29 May
istria, sailing

The best time to visit Croatia

The best times to travel

Nobody can guarantee good weather, but if you plan your trip correctly, you have a good chance of plenty of sunshine.
A sailing holiday in Croatia is an unforgettable experience enriched by picturesque coastlines, crystal-clear waters and historic towns. But when is the best time to experience this paradise on the water? The answer depends on your preferences for weather, water conditions and crowds. Here you will find a detailed analysis of the best times to visit Croatia for your sailing holiday.

Spring sailing: April to June

Spring is a wonderful time for a sailing holiday in Croatia. The temperatures are mild and nature comes to life. Air temperatures are between 15°C and 25°C, while the water slowly warms up and reaches around 20°C in June. The harbours and bays are less crowded, giving you a calmer sailing experience. However, the water is still particularly cool in April and May.

High season: July and August

The high season in July and August is the most popular time for a sailing holiday in Croatia. Temperatures are high, often between 25°C and 35°C, and the water reaches a pleasant 25°C to 28°C. This is the best time to enjoy the warm sea and the lively atmosphere of the Croatian coast. Bear in mind, however, that this time of year is the busiest for tourists and it can get crowded in some of the more popular places.

Autumn sailing: September and October

Autumn is another excellent time for a sailing holiday in Croatia. The temperatures are still pleasant, often between 20°C and 25°C, and the water remains warm with temperatures between 20°C and 24°C. The crowds disappear, which makes for a more relaxed sailing time. However, the weather can be changeable and you may be hit by rain clouds. Some tourist attractions are also closing.

Our summary

The best time for a sailing holiday in Croatia depends largely on your personal preferences. Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists, while summer offers the best conditions for swimming and water sports activities. No matter which season you choose, Croatia will delight you with its breathtaking coastline, clear waters and rich cultural history.

Plan your next sailing holiday in Croatia with us and experience the beauty of this sailing paradise at your preferred travel time. You can find more detailed information on the weather at wetter.de

27 May
istria, sailing

Easy anchoring with a sailing yacht / sailing catamaran

Easy anchoring with a sailing yacht

Step-by-step instructions

Anchoring a sailing yacht is a basic skill that every sailor should master. Whether for a relaxing night in a quiet bay or a short break during a sailing trip – correct anchoring ensures safety and comfort. Here we explain in simple steps how to anchor your sailing yacht safely and effectively.

1. Preparation

Before you start anchoring, it is important to prepare thoroughly. It is important to know which anchor you are using. Depending on the anchor, they may be better suited to different bottom conditions. Check the weather conditions and tides to make sure the anchorage is safe. Also pay attention to the ground conditions, as they influence the holding power of your anchor.

Checklist:

  • Check the weather forecast and tide calendar
  • Using maps and GPS
  • Know/observe soil conditions

2. The right anchorage

A good anchorage offers protection from wind and waves, sufficient depth and enough space for swinging (swinging the yacht around the anchor). Look for a quiet spot away from traffic and other boats. Please note that anchoring is not permitted everywhere. Restricted areas are marked on the charts and depending on the GPS version.

Ideal anchorages:

  • Not in restricted zones
  • Away from busy routes
  • Pitches with sufficient depth and even ground conditions

3. The anchor manoeuvre

Once you have chosen the anchorage, approach it slowly against the wind or current. Prepare the anchor and anchor chain and make sure that they can run freely.

Step-by-step instructions:

  1. Travel slowly against the wind or current to the anchorage
  2. Lower the anchor slowly while the boat is travelling slightly backwards
  3. As soon as the anchor has reached the bottom, let out more chain, about 3-5 times the water depth
  4. Reverse to dig in the anchor and check its holding force
  5. Secure the anchor by remaining in position and checking the holding force

4. The anchor chain and the Schwojen

An important component of anchoring is the correct length of anchor chain. As a general rule, the length of the chain laid out should be at least 3 to 5 times the water depth. This ensures that the anchor lies flat on the bottom and provides maximum hold.

Length of chain:

  • At a water depth of 5 metres: lay out at least 15 metres of chain
  • At a water depth of 10 metres: lay out at least 30 metres

Swaying is the natural swinging of the boat around the anchor point. Make sure that there is enough space for the boat to swing safely without colliding with other boats or obstacles.

5. Securing and monitoring

After the anchor is set, check your position regularly to make sure the anchor is holding and the boat is not drifting. Use GPS and visual markers on land to monitor your position. An anchor alarm on the GPS device can also be helpful.

Our tips:

  • Regularly use visual checkpoints on land
  • GPS anchor alarm
  • Keep an eye on weather changes

6. Anchor lights

When it’s time to raise the anchor, sail slowly forwards and haul in the chain. Once the anchor is free, rinse it to remove dirt and debris and stow it safely on board.

Steps:

  1. Drive forwards slowly and retract the chain
  2. As soon as the anchor is released from the bottom, pull it up and clean it
  3. Stow anchors safely

Our summary

Correct anchoring is an essential skill for every sailor. With careful preparation, choosing the right anchorage and precise execution of the anchoring manoeuvre, you can ensure that your sailing yacht is firmly and safely anchored. Follow these simple steps and enjoy relaxing hours on the water!

For specific instructions or even a skipper training session where we practise these skills, please get in touch.

24 May
istria, sailing

Catamaran models for beginners

The 5 best sailing catamaran models for beginners

Find the perfect charter yacht for your next holiday.

Sailing catamarans offer an ideal way for beginners to explore the world of sailing. These yachts are characterised by stability, comfort and ease of use, making them a popular choice. Below we present the five most suitable sailing catamarans for beginners, which impress with their handling and equipment.

1. Lagoon 40

The Lagoon 40 is a compact yet spacious catamaran that is particularly suitable for beginners. With a length of 11.74 metres, it offers sufficient space and comfort. The easy handling and robust materials make the Lagoon 40 a reliable companion for newcomers to sailing. The model also impresses with its good price-performance ratio.

2. Leopard 40

The Leopard 40 is known for its excellent manoeuvrability and stability. With a length of 12.19 metres and a width of 6.72 metres, this catamaran offers plenty of space for families and friends. Beginners will appreciate the intuitive sailing systems and the generous living space. The Leopard 40 is ideal for longer sailing trips and comfortable cruising.

3. Bali 4.1

The Bali 4.1 is an innovative catamaran that impresses with its open-plan living spaces and modern design. With a length of 12.35 metres and a width of 6.72 metres, it offers plenty of space and comfort. The simple controls and well thought-out layout make the Bali 4.1 an excellent choice for beginners who value design and functionality.

4. Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40

The Lucia 40 from Fountaine Pajot is an elegant and well-equipped catamaran that has been specially developed for beginners. With a length of 11.73 metres and a width of 6.63 metres, it offers plenty of space and comfort. Its user-friendliness and high-quality materials make the Lucia 40 a favourite among new sailors.

5. Nautitech 40 Open

The Nautitech 40 Open is a versatile catamaran that impresses with its open-plan living areas and easy handling. With a length of 11.98 metres and a width of 6.91 metres, it offers plenty of space for the crew. The good sailing performance and easy handling make the Nautitech 40 Open an ideal choice for beginners.

Unsere Zusammenfassung

These five sailing catamarans offer beginners a perfect combination of comfort, stability and easy handling. Whether Lagoon 40, Leopard 40, Bali 4.1, Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 or Nautitech 40 Open – each of these models has its own unique advantages that make the sailing experience unforgettable for newcomers. Choose one of these catamarans and enjoy the freedom on the water to the full.

For detailed information on good cruises we recommend our cruising suggestions and will be happy to advise you in person on cruise planning as well as on choosing the right yacht for your charter.

23 May
istria, sailing

Islands of Croatia

The 5 most beautiful islands in Istria

A paradise for sailors
Istria offers an impressive coastline with numerous islands that are perfect for exploring on a sailing yacht. Here we present the five most beautiful islands, which not only stand out for their natural beauty, but also for their extensive history and diverse leisure activities.

1. Brijuni Islands

The Brijuni Islands, an archipelago of 14 smaller islands, are a national park and a true jewel of the Adriatic. With their breathtaking scenery, historical sites and luxurious villas, they are a must-see for any sailor. Visit the main island of Veli Brijun to explore the safari park, visit prehistoric sites or simply enjoy the tranquillity of unspoilt nature. The anchorages are well protected and offer safe overnight accommodation.

2. Sveti Nikola

Just a few minutes from Poreč is the island of Sveti Nikola, which is characterised by its picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island is ideal for day trips and offers numerous activities such as swimming, snorkelling and hiking. A particular highlight is the 19th century lighthouse, which offers a fantastic view of the coast. The marina in Poreč is an ideal starting point for reaching the island.

3. Cres

The island of Cres, one of the largest islands in the Adriatic, is a paradise for nature and sailing enthusiasts. The island is known for its dense forests, hidden bays and historic towns such as Cres and Osor. A special experience is a visit to the freshwater lake Vrana, which is located in the centre of the island. The well-equipped marinas in Cres and Valun offer excellent mooring facilities for sailing yachts.

4. Unije

The small island of Unije is a real insider tip for anyone who wants to relax away from the crowds. With its quiet bays, crystal-clear waters and the charming village of Unije, the island offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxing sailing holiday. The anchorages are safe and offer protection from most wind directions, making the island an ideal destination for sailors.

5. Susak

Susak is one of the most unusual islands in the Adriatic, known for its sandy beaches and unique vegetation. The island has a very special microclimate, which makes it particularly interesting for wine lovers, as excellent wines are produced here. The village of Susak with its narrow streets and traditional houses invites you to take a stroll. The anchorages in front of the island are well protected and allow for relaxed mooring.

Our summary

With its enchanting islands, Istria is a true paradise for sailing enthusiasts. Each island has its own charm and offers a variety of activities ranging from historical explorations to relaxing beach holidays. The well-equipped marinas and safe anchorages make sailing in this region an unforgettable experience. Plan your next sailing route with Vito Nautika and discover the beauty of the Istrian islands!

For detailed information on the best sailing routes and current weather conditions, we recommend consulting our Cruising Suggestions and are also happy to advise you in person.