Croatia is a country with a rich history and culture; the old towns, monuments, people, and traditions are the ambassadors of its unique history. It also has 10 UNESCO World Heritage sites and 15 sites and monuments on the ‘Tentative’ List. Many of these sites can be visited during a sailing holiday in Croatia. The beauty of Croatia only enhances your sailing experience and it’s no surprise why the Adriatic Coast today is a hotspot for sailing holidays and charter guests in the summer months.
DAY 1. SPLIT - MILNA (BRAČ)
Before you embark on your boat, you should definitely take a walk and explore the Old city of town Split! Located on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea, Split extends on a peninsula and is marked by Marjan hill, the remains of Diocletian’s Palace, the bell tower of Saint Domnius Cathedral, and a vibrant waterfront promenade where Mediterranean vibes thrive. Today the main hub to the central Dalmatian islands and Croatian coastal towns, Split quickly rose to fame as one of Croatia’s most popular tourist destinations.
If you are interested in discovering history and architecture, we suggest you visit:
- The Cathedral of Saint Dominus (patron saint of Split) & Peristyle (central square of the Palace).
- Vestibule and Temple of Jupiter City squares (Prokurative, Pjaca, Voćni trg/Fruit square).
- Meštrović Gallery
- Drink a coffee on Vidilica, with a view of the whole town.
- Take a walk on Riva, the main promenade.
- Blend in with the locals and feel the rhythm of this amazing town!
After the embarkation, sailing toward Milna on the island of Brač.
Milna is a picturesque town on the west coast of Brač island, surrounded by beautiful beaches. It is a typical small island village with Mediterranian charm and atmosphere. Milna itself is in one of the most sheltered coves on the island, making it a favorite for yachters.
DAY 2. MILNA (BRAČ) - PAKLENI ISLANDS - VIS
Leaving Milna on the island of Brač for Pakleni islands near the island of Hvar.
Pakleni islands are a chain of islands approximately 10 kilometers long. They are famous for the crystal blue sea, small beaches, and numerous hidden bays. Enjoy your swimming time on the water toys provided on the yachts. Here you will find your peace of private paradise right in front of a very popular hot-spot destination; island Hvar.
Enjoy lunch and swimming time at Pakleni islands. After that sailing towards the island of Vis.
Vis is the farthest inhabited island off the Croatian mainland and neighbors Korčula to the east and is surrounded by an archipelago of smaller islands, like Biševo (famous for the Blue Cave), and Palagruža. It’s also only 60 miles away from the Italian coast! An island of fishers. A former Yugoslav military base. A famous Hollywood film set. And home to one of the best beaches in Europe. Even these accolades hardly scratch the surface of what Vis has to uncover as one of Croatia’s most exciting islands.
Activities and guided tours we recommend in Vis:
- Blue Cave Tour - natural phenomena of the world.
- Military Tour - a guide will take you all around the island, through the inland and off-road trails to the most hidden Yugoslavian military undermines and the story of the "Forbidden Island".
- Wineries - winemakers have thrived on Vis since the Greeks roamed the island, with Vugava and Plavac being the trademark grapes of Vis. We suggest the unique Lipanović winery, with its cellar housed in a Yugoslav military tunnel.
- Bike Tour - enjoy your bike ride with rapidly changing amazing landscapes, breathe fresh sea air and discover remarkable history points.
- Rent a scooter/Quad - if you are not interested in guided tours, rent a scooter or quad and discover the island on your own!
DAY 3. VIS - LASTOVO
Located 13 kilometers south of Korčula, Lastovo is made up of 46 islands and islets, ss one of the richest and best-preserved botanical areas in the Mediterranean. With a tiny total population of under 800, most of its inhabitants are settled in the island’s largest town - Lastovo. Decorated with dense pines, unusual nature, trademark chimneys, and military history, Lastovo is one of the most captivating islands on the Adriatic Coast.
When in Lastovo we recommend:
- Explore Lastovo’s old town - located under high peaks which form the base of the amphitheatrically shaped settlement. The town consists of medieval family houses full of characters dating from the 15th and 16th centuries. Each house is featured with Lastovo’s famous trademark chimneys known as Fumari.
- Hiking - did you know that Lastovo has over 200 km of marked trails for hikers? The best is the educational trail “Via the present to the past,” which highlights the natural beauties and cultural heritage of Lastovo. For those looking to reach new heights, Lastovo’s highest point is Hum (418 meters). Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the islands.
- Military history -explore the remains of the Yugoslav military bases, like abandoned underground tunnels, military installations, and hideouts!
- Churches - did you know that Lastovo has 38 preserved and ruined churches in total? Or that 21 of them are registered as protected cultural property? Mostly built from the 12th to the 15th centuries, a great way to explore Lastovo’s churches is by walking a trail connecting several churches on the island.
DAY 4. LASTOVO - KORČULA
Korčula is an island with over 20,000 years of history, heavenly white wine, vibrant sword dances, and unequaled beaches. It is an island where tourists can experience the Mediterranean as it once was, without the footsteps of tourists that trample Hvar and Dubrovnik. It is lit up by local life, quaint villages, and fertile fields. It is a fantasy destination for foodies and history buffs. But more than all, it is a sanctuary for sailors.
When in Korčula, we recommend:
- Wine tasting Tour - visit one or more of the various wineries and sample delicious local wines, especially white wines such as Grk, Rukatac, and Pošip.
- Korčula Old Town Tour - learn about history and architecture with a local guide.
- Visit various museums, churches, Marco Polo’s house and St. Mark’s Cathedral.
- Mountain Bike Tour - discover inland and small villages with a professional tour guide.
- Rent a buggy or car - discover new places on your own.
- Listen to Live Music - numerous bars & restaurants offer live performances nightly, from modern covers to traditional Croatian folk music and the beautiful harmony of a local Klapa (a cappella) group.
DAY 5. KORČULA - JELSA (HVAR)
Jelsa is the second largest town on Hvar situated in a bay on the northern coast of the central part of the island of Hvar. It grew from a little fishing and agricultural place to a shipbuilding and maritime center. Jelsa has a coastline with numerous bays where you can find your peace and pleasure.
When in Jelsa we recommend visiting:
- Historical sites - the villae rusticae, remnants of the Roman era, old Jelsa City (Civitas Vetus Ielsae), or any or all of the stunning and centuries-old churches that dot the Jelsa landscape.
- Grapčeva cave - the cave is considered the birthplace of Hvar culture and is one of the oldest prehistorical sites in all of the Mediterranean.
- Perivoj - public garden which used to be a swamp that dried up in the 19th century.
- Greek fortress of Tor - built in the 4th century BC on the remnants of an earlier Illyrian fort.
DAY 6. JELSA (HVAR) - BOL (BRAČ) - HVAR
Picturesque Bol located on the island of Brač is one of the most beautiful destinations of the Adriatic. It is very popular among not only Croatian but also jet-setters from all over the world. It is located just under Mt Vidova Gora, the highest peak of Dalmatian islands, and it is famous for the most attractive Adriatic beach - Zlatni rat or The Golden Point.
Enjoy lunch and swimming time in a crystal blue sea. After that heading to the town of Hvar.
Did you know that Hvar is the only island in the world with six UNESCO heritage protections? Or that Hvar is the birthplace of organized tourism in Europe, dating back to 1868? Or that the first public theater in Europe was born in its best-known town in 1612? Or that it is Croatia’s sunniest island, bringing in 2760 hours or around 115 sunshine days per year? Hvar is undoubtedly the Adriatic’s most popular summer hotspot. This island knows no bounds and has something for all types of travelers, no matter their generation.
What to do in Hvar?
- Walk around and discover the center of the city - St.Stephen Cathedral & Square, Arsenal, Venetian Loggia and Clock Tower.
- Zipp around with a scooter and discover inland of the island,
- Hike up to the fortress Fortica and enjoy beautiful views.
- Dine in authentic surroundings.
- Taste some of the best Croatian wines, for which this island is famous.
For guided tours we recommend:
- Hvar Wine Tasting Tour - don’t miss a chance to try Plavac Mali, which is the most indigenous grape in Dalmatian Region.
- Lavender Tour - includes an expert guide to take you through the aromatic fields, where you will learn the harsh realities of life in Dalmatia before tourism.
- Cycling Tour - combines pleasure and workout to explore the island.
DAY 7. HVAR - TROGIR
A Renaissance, Baroque, Romanesque and Gothic dream that sits on Croatia’s coast, with UNESCO charm and Mediterranean calm. Trogir is a real museum town that abounds in history, artistic masters, and magnificent stone buildings that have survived its turbulent past. Protected by UNESCO in 1997 as Central Europe’s best-preserved Romanesque-Gothic town, Trogir’s cultural and nautical heritage mix to form one of Dalmatia’s most frequented destinations today.
When in Trogir, we recommend:
- Exploring the historic center of the city (St. Lawrence Cathedral, Chapel and Baptistry of St John, City Loggia, Ćipiko palace).
- Coffee and people-watching on the promenade, Trogir’s waterfront promenade, locally known as the Riva, is arguably the best activity.
- See a concert at Kamerlengo, from opera to rock’n’roll, this 15th-century fortress is more than a historical attraction. Kamerlengo sits at the end of the Riva and welcomes tourists to its top to find spectacular views of the waterfront and old town.
- Shop the markets, from the freshest fish and vegetables picked that morning to cured meats and cheeses, homemade olive oil, and honey, there is nothing you can’t find at Trogir’s markets.
DAY 8. TROGIR - SPLIT
Leaving Trogir and sailing towards the city of Split for disembarkation.
Now, all that’s left to do is book a yacht, relax and enjoy. Contact Otium Yachts today and let’s talk about creating YOUR perfect sailing holiday.
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Timing is one of the most important factors when planning a yacht charter. Different periods of the year offer very different experiences, even in the same destination. Summer months tend to be busier, with more activity in ports and popular anchorages, while spring and autumn often feel quieter and more relaxed. Weather, sea conditions, and local events can all influence your time on board. If you have flexibility with your dates, we strongly recommend sharing that with us. It allows us to suggest alternative weeks, for you to discover more private harbors and sometimes secure better options within your budget.Click for more information
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Chartering a yacht gives you freedom, privacy, and the chance to explore coastal destinations at your own pace. You can enjoy hidden bays, local culture, and unique activities that aren’t accessible by traditional travel. With a private crew handling all the details, you can focus on relaxing, swimming, trying water sports, and discovering new towns and beaches every day. Yacht charters are ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking a tailored experience on the water.
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Most yacht charters offer flexible itineraries. While there’s usually a suggested route, you can adjust it based on weather, local events, or your own preferences. Whether you want to spend extra time at a favorite beach, visit a charming town, or explore a quiet cove, your crew can help adapt the plan to make your trip just right.
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Otium Yachts provides expert guidance, a selection of carefully maintained vessels, and professional crews who know the Adriatic coast inside out. From planning your itinerary to organizing activities and ensuring smooth sailing, Otium Yachts makes yacht charters easy, enjoyable, and reliable. Guests appreciate the personal attention, detailed local knowledge, and thoughtful service that make every charter feel special.
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The cost of a yacht charter varies depending on the size of the yacht, the season, the number of guests, and the itinerary. Early summer and peak season tend to be higher, while shoulder months may offer more competitive rates. Longer charters or special requests, such as additional activities or private events, can also affect the price. Booking early and working with an experienced broker can help you find the best options for your budget.Click for more information
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The charter fee generally covers accommodation for all guests, the crew and their expenses, Wi-Fi, use of onboard recreational equipment. Exact inclusions may vary from yacht to yacht, and when you receive a quote, you will be provided with a detailed breakdown of what is included and what is not.
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APA stands for Advance Provisioning Allowance. It’s a deposit, usually around 25-30% of the charter fee, that covers variable expenses during the charter. This includes fuel for the yacht and tender, food and drinks, port and marina fees, national park entrances, water sports, and any extra services requested by the guests. Before the charter begins, the APA is paid upfront, and the captain or crew manages these costs throughout the trip. Any unused funds are refunded at the end, while any extra expenses beyond the allowance are billed separately. This system ensures your charter runs smoothly without surprises and gives guests flexibility to enjoy the full experience on board.Click for more information
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An all-inclusive yacht charter means that, in addition to the yacht and crew, most meals, drinks, and onboard amenities are included in the price. This can cover food, beverages, water toys, Wi-Fi, and some activities, allowing guests to enjoy the trip without worrying about extra costs during the charter. Always check the offer details, as inclusions can vary by yacht and operator.
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The base charter fee usually does not include items such as port or marina fees, national park entrances, shore excursions, special activities like scuba diving or big game fishing, transfers, or APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) for fuel, food, and drinks. Guests may also have charges for extra navigation, special equipment, or additional services requested during the trip.
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To secure your booking with Otium Yachts, the first step is signing the charter agreement and paying the initial deposit. The first instalment, which is 50% of the charter fee, is due at the time of signing. The second instalment, covering the remaining balance along with any selected food and beverage packages, is due 45 days before the charter begins. This process ensures your booking is confirmed and gives our team time to prepare everything for a smooth board experience.
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When booking a yacht, it’s important to know that there are two common types of charter agreements in the Mediterranean: Western Mediterranean Terms (WMT), also known as MYBA Terms, and Eastern Mediterranean Terms (EMT), also known as Gulet Terms. It can seem a bit confusing at first, but here’s a simple breakdown: the type of contract used depends on the yacht owner, who chooses the terms that best suit their vessel and guests. Both options are standard in the industry and provide clear guidelines for what’s included in the charter fee, what costs are extra, and how the trip is managed.Click for more information
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Yacht charters are governed by industry-standard agreements, such as the MYBA Charter Agreement, which clearly defines cancellation policies. One of the most important clauses in this contract is Clause 11, which outlines the financial consequences of canceling a charter.Click for more information
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Planning a luxury yacht charter is an exciting experience, full of anticipation. Many guests book their charters months or even a year in advance, hoping everything will go smoothly when the time arrives. But life can be unpredictable, and unexpected events may force you to cancel or postpone your trip. This is where yacht charter insurance plays a vital role, protecting your investment and ensuring your dream getaway remains secure, no matter what challenges arise.Click for more information
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VAT varies by country because each country sets its own VAT rates and tax rules. Although EU countries follow a common VAT framework, the actual rates and specific conditions differ from one jurisdiction to another. Outside the EU, VAT or similar taxes may not apply at all, or different tax systems may be in place.
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Pack light and focus on casual, comfortable clothing. Essentials include swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and non-slip deck shoes. Evenings are usually relaxed, so a few smart-casual outfits are sufficient. Don’t forget personal toiletries, medications, and travel documents. Soft luggage is recommended, as storage space on board is limited.Click for more information
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A typical day on a yacht is flexible and tailored to your preferences. Mornings often start with breakfast at anchor, followed by swimming or water activities. During the day, the yacht may cruise to a new destination, with lunch on board or ashore. Afternoons are perfect for relaxation, sightseeing, or exploring coastal towns, while evenings are usually spent dining on board or at a local restaurant.Click for more information
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Yes, itineraries are flexible and can usually be adjusted during the charter, weather and operational conditions permitting. Your captain will advise on the best options to ensure safety and comfort while accommodating your preferences as much as possible.
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Absolutely. Yacht charters are ideal for first-time guests, as the professional crew takes care of navigation, safety, and daily operations. The experience is fully guided and can be as relaxed or as active as you wish, making it suitable for all levels of experience.
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Destinations with calm seas, short cruising distances, and well-developed marina infrastructure are ideal for first-time charterers. Popular choices include the Mediterranean, such as Croatia, Greece, Italy and the French Riviera, as well as the Caribbean. These regions offer a wide variety of anchorages, beautiful scenery, and reliable services, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.Click for more information
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For a one-week charter, routes with short sailing times between destinations work best. This allows guests to enjoy a relaxed pace while still visiting several locations. Circular routes or island-hopping itineraries are especially popular, as they minimize long passages and maximize time for swimming, sightseeing, and dining ashore. Popular itineraries include Split, Hvar, Vis, Kor?ula, and Bra?, or Dubrovnik and the nearby Elaphiti Islands. These routes offer a great balance of exploration, relaxation, and time to enjoy each destination.
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A round-trip charter starts and ends at the same port, offering a simple and flexible itinerary. A one-way charter begins in one location and ends in another, allowing you to cover more distance and explore a wider area. One-way charters often involve additional fees for yacht repositioning but provide greater variety in destinations.
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Living onboard a crewed yacht is relaxed and comfortable, much like staying in a floating boutique hotel. The crew takes care of everything, from navigation and safety to meals and daily details, so you can fully unwind. Your days are shaped around your preferences, whether that means exploring new destinations, enjoying the sea, or simply relaxing on deck.
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A yacht charter offers a very high level of privacy. The yacht is exclusively yours, and the crew is trained to be discreet and respectful at all times. While they are always available when needed, they give guests plenty of space to enjoy their time onboard without interruption.
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Yes, dietary requirements can usually be accommodated. Before the charter, guests are asked to share any preferences, allergies, or special diets. The chef will tailor the menu accordingly, whether it’s vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or based on specific preferences. A Guest’s preference sheet is a simple tool we use to ensure your yacht charter is tailored to your group’s needs and desires.Click for more information
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Most crewed yachts come equipped with a selection of water toys and amenities, such as snorkeling gear, paddleboards, seabobs, or jet skis, depending on the yacht. Onboard amenities often include spacious lounging areas, air-conditioned cabins, Wi-Fi, and entertainment systems. The exact selection varies by yacht and will be confirmed before your charter.Click for more information
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Yes, crewed yachts come with a professional and experienced crew. Depending on the size of the yacht, this may include a captain, chef, and additional crew members. They are there to ensure your safety, comfort, and overall enjoyment throughout the charter.Click for more information
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The captain is responsible for navigating the yacht safely, planning the route, and adjusting the itinerary when needed due to weather or sea conditions. They also act as a local expert, offering recommendations for anchorages, beaches, and restaurants, while making sure your charter runs smoothly.Click for more information
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Crew gratuity is customary but always at the guest’s discretion. If you feel the crew has delivered excellent service, tipping is a nice way to show appreciation. The usual guideline is around 10-15% of the charter fee, though any amount is entirely optional.
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Embarkation typically takes place in the afternoon on the first day of the charter, while disembarkation is usually in the morning on the final day. Exact times can vary depending on the yacht and marina, and will be confirmed before your departure.
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Airport transfers are not always included by default, but they can usually be arranged upon request. Your charter broker or crew can help organize smooth transfers to and from the yacht for an additional fee.
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All our yachts come with Wi-Fi onboard, so you can stay connected while enjoying your charter. Coverage is generally good near the coast, though it may be limited in more remote areas or while cruising, depending on local signal strength.
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In case of bad weather, the captain will always prioritize safety. The itinerary may be adjusted, or the yacht may remain in a sheltered bay or marina until conditions improve. These changes are made to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience whenever possible.