About Sailing in Croatia

General Information

Climate

Sun, cloud coverage and rainfall

Average temperatures

Depth and marking

Clarity of water, colors and saltiness

Seabed structure

Visibility

Weather, winds and waves

Modern marinas

Sailing Knowledge

Check-in time on the boat

Deposit, etc.

Navigation and chart

Practical details for sailing

Bunkering of supplies and fuel

Travel Insurance

Environmental aspects

Reports and weather outlook

Return of the boat and equipment

Emergency and rescue services

Clothing, sun protection and hygiene

General Information

Citizens of the EU do not need a visa for travelling to Croatia. There is no limit on the amount of currency a person can bring into the country, and reasonable amounts of costly equipment are allowed. However, if it seems overly or suspiciously valuable then customs will make a note of it in your passport, in order to guarantee the exportation upon departure.

The currency in Croatia is the Kuna, which is locked against the Euro. Credit cards are nowadays a very common form of payment in croatian cities and smaller towns. The banking system is excellent, but it can take time to make a transaction when there are several other people wanting to do it at the same time.

Croatia is in the Central European time zone.

A few facts:

Geographical position: Croatia stretches from the eastern edges of the Alps in the northwest, to the Pannonian Plain and the banks of the Danube in the east, its central part is covered by the Dinara mountain range, while its southern part reaches the coast of the Adriatic Sea.
Population: 4.437.460
Capital: Zagreb (population 779.145) - economic, traffic, cultural, and academic center of the country.
Area: The mainland part covers an area of 56.594 km2, and the surface area of the territorial sea is 31.067 km2.
Coastline: 5.835 km; of which 4.058 km accounts for islands, rocks and reefs. The Croatian coastline with its 1.244 islands, rocks and reefs, ranks among the most indented coastlines. It has 47 inhabited islands. The largest ones are Krk and Cres.
There are a total of 600 lighthouses, coastal and harbour lights.
Coastal radio stations: Rijeka Radio, Split Radio, Dubrovnik Radio

Along the coast there are more than 800 bays and marinas suitable for yachts and boats. The Adriatic Sea represents the most deeply protruding arm of the Mediterranean, being connected to it by the Strait of Otranto. The Adriatic Sea spreads in the direction southeast-northwest at a length of 870 km, with an average width of 160 km. The territory of the Republic of Croatia is encircled by 48% of the coastal belt and 97% of coastline around the islands of the Adriatic Sea. The Mediterranean tidal wave lasts 12 hours, entering the Adriatic through the Strait of Otranto, spreading north and circulating along the eastern and western coast. The height of the tidal wave is 25 cm at the Strait of Otranto and up to 80 cm in the far north.

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Climate

The Adriatic Sea along the Dalmatian Coast offers a pleasant Mediterranean climate with clear, hot summers and mild, humid winters.
Spring, summer and autumn are similar to great Scandinavian summer days, yet much warmer. Spring (March-April) passes very quickly into summer (may-september), and is followed by a warm autumn (October-November).
The humidity over both land and sea is normally about 75%, and together with the prevailing NW "Maestrale" wind, makes for pleasant circumstances, even during the hottest summer days.
Winter (december-february) offers good conditions for the experienced sailor, with daily temperatures rarely below that of the water, but usually with stronger winds.
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Sunshine, cloud coverage and precipitation

The Adriatic is not called "The Sunny Adriatic" for nothing. Eight to twelve hours of daily sunshine from April to October is quite normal. The number of hours of sunshine per year is estimated at 2700, which is the highest amount in Europe.
Clouds and rain are therefore less common, especially during the summer months. Light cloud coverage and brief showers can of course occur, but they are usually transient. Rainy periods are more common between October and March.
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Average temperatures

The Adriatic Sea is ranked as one of the world's warmest oceans. The following figures show average temperatures measured since tourism began in the 60th century. Summer temperatures often reach 35 to 40° C during the month of august, and the water temperature varies between 24-26° C. The temperature difference between the northern and southern Adriatic Sea can be up to 6 - 8° C.
During spring and summer, the water temperature is naturally colder than that of the air temperature, but in winter the water temperature is usually 1 - 3° C warmer than that of the air. Notably, the water temperature at the greatest depths of the Adriatic Sea (just below 1000 m) never exceeds 11 - 13 ° C, and has a steady temperature of 18 - 19 ° C at roughly 70 m depth. 

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Currents and tides (algal blooming)

The currents along the coast are insignificant from a navigational point of view. During the summer the stream moves north along the Dalmatian coast and up towards the Istrian peninsula and Trieste, turning at the Po delta and then strongly south. This means that the spread of algae blooms affect the Italian coast much more than the Croatian. Mucilage is an unpleasant phenomenon that emerges with oxygen deficiency caused by industries and farms dumping emissions into rivers, or directly into the sea.

A minimal amount of this algal bloom may interfere with the swimming water in Istria, but it is very rare, and never approaches the waters where our guests sail. The tidewater varies between approximately 1 mile north of the Adriatic Sea to the central area, and from 45 - 50 cm in the south.
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Deep-sea and marking

The specified depths on the charts are accurate with a tolerance of 0.5 meters deep along the coast, which is sufficient for ocean-going vessels. The maximum depth is outside Dubrovnik at 1210 m. Otherwise, the Adriatic Sea is a relatively shallow, inland sea with the average depth along the central and southern Dalmatian coast being 60 - 70 m.
More than 450 lighthouses are placed long the coast  between 36 manned lighthouses (this data is from 1985 but we have noticed that several important lighthouses have appeared since then, for example ones near our marinas), 200 coastal lighthouses, 40 radio/light beacons (3 of them being in direct contact with Italian dito), 20 light buoys, 150 fairway marks, etc. in addition to over 300 permanent entry light / light beacons. The coverage is ample considering that the Croatian coast is very calm and there isn't very much to warn about.

The Croatia sea chart has international marking similar to our own. It can be difficult to deduce the lighthouse characters because of differences in language, but it's not too difficult to understand. There is an 'Adriatic pilot' which provides descriptions of places in english, so that any misunderstandings can be cleared up.

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Water vision, colors, and salinity

Seeing the water and colors of the Adriatic Sea is quite an experience. Depth visibility varies from 10 to 18 meters in the north, 16 - 30 meters in the central region, and 20-40 meters in the south Dalmatian coast. Channels and passages between the islands usually have a depth between 10-30 meters. The colors of the water represent a spectrum of yellow, green, light-and dark-blue, forming a symphony of azure, which rises from a rich, beautiful fauna of plants, fish and shellfish. The Adriatic sea is also one of the most salty inland seas with 3.8% saline.
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Seabed structure

The seabed consists predominantly of three segments: a layer of sand, one with sand mixed with fine soil particles and one with soil particles mixed with clay. The structure of the sea bottom allows for normal anchor mooring in most bays and harbors, etc. Some areas have a rock bottom and are not recommended for overnighting, especially if the weather forecasts are particularly unsafe. 

All charter boats have 2 types of anchors. One electric and one reserve with rope. It should be mentioned that the mooring in some ports (and all marinas) is stern towards the shore and stern anchoring on the bottom. (For more details see the section on marinas).
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Visibility

Visibility is usually excellent. A visibility of 20-30 km is normal, and rarely is it less than 5-10 km. During calm summer mornings some haze can occur, but it quickly disappears when the sun rises and the winds begin to pick up.

Fog is very rare during the summer period and occurs only during autumn and winter. Statistics show that the area from Bar in the south, to Kamenjak in the south tip of the Istrien peninsul) can sometimes get foggy for 2-8 days every year. On the other hand, it is more common in the northern Adriatic sea (near Trieste and Venice) to have 20-30 days of fog per year.

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The winds of the Adriatic

Normally, the weather reports and warnings are issued by the weather service via VHF  and marinas. It can be of interest to learn the local terms for the winds since they are well-known and common topics of discussion among the coastal population. If you need to orientate yourself with the local winds but are unable to communicate in the local language, knowing the names of the winds can be very helpful when asking for assistance.

Maestral (northwesterly)

The maestral affects 75-80% of the pleasant summer weather in Croatia. It is a light northwesterly sea breeze that appears in periods of high air pressure, usually around 11 am, and brings good weather. It starts out as a morning breeze of 4-5 m/sec and culminates up to 8-9 m/sec before dying down in the late afternoon. The Maestral can sometimes be preceded by the Levanat, which is a coastal wind with winds up to 10 m/sec. Or it might be preceded by the friendly Juzin, which is a SE coastal wind.  After the Maestral comes the light inland breeze, Burin, from the NE. 

Bora (northeasterly)

Bora is a strong northeasterly wind that appears in periods of high air pressure, it blows from the mainland towards the sea in powerful gusts. It is difficult to predict in spite of the early warning signs: the coastal mountain peaks are covered by small clouds and the sea surface in the northeastern part spumes. The greater the distance from the coast, the weaker the force of the gusts is. In summer the bora usually blows only a few hours, but sometimes it can last up to a day or two. It can be extremely strong in the Kvarner area, along the Velebit Channel, and around Šibenik, Split, Pelješac and Dubrovnik.

Jugo (southeasterly)

Jugo (scirocco) is a warm and humid southeasterly wind that brings a lot of rain from October to the end of January. Calm sea and a heavy cloud cover in the south are signs of the jugo slowly approaching and raising high waves. The jugo often blows for several days (in summer up to 3 days, in winter up to 3 weeks), while rough seas can last for a longer period. From time to time this wind also brings the reddish-brown sand from Africa. It should be remembered that the jugo can change its direction in just a few minutes and turn into a very strong bora (northeasterly wind). The jugo is a typical wind of the Southern Adriatic where it lasts longer than in its northern part.

Nevera

Nevera is a very strong westerly wind that brings bad weather. It mostly blows in summer. It strikes suddenly and vehemently making the sea rough, but most of the time it does not last long. It is usually accompanied by thunder. When its stops blowing the air is fresh and pleasant. It is most common in the Northern Adriatic.

Other winds in the Adriatic are:

Lebić – southwesterly,

Levant – strong southeasterly,

Tramontana – cold northerly.

High and stable air pressure usually brings winds that during the night blow from the mainland, while the daily winds blow from the sea.
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Modern marinas

Along the Croatian coast are about 60 modern very well equipped marinas. But, they are not cheap  for overnight stay. During the 2009 season does a 38 'sailboat in Swedish kronor 4-500 per night depending on the marina is calling. In return, offered fine quays, fresh shower, toilet and washroom, fresh water and electrical outlet 220 V with European contact. (Water hose and electric cable exists in the charter boat).  When arriving in the marine, it is usually someone who directs the site. You go and call at the stern to quay. i.e. you back in when the docks are low and modern boats have swim platform to facilitate the and boarding. Leaving in the first place over a stern mooring and may return in a thin line which after a few meters will be a sharp counter mooring. It goes without saying that it takes the forward and put an order to have a bit beyond the aft berth. Then with the help of a stern mooring around a skotwinch pull the boat against the quayside. Remember to add fendert between berth and aft. That way you get the boat easy to be stretched between moorings consent of light, and boarding for all. Aft moorings can be found through the rings in the dock back to tie in your own boat. When the mooring is ready to submit to charter boat sailing records submitted in the marina reception where they retrieved before departure on payment of duty Marine. This is a guarantee that visiting boats are not only "takes off" after his visit, when you use all the facilities. So do not forget to solve the shipping papers! To sail without paper board can be much more costly when a check is made. Which happens. All marinas and harbor offices were allocated by the weather outlook for 24/48/72 hours. future. Recommended is to primarily seek out natural harbors and only make short visits to marinas to meet the health, water tank and perhaps bunker fuel or buy necessities. A short visit costs less. And a natural harbor is an awful lot more beautiful than that, especially during peak season, and be squeezed into a marina with all European nationalities. While it should be mentioned that the visit to the port cities now also is charged in most places. But this is compensated very well by the incredibly facile prices experienced in all business locations. Very cheap compared to our country.
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Sailing Skills

License or skipper letters and VHF certificate are required to rent a boat in Croatia. A crew list shall be completed and sent to us 14 days before departure. Crew List listing all occupants and who is responsible. It is unfortunately so that skills evidence yet brought home but forgotten, it will be to take a course in resp. Harbor Master, which can take both one and two days depending on when he has time. And one or two days in port when you are on vacation .....
And alcohol! Is it that the skipper is not "in shape" will not leave the boat until a change has come about. Our representative has the right to reject people. A boring interjection but BECAUSE of alcohol did not fit well on the lake until after you have tied down, reminiscent of this.
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Check the charter boat

Arrival date at the marina may depend on how to get down to the Croatia / Dalmatia and charter boat. Unless otherwise agreed, which is almost impossible, at least during the season and in terms of sailboats, it is invariably embarkeringsdag Saturdays. Will be down to the marina earlier than a Saturday, so the hotel option if you do not have caravans, tents or choose to sleep in the open air which is quite possible during the summer season.
Once arrived to the charter boat to report it himself and his crew. In contrast obtained an inventory which first examines himself and then when the boat is taken into possession goes through with a representative at the same time instructs the charter boat's features.
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Deposit, etc.

Is everything as shown on the inventory signed the same and deposit is paid the equivalent of the insurance deductible. The deposit varies in size depending on which boat you choose. The deposit will be arranged with that the marina staff draws a slip of a credit card. This slip/counterfoil will be returned upon return of the charter boat, provided no damage was caused and the inventory is intact. While the skipper is dealing with this process is activated preferably other crew to act in the necessary supplies. In each case, for the first few days. The marina has a small "market" (open every day during the season between 8-12 and 17-20) who have what it takes. Keep in mind that charter boat when disclosure is empty except from cooking and frying utensils, cutlery, kitchen towels 2 pcs., glass, china and linen. Hence, you must buy toilet paper, detergent, oil and vinegar etc. If you do not after reading this take away from home ... good idea. If you have no Croatian currency exchange can take place in the Marina main reception without all the high-conversion fee. Each charter boat is equipped with an inflatable boat. If you want an engine to this, do not hesitate to call costs. The same applies spinnaker as well as furnished at a cost. (see price list).
Eventually, all depending on how many crews arriving on the same day, you get their permission to sail crew list. You can now choose to visit the marina, excellent shower facilities and pretty decent Restaurant or to leave right away out to sea.
As a last call reminded that boat sailing permit/crew list is a valuable document and not be forgotten while visiting marinas. Upon return of the charter boat should be sailing permit.
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Navigation and chart

Navigation in the Adriatic Sea and Different Archipelago is easy. Although the above-orientate themselves in daylight without any problems thanks to the band's coastal topography and the excellent visibility. Depths are generous and the basis scarce.
Fairways are excellent by international regulations. Navigable waters are well marked and a complete set with 29 charts in scale 1: 100 000 are on board in addition to the book "Adriatic Pilot" descriptive entire Dalmatian coast.
In addition, navigation cutlery, bearing compass (?), GPS, Speed and depth sounder, wind speed and angle of sailboats etc. 
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Practical details before, during and after sailing

Experience shows that those who are well prepared may get the most out of their marine holiday. Apart from Croatia Yacht Charter with good experience of sailing along the Dalmatian coast of Croatia and the mainland, will be pleased to provide you with information so the Croatian National Tourist Board, Kungsgatan 24, 3tr. Sthlm tel. 08-534 820 80 more brochures if desired.
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Bunkering of supplies and fuel

On return of the boat it needs to to be fully replenished. I takes quite a while to fill upp the boat and it might be crowded. Plan the refueling especially during highseason. One advice is that you stay in the marina the last night before the boat is returned. Expect a fuel consumption 3 - 6 liters per hour, depending on the size 33' till 51 '. If the boat is not fueled by the return a service fee of about 30-50 Euro will be charged.
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Travel Insurance

Personal Insurance is not included in boat insurance. A personal travel insurance is definitely recommended if not found in the travelers' home insurance. Do not forget that Croatia is still outside the EU. It feels safer in all respects to have a proper insurance coverage when you're outside of Sweden regardless of accident occurs, or not.
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Environmental aspects

When sailing in Croatia/Dalmatia you are in a country where the right of public access applies fully. (see previous comment). Completely unspoiled coastline that Croatians are very proud of. Clean and beautiful. Not like some other Mediterranean countries with bared dumps and semi-finished buildings in perpetuity. Obviously, we show the same consideration and good sense as in home waters and use sealed plastic bags, observe restriction to make fire and littering. Western european sailors have a high status in these waters, for good seamanship when it comes to piloting their boats and for good behavior.
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Reporting and weather outlook

As mentioned earlier, is found in all the marinas and at other ports of dignity in the port captain today's weather envelope and projections 24, 48 and 72 hours ahead. If you have not visited any marine or port captain can make good on the current weather outlook by listening on VHF Channel 67 (Splits navigation area) of each half-hour broadcast-date info in English, German, Italian and Croatian. There is a band that tells which is updated 5-6 times per day.
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Return of the boat and equipment

When the boat after the charter period returned the marina is contacted. You can if you want to call in advance by phone that works great. Together with the representative can be re-inventory and check again that all equipment is intact against what they acknowledged the print. While there is a man in the water snorkeling around the bottom check for any reason contact has come about. The boat is, as mentioned earlier, returned to full tank. Otherwise charged fuel consumed by what the meter shows, and when the lessee is clearly the loser. Sub spent fuel + cost of ythyraren tanks up the boat! The boat does not need to be cleaned. The charter is part of the rent. Obviously, however, it returned in decent condition. And, the boat will be back in the marina last Friday. 18.00 with a right to stay Saturday 09.00. Before the boat left check carefully that no personal belongings is left behind!
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Emergency and rescue services

At an upcoming emergency can in different ways ambient attention is sought. If there are boats nearby you skream and wave it with your arms up and down. If there is no one in reach of sight but within earshot there are flares and rockets to resort. And charter boat's VHF radio to indicate the boat's name and position, then the damage nature. However, before you go so far to be using the tools listed above binding of other boats to speed to help, you should first assess how much help the need requires. Can you get to shore or in port by yoursleves it is obviously the best. To abandon your own craft, many times, perhaps because of linguistic misunderstanding unfortunately take much longer to reach help at these latitudes. In this connection should be mentioned that Croatia has very effective coastguard units with well-distributed along the entire coastal strip to provide assistance if required. Not just fast corvettes, but helicopters and seaplanes there to put on an accident should occur. In an emergency, who is also the general call always used channel 16 on VHF. Be called on May Day and all other traffic must stop until the boat's name and position indicated, and then the extent of damage. Even people with VHF certificates in a stressed situation, forget the discipline which the recipient makes clear a distress call. VHF radio on board, have one-touch channel 16 and also 2-channel monitoring. Croatian coast and islands offer a protected sailing with its ribbon of islands before the ocean begins. Buoyancy aids of approved model is on board for the whole crew who is also the safety harnesses. Child Life Jackets are available but by special request. Best takes with it's own that fits.
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Clothing, "sunblock", hygiene

Plan and pack your clothing accordingly. Spring evenings can be chilly and a wind-jacket or cardigan can be of use when the sun sets. But what is crucial is a good sunscreen with a high protection factor. A thin sweater with a "turtleneck", long arms, and hat. In particular, April-May to June sun is incredibly strong. Watch out for this. Towels is a must especially when sunbathing on deck, smeared with suntan lotion. It is easy to slip with bare feet and Fairlead cleats and hurts. Onboard you have  blankets, pillows and bed linen. But no towels in addition to the kitchen ditto. There are showers in every toilet but it is better, for everyone's comfort, to use the shower on the swimming platform, or the ones in port. Croatia is not a water poor country. Tap water may well be drunk, but bacterial flora is different for the sensitive and can cause problems. During the hottest summer months are recommended strictly bottled water. And finally. It is not necessary to have vaccine to go sailing in the Adriatic. If you know of that it wont be an upset stomach as a gamma globulin injection may be useful.
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