh and innovative Mediterranean cuisine, the world’s finest olive oils, elegant wines, charming ancient villages and one of the cleanest seas of the world – the glorious Adriatic.

Discover why Croatia is one of the most beloved sailing destinations worldwide.

Mediterranean Climate

More than 2500 hours of sunshine per year makes Croatia one of the sunniest country’s in the Mediterranean. The island of Hvar is known as the sunniest island in Europe, with 2,700 hours of sunshine annually. Due to the mild winter and perfect summertime water temperature of the sea, Croatia is a perfect destination for sailing.

The Sailing season in Croatia typically begins in April and runs through late October.

Adriatic Sailing conditions are usually very calm, although Croatia’s famous winds can sometimes blow in creating some real power for the sails.

Natural Parks and Nature Preserves

Brijuni

Located in the region of Istria, Brijuni is a group of 14 islands and islets. The islands are home to Ancient Roman settlements, centuries old quarries, and the former President Tito’s summer residence. The park boasts a rather surreal wildlife experience including a safari park with a spectacular collection of exotic animals that was gifted to Tito by the 60 heads of state who visited the residence.

Kornati National Park

Located in Central Dalmatia between Zadar and Šibenik, the Kornati National Park is made up of 89 islands in the Kornati archipelago. These islands, islets, and reefs, known for their scarcely habited lunar landscapes, create a one of a kind sailing paradise that has attracted sailors for years.

Mljet National Park

The island of Mljet is a perfect paradise of nature – land and sea. The North-western portion of the island has been a protected national Park since 1960. Within the park are two salt-water lakes (The Big Lake and the Small Lake). An island on the Big Lake holds a 12th century Benedictine Monastery. Enjoy a walk or bike ride around the lakes.

Krka National Park

Accessible via the historic coastal city of Šibenik, with its UNESCO world heritage site of Cathedral St. James. Cruise to the Krka National Park to explore its unspoiled waterfalls, pools, and trails of remarkable natural beauty.

Beaches and Bays

With thousands of stunning beaches along the Croatian Adriatic, our team of professional skippers and hostesses are your perfect guide to discovering your ideal spot! Your crew knows every beach, cove and bay. They will bring you to the best destinations for you to enjoy the day as you wish – whether that is playing in the sea, swimming in a secluded bay, snorkeling among wildlife, or lounging in a chic hot spot.

The Croatian Adriatic offers endless possibilities:

  • Stylish full-service beach clubs
  • Secluded sandy beaches accessible only by boat
  • World famous beaches such as Zlatni Rat (the Golden Horn) on the island of Brac
  • Snorkelling and Scuba diving to discover sunken ships and caves

Entertainment

If it is water sports you are dreaming of, our charter options of loaded with tons of amenities for play and fun! SUP, snorkels, kayaks, fishing, Sea-Bobs, and more. Kids of all ages will enjoy the adventures of water tubes, and adults can feel like a kid again driving a jet ski. Let your team of Travel Designers know what kind of adventures you are dreaming of so we can pair you with the perfect charter!

Special Moments make lasting memories — One of our recent travelers with two small children had most memorable evenings onboard of a catamaran where our team of skipper and hostess created their own private cinema on deck. While the children were enjoying a movie with popcorn, their parents watched stars illuminate the sky with a glass of fine Croatian wine.

Besides the amenities found at sea, entertainment is around every corner on land. Luxury beach clubs and lounge bars are set all along the Croatian coast. Your Tasteful Croatian Journeys Concierge will make special arrangements for you to enjoy a VIP guest experience.

Taste the Mediterranean

Croatia is a destination increasingly leaving its mark on international cuisine. Blessed with superb ingredients from both land and sea, Croatia offers guests excellent regional products and dishes. Central European dishes made with pork, veal, and poultry are found inland. Of course, while visiting the islands and coastal destinations, delight in the exceptional, fresh, local Mediterranean cuisine made of fish, octopus, and squid. Fresh vegetables and olive oils are almost always a part of every meal.

Along the Croatian coast there is a strong partnership between local fisherman and restaurants offering daily deliveries of freshly caught fish. It is typical to find menus composed of simple dishes accentuating the freshness, quality and flavor of the seafood. Some classic methods of preparation are gradele (grilled), brodetto (fish stew) or buzara (a style cooked with olive oil, wine, garlic, breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs). A local saying goes, “a fish swims three times in Croatia; first in the sea, then in olive oil, and lastly in wine while being consumed.”

Along the Adriatic coast you will find a variety of excellent restaurants, from rustic, traditional family run taverns, well known as “Konobas,” to fine dining and Michelin starred restaurants. All share one connection – high quality local, fresh ingredients.

Croatia’s tradition of wine making dates back thousands of years with more than 130 indigenous varieties of wines in Croatia.

From Istria in the north, to Dubrovnik in the South, exploring the Croatian coast is a chance to discover the many varieties of native and international grapes – the many tastes, aromas, and textures of delicate, rich and velvety Croatian wines.

Each harbor offers spectacular wineries to visit, from Istria’s malvazija, to žlahtina on the island of Krk, to Korčula’s famous varieties Grk, Pošip, and Plavac Mali.

Immerse yourself exploring the country’s many vineyards, set in stunning locations such as the hills of Istria or steep slopes of Hvar. A visit to the cellars can include a tour, tasting, and in some cases a tasting of wines carefully paired with food.

Wine is not the only tasting experience – Did you know that Istria is named as the best olive oil region in the world by Flos Olei?

With a long tradition of olive oil production, high-quality olive oils can be found in all of Croatia, including the islands of Krk, Cres, Pag, Šolta, Brač, Korčula and others.

Explore the lush gardens of Lun on the island of Pag, with more than 80,000 olive trees, some of which are more than 1,500 years old, and taste olive oils that are considered among the best in Croatia. Visit the Olive Oil museum in Škrip, the oldest village on the island of Bra, taste olives and local products and learn of the history and tradition of olive oil production in the region.

View our Croatia Gastronomy – Food & Wine page.

Culture & Heritage

Croatia has a rich culture and history, with a strong appreciation for preservation.

Croatia boasts a total of ten UNESCO World Heritage sites – Seven of these sites can be easily visited while traveling by boat along the Adriatic coast.

  1. Episcopal Complex of the Euphrasian Basilica in the Historic Center of Poreč
  2. Historic city of Trogir
  3. Historical Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian
  4. Old city of Dubrovnik
  5. Stari grad Plain on Hvar
  6. The Cathedral of St James in Šibenik
  7. The Venetian Works of Defense between the 16th and 17th Centuries – Walls of Zadar and St. Nicholas fortress in Šibenik

In addition to the sites, Croatia is home to UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage designations to be experienced while traveling by sea;

  1. Klapa singing of Dalmatia
  2. Lace making – (Benedictine nuns on the islands of Pag and Hvar)
  3. Mediterranean diet
  4. Festivity of Saint Blaise, the patron of Dubrovnik
  5. Procession Za Krizen, on the island of Hvar
  6. Art of dry-stone walling

Safety and Friendliness of Water

The iconic clear blue sea of the Croatian Adriatic is visually stunning, but equally impressive is the cleanliness of Croatian waters. The Croatian government has carefully and diligently worked to preserve the marine ecosystem and microbiology that produces excellent water quality.

As a testament to this ongoing effort, 95 beaches and 27 marinas in Croatia have been designated with Blue Flag awards, a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a non-profit organization.

Blue Flag locations meet stringent environmental, educational, safety and accessibility standards, agreeing to “ensure that safety measures are in place at all times, so that the staff, public and environment remain safe.”

Blue Flag designations advance the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations.


Private Charter Options

Our collection of best in class charter options in Croatia means that we have an alternative to meet the specific wishes and dreams of each traveler – from the finest in luxury yachting, to rugged sailing, to comfortable cruising – each charter type offers unique benefits and specialties.

With more than two and half decades of designing tailor made holidays in Croatia, we know that the type of vessel you choose will shape your experience. Whether you are dreaming of relaxation, high-speed performance, adventure and exploration, family fun or something unique, our carefully vetted collection of luxury charters is sure to have the perfect match to make dreams come true.

Types of Yachts

Private Catamaran Charter

With two hulls, Catamarans offer excellent balance and a very smooth ride, yet still provide the feeling of being on the water. Their design also provides spacious salons or living areas. Our catamarans range from modern but simple, to the very top luxury catamarans found on the seas!

Private Gullet Charter

Traditional wooden yachts with comfortable, and spacious interior and exteriors, Gulets are perfect for gathering together. The comfortable, roomy layout paired with a smooth and easy ride, make Gulets one of our favorite choices for groups or families.

Private Luxury Sailing Yacht Charter

Sailing is always an unforgettable experience, and the very best way to feel the sea, and connect with the experience of being on the water. The moment the sails take to the wind is something to remember forever.

Private Luxury Motor Yacht Charter

Motor yachts offer luxury, comfort, privacy and the ability to cruise farther for longer periods of time. Most offer several staterooms or cabins, bathrooms (head), kitchen (galley), a salon or living room, an open deck without outdoor seating area and area for lounging in the sun.


Private Charter Basics

What to know about Private Charter in Croatia

Luxury Services
Everything we create at Tasteful Croatian Journeys is completely tailor designed to your wishes. Our team of Croatia Specialists will offer a selection of charters based on the experience you are dreaming of. As with all of our bespoke trips, our Tasteful Croatian Journeys Concierge will be at your service to make VIP dining reservations, arrange wine tastings, secure event tickets, and more.

Skippered Yacht Charter
Each charter includes your private Captain (skipper). Our highly experienced teams are expert navigators, and sailors – they are also thoughtful and caring, to ensure your Croatia charter holiday is the perfect experience.

Since every charter is designed for your preferences, charters may also include additional crew, such as a hostess, deckhand, and chef.

Your Charter Crew
In addition to a Captain/Skipper, charters may also include additional crew members. In some cases, the number of crew members may be dictated by the size of the ship. In others, it may be possible to choose how many crew members you would like. Additional crew might include a hostess, deckhand, or chef.

The role of the crew includes tasks such as assisting the captain, ship maintenance, tidying up, provisioning, and preparing meals. To ensure a truly carefree getaway, we recommend having at least one crew member in addition to your captain.

Bareboat
Are you a licensed captain dreaming of a Croatia bareboat sailing experience? Let Tasteful Croatian Journeys present our offer of exceptional vessels. We will arrange all of your pre and post journey needs and can recommend a sailing itinerary based on your wishes.

Meals on Board
Depending on the size and type of your ship, half or full board options may be available for crewed charters. In other cases, we recommend the addition of a hostess – or for a truly gourmet experience, a chef – to handle grocery shopping and meal preparation. Your crew will be able to arrange meals according to your wishes and in line with your dietary requirements. Most travelers choose to have breakfast and one other meal on board, dining on shore for their third meal. Tasteful Croatian Journeys also provides our travelers with our personal suggestions for dining in each location they visit.

Budget
Our network and collection of charters means we have something for every budget. Many travelers may be surprised at the value offered in private charters. As with each trip we create, we start with your dreams, and your requirements, and build a trip perfectly tailored for you.


Croatia Charter Routes and Itineraries

The Croatian coastline, dotted with small historic cities, wineries, and pristine secluded bays, ensures that your charter itinerary will be full of interesting one-of-a-kind stops.

How much time do I need to see Croatia by boat?

While you could spend a lifetime exploring the Croatian Adriatic (Wanda sails the Adriatic nearly every year), most travelers will spend 1-2 weeks.

Charter itineraries can be one-way, starting and ending in different locations,or round-trip, completing in the boat’s home port.

A typical one-week charter will begin and end on a Saturday.

Embarkation on the first day takes place late in the afternoon, and disembarkation on the final day is normally in the morning.

A one-week charter is ideal for exploring one of Croatia’s coastal regions (outlined in more detail below). For example, in a single week, a round-trip charter could cover the area of Central Dalmatia. If doing a one-way charter, a greater area could be covered, such as Central and South Dalmatia. An example of this would be an itinerary beginning in Split and finishing in Dubrovnik, making stops along the way on the islands of Brac, Hvar, Vis, Korčula, Mljet and Šipan to name a few.

To explore a greater area and experience additional regions, or to explore a single region in greater depth, consider adding a second week.

Occasionally it is possible to arrange for charters for shorter periods of time, though availability for such itineraries is limited.

What regions are best for charter in Croatia?

Every region of Croatia offers a different experience. By understanding your vision, we will present options best suited to your needs.

Croatia’s Adriatic coast is divided into the following regions, from north to south:

Istria

The charm of the Istrian coast is its rocky shoreline, dotted with ancient fishing villages and bustling ports. What it lacks in sandy coves, it makes up for with culture and gastronomy. The most cosmopolitan area to sail, Istria has a strong Italian influence and a high concentration of marinas.

Some of Istria’s coastal towns include:

  • Rovinj
  • Poreč – home to a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Episcopal Complex of the Euphrasian Basilica in the Historic Center of Poreč
  • Umag
  • Pula – once a Roman port city, here you will find the Arena of Pula, the sixth largest Roman arena in the world, and one of the best preserved.

Some of Istria’s most notable islands are:

  • The Brijuni Islands – home to a national park

Kvarner

In the 19th century, Kvarner caught the eye of the European aristocracy, who were attracted to the area by its beauty and mild climate. Posh villas, once the vacation homes of nobility, still line the riviera. In Opatija especially, the influence of the Austro-Hungarian Empire is visible. In recent years, the islands of Losinj and Rab have gained increased attention, attracting a number of luxury yachts.

Some of Kvarner’s coastal towns include:

Some of Kvarner’s most notable islands are:

  • Krk – The Baška tablet, which dates back to the year 1100, was found here. This important historical relic contains the first recorded mention of ‘Croatia’ in the Croatian language
  • Rab – well known as “The happy island”
  • Cres – home to the beautiful Lubenice Beach
  • Mali and Veli Lošinj – a popular wellness destination known as the “Island of Vitality.” Also well known for its dolphin population
  • Susak – this sandy island has excellent beaches

North Dalmatia

Tranquil and remote, the barren lunar landscape and deserted bays of the Kornati islands appeal to nature lovers and experienced sailors.

Some of North Dalmatia’s coastal towns include:

  • Zadar – listen to the music of the sea with Zadar’s unique “Sea Organ,” a public artwork on the city’s waterfront with music created by 35 organ pipes whose sounds are dictated by the movement of the waves. Also home to UNESCO World Heritage listed defensive walls.
  • Šibenik – home to 2 UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Cathedral of St James and the St. Nicholas fortress.

Some of North Dalmatia’s most notable islands are:

  • Dugi Otok – home to stunning Saharun Beach
  • The Kornati Islands – home to a national park
  • Pag – home to the famed Pag cheese, Pag lace, and Pag Salt flats

Central Dalmatia

With an attractive mix of small, peaceful villages, bustling seaside cities, and secluded turquoise bays, the seas of Central Dalmatia have something to offer everyone. This is a popular area to explore for a first time visit to Croatia. Read more about a one-week round trip charter in Central Dalmatia here.

Some of Central Dalmatia’s coastal towns include:

  • Split
  • Trogir – the town’s historic center is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Omiš
  • Makarska

Some of Central Dalmatia’s most notable islands are:

  • Brač – home to famed Zlatni rat Beach, as well as the highest peak in the Adriatic, Vidova Gora, offering stunning views of the sea and neighboring islands.
  • Hvar
  • Vis – gained notoriety as the filming location of “Mamma Mia – Here We Go Again.” Stiniva Beach is a mist-see.
  • Šolta
  • Pakleni Islands – home to beautiful and serene bays such as Palmižana

South Dalmatia

Home to Dubrovnik, Croatia’s most famous city, Southern Dalmatia has much to offer visitors. The Pelješac Peninsula, which juts into the Adriatic just north of Dubrovnik, is well known for its wine and seafood, making this an attractive location for foodie.

Some of South Dalmatia’s coastal highlights include:

  • Dubrovnik
  • The Pelješac Peninsula – a well-known wine region. Don’t miss the town of Ston, famed for its fresh oysters, ancient salt flats, and expansive fortification wall. Also worth visiting is the town of Orebic, a lovely coastal retreat.

Some of South Dalmatia’s most notable islands are:

  • Korčula
  • Mljet – home to a national park
  • Lastovo
  • The Elaphiti Islands – an archipelago which consists of 13 larger and smaller islands, only 3 of which are inhabited: Kolocep, Lopud and Šipan. On Šipan, chic BOWA offers the finest in gourmet food and relaxation.

Where should I start my Croatia charter?

Croatia’s coast is lined with modern and well-equipped marinas serving as home port to a variety of yachts. Where to begin your charter depends on which region you plan to explore. For example, the charming town of Trogir, located just 30 miles north of Split, and only 10 minutes from Split international airport, is a popular starting point for exploring Central and South Dalmatia (heading south) and the Kornati Islands (heading north).

Other popular starting points for Croatian yacht charters are Split, Dubrovnik, Šibenik, Zadar, Biograd na Moru, and Pula.

Another factor to consider when choosing your sailing route is the opportunity to extend your stay and explore your arrival or departure city in greater depth. For this reason, we often recommend one-way itineraries, allowing our travelers to maximize their time on land before or after their charter. Our team of Croatia Specialists will not only organize your private yacht charter, but also your pre and post accommodation, guides, transfers, and activities. Consider giving yourself at least 2 nights before and after your charter to explore in greater depth.

Where will our boat stay overnight?

During the past decade Croatia has increased the available marinas to currently offer more than a thousand berths (slips) in around 60 marinas with high quality infrastructure.

In addition to securing the boat in a modern marina slip, many coastal towns offer smaller berths/ slips with easy access for exploring the destination.

Mooring – A popular option is to secure the vessel in a secluded, sheltered bay, anchored or moored on buoys. When boating along the Dalmatian Coast, many restaurants offer overnight mooring (often at no charge for guests who dine at the restaurant). The buoys are maintained and managed by the restaurants. It’s a cost efficient and peaceful alternative to overnighting in a marina.


Worry Free, Stress-Free – We take care of you

From the moment you land in Croatia, to the moment you return home, your team at Tasteful Croatian Journeys will be taking care of you, monitoring your progress, and ensuring a flawless, personalized experience.

Contact Us Now!

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