The enchanting kingdom of Croatia is replete with natural wonders but the most spectacular ones lie along the coast that it shares with the Adriatic Sea. The golden coast consists of miles of sandy beaches, with vibrant blue waves that froth up at the shores, with the salty sea breeze that offers a cool respite from the brilliant sunshine. The cornflower blue waters of the Adriatic Sea are home to vividly colored fish and crustaceans, which can be best witnessed by diving into the bays that surround the stunning Croatian islands. The splendor of these regions makes the Croatian coast an ideal location for sailing. Drifting with the currents from one breathtaking spot to another will reveal the most alluring features of these parts of Mediterranean Europe. Here are some of the most amazing sailing spots that you must not miss on your next Adriatic voyage.
The City Of Dubrovnik
The city of Dubrovnik offers a slice of Croatia’s history, owing to its well-preserved old town area. The town is fortified with massive stone walls that enclose several marvelous pieces of architecture from the bygone years. The magnificent monuments of this region include the Sponza Palace and the Rector’s Palace, which are fine examples of Renaissance and Gothic architecture respectively. A walk down the main street or Stradun is a great way to immerse in the culture of this town, with shops and restaurants thriving alongside the ancient buildings. Dubrovnik has been an important sea power since the 13th century and as such is aptly titled The Pearl of the Adriatic. Be sure to drop your anchors here and partake in the cultural feast provided by this city.
Hvar Island
The island of Hvar never sleeps, thanks to its famous nightlife that is well complemented by the pleasant climate and the beautiful beaches. The bustling activity of St. Stephen’s Square melts into the grandeur of St. Stephen’s Cathedral to create a boiling pot of modern culture and the glorious past. The Fortica offers some splendid views of the island and the sea, whereas the Franciscan Monastery is a quiet afternoon retreat. The lavender fields impart a soothing fragrance to the island, while the olive plantations and vineyards produce some of the finest olive oil and wine in the country. This gorgeous island also holds an important nautical position and provides several great spots for docking your boat, to plunge into the beauty of Hvar.
Kornati National Park
The Kornati National Park is an archipelago comprising of several islands, islets, and reefs. And as such, sailing through them is an exhilarating experience. Nestled atop the turquoise blue waters of the Adriatic Sea, this national park is often hailed as a Nautical Paradise and with good reason. The pristine greenery of the islands and the spectacular marine life of the surrounding sea are what attract throngs of tourists to this national park. Some of the most picturesque spots include the Spinuta Bay, the Lavsa Bay, and the Mana island. The Purara reserve has preserved some wonderful marine ecosystems whereas the glimmering waters of Mala Proversa are a treat for the eyes. Diving and snorkeling are the most popular activities and provisions for the same are available at various locations in the park.
City Of Trogir
The most remarkable aspect of the city of Trogir is the well-planned layout that dates back to the Hellenistic period. The city is also abundant in relics from the Roman and Venetian ages, in the form of palaces, churches, and towers. The most popular beach here is the Medena beach, which is ideal for windsurfing and kayaking, and has a promenade dotted with tennis courts, bars, and ice cream shops. The city houses several museums, such as the Trogir Museum and the Museum of Sacred Art. But in reality, the entire city is a museum that displays several chapters of its history with the well-preserved architecture. The local harbor is one of the major attractions, which offers shelter to many of Croatian yacht charter tours and tourist boats throughout the year.
Brac Island
As you float on the Adriatic waters, it is hard to miss the island of Brac, because of the horn-shaped white beach of Zlatni Rat. Apart from this uniquely shaped beach, the high-quality limestone obtained from the local quarries is what has put Brac on the international map. The southern part of the island is excellent for tourist activities, such as windsurfing and sunbathing, whereas the northern regions have a rocky terrain and rustic charm. The oldest settlement of the island is at Skrip, where one can revel in the medieval architecture of the forts and the churches. The Roman Mausoleum, the Island of Brac Museum, and the Museum of Olive Oil are some of the best depictions of the rich cultural heritage of this island.
These beautiful coastal towns and islands capture the essence of Croatia and are a celebration of its natural diversity and cultural roots. The harmonious blend of the old and the new is symbolic of the tolerant and welcoming attitude of this nation. These mesmerizing coastal destinations create the perfect itinerary for an invigorating Croatian cruise.