The ultimate insider guide to yachting holidays in Croatia

Croatia is now firmly on the map as a desirable cruising ground for yacht charter, and for very good reason. The entire Dalmatian region is stunningly beautiful, and exploring this attractive area on a yacht is especially appropriate given that much of its 3,600 miles of coastline comprises islands and hidden coves only accessible from the water.

With more than 1,400 islands, beautiful beaches and pristine nature, the entire region was seemingly made for the waterborne. Add to this the interesting historical sites waiting to be explored ashore and you have the perfect combination for a compelling yacht charter.

From islands to port towns, charming fishing villages to century-old cities, a yacht holiday in Croatia has a little something for everyone.

Hvar 

Known as the party island, Hvar has long drawn a young vibrant crowd keen to visit beach clubs like Carpe Diem, which tenders guests to its exclusive club on a neighbouring private island. But as home to the Zinfandel grape, a red wine beloved by Americans, it’s the litany of hand-production high-end vineyards scattered across the island that lights the way for many.

Ports like Hvar are ringed with restaurants and bars, but make sure to stop off for a tasting in Tomic winery’s cellar, modelled after ancient Roman dining rooms.

Split

Taking root from a flourishing ancient Roman town, Split grew up around the vast site of a waterfront residence completed by the Roman emperor in AD305, known as Diocletian’s Palace. Regarded as one of the world’s best-preserved ancient palaces today, this architectural and historical gem is one of the best reminders of the strong influence of the ancient Roman civilisation on the culture of Croatia.

Today, the towers, fortifications, vaults and slave quarters have been turned into a warren of boutiques, restaurants and cafes, and the hubbub within the walls of the palace is like a trip back in time. Split is a great place to start your yacht charter, giving you an introduction to the history and culture of Croatia with islands like Vis and Hvar close by for island hopping.

Korčula

The medieval walled city of Korčula was designed by the Venetians to protect it from the wind and sun. Climb the cathedral in Korčula old town to enjoy panoramic vistas of the cobbled streets below peppered with cream-coloured stone churches. Croatia boasts more than 400 varieties of edible sea creatures in its waters, and the town’s line of waterside eateries are a great place to sample many of them.

On a Korčula yacht charter, dine on sea bass ceviche and breaded cuttlefish at Michelin-starred Filippi, accompanied by stunning views of the Pelješac channel. Alternatively, fellow Michelin-starred eatery LD Restaurant offers wagyu scallops, prawn gyoza and red snapper sashimi al fresco in Korčula old town.

Mljet

Mljet National Park, defined by its two interconnecting saltwater lakes, lies in the far south of Dalmatia. Spend your days on snorkelling safaris swimming the great lakes, bays and coral reefs or take a tender ashore to explore the forested islands.

On a Mljet yacht charter, head ashore to explore via hiking or cycling, with wildlife-rich landscape harbours caves and beaches ripe for exploring. When you’ve worked up an appetite, dine on the area’s famed olives, goat’s cheese and fish, accompanied by a chilled glass of Croatian wine.

Šibenik

Throughout Croatia, Roman, Venetian and Austrian influences are witnessed in the country’s architecture and cuisine, but nowhere is that more evident than at St Nicholas' Fortress, which guards the entrance channel to Šibenik.

Considered one of must-see things to do in Šibenik, it stands on guard to all who enter by boat. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the defence built between the 15th and 17th centuries is a Venetian work of art.

Kornati Islands

More than 140 islands and islets comprise the Kornati archipelago, 89 of which form the Kornati National Park. Scattered with coves, olive groves and orchards, the uninhabited islands create a mesmeric yachting itinerary. Sailing the Kornati islands invites a Robinson Crusoe-style experience, where camping out under the stars or hopping from island to island reignites a thrilling sense of escapism.

Also known as the Stomorski islands and located in the northern part of Dalmatia, the Kornatis are the largest and densest archipelago in the Adriatic, boasting islands and reefs that cover 300sqkm and a wide selection of migratory birds.

Wine regions

Croatia’s winemaking heritage stretches back more than 4,000 years, shaped by ancient Greek settlers, Roman viticulture and centuries of coastal cultivation. Today the country is known for over 120 indigenous grape varieties and four key regions: Dalmatia for bold reds, Istria and Kvarner for crisp Malvazija, Slavonia for Graševina, and the Uplands for cool‑climate whites.

For wine lovers, a Croatia yacht charter is an effortless way to explore these coastal vineyards directly from the water. In Dalmatia, the Pelješac Peninsula is the home of Plavac Mali, where anchorages like Trstenik Bay place you close to notable wineries such as Grgich Hills and Korta Katarina. Hvar offers aromatic whites like Bogdanuša and boutique cellars, while Korčula is known for distinctive whites like Grk and Pošip and quieter Vis offers intimate tastings of island varieties like Vugava.