Sailing in Croatia – Practical Tips

Base info

The Croatian marinas are extremely efficient and have all modern facilities and a high level of service.

Navigation Permit

A so-called "Navigation Permit" = sailing permit is issued locally on the basis of the crewlists and papers sent to the base in advance. A fee is charged locally at the base for this permit per boat.

Tourist tax

In Croatia, a tourist tax is charged per person / day. The tax is collected at the base.

Ports

It is most pleasant to moor in small harbors or a berth among local boats and close to the square. Sometimes a fee is charged for lying too low. In return, they do a lot to keep the area protected and clean, and like to take waste ashore.

Marinas

Along the Adriatic coast, the Croatian authorities have built some nice marinas with all modern facilities, called ACI marina. The port dues are somewhat more expensive than in e.g. Denmark - they cost between DKK 400-700. for one night depending on season and boat size. On the other hand, the service is high and the facilities in order. The harbormaster is happy to be ready with moorings and help you in place. Contact the harbor office yourself for payment. Sometimes they want to see the shipping papers that you brought from the charter base. In the office, the staff is very helpful. There is also a lot of useful information and weather reports for the coming days.

Provisioning

It will be a good idea to be at the forefront of provisions for a few days out in the island - especially bread. If you choose to set sail in the Kornati Islands national park, there are only a few options for provisions.

Currency

The local currency in Croatia is Kuna (HRK) 1 Kunar = 100 Lipa. Payment methods: Mastercard may be used. Visa cards are less common.

Banks

At marina offices, at the border as well as in banks and exchange offices, EURO can be exchanged for the official bank rate. Remember to save the bill of exchange - it is used in case of exchange after the end of the holiday (can only be exchanged in banks).

Weather and wind

Weather forecasts with weather maps are available in all ACI marinas. The wind typically comes from the NW, light to fresh wind 6-10 m/s. Most of the time, the wind is calm in the morning, which is why it is a good idea to start sailing early. At lunchtime the wind increases, then decreases again in the evening. When anchoring under high mountains, strong downwinds can occur - also at night. The wind is deflected by sea and land breezes. Therefore, it is normal for the wind to turn to the northeast when the sun sets. Take this into account when choosing anchorages.

The sailing area

In protected National Parks, a fee is charged per night. The amount goes to conservation and nature protection as well as waste collection.

• The Brioni Islands close to Pula.
• The Kornati Archipelago.
• The environment north of Dubrovnik.
• Fish farming: Markings on the chart in certain fjords.
• Military area: Markings in charts/plots must be respected unconditionally.

Holiday tips for Sailing holidays in Croatia

Pula/Veruda. To the south in the Kvarner Archipelago, countless green and lush islands with countless rocky coves with great opportunities for swimming at anchor. The islands consist of former maritime towns, farming communities, old monasteries and beautiful cities with bell towers.

The Kornati Archipelago. is a large and unique nature reserve worthy of preservation in the middle of the coast with dramatic, barren and deserted islands, fine diving and snorkelling experiences - few landing spots - with peaceful anchorage coves.

Zadar. The Dalmatian coast from Zadar southward consists of a myriad of islands, natural harbors and glorious anchor bays with short sailing distances.

Biograd. Old town centers in golden stone with tiled roofs in the Italian building style, and local life in squares and promenades. Sailing up the Sibenik Fjord to Skradin marina, and from there an excursion to the national park with the impressive Krka waterfalls.

Kremik. To the south, countless green and lush islands with old historic cities.

Split. Characterized by Venetian and Roman architecture. Here, the population lives and lives in the middle of the sights - square squares with polished marble stones and cozy outdoor cafes, or small village communities where life goes its quiet way with arable farming, viticulture and fishing. Several of the old cities such as Split with the remains of Emperor Diocletian's Palace in the middle of the old city center as well as Trogir and Primosten are today protected by UNESCO.

Dubrovnik. Farthest south lies the pearl above all - Dubrovnik, which is also protected by UNESCO. The marina is located a few km north of the city, deep in the mouth of the Ombla river, in beautiful natural surroundings. Since it is still not possible to anchor inside the old harbor under the city walls, Dubrovnik will be easiest to visit by bus or taxi (several times daily) for a day trip. The island to the north includes i.a. adorable Korcula (where Marco Polo was born).