CROATIA

Croatia has one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe — 1,700 kilometers of Adriatic shoreline, hundreds of islands, and a string of medieval walled towns that look largely unchanged from the Middle Ages. It’s also one of the fastest-growing luxury travel destinations in Europe, with a sailing and charter scene that now rivals the Greek islands and the South of France for quality and variety.

Our Croatia coverage is built around firsthand experience on the water. No charter company paid to be featured, and no recommendation is sponsored.

Where we cover in Croatia:

The Dalmatian Coast: Split to Dubrovnik — The definitive Croatian sailing route, and one of the great sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean. Split is a remarkable city in its own right — a living Roman palace that functions as a modern city center — and makes an excellent base or starting point. From there, the route south takes you through the islands of Brač, Hvar, Korčula, and Mljet before arriving at Dubrovnik, the walled city on the southern Adriatic that remains one of the most visually stunning destinations in Europe. Read our full sailing guide from Split to Dubrovnik for how to book a charter, which islands to prioritize, and where to anchor and eat along the way.

Why sail Croatia? The sailing infrastructure on the Dalmatian Coast is exceptional — well-organized marinas, reliable winds from the Maestral in summer, and islands spaced close enough together that you can cover real ground without long passages. It’s accessible to first-time charterers and experienced sailors alike. July and August are peak season and very busy on the water; late May through June and September are the sweet spots — warmer than the shoulder seasons in Greece, less crowded than high summer, and with the clearest water of the year.

More Croatia coming soon. We’re expanding our Croatia coverage to include Hvar, Dubrovnik as a base, and the best boutique hotels on the coast. Sign up for updates below.

Best time to visit Croatia: June and September are the best months — warm enough to swim, uncrowded compared to the peak of summer, and with the best light for the coastline. July and August are peak season: beautiful but extremely busy, especially in Dubrovnik and Hvar. Water temperatures are warmest in August and September.