Croatia
Adriatic Island gems
Croatia
9 day itinerary
The crystal-clear turquoise waters, white beaches and enchanting terracotta towns of Croatia make this an ideal destination to explore by yacht. This 8-day sample itinerary takes in stunning islands and natural bays as well as the best beach clubs, restaurants and oceanfront party spots.
Bay of Kotor
UNESCO world heritage site
Start your charter in the old Mediterranean port of Kotor surrounded by fortifications built during the Venetian period. It has one of the best preserved medieval old towns in the Adriatic and is an UNESCO world heritage site. It is home to numerous sights, such as the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in the old town (built in 1166) and the ancient walls which stretch for 3 miles directly above the city. Porto Montenegro is a full-service marina with world-class gastronomy, elegant bars as well as an array of sports, leisure and cultural amenities.
Dubrovnik
PEARL OF THE ADRIATIC
Explore the old town of Dubrovnik - a UNESCO World Heritage site - with its palazzi and elegant baroque churches within medieval fortifications. Take the cable car up Mount Srdj for stunning views or visit the Modern Contemporary Art Museum, showcasing talented Croatian artists. Spend the afternoon at Banje Beach Club. Have dinner at Restaurant 360° situated within the city walls overlooking the pretty harbour. Finish the night in Revelin nightclub.
Mljet
national park
One of the larger Dalmatian islands, Mljet offers a chance to get away from civilisation altogether. Walk the green leafy trails or hike up the hills to take in the views of Mjlet coastline. Explore the National Park. Take kayaks or paddleboards to the two saltwater lakes – Vileko or Malo Jezelo. Visit the 12th century Benedictine Monastery on the small island of St Mary. Have dinner at anchor, enjoying the completely peaceful surroundings.
Korcula
PIRATE TALES
Depart Mljet for the island of Korcula, famous for 'grk' – a grape variety used to make a unique white wine found and served here. Anchor off the little town of Lumbarda and visit the Bire Winery for a tasting. Take the jetskis for a spin in the bay or try waterskiing. Move round to the medieval Korcula Town for the evening. Explore the walled town, with its rich history of pirates and well preserved gothic and renaissance buildings. Enjoy the pretty shops and the many bars and nightlife on offer.
Vis Island
magical grotto
Wake up off the tiny island of Bisevo and see the extraordinary Blue Grotto before the tour boats arrive. A natural phenomenon, the grotto is filled with a ghostly blue light when the sun hits the sea inside. Continue to Vis Island, with postcard beauty, ancient ruins and deserted beaches. Once a military naval base, Vis has remained unspoilt and caught in a charming timewarp. Anchor off Komiza for a full day of watersports. Move round to Vis Town for cocktails and dinner in the delightful Villa Kalliopa, set in the garden of a Garibaldi palace.
Hvar
SUNSHINE ISLAND
Hvar has the most hours of sunshine in Croatia: make the best of them at the island's luxury beach clubs and secluded coves. Take the tender to your favourite spot in the Pakleni Islands, where you can walk through lavender fields and pine forests. As night falls, the car-free town comes alive, earning its reputation as Croatia’s best party town. Start at the Hula Hula Beach Club, have dinner at Restaurant Divino and soak up the bands and parties lining the docks.
Brac
beaches & caves
Brac Island has many secluded coves to discover. Hike to the highest peak in the Adriatic, Vidova Gora, for a birds' eye view of the island. Cool off with a swim on stunning Zlatni Rat beach, or paddleboard through crystalline waters. Take in carvings of angels, animals and a gaping dragon, believed to have been sculpted by a 15th century friar, in the Dragon’s Cave. Creamy white marble found on Brac was used in the construction of the White House. Visit the pretty town of Bol for the evening.
Sibenik
waterfall wonder
Arrive in Sibenik and head onland to visit the stunning Krka Falls National Park, 10 km in from the coast. This is a magical place of waterfalls and gorges. Afterwards, return to town to explore the fashion-conscious Sibenik, with its wonderful scenery and thriving festival scene. Visit Deni’s design store to see the work of Danijel Hrg - look out for his sculptures throughout the town. Get goosebumps listening to klapa music (a form of capella singing) performed live. Have dinner at the innovative Pelegrini restaurant.
Zadar
culture day
Enjoy a lazy breakfast, taking in the last sights of Croatia before disembarking in Zadar. Explore its culture and extraordinary art, including intriguing light and sound installations before your onward flight, soaking up the last moments of an unforgettable yacht holiday.