A European grand tour by yacht. Next stop - Croatia

Planning your European grand tour by yacht

Croatia and Montenegro 

A chain of 1,400 islands runs from north to south along the eastern side of the Adriatic Sea. That’s the defining feature of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast – and what makes it a world class yacht charter destination. You can expect superb cruising in sheltered, turquoise waters with great potential for watersports, a wealth of historic towns and cultural attractions – ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites – plus top-notch fine dining and excellent rustic cuisine.

Here’s an insider’s tip: consider starting your Croatia yacht charter in Venice before crossing the neck of the Adriatic to Istria in Croatia. Venice always was – and still is – an essential part of a grand tour of Europe, and it’s been the most influential port on the Adriatic for more than a thousand years. Begin your tour there and you’ll keep on discovering echoes of Venetian architecture, culture and history all the way down the Dalmatian Coast and beyond.

Another tip is to plan your cruise from north to south. It feels less breezy on the sun deck when you’re travelling in the same direction as the prevailing wind rather than going against it.

An ideal first stop near the north end of the route is the lovely old town of Rovinj with its spectacular setting, Italianate buildings and charming streets, its towering Gothic church and 22 off-lying islands to explore, where you can find your own private beach.

Next, head south to see the remarkably well preserved 2,000-year-old Roman arena at Pula.

If you fancy some hedonism, spend an afternoon and evening dancing in the sea with the huge throngs of party people at Noa Beach Club at Kolan on Pag Island. Alternatively, take a detour inland to the seven spectacular waterfalls in the lush green Krka National Park, hike through limestone canyons and bathe in the cool, emerald green waters.

Next, thread your way south through the barren yet beautiful maze of the 140 Kornati Islands, where stark white rock formations make a surreal contrast with the sparkling blue sea. Spend some time in the ancient city of Split, whose beauty belies its buzzing nightlife. The vast former Roman emperor’s residence, Diocletian’s Palace, now holds a delightful array of cafés, restaurants and boutiques.

Hvar is the Saint-Tropez of the Adriatic, a place that shouldn’t be missed. It’s a gorgeous historic old town with a vibrant party scene – top international DJs play at Carpe Diem. On the way there, check out the Blue Grotto of Biševo and dive or snorkel off the island of Vis (which also has some of the best seafood in the Adriatic).

Other highlights in the middle of the archipelago include the stunning Golden Cape Beach and Forest (Zlatni Rat) and Korcula, the walled city on the island of the same name with its historic cathedral and top class cuisine. 

Further south, there’s the Mljet National Park and marine reserve en route to the two stand-out highlights of your Croatia yacht charter.

Dubrovnik at the far southern end of the Dalmatian Coast and Kotor just across the border in Montenegro are famous and unmissable UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The eastern Adriatic saves its very best till last. 

Planning your European grand tour by yacht. Introduction

Planning your European grand tour by yacht. First stop - France

Planning your European grand tour by yacht. Next stop - Italy

Croatia

Planning your European grand tour by yacht. Next stop - Greece

Planning your European grand tour by yacht. Next stop - Turkey

Planning your European tour by yacht. Next stop - Scotland

Planning your European grand tour by yacht. Last stop - Norway

Talk to a Burgess charter broker today about making your grand tour dreams a reality. Enquire now

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