A motorboat gets you quickly to the islands; a sailboat gets you into the rhythm of the sea. A full-day sailing cruise from Split is a gentle, quiet alternative to the speedboat trips that fill the harbour in summer. Small groups board a yacht or sailing boat, the skipper sets the sails once the boat leaves the harbour, and the route follows the wind through the channels between the islands near Split. There are swim stops in sheltered bays, a lunch on board or at anchor, and time to relax on deck, read, nap or learn a little about sailing if you want to. The experience is closer to a day with friends on a boat than a tour, and it suits couples, families and small groups who prefer calm to speed. You see the coast from a new angle, and the lack of engine noise lets you hear the water and the wind. Sailing days are weather-dependent and the destination depends on conditions, which is part of the charm.
Choose with realistic expectations. Sailing is slower than motoring, so you will cover less distance and visit fewer places than on a speedboat day, but you will spend longer in each bay and have more time to swim and relax. Boats vary in size and style, and some tours are shared among several guests while others are for one party, so check the group size and what is included.
Lunch, drinks and snorkelling gear are often part of the package, but details differ. The skipper decides the route according to wind and sea, and a good one will explain the plan at the start.
What to bring is simple
Sunscreen, a hat, polarised sunglasses, a swimsuit and a towel, a light jacket for the wind and soft-soled shoes or bare feet on deck. If you are susceptible to seasickness, remember that sailing boats heel in the wind, and take a tablet before departure.
Children are welcome on many tours, though young ones need life jackets and supervision. Listen to the safety briefing, keep one hand for yourself while moving around the boat, and ask if you want to take the wheel, since many skippers are happy to let guests try.
Timing and season matter. Summer has the warmest water and the most reliable winds in the afternoon, but also heat and crowds in the harbours. Spring and autumn are cooler and more variable, but the light is lovely and the bays are quiet. Calm days can mean motoring for part of the route, and strong winds can shorten the trip, so allow for changes. Departure is from the harbour near the Riva or a nearby marina, and the return is usually in the late afternoon.
Compare it with other boat days to decide. The island-hopping tours cover more sights, the sunset cruise is shorter and the Blue Lagoon trip is more social, while a sailing day is the most peaceful. If your group wants even more privacy, a private charter is available as a separate option. Whichever you choose, finish with a quiet dinner in Split, because a day of sun, salt and sea air usually brings a deep sleep.
Book early for July and August, when the small boats fill, and ask about the number of guests on board so that you know what kind of day to expect.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day sailing trip from Split on a sailboat, with swim stops in bays between the islands and a relaxed lunch.
Best time
Late spring to early autumn; summer has the warmest sea, and spring and autumn are quieter.
How long
About seven to eight hours on the water.
Tips
Bring sunscreen, a hat, a swimsuit and a light jacket, and take a seasickness tablet if you are prone.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a calm, slower day on the water with fewer crowds.
- Families
- Good for families with children who like boats; life jackets and supervision are important.
- Couples
- A romantic, quiet day with time to swim and talk.
- Pair with
- A relaxed dinner on the Riva, since the day is long.
- Time needed
- A full day, with an early start.
Good questions
Is it a real sailing trip or a motorboat?+
It is a sailboat day, with sails set when the wind allows. On calm days the engine may be used for part of the route.
Is lunch included?+
Often, but products differ. Check what is included when you book.
Can I help sail the boat?+
Many skippers welcome help or let guests steer, but you can also relax and let them do the work.
What if the weather is bad?+
Operators may change the route or cancel in strong wind or storms. Ask about their policy at booking.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes for children comfortable on boats, with life jackets and supervision. Check age rules at booking.
