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Food for fort

By Emily Mathieson

The derelict military outpost of Fort George on the sleepy island of Vis , Croatia , has been hosting impromptu parties for a few years as part of the now legendary Yacht Week - flotillas in the Med and Caribbean for debauched gap-yah types.

But the crumbling fort has just got a permanent spruce-up as the duo behind Yacht Week, boat-loving Swedes Erik Biörklund and William Wenkel, are launching a new, more grown-up project.

From this month, a restaurant, bar (serving Croatian wines) and gallery inside the old garrison will provide the backdrop for a roster of bands and DJs - just in time to welcome the first customers on Yachts and Friends, the team's new charter company.

www.fortgeorgecroatia.com

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How to book Yacht Week

By Ella Thorogood

Posted on 24th August 2023

Want to join the floating festi-fun; get in on the adventures, the craziness, the revelry at sea? But not quite sure how… Here’s a quick guide to how to book Yacht Week. Go on, you deserve it.

This year we have introduced brand new categories for both yachts and cabins to make booking your week at sea that much easier. Feel like you know nothing about yachts? Fear not. Just choose between our Classic and Premium categories and we’ll do the rest. Embrace spontaneity and enjoy the fruits of our labor.

Or if you know exactly what you want then that’s alright too as you can book a Custom Yacht and make your week exactly what you want. Keep on scrollin’ to find out what you get for each package.

Classic Monohull

For the crews wanting a hassle free sail on a budget. The classic category is a great option for first-timers on Yacht Week. You’ll get a great value experience with everything that you’ll need for your week at sea. With a fully equipped kitchen, you’ll be able to cook up a storm for you and your sea buddies. Plus a sound system for pumping out your fave summer tunes.

• A yacht from 2013 or newer
• 44ft or longer
• 4 cabins (10 capacity)
• 2+ bathrooms
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Towels & bed linen
• On board Speakers

Full yacht - option to add a host, but a full cabin must be reserved which reduces the capacity by 2.

8 guests max without a host.  

Cabin yacht - doesn't include host or food, 8 guests max.

Available in: Croatia Original, Croatia Ultra and Greece .

Premium Monohull

For the savvy sailors who want to level up with one of these seriously stylish yachts. Perfect for those who want to truly experience what sailing is all about, enjoying the rush that #yachtlife can bring. Sit back and relax as you’ll also have your very own host to cook you some top-notch meals aboard your yacht so all you have to do is enjoy your holiday… hard life, ay.

• 2015 or newer
• 51ft or longer
• 5 guest cabins - 4 doubles, one bunk (12 capacity), one skipper cabin.
• 3+ bathrooms
• Air conditioning

Full yacht - option to add a host, but a full cabin must be reserved which reduces the capacity by 2. 10 guests max without a host.  

Cabin yacht - includes host and food, 8 guests max.

Availability: Croatia Original, Croatia, Ultra and Greece.

Classic Catamaran

If you and your crew are fortunate enough to have a big holiday budget then it goes without saying that you should book a completely outrageous yacht fit for royalty. Make your friends at home pea green with envy as you fill your Instagram with endless shots of you lazing on a yacht in the sunshine. Perks include a stunning catamaran and multiple sunbathing spots.

• 2017 or newer
• 39ft or longer
• 4 cabins (12 capacity)

Full yacht - option to add host, 10 guests max.

Cabin - Include host and food, 8 guests max.

Availability: Croatia Original, Croatia Ultra and Greece.

Premium Catamaran

If you and your crew are fortunate enough to have a big holiday budget then it goes without saying that you should book a completely outrageous yacht fit for royalty. Make your friends at home pea green with envy as you fill your Instagram with endless shots of you lazing on a yacht in the sunshine. Perks include a stunning catamaran, guaranteed air-conditioning and multiple sunbathing spots.

• 2018 or newer
• 42ft or longer
• 4+ bathrooms

Cabin - includes host and food, 8 guests max.

Custom Yacht

If you’re a yacht enthusiast or have done a Yacht Week before then you probably know the exact yacht you want. No stress, the Custom Yacht is what you need. You can pick the specific yacht, add any of the optional extras and really make your experience exactly what you want it to be. Pick your dream floating home for the week and sail in style.

• Monohulls and Catamarans
• Full yacht bookings only
• 38 to 62 ft
• 2012 or newer
• Air conditioning on some yachts
• Optional Host
• 4 to 6 guest cabins
• sleeps 8 to 12 guests

Price: Price varies depending on selection

Availability: All destinations .

Join us for the week of your life and find out why life is better at sea. Book now!

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Croatia sailing holidays: guide for first timers

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 16.05.2022

Given that Croatia's idyllic Adriatic coast offers over 200km of azure waters speckled with more than 1000 islands, it'll come as no surprise that it's one of Europe’s most popular sailing destinations .

Where to go on Croatia sailing holidays and for how long

When to go on croatia sailing holidays, how to find a yacht in croatia, what to expect on board your yacht, should you sign up for yacht week in croatia, what to do before and after your sailing holiday.

Beautiful bays backed by sleek resorts; lush olive groves rising over ancient fishing villages; sheltered harbours, and scatterings of Roman ruins — these Adriatic attractions were among the reasons you voted Croatia one of the  most beautiful countries in the world .

Adapted from The Rough Guide to Croatia , read on for an insider's guide to enjoying your first sailing holiday in Croatia.

Travel ideas for Croatia, created by local experts

16 days  / from 5341 USD

Gorgeous gems of Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia

From the spas of Budapest to Lake Bled with its castle and further on to Croatia - this itinerary takes you across 3 countries, with a special focus on Slovenia's lake area and the Dalmatian coast in Croatia.

10 days  / from 2800 USD

Sailing Croatia

If you want to experience the Dalmatian coast from a whole different perspective, then this trip is for you! Hop aboard a beautiful cruiser and sail along some of Croatia's most stunning islands.

10 days  / from 2349 USD

Southern Pearls

This ten-day trip will take you around three adjacent countries, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Your tour starts in Split, Croatia, moving south (hence the name "Southern Pearls") over the island of Hvar and Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina to end up in Montenegro.

The southern Dalmatian islands are ideal for first-time sailing holidays. Most routes here involve round trips from Split or Dubrovnik , so you'll need at least a week. In fact, it's advisable to allow at least eight days for a one-way trip from Split to Dubrovnik (or vice versa).

Not sure where to start? Read our feature on Split or Dubrovnik - where to go first? Alternatively, take all the hassle out of planning by booking a tailor-made Dalmatia sailing trip .

Dubovica, Hvar, Croatia © Shutterstock

As for which islands to focus on, here's a run-down of what to expect from some of the country's finest during your Croatia sailing holidays. You might also want to dive into our overview of top Croatian island getaways .

Sail to: Hvar Island

Boasting plenty of secluded coves you won’t have to share, stylish bars, a glamorous marina, and exceptional island-produced wine and olives, there’s a reason Hvar has been crowned Queen of the Dalmatian Islands.

Hvar’s food scene is outstanding, from fresh seafood and exquisite cheeses to pasta dishes that give Italy a run for its money. Into food? Find out more about eating and drinking in Croatia , and discover Croatia's top foodie experiences .

While Hvar is the perfect sailing stop-off for foodie couples, the island is also great for families, with safe bays to swim in, and affordable accommodation options alongside all the luxury villas.

If you're into history, you're in luck, too — Hvar's Stari Grad Plain and Start Grad historic centre are UNESCO World Heritage sites, while Hvar Town is a medieval charmer. Think winding pedestrianized alleys overlooked by stone houses — the perfect backdrop to al fresco eating experiences.

Where to stay: explore apartments and hotels in handsome Hvar .

Hvar Harbour — a stunning spot to stop off in during Croatia sailing holidays © Ikonya/Shutterstock

Sail to: Brač Island

One of Brač's beauties is that it can deliver the bliss of a back-to-nature break alongside the liveliness of local bars. That said. even at it's liveliest, Brač — Croatia's third-largest island — retains a laidback vibe.

Supetar, the island's largest town, is an attractive former fishing village with shallow pebbly beaches. With a modest Old Town around its curved harbour, Supetar oozes understated elegance.

On the opposite side of the island, Bol boasts spectacular Zlatni rat beach, with a mild-breeze climate that makes it a top spot for windsurfing. Zlatni rat also earned a spot in our overview of the best beaches in Croatia , along with Lovrečina Bay.

Meanwhile, Brač's interior isn't short of beauty, either. Scrub-covered karst uplands are dotted with fertile depressions of vines, olive groves and orange trees that provide an idyillic backdrop for romantic walks.

Talking of which, if you're in the mood for love — and maybe a spot of hedonism — Hvar features in our round-up of Croatia's best honeymoon destinations .

Where to stay: from luxury villas, to gorgeous guest houses, take a look at Brač's accommodation bounties .

A bar in Bol, Brač, Croatia — not a bad place to relax during Croatian sailing holidays © Shutterstock

Sail to: Šolta

One of Croatia's more secluded and sleepy islands , Šolta might be close to Split, but it remains off most tourist maps. It's a place to unwind while enjoying walks and cycling trips at your own pace.

The village of Stomorska has limited moorings for visiting boats, while the picturesque harbour of Maslinica offers a satisfying mix of unspoiled village and yachting chic, making it Šolta's best-kept secret.

To explore lesser-travelled trails, you'll want to take to Šolta's unspoiled interior, where tiny, ancient villages of stone houses speckle the hilly landscape.

After docking in Rogac, follow a steep hill to Grohote, the island's largest settlement, where a maze of stone alleys, secret courtyards and medieval charm awaits.

Where to stay : though secluded, Šolta isn't short of a range of stunning places to stay .

Kayaking Croatia's Adriatic sea © Shutterstock

Sail to: Sveti Klement Island

Car-free Sveti Klement is the largest of Croatia's wooded Pakleni Islands. Fun fact — these islands are often known as Hell's Islands as a result of pakao being the Croatian word for hell. But in actual fact, the name comes from a kind of pine resin — paklina — that used to be harvested here. And it has to be said that these islands are more heaven than hell.

Located to the south of Hvar, and easily reached from Hvar Town — in fact, you can see it from town — Sveti Klement has just three sleepy settlements on its 5 sq km.

Set on a beautiful horseshoe bay, Palmižana boasts a bustling marina, restaurants and a bijou sandy beach.

Where to stay: chances are, you'll visit Sveti Klement on a day trip, so check out hotels in Hvar .

Hvar's old harbour is a stunning base from which to visit Sveti Klement © Shutterstock

Sail to: Vis Island

The furthest flung of the Southern Dalmatian Islands, Vis was cut off from tourists until the early 1990s due to military activity, which means it's unsullied by over-tourism, and famously unspoiled.

Vis is something of a magnet for independent travellers and foodies. The surrounding waters offer up some of the Adriatic’s finest fish and lobster. The island even has its own fast-food, pogača od srdele , an anchovy pasty and local bakery staple.

Home to the magnificent Blue Cave , you'll want to visit Vis in summer when sunlight bathes its interior in aquamarine light.

Where to stay: take your pick from elegant apartments and villas on Vis .

Vis is renowned for its seadfood, like this tasty squid dish © Shutterstock

Sail to: Korčula Island

With soft sand bays and quiet coves on its southern coast, Korčula is a great place for travellers with kids to stop-off on during Croatian sailing holidays — the Adriatic here is especially clear and calm.

With plenty to satisfy history buffs, beach-lovers and foodies, the medieval walled city of Korčula Town preserves a beauty that has few equals in the Adriatic. It has a magnificently atmospheric centre, lovely out-of-town-beaches, and a clutch of excellent restaurants and bakeries.

Cloaked in vineyards, olive groves and Aleppo pines, Korčula is also one of the greenest Adriatic islands. Thanks to its soil and climate, Korčula is famed for its dry whites. Grk, for example, only grows in Lumbarda, while Pošip, cultivated around Smokvica and Čara, is more widespread, but just as tasty.

On the subject of food, alongside serving top-notch seafood, Korčula excels in lamb and goat, which tend be be served goulash-style with  Žrnovski makaruni , a succulent, hand-rolled, cigar-shaped local pasta. 

Where to stay: explore Korčula's family-friendly hotels and quaint accommodation options .

Proizd Island beach near Korcula, Croatia © eldar nurkovic/Shutterstock

Sail to: Mljet Island

One of the largest Southern Dalmatian Islands, verdant Mljet is popular as a day trip from Dubrovnik, especially with nature-lovers who are drawn to Mljet National Park.

Unspoiled and serene, Mljet really does justify a longer stay, with stunning nature walks, quiet bays, beautiful lakes, and awe-inspiring quaint places to stay offering jaw-dropping views of forests and sea. Adding to Mljet's romantic aura, legend has it Odysseus and Calypso holed up here for seven years.

Mljet is also known for its white and red wines, olives, and goat's cheese, all of which can be gorged on in the island's main settlement, Pomena.

Where to stay: these Mljet accommodation options come with magnificent views.

Majestic Mljet Island, Croatia © Simun Ascic/Shutterstock

High summer in Croatia is busy, but the weather’s glorious. Expect averages of 26–27°C in July and August, with similar sea temperatures. All of which means you can experience excellent snorkelling and swimming in the clear, balmy Adriatic.

Croatia's sailing season runs from May to the end of September, and it's worth being mindful of these dates. Temperatures drop to 15°C in October and many businesses shut up shop for the year in autumn. So, if you're tempted by start or end of season deals, you might not get the Croatian sailing holiday you envisaged.

Find out more about when to go to Croatia .

Swimming in shallow waters is fun on Croatia sailing holidays © Eleanor Aldridge

For first time sailing holidays in Croatia, it’s a good idea to book a skippered yacht. You’ll learn sailing skills while also having the freedom to relax and enjoy the experience.

Expert local skippers really are invaluable on first time sailing holidays. They’re able to recommend routes and adjust them in response to weather changes. What's more, they'll also know the top swimming spots, attractions, restaurants and islands to visit. You could also consider booking someone to take care of cooking and cleaning.

More experienced sailors can opt for a “bareboat” Croatia sailing charter. While requirements for these vary between operators, you will need full certification, such as the ICC (International Certificate of Competence).

Summer sailing in Croatia almost always means great sunsets © Eleanor Aldridge

Not all yachts in Croatia are the same. They vary from cosy set-ups to floating paradigms of luxury. With most companies offering a range of different boats, see what’s available from your chosen operator, and always be realistic about expectations of space and facilities.

At the lower end, you’ll find older, smaller boats, with cramped cabins and shared bathrooms, while modern, high-end catamarans offer an entirely different experience. Often fitted with plush furnishings and en-suites, you'll also enjoy more extensive deck space.

Meanwhile, solo travellers booking a group trip with budget operator may have to share a cabin, or even a double bed. If you are travelling alone, read our tips for surviving solo travel .

Croatia sailing holidays mix sea, beach, forest and mountains © Eleanor Aldridge

Related articles from the blog

You might have seen the glamorous promos for Croatia's Yacht Week . But beware — while this mega flotilla trip for moneyed 20-somethings promises the party of a lifetime, it’s far from sustainable, and doesn’t reflect Croatian culture.

In fact, local sailors have voiced safety concerns about inexperienced Yacht Week skippers. In the past, some towns have even refused moorings to the boozy crowds.

Sea-based experiences aside, Croatia has something for everyone — from outdoor adventuring, to uncovering history. So, you'd do well to take a few days to explore some of the country either side of your Croatian sailing holiday. Here are a few ideas:

Explore Croatia's capital, Zagreb

Somewhat off most visitor's radars, Zagreb has always been a more arty, quirky and creative place than its tourist-deluged cousins on Croatia’s coast. Home to a thriving alternative music scene and eccentric bars, it's a city that never sleeps, with tonnes of clubs, and a burgeoning food scene.

Captial of Croatia since 1991, find out why Zagreb is also Croatia's capital of cool .

Zagreb's National Theatre © Shutterstock

Discover Dubrovnik Old Town

Backed by rugged mountains, and jutting into the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is one of the world’s best-preserved medieval cities. Its atmospheric Old Town presents itself as a maze of pretty passages, with plenty of boutiques and world-class restaurants. 

If that's sparked your interest in visiting, read up on things to do in Dubrovnik . In the mood for love? The city is one of our best honeymoon destinations in Croatia . In addition, our experts hailed it one of the best places on earth for 2022 .

Game of Thrones fans might want to find out how to enjoy a real Game of Thrones adventure in Dubrovnik , while hardcore aficionados could consider taking a Game of Thrones trip .

The red roofs of Dubrovnik's Old Town © Shutterstock

Hike the remarkable Plitvice Lakes

For outdoor action, it doesn’t get better than  Plitvice Lakes National Park , a forested Eden of deep blue lakes and rushing, romantic waterfalls. 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts twelve hiking trails through pristine landscapes, plus there's a fantastic network of bike trails on its northern edge.

If all that talk of the great outdoors has got you thinking about switching from a sailing hoilday, you'll find inspiration in our customisable ultimate adventure trip around Croatia .

Plitvice is a paradise of lakes and waterfalls © Shutterstock

You will find some useful tips for travelling in Croatia in our practical guide to island-hopping in Croatia .

Ready to take the plunge for your first Croatian sailing holiday? If you'd prefer to spend more time enjoying it than planning, take a look at our fully-customisable tailor-made Dalmatia sailing trip .

Prefer to go it alone? Arm yourself with The Rough Guide to Croatia and read our run-down of the best places to visit and best things to do in Croatia .

Looking for practical tips? Find out more about getting to Croatia , and getting around once you're there.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

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Yacht Week: A Beginner’s Guide 

Table of Contents

Last Updated on January 18, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

If you could sail, swim, and celebrate on repeat each day for a week until you’re happily exhausted, you’d do it, wouldn’t you? Well, boating has just the event for that: Yacht Week. Haven’t heard of it? Here’s a Yacht Week Beginner’s Guide : 

Rent. Charter. Share— only at Boatsetter 

First, what is Yacht Week? 

If you’ve never heard of The Yacht Week , it’s called the original floating festival. You stay aboard a skippered boat with a bunch of your friends, cruising alongside other like-minded travelers. 

A skippered boat is a boat with someone who is in command of it, more or less equal to a captain! This gives your crew opportunities to focus on the fun and potentially learn boating from an experienced guide. 

Options exist for per- cabin bookings, too. Regardless, for seven days, you explore convoy-style, visiting picture-perfect destinations like Croatia, Turkey, Tahiti, and the British Virgin Islands. While you have the freedom to follow your own itinerary, you get your skipper’s first-hand knowledge of where to go and what to do. 

You can dine onboard or ashore , soak up the sun on secluded beaches, and of course, swim. Come at nighttime, and join your fellow adventurers at organized parties on the beach and in clubs. Or, simply star gaze on deck before drifting off to sleep.

Yacht Week’s brief history

The Yacht Week got its start nearly two decades ago. Directors and founders Eric Biorklund and William Wenckel worked for the same company as charter-boat captains in Europe when inspiration struck. A two-week period in Greece was so much fun that they became fast friends with their guests. Figuring they could replicate the success, they reserved 10 yachts for traveling together for a subsequent summer in anticipation of attracting 100 guests. It worked. They then added another five yachts to that total, which also filled up. Guests had so much fun, in fact, that they requested Biorklund and Wenckel arrange more trips. Soon the duo had more cruisers than staterooms available. So, they turned it into a dedicated business, and The Yacht Week was born.

With another business partner onboard, Biorklund and Wenckel set their sights on growing The Yacht Week internationally. That, too, worked. The company went from booking 30 boats in 2006 to more than 1,300 within a decade. 

Experiences you’ve never had before 

( Image Source )

The Yacht Week is more than just skippered boats; the goal is to provide you with experiences you’ve never had before! For example, if you’re into techno, house music, and similar styles, the Croatia Ultra Route dates in July coincide with the Ultra Europe EDM festival. Pro Tip: Your yacht package includes VIP tickets. 

While music is a big part of The Yacht Week—and cruising in general—other itineraries are more about the destinations and camaraderie. 

From May through September, for instance, trips depart from Athens, Greece, and head to a number of islands. To ensure you get to know your fellow cruisers, a raft-up (anchoring your boat side by side) kicks off the first day. 

Each day for the rest of the week, you can explore ancient sites and towns with guides on foot or drive an ATV through the countryside. Fun costume parties, White Parties (where you wear all white), and more occur each day, too. 

To cap off the summer in style, book one of two available weeks (at presstime) in Turkey in September. You’ll enjoy the country’s famed Turquoise Coast, along its southwestern shore, starting out in Fethiye. When you go sightseeing, don’t miss the chance to partake in a Turkish bath. You’ll emerge with your skin feeling invigorated and an amazing story to share.

Pro Tip: Speaking of sharing, you’ll be sharing picture after picture on social media with your friends and family back home. The Yacht Week also has professional photographers and videographers on hand during each itinerary to ensure the best moments get captured. 

Get a feel for boating 

If you’re curious about how the boat operates, feel free to ask questions. Captains love sharing their knowledge and passion, so you can take a turn at the wheel as well. Plenty of cruisers become friends, too, with their fellow passengers, planning future cruises upon returning home. That’s what ultimately makes The Yacht Week a week to remember for a lifetime. 

About Boatsetter 

Boatsetter is a unique boat-sharing platform that gives everyone — whether you own a boat or you’re just renting — the chance to experience life on the water. You can list a boat , book a boat , or make money as a captain . 

Put your boat to work— Start earning an avg. of $20K yearly with Boatsetter

Images sourced from Yachtweek.com

A journalist with more than 30 years’ experience, Diane M. Byrne is the owner of MegayachtNews.com, a daily website educating American superyacht owners, buyers, and their circles of influence about the leading builders, designers, cruising destinations, and more. She founded the website in 2007 as the first, and still the only, American-focused online media outlet exclusively covering this market. It features all-original content, for real stories of real interest.

Diane is additionally one of the most-sought-after journalists for expert editorial coverage and commentary about not only superyachts, but also general boating and yachting. Her byline appears in Boatsetter.com, DiscoverBoating.com, and the magazines Luxury Guide, Ocean, Yachting, and Yachts International.

Additionally, Diane is the Chair of the U.S. Superyacht Association, having been on the Board of Directors since 2015. Outside of yachting, she’s a trustee of Sempre Avanti, a non-profit resource supporting Italian and Italian-American individuals, businesses, and organizations in the United States and Italy.

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Yacht Week is Sodom and Gomorrah at sea

By Stuart McGurk

Here's a random list of things you can expect to occur on Yacht Week, the sailing holiday popular with the world's moneyed youth, and described in the Croatian national press as "Sodom and Gomorrah at sea".

You will watch someone almost fall off a boat, drunk, into the sea, but recover at the last minute. You will watch someone not recover at the last minute and fall off a boat, drunk, into the sea. You will see rich men throwing themselves into the water, before realising their money is still in their pockets, and hurriedly doggy-paddling after hundreds of dollars slowly escaping in the tide. You'll see drinking games, champagne showers, stripping, island rampages, selfie sticks held up like glow sticks, spirit bottles worth hundreds of dollars delivered on silver service with fireworks strapped to the necks, and people spending the average year's salary just by slurring the word "again!" You may see - as I did - more than 40 people scramble onto a yacht meant for six for an impromptu all-night boat party, which, after a certain amount of vodka, feels more like a real-life game of Screwball Scramble. You may see - as I did - an Australian girl so drunk she keeps kissing two men on the same night under the impression they are the same person, and not understanding why this person is getting so upset, and in different voices.

Nearly everyone is beautiful, single, uninhibited, and bottle-service wealthy. Several have been on reality-TV shows. It is the only holiday you can go on, I discover, that includes two staff photographers taking pictures of everything you, the hard-partying customer, get up to at all times.

I joined the Yacht Week for its "black route" - one that sails around the exclusive islands of Croatia, on the Adriatic - to see just why it's become such a phenomenon. The idea, after all, is fairly straightforward. You join an armada of yachts - up to 50 on any one route - after selecting your yacht-mates, booking a skipper, and even arranging an on-board chef if your budget will stretch that far (nearly all do). While on board, you drink and eat and sunbathe, and then party at every island you dock at, mostly at special Yacht Week events. It's Club 18-30, essentially, for people far too rich and glamorous to go on Club 18-30 holidays. The bigger Yacht Week has become (it started in 2008, and now has 45 routes across six countries, mostly in Europe, with plans to expand into South America and beyond) the more controversial it has been. The island of Hvar on this week's route, for instance, has increasingly become known as the new Saint-Tropez, with the mega-yachts lining its harbour belonging to everyone from Roman Abramovich and Bill Gates to Beyoncé and Tom Cruise.

Perhaps understandably, residents and guests haven't been too keen on "Hvarday", when the Yacht Week horde descends for perhaps the most raucous parties of the week (the notorious afternoon party scheduled at Carpe Diem bar sees champagne bottles worth hundreds of dollars sprayed like fire extinguishers). Just a few hours of "Hvarday" are said to be worth around £40,000 for the owners. The Hvar town council has repeatedly voted for Yacht Week's banishment, citing noise and drunken abuse; some claimed people were vomiting into the water and passing out drunk on the boardwalk. The diners next door at Gariful, Hvar's most exclusive fish restaurant, one of

Giorgio Armani 's favourite haunts, were said to be less than impressed. Yet, each time, Hvar's mayor has reached a compromise with Yacht Week's founders. And so, as with every year since it began in 2008, Yacht Week sails again.

At the marina, a short drive from Split airport, I meet our skipper for the week, Sebastian, a fastidious Spaniard almost certainly given to us to show how serious about safety they are, and who chides every error (you're required to help out when docking) like a father telling his son not to murder any more prostitutes ("It can never happen again"). The other members of HMS GQ are Charlotte, an easygoing Dane who will be our chef for the week, and the GQ photographer Rebecca. We are not the typical crew. Even the smallest yachts, like ours, sleep six - making ours the only boat not at capacity.

Part of Yacht Week's appeal, it turns out, comes with selecting your boat mates. Each yacht is required to be a strict 50-50 split in gender. The majority of people I spoke to found their remaining shipmates via the "CrewFinder" section on the website, which is essentially Yacht Week's version of Tinder, and which mostly sees men advertising the remaining female spaces on a yacht they've reserved. "We are calling our boat Noah's Ark cause it is going to be filled with Animals!!!" reads a typical ad. "Looking for 4 more beer-chugging, shot-taking, pirate-costume-wearing, no f***s about what anybody is caring girls to join in the mayhem!"

Nearly all the men list their Instagram accounts for the girls to check out.

By Adam Cheung

By Emily Laurence

"It's like The Real World! " a Californian blonde named Amy explains to me, referring to the American reality-TV show, but also, one presumes, the real world.

Many go purely on emails and images. Only one girl I met on my week - Cayla, a 29-year-old American teacher - took the precaution of travelling to New York to size up their potential male shipmates before she and her cousin took the plunge. "We ended up having a really boozy lunch - it was great!"

Cayla, who like nearly all on Yacht Week is single, rules out sex with her boat mates, "but we totally support bringing other people back to the boat and getting the job done."

Being a skipper on Yacht Week also has its difficulties, Sebastian informs me as we set sail. A fortnight ago, he had eleven Spaniards who barely slept, and he recalls the experience much like the sole survivor of an ethnic cleansing. Brazilian men, most skippers agree, are the worst (many mistreat female staff; a recent group got kicked off their boat for doing coke on deck).

Australians, the loudest. Americans, the most dressed in their own flag.

Skippers have an ongoing game called "Worst Question At The Worst Time". Favourites include: requesting a fry-up in a storm (oil is not your friend), trying to chat up a skipper while he's navigating a tricky mooring (most skippers are men), and having sex while you're supposed to help downing anchor.

After only a few hours, we arrive at Milna on the island of Brac, and I come across some guys from a mostly Dutch boat drinking with their skipper, an American man known as Cowboy Carl on account of the fact no one has seen him without his trademark cowboy hat for more than a year ("I did see him without it once," Sebastian tells me, "but I didn't recognise him").

It's around 6pm, but they already look very drunk. "They started with two bottles of vodka," says Cowboy Carl, almost misty-eyed. "And they've nearly finished them!" He hugs them. "My boys!" Carl has done 48 Yacht Week runs, and his ambition is to get to 52 to make a full year.

The opening night of Yacht Week is fairly tame, and so simply consists of a welcome open-air party in the relics of an old building involving pole dancers, light shows, vodka shots and some mild grinding. It's on this night I meet Tribble Reese. Reese is a child's idea of an American male as drawn hurriedly in crayon. He is a huge man with a jutting jaw, perfect teeth, blond hair that points to the sky, piercing eyes that would be devastating if not for the fact they're slightly too close-set, and has the nervous gregariousness of a man who has high-fived during sex. A former high-school quarterback from Atlanta, Georgia, who never quite made the grade to go pro, Reese is semi-famous in America for being the star of a reality TV dating show called Sweet Home Alabama . He was named South Carolina's Most Eligible Bachelor by Cosmopolitan in 2008.

At 29, however, he remains a bachelor, which is why he is at Yacht Week. He's out, he says, to have the experience of a lifetime - and rack up the numbers. "Nobody knows about this in the States," he tells me, excitedly, if not exactly accurately (there are more Americans here than any other nationality). "It's like the Bahamas on steroids!" Currently, Reese is most agitated by the female attention the skippers are getting. "So now I just want to be a skipper. They get laid like crazy." (The skippers, it should be said, deny this, but then of course they would. "I've had girls try to jump me," says William Wenkel, the CEO, co-founder and former skipper himself. "But I've never used my power.")

If the average age of the people who go on 18-30 holidays is early twenties, then, at 29, Reese is the average Yacht Weeker.

Take your pick from any number of reasons: a generation marrying later, an international moneyed elite looking for a wilder time, or simply the 18-30s holiday finally going high-end via the addition of boats (docking at a different port each night, after all, allows the Yacht Week to visit high-end hot-spots not yet touched by beer-boy tourism, while also promising the allure of adventure, despite that adventure coming with a timetable and personal chefs).

There are other benefits, as Reese would attest. As we set sail the next day, where your boat docks becomes the subject of much discussion. Put another way: you want to dock next to the people you got chatting to the night before. In some cases, this simply leads to jealously. In others, bribery.

Just last week, Cowboy Carl skippered a boat with many beautiful Brazilian girls on board, and found himself the subject of offers from other boats, asking them to dock next to them. "You will always meet someone you fancy," says Wenkel, "and the lubricator is the boat."

Or, more exactly, the dock. As we set sail on the second day, it becomes clear that most days follow a similar pattern on Yacht Week. Up, breakfast, leave dock, sail, stop at a cove, swim off your hangover, lunch, then sail again to that night's destination.

Eat. Party. Repeat.

Each swimming stop-off (which isn't so much about swimming as drinking on inflatables) is designed for two reasons: to socialise with other Yacht Weekers in swimwear, and to have social-media pictures taken of you while you do so. "I'm so drunk I've forgotten how to swim!" shouts one Australian man, who takes a brief pause from pretend-drowning to flirt with the real thing as he tries to wave at the photographer taking a picture of him. The two photographers who accompany every Yacht Week run, co-founder Erik Björklund later tells me, were there pretty much from Yacht Week's inception. Indeed, they're the reason for Yacht Week's phenomenal success. Nearly everyone I spoke to said they chose Yacht Week either due to the professional pictures on Facebook their friends were tagged in, or because of the YouTube trailer, made by a director better known for music videos, which has currently been viewed more than three million times. "We were pretty tech-savvy from the beginning," says Björklund. "We wanted to grow the company [by getting] people to go, have a really good time, and then share it. That's why we put photographers at every event, and then put people in good situations on the ocean - these are the images we want to be associated with."

The "good situations" are crucial, as they work both as holiday highlights (for those who are there) and de facto photo shoots (for those who are not). The second day we stop at a beautiful cove where people dive off an overhanging jut of rock into the water below while pictures are taken. These are later filtered through to Björklund back in London, to decide what goes on Facebook. A few days later we'll take part in one of Yacht Week's most popular (and photogenic - the two are nearly always one and the same) events, which involves tethering up to 20 yachts together in a star formation while everyone jumps in the middle on their inflatables, many necking Jägermeister straight from the bottle as they do so. "It's an international cesspit!" shouts one Australian girl, approvingly, while a bearded American TV producer attempts to cause hilarity by squeezing a 4ft foam rod between his legs and some Americans attempt to dole out shots while doing doggy paddle. On this day, along with the standard two staff snappers, Yacht Week will often attach a camera to the top of one the masts, all the better to take a shot already perfectly framed by the boats - shooting aspiration in a barrel.

"The boats in star formation proves particularly popular," says Björklund, when I ask about the images that attract the most attention. "Or just a group of young, hot people." But the shots of the foam-penis man will not be uploaded. "We're after aspiration."

Those not swimming are generally Instagramming, and it is partly for this reason all boats are fitted with Wi-Fi. The last thing I hear as we untether the boats and head to our next party is an Irish voice yelling, "I can't wait to see the comments!"

Yacht Week began life simply enough - an exclusively Swedish thing, not a holiday so much as a gathering. A group of like-minded folk, sailors all, got together in 2005 to form a small armada, sail around some Croatian islands, and have a few drinks when they got there. They got home, posted their pictures on Facebook, and, says Wenkel, "said we'd never do this again".

Then they started getting the Facebook messages. How could they come on this amazing boat holiday too? "People did this before, but it never spread. We have Facebook to thank for that. We couldn't have predicted it."

They had something else to thank, too: just as Yacht Week began, in 2008 the financial crisis hit, "which meant not as many rich guys taking yachts", meaning there were more available to rent and there was more harbour space free on the premium islands. And so it grew and grew, Facebook albums spawning Facebook albums, the rise of Instagram throwing petrol on the flames. And with it, stricter rules applied by some islands, banishment from others, tense negotiations from yet more. "And now," says Wenkel, "I have to control this little Frankenstein."

Currently, this particular little Frankenstein's monster is taking the form of Tribble Reese, who is attempting to neck a bottle of vodka the size of a parking bollard. This is not an exaggeration. We are at a party on the island of Vis, on the top of an abandoned fort built in 1813 by the British Royal Navy, and now put to use by Yacht Week as an exclusive party locale. The DJ is spinning, hands are in the air, spirits are being downed, lanterns hang from the trees above us, and by 2am, all the ships' captains will stand in a circle, holding bottles of champagne worth several thousand dollars in total, bought by their respective passengers, to spray over the entire dance floor.

For now, the Amex black cards and MasterCard gold cards are getting a thorough flexing partly due to the bottle service - each spirit bottle arriving with some form of fireworks attached - and partly due to the sizes of the bottles being served. Hence, Reese is currently upending a six-litre bottle of Belvedere into his person. I can honestly say I never knew vodka could be purchased in quantities so huge. Having heaved it high above his head, he looks, to all intents and purposes, like a gerbil who has liberated its water bottle from the side of its cage, and is now wondering if this was such a good idea. It probably shouldn't come as a shock, however, that Reese was posing for a shot for GQ 's photographer at the time. Throughout the night, he gamely heaves the bottle high above his head for any other iPhone snappers or eager Instagrammers who are interested, while directing his friends to do the same. Look how crazy he is! There is no strict evidence he drinks a single drop. "Man, I've done reality TV, so let me know what stupid quotes you need!" he tells me later. I say he's already made the piece. He looks very happy.

These survivalist-sized vodka bottles, remarkably, are standard on Yacht Week. Even more remarkably, many were bought at the marina shop on the first day to drink on board, meaning a week's worth of watching people heave up bottles with both hands in order to pour, veins pulsing in their necks, looking like firemen with high-powered hoses, and often causing vodka tsunamis when they rock from a wave. They're not exactly ideal for the high seas. Yet almost every time someone pours, someone Instagrams. Just look how big they are! Imagine the comments.

It stands to reason, perhaps, that a holiday born from Facebook jealousy and spirited by social-media word of mouth should attract people keen to pass the envy baton along, and show their own friends what a good time they've also had ("I think self-expression is really important for a lot of young people," says Björklund, by way of explanation. "When you have these experiences, you want to share them").

But there are other, more curious, things about Yacht Week. Take the parties. Nearly all the venues are actually tiered amphitheatres. At the party on top of the abandoned Fort George, for instance, the dance floor is actually sunken, with three levels ringing around above it, meaning, in practice, everyone is on display to everyone else at all times, but often too separated, by distance and depth, to talk to anyone they don't already know (pick the social-media metaphor out of that). It also resulted in the most curious sight of the night: half the people on the upper levels facing away from the actual party at any one time as they attempted to take selfies with the dance floor in the background, but looking, from a distance, like Manchester City fans doing the Poznan, or dissidents enacting some form of political protest.

This tiering has other uses too. When I joined the notorious afternoon blowout - and cause of so many complaints - at Carpe Diem bar on Hvar island later in the week, as House Of Pain's "Jump Around" boomed from the sound system, the multi-levels that spanned 360° around the main dance floor were being used by those spraying the champagne, and all the better to get pictured while doing it too.

While being expensively drenched, I get talking to Benjamin, a 29-year-old hedge-fund manager from Chicago. Last night, he says, he and three friends spent $40,000 on champagne. He still owes his friend his $10,000 share, "as the island didn't take Amex!"

Yesterday, after docking, everyone in the boats nearby immediately emptied their pockets and jumped into the water for a refreshing swim. Walking along the pier afterwards to dry himself off, "I walked along the dock, and you'd see seven Amex black cards, six Rolex watches... everything you can imagine. It's insane."

Last month, says Charlotte, GQ 's on-board cook, she remembers watching hundreds of dollars float past in the water, followed by a wallet, following by a frantically paddling American who asked, "Have you seen a Gold Mastercard float this way?" "They're either rich or mommy and daddy are," says Julian Brockburst, a skipper. "But it's more than a holiday. As a networking event, it's unbeatable."

Last year, he says, an entrepreneur passed him his card, "and I'm now doing coding for him!" (He had never done coding before).

Another person, he says, recommended he buy shares in e-cigarettes when they were just $1. He didn't. "And now they're $14! But all these guys, they're masters and MDMAs." (He means MBAs - people possessing master's degrees in business administration - rather than people possessing the illegal compound of ecstasy.)

But on this evening, the champagne sprayers aren't just being recorded by others - many are recording themselves. At least three people in the writhing, jumping crowd have selfie sticks held aloft with GoPro cameras attached. It turns out they're recording footage for "YouTube trailers" of their own holidays, which they record every day, and which they'll later professionally edit, set to music and upload - or get someone else to do it for them.

So popular, in fact, Björklund tells me later, they're integrating them with the official Yacht Week website. They've recently set up a new section called "Yacht Week Independent" where they highlight the best.

These things will happen before Yacht Week ends.

Reese - after striking out for four days in a row, virtually unheard of at Yacht Week - finally gets laid. He will run up and high-five me with this news. More incredibly expensive champagne will be sprayed, of which a New Zealand girl, Sian, will later write on her blog: "$100 bottles of champagne being sprayed over the crowd seems like something just from the movies, not for us!"

We will go to a party on a private island that does feel like a movie. We will get there on a water taxi, arriving at what feels like the most exclusive festival in the world, with the beautiful super-yacht rich in attendance; we will raise our hands in the air as the DJ plays, and the trees sway, and see others with their arms outstretched too, holding selfie sticks to the sky for the best angle possible, the night of their lives already self-fulfilled.

Months later, Tribble Reese will email me. Yacht Week changed his life, he says. He's spent the past few months sailing around the world with a skipper he met there. His cook, randomly enough, is Charlotte - the same patient, easygoing Dane who fed HMS GQ so well. They're currently in the Caribbean, and plan to head for the British Virgin Islands to join the Yacht Week armada once more. Then, on to South America, and adventure. He has a ton of cool footage, he tells me. He's making a film of it. He'd love to show it to me.

By Owen Gough

By Lucy Ford

By Murray Clark

By Eileen Cartter

By Miles Ellingham

By Jack King

Vis Island – Submarine Bases, Cricket and Craft Beer Made in Norway

Paul Bradbury

March 29, 2024

March the 29th, 2024 – Regarded as one of the great hidden gems of tourism in Europe, a visit to the magical Vis island reveals surprising diversity, tradition and intrigue away from the beach. 

It is a funny thing moving to an island on the Adriatic, and then settling there for 14 years. You become patriotic about the island, convinced that it is better than all others. And it is, especially when that island is Hvar, the sunniest in Europe, home of organised tourism in Europe, and the island with the most UNESCO heritage in the world.

But sometimes it is nice to meet the neighbours…

Vis is an island which has always fascinated me, but one to which my attention has been limited to just three short trips and only one overnight (and that a blustery rainy affair in November a decade ago), and so I was delighted to accept an invitation from leading regional destination management company Intours DMC to see the island of Vis through their eyes.

It was quite a sight…  

A 07:30 speedboat departure before the onset of the August heat from Hotel Amfora in Hvar Town was a pleasant way to start the day, and a chance to catch up on one of the treasures of the Vis experience before we hooked up with out guide of the day – the submarine base close to Vis Town.

Vis has always been a strategically important island from a military point of view due to its geography, and as we shall see below, that geography has shaped its history and its present look and feel today.  

A closed military island under President Tito, Vis was off limits to foreign visitors until the war in former Yugoslavia in 1991. And there were many secrets to keep away from prying foreign eyes, not least this delightful submarine base, big enough to shelter subs up to 110 metres long.  

Today, an idyllic tourist spot. The powers that once were might not have approved of the 21st century security – a sleeping tourist, a sailboat and a watchful dog… 

Military history runs through the veins of Vis and dates back to a period way before the rise of Tito and his Partisans. The British have a particularly strong affiliation with Vis, with different levels of presence over the centuries. Fort St. George, named after King George III, is just one of several British forts on Vis, and one which has been given a fresh lease of life, after major investment from the Swedish owners of The Yacht Week, which have turned the fort into an upscale dining and entertainment centre, with mixed reaction from locals.  

One more short car transfer and we were looking at another fascinating aspect of Vis’ miliary history. The guns may have been rusted out these days, but they pay testament to their heritage, and they led to a fascinating warren of tunnels to put together one more piece of the Vis jigsaw. 

If you have to prepare yourself for battle, there are few views that can match this one.

What impressed me about the tour was the level of detail, with a comprehensive answer to each question. In the compact area allocated to the gunners, for example, was this metal addition to the concrete wall, put there to suck away the smoke from the firing of the gun, which both helped the gunners to breathe as well as continuing to conceal the location of the weapon from the enemy. 

And once your eyes were adjusted, there were plenty of clues as to other military points overlooking the bay. And then the big surprise – they were all interconnected by a warren of tunnels. Not one for the claustrophobic, but the tour into the heart of Vis was fascinating indeed, and gave an insight into the harsh conditions soldiers were forced to deal with, despite the gorgeous views.  

A trademark terrible Bradbury photograph in a concrete room deep inside the hills of Vis, the only light coming from a mobile phone. Against the wall, six iron bed frames, one on top of another. Sleeping quarters.  

But the tunnels were part of a larger network of military power of the now reviled JNA.  

From the air, an innocuous looking stone house in the middle of a field, surrounded by aromatic rosemary. But in fact one of two houses, whose sole purpose was to be air vents for a huge missile loading facility below. Beautifully disguised, and perhaps the only clue was that there was no entrance door…  

The memory of war is hard to ignore on Vis, particularly from the various sacrifices of the Second World War, during which Vis played a strategically crucial role in the liberation of South-East Europe. 

The British servicemen who gave their lives are remembered to this day.

Dignified. Peaceful. Respectful. 

The key role Vis played in the Second World War was due in large part to the 1.3km airstrip on the island, which was taken by the Partisans and handed over to Allied control. This gave the Allied air fleet an emergency option in case of trouble in flight, as well as a much closer launching pad for attacks. 

It would appear that good times are about to return to the airfield in Vis. Local enthusiasts are in the final stages of getting the air strip back into function, with 2017 targeted with the opening of a sports air strip for adrenaline sports such as paragliding and sky diving, moving on potentially to the opening of a proper airport. 

And, as one would expect next to an airstrip on a distant Adriatic island – a cricket pitch!

And not just any cricket pitch. But rather home to the oldest cricket club in Europe outside the UK. A fabulous story of a bored British serviceman during the Napoleonic Wars in 1811 starting a cricket club, a story taken up by a cricket-loving returning Australian Croat almost 200 years later.

And surely one of the world’s coolest scoreboards and pavillions. 

The cricket is taken seriously, and Vis Cricket Club is now the home of an international cricket competition every spring.

And host to cricket clubs all over the world. 

And those who play cricket – and tourists in general – love to eat. How about this for a group feeding from one of Dalmatia’s finest specialities, the peka.

And what would a Dalmatian island be without wine? Croatian wine is slowly being discovered on the international scene. With a range of terroirs and 130 indigenous grape varieties, these are exciting times for Croatian wine, with international interest in search of new experiences.

Vis island plays its part on the indigenous stage, with a delicious white variety called Vugava. Before phylloxera decimated the vineyards of Dalmatia, almost all the island’s fields were covered in vines. Today, there are only 5-6 serious winemakers. 

The bond of an island to the sea is obviously strong, and no more so than on Vis island, which is famed for its fishing tradition, and also its sailing.  Wikipedia  will tell you that the oldest sailing regatta was in 1775, but in 1593, some 75 boats set off in a race to the rocky island of Palagruza and back to Vis. 

The boat of choice, and one which has been in recorded use since 1177, was the falkusa (falkusha). 

And, although we don’t resort to Wikipedia very often, it would be hard to put things better than this:

The Falkuša is a unique wooden boat, tapered narrowly on both sides, and is about seven to eight metres in length by 3 metres wide. It had a low draft under a large (120 m2 or 1,300 sq ft) lateen sail made from flax, mounted on a mast which was typically as high as the ship was long. It was very fast both under sail and with oar, able to achieve speeds between 8 and 12 knots. Its distinctive feature were two removable wooden side strakes called falke, after which falkuša got its name. The strakes raised the rim of the boat by about half a metre, protecting it from high waves in the open seas. To ease the hauling of the nets, the strakes were removed during fishing. The vessel could carry up to eight tonnes of salted fish barrels. 

Beautifully designed, the emergency wooden oars. 

And a simple tool to take off the sides of the boat to allow the nets to come on easily. 

There was one more surprise in this action-packed, fact-filled and fascinating day. The first craft beer on the island of Vis. Worthy of a try on the Komiza waterfront. 

And, as I was coming to expect on Vis island, a beer with a story which was not so straightforward, for the first Vis beer is actually made in… Norway!

It seemed somehow fitting to have such a bizarre end to a magnificent day. There is method in the Norwegian madness, however. Some Norwegians have been coming to Vis island for the last 15-20 years and are in love with it. The idea was hatched with a local winemaker and official to make the first Vis craft beer. All was going well until the legendary Croatian bureaucracy got in the way, and it was not going to be possible to finalise things for production for 2016, so they decided to make it in Norway for now. As you do. 

And rather nice it is too.

Komiza, the second town of Vis, is a delightful place, and one full of history and surprises. It is home to the first whore house on the Adriatic, for example, and indeed boasted two such establishments 100 years ago. According to our guide, it still has more families making their living from fishing than tourism, this despite the fact that there used to be seven fish factories in the town, compared to none today. Before the phylloxera outbreak which decimated the wine industry and forced mass emigration, Komiza had some 5,500 inhabitants. The population of the island is just 3,000 today. 

And 3,000 is the number of beds available on Vis island for tourists. It was tough at the time with the island being closed to foreigners, but perhaps the silver lining is coming now, decades later. The first hotels were built in the 1960s, but available only for locals, as foreigners were banned from visiting this military island. As such, Vis was left behind in the rise of mass tourism on the rest of the Adriatic coast. 

And I think that is a good thing. Vis island is not easy to get to, but it offers a truly relaxing and fabulous historical experience for those who make the effort.

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The Ultimate Guide to The Yacht Week in Croatia

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Are you a party animal in search of an unforgettable experience? Look no further than The Yacht Week in Croatia! This week-long extravaganza is held annually in the beautiful and underrated destination of Croatia. But here's the twist - all the parties take place on yachts! If you're ready for an adventure filled with epic parties, stunning scenery, and lifelong memories, then The Yacht Week is the place to be.

What is The Yacht Week?

Choosing your route, booking your yacht week experience, accommodations on the yachts, exploring the islands, the parties - the highlight of each day, dining on the yacht week, budgeting for the yacht week, the importance of your crew, arrival and departure.

The Yacht Week is a renowned seven-day festival that takes place in six different locations, with Croatia being one of them. It all started back in 2006 when a group of friends from Sweden decided to create their own sailing experience for adventure seekers like themselves. Since then, The Yacht Week has grown to include 70,000 people who love to explore, party, and sail.

When it comes to The Yacht Week in Croatia, there are seven different routes to choose from. Each route offers a unique experience, with varying levels of partying, local exploration, and cultural immersion. The Original Croatia Route is the most popular choice, known for its legendary parties and breathtaking scenery. But if you're looking for something different, you can also opt for routes in Italy, Greece, Montenegro, the Caribbean, or Grenada.

Once you've decided on the route that suits your preferences, it's time to gather your crew and book your yacht or cabin. It's important to book early as the boats per route are limited. You can book directly through the official website of The Yacht Week to secure your spot and start planning for the adventure of a lifetime.

During The Yacht Week, your home will be the yacht itself. While the accommodations may not be lavish, the boats are well-maintained and provide a comfortable space for you and your crew. It's important to note that space on the yachts can be a bit cramped, so be prepared for close quarters. Most boats have multiple bathrooms, but it's essential to be mindful of water usage and follow proper toilet etiquette.

While The Yacht Week is known for its epic parties, it's also an opportunity to explore the stunning islands of Croatia. From secluded bays to charming towns, there's no shortage of beauty to discover. Take the time to go on excursions, rent a Vespa and explore the islands, or simply walk around the towns and indulge in local delicacies. It's all about finding the perfect balance between partying and experiencing the culture and natural wonders of Croatia.

Let's not forget the main attraction - the parties! The Yacht Week Croatia is famous for its legendary parties, and each day offers a unique and unforgettable experience. From the Riviera Chic party in Hvar to the Fort Party in a historic fort, the festivities are non-stop. Snagging a table with bottle service is highly recommended for a more comfortable experience. The Raft Party and Regatta are also highlights not to be missed. It's all about dancing, socializing, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

While onboard, you'll have the option to have your own hostess who will cook breakfast and lunch for you and your crew. Trust us when we say, this is worth every penny. Your hostess will take care of the meals, ensuring that everyone is well-fed and ready to take on the day's adventures. However, there are also plenty of opportunities to eat out at local restaurants and enjoy the delicious cuisine of Croatia. Don't forget to try traditional dishes like Peka, and indulge in some mouthwatering ice cream from local shops.

It's important to be prepared and budget accordingly for The Yacht Week. While the cost will depend on various factors such as the route, yacht type, and group size, it's essential to account for expenses like groceries, port fees, water taxis, bottle service, and group dinners. Splitting costs evenly with your crew is recommended to ensure a fair distribution of expenses. Planning ahead and using apps like Splitwise can help keep track of expenses and settle the bill at the end of the trip.

Your crew plays a significant role in the success of The Yacht Week. It's important to have a group of like-minded individuals who are open-minded, responsible, and ready to have a good time. The Yacht Week places emphasis on the ratio of guys to girls in your group, so it's crucial to ensure a balance. Having a skipper and hostess on board is also highly recommended, as they will provide guidance, take care of logistics, and enhance your overall experience.

Arriving a day before the official check-in time is recommended to avoid any potential travel delays and ensure a smooth start to your Yacht Week adventure. Booking accommodations near the marina allows for a good night's sleep before embarking on your journey. On the departure day, you'll return to the marina, check out, and bid farewell to your yacht and crew. It's a bittersweet moment, but the memories and friendships forged during The Yacht Week will last a lifetime.

The Yacht Week in Croatia is an experience like no other - a perfect blend of adventure, partying, and exploration. From sailing the stunning Croatian coastline to dancing the night away at legendary parties, this week-long extravaganza is sure to be the best week of your life. So gather your crew, book your yacht or cabin, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Embark on The Yacht Week in Croatia, and let the party begin!

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Croatia Yacht Charter | Vis

Despite its picturesque Mediterranean beauty, its glorious olive groves and vines, its ancient ruins and deserted beaches, Vis is still virtually unaffected by tourism and retains its amazing natural beauty.

Vis is a fabulous place to spend a day (at least!), with its 16th-century Venetian fort, palm-fringed square and old harbour. Nearby, the best sandy beaches can be found at Milna and Stoncica, a narrow inlet cleft in the rock with inviting turquoise water. Or the equally stunning beach at Srebrna, where the large, flat, pale stones give the place its name: 'silvery'.

Other reachable destinations from Vis are Mljet , Rovinj and Korcula . Have a look at our itinerary around Dubrovnik and Croatia to get a taste of the wonderful scenery, towns and cruising areas this destination has to offer.

Vis is a highly recommended stop on any Croatian Charter. Click here for a charter itinerary from Dubrovnik to Split, including Vis and its surroundings .

More information on Chartering in Croatia

• Sunseeker 86 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 27 m
• Year: 2009 (2015 Refit)
• From €30000 to €35000 per week
• Crew: Crewed
• Type: Motor
• Length: 27 m (91' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Charter THE BEST WAY today on the coast of Croatia for stunning views and exciting port towns!"

• Sunreef 50 Crewed Catamaran
• Length: 15 m
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• Type: Catamaran
• Length: 15 m (51' )

• Azimut 78 Luxury Motor Yacht
• Length: 23.6 m
• From €48600 to €53000 per week
• Length: 23.6 m (80' 8")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Step onboard this brand new high performance Azimut for the ultimate Croatian adventure this summer."

• Lagoon 620 Luxury Crewed Catamaran
• Length: 19 m
• From €19000 to €37500 per week
• Length: 19 m (64' 4")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Perfectly encapsulating the Mediterranean mood, DUOLIFE is one of the newest Lagoon 620s available to discover the best of Croatia's Adriatic coast from the water."

• Maiora 106 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 32.5 m
• Year: 2008 (2021 Refit)
• From €65000 to €70000 per week
• Length: 32.5 m (110' 10")

• Luxury 37m Motor Sailor Gulet
• Length: 37.3 m
• From €54000 to €59000 per week
• Length: 37.3 m (126' 9")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "One of the highest-standard luxury Gulets available for charter from Croatia. Don't miss this unique opportunity!"

• Ferretti 960 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 29.2 m
• Year: 2014 (Refit 2017)
• From €68000 to €75000 per week
• Length: 29.2 m (99' 4")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "You would never want to leave Croatia after your cruising spree on IVA!"

• 50m Custom Gulet Gulet
• Length: 49.26 m
• From €85000 to €100000 per week
• Length: 49.26 m (167' 6")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "The perfect mix of modern luxury on a traditional platform, perfect for exploring the isolated Croatian anchorages, as well as the party town of Hvar!"

• Lagoon 65 Luxury Crewed Catamaran
• Length: 20.55 m
• From €35400 to €43365 per week
• Length: 20.55 m (69' 3")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Sleek and modern Lagoon 67 perfect for family and friends to cruise the Dalmatian islands in comfort and style!"

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "A brand new 2020 impressively built Sunreef 50 available for exclusive charters throughout the Dalmatian Coast, Croatia."

• Bali 5.4 Luxury Crewed Catamaran
• Length: 16.8 m
• From €18200 to €29400 per week
• Length: 16.8 m (57' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Explore Croatia on NAMASTE OF BALI and experience her unrivaled recreational and social amenities."

• Sunreef 60 Luxury Crewed Catamaran
• Length: 18 m
• From €21000 to €40500 per week
• Length: 18 m (61' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "This brand new 2020 impressively built Sunreef 60 available for exclusive charters throughout the Dalmatian Coast, Croatia."

• Sunreef 70 Luxury Crewed Catamaran
• Length: 21.3 m
• From €53000 to €79000 per week
• Length: 21.3 m (72' 6")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Sign up for a one-of-a-kind charter experience in Croatia on AMBER ONE!"

• Sunseeker 95 Yacht Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 26.38 m
• From €75000 to €80000 per week
• Length: 26.38 m (89' 10")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Embark on an adventure aboard MOWANA and discover the pearls of the Adriatic on this brand new Sunseeker yacht."

• Benetti Delfino 92 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 28.32 m
• Year: 2012 (2021 Refit)
• From €78000 to €88000 per week
• Length: 28.32 m (96' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "This stunning crewed motor yacht is exceptionally appointed with a real 5* feel!"

• Length: 18.3 m
• From €19500 to €36500 per week
• Length: 18.3 m (62' 6")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "SINATA is an all-around sailing leisure yacht ideal for exclusive getaways in Croatia!"

• From €21948 to €51150 per week

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "The new Sunreef 60 MR.SI is your perfect companion to take you to the breathtaking Dalmatian Islands this summer!"

• VZ Yacht 22m Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 22 m
• From €30000 to €34900 per week
• Length: 22 m (74' 4")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Let the sea take you to the paradise islands of Croatia on ALMA DE MAR."

• Ferretti 1000 Skydeck Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 30.13 m
• From €114000 per week
• Length: 30.13 m (102' 1")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Fancy as she is, ISOTTA truly makes heads turn while cruising the enchanting Dalmatian waters!"

• Custom Line 120 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 38.36 m
• From €160000 to €170000 per week
• Length: 38.36 m (130' 8")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Your 7-day Croatia itinerary will surely be a roller coaster of purely positive emotions on EROLIA!"

• Azimut 66 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 21 m
• From €23000 to €30500 per week
• Length: 21 m (71' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "A fantastic Azimut for small family groups, ideal for first-time charter guests wishing to explore Croatia."

• Ferretti 30m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 30.95 m
• Year: 2005 (2019 Refit)
• From €64000 to €72000 per week
• Length: 30.95 m (105' 11")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Captain Krsto knows Croatia like the back of his hand and will dazzle you with the isolated anchorages, national parks and cultural cities!"

• Benetti 132 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 40.24 m
• From €190000 to €220000 per week
• Length: 40.24 m (136' 4")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Built for a celebration, this extraordinary Benetti is a masterpiece of design inside and out, exceeding all expectation of a Croatian yacht charter experience."

• Sunreef 80 Luxury Crewed Catamaran
• Length: 24.41 m
• From €72500 to €79500 per week
• Length: 24.41 m (83' 5")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "A stunning Catamaran perfect for couples or a family."

• 38m Gulet Motor Sailor Gulet
• Length: 38 m
• Year: 2004 (2015 Refit)
• From €40000 to €45000 per week
• Length: 38 m (129' 8")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Space, style and sophistication aboard one of the finest crewed Gulets available in Croatia."

• Benetti 47m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 47 m
• Year: 2010 (2021 Refit)
• From €200000 to €220000 per week
• Length: 47 m (159' 8")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Stunning Benetti Yacht recently refitted and in pristine condition ready for your charter in Greece and Croatia next summer."

• Heesen 44m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 44.17 m
• Year: 2008 (Refit 2016)
• From €160000 to €175000 per week
• Length: 44.17 m (150' 1")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "The most luxurious Heesen 44m cruising Croatia with a longstanding crew led by Captain Dino."

• Custom Build 45m Gulet
• Length: 45 m
• From €64000 to €77000 per week
• Length: 45 m (153' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Expansive decks with a plethora of sunbathing, alfresco dining and lounging areas make SON DE MAR the ultimate Croatia crewed motor sailer for charter this summer."

• Bilgin Yachts 47 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 47.5 m
• From €220000 to €249000 per week
• Length: 47.5 m (161' 10")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Sporty and sleek, STARBURST III is one of the of the most striking yachts in her class with a dynamic and fun crew."

• 30m CBI Navi Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 30.6 m
• Year: 2000 (2019 Refit)
• From €72000 per week
• Length: 30.6 m (104' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "NOVELA is one of the finest yachts in her class cruising the Croatian Coast. Excellent volume and interior flexibility make her perfect for families!"

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Croatia Sailing Itineraries

It is just not possible to see all the islands in a week, so come for two, or come back again! Charters are typically Sunday to Sunday. Take a look at some of our recommended Croatia Sailing Itineraries below.

7 Nights/8 Days: Trogir to Dubrovnik

Once you land in Zadar (consider flying in a day early and overnighting in Zadar), you should take the time to explore on foot and by car. It is a lovely town with beautiful white stone squares and pavements, and home to the extraordinary “sea organ” which plays on the rise and fall of the sea under the steps.

Visit the historic quarter of Zelini Trg. The 8th century Church of St. Donat is built on the Roman Forum. It is a 130 km drive from Zadar to Trogir, which will take about 90 minutes, but we recommend taking your time to stop at the waterfalls at Krka and driving to the town of Skradin, built on a sea inlet. Explore the marina with its mix of traditional Mediterranean fishing boats and mega yachts. Enjoy some fresh catch of the day quayside. Sibenik is another town rich in architecture if you have the time. Drive on to Trogir and board your yacht.

Croatia Sailing Itineraries Day 1 – Trogir to Omis via Otok Drvenik Veli

If you are longing to swim in crystal clear waters, then after a short sail or motor, you can be in the beautiful anchorage on Otok Drevik Veli. Enjoy lunch at anchor before sailing to Omis. Omis is on the mainland coast, but of the charter track and a good way to change your itinerary from the norm and subsequently have quieter anchorages for the rest of the week.

Dinghy ashore late afternoon ( or get up early) to avoid the heat, and hike up the hill to the Trnava Starigrad- the fortress above the town. Surround yourself with stunning views across the coast and the mountainous interior. The perfect start to your Croatia Sailing Itineraries.

Day 2 – Omis to Brac

Sail from Omis to the east coast municipality of Selca on Brac This Dalmatian cluster of villages enchants and charms its visitors by the art of stone masonry with a centuries-old tradition, as every building is made of Brač white stone. The culture and tradition of stone masonry is evident in every corner. Relax in the crystal clear sea in the nearby coves of Radonja, Splice, and Žirje.

Day 3 – Brac to Vis

Of all the inhabited Croatian Islands, Vis is the furthest from the coast and the most enigmatic. Explore Vis by moped … Vis is full of history, from ancient times through World War II to Croatia’s independence in 1991; it is full of authenticity, nature, gourmet delights and spectacular views.

Vis has its own distinct grape, Vugava, a white varietal that’s been cultivated here since ancient times. A little trivia – the movie Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, was filmed on the Island.

Day 4 – Vis to Korcula Island – Vela Luka

Vela Luka’s most interesting sight is  Vela Spila   or Great Cave. This vast rocky hideout was clearly inhabited in the Neolithic Period. Despite its antiquity, Vela Luka remained lightly inhabited until the 18th century when its position as a gateway port to Korcula Island brought some prosperity. Known for its fishing village and its famous Korcula olive oil.

Day 5 – Korcula Town

Spend the day admiring the fascinating architecture, narrow streets, and the Venetian-styled, white stone buildings. Korcula town (pronounced kor-chula) is a walled town on the easternmost point of Korcula Island near some delightful beaches.

Korcula Town offers one of Croatia’s most romantic views and the striking Venetian architecture makes it a top sight. Tucked behind massive walls on a small peninsula, the winding streets are linked by stone steps (lots of them!) and offer stunning vantage points across the Peljeski Channel to the Peljesac peninsula.

Day 6 – Korcula to Mljet

One of 8 National Parks, this one is known for its beauty of untouched nature. There are plenty of things to see and to do at the park, including a visit to the Benedictine monastery in the middle of a small islet.

You can hike, walk, stroll, and even bike around its many trails. The island also features lots of caves that have been naturally formed along with ground erosions. Its most popular cave is the Odyssey’s Cave which you can reach by taking a short boat ride inside the park.

Day 7 – Mljet to Sipan

Sipan Island (pronounced shee-pan) is the largest of the Elaphiti Islands. Sipanska Luka is a beautiful fishing village surrounded by a valley composed of olive and fig trees, vineyards and citrus groves. It is famous for its wine and for its delightfully laid-back ambiance.

Day 8 – Kolocep and Dubrovnik

Sail to Kolocep for a final dip before returning your yacht. Allow time to visit Dubrovnik. Consider booking a hotel for one more night, or check if your yacht is available for a sleep aboard.

Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is an ancient, walled, medieval city filled with world-class restaurants and narrow cobblestoned alleyways to explore…what’s not to love?

Spend the day in the extraordinary world heritage site, wander through the Old Town, watch the cliff jumping, and if you are a Game of Thrones fan, you can join a Game of Thrones tour! However you choose to spend your time in the city, you will never forget it.

We’re sure you will love this itinerary, if you would like more Croatia Sailing Itineraries, or to book a charter, please contact us today!

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Witness It: Blenders x The Yacht Week

At Blendz, you’re fully aware we know how to make kickass shades (check two of our limited-edition frames below), but it turns out we know how to rage, too. (Shocker, right?)

Last month, our Founder and Chief Shaderator, Chase, grabbed some seriously well-deserved time off alongside our Marketing Manager, Grace, and Event Coordinator, Marygrace.

The destination? Croatia. And the event vehicle for their time in the sun? None other than The Yacht Week.

The Week of Their Lives

The Blendz squad rocked The Yacht Week’s Croatia, Original Route for seven days, making the most of every damn second. Trust us, when you sign up for a floating party on any of TYW’s 40+ yachts sailing to one of seven prime world destinations, you’re going hard —there’s no way around it.

As you can tell from Grace and Marygrace’s lookbook of their time below, there’s no shortage of shenanigans to be had on the Croatia Route: Five islands to explore (Hvar, Bol, Vis, etc.), raft parties w/ headline DJs, nightclubs, run clubs, castle hikes, seaside yoga, sunset dinners and, of course, ridiculous island afterparties.

Of course, when you're getting into all that, you gotta look the part, which is why we teamed with The Yacht Week to prep two limited-edition shades:

Compass Blue

Now, a few fun Croatian facts courtesy of Chase:

• They invented the necktie.
• Croatia is home to the worlds smallest city, ‘Hum,’ with a population of 20 peeps.
• Their currency, ’Kuna,’ is named after a rodent. The rat, in fact.
• Croatians have the 4th-highest alcohol consumption of any country per capita.

Enjoy a glimpse at their time abroad below—at least, the parts we can show you—and don’t hesitate to  seize the day and make your own mems with The Yacht Week this year.

Trust us, it’s worth it.

Mischief on the High Seas

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