Why Split Is the Perfect Starting Point for Your Sailing Adventure

Frano Sestan

Jan 24, 2025

Split: The Gateway to the Adriatic

Often considered the "gateway to the Adriatic," Split is the second-largest city in Croatia. Split is the perfect starting point for any sailing experience because of its rich history, vibrant culture, and prime location along the Dalmatian coast. From its modern marinas to its proximity to some of Croatia's most famous islands, Split provides everything a sailor could possibly need. This guide explores why Split is the ideal starting point for your sailing adventure.

Historical Charm Meets Contemporary Comfort

Split's unique mix of modern conveniences and heritage is one of its strongest appeals. Centered around the 4th-century Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city offers an enchanting experience. Walking through its narrow cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time, yet you're never far from trendy cafés, restaurants, and boutique stores.

For sailors, this combination is a dream. Spend a day exploring the city's ancient sites, indulging in its cuisine, and shopping at bustling markets to prepare for your journey. Split's location ensures you'll begin your trip in a city that perfectly balances convenience and leisure.

Equipped Marinas

Split boasts several top-notch marinas catering to every kind of sailor. Among them:

ACI Marina Split: One of the largest and most modern marinas in Croatia, conveniently located near the city center. It offers nearly 300 berths, a petrol station, repair services, and on-site restaurants.
Marina Kaštela: Located just 10 kilometers from Split, this is a quieter alternative. Known for its skilled crew and excellent facilities, it's an ideal and stress-free starting point.

Both marinas provide everything you need to prepare for your sailing journey.

Nearby Iconic Islands

One of the main reasons Split is such a popular sailing base is its proximity to some of Croatia's most famous islands. Within just a few hours of sailing, you can reach incredible destinations, including:

Hvar: Known as the "queen" of the Dalmatian islands, famous for its lavender fields, vibrant nightlife, and historic villages.
Brač: Home to Zlatni Rat, one of Croatia's most iconic beaches, just an hour’s sail from Split.
Vis: Offers a more secluded and authentic experience. While farther out, the trip is worth it—don’t miss the Blue Cave on nearby Biševo Island.
Šolta: A hidden gem with serene harbors and charming small towns, perfect for a peaceful first day of sailing.

Starting your journey in Split allows for a mix of lively hotspots and tranquil escapes.

Rich Culinary Scene

No sailing trip is complete without sampling the local cuisine, and Split does not disappoint. Indulge in classic Dalmatian dishes like pašticada (braised beef with gnocchi) or fresh seafood caught that morning. The city’s waterfront Riva is lined with restaurants offering both local and international flavors.

For provisioning your yacht, Split’s Fish Market and Green Market are must-visits. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce to local cheeses and olive oil—perfect for stocking up before you set sail.

Easy Accessibility

Split is well-connected by air, road, train, and sea. For international travelers, Split Airport is just 25 kilometers from the city center. Additionally, Split is a major hub for ferry connections, making it accessible even if you're traveling from another part of Croatia or a neighboring country.

Once you arrive, the city’s compact layout and efficient transportation make getting around effortless—even with all your sailing equipment in tow.

A Dynamic Pre-Sailing Experience

Starting your sailing journey in Split isn’t just practical—it’s fun. Highlights include:

Visiting the historic Peristyle Square.
Exploring Marjan Hill for panoramic views of the city.
Relaxing at Bačvice Beach.

The city’s lively atmosphere and stunning natural beauty create the perfect backdrop for the start of your sailing adventure.

In Essence

As a base for your sailing trip, Split offers everything you could wish for. Its historical charm, modern amenities, excellent marinas, and proximity to breathtaking islands make it the perfect choice. Starting your adventure in Split ensures a smooth and unforgettable journey, whether you’re a first-time sailor or a seasoned pro.

Make Split your base as you plan your Croatian sailing holiday—you won’t regret it. From here, the Adriatic is yours to explore.

What to Expect If You Choose to Sleep in a Bay vs. a Marina

Where to Spend the Night: Bay or Marina? One of the most important choices during your Croatian sailing trip is deciding where to spend the night. Mooring in a marina and anchoring in a bay offer very different experiences. Depending on your group, preferences, and itinerary, one may suit you more—or you might combine both for a richer journey. Knowing what to expect from each option helps you plan your days, pack accordingly, and set the right tone for your adventure. Sleeping in a Bay: Peace, Privacy, and Nature When anchored in a bay, you're surrounded by nature. The atmosphere is tranquil, the sea is calm, and the sense of solitude is powerful. Bays offer quiet evenings, star-filled skies, and the gentle sound of waves against the hull. Having the bay to yourself or sharing it with only a few boats adds to the charm. After sunset, you're likely to be the only lights around. Silent breakfasts, early morning swims, and stunning sunrises all add to the magic. However, keep in mind: Shore access is only via dinghy. There's no shore power or water supply, so you rely on the yacht’s tanks and batteries. Weather conditions, especially wind, must be monitored closely. This is where your skipper steps in. They’ll choose a well-protected anchorage and ensure the boat is safely set. Most yachts are equipped with anchor alarms and safety systems for peace of mind. Sleeping in a Marina: Access, Comfort, and Convenience Mooring in a marina offers a different experience—more amenities, comfort, and ease. You’ll be close to restaurants, shops, showers, and even nightlife. For many, staying in a marina feels more like staying in a hotel. Key advantages include: Shore power and fresh water—no need to monitor usage. Access to on-site restrooms and showers. Stable conditions and extra security, especially in changing weather. Marinas are particularly convenient for families, or groups who want to explore towns without relying on the dinghy at night. They also simplify refueling and restocking supplies before continuing your journey. Still, there are trade-offs. Marinas are often busier, noisier, and more expensive—especially during high season. Instead of nature sounds, you may hear music from the dockside or the creaking of mooring lines. Budget and Atmosphere Differences Atmosphere is where the contrast is clearest. Bays offer seclusion and connection to nature. Marinas are social, structured, and lively. From a budget standpoint, anchoring in bays is typically free or low-cost unless using a buoy field. Marinas, on the other hand, charge a nightly fee based on location, boat size, and season. Many sailors prefer to alternate between both—enjoying nature, then recharging in a marina when needed. Your skipper can easily adapt the itinerary to fit your group’s mood, needs, and weather. Choosing Between Marina and Bay: What to Consider Your skipper will often ask key questions when planning the evening stop: Do you want to dine onboard or go out to a restaurant? Is anyone prone to seasickness when at anchor? Are you seeking nightlife or a peaceful night? Do you need to do provisioning tomorrow? What’s the weather forecast for the evening? Sharing your preferences early helps your skipper strike the right balance. Some guests prefer anchoring most nights, with just one or two marina stays midweek for laundry or dinner ashore. Conclusion: It's Not One or the Other—It's the Balance The most memorable sailing itineraries blend the freedom of anchoring with the comforts of marinas. Bays offer privacy and stillness, while marinas offer convenience and activity. Let your skipper know what matters most—sunsets in quiet coves or easy town access. Either way, you’ll wake up with the sea beneath you, and that’s the essence of a true sailing holiday.

What You Should Know About Sailing Toilets, Water Tanks, and Power Use Before You Board

Croatian sailing offers stunning scenery, pristine waters, and the freedom to explore the coastline. Before boarding your yacht and venturing into the Adriatic, it's helpful to understand how life on board works—especially when it comes to freshwater tanks, electricity consumption, and sailing toilets (marine heads). Life on a boat is different from a hotel or apartment. Systems that power showers, lights, and toilets rely on limited resources. By learning how these systems function and what’s expected of guests, you can make your experience smoother, more sustainable, and enjoyable. How Sailing Toilets Work Marine heads are relatively simple systems that require care. Most are manual flush systems, using a handle or lever to pump seawater in and out. Some yachts have electric toilets, but the basic principle remains the same. The most important rule: nothing should go down the toilet unless it’s been through your body—except a small amount of toilet paper. Wet wipes, tissues, sanitary products, or excess paper can clog the system quickly. Fixing a blocked toilet is unpleasant and often expensive. Your skipper will demonstrate how to use the toilet before departure. Even if it seems simple, take a moment to listen—it can save a lot of trouble for everyone. Water Tanks: Why Conservation Matters Unlike on land, boats rely on freshwater tanks that are refilled in marinas. Depending on the yacht’s size and the number of passengers, a full tank can last one to three days with mindful use. Water is used for drinking, cooking, cleaning, brushing teeth, and showering. Everyone benefits from using it wisely. For example, showers should be short—many guests use the "navy shower" method: rinse, soap, rinse. Don’t leave water running when brushing your teeth or washing dishes. Avoid rinsing gear with fresh water unless it’s necessary. For larger cleaning tasks, your skipper may recommend using seawater for the first rinse. Power Consumption: How Boat Electricity Works Sailing yachts typically run on 12V batteries charged by the engine, solar panels, or shore power in marinas. This means electricity is limited, especially while anchored away from a port. Devices like phones, cameras, and tablets can be charged via 12V or USB outlets (similar to a car). High-power appliances like hair dryers or coffee machines require shore power. Other onboard systems—such as electric toilets, lights, refrigerators, and pumps—also rely on the same battery. Leaving lights or fans running can drain power quickly. Skippers often recommend turning off unused devices, especially overnight or while sailing. Why It Matters for Comfort and Safety Following simple rules—like short showers, proper toilet use, and mindful power habits—helps avoid running out of essential resources during your trip. It also keeps the yacht safer and more efficient. The fewer technical issues the skipper has to handle, the more time you have to explore and enjoy. You’ll also avoid delays caused by waiting for repairs in port. Tips to Make It Easier You don’t need to know everything before you arrive. Most skippers will give a clear, friendly explanation before departure. But a few habits help: Don’t hesitate to ask questions, especially about charging or toilets. Use freshwater as if you were in a remote cabin. Save power when possible—especially when not plugged into shore power. After a day or two, these routines will feel natural, and you’ll adapt quickly to life at sea. Conclusion: Small Adjustments, Big Benefits It may not sound glamorous, but knowing how toilets, water, and electricity work on board is one of the best ways to prepare for a sailing holiday in Croatia. A few small changes to daily routines make the experience more efficient, comfortable, and respectful—toward both the boat and the environment. When everyone on board is mindful of these systems, the yacht becomes more than transport—it becomes a floating home. And like any good home, it runs best when everyone looks after it.

Why You Should Let Your Skipper Handle Local Bookings (Restaurants, Activities)

Making plans for a sailing trip down the Croatian coast means stepping into a world where local knowledge, timing, and relationships can make all the difference. While it might be tempting to manage restaurant reservations or book island activities online, one of the smartest decisions you can make is to let your skipper take care of local bookings. A professional skipper doesn’t just know how to sail—they know the coast inside out. Their insight is often the key to a smoother, more authentic experience, from finding the best seafood spots away from tourist prices to steering you toward worthwhile excursions. Skippers Know Insider Information You Won’t Find Online Online reviews can be helpful, but they don’t always tell the whole story. A restaurant with five stars might turn out to be an overpriced tourist trap, while a hidden, family-run konoba in a quiet bay may not show up in any search results. Skippers build a mental map of consistently good, local places over years of sailing. They know which beach bars are more hype than substance, which local guides deliver the best experiences, and which harbours to avoid on busy days. By letting your skipper handle bookings, you tap into this deep well of lived experience. Better Access and Timing In high season, it’s common for restaurants and tours in places like Hvar, Vis, or Korčula to be fully booked. Skippers often have direct phone numbers, personal relationships, and even friendships with restaurant owners that allow them to secure last-minute reservations or organise special access. They also understand timing—how long a sail might take, how weather affects arrival times, and how to adapt plans if necessary. While your online booking might assume a 7 PM arrival, your skipper knows that the wind may say otherwise. They can adjust reservations in real time so that you never miss out. Avoid Tourist Traps and Overpriced Experiences Planning on your own can sometimes lead to disappointing or costly decisions—a crowded boat tour, a flashy restaurant with poor food, or a beach bar blasting music all night right next to your anchorage. Skippers can steer you away from these pitfalls. They know which events are truly worth your time and which are all marketing. They might guide you to a beach only reachable by dinghy, a vineyard still crushing grapes by hand, or a restaurant where the morning’s catch comes straight from the owner’s brother’s boat. Smoother Group Coordination Travelling with friends or family? Group decisions can quickly turn into debates. What to eat, where to go, who to book—all of it can cause stress. When your skipper takes charge of the logistics, everything flows more easily. By getting a feel for the group’s mood and preferences early on, the skipper can recommend a quiet dinner one evening and a lively konoba the next—all without the group scrolling endlessly through review sites. They Know What’s Happening Right Now The weather changes. Marinas fill up. A normally quiet restaurant might be hosting a loud party. Your skipper stays in touch with other sailors, harbour masters, and locals—often getting real-time updates through radio or word of mouth. This means your skipper can recommend an alternative that’s even better: a last-minute hillside restaurant with a view, or a guide who just became available that evening. These last-minute changes often become the highlights of your trip. Final Thoughts: Trust the Local Expert On Board Sailing with a skipper isn’t just about chartering a boat—it’s about gaining access to an entire network of local insight, personal contacts, and up-to-date knowledge. Letting your skipper manage bookings means less stress, fewer tourist traps, and more authentic experiences. So instead of planning every detail in advance, talk to your skipper. Tell them your preferences, trust their instincts, and let them handle the bookings. You’ll discover a smoother, more enjoyable, and truly local adventure along the Adriatic coast.

How to Communicate Your Expectations Before the Trip Starts

How to Communicate Your Expectations Before the Trip Starts Starting a skippered sailing holiday in Croatia guarantees freedom on the sea, leisure, and discovery. Like any shared experience, though, the success of the trip usually boils down to one main element—effective communication. Your trip will be more seamless and enjoyable—for you and your skipper—the more openly you express your expectations before boarding. Many travellers assume things will naturally fall into place once the trip starts, but early tone-setting and open communication can make all the difference. Here's how to communicate successfully before you ever set foot on the yacht. Starting with the Foundations: Your Preferred Sailing Style No sailing trip is exactly like another. Some imagine a laid-back week with short distances, quiet bay swimming, and long lunches on deck. Others prefer a more active itinerary with sightseeing, island hopping, and longer sails. By sharing your ideal travel vision, your skipper can design a route that truly matches your expectations. It helps to clarify the kind of pace you’d like. Do you prefer slow mornings and spontaneous anchorages, or early starts and full days? Are you looking to explore hidden spots, or visit iconic towns and landmarks? Though personal, these preferences will define your rhythm at sea. Discuss Activities, Values, and Priorities Let your skipper know what matters most to you and your group. Whether it's snorkelling, visiting vineyards, cliff-jumping, exploring historical sites, or simply sunbathing, your skipper can incorporate these into your route and daily schedule. Some guests also enjoy learning basic sailing techniques or helping with docking. If that sounds fun, say so in advance. Conversely, if your main goal is to fully relax without participating in the sailing process, that’s perfectly valid—just be clear about it early on. Clearly State Comfort Levels and Concerns Good pre-trip communication includes discussing anything that could affect comfort or safety. If someone in your group suffers from seasickness, early notice allows the skipper to plan shorter legs and calmer anchorages. Similarly, if anyone has mobility challenges, dietary restrictions, or strong preferences about sun exposure, noise levels, or privacy, these are important to mention ahead of time. The more your skipper knows, the better they can tailor the experience to suit everyone’s needs. Be Honest About Social Preferences Skippers vary in style—some are outgoing and chatty, while others are more reserved. Likewise, guest groups differ in how much interaction they want. If your group values quiet, personal time, it’s completely fine to indicate that early on. On the other hand, if you'd enjoy a more social atmosphere and engaging with the skipper, say so. Many skippers are great conversationalists with rich local knowledge they’re happy to share. Discuss Budget Expectations Openly Even when charter prices are clear, it's still useful to talk about your approach to meals, marina choices, and optional expenses. Let your skipper know if you’re working within a particular budget or plan to cook most meals onboard. Skippers can then recommend appropriate restaurants and anchorages, helping you avoid unexpected costs and stay comfortable with the overall plan. It also helps with provisioning—if you plan to stock up heavily, it’s best to say so from the start. Clarify Roles and Boundaries Although your skipper is responsible for the yacht and navigation, it’s good to align expectations. Will you need help with lines and docking, or do you want the skipper to handle all technical aspects? Do you prefer to be consulted on daily decisions, or are you happy letting the skipper take the lead? Some guests expect full-service support—but unless this is part of a specific arrangement (like hiring a skipper and a hostess), that’s not typically included. Clarity ensures a smoother, more respectful dynamic on board. Put Things in Writing, If Needed If you’re communicating with the skipper via email or message before the trip, feel free to write down your main expectations. It doesn’t need to be formal—just a few notes about routines, dietary needs, or travel style. This gives the skipper a chance to prepare thoughtfully and avoids miscommunication once the trip begins. Final Thoughts: Great Trips Begin with Clear Communication Open, respectful conversation before your sailing trip sets the tone for everything that follows. It helps your skipper plan according to your preferences, and it gives you peace of mind knowing everything is aligned. Once the anchor is up, it’s much easier to relax and enjoy the wind, the sun, and the adventure—when everyone’s on the same page from the very start.

How Skippers Help You Discover Local Secrets You’d Miss on Your Own

There's more to sailing in Croatia than just taking in the Adriatic scenery. It's about discovering the enchantment concealed in remote coves, small island communities, and folktales that have been passed down through the ages. While most tourists visit well-known locations like Hvar or Dubrovnik, those who sail with a professional skipper often experience a completely different, more personal side of Croatia that’s rarely mentioned in travel guides. Skippers as Storytellers and Coastal Ambassadors A skipper is much more than a navigator. They are storytellers, guides, and often unofficial ambassadors of the Croatian coast. Sailing with a skipper doesn’t just mean renting their sailing expertise—it means gaining access to a wealth of local knowledge, cultural insight, and connections that would otherwise take years to develop. Most visitors stick to popular beaches and marinas, but skippers know where the crowds aren’t. Many have sailed these waters for decades and understand when and where to find peace and solitude. Whether it’s a tranquil bay on the southern tip of Vis or a hidden fishing village on Šćedro Island, they know the places that don’t appear on tourist maps or travel apps. Exclusive Moments and Quiet Anchorages By following a skipper’s lead, you’ll often find yourself anchoring in peaceful inlets just as the day-trippers return to port. These quiet moments—swimming alone in crystal-clear waters or watching the sunset behind rugged cliffs—are what make sailing in Croatia feel so intimate and exclusive. Unexpected Culinary Experiences While many tourists stick to the main streets and tourist menus, Croatia’s coastal cuisine offers some of its best surprises. Experienced skippers know exactly where to find authentic food experiences—like a hillside vineyard where the owner pours you wine while sharing stories of his grandfather’s harvest, or a family-run konoba where freshly caught octopus is served straight from the net. Skippers can often arrange these visits in advance, turning a simple meal into a memorable cultural experience. With their insider access, your sailing holiday becomes more than just a getaway—it becomes a culinary adventure. Private Beaches and Secret Natural Wonders Croatia’s Adriatic coast hides some of its most spectacular spots away from the typical sailing routes. A skipper knows which beaches are only accessible by dinghy, which caves glow at sunset, and which anchorages offer the best views come morning. These are places without signs or coordinates. They’re passed down through generations of seafarers and shared among local skippers. Without that knowledge, you might sail past these wonders without ever knowing they existed. Genuine Connections with Coastal Communities Arriving at a marina with a skipper often feels like returning home. Skippers build lasting relationships with harbour masters, tavern owners, and fellow sailors. These connections can lead to friendlier welcomes, better mooring spots, or even spontaneous invitations to local events that most tourists never hear about. Having a skipper is like holding a backstage pass to Croatia’s coastal life—it lets you experience the country in a more genuine, heartfelt way. Flexibility When Plans Change Sometimes the weather shifts or a harbour becomes too crowded. For a self-guided trip, this could be a source of stress. But for a skipper, it's just another opportunity to reroute to an equally rewarding destination. These last-minute changes often lead to unexpected highlights: maybe a stop in a village where time still follows the rhythm of the sea, or a serene night under the stars in an untouched bay. Conclusion: Let a Skipper Reveal the Adriatic's Soul Sailing through Croatia is already a magical experience—but sailing with a skipper transforms it into something truly unforgettable. It’s not just about where you go, but how deeply you experience each place. Skippers don’t just guide your yacht. They open the door to Croatia’s stories, flavours, and hidden gems. If you want your sailing trip to be more than a vacation—to be a collection of unforgettable memories—then sailing with a skipper may be the best decision you make.