As always, Croatia is an incredible cruising ground, the most active sailing area in Europe. While this can lead to crowded anchorages, there are ample alternatives to the more popular spots. The Dalmatian Islands were our playground this September of 2023 — Trogir, Brać, Hvar, Vis, Lastovo, Mljet, Korčula, and Šolta.
September can sometimes bring weather to the islands, necessitating a few changes to itineraries. Leg One was delightful with exception of some breezy southeast headwinds. Dodging one thunderstorm delayed the Leg Two flotilla by one afternoon, allowing for parlor games and a splendid dinner aboard. Croatia’s islands afford numerous anchorages to accommodate itinerary changes for sailors. The country has prioritized nautical tourism so facilities are abundant and top notch.
During the adventure, Modern sailors had the opportunity to visit and tour historic vicinities of Uvala Gradina, Vela Luka, and Korcula Town on Korcula Island; Konoba Galija, Pomena; Lastovo, Uvala Skrivin; Uvala Prozura; Uvala Lučice, Brać; the famous Pakleni Island off Hvar Island, and more.
Tying up on the quay at Kut, Vis, the sailors found numerous konobas (wine cellars) and espresso bars to delight their senses. Offering a relaxed change of pace, Lastovo, Uvala Skrivina was quaint anchorage, isolated, and refreshingly undeveloped. The Konoba Porto Rosso provided an incredible meal under the stars and olive trees, an introduction to Dingac wine, and a traditional peka meal, a first for some in the group. A quay tie-up at Pomena brought them to Konoba Galija for another spectacular dinner. Korcula Town, Korcula Island is a gem for onshore activities — catching the famous sword dance, history, great food, and wine. At Hvar Island, the sailors explored one of Trip Leader Capt. Stephen Spoja's favorite spots, Stari Grad, a most picturesque and charming town with many konobas, swimming spots, and cafés.
Chibby Alloway was among the flotilla participants and was kind enough to share his personal thoughts about his recent experience sailing and exploring Croatia with Modern Sailing Global Destinations:
The Best Highlights of the Cruising Croatia 2023 Flotilla
- Incredible blue water with excellent swimming options at every stop. The water was so clear, typically we could see our anchorage down thirty to thirty-five feet!
- You go for the sea but every island stop had lots of hiking options. Several were National Parks and others were walks to wineries.
- Towns and harbors were coffee book picture material. Several of our anchorages had only 3-4 boats – isolated and quiet.
- Wine tasting was an option throughout the trip. In within town shops or at wineries. They offered up good tastes at fair prices. As lover of our local zin’s – it was interesting and fun to taste the parents and children of the original zinfandel variety. The whites surprised – unique and good buys.
Why Others Should Consider a Global Destinations Flotilla
- The catamarans we used were great boats for sitting, reading, and sleeping, and stable even in choppy seas. The seas and boats significantly minimize any seasickness concerns.
- Novice sailors can relax, the catamarans are easy boats to sail and the hired skippers handle the tough stuff.
- The boat was a movable hotel room with great views and towns as your next stop. We covered 10 days of sailing and new towns and never had to pack up and lug the suitcase up the stairs. At night you feel like you are sleeping at home.
A Glimpse into the Cruising Croatia Experience
We've also pulled together a short video with some of the photos taken by Cruising Croatia participants so you can have a glimpse into their experience. The end of the video includes an announcement about where Modern Sailing Global Destinations is going next!
