Dubrovnik Travel Information & Planning Guide

Croatia is an incredible vacation destination, boasting a vibrant and bustling culture that you’ll love from the second you set foot in the Marina!

At The Moorings, we’re committed to making your vacation as relaxing as possible, which is why we’re providing useful planning, pre-departure and travel information for you. From servicing airports to base arrival procedures, it will tell you what to expect to make your vacation smooth and carefree, so you can be lounging in the sun up on the deck of one of our yachts in no time at all.

General Travel Information for Croatia

To help you learn more about where you’ll be exploring, take a look at our Croatia fact file:

*Area: 35,134 sq. mi c
*Population: 4,489,409
*Capital city: Zagreb
*Currency: Euros
*People: Croat, Serb, other (including Bosniak, Hungarian, Slovene, Czech, and Roma)
*Language: Croatian, Serbian, other and (including Italian, Hungarian, Czech, Slovak, and German)
*Religion: Roman Catholic, Orthodox , other Christian, Muslim, other
*Government: Presidential/Parliamentary Democracy
*Cuisine: Black risotto, Peka, Brudet, Seafood dishes, Boškarin, Zagorski štrukli and other delicious dishes

Croatia is easy to travel around, whether you fly to an airport before heading to Dubrovnik Marina or take a ferry. With fantastic facilities and amenities, you’ll never be stuck or left wanting anything, whether you’re looking for a mouth watering restaurant, clothing shop or medical treatment. The best part? Croatia is renowned around the world for its friendly locals, who’ll be more than happy to share the most impressive hidden gems and must-visit places on each of the islands!

How to Get There

Airport

Dubrovnik International Airport, also referred to as Cilipi Airport is located approximately 15.5 km from Dubrovnik city centre, near the suburb village of Cilipi.

Facilities at the airport include

*Money and communications: There is a bureau de change, bank and a post office.

*Eating and drinking: There are coffee shops selling hot and cold drinks, snacks and light meals in the terminal building.

*Shopping: A duty-free shop and a newspaper and tobacco shop that also sells souvenirs are available.

*Shuttle: Airport shuttle bus – tel:+385 (0) 99 275 1145, :+385 (0) 99 340 7160 SWEET TRAVEL – DUBROVNIK CROATIA (sweet-travel.hr) 45 HRK/person depart for Dubrovnik after the arrival of every regular incoming flight.

*Taxi: are available outside the terminal building. You can order one on: +385 20 411 411, +385 20 212 212, +385 20 332 222.

Transfers

Dubrovnik Airport at Cilipi is about 25 km away from the base in the ACI Marina and the transfer takes approximately 30 minutes.

Pre-booked transfer

Taxi (up to 3 people) – 47.50 €
Minivan (up to 7 people) – 52.50 €

If you are arriving by car from up North, take the first left immediately at the end of Dubrovnik bridge and drive up the valley for 3 km until you see the marina.

A very good bus service connects the ACI Marina with the center of Dubrovnik and the old town. It operates from early morning until 2 a.m. Bus stop: on main road as leaving marina. Bus No.1A or 1B (every 15 mins) to the old town. As yachts are not allowed in the old town port, this is the cheapest way of getting there. Taxis are available outside the marina reception:

Transfer between Dubrovnik base and Tivat Airport (Montenegro):

Taxi (up to 3 people) – 303.16 €
Minivan (up to 7 people) – 331.76 €

Transfer between Dubrovnik base and Split airport:

Taxi (up to 3 pax) – 394.68 €
Minivan (up to 7 pax) – 434.72 €

Transfer between Dubrovnik base and Agana base:

Taxi (up to 3 pax) – 394.68 €
Minivan (up to 7 pax) – 434.72 €

Transfer between Dubrovnik base and Old Town:

Taxi (up to 3 pax) – 20 – 25 €
Minivan (up to 7 pax) – 20 – 25 €

Please note: All guests should bring a copy of the charter contract/invoice.

Car rental

Car rental companies represented at the airport include: Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz and Sixt. You should note that international driver’s licenses are not deemed valid in Croatia. Please visit https://www.airport-dubrovnik.hr/index.php/en/passenger-services/transfers for more information.

Boarding Time/Check Out

Boarding time

Charters start at 3:00 p.m.

Late arrivals

If arriving after hours, a message will be left on the front door indicating the location of your boat. The Chart Briefing and Boat Briefing will be held the following morning before departure.

Check out time

Charters must return to the base by 5 p.m. and disembark by 9 a.m. the following morning.

A debriefing and final walkthrough will be done upon return so please allow enough time to complete this before the charter end time. In addition to filling in forms we also require you to bundle up the dirty laundry and leave it in the saloon, empty all cupboards and fridges of food and throw away (recycling where possible), return snorkel gear to the cupboard on dock E, and ensure that the boat is handed back to The Moorings in a clean and tidy state. We reserve the right to charge for boats left less than shipshape.

Whilst waiting for the transfer you may:

• Enjoy breakfast at the restaurants in the ACI Marina area.
• Enjoy an early lunch at the restaurants in the ACI Marina area.
• Enjoy a relaxing morning by the swimming pool.
• Catch bus No. 1; 1A; 1B or a taxi to the old town. This takes around 20-30 minutes.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the river.
• If your holiday is flight-exclusive, we request that you send your travel arrangements to us prior to departure so we can assist with transfer details where required.

Please note:

• All guests must bring a copy of the charter contract/invoice.
• Country entry/exit requirements are subject to change.
• Please check www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice for the latest information before you leave.
• We are not responsible for any requirement changes.

What’s on Board

Provisioning

Moorings Care packages are included on every yacht. These packages contain some of the basics to get you started for your vacation. Additional items are available to be purchased and delivered directly to your yacht. Visit our Provisioning Page to learn more.

Coolers

Coolers are available at the base on a first come first served basis at no additional charge. Please sign these out and return them clean and undamaged otherwise you will be charged for replacement. Only one per boat.

Mobile phones & Wi-Fi

Check with your service provider for information about mobile coverage in this region. Using your own mobile phone in conjunction with a prepaid SIM card is also very popular and convenient. WIFI is available for purchase as an optional extra. Telephone and internet facilities are also available in the ACI Marinas.

Music + iPods

While most of our newer boats have Bluetooth capability, we cannot guarantee all boats are fitted with this equipment. For your convenience, we highly recommend you bring an AUX line so you can listen to music from your mobile devices.

Electricity

The standard voltage on all yachts is 12 volts. Electricity in Croatia is 220 Volts, and uses the standard European 2 pin plug. In order to use electronic equipment that is 220 volts you will need an inverter suitable for use in a cigarette lighter.

What to Bring

Customs + immigration

Entry, exit, and visa requirements depend on the locations you are departing from and traveling to. You are responsible for having the correct documents so make sure to check with the embassy of the countries you plan to visit before you travel. Visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice for the latest information.

Cruising Licenses

Click here to view the sailing requirements in Croatia.

To charter in this destination, you’ll need a license. The requirement is (at min.) an ICC, RYA Day Skipper qualification or above, plus a VHF license. Original license/certificate must be presented upon check-in at the base.

Luggage + packing list

Please pack using soft-sided bags, as these are easier to store on your yacht. The base has no facilities for holding luggage. Pack lightly and review our suggested packing list below for required and necessary items to bring.

• Pack essential prescription medicine and change of clothing in a carry-on bag*
• Passport and other travel documentation
• Tickets and paper confirmations for pre-planned activities
• Light-colored, light-weight clothing
• Formal wear for upscale dining establishments
• Swimwear and cover up
• Hats and sunglasses
• Sandals and flip-flops
• Athletic shoes and hiking boots
• Travel-sized toiletries and hygiene products
• Insect repellent and OTC pain relievers/creams
• AUX cable for playing music through your device
• 12V DC to 110V AC power inverter (for boats without generators**) We do not supply this and also we are 220v AC
• 12V to USB power adapter for charging mobile devices.
• We would highly recommend packing prescription medicine and essential clothing (swimsuit, t-shirt, and shorts) in your hand luggage as occasionally your luggage may arrive at the base after you do.

**All boats include a 12V DC outlet (a “car” outlet). Boats with generators have 110V outlets in the Caribbean and 220V in the Mediterranean and Exotic locations.

As you prepare for departure, please reference the Dubrovnik Cruising Guide to learn more about chartering in this destination.

Luggage

Luggage allowance is 20kg per person. Only one item of hand luggage per person is allowed and this must not weigh more than 5kg. For storage aboard we recommend travelling light and using folding luggage.

Lost or damaged luggage whilst flying is the responsibility of the airline and is not covered by your travel insurance. Thomson Airways carries no liability for loss or damage to valuable or fragile items packed in hold baggage however caused. You must not include in checked baggage money, jewellery, precious metals, computers, personal electronic devices, negotiable papers, securities or other valuables, business documents, passports and other identification documents or samples.

Incidents

If an incident occurs, immediately report it to airport officials and ensure Property Irregularity Reports (PIR) are completed. Claims will not be considered once you have left the airport.

Alcohol may be taken on flights but only in checked luggage (well secured from breakages) not as hand luggage due to airport security restrictions.

Drones

The use of flying drones may be restricted in some areas. For current drone regulations in this destination, please visit http://www.ccaa.hr/english/naslovnica_1/

Currency

The official currency of the Republic of Croatia is the Euro.

You can exchange money at the departure airport, but the exchange rate is often better once you are in Croatia. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in larger towns and on some islands but it is advisable to have cash to pay for meals.

Please note: Bases are unable to accept cash or personal checks, and cannot give cash back on credit or debit (Switch/Delta) cards.

This base cannot accept American Express or Diners Club. Visa and Master Card are accepted.

Gratuity

Tipping in Croatia is becoming more commonplace, especially in upscale restaurants. In the past, tipping was welcome but not expected. Today, however, in newer, higher end places, an extra 10% or 15% is considered polite.

Security deposit

A security deposit must be paid at the base by Visa or Master Card and is refundable at the end of your charter subject to there being no loss or damage. To significantly decrease your security deposit, purchase our Yacht Damage Waiver insurance ahead of time.

Health and Safety

Vaccination and Immunization Information

This destination is generally risk-free of contagious disease. Visit cdc.gov for the latest information.

Travel Advice

Your health and safety are important to us. For advice on how to stay safe while on charter, please review our Travel Advice Information. Current travel and safety information can be obtained by visiting travel.state.gov.

Swim Safe

*Swimming is often a fun and important part of a vacation. However local rules, flag systems, currents and where swimming may be permitted, can be different and vary from country to country. Snorkel vests, Life Jackets and Diver Down flags are all available on board.

*Never swim alone, ‘buddy up’ with others in your party and use the snorkel vests provided.

*Know how and where to get help. If you see someone in difficulty; raise the alarm, preferably the emergency services. Ensure you know the correct number for the country you are in.

*Do not overestimate your ability

*Consider swimming lessons before you go if you think it would be useful to learn proper swimming technique.

*Even if you regularly swim in a pool, remember that open water swimming can be very different.

Safety

*All yachts are equipped with adult life jackets, harnesses, snorkel vests & diver down flags. You can see all this equipment demonstrated in our online safety briefing, and we strongly recommend that you make use this equipment during your vacation. This safety equipment will be displayed in the saloon of your boat onboarding – If you have any questions feel free to ask our base staff during your briefing.

*We have a very limited supply of children’s life jackets on base so highly recommend that if you are travelling with children, you bring their own. This ensures that children have correctly fitting jackets that are comfortable for them.

*Children should not be allowed in the dinghy without a life jacket or buoyancy aid and should wear a buoyancy aid or harness whilst on deck.

*Children under the age of 16 should not operate an outboard engine and should be supervised at all times when in the dinghy.

Children

*Talk to children about water safety at the start of a vacation, making them aware of the potential dangers.

*Accidents can happen at any time on vacation, but often they happen on the first and last day, so keep watch and do not get distracted when your children are playing by, or in the water.

*Children in or near water should always be supervised by an adult and never left unattended.

*Get in the water with them, it is easier to keep an eye on them as well as good fun. Floatation devices are highly recommended for children but are not a substitute for supervision.

Be aware of your surroundings

*Check warning flags and signage on the beach and only swim where it is permitted.

*Beware of dangerous currents, these can be very powerful. Not all beaches have lifeguards and/or warning flags.

*Beware of underwater hazards, such as reefs, rocks, sudden changes in depth and marine life.

*Never swim where a sign says not to e.g. in zoned areas for jet boats or jet skis.

*Never swim at night or after drinking alcohol.

*Look out for others

Travel Insurance

The Moorings offers comprehensive travel insurance for your peace of mind. If you have your own travel insurance, verify that it covers the destinations and activities of your Moorings vacation.

About the Marina

Address
Sunsail/ The Moorings Dubrovnik
ACI Marina Dubrovnik
Na Skali 2
Mokošica
20 236 Dubrovnik
Croatia

Base Hours
Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.,
Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Wednesday – closed

Season

The base is open from early March to end of November.

Facilities

*This modern marina offers, electricity, fuel station, water, grocery shop, shower/toilets, laundry, tennis courts, swimming pool, weather forecast and hourly or weekly parking (for a fee).

*In the marina, the supermarket is also open from 8am until 8pm on a Sunday (1st June till 30th September, and low season from 8 am till 12 am). There is a money exchange in marina reception, and cash point machine at the supermarket entrance.

*Near the entrance of the marina is a Konzum market. This is a local market and not a marina market, like in some marinas. The locals shop here and it sells a variety of produce from bakery, fresh fruits, vegetables, deli, dairy and fresh meat.

Fuel

Fuel Station location: In the marina close to the Sunsail base

Time zone

+1 hour UTC/GMT

Tourist information centre Pile Gate

Mon-Sun 08.00-21.00
Brsalje 5
tel: +385 20 312 011 Fax: +385 20 322065
e-mail: tic.pile@tzdubrovnik.hr

Tourist information centre Gruž harbor

Mon – Fr 08.00-20.00
Sat – Sun 8.00 do 14.00
tel. +385 20 417 983
Obala Pape Ivana Pavla 1
email: tic.gruz@tzdubrovnik.hr

Language

Croatian is the official language. Many Croatians can speak basic English, German or Italian.

Around the Base

Accommodations

Hotel accommodation in Dubrovnik is generally more expensive than elsewhere in Croatia. Demand for beds is high in July and August, so you should be prepared to arrive early in the day, or book in advance.

There are no hotels at the airport, the nearest accommodation being in Cavtat, around 5km (3 miles) away.

Hotel Vimbula

Tenturija 44
20236 Mokošica
Tel.: 00385 20 452 244
email: hotelvimbula@gmail.com

Berkeley Hotel

Ulica Andrije Hebranga
116A 20000 Dubrovnik
Tel: +385 20 494 160
Fax: +385 20 494 170
Email: info@berkeleyhotel.hr

Located on Gruz Harbour, Berkeley Hotel is a great base to explore Dubrovnik and its surroundings. As one of the few family owned and operated boutique hotels in Dubrovnik, guests staying here experience warm and friendly hospitality.

Villa Konalic

Rožat Donji 15
Dubrovnik
Croatia
Tel: +385 (0)20 452 506
Email: vlaho.kristovic@du.htnet.hr

Villa Konalic is about four miles from the center of Dubrovnik. Public transportation is available to the Old Town, with buses leaving every 10 minutes.

Banks

*Open from 7am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 12 noon Saturday.
*There are ATMs on most of the islands. Traveler’s checks are not readily accepted.
*Cash can be exchanged at banks, post offices, exchange offices, travel agencies, marina offices and hotels. There are many small exchange offices in town offering a better exchange rate than the bank. They are open from 8am to 8pm.

Post office

The post office is situated in the center of the town. Open Monday to Saturday 8am to 8pm.

Shopping

When shopping in Croatia you may be offered receipts in shops far lower in value than the amount paid. Shops do this to declare less tax. The Customs Officers at your home airports are well aware how much most goods are worth. If you declare a lower value, you may have the goods seized and a heavy fine imposed.

Supermarkets are situated a short walk away from the bases. Shops are open from about 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. every day (some close for siesta) and the majority close Sunday mornings. Many of your favorite products and brands may not be available.

Dubrovnik offers a variety of experiences and memories such as walking the town walls and shopping at the many shops. Jewelry is stunning here, and handcrafted in the old town. You will find traditional necklaces, strings of coral and pearl, silver earrings with filigree work, rings and brooches.

Many local markets can be found selling embroidered table cloths, linen, Dalmatian wine, spirits, preserves and dried fruit. The morning market at Gunduliceva Square is great for souvenirs, while the morning market at Gruz is great for fresh local produce. A VAT of 18.5% is added onto all non-essential products and services purchased in Croatia.

Provisioning

All provisioning orders should be placed no later than 7 days prior to the charter start date. Visit online store to place an order. For more information, visit here for our different provisioning options.

Things to Do

Restaurants

There are restaurants close to the bases and around many of the islands, with a wide selection of menus at various prices. Freshly caught local seafood is very popular. The local Sunsail staff will advise you of the whereabouts of restaurants.

Restaurant Zephyrus

ACI Marina, Komolac Dubrovnik – Croatia
Reservation: Tel: +385 20 451-010

The restaurant is located in a beautiful natural setting, nearby the source of river Ombla. You will find a pleasant pool area, good food and wine.

Bistro “Gat 23” is located close to the Sunsail reception. Coffee, juices, various beverages and a large selection of sandwiches and pizzas are available.

Pizzeria – Bistro Nava is located close to Bazen restaurant. Coffee, juices, various beverages and a large selection of sandwiches and pizzas are available.

Azzurro is opposite the Konzum market and has more of a pub feel to it, so a quick drink can be taken while waiting for a bus or taxi. Vimbula offers a relaxed evening meal along the banks of the River Ombla. Take a stroll inside the restaurant to see the photos from the past.

Tours

Walking tour around the Old Town of Dubrovnik ( general ), also themed tours ( Game Of Thrones, Food, War themed ), scheduled and private. Booking can be done via The Moorings office or The Moorings Dubrovnik base.

Zipline

See the town from different perspective in this adventurous way! Zipline from Štikovica bay, more info here

Eco Tour

Eco-friendly and fun way to discover all the wonders and hidden gems of Dubrovnik. Book this tour at The Moorings base.

Golf

Golf content at ACI marina Dubrovnik is meant for all boating guests who want to actively spend their time in the marina by playing golf or mini golf and thus entertain their friends or their entire family. Book your tee time at the reception desk at the marina.

Water Toys & Sports

For your convenience, you can add water toys to your charter prior to arrival at the base. They will be waiting on your boat upon arrival. You are able to rent these at the base but please keep in mind that we have limited availability. For more information, please view our water sports options here.

Scuba diving

Scuba diving is strictly regulated in Croatia. Please arrange in advance to dive with a local club in Dubrovnik. In order for you to dive from the yacht, a Croatian dive license is required.

The best option is to go through a Dive center. They will assist with rental of all equipment, and they will be able to show the best spots along the coast. Contact them for costing.

• Diving Club Dubrovnik: Tel: +385 20 43 57 37 37
• Navis Club Underwater: Tel: +385 20 35 65 01

For more information about scuba diving visit the Croatian Tourism Diving Association website.

Snorkeling

The Moorings will provide the fins, however will not provide the snorkels and masks at this time, please feel free to bring your own.

Please note:

• When diving and snorkeling, the diving flag and buoy should be deployed and visible to all passing nearby
• Swim vests should be worn at all times whilst snorkeling
• One person should remain out of the water, keeping watch of the others in the water

Kayaking, quad biking and rafting

Try rafting on the Cetina River, riding quad bikes around the village of Zedno as well as kayaking. All these activities are provided with the guidance of professional guides and further information can be obtained from our base.

Fishing

For any kind of fishing you need to buy a fishing license at the Harbour Master in Dubrovnik. There are no rental facilities for fishing equipment. To purchase a license online, use this page.

Cruising Grounds / Licenses

All of our yachts are licensed for sailing in Croatia, Italy, Montenegro, and Slovenia. If you are planning to leave Croatian waters please contact our reception at least one week in advance so that we can prepare cruising permits and the necessary documentation.

A formal sailing license is mandatory to charter in Croatia. Review the power or sail requirements for Croatia while planning your vacation to ensure you have the necessary skills and qualifications to take the helm and sail into the sunset! Please note that it is strictly forbidden to sail alone, we require two persons minimum on board at any one time.

Experience level

Sailing experience level 1

Level 1 destinations offer the easiest, most forgiving sailing, ideal for novices and less experienced sailors. Lazy line mooring, line-of-sight navigation and calm conditions mean you won’t sail outside your comfort zone.

Qualifications Required

You will require at least 5 days or 100 miles as a skipper on an equivalent size yacht

To sail in this destination you’ll need one of the following certifications: ASA 103, US Sailing “Basic Coastal Cruising”, SLC, IPC, ICC, plus a VHF license. Original license/certificate must be presented upon check in at the base.

Skipper is REQUIRED to have a VHF Radio Operator’s License:

A list of officially accepted licenses is available at the Croatian Ministry of Maritime Affairs. Please check the list of officially accepted licenses before contacting the base with any queries as the list is updated every few months. This list is organized by country and details the accepted competence levels for experience, boat size and distance-from-shore-sailing for the various certificates accepted. Please contact your Vacation Planner for more information.

Skippers & Crew qualifications and boat papers

We must have all of the following details in advance:

• Full name per passport (include middle name)
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Nationality and passport number/ID card number for every member of your crew so that your boat papers can be prepared
• It is imperative that you bring these sailing certificates or sailing qualifications with you. You will not be able to sail without these papers, and failure to supply information in advance could delay your departure from the base. The sailing experience you provide on your booking confirmation is required as proof of sailing experience for the Croatian Port Authorities. Please bring any sailing certificates or sailing qualifications with you. The Croatian Authorities website has full details of acceptable skippers licenses.
• Cruising Permits
• Montenegro: It is possible to sail to Montenegro, a permit must be obtained from the Harbour Master in the port of entry in Montenegro, and you must go through the Clearing procedures for both legs of your journey. The Croatian Clearing Port is Cavtat, south of Dubrovnik, and the Montenegrian Clearing Ports are either Zelenika or Kotor.

All yachts arriving in Montenegro have to purchase a Montenegrian cruising permit costing approx. €100. Port fees in Montenegro are additional. By law in order to pass clearance to go outside Croatian waters there must be two people on board who hold recognized skippers’ licenses – regardless of the size of the yacht. You must advise Sunsail in advance (at the time of booking if possible) if you plan to visit Montenegro.

Please note that the Croatian customs clearing procedure to leave Croatian waters can take several hours. Sunsail will do everything to assist but please bear in mind that Sunsail is not responsible for delays caused or as a function of the customs clearing process. More information on the sailing in this area.

Sailing area restrictions

There are no special restrictions in Croatian waters, although please pay attention to protected areas like Natural and National Parks that require additional tickets for your yacht. Also, National park Kornati and Nature park Lastovo are outside of the sailing region, so The Moorings 4-hour commitment doesn’t apply. Restricted zones will be covered in your chart briefing.

All the charts and pilot books you will need for the sailing area are to be found onboard, including small and big scale charts, pilot book and chart book, all issued by the Croatian government and up-to-date.

Night sailing

You must be moored at least one hour before sunset. Night Sailing is not allowed without permission from the base manager. The decision to allow night sailing is based on your skill level and can be requested in advance.

You will need to fill out the Sailing CV for the base to review but we cannot guarantee approval.

Charts + pilot books

All the charts and pilot books you will need for the sailing area are issued at your chart briefing. Charts and pilot books can be purchased by mail order from the UK chandler Kelvin Hughes by contacting 02380 634911.

Weather reports

The best Meteo report (In English) can be heard on the following wave lengths on your VHF, initial call is on 16.

Radio Dubrovnik Broadcasting: 7.45am, 2.45pm, 9.45pm VHF channel 04, 07, 28, 85
Radio Split Broadcasting: 7.45am, 2.45pm, 9.45pm VHF channel 07, 21, 28, 81
Internet: http://meteo.hr
Marina or harbour master office has updated weather in the morning from DHMZ at reception.
The base will also inform you of local weather conditions upon your arrival.

Sailing permits + taxes

VAT (Value Added Tax): This tax is issued by the Croatian Government and is paid up front at 6.5% of the charter fee. –>

Tourism Tax (Sojourn Tax): Croatian tourism tax will be collected by our holiday planners when making a booking. The cost is 10 HRK per person/per day and must be paid for the duration of your charter. There’s no charge for children under 12.

Moorings fees + taxes

Mooring fees are usually charged in harbours and on town quays by the local municipality. These are usually between €25 and €30 which is less than the per night charges in the larger marinas, but shower and toilet facilities may not be available.

Well-equipped marinas are common in Croatia and generally cost about €50 (for a 30 ft yacht) to €80 (for a 50ft yacht) per night. The actual price is dependent on the size of your yacht and the specific marina pricing policy. Shore power, water, and shower and toilet facilities are included in the cost of berthing in a marina.

If you use a private jetty free of charge, you are expected to eat at the owner’s restaurant.

In Hvar yachts are charged for anchoring as well as in National Park areas.

Weather Conditions

April – May: occasional showers, temperatures from 22-28 C. Winds generally NW F3-4 (10-20 Knots, sometimes up to 25 Knots). June – August – sunny, blue skies every day, temperature from 26 – 30 C. Winds generally NW F3-4 (10-20 Knots).

Sept – Oct: occasional showers (rain possible in late Oct). Winds generally NW F3-4 (10-20 Knots), but can be stronger in Oct (up to F 5-6).

The popularity of the Croatian coast as a sailing destination lies as much in the ideal climate as in the beauty of its shores and variety of sailing conditions. The sunny Adriatic enjoys an average of 315 cloudless days per year. During the most popular chartering season in the Mediterranean, May through November, blue skies and warm weather prevail. Summers are warm and dry whereas winters are very mild with short spells of rain as in the Balearics or Corsica. Sailors must however be careful as the weather can change very quickly.

Here are the dominant winds in Croatia:

* The Bura: A dry, cold wind. As it is a north-easterly, it mainly blows from the east coast of the Adriatic from land to sea. It brings fine weather. Because of the configuration of the land it blows locally with varying force and from various directions ranging from N to ENE. The relief of the east of the Adriatic causes the local bura winds to blow in strong gusts and to begin unexpectedly. The force of the Bura may vary from a light breeze to more intense.

*The Jugo (Sirocco): A warm, humid wind blowing from ESE to SSE. It blows the entire length of the Adriatic coast and brings rough seas. The sky thickly clouds and there is almost always prolonged rain. It reaches its greatest force in the South Adriatic. It can blow at any time of the year. On average it blows at force 16-20 knots.

* The Maestral: By day the land surface gets more heated than the surface of the sea and as a result air currents begin to rise up from the land and at a certain distance are drawn down towards the sea thus causing land-sea circulation. The maestral is usually characterized by white cumulus clouds denoting fine weather. Begins usually to blow between 9 and 10 a.m. and reaches its maximum force about 2.00 pm. It always dies away before sunset. Its usual force is approx. 16-20 knots.

Historical Weather (Averages by month):

	Max temp (°F)	Min temp (°F)	Avg precipitation (mm)	Avg wind speed (knots)	Dominant wind direction  Gorica (Dubrovnik)
January	45	32	139	10	NNE
February	48	34	125	10	NNE
March	54	37	104	10	SE
April	61	45	104	9	SE
May	70	52	75	8	SE
June	77	57	48	7	SSE
July	82	61	26	7	SSE
August	82	61	38	7	SSE
September	75	55	101	8	SSE
October	66	48	162	8	NNE
November	55	41	198	10	NNW
December	46	34	178	10	NNE

Tides

In the Eastern Mediterranean, the tidal range is very small: 30 cm to 60 cm (one to two feet depending on location) including the variation of level due to atmospheric pressure and dominant winds.

In the Eastern Mediterranean, the tidal range is very small: 30 cm to 60 cm (one to two feet depending on location) including the variation of level due to atmospheric pressure and dominant winds.

Weather Forecast

When you arrive at the base, we will provide you with a weather forecast for the next 24 hours. Harbour Offices receive a weather forecast regularly; this is the best and most reliable source of weather information. On your VHF watch channels you can follow the transmitting time of meteorological reports, and navigation warnings.

In modern times, it is common to check the weather forecast online. Check out the official Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service website for more information about Croatian weather. We recommend participating in the local chart and area briefing for the best advice on current weather.