Why Croatia Is Best Explored by Yacht

Skip the mega cruise ships packed with thousands of strangers, and instead consider this: a handful of cabins filled with your friends and family, a crew that knows your name (and drink order) by day two, and a boat small enough to slip into coves the big ships can only sail past.

The Islands

Somewhere between clubbing in Hvar and finding where they filmed Mama Mia in Vis, I realized every island was equally beautiful and held something unique to experience. In Korčula, Massimo Cocktail Bar is a must visit for its water views and playful service (the drinks are hoisted up on a pulley system). On Brač consider heading to the beaches, or if you don’t make it that far a wine tasting and charcuterie experience overlooking the ships in Bol. I recommend a mix of structured excursions and free time on the islands. And don’t forget to bring a hat with you during the day, it’s perfectly sunny and there isn’t always shade to hide under.

The Moments A Big Ship Can’t Provide

With private guided tours belonging entirely to our group, every stop felt personal. And because it’s our group, we set the pace and the crew adjusted around us rather than the other way around.

I would be remiss if I didn’t highlight the ship itself. Some of the best moments of my eight-day journey from Split to Dubrovnik weren't on any itinerary at all. They were the quiet mornings on the yacht with coffee in hand, still half asleep, looking out at water so clear it didn't look real. They were our afternoons spent with nowhere to be and nothing to do but jump off the boat. The quiet moments, spent connecting.

This aspect of the trip is customizable as well. Not just the number of swim stops but also the types of water toys you have access to.

Then there was the White Night Captain's Dinner. Somewhere between dessert and stargazing, we ended up jumping straight into the water in our dresses. It's the kind of spontaneous, slightly ridiculous, and completely joyful moment that a trip like this creates.

The cabins on the yacht are smaller than ocean cruises. I only say this, so that you know what to expect. I was perfectly comfortable in mine.

The Value Most People Overlook

Croatia consistently delivers more for less compared to other well-trodden parts of Western Europe. Meals, wine, port fees, and excursions tend to come in below what you'd pay for a comparable experience in Italy, without feeling like you are sacrificing your experience.

For a group of friends planning a reunion, milestone trip, or just an excuse to get everyone together, a yacht changes the entire feel of the vacation.