Everything You Need to Know About Sailing Tours in Croatia

Have you ever dreamed of a sailing tour in Croatia, but weren’t quite sure where to start? Perhaps you’ve been captivated by photos of sailboats gliding across the Adriatic, where turquoise waters sparkle and hidden coves stretch toward an endless horizon of islands. If so, a a private sailing tour in Croatia might just be your next perfect escape! Fully private, chartered sailing tours have surged in popularity—and it’s easy to see why. Imagine having an entire sailboat reserved just for your group, guided by your own dedicated skipper who brings the hidden magic of the Adriatic to life. It’s the ultimate blend of freedom, comfort, and discovery on the open sea.

Why are Sailing Tours in Croatia so Popular?

The Adriatic coastline is dotted with over a thousand islands—many unspoiled and only accessible by boat—creating endless opportunities for exploring secluded bays, crystal-clear swimming spots, and charming port towns. Now imagine discovering all of this with your own personal skipper and guide—someone who knows each island’s hidden gems and secret corners, and who invites you to experience the magic of Croatia through the lens of local expertise. Best of all, no sailing experience is required, making sailing tours in Croatia effortless, safe, and irresistibly inviting for anyone with a love of adventure on the water.

Beyond the practicalities, Croatia stands unmatched in its ability to combine breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and warm, world-class hospitality into the ultimate travel experience.

Why Do Travellers Love Sailing Tours in Croatia?

There are so many things to love about a sailing tour in Croatia. Let’s dig into the top reasons we hear from our guests.

Private Sailing Tours in Croatia are a Bucket List Experience

Sometimes, the trip of a lifetime is best shared with the people you love. With 10Adventures, every sailing tour in Croatia is a fully private charter, giving you and your group exclusive use of the vessel—no crowds, no compromises, just unforgettable moments on the open sea together. Private groups typically range from 2-8 guests, often taking the form of couples, friends and extended families.

Private Sailing Tours in Croatia are Customizable

While sample itineraries such as the 3-day, 5-day and 7-day itineraries on 10Adventures can spark inspiration, your ultimate journey is entirely in your hands, guided by your expert skipper. On day one, you’ll meet to map out the days ahead, tailoring every detail to your group’s desires. Whether you crave the excitement of Croatia’s iconic hotspots or the serenity of hidden island gems, your personal skipper will craft an itinerary that makes your adventure uniquely unforgettable.

Sailing in Croatia offers the Best of Land and Sea

A sailing tour in Croatia offers the perfect balance: savoring the enchanting beauty of the Adriatic from the water, while also exploring the charm and character of the Dalmatian islands up close on foot. It’s this seamless blend of waterborne adventure and on-land exploration that makes sailing through Croatia truly unforgettable.

No Experience Needed on a Croatian Sailing Tour

Unlike many adventures that demand prior experience or special credentials, sailing tours in Croatia are remarkably accessible. No sailing experience is needed, and with a professional skipper at the helm, guests can relax, feel safe, and fully enjoy the journey.

Sailing in Croatia is a Great Add-On Tour

Many travelers choose to complement their broader European itinerary with a sailing adventure in Croatia. With most trips beginning and ending in Split—a city well-connected by flights from major European hubs—adding a 3- or 4-day sailing excursion is the perfect way to elevate and complete an unforgettable Euro trip.

What is a Sailing Tour in Croatia Like?

Most sailing tours in Croatia begin and end in Split, giving you the perfect chance to immerse yourself in this enchanting city before or after your voyage, exploring its historic streets, vibrant markets, and lively waterfront at your own pace.

You’ll typically embark mid morning at the scheduled marina where you’ll meet your private skipper and hop onboard your own private vessel. You’ll get to know your skipper and the boat before sitting down to design a plan for the days ahead, taking into account your personal wishes for the tour, weather conditions and seasonality.

Once you set sail, the Adriatic becomes your playground. With an average of about four hours of sailing each day, there’s plenty of time to soak up the sun, dive into crystal-clear waters for a swim or snorkel in hidden coves, and marvel at the emerald-green, forested islands dotting the horizon. As you glide toward iconic destinations like Hvar and Brač, the adventure continues on land—savoring exquisite local cuisine, exploring charming towns, and experiencing the vibrant nightlife that the Dalmatian Islands are famous for.

Each night, you’ll retreat to your private double cabin, drifting off to the gentle lull of the waves and dreaming of the adventures that await with the sunrise.

Following your tour, you typically disembark on the final day in the early evening, where you can then spend another night in Split, or continue with onward travels.

Croatian Sailing Tour Itineraries

3-Day Sailing Croatia Itinerary

The 3-Day Sailing Adventure in Croatia Tour is a short but sweet 3-day / 2-night sail from Split which begins with a serene cruise to Brac Island, where you can dive into hidden coves and watch a breathtaking sunset over the sea. On day two, guests sail to the lively and glamorous island of Hvar, arriving by water for a one-of-a-kind perspective before immersing in its renowned nightlife. The final day winds through the enchanting Pakleni Islands, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and explore picturesque beaches and marinas, before returning to Split with unforgettable memories.

This itinerary is perfect for those who are short on time, but interested in exploring some of the top highlights of the Dalmatian Islands from the perspective of the water.

5-Day Sailing Croatia Itinerary

The 5-Day Sailing Adventure in Croatia Tour sets sail from Split, starting with the charming town of Primosten, where sun-soaked beaches, hidden coves, and gourmet Croatian cuisine set the tone for relaxation. Cruise onward to Skradin and explore the stunning Krka National Park, with its cascading waterfalls and the picturesque Franciscan Monastery on Visovac Lake. Experience the rugged beauty of the mostly uninhabited Kornati Islands, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and anchoring in secluded coves, before visiting the tranquil, car-free Kaprije Island for a taste of authentic Mediterranean life. Finally, discover the tropical-like blue lagoon at Veli Drvenik Island, soaking in the turquoise waters and pristine sands, before returning to Split.

For an unforgettable journey, this option combines extended time afloat with discoveries beyond the usual hotspots, revealing the area’s hidden treasures

7-Day Sailing Croatia Itinerary

The 7-day Sailing from Split to Dubrovnik Tour sets out from Split, exploring the stunning Dalmatian Islands in style. Start with the vibrant Hvar, soaking in Venetian architecture and sunsets from your boat, then discover Vis Island’s hidden coves, white-sand beaches, and rich history. Sail through the remote beauty of Lastovo Nature Park, wander medieval Korčula town, and marvel at the crystal-clear waters of Mljet National Park. Cruise the picturesque Elafiti Islands before ending your journey in Dubrovnik, having experienced a perfect blend of sun-soaked beaches, turquoise waters, charming towns, and unforgettable Adriatic vistas.

What Types of Vessels Are Available for Sailing Tours in Croatia?

Selecting the perfect vessel for your group is key! Whether you choose a sleek sailboat or a spacious catamaran, each option is designed to cater to the unique needs of couples, families, and small groups, ensuring comfort, style, safety and of course, fun! You can also tailor your experience with a range of standard or premium options, from adding a hostess to prepare light meals onboard, to outfitting your vessel with extras like stand-up paddleboards and e-bikes for even more adventure.

Here’s a glimpse at some of the most sought-after vessels for private charter sails.

Salona 42

The Salona 42 is a top choice for a sailing tour in Croatia, offering sleek design, award-winning performance, and smooth, responsive handling for an unforgettable Adriatic experience. Measuring 12.8 meters with two comfortable double cabins and two bathrooms, it’s perfectly suited for couples or small groups of up to four guests. With the freedom to stock your own provisions before departing Split, you can tailor your meals and onboard lifestyle to match your dream sailing escape.

Click Here for a Video Tour of the Salona 42.

Elan 50

The Elan 50 is a luxurious 15-meter cruising yacht designed for stylish, comfortable adventures on the Adriatic, accommodating up to six guests in three spacious cabins with modern private heads and showers. It boasts the largest cockpit in its class—featuring U-shaped seating, a forward sundeck, a touch-activated swim platform, and a cockpit bar with fridge—paired with a bright, innovative Deck Saloon interior with a full galley and amenities like WiFi and USB ports. Ideal for travelers seeking premium comfort, it also offers an optional half-board service with breakfast and light lunch prepared daily by an onboard hostess, ensuring a truly effortless and relaxing sailing experience.

Click Here for a Video Tour of the Elan 50.

Lagoon 570

The 57-foot catamaran MALA offers the ultimate luxury sailing experience on the Adriatic, accommodating up to six guests in three elegant double ensuite cabins. Fully self-sufficient with AC, a watermaker, generator, and full galley, it allows complete independence, while onboard amenities—including a BBQ, open-air cinema, watersports gear, and snorkeling equipment—ensure endless entertainment. With WiFi, USB ports, and modern entertainment systems, plus freshly prepared local cuisine, MALA perfectly blends adventure, relaxation, and unparalleled comfort, making it ideal for small groups or families seeking a once-in-a-lifetime sailing escape.

How much Does it Cost to Book a Private Sailing Tour in Croatia?

Many travellers assume a private sailing charter is beyond their budget, but the reality is far more attainable than expected in many cases. Private charter sailing trips in Croatia can be quite affordable, particularly for groups of 4+ where the charter costs are split between multiple guests. You can also keep expenses down by travelling in the shoulder season (May–June or September–October). Not only will you enjoy better rates, but you’ll also experience the islands with fewer crowds and a more relaxed, authentic vibe than in the busy peak months of July and August.

Exact trip pricing for sailing tours in Croatia always depends on the trip length (3, 5 or 7 day) dates of travel, type of vessel booked, and number of guests splitting the costs. That being said, a ballpark figure for a 3-Day sail during the shoulder season on a standard sailboat costs around $3,500 USD. For a luxury catamaran on a 5-day sail, you can expect prices to range from approximately $15,000 USD to $20,000 USD depending on the vessel and dates of travel. In short, pricing is highly variable, and it’s all about finding the right fit for your group.

What’s Included on a Private Sailing Tour in Croatia?

All sailing tours in Croatia include the following:

• Private charter of the entire sailboat or catamaran
• Professional skipper
• Fuel for 4 hours of sailing daily
• Towels and bed linens
• Tourist tax
• Final cleaning of the boat

On deluxe charters, the following add-ons are typically available as well:

• Halfboard service (breakfast, light lunch, snacks and drinks)
• Onboard hostess
• Starter foodpack (breakfast items, pastas, fresh produce, condiments, drinks, alcoholic drinks etc.)

How do I book my own Private Sailing Tour in Croatia?

As this trip style continues to grow in popularity, the 10Adventures team has a ton of experience helping guests select the perfect sailing tour in Croatia! Whether you’re celebrating a special milestone, or just looking to bring family and friends together for a unique trip of a lifetime, we’re here to help. Connect with a travel advisor at 10Adventures today, and start dreaming up your majestic adventure at sea!