Croatia: An Ideal Charter Destination for Luxury Motor Yachts

The Luxury Charter Group team have been fortunate to explore much of Croatia. We're ready to share our local knowledge of some of the more 'off-the-beaten-track' anchorages for those who want privacy.  Alternatively, here are some of the stand-out places we have enjoyed, and some of the private crewed motor yachts available for charter in the Adriatic.  

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is magnificent and is is one of the most important historical and tourist centres of Croatia. This impressive walled city is justifiably known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic", having succeeded in preserving its stunning Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains.

With the sparkling Adriatic Sea on the doorstep it is easy to understand why Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And despite being badly damaged in the 1990s the city has benefited from a major restoration programme co-ordinated by UNESCO and is once again one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the Mediterranean Sea.

While the prosperity of the city was originally based on maritime trade dating back to the 13th Century, today's visitors are charmed with its divine beauty and cultural monuments including the striking town walls and fortresses, churches and monasteries, palaces, and Stradun Dubrovnik's main street. The delightful pedestrian-only old town is home to a myriad of twisting marbled lanes, quirky cafes and top-notch restaurants. To circumnavigate the city wall is a ‘must do’.

Korcula

Korcula’s abundant culture and history helped define its popular name, ‘Little Dubrovnik’. A wonderfully romantic promenade runs through the town by the city walls and is alive with cafes. You can spend the evening exploring this beautiful Dalmatian town and enjoying the gastronomic delights in one of the numerous restaurants.

It is most famous as the birthplace of Marco Polo who was probably born here in 1254, and reminders of him can be seen all around the town, including the extremely interesting Marco Polo Museum. Today Korcula is a town where you can vividly feel the Mediterranean spirit of people who live and work in this mixture of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture.

Vis

Since its time as a Roman outpost, Vis was one of the most historically significant islands in the Adriatic. Home to some of the best restaurants in the region, dozens of beautiful bays, a top diving spot and some of the best beaches in the country this island has something for everyone. In addition to a still thriving fishing industry the island of Vis is also known for it's wine-making and you should definitely try their Vugava, a local white wine.

The Island was also one of the best kept secrets of the former Yugoslavian government being off-limits to foreign citizens as a significant Army base. It has emerged from a long period of isolation with untouched natural beauty. From here you can do a tour of the island including visiting a cave where former leader Tito hid out during WWII and enjoy a peka (a traditional Croatian meal of meat or octopus and vegetables slow baked in the embers of a fire) for lunch in a countryside restaurant.

Hvar Old Town

The Old Town of Hvar, was once a wealthy Venetian trading port, and today one of the most fashionable places to be seen on the Adriatic. Island Hvar, once alluded to as the "Santorini" of Croatia due to its much photographed Venetian architecture, offers a mix of culture and a vibrant restaurant and café life. It is worldly known for its wild night life and numerous elite bars, restaurants and hotels where many celebrities have enjoyed themselves. Despite its commercial popularity, Hvar has nevertheless maintained its authenticity. It is equally well known for its rich cultural and historical heritage and it will be a real treat for guests of all ages.

The Pakleni Islands

Opposite Hvar Town are a gorgeous cluster of offshore islets that are among the best the Adriatic has to offer. The Pakleni Islands offer crystal-clear waters, hidden beaches and deserted lagoons. The largest of the Pakleni Islands by far is Sveti Klement, which supports three villages in its 5 sq km. Palmižana village has a marina, accommodation, restaurants and a pebbly beach. One renown restaurant is Laganini which has a really cool scene and brilliant cuisine cooked by one of Croatia's top chefs and winner of numerous culinary awards.

Vrboska

Vrboska is a real gem and one of our favourite little towns. Located at the head of a deep bay this lovely little village, nicknamed "Little Venice", has a canal running through it. With charming stone bridges, gorgeous canal-side stone houses and traditional lantinas moored in the harbour this place is a photographer's dream. You can also visit the small family winery Vina Caric which has a tasting room in the village.

Split

Split is the cultural and economic centre of Central Dalmatia with a warm Mediterranean temper. The city faces the seafront, the 'Riva' boulevard that comes alive every evening. You can’t help but feel the sense of family as young and old, well-dressed, stroll, interact and play together.It is a regular ‘catwalk’, where one goes to see … and be seen! 

Split is steeped in history. It's fortress-like complex at its centre, Diocletian's Palace, was erected by the Roman emperor in the 4th century together with the Cathedral of St. Domnius which is today the heart and soul of the city. Once home to thousands, its sprawling remains include more than 200 buildings. Within its white stone walls and under its courtyards and galleries are shops, bars, cafes, cathedrals, hotels and several houses. And there is a wonderful choice of very good restaurants. 

Trogir

This is a UNESCO's Historic city; a pearl of the Adriatic. Trogir is a town-museum in the very meaning of the word. It is a charming Mediterranean seaside town attracting visitors from all over and inviting them to explore its historic walkways. Despite the modern rhythm of life, it has conserved its unique historical core, the attractiveness of its boutiques, old-fashioned galleries and garden restaurants thrive whilst the daily life of locals living inside these historic walls carries on regardless.

For further information about Croatia

Here are just four of the stunning luxury motor yachts available for charter in Croatia this summer. There is limited availability but it's still not too late to book.  

AQUILA

At 281ft (85.6m) and comprising six spacious decks, superyacht AQUILA is an imposing and impressive sight on water. This magnificent motor yacht is equipped with all the luxurious amenities required for 5-star charter vacations for up to 12 guests in eight lavish suites. 

Each of the deck spaces have been reconfigured to allow for an al fresco lifestyle, with multiple dining options, sunbathing and socialising: the bridge deck with its sunbathing areas forward, sundeck with lounge areas and the main aft deck is devoted to relaxation with a jacuzzi, sun beds and two dining spaces. 

The beach club boasts a fully equipped gym, along with an array of watertoys. For family movie nights, the acoustically perfect cinema screens the latest releases, or for complete indulgence to unwind during your charter, the on board masseuse in one of the two spa areas can provide therapeutic and aesthetic treatments.

KATHARINE

Elegant and laden with features, 201ft (61.3m) Italian-built motor yacht KATHARINE offers her 12 charter guests the best of all worlds: six impeccably crafted suites, classic interiors, absolute comfort and generous outdoor spaces.

The expansive sun deck boasts a large jacuzzi, spacious seating area, sunbeds and dining for 12 at a shaded table which is ideal for alfresco meals and entertaining. The upper aft deck is also brilliant for casual dining or pre-dinner cocktails, while the main deck aft lounge offers comfortable seating for socialising.

KATHARINE has an opulent interior that was created by designer Francois Zuretti, and in 2017, updated by Marie Meko, blending classical timber and luxuriant fabrics to create warm and welcoming social spaces.

VA BENE

155ft (47.5m) VA BENE offers 5-star accommodation and amenities for up to 12 charter guests in six beautifully appointed suites looking for laid-back luxury and exceptional service.

The sublime sundeck on VA BENE provides a jacuzzi, barbecue and sunbathing area, while the large swim platform allows easy access to the water or tenders for onshore excursions and towing. On her spacious aft deck, there is a tranquil dining and social space which flows into the main saloon for seamless entertaining.

VA BENE's interior is contemporary in style with extensive use of white and cream lacquered surfaces, limed oak, mirrors and a serene ambience. Her living areas offer great capacity for entertaining in comfort and style; the main saloon is vast, with a number of different seating areas, while the formal dining room can seat up to 14 guests.

HER DESTINY

HER DESTINY is a 122ft (37m) Dutch-built Heesen charter yacht, with a sleek and sporty exterior complemented by a bright, modern and luxurious interior with accommodation for up to 12 charter guests in five elegant cabins.

On the spacious sun deck, the jacuzzi area has large sun pads to and sun lounges for guests to relax and enjoy quiet moment aboard HER DESTINY. Dining with panoramic views and privacy is equally relaxing at the dining table with optional awnings to cover the whole area for sun protection.

With interior design by Laura Pomponi, HER DESTINY is decorated in a soothing palette of white, timber and stainless steel, creating a cocoon of tranquillity for her guests.

These are only a very small selection of the range of motor yachts available for charter in Croatia. In addition there are a large array of catamarans, gulets and sailing yachts available. Just contact the team at Luxury Charter Group and we will be happy to find the yacht that is just right for you to experience this sensational destination.