Family vacation on a yacht in Dalmatia

As lovers of the sea and adventure, my wife Ana and I had always dreamed of a family vacation on a yacht in Dalmatia, exploring the stunning Adriatic coast under sail. Last summer, we finally turned that dream into reality. Together with our children – Luka (15), Petra (12), and little Ivan (8) – we set off on an unforgettable journey that will stay with us forever. We chose the Bavaria SR 36 from the Adria Yachts fleet, a yacht that offered the perfect blend of comfort, safety, and fun.

Trip preparations

Preparations began several weeks before departure. Adria Yachts provided us with all the necessary information about the yacht, equipment, and possible itineraries. From the very beginning, we felt in safe hands. We received useful advice on routes, weather conditions, and safety measures. They were extremely approachable and answered all our questions.

We packed excitedly, preparing everything we needed – clothes, diving gear, books, board games, and of course, plenty of food and drinks. The kids could hardly wait to set off.

Departure from Trogir

Our adventure began in Trogir, where our Bavaria SR 36 awaited us. When we first saw her, we were thrilled. The yacht was beautiful, spacious, and perfectly equipped. We immediately felt at home.

After a brief introduction to the yacht and a safety briefing, we set sail for our first destination – the island of Šolta. The kids were thrilled as they felt the wind in their hair for the first time while sailing towards the open sea.

Šolta island: A True taste of Dalmatia

On Šolta, we found a peaceful bay where we anchored and enjoyed our first swim in the crystal-clear sea. The kids immediately jumped into the water, exploring the underwater world with masks and fins. Ana and I relaxed on the deck, enjoying the view of the beautiful landscape.

We spent the evening in a relaxed atmosphere, preparing a barbecue on the deck and watching the sunset. The feeling of freedom and connection with nature was priceless.

Hvar: Glamour and history

The next day, we sailed to Hvar, known for its rich history and glamorous nightlife. After anchoring in the port of Hvar, we strolled through the old town and enjoyed local delicacies in one of the many restaurants.

The kids were thrilled to visit the Fortica fortress, which offers a magnificent view of the entire city and the surrounding islands. In the evening, we returned to the yacht and watched the stars from the deck, feeling completely relaxed.

Vis: The hidden gem of the Adriatic

One of the most beautiful parts of our journey was visiting the island of Vis. Here we spent several days exploring secluded bays and enjoying the silence and untouched nature. We also visited the famous Blue Cave on Biševo, which was an incredible experience for the whole family.

At one point, while sailing around Vis, a group of dolphins swam up to us. The kids were overjoyed, and we were breathless in front of this magical sight.

Korčula: In the footsteps of Marco Polo

Our next destination was Korčula, an island rich in history and the birthplace of Marco Polo. We explored the narrow streets of the old town and visited the Marco Polo museum. The kids enjoyed listening to stories about this famous explorer.

One evening, we anchored in a secluded bay and prepared a dinner of freshly caught fish. We enjoyed the meal under the stars, feeling completely connected as a family.

That’s about our journey; this year, we have pledged to return to our host and repeat the trip, but this time towards the Kornati Islands.

FAQ

Q: What is a sailing trip around Dalmatia?

A: A sailing trip around Dalmatia is a sea voyage along the Croatian Adriatic coast, exploring the beautiful islands, hidden coves, historic towns, and crystal-clear waters that define this stunning Mediterranean region.

Q: Why choose Dalmatia for a sailing holiday?

A: Dalmatia offers ideal sailing conditions, a warm climate, breathtaking scenery, and a rich cultural heritage. It’s one of the most popular sailing destinations in Europe, perfect for both experienced sailors and beginners.

Q: How long should a sailing trip around Dalmatia last?

A: Most sailing trips last from 7 to 14 days, but shorter weekend getaways and longer custom itineraries are also available depending on your preferences.

Q: What are the must-see destinations on a Dalmatian sailing trip?

A: Popular stops include Split, Hvar, Vis, Brač, Korčula, Šolta, and the Kornati Islands. Each location offers unique experiences, from ancient architecture to secluded beaches.

Q: Is a sailing trip around Dalmatia family-friendly?

A: Absolutely! Many families choose this type of vacation for quality time together, adventure, and relaxation. Modern yachts offer safety, comfort, and amenities suitable for children.

Q: Do I need a sailing license to charter a yacht in Dalmatia?

A: If you plan to skipper the yacht yourself, you’ll need a valid sailing license and VHF certificate. Otherwise, you can hire a professional skipper to navigate for you.

Q: What type of yacht is best for a Dalmatian sailing trip?

A: That depends on your group size and preferences. Options include sailboats, catamarans, and motor yachts. Models like the Bavaria SR 36 are popular for their comfort, space, and performance.