CROATIA SAIL BOAT CHARTER ITINERARY
The Southern Dalamation Islands of Croatia provide an interesting mix of cruising, with quiet anchorages or bustling towns. Here are some of our preferred cruising destinations, and itineraries can be arranged in this area for either one or two weeks.
Located along one of Montenegro's most beautiful bays is Kotor, a city of traders and famous sailors, with many stories to tell. The Old City of Kotor is a well preserved urbanization typical of the Middle Ages, built between the 12th and 14th century. Medieval architecture and numerous monuments of cultural heritage have made Kotor a UNESCO listed "World Natural and Historical Heritage Site". The bay, sometimes called Europe's southernmost fjord, is in fact a submerged river canyon of the disintegrated Bokelj River which used to run from the high mountain plateaus of Mount Orjen. It is an important tourist attraction in Montenegro. This bay lends itself well to water sports.
Dubrovnik and Lokrum (the small island opposite) are mentioned in the legend of King Richard the Lionheart, who found shelter against the storm on Lokrum on his return from the Crusades in 1192. He made a promise to build a church on the spot where he came ashore, but at the request of the people of Dubrovnik, he arranged to have the church built in the city of Dubrovnik. The city of Dubrovnik is surrounded by 2 kilometres of walls build between the 11th and 17th century. A visit to the city walls is well worth it. Other highlights are the famous main street, Stradun, the Dominican Monastery with its fine collection of Renaissance paintings, and the 15th Century Rector's Palace.
With a wealth of underwater sea life, sandy shoreline, and lush vegetation, Mljet is considered to be one of the most beautiful Croatian islands and is famous for its white and red wine, olives, and goat cheese. Two natural salt lakes - Veliko and Malo Jezero are located at the north end of the island are favorite swimming spots for locals and visitors alike. Located on a small island in the middle of Veliko Jezero lake, lies the isle of St. Mary, an old Benedictine monastery and church from the 12th century.
Korcula is an old fortified town preserved with legends of fairies as the main characters, kept in memory by the local people. One of the loveliest islands in the Adriatic, the old town is surrounded by defensive walls and forts, saturated by cobbled narrow streets, churches and palaces of old aristocrats. Korcula has lots of little side streets and many excellent restaurants. The island is renowned for its wine making. Marco Polo reputedly lived in Korcula and his house is open to the public.
Head east to the Islands of Hvar and Brac. Anchor off some of the numerous inlets and bays and take advantage of all the toys onboard. Hvar is the longest Adriatic island, and holds the record for the number of sunny days per year. There is a lot to say about Hvar. The oldest community theatre in Europe was founded here is 1612, on one of the largest Renaissance squares. There is also a Renaissance cathedral with its original tower, rich treasury and many paintings by old masters. This island is also known for its St. Klements islands (Pakleni Otoci), small, partially wooded islands with sandy beaches. In the pine forest beyond there is a fortress, overlooking an exquisite botanical garden. Although the name means "hell islands" there is nothing menacing about them at all!
Vis is one of the most unexplored islands along the Dalmatian Coast, abound with stunning scenery and ancient stone walled towns. Just west of the island lies Bisevo, which hosts the Blue Grotto - a water logged sea cave located in a small bay called Balun. The best time of day to visit the Blue Grotto is between eleven and twelve in the morning when the sunlight reflects through the water and bathes the grotto in the most fantastic aquamarine light, while the white sandy bottom makes objects in water appear to be silver.
Brac is fantastic for diving and snorkelling. Bol is on Brac's southern coast, and is where Croatia's most famous beach is, the Zlatni rat ('Golden cape'). It's sandy peninsular shifts from side to side as the wind and waves constantly change it's shape. Because it is a promontory composed mostly of pebble rock, it visibly shifts with the tidal movement, a unique sight. The waters here are crystalline, although sometimes cold due to the current it is situated on. There are a number of seaside bars and restaurants.
Trogir, also known as the Town Museum is a beautiful old city with a fascinating 2,300 years of continuous urban tradition. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Trogir is the best-preserved Romaneque-Gothic complex not only in the Adriatic but in all of Central Europe. Trogir's medieval core, surrounded by walls, comprises a preserved castle and tower and a series of dwellings and palaces from the Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque periods. Fascinating history and beautiful architecture coupled with nice markets, fine restaurants and friendly people make Trogir an excellent tourist destination.
Split is the largest town in Dalmatia and has long been an important commercial and transit trade centre. The city grew up round and within the huge palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, Diocletian's Palace is the largest and best preserved late-antique palaces in the world. Thecity has a number of interesting museums and galleries. Note Split has an Airport that will take both private and commercial fl ights and it is 35 minutes from the dock.
