For the last three decades, Croatia has been known as a destination that offers boaters with outstanding infrastructure. On the coast, there are over 60 marinas, as well as the so-called seasonal marinas of the remote islands and docks in coves, which all include facilities for sailors. You can find shelter in a safe harbour almost anywhere along the coast and easily hire a fitting vessel if you do not have your own – with a crew also included.
Land ahoy in Istria
Istria is known for its picturesque towns and the numerous wine and olive oil roads. The region has many landing stages, such as Kanegra in the north, Cape Kamenjak located south of the west coast, or the beautiful cove of Tunarica and cliffs of Brseč in the east.
Rovinj is the perfect place to start your nautical trip. The Rovinj ACI marina is fully protected from the wind by the little island of Sveta Katarina. From this charming town and its mediaeval architecture, you can visit Brijuni archipelago, which is the only national park in Istria and is just twelve nautical miles away from Rovinj.
Visit the historical sites of Pula
While you are there, Pula it is definitely worth a visit. The region has excellently preserved ancient Roman buildings, including one of the most famous first century amphitheatre, Arena, which is the sixth largest in the world. It is one of the best-preserved amphitheatres from Antiquity and today it is used during the summer for film festivals and various cultural events.
Ready about in Kvarner
From Istria you can easily reach the region of Kvarner. From Opatija in the north to Karlobag in the south there are excellent marinas on the coast and surrounding islands. One of the most beautiful islands there is Krk, especially the south, which is full of life and vegetation.
Cres & Rab Islands
A powerful northerly wind leaves the north of Krk and some other islands in this region almost deserted, although it’s ideal for windsurfers who greatly enjoy it. From the south coast of Krk boat lovers can easily sail to Rab, visiting its mediaeval town, or along to Cres, which offers a peaceful and quiet area to spend time in nature.
Next stop: Lošinj
The next stop is Lošinj with its harbour Mali Lošinj. The region has beautiful coves to swim in and visitors can even get a glimpse at the dolphins which swim nearby.
Looking for an adventure? An unusual nautical route is the one to two islands, Grgur and Goli Otok, which for a long time served as prisons.
Eno-gastronomic offering
The Kvarner region is famous for its specific eno-gastronomic offering. While visiting this part of Croatia you shouldn’t miss the taste of the famous Žlahtina wine from Vrbnik and the well-known Kvarner scampi.
Full speed ahead to Dalmatia (Split)
A highlight of the Croatian Adriatic is the region around Split. You can sail between the islands of Drvenik Veli and Mali, Šolta, Brač, Hvar, Šćedro, Vis and Biševo. Every island has its own characteristics, like their innate, linguistic, oenological and cultural aspects. This Central Dalmatian archipelago is the centre of entertainment and quality cuisine providing boaters with beautiful docks.
The city Split has a rich choice of cultural activities and busy nightlife whilst also providing visitors with a historic centre with the palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, which was declared a world heritage by UNESCO, as it is a significant monument of Late Antiquity architecture.
The sunny island of Hvar
A “must visit” is the sunny island of Hvar. The beautiful harbour is the centre of its nautical events, however, there are also other mooring sites in front of Hvar and an ACI marina on the island of Sv. Klement. The nightlife there is for everyone.
Island of Vis
On the Island of Vis you’ll find caves such as Medviđa Špilja and Stiniva Cove, while nearby you will find Modra Špilja (Blue Grotto) on the island of Biševo and Zelena Špilja (Green Grotto) on Ravnik island, which have turquoise water and a rich history to offer.
