Flights on layby, Facebook group assembled, planning your euro summer escape is half the fun. While the Aussie summer heats up with a slow burn towards pure bliss, settle yourself with thoughts of exploring the Croatian coast.
Game of Thrones fan? Wander the walls of Kinds Landing and look out on the kingdom of Westeros as far as the eye can see. Party child? Stumbling in and out of the Hvar bars with new friends in tow is a soon to be reality. Or if you enjoy chasing waterfalls or any body of water for that matter, then the pebbled beaches and sea swims are for you. No matter your interest in Croatia, sailing is a fine way to see it all.
Gather your travel crew and work out just what you’re there for, there really is an option for everyone. Hard partiers, sunbakers or avid hikers. Here’s how to make the best choice for a summer trip so epic, you’ll be that bronzed returnee who doesn’t shut up about it until October. See you in Croatia ’17!
Sail Croatia
At the top of everyone’s list, when people think of sailing Croatia this crew is the first port of call, to a euro summer worth not remembering. Ready your liver and steady your sea legs, Sail Croatia’s offering is one non stop party. Pick your start point in either Split or Dubrovnik and off you go. The Split return itinerary hits all of Croatia’s party hotspots Hvar, Pag, Vodice and Zadar. Bring stripes, the pirate dress up is a particular highlight. For those wanting a week of nightlife with sights spliced in, this one is for you.
Yacht Week
A week of sheer debauchery, Yacht Week is an institution in it’s own right. If you’re on another tour, you’ll notice when the Yacht Week boats roll in that’s when the party begins. Famous for their floating festival where the yachts raft up and the party spills across all decks. Taking you from Split to Hula Hula Beach Bar, to the Blue Lagoon, then to the Green Caves and all the way back. Not one for the faint hearted, there is something on every night, with the White Party capping it all off. You can even tie your sail in with Ultra Festival, save yourself from planning. No nights off with this one.
Med Experience
Sun bakers, soakers and seaside floaters, an option for the relaxation deprived. By their own account it’s 50% parties and 50% soaking up the sun. A hit with Aussie travellers, 41% on average are from this fine nation. If you’re interested in meeting foreigners you’ll just have to trawl the local club instead. If resting your head on lush beds and sailing in style is of top concern, Med Experience is your winner.
Med Sailors
Med Sailors offer the ideal trail for those who are down to party but also enjoy a rest night every once in a while. The skippers are lovely, the food so much better than expected and the organised experiences authentic. You won’t want to leave. One of the best benefits of sailing is the swim spots along the way, these skippers will take your there. For a little extra why not upgrade your sleeping quarters to the deluxe offering, worth every scent. This one is a favourite for couples too so if you’ve got any in your crew look no further. The stop in Mijet is all time.
Busabout
For those taking on the coast on a shoestring budget, Busabout is your pick. For a prime price you can enjoy the best Croatia has to offer without wasting a cent on accommodation. It’s all about the destination and less about the journey, Bol, Korcula and the pirate town of Omis make the trip. The ships are full of likeminded travellers and you’ll be tee-d up with an event roster so full you’ll need that drink at the end of the day.
Topdeck
Dreaming of sunsets on sailboats and exploring ancient towns? A Topdeck sailor’s life is most certainly for you. A UNESCO heritage spot or two, captivating national parks and multiple nights in Hvar. What’s not to love? A solution to keep everyone happy at a decent price, with options no matter your direction. Start in Split or Dubrovnik and end in either, it’s up to you. Oddly though there’s no drinking on board, not a bad excuse to stay at all night. Or make friends with sailors who can host pres.
Do It Yourself
Croatia has a fine network of ferries and water taxis to take you coast to coast without a skipper. If you’re all about wandering and roaming free this may just be the ticket for you. It requires extra research but the flexibility is liberating. Plus you’ll be able to visit the corners of Croatia that the tours often miss, like stunning Dugi otok off the coast of Zadar (pictured above). Go at your own pace and steer your own journey. You will miss out on the comradery that brews upon sailing adventures, but if you have your own group then no stress. Jadrolinija is the main line, you could even ferry over to Italy after.
Image source: Bad Boy Lifestyle, Med Experience, Footprints of A Wanderer, The Unimpossibles, Sail Croatia, A Modern Wayfarer, Split GG.
