For many travellers, Croatia has quietly become one of the most unforgettable holiday destinations in Europe. Warm turquoise water, historic harbour towns, small island villages and outstanding food combine to make the Adriatic coastline something truly special. But there is one travel experience that stands out above all others: sailing from Split to Dubrovnik by sea.
Instead of moving from hotel to hotel, or rushing between cities by road, this journey allows you to slow down and explore Croatia the way it was always meant to be experienced — from the water, just as locals have for centuries.
Why This Route Is So Loved
The stretch of coastline between Split and Dubrovnik is dotted with islands, bays and stone-built port towns that feel lifted from another era. Yet it’s all connected by short, sheltered sailing passages. That means you can travel at a relaxed pace, stopping wherever the mood takes you — a swimming cove here, a vineyard lunch there, an evening wandering medieval streets.
Unlike other sailing destinations, you don’t need to spend long hours offshore. Most “hops” between islands are just one to two hours, making the journey enjoyable for beginners, families and anyone who simply wants a calm, scenic holiday.
Key Stops Along the Way
Hvar
Known for golden-stone architecture, lavender fields and waterfront cafés, Hvar Town is lively yet stylish. Outside the harbour, the Pakleni Islands offer quiet swimming bays that feel like a secret escape.
Vis
A world apart. Once used by the Yugoslav navy and closed to visitors for decades, Vis has remained untouched, authentic and deeply atmospheric. It’s where travellers slow down, swim in deep-blue coves and eat seafood metres from the sea.
Korčula
A miniature Dubrovnik with medieval walls, alleyways and terracotta rooftops. The surrounding island countryside is full of family-run wineries producing crisp white wines, perfect for sunset tastings.
Mljet National Park
Green, peaceful and nature-focused. Many travellers say Mljet is where they finally “switch off”. It’s ideal for walking, swimming and simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the Adriatic.
Then finally — Dubrovnik
A masterpiece of stone walls rising from the sea. Seen from the water, its impact is unforgettable.
No Sailing Experience Required
One of the biggest surprises for many travellers is how accessible this route is. You don’t need to know how to sail. Many guests book a skippered charter, meaning a friendly local captain handles the sailing while you enjoy the journey.
The skipper also knows:
- Which bays are calmest in the evening
- Which small restaurants are worth a detour
- How to avoid crowded marinas
- The best times to visit each island
This local knowledge is what turns a good trip into a trip you talk about for years.
When to Go
The best months are:
- May & June – warm, quiet, perfect swimming
- September & October – golden light, warm sea, relaxed towns
July and August are beautiful too, just busier.
Why Sailing Feels Different to a Traditional Holiday
You’re not just seeing landscapes — you’re living them.
Morning swims before breakfast.
Lunch anchored in a hidden cove.
Afternoons strolling harbours where fishermen mend nets.
Evenings of grilled fish, local wine and slow conversation.
It offers something many holidays struggle to deliver these days:
real simplicity, real calm, real connection.
How to Plan the Trip
The easiest starting point is to look at available boats and routes. Whether you prefer a modern sailing yacht or a spacious catamaran, the planning process begins with one decision:
Where do you want to go, and at what pace?
A helpful place to start is here:
yacht charter Croatia
This gives an overview of route ideas, types of yachts available, and options for sailing with or without a skipper.
Once you’ve chosen your dates and travel style, the rest becomes surprisingly simple. Flights to Split and Dubrovnik are well connected from UK airports, and transfers to the marina take only a short time.
Final Thought
Croatia is one of those rare places where the journey itself becomes the highlight of the holiday. Sailing from Split to Dubrovnik isn’t just travel — it’s a gentle rhythm of sea, sun, food, exploration and moments of quiet joy.
If you’re looking for a holiday that feels refreshing, beautiful and genuinely meaningful, you may not need to look any further than the Adriatic.