Anchored sailboat in shallow sea at island Veli Prznjak, Dalmatia, Croatia in autumn morning.
Navigating the waters of Croatia offers the opportunity to sail in the same seas that legendary figures called home. Among these luminaries are the heroic Odysseus of Homer’s epic, as well as St. Paul, both of whom found themselves shipwrecked in these very waters, subsequently seeking refuge on the enchanting Croatian island of Mljet nestled in Southern Dalmatia. For history enthusiasts, retracing the voyage of the famous merchant Marco Polo, who began his maritime adventures from his birthplace on the island of Korčula, is an enticing prospect.
Autumn is the perfect time to experience Croatia nautically (though the winds are favorable in this part of the world all year round). It may surprise visitors to learn that no less than 262 cruising boat regattas have been held in the country since 2017. Examples of such regattas are the Mrduja or the Fiumanka regattas, and the South Dalmatian regatta held during the peak season between Korčula and Dubrovnik.
Thanks to the extremely favorable Mediterranean winds, many visit Croatia in the autumn to savor the natural beauty of over 1,200 gorgeous islands. Many people don’t realize that Croatia harbors over 40 percent of the world’s charter fleet.
Sailing through the islands offers a unique, unforgettable vantage point to see the country and its numerous coves and sandy beaches. Just on the coast of Croatia alone, there are over 60 marinas, as well as seasonal marinas that become busy during the bustling autumn months.
Yachts near the island in turquoise water
Top 5 Reasons Why Sailing in Croatia in the Fall is a Must
Here are just a few reasons to raise your sails during the fall:
Summer can be very hot, but in the fall temperatures are ideal for those who want to sail these historical waters.
Less crowds: The crowds are less intense so you’ll have many beaches and coves completely to yourself. Enjoy endless opportunities to swim and soak in the incredible beauty.
Lower (Or No) Mooring Fees: In the fall, many places no longer charge mooring fees so you may be able to park your boat free of charge (and this means you can put your savings to better use, like shop for coral souvenirs on the island of Zlarin, for instance!).
Choose Your Sail: Fall gives you more options. You can sail out of the marina on the boat of your choice instead of settling for what’s available. With the cooler temperatures and access to many more hidden bays, fall becomes the perfect foil for a nautical getaway to Croatia’s many islands.
Stable Winds: Every sailor’s dream is to have clear, sunny skies and perfect wind conditions, and this dream becomes a reality in the fall.
Beautiful Cavtat town near Dubrovnik in Croatia
Sights to See
If you’re unsure of how to start your nautical journey, here are some tips.
- Regatta Your Way To the Islands: Take in a regatta — there are many to choose from, including an all-women’s version.
- Historical Sails: If you’re into history, opt for the 3,000-year-old statue of Apoxyomenos on Lošinj. Or head to the island of Brač to see the stone used in the White House…the possibilities are endless.
- Soak in National Parks: Take in Croatia’s verdant national parks by boat, including those in Mljet, Krka, Paklenica, Kornati and Brijuni.
