Winding down along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast through bays and inlets, along rocky shores and around countless islands offers a feast for the eyes and the palate. Croatia has more than 1,000 miles of coastline and 1,200-plus islands, the largest archipelago in the Adriatic. About 50 of the islands have populations that make for some of the most historic, interesting and picturesque ports of call in the world.
Jumping off from Split, the largest city on the Dalmatian Coast, it’s usually a comfortable run out to the islands of Brac, Hvar and Vis, with their typical calm seas and mild temperatures. The beautiful ports have historic stone structures and red tile roofs that create a colorful, welcoming waterfront scene. Med-style docking, stern to the stone cay, is common in many ports for vessels up to 100 feet and longer. Larger islands offer several ports, each with its own vibe.
The water is every bit as clear, blue and delicious as the Caribbean. You can enjoy a swim off the yacht in a secluded cove in the afternoon and then head out to an island vineyard for a world-class wine tasting experience. The weather is stunning: light breezes with abundant sun during the day, and a pleasant cooling off in the evening. From a quiet night at anchor in the sheltered cove at Pakleni Island, you can stroll the peaceful waterfront in historic Stari Grad, or enjoy a lively bar with good music and an enthusiastic clientele in Hvar. Fall asleep on deck under the stars, or dance that night away.
If variety is the spice of life, then cruising Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is a feast.
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE, GLOBAL REACH
The experience aboard the 122-foot (37-meter) Navilux and 160-foot (49-meter) Acapella was superb in every way. Charter providers Otium Yachts in Croatia, and CharterWorld, an international firm, both have strong reputations for customer service, extensive knowledge of the region and strong relationships with Croatian yacht owners.
For more information: otiumyachts.com, charterworld.com
Working boats anchor along the seawall in the village of Vis.
A fish pond at the center of the fortress home designed and built in the 15th century by poet Petar Hektorovic in his hometown of Stari Grad, Hvar. One of the fathers of Croatian literature, his poems celebrate the lives of local fishermen.
This article was originally published in the Winter 2022 issue.
