Croatia is known for its coastline, crystal clear waters and beautiful islands, making it the perfect destination for a skippered yacht charter. Planning an itinerary for a skippered charter can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and advice from your skipper, your sailing trip can become an unforgettable experience. In this article, we will explore the key steps to planning the perfect itinerary.
Choosing the Type of Vessel Depending on Your Budget and Group Size
When planning a skippered yacht charter in Croatia, choosing the right vessel is key to a comfortable and memorable experience. Different types of vessels offer different advantages, and your choice will depend on your budget, group size and desired level of luxury. Here is an overview of the main types of vessels you can choose from:
Sailing Boats
Sailing boats are ideal for sailing enthusiasts and adventurous souls. They offer an authentic experience at sea and are perfect for smaller groups of up to 6-8 people. They are usually the more affordable option, and prices depend on size and season:
Low season: from €1,200 to €8,500 per week.
High season: from €1,500 to €20,500 per week.
Catamarans
Catamarans are more spacious and stable than sailboats, making them a great choice for larger groups (8-12 people) or families with children. They offer more space for sunbathing and a more luxurious experience. Prices are slightly higher:
Low season: from €1,000 to €10,500 per week.
High season: from €4,500 to €100,000 per week.
Luxury Motor Yachts
If you are looking for ultimate luxury, fast sailing and state-of-the-art equipment, motor yachts are the right choice. They are ideal for a small to medium-sized group that wants top-notch service.
Low season: from €5,000 to €200,000 per week.
High season: from €20,000 to €500,000 (or more).
Gulets
Gulets are traditional wooden vessels that offer a combination of sailing and motorized sailing. With spacious decks and cabins, they are ideal for groups of 10-16 people who want a relaxed trip with a touch of elegance.
Low season: from €7,000 to €12,000 per week.
High season: from €20,000 to €40,000 per week.
Luxury Cruisers
For large groups and the highest standards of luxury, luxury cruisers offer an exclusive experience. They are suitable for private parties, family celebrations or business events.
Low season: from €20,000 to €50,000 per week.
High season: from €30,000 to €100,000 (or more).
Selection Tip
When choosing a boat, consider the number of people, budget and desired amenities. Your skipper and charter agency can help you find the perfect boat that will meet your needs and expectations.
1. Determine the Duration of Your Trip
The first step in planning your itinerary is to decide how many days you want to spend at sea. The most common options include:
Weekly charter (7 days): Ideal for exploring popular routes like Split to Dubrovnik, with visits to islands like Hvar, Vis and Korčula.
Longer sailings (7+ days): This allows you to explore the northern Adriatic, including the Kornati Islands and Istria.
The length of the trip will affect the number of destinations you can visit and the pace of your trip.
2. Choose a Home Port
Croatia has several main ports that are the starting points for most skippered yacht charters:
Split: The most popular port with many itineraries to the Central Dalmatian islands.
Dubrovnik: Great for exploring southern Dalmatia.
Zadar: Ideal for those who want to visit the Kornati Islands.
Pula: An excellent starting point for exploring Istria and the northern Adriatic.
The choice of port depends on your interests, time constraints and yacht availability.
3. Define Your Priorities
A skippered yacht charter offers flexibility, but it’s important to determine in advance what you want from your trip. Consider the following:
Beaches and swimming: Are you looking for hidden coves and sandy beaches? Visit Zlatni Rat on Brač or Stiniva on Vis.
Nightlife: If you like partying, don’t miss Hvar and its famous nightlife scene.
Culture and history: Towns like Trogir, Korčula and Dubrovnik offer a rich history and architecture.
Natural attractions: Visit the Kornati National Park, the Lastovo Islands or the Krka Waterfalls.
Your skipper can tailor the itinerary to your interests and suggest additional destinations.
4. Consult with the Skipper
One of the main advantages of a skippered charter is the skipper’s expertise and local knowledge. When planning your itinerary:
- Share your wishes and expectations with him.
- Let him suggest routes that suit your interests and weather conditions.
- Be open to adjustments as weather conditions or marina crowds may require a change of plans.
The skipper will also help organize anchoring, docking at marinas and avoiding crowded places.
5. Choose the Ideal Route
Popular routes for skippered charters in Croatia
1. Split - Brač - Hvar - Vis - Trogir (7 days):
- Perfect for discovering central Dalmatia. Combines beaches, historic towns and a relaxed atmosphere.
2. Dubrovnik - Korčula - Mljet - Lastovo - Elaphiti Islands (7 days):
- A route that offers untouched islands, natural beauty and rich history.
3. Zadar - Kornati - Dugi Otok - Šibenik (7 days):
- Ideal for lovers of nature and silence, with an emphasis on the Kornati National Park.
4. Istria (Pula - Rovinj - Brijuni - Cres - Krk, 7 days):
- A route with an emphasis on historic towns, gastronomy and natural parks such as Brijuni.
Day Trips
If you have less time, consider a day trip itinerary, such as Split to Šolta and back or a tour of the Elaphiti Islands from Dubrovnik.
6. Include Activity Breaks
Sailing isn’t just about sailing – include additional activities for an unforgettable experience:
Diving and snorkeling: Experience the crystal-clear waters around Vis and Lastovo.
Land exploration: Visit historic towns, local restaurants and markets.
Walking and cycling: Explore the hiking trails on Mljet or the cycling routes on Brač.
Talk to your skipper about activity options in the regions you’re visiting.
7. Prepare for Flexibility
One of the challenges of sailing is unpredictable weather conditions. As you plan your itinerary, be prepared for changes:
- Wind or storms can affect the route.
- Your skipper will suggest safe alternatives.
- Enjoy spontaneity – some of the best moments come unexpectedly.
8. What to Bring on a Skippered Yacht Charter
For a successful sailing trip, prepare yourself with the following:
Documents: Passport, visa (if required), travel insurance.
Clothing: Summer clothes, swimwear, but also a light jacket for evenings.
Footwear: Soft shoes or sandals for yachts.
Food and drinks: Most skippered charters offer a catering option, but you can bring your favorites.
Sun protection: Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Flexibility and Skipper Recommendations
One of the advantages of a skippered charter is the flexibility of the itinerary. Your skipper knows the local weather conditions, the best routes and hidden spots that are not on standard tourist maps. Although you can agree on a rough plan in advance, it is often useful to leave room for adjustments. For example, if the weather conditions change, the skipper will recommend safer options or quieter bays. The skipper can also suggest less crowded marinas, local restaurants and activities, making your sailing experience even more enjoyable and personalized.
Planning an itinerary for a skippered yacht charter in Croatia can be an exciting experience, especially with the help of an experienced skipper. Focus on your interests, explore different destinations and be open to adjustments. Croatia offers endless opportunities to explore, from picturesque cities to pristine bays. With the right itinerary, your sailing will be an experience you will remember for a lifetime.
Book your skippered charter today and embark on an adventure in the Adriatic!