With a stunning coastline over 1,000 miles long and over a 1,000 islands and islets, you would need a lifetime to explore the countless gems of the Croatia’s Adriatic and Dalmatian Coasts and the Istrian Peninsula, but it won’t take more than moment to fall in love with this country. One great way to get to know Croatia however is a meticulously planned two-week sailing trip that will give you an ample glimpse of some of the major highlights and the natural beauty of this remarkable country.
Getting there
During the peak season, most European countries have direct connections to Croatia. If you are arriving from outside of Europe, the best way is to fly into Western European countries and take an onward flight to Split or Dubrovnik.
2 Week Croatia Cruising Itinerary
#Day One: Dubrovnik
The beautiful medieval city of Dubrovnik with its distinctive terracotta rooftops and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea is a must-see destination for any visitor to Croatia. Walk the limestone streets of the Old Town or tour the magnificent city walls before taking a cable car to Srd Hill to enjoy spectacular views of the jewel of the Adriatic.
#Day Two: Dubrovnik to Slano
A short and leisurely two-and-a-half-hour cruise will bring you to the sheltered marina at Slano, one of the most picturesque spots on the Dubrovnik Riviera, sitting along a beautiful bay surrounded by pines and olive groves. Visit Lopud Island just off the coast and snorkel and swim in its warm waters before heading for a wine tasting tour where you try out some of Croatia’s best wines.
#Day three: Slano to Okuklje
Cruise along the Adriatic coast for one-and-a-half-hours toward the magical forested island of Mljet, a favourite place for yachts to anchor, and dock at the bay in the village of Okuklje facing the Croatian mainland where you can enjoy swimming in the shallow waters or chill on the beach with your fellow charter guests.
#Day four: Okuklje to Polace
Polace Harbour is the entry point of the world famous Mljet National Park, and takes three hours to reach, hugging the length of Mljet island from Okuklje. The park borders the coast and two stunning saltwater lakes where you can take a boat to a former Benedictine monastery turned café on an islet in the middle of one of the lakes. Don’t forget to take time out to sample the renowned Plavac Mali red wine.
#Day Five: Polace to Lumbarda
Sail straight from Polace to the fishing village of Lumbarda, a small fishing village on the island of Korcula, just off the mainland coast, a good three hours by a gentle cruise. The speciality here is the Grk Bijeli dry white wine, so taste some before heading to any of the excellent beaches on the island.
#Day Six: Lumbarda to Skrivena
Four hours of some spectacular open water sailing will take you to the island of Lastovo and the hidden marina of Skrivena. This is the most westerly island on the Dalmatian Coast and a haven for nature lovers due to the extensive bird and marine life found here.
#Day seven: Skrivena to Vela Luka
The next leg of your memorable maritime voyage will bring you to Vela Luka, on the western side of the island of Korcula, after about four hours of sailing. This place is home to some excellent art galleries and museums, which provide a wonderful insight into the culture of Croatia.
#Day eight: Free day
Set your own schedule on the first free day of the trip. In case you need assistance on where to go, alone or with your charter friends, the crew will gladly help to make the most of your free time.
#Day nine: Free day
On your second free sailing day, you can opt to go island hopping to either Vis or the islands of Brac, home of the world famous Zlatni Rat beach; the party island of Hvar; and rugged and beautiful Solta further down the coast. These days are yours to do what you please, so make the most of them.
#Day ten: Vela Luka to Loviste
Your Croatian cruise recommences on the Peljesac Peninsula at Loviste, a top water sports destination. If you are looking for a land excursion, there are some excellent restaurants in Loviste where you can enjoy fine local cuisine.
#Day eleven: Loviste to Korcula
Your next stop is the old town of Korcula, a medieval walled city with Venetian architecture that juts right out into the water. Lined with palaces and churches, this is another major wine producing region
#Day twelve: Korcula to Pomena
Back on Mljet, since you have already visited the National Parks, enjoy quality time on the beaches of Pomena, a quaint fishing village on the west coast of the island where you will also find beautiful hiking trails.
#Day thirteen: Pomena to Sudurad
Sail past Mljet to Sipan, the largest island in the Dubrovnik Elafit archipelago, and to the town of Sudurad on its east coast where grapes. citrus fruits and figs are grown in abundance. The village is dominated by a 16th– century castle that was built by a wealthy Dubrovnik family.
#Day fourteen: Sudurad to Dubrovnik
A short cruise from Sudurad brings you back to your starting base of Dubrovnik. Spend the remaining time exploring some more delights of this UNESCO listed city before heading home.
Countless options for cruising in Croatia
With one of the longest coastlines along the Mediterranean, Croatia offers endless cruise options and the above itinerary is just one of many with literally hundreds of stunning locations to visit. So charter a boat, hop on a cruise, get sailing and explore beautiful Croatia.
