Nestled at the crossroads of Central Europe and the Mediterranean, where past and present intertwine, Croatia embraces its reputation as one of the top luxury yacht charter destinations anywhere in the world. Croatia has grown in popularity over the last twenty years, and it is easy to see why: with more than 1500 km of meandering coastline, centuries-old architecture and expanses of sapphire-blue water cradling a collection of enchanting islands. A luxury charter yacht is undoubtedly the premium way to explore this Eastern Mediterranean paradise in style.
There are limitless possibilities for travel along the coast and further inland – but you won’t be disappointed if you include these five amazing locations on your itinerary.
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is an incredibly well-preserved example of a late-medieval walled city and visitors arriving by luxury yacht will be treated to exceptional views of the imposing city walls built into the towering rock face, against a backdrop of terra cotta roofs and lush pine forests.
A stroll through the cobbled streets will reveal the delights of the city known as ‘the pearl of the Adriatic’ from diverse architecture, museums and galleries, to top-end boutiques, chic restaurants, cafes and nightlife. The summer months bring the sights and sounds of the annual Dubrovnik Summer Festival – a celebration of the vibrant and varied culture, art and music of Croatia – hosted every year since 1950.
Split
Entering the harbour in Split will transport visitors back in time as the Diocletian Palace, with its four imposing gates, comes into view. The palace was built as a lavish estate for Emperor Diocletian during the 4th century and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979. More recently some visitors are drawn by the palace’s association with Game of Thrones, as it was used as a location in the TV series.
Riva is the seafront promenade and at the heart of the old town leading via the south gate directly into the basement of the Diocletian’s Palace. A walk along the palm-lined promenade will take you past pretty houses, cosy cafés and modern restaurants, all enjoying wonderful views of the boats coming and going in the harbour.
In the height of the summer, the city is brimming with life and sees the arrival of one of Europe’s largest music events – the Ultra Music Festival – where world-renowned DJs take to the stage and state-of-the-art light shows fill the sky.
Split is the gateway for cruising the nearby islands, but as you head away there is plenty of time to anchor off one of the city’s beautiful beaches for a cooling dip, before sailing into the sunset under the care of the experienced captain and crew.
Brac Island
Brac is the perfect antidote to the bustling cities of Dubrovnik and Split where it is best to embrace the slower pace, focus on relaxing in the stunning surroundings and enjoy the hospitality on board. Experienced local captains and crew will no doubt have their favourite beaches and coves around the island but will choose anchorages based on guests’ preferences. Not to be missed is the Golden Horn of Zlatni Rat, where the unique shape of the beach changes daily according to the tide and weather. Where better for a beach picnic and day spent snorkelling or playing on the water toys in the crystal-clear water? Croatia has plenty of underwater life worth exploring and you won’t need to go far from the beach or the yacht to see it. One side of the peninsula is more prone to wind, making it popular with surfers and water sports enthusiasts. The crew can assist guests with any activities on or offshore that take their fancy.
The little town of Bol is tucked between the beach and the forest and is overlooked by the mountain of Vidova Gora – a great hike which soars seven hundred metres above the sea, offering fabulous views. From yachts anchored just off the coast, the town’s harbour is a short tender ride away and is lined with café tables and sun umbrellas. The town offers numerous traditional restaurants serving tasty Dalmatian cuisine and is home to a famous old winery and wine cellar.
Hvar
When it’s time to get the party started, it’s time to take the yacht over to Hvar Town on the island of Hvar. This cosmopolitan town has gained a reputation for being an upmarket destination favoured by the rich and famous where superyachts line up on the harbour next to local fishing boats. Restaurants and bars are overflowing into the early hours when clubs like Hula Hula and Carpe Diem turn the music up and keep everyone dancing til dawn … and well into the next day at Carpe Diem Beach – a 10-minute boat ride away on the Paklinski Island of Marinkovac.
The Paklinski Islands are just as inviting during the day and are ideally explored by luxury charter yacht or the yacht’s tender which enable guests to hop around the islands taking in the breathtaking Mediterranean landscape. The archipelago has been described as ‘heaven on earth’ and is made up of a series of 14 islands and islets just off the coast of Hvar. The tranquil island of Jerolim is known for its pristine, unspoilt beaches – there is also a clothing-optional beach, so make sure you check with the crew before you disembark! Sveti Klemet is a favourite anchorage for yachts with the flower-filled village of Palmižana being home to a sandy beach lined with idyllic restaurants and laid-back beach bars.
Zadar
Croatia’s oldest city is a blend of architecture from history’s most impressive eras and within one square of the city alone, visitors will find ruins of an ancient Roman forum, the 9th century St Donatus Church, the Romanesque St Anastasia Cathedral and 11th century Benedictine monastery.
In stark contrast, the waterfront hosts two very modern art installations. The haunting sound of the Sea Organ comes from stone tubes set into the steps which release an unusual echoing sound generated by the motion of the waves. And you can’t leave until you’ve seen the Sun Salutation, a 22m circular installation which releases absorbed light from 10,000 solar panels as a fantastic light show after dark.
In comparison to many Mediterranean cities in the summer months, Zadar is quiet and crowd-free. For even more tranquillity and ‘back to nature’ experiences, Kornati National Park is only accessible by boat and offers the chance to see dolphins, lizards and nearly 70 species of butterfly.
As well as being the ultimate expression of luxury, a yacht charter vacation also offers guests the freedom to enjoy their holiday at their own pace, visiting as much as they can in the time or as little as possible to make the most of the onboard amenities and service.
Croatia is the perfect backdrop whatever style of charter or yacht you choose and will create memories that last a lifetime.
Trina Howes
Trina Howes is a Director of CharterWorld America. CharterWorld America is a luxury private yacht charter company that creates outstanding vacations with excellent yachts at amazing prices – worldwide. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
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