Best time to visit Croatia

Cruising and Sailing in Croatia

Follow Marco Polo's path and explore Croatia's numerous islands

Best time: March–November

Cruising and Sailing
Cruising and Sailing

Why choose just one of Croatia's beautiful islands if you can visit dozens of them? There are about 1000 islands in Croatia, and the best way to explore them is to go island hopping by boat or ferry. You can start from most well-known islands like Brač, famous for its beaches, windsurfing, delicious cheese and tangerine. Don't miss the island of Korčula, where a famous battle between the fleet of the republic of Genoa and Venice took place in 1298. Then move to hidden getaways like Silba, an island without cars and even bicycles are unofficially banned there from mid-July to late August to preserve the island’s tranquillity. Mljet island will be perfect for nature lovers with its rich forests and untouched flora. The island of Vis is perfect for couples. The island of Pag is known for its cheese and restaurants. The cruise season lasts from March to November but the best weather conditions for cruising are usually from May to October.

Practical info

What are the best months to go cruising and sailing in Croatia?

Croatia's cruise season lasts from March to November, with the peak weather periods estimated between May to October. During these months the weather is mild, and visitors can indulge in the country's crystal clear waters without the worry of rain or heavy waves. The ideal climate is suitable for swimming, diving, or snorkelling and offers the perfect environment for vacationing enthusiasts. Show more

Which are some of the most well-known islands in Croatia that one can visit by boat or ferry?

Discovering Croatia's 1000 islands offers an ideal vacation experience by boat or ferry. While many are famed, a few coveted islands include the beachy, windsurfing destination of Brac, Korčula where in 1298 a historic battle happened between Genoa and Venice, Mljet Island that is forest-rich and lush, ideal for nature buffs and the romantic, secluded Vis Island. Pag Island also draws cheese and restaurant enthusiasts from around the world due to its fame. Show more

What is the recommended number of days or weeks to spend exploring Croatia's islands by boat or ferry?

While your preference may vary, the ideal duration for exploring Croatia's islands for most visitors is a week or more. With a 7 to 10-day trip, visitors can experience the popular islands, indulge in the local cuisine and wine, visit secluded beaches and swim in the transparent and crystalline waters while enjoying a relaxing week of cruising. This timeline will offer the perfect balance between experiencing the beauty of the islands and rejuvenating peacefully. Show more

Are there any islands near Croatia that can be visited as part of a sailing and cruising itinerary in the region?

Apart from the beautiful and serene Croatian islands you can add to your sailing itinerary, other stunning destinations include Montenegro, the Venice lagoon, the Albanian coast, and even the Brijuni Islands. Another option would be exploring the Kornati archipelago featuring over 140 islands, islets, and reefs. These unparalleled destinations are only a stone's throw away from Croatia and assure an adventure-filled vacation to satisfy every visitor. Show more

What are some of the unique things to experience on some of the lesser-known islands in Croatia that one should not miss?

Exploring the lesser-known islands in Croatia is an opportunity to witness their exclusive escapes. Mljet Island offers an underwater world to explore, featuring saltwater lakes and unblemished forests that are part of its protected UNESCO national park. Silba Island, with its charming architecture, dense greenery, car-free, and bike-free environment, offers a secluded and peaceful retreat. The Island of Lastovo is famous for offering some of Europe's clearest night skies, ideal for star-gazing. Molat Island offers the best marine life in the country and is a diving or snorkelling enthusiast's dream destination. Show more

Ask a question

Find hotels and airbnbs near Cruising and Sailing (Map)

Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin