05.02.2018.
Are you looking how to book the best Croatian sailing holiday, but feeling overwhelmed by the plenty of confusing offers and choices for yacht charter? We can help you choose the right boat and crew to make sure that you have the best Croatian sailing holiday under the sun. Read these 10 proven methods and start looking for your ideal yacht!
Are you looking how to book the best Croatian sailing holiday, but feeling overwhelmed by the plenty of confusing offers and choices for yacht charter? We can help you choose the right boat and crew to make sure that you have the best Croatian sailing holiday under the sun. Read these 10 proven methods and start looking for your ideal yacht!
1. Choose the right yacht for the best Croatian sailing holiday
What is the best choice for you and your crew? Is it a monohull sailboat, or a motor yacht that comes to your mind when you think about the Croatian sailing vacation? Meet the difference between these yachts and which one is more suited for Croatian sailing holiday you are seeking for. Learn about monohull sailboats and why people charter this style of yacht for the classic feel of sailing and the history and tradition they represent.
Maybe a motor yacht is your better preference? Take a look at the different types of motor boats and find out what makes them different before booking your holiday.
2. Identify your group type
Are you a family with young kids, a group of couple of friends, team or honeymooners? Some yacht charters are ideally suited for kids while others have a more adult vibe. However, make sure everyone is compatible with your preferences and that all trip expectations are aligned. Are you more for enthusiastic sailing and feeling the wind and waves or for spending more time snorkeling and soaking up the sun? If you haven’t sailed together before, don’t forget discussing things like sharing the cost of food and fuel. Who will be the main responsible person for the boat and crew; who will be in charge for keeping the boat tidy during your trip; who will prepare food etc.
3. Decide WHEN is the best time to start your sailing holiday in Croatia
Spring break, hot summer or relaxing autumn? When is the best time for your Croatian sailing holiday? It entirely depends on you and your crew! July and August are the most crowded months for sailing in Croatia, and are considered as “high season.” Spring break here can be really nice, with warm weather, lots of wind and beautiful, clear and warm weather, AND, if you decide to book before June 1st, you will still catch much cheaper “pre-season” prices. Autumn sailing can be a real treat for your soul and body. Temperatures are more comfortable, sea is still warm for swimming, there is more than enough wind for great sailing experience and voila; prices are again lower than in the high season.
4. Calculate your best Croatian sailing holiday budget
Yacht charter prices are based on one week (mostly Saturday - Saturday). If you are chartering for less or more than 7 days, the rate will be pro-rated. So, the final calculation can be higher and cheaper than those posted on our website which are calculated for 7 days charters. You can find many yachts at special deals at certain time of the year, so make sure and feel free to check for any special discounts offered on the boats you are considering. There are many ways to find the best Croatian sailing vacation that doesn’t break the bank. Just feel free to ask!
5. Provisioning
During your sailing holiday good food plan is a must. While planning your meal(s), few considerations should be made. First, how many people will be on the vessel? Does anyone have food allergies? Which items will keep their freshness best onboard? Who will be in charge for cooking on a boat, or purchasing food at local markets and in stores? As the space on the yacht is much smaller and more compact than the one at home, you should be crafty and clever when purchasing. You should also take in consider the refrigerator because if you are not connected to the shore power you have limited energy supply on the boat only while the motor is running. So, plan as much as you can to find out which groceries are best for this purpose to bring from home.
6. Good packing list
Another important topic in preparing for yacht charter holiday is your luggage and packing. There is just one rule – LESS IS MORE. For a week charter you should try and fit everything into a soft sided duffle bags. You will spend your time in shorts, t-shirts and bathing suits so don’t overdo the wardrobe. Be careful, nights on the sea can be also chilly and windy so take some long sleeves wardrobe and windproof jackets with you. Suggestion: leave all your good jewelry at home so you don't lose it in the sea.
Your charter company will supply most of the items you require but here are few extra useful items you should consider: medications & toiletries, sun cream, sportswear with SPF protection, polarized sunglasses, hats, camera and batteries with extra battery chargers, bug spray/ mosquito repellent, a dry-sack for taking items ashore, books, baby/wet wipes, LED lamp for reading, games, your favorite spices in plastic bags or containers and personal water bottles. Snorkel gear is supplied by many companies but if you have special needs, consider bringing your own mask, snorkel and fins.
7. Make a perfect itinerary for your best Croatian sailing holiday
Become familiar with the area and weather. One of the funniest, but most intimidating parts of your sailing holiday might be deciding for your itinerary. We recommend planning one (check our route suggestions), with lots of room for changes, even better to plan it with someone who’s been in Croatia before. Be prepared to modify it as things come up along the way. You might be having a lot of fun in one place and decide to stay there longer or your crew might be seasick and not be up for a long sail according the plan and program. Flexibility and lots of options are keys of success!
8. Nature & historical sites
Another benefit of great Croatian sailing holiday is that you’ll get to visit many interesting towns and places, especially islands you wouldn’t normally visit if you plan a trip on land; like Hvar, Mljet, Vis, Korčula, Kornati, Dugi otok, or towns like Zadar, Split, Šibenik or Dubrovnik, which are famous Croatian historic and culture heritage. Unfortunately, you will not have time to visit them all at once, but check the most interesting ones in your planned sailing route.
9. Restaurants / local food
Ever heard of Croatian traditional food? Diversity is what makes the cuisine of Croatia so special. As you’re on a sailing holiday you’ll be tasting coastal Croatian food. And there is no better way to get to know new country like tasting the best of their local cuisine. Some dishes like ‘Gradele’, ‘Brudet’, ‘Peka’, ‘Pašticada’ or ‘Viška pogača’ you shouldn’t miss. Explore small local ‘konobas’ along the coast and islands where you will eat like a king. Do not miss famous Croatian white and red wines like ‘Pošip’, ‘Plavac Mali’, ‘Dingač’, ‘Graševina’, ‘Teran’ and many more.
10. Activities for a great Croatian sailing holiday
Apart from chilling out, soaking the sun and swimming, there are many things to do during your great Sailing holiday in Croatia. You can also kayak, SUP, or even try a little more adventure and go windsurfing, kitesurfing, rafting on the Cetina river when you are near Omiš town. You can hike to the Adriatic’s highest peak on the island of Brač, where Mount St. Vid reaches 780 m with great views across the archipelago. Possibilities are numerous, pick your favourite.
11. Have fun!
The last but also the basic rule - HAVE FUN! Have fun all the time. With great weather conditions, great crew and beautiful scenery you will definitely enjoy your great Croatian holiday!
