Spring sailing in Croatia

So why go on a yacht charter in spring?

Calmer waters, fewer people - the ideal combination

Do you know how it is in the Croatian marinas in summer? The piers are packed to the brim with boats, the queues for landing are longer than for bananas under socialism and sometimes you feel like you have to fight for a place in the restaurant like Jan Žižek for the Hussite wagon walls. In spring, the situation is completely different.

Most of the crews are still waiting at home by the stove for the first hot days, which makes the berths quieter than Charles Bridge during lockdown. Even the most popular bays can be enjoyed almost to yourself. And that means only one thing - more comfort and less stress.

Pleasant weather - no Sahara or Siberia

Another great advantage of sailing in spring is the ideal temperature. You don't have to fry like a rotisserie chicken in 40-degree heat or fight freezing winds like Amundsen when conquering the South Pole. You simply enjoy the pleasant climate and the fresh breeze in your hair.

In spring, the days are already long enough, the sun is warm and the mild temperatures make for perfect conditions not only for sailing alone, but also for hiking along the coast or cycling to nearby towns.

Lower prices - a joy for your wallet

And then there's that little detail called money. Spring is one of the so-called pre-seasons - and that means lower boat hire prices and cheaper moorings in marinas. Why pay premium summer prices for the same experience?

And what is my experience?

I personally fell in love with spring sailing the first time. When I first went to Croatia in mid-April last year, I was a bit hesitant: "Will it be too cold? Will there even be restaurants open?" But you know what? It was an absolutely great decision.

The empty sea was ours, the weather was perfect (I even caught my first light bronze) and the atmosphere of the small harbours without crowds of tourists was literally fabulous. Plus, we had time to chat with the locals - like Toni, a fisherman from Split, who gave us some secret tips on where to go.

Since then, I wouldn't change and year after year I start my season in spring.

Still hesitating?

If you still doubt the benefits of sailing in the spring ("Haven't we gotten sick enough yet?!"), try this:

• Want a relaxing vacation without the stress of crowds?
• Are you tempted by reasonable boat hire and mooring rates?
• Do you like mild weather ideal for active relaxation?

If you answered yes at least once (and I believe you did), give it a shot. Spring sailing will enchant you as much as it does me.

So what do you think? Are we sailing this spring already?