Top 10 Amazing Places to Visit in Croatia on a Private Yacht

Sailing along Croatia’s Adriatic coast on a private yacht is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have. There’s something about the salty breeze, the shimmer of ancient stone cities, and the freedom to wake up in a new bay every morning that makes this kind of trip feel like magic. If you’ve ever dreamed of chartering a yacht through the Mediterranean, Croatia should be at the very top of your list.

Sailing in Croatia offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, rich history, and freedom on the open sea. This guide dives into everything you need to know to make your dream voyage along the Adriatic coast a reality.

Aerial view of a coastal town at sunset with yachts docked at a marina, narrow streets, and buildings surrounded by the sea.

1. Dubrovnik

Starting in the south, Dubrovnik is the perfect launchpad. Cruising past the iconic city walls from the sea is absolutely surreal—especially at sunset. You’ll feel like you’ve sailed into a fantasy novel. Moor the yacht at the nearby ACI Marina Dubrovnik or in the old harbor if you can snag a spot, and then step into centuries of history.

Take your time wandering the narrow limestone streets, walking the city walls, and visiting iconic spots like Fort Lovrijenac and Rector’s Palace. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll recognize King’s Landing around every corner. After a day of exploring, enjoy a meal at a seaside restaurant like Nautika, with views back toward the shimmering Adriatic.

Pro tip: Avoid peak hours by visiting the city early morning or late evening. It’s quieter, cooler, and way more atmospheric.

A harbor with numerous docked boats in front of historic stone buildings at sunset, under a cloudy sky.

Aerial view of a walled old town with red-roofed buildings on a coastline, surrounded by the sea, with an island and boats in the background.

2. Mljet Island

This island is mostly national park, which means untouched nature, tranquil bays, and pine-scented air. Drop your anchor in Polače Bay—calm, scenic, and perfect for a morning paddleboard session. The bay is well-sheltered, ideal for overnight stays.

Once ashore, explore Mljet National Park, home to two saltwater lakes, Veliko and Malo Jezero. The larger lake has a small islet with a 12th-century Benedictine monastery. It’s worth renting a bike or e-bike to take in the lush surroundings. The park also has great swimming and picnic spots if you’re after a more relaxed afternoon.

Don’t miss: Renting bikes and cycling around the saltwater lakes of Mljet. There’s even a 12th-century monastery on an island in the middle of one.

A small, densely forested island with a conical shape sits in blue water near a coastline with a few houses and boats.

3. Korčula

Known as a “mini Dubrovnik,” Korčula is all medieval charm without the crowds. The old town is a maze of stone alleys, terracotta roofs, and striking Venetian architecture. It’s also known as the (disputed) birthplace of Marco Polo.

It’s perfect to moor at Lumbarda, a quieter village surrounded by vineyards and sandy beaches, just a short taxi or bike ride from the main town. Don’t miss a wine tasting at one of the local wineries—the island is known for Grk, a crisp and rare white wine grown almost exclusively here.

Insider tip: Try the local white wine, Grk—it’s crisp and perfect with fresh seafood.

Aerial view of a coastal town with red-roofed buildings surrounded by clear blue sea and several small islands in the background.

A coastal town with red-roofed buildings and a central church tower, bordered by water and mountains, viewed through nearby trees.

4. Hvar

No yacht trip to Croatia is complete without stopping in Hvar. It’s lively, glamorous, and a favorite among celebrities for a reason. That said, if you want a more peaceful experience, anchor in one of the nearby coves and take a short dinghy ride into town.

Once in Hvar, explore the town square, climb the Spanish Fortress for panoramic views, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. The waterfront promenade is lined with excellent restaurants and chic bars. You can have an unforgettable dinner at Dalmatino, then strolled through the cobbled streets under the stars.

Perfect day: Brunch in town, hike up to the fortress for views over the Pakleni Islands, then sip cocktails at Hula Hula as the sun dips below the horizon.

View of a coastal town with red-roofed buildings, a marina filled with boats, and several small islands in the sea, seen through a stone archway.

Panoramic view of a coastal town with red-roofed buildings, a marina filled with boats, and small islands visible across blue water at sunset.

5. Pakleni Islands

These little islets just off Hvar are a paradise for yacht lovers. Each one feels like a hidden gem, with secluded coves and beach bars tucked among pine forests. It’s best to spend two days just hopping between them.

Anchor in Vinogradišće Bay on St. Klement Island and enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters. The island has a few great restaurants, like Laganini Lounge Bar, where we had fresh-caught fish and local wine right by the water.

Top spot: Vinogradišće Bay on St. Klement Island—vibrant, chill, and absolutely stunning.

Aerial view of a coastal landscape with clear blue water, small islands, green vegetation, and boats creating white wakes on the sea.

6. Vis

Vis feels like a well-kept secret. Because it was a military base for decades, it’s less developed than the other islands, which makes it so peaceful. Crystal-clear waters, authentic taverns, and laid-back charm—it’s a dream.

It’s best to dock in the quaint harbor of Komiža and explored narrow streets filled with old stone houses and quiet cafes. Don’t miss the chance to try peka, a traditional dish of meat or seafood slow-cooked under a bell-like lid. It’s absolutely delicious.

Highlight: Exploring the Blue Cave on nearby Biševo Island. Go early to avoid the crowds and catch the sunlight turning the cave into a glowing blue wonder.

Aerial view of a coastal village with stone houses, red-tiled roofs, and a small boat in the water, set against a green hillside at sunset.

A coastal town with red-roofed buildings overlooks a marina filled with sailboats and yachts, surrounded by green hills and blue water.

7. Stiniva Cove

This narrow, hidden beach on Vis was hands-down one of the most dramatic spots we anchored. Surrounded by steep cliffs, it feels like a private pocket of paradise. Getting there by yacht is way more fun than hiking in from the land side.

The entrance is quite narrow, so many yachts anchor outside the cove and head in by dinghy. Once inside, you’ll find a small pebble beach and excellent snorkeling. Bring a picnic and enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature.

Note: Anchoring can be tricky due to the rocky bottom—use a dinghy or kayak to explore.

Clear turquoise water flows between two rocky cliffs, opening to a small, sandy beach with green vegetation and blue sky in the background.

8. Brač

The island of Brač is home to the iconic Zlatni Rat Beach—a golden horn of sand stretching into turquoise water. It’s one of the most photographed beaches in Croatia, and for good reason. The shape of the beach changes slightly with the tides and wind.

It’s incredible to sail along the southern coast, where you can find a quiet spot near the town of Milna. Here you can enjoy an amazing seafood dinners ashore. Brač also has an impressive inland side, with olive groves, quarries (that supplied stone for the White House!), and charming villages.

For adventure lovers: Try windsurfing or hiking to Vidova Gora, the highest point on all the Adriatic islands.

A hillside village with stone houses and terracotta roofs features a tall church tower, surrounded by trees and set against a partly cloudy sky.

A stone building complex with a red-roofed tower stands among trees on a coast, bordered by a stone wall, with clear blue water in the foreground.

9. Šolta

This is one of those places that doesn’t try to impress—it just quietly steals your heart. Fewer tourists, sleepy fishing villages, and hidden bays made it one of our favorite stops. Maslinica on the western tip is a must.

We anchored in a nearby bay and swam ashore for dinner at Martinis Marchi, a beautiful hotel and restaurant set in a restored 18th-century castle. The water here is so clear, and the sunsets were some of the best we saw during the trip.

Why we loved it: Peaceful anchorages, stargazing from the deck, and chatting with locals over wine.

Coastal village with red-tiled roofs, boats docked along a blue shoreline, and green trees in the foreground under a clear sky.

10. Trogir

Trogir is a UNESCO-listed gem just north of Split. It’s great to end your trip here and it was the perfect farewell. Its old town is tiny but packed with history, charm, and great restaurants. Mooring is easy, and the marina is just a short walk from the town gates.

Take time to explore the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, the Kamerlengo Fortress, and the waterfront promenade. Trogir is also conveniently located near Split Airport, which made our departure smooth and stress-free.

Final toast: Have your last glass of Croatian wine at a rooftop bar overlooking the marina—bittersweet and beautiful.

Aerial view of a coastal town with red-roofed buildings, a central church tower, a marina with boats, and hills in the background.

Coastal town with historic stone buildings, church towers, a fortress, and boats docked along the waterfront, with mountains in the background under a cloudy sky.

Final Thoughts

Sailing Croatia on a private yacht is like living a dream. Every bay, village, and island has its own rhythm and charm. The freedom to explore at your own pace—whether chasing sunsets or finding the perfect swim spot—will make this journey feel deeply personal and unforgettable.