Sailing along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is a bucket-list experience, but doing it aboard a private luxury yacht takes it to a whole different level. With turquoise waters, sun-drenched islands, historic coastal towns, and secluded bays, the Adriatic offers the perfect backdrop for a decadent adventure.
If you’re wondering where exactly to go on this luxury yacht adventure, then read on to find out some of my favourite Croatian islands and spots along the Dalmatian Coast below.
The Dalmatian Coast
Most luxury yacht journeys begin in Split, Croatia’s vibrant second city. Known for its Roman roots – especially the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace – Split offers a stunning mix of ancient history and modern coastal charm. From its bustling Riva promenade to tucked-away wine bars and artisan shops, Split is the perfect place to explore before boarding a yacht moored in one of the city’s upscale marinas.
With everything taken care of onboard – from check-ins and customs to cocktail service and itinerary planning – yacht guests can slip into relaxation mode from the moment they step aboard.
Trogir for the impressive architecture
Trogir is a charming coastal town on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, known for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture and UNESCO-listed old town. Wander cobbled streets lined with Romanesque and Renaissance buildings, explore the stunning Cathedral of St. Lawrence, and enjoy waterfront dining with views of bobbing boats and Venetian-style facades.
Easily reached from Split, Trogir offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and seaside relaxation – ideal for a day trip or a picturesque stop on a luxury yacht charter Croatia with crew itinerary.
Dubrovnik for the grand finale
Dubrovnik is the natural ending point for a yachting tour of Croatia’s coastline and islands. It’s also one of Europe’s most impressive cities. Arriving by yacht offers a view few tourists get – the medieval walls rising dramatically from the sea.
Visitors to Dubrovnik can enjoy exclusive walking tours, exploring hidden courtyards, filming locations from Game of Thrones, and the iconic Stradun promenade.
The best islands in Croatia
Brač for its beautiful beach
The first island stop is often Brač, famous for its postcard-perfect Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) pebble beach. This ever-shifting spit of land juts into the sea, bordered by emerald pines and perfect for paddleboarding, swimming, or simply relaxing on deck with panoramic views.
Beyond the beach, Brač offers authentic inland experiences – stone villages, local olive oil farms, and the historic town of Pučišća, known for its white limestone architecture. With a private guide arranged by the crew, guests can explore at their own pace and return to a gourmet lunch prepared onboard using locally sourced ingredients.
Hvar for the hidden coves
When it comes to Croatia’s best islands, glamorous Hvar is hard to beat. Known for its glitzy beach clubs, luxury hotels, and lavender fields, Hvar also has a quieter, cultural side to Croatia that many visitors miss.
Rather than docking in the busy marina, private yachts often anchor in secluded bays off the Pakleni Islands, just opposite Hvar Town. Guests can swim in tranquil waters, enjoy champagne on the sundeck, or head ashore by tender for a private walking tour of the 13th-century streets.
Evenings in Hvar can be as lively or as peaceful as desired. Dinner at a clifftop restaurant or a beachside table arranged by the crew offers unforgettable views and fresh seafood caught just hours before.
Relax in sleepy Šolta
Just a short sail from Hvar lies Šolta, a lesser-known island that feels like a secret. With sleepy fishing villages, hidden coves, and olive groves stretching into the hills, Šolta offers a more tranquil experience.
Yacht guests can enjoy kayaking, snorkelling, or a scenic bike ride through the countryside. A stop at a family-run honey farm or a tasting at a boutique winery gives a deeper connection to local culture – without the crowds. It’s the ideal place to unwind and soak up the serene side of island life.
Visit Vis
Further out to sea lies Vis, once a strategic military base closed to foreigners until the 1990s. Today, Vis remains unspoiled, with crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and a charming slow pace.
On Vis you can enjoy quiet harbours, rustic restaurants, and some of Croatia’s best wines. Private tours and tastings can easily be arranged by the crew.
The remote paradise of Lastovo
For those craving true escape, Lastovo is one of Croatia’s most remote inhabited islands – and part of a protected nature park. Thick forests, stone houses with distinctive chimney designs, and complete tranquility make Lastovo a rare gem.
Anchoring in one of its hidden bays, yachting guests can enjoy wild swimming, star-filled skies, and the sense of having an entire island to themselves.
Enjoy the nature in Mljet
A short sail from Lastovo lies Mljet, another national park island famed for its two saltwater lakes and lush vegetation. Visitors can kayak through Veliko Jezero, hike forested trails, or explore the ancient Benedictine monastery set on a tiny islet within the lake.
With bicycles waiting ashore and a gourmet picnic packed by the crew, guests can enjoy a self-paced adventure that ends with a relaxing swim and a return to the yacht for sundowners on the top deck.
Experience the culture of Korčula
Often called a mini Dubrovnik, Korčula blends medieval charm with island elegance. Its fortified old town features winding alleyways, Renaissance churches, and the reputed birthplace of Marco Polo.
Guests can wander through artisan boutiques, take part in a private sword dance demonstration, or sample world-class Pošip and Grk wines at local vineyards. Dinner might be ashore in a romantic sea-view restaurant or an elegant multi-course tasting menu prepared by the onboard chef, paired with Croatian wines handpicked by a local sommelier.
Private yacht charter in Croatia
A private yacht charter through Croatia offers the perfect mix of cultural immersion, island adventure, and carefree indulgence.
Whether it’s watching the sunset from a quiet bay, exploring historic towns with local guides, or sipping wine beneath the stars on deck, Croatia by yacht is travel at its most magical – free from crowds, stress, or schedules.
