Mediterranean Sailing Specialists

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Bareboat and skippered sailing charters across Greece, Croatia, Turkey, Spain and Italy. One week, the sea, and nothing else to worry about.

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5
Med countries
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Five countries, endless routes

Greece sailing
Greece
Ionian · Cyclades · Dodecanese · Saronic
Most popular
Croatia sailing
Croatia
Split · Dubrovnik · Šibenik
Best value
Turkey sailing
Turkey
Göcek · Bodrum · Marmaris
Hidden gem
Spain sailing
Spain
Mallorca · Menorca · Costa Brava
Premium
Italy sailing
Italy
Sardinia · Sicily · Amalfi
Luxury

Bareboat or skippered —
you choose how to sail

Bareboat Charter
You hold a valid RYA/ICC qualification, you take the helm. Pure freedom — your route, your pace, your anchorages.
  • Yacht + equipment only — no crew costs
  • Full itinerary flexibility
  • RYA Day Skipper or equivalent required
  • Suitable for experienced sailors
  • Groups of 4–8 typically
From €800/week for the whole boat
🧭
Skippered Charter
An experienced local skipper comes with the boat. You relax, learn, or simply enjoy — no qualifications needed.
  • Professional skipper included
  • No sailing experience required
  • Ideal for families and first-timers
  • Optional cook/hostess available
  • Local knowledge, hidden anchorages
From €1,800/week including skipper

Let's plan your perfect week at sea

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Available this week

One week, five destinations

Every itinerary below is a circular route — you start and finish at the same marina. These are suggestions, not rigid schedules. Weather, crew pace and personal preference always shape the final route.

Nearest airport
Preveza / Aktion (PVK)
~30 min transfer to Lefkas Marina
~3h 15m from London May – October
Direct flights from UK
  • London Gatwick — easyJet, Jet2, TUI
  • London Stansted — Ryanair
  • London Heathrow — British Airways
  • Manchester — Jet2, TUI
  • Birmingham — easyJet
  • Bristol — easyJet
  • Edinburgh — Jet2
BaseLefkas Marina
Total distance~110 nautical miles
Daily avg15–20 nm
Best forBeginners & families
SeasonMay – October
WindMaistros (NW), F2–F4
Day 1
Arrive Lefkas Marina
Check in at 17:00. Dalaman Airport is 90 minutes by transfer, Preveza (Aktion) is 30 minutes. Collect provisions — there's a supermarket in the marina, and a Lidl a 5-minute drive away. Dinner in Lefkas town, a 10-minute walk along the causeway. Briefing from the base team in the morning.
Marina berthProvisioning day
Day 2
Lefkas → Meganisi (Vathi) — 11nm
Motor south through the Lefkas Canal — a scenic 40-minute passage — then hoist sails as the Maistros fills in beautifully by late morning. Meganisi's harbour of Vathi (Little Vathi) is a gem: town quay with water and electricity, excellent gyros tavernas, and a submerged WWII aircraft just off the quay worth snorkelling. Book a table for dinner early.
Town quayGood provisioningSnorkelling
Day 3
Meganisi → Kioni, Ithaca — 20nm
Head southwest past the uninhabited islet of Kalamos towards Ithaca — Homer's island, and one of the most beautiful in the whole Ionian. Kioni is a tiny, picture-perfect village of whitewashed houses and fishing boats. Anchor off or stern-to on the town quay. A wonderfully peaceful spot for the evening — the hillside restaurants come alive as the sun goes down.
Anchor or stern-toHillside tavernasCheck depths
Day 4
Kioni → Fiskardo, Kefalonia — 14nm
A short, beautiful sail across to Kefalonia's northernmost village. Fiskardo is the only village that survived the 1953 earthquake intact — its Venetian architecture is unique in the Ionian. The harbour is popular; arrive by early afternoon for a good berth. This is your furthest point from base: a perfect layover day for swimming, exploring, and a long lunch ashore.
Town quayPopular — arrive earlyVenetian architecture
Day 5
Fiskardo → Sivota (mainland) — 12nm
Cross back north to the Greek mainland coast. Sivota is a charming fishing village in a deep, sheltered inlet surrounded by olive and cypress hills — one of the quieter stops of the week. Stern-to on the quay or anchor in the outer bay. Fresh fish straight off the boats is the order of the evening.
Stern-to or anchorQuiet & shelteredFresh fish
Day 6
Sivota → Nidri, Lefkada — 15nm
Head back north along the coast to Nidri on the east side of Lefkada island — a lively resort town with good restaurants and a busy anchorage. Use the day to do a final swim stop in one of the sheltered bays along the way. Nidri is also the jumping-off point for the scorpios and Sparti islets — worth a circumnavigation under sail.
Anchor or pontoonGood facilitiesSwim stops en route
Day 7
Nidri → Lefkas Marina — 15nm
An easy morning sail back up the channel to Lefkas Marina. Check out by 09:00. Allow time to clean the boat and settle the account — the base team will do a full inventory check. Lefkas town is worth a final coffee and browse before transfers depart.
Check out 09:00Short final leg
Local tip: Porto Katsiki on Lefkada's west coast is one of the most spectacular beaches in Greece — vivid white cliffs, electric blue water. Go by car or water taxi to experience it properly.
Nearest airport
Split (SPU)
~30 min transfer to ACI Marina Split
~2h 30m from London May – October
Direct flights from UK
  • London Gatwick — easyJet, British Airways, TUI, Croatia Airlines
  • London Heathrow — British Airways (year-round)
  • London Luton — easyJet, Wizz Air
  • London Stansted — Jet2, easyJet
  • Manchester — Jet2, TUI, easyJet
  • Liverpool — easyJet
  • Birmingham — easyJet
  • Glasgow — easyJet
BaseACI Marina Split
Total distance~150 nautical miles
Daily avg20–25 nm
Best forFirst-timers & groups
SeasonMay – October
WindMaestral (NW), Bora gusts
Day 1
Arrive ACI Marina Split
Check in at 17:00. Split Airport is 30 minutes by taxi. Saturday is changeover day across all Croatian bases — marinas are busy, so arrive relaxed. Diocletian's Palace is a 15-minute walk and worth an evening wander. Stock up at the large supermarket near the marina — provisioning in the islands is more expensive.
Marina berthProvisioning dayBusy Saturdays
Day 2
Split → Milna, Brač — 12nm
Your first sail, and a gentle introduction to the Dalmatian coast. Milna is a beautifully sheltered bay on the west coast of Brač — one of Croatia's most unspoilt small harbours, with a 17th-century Baroque church and excellent fish restaurants around the quay. Stern-to on the town quay or anchor in the inner bay.
Town quaySheltered bayQuiet & beautiful
Day 3
Milna → Hvar Town — 20nm
The jewel of the Dalmatian coast. Sail south and round the tip of Brač before crossing to Hvar — often called the St Tropez of Croatia. The main town quay is lively and central; the ACI Marina is quieter. The Pakleni Islands just offshore offer excellent swimming anchorages for the afternoon before heading in for the evening. Book dinner — the better restaurants fill fast.
ACI Marina or town quayLively nightlifePakleni Islands swimming
Day 4
Hvar → Korčula — 33nm
The longest sail of the week — an early start rewards you with the Maestral building nicely through the morning. Korčula is often described as Little Dubrovnik: a medieval walled town on a small oval peninsula. Marco Polo was born here, allegedly. ACI Marina Korčula is well-equipped and a short walk from the old town. Wine tip: Korčula is famous for Pošip — Croatia's finest white wine. Try it at source.
ACI MarinaMedieval old townEarly start advised
Day 5
Korčula → Vis (Komiža) — 28nm
Vis is Croatia's most remote inhabited island — until the 1990s it was a closed military zone, which means it's remarkably unspoilt. Head for Komiža on the west coast: a charming fishing village with a Venetian tower, colourful boats, and the best konoba on the island. The Blue Cave on the nearby islet of Biševo is a must — take a tender trip in the morning (best light 10:00–12:00).
Town harbourBlue Cave nearbyMost unspoilt island
Day 6
Vis → Šolta (Maslinica) — 25nm
Head northeast back towards Split, stopping at Šolta — the island closest to Split but surprisingly quiet. Maslinica on the west tip is a lovely small harbour with a restored 18th-century castle now operating as a boutique hotel and restaurant. Good swimming off the islets just outside the bay. A perfect penultimate night — quiet, relaxed, and only 7nm from Split.
Small harbourQuiet island7nm from Split
Day 7
Maslinica → ACI Marina Split — 7nm
An easy final sail back to Split. Check out by 09:00 — the base team will do a full inventory and fuel check. If time allows before your flight, Diocletian's Palace and the Riva waterfront promenade are worth a final visit. Split Airport is 30 minutes from the marina.
Check out 09:00Easy final leg
Local tip: Croatian marinas are busy on Saturdays — that's universal changeover day. Plan your arrivals on other days and you'll find berths easier and harbours calmer.
Nearest airport
Dalaman (DLM)
~20 min transfer to D-Marin Göcek
~4h from London May – November
Direct flights from UK
  • London Gatwick — easyJet, British Airways, TUI, SunExpress
  • London Luton — easyJet, Jet2, Wizz Air
  • London Stansted — Jet2, Ryanair
  • Manchester — Jet2, TUI, easyJet, SunExpress
  • Birmingham — Jet2, TUI, SunExpress
  • Edinburgh — easyJet
  • Glasgow — Jet2, TUI
  • Newcastle — Jet2
  • Belfast — Jet2
BaseD-Marin Göcek
Total distance~130 nautical miles
Daily avg15–20 nm
Best forAnchorages & seclusion
SeasonMay – November
WindLight thermals, SW afternoon
Day 1
Arrive D-Marin Göcek
Dalaman Airport is just 20 minutes by taxi — one of the most convenient transfers in the Med. Göcek itself is a small, upscale town with good provisioning, several marinas and a relaxed atmosphere. D-Marin is the main charter base. Evening in town — the waterfront restaurants are excellent and the Turkish meze a treat.
20 min from Dalaman AirportProvisioning day
Day 2
Göcek → Skopea Limani (Tomb Bay) — 10nm
A short hop into the stunning Skopea Limani bay system — a labyrinth of pine-clad inlets and Lycian rock tombs carved directly into the cliffs. Göbün Cove (Kapi Creek) is a favourite first night: a narrow, almost landlocked creek with a wooden jetty and a small restaurant that serves breakfast by rowboat in the morning. Don't miss it. Mooring is stern-to the jetty — restaurant fees cover the berth.
Restaurant jetty (free with dinner)Lycian tombsBreakfast by rowboat
Day 3
Skopea → Ölüdeniz (Gemiler Island) — 20nm
Head south towards Ölüdeniz — the famous blue lagoon, one of the most photographed stretches of water in the Mediterranean. Anchor off Gemiler (St Nicholas) Island just to the north: a magical spot with Byzantine church ruins tumbling down to the water's edge. Snorkel the shoreline and explore on foot. Overnight on anchor in Gemiler Bay.
Anchor 6–9mByzantine ruinsNo anchoring in lagoon
Day 4
Gemiler → Bozukkale — 25nm
Sail west along the Aegean coast towards the remote bay of Bozukkale — one of the finest natural anchorages on the Turkish coast, with the ruins of a Knights Hospitaller castle on the headland. Almost entirely surrounded by land, it offers exceptional shelter and total tranquillity. Two or three small restaurants on the water offer free mooring with dinner. The furthest point from base.
Restaurant mooringExcellent shelterCrusader castle ruins
Day 5
Bozukkale → Ekincik (Dalyan River) — 18nm
Head northeast back up the coast to Ekincik Bay — the gateway to the Dalyan River delta and the famous Iztuzu beach (Turtle Beach), a protected nesting site for Caretta caretta loggerhead turtles. Take a river taxi upstream to Dalyan town, visit the Lycian rock tombs above the river, and bathe in the sulphur mud baths. An extraordinary day ashore. Anchor in Ekincik Bay overnight — well sheltered.
AnchorDalyan river excursionTurtle beach
Day 6
Ekincik → Göcek Islands (Tersane) — 20nm
Return northeast into the Gulf of Fethiye and explore the Göcek island chain. Tersane Island is the highlight — a natural harbour with the ruins of an old Byzantine shipyard (tersane means shipyard) at its head, crystal-clear water and excellent snorkelling. Stern-to at the small jetty, or anchor off. A perfect penultimate night: calm, beautiful and close to home.
Jetty or anchorByzantine shipyard ruinsExcellent swimming
Day 7
Tersane → D-Marin Göcek — 8nm
A gentle final morning sail back to Göcek through the beautiful Gulf of Fethiye. Check out by 09:00. Dalaman Airport is just 20 minutes away — one of the easiest transfers in the Med.
Check out 09:0020 min to airport
Local tip: In Turkey, many restaurant jetties offer free mooring if you eat with them — and the food is genuinely excellent. It's one of the things that makes a Göcek week feel completely different from Greece or Croatia.
Nearest airport
Palma de Mallorca (PMI)
~15 min transfer to Palma marina
~2h from London Year-round (peak Apr–Oct)
Direct flights from UK
  • London Gatwick — easyJet, British Airways, TUI, Jet2
  • London Heathrow — British Airways
  • London Luton — easyJet, Wizz Air
  • London Stansted — Ryanair, Jet2
  • Manchester — Jet2, TUI, easyJet, Ryanair
  • Birmingham — Jet2, TUI, Ryanair
  • Edinburgh — Jet2, easyJet, Ryanair
  • Leeds Bradford — Jet2
  • Newcastle — Jet2
  • Bristol — easyJet, Ryanair
BasePalma de Mallorca
Total distance~160 nautical miles
Daily avg20–25 nm
Best forScenery & varied sailing
SeasonApril – October
WindTramuntana (N), thermal afternoons
Day 1
Arrive Palma de Mallorca
Palma Airport is 15 minutes from the marina — the easiest transfer in the Med. The city itself is outstanding: La Seu Cathedral, Bellver Castle, and a restaurant scene that rivals Barcelona. Check in, provision, and spend the evening in Palma — there's no rush to leave until the morning.
15 min from airportExcellent city baseProvisioning day
Day 2
Palma → Port d'Andratx — 21nm
Head southwest along the coast, passing the dramatic cliffs of Cabo Blanco. Cala Pi is a narrow, pine-lined inlet en route — a stunning swim stop with turquoise water and white sand tucked behind towering cliffs. Port d'Andratx is a beautiful natural harbour backed by mountains, with a contemporary art centre (CCA Andratx) and relaxed waterfront restaurants. A classic first stop.
Marina or anchorMountain backdropStunning swim stop
Day 3
Port d'Andratx → Port de Sóller — 25nm
The most dramatic sailing day of the week. Round the northwest corner of Mallorca under the UNESCO World Heritage Tramuntana mountains — sheer cliffs dropping straight into the sea, with the Maistros building as you go. Port de Sóller is a near-circular bay, almost completely landlocked, with a historic tram connecting the port to Sóller village. One of the finest natural harbours in the western Mediterranean.
Marina or anchorTramuntana coastlineVintage tram to town
Day 4
Port de Sóller → Cala Formentor — 41nm
The longest leg — an early start is essential. Round Cap de Formentor, Mallorca's dramatic northern cape, where the cliffs fall vertically for hundreds of metres. The bay of Formentor beyond is one of the most beautiful in the Balearics — crystalline water, a pine-fringed beach and the famous Hotel Formentor. Moor on a buoy (book ahead in peak season) or anchor off the beach.
Buoy (book ahead)Earliest start of weekCap Formentor — breathtaking
Day 5
Formentor → Portocolom — 35nm
Head south down Mallorca's quieter east coast — a series of beautiful calas (coves) with white sand and turquoise water. Cala Ratjada is worth a lunch stop. Portocolom is a natural harbour and one of the most authentic fishing villages on the island — colourful boathouses line the inlet, and the Coves del Drach (Dragon Caves) are 10 minutes by car, with an underground lake and classical concerts daily.
Natural harbourAuthentic villageDragon Caves nearby
Day 6
Portocolom → Cabrera National Park — 25nm
Sail south to the Cabrera Archipelago — a protected National Park and one of the great sailing experiences of the western Med. Anchoring requires a permit (book well in advance through the base). The water is among the clearest in the Mediterranean, and the ruins of a 14th-century castle overlook the anchorage. An extraordinary final night under genuinely dark skies.
Permit required — book aheadNational ParkCrystal clear water
Day 7
Cabrera → Palma — 35nm
Depart Cabrera early for a glorious morning sail back to Palma, the city growing on the horizon as you cross the bay. Check out by 09:00. Palma Airport is 15 minutes from the marina — and the city rewards a final coffee and hour of wandering if your flight allows.
Check out 09:00Busy bay — good watch15 min to airport
Local tip: The Cabrera permit fills up quickly in July and August — book it at the same time as your charter, ideally months in advance. Without it, you'll need to reroute on Day 6.
Nearest airport
Athens International (ATH)
~30–45 min to Alimos or Lavrion Marina
~3h 30m from London Year-round
Direct flights from UK
  • London Gatwick — easyJet, British Airways, Aegean, Sky Express
  • London Heathrow — British Airways, Aegean (year-round)
  • London Luton — Ryanair, Wizz Air
  • London Stansted — Ryanair
  • Manchester — Jet2, easyJet
  • Birmingham — Jet2, Ryanair
  • Edinburgh — easyJet
  • Bristol — easyJet
BaseAthens (Lavrion or Alimos)
Total distance~100 nautical miles
Daily avg15–18 nm
Best forCulture & short transfers
SeasonApril – October
WindMeltemi (N–NW), strong in July–Aug
Day 1
Arrive Athens (Lavrion or Alimos Marina)
Athens International Airport is 45 minutes from Lavrion, 30 minutes from Alimos (closer to the city). The Saronic is the closest sailing ground to Athens — compact, beautiful and loaded with history. If arriving at Alimos, the Acropolis is 20 minutes away — worth an evening visit. Provision at the marina supermarkets.
30–45 min from Athens AirportTwo base optionsProvisioning day
Day 2
Athens → Aegina — 18nm
Head southwest across the Saronic Gulf to Aegina — the closest island to Athens and a refreshing contrast to the city. The famous Temple of Aphaia (better preserved than the Parthenon, some argue) is 15 minutes by taxi from the harbour. Aegina is also the home of Greece's finest pistachio nuts — buy a bag at the harbour market. Stern-to on the town quay or at the small marina.
Town quay or marinaTemple of AphaiaPistachios
Day 3
Aegina → Hydra — 27nm
Hydra is unique in Greece — and in the Med. No cars, no scooters, no noise beyond the clip of donkeys on cobblestones. The harbour is one of the most beautiful in the Aegean: a horseshoe of stone mansions rising above the quay. Stern-to on the town quay, or anchor in the outer bay. Book dinner at one of the harbour restaurants well in advance — Hydra is popular.
Town quay or anchorNo cars — donkeys onlyBook dinner early
Day 4
Hydra → Spetses — 15nm
A short sail to Spetses — another car-free island, though with more character and fewer tourists than Hydra. The old harbour (Palio Limani) is charming and the new harbour (Dapia) more convenient. Spetses played a major role in the Greek War of Independence — the Laskarina Bouboulina Museum tells the story. Good beaches accessible by water taxi around the island's coast.
Old or new harbourCar-free islandShort sail — explore day
Day 5
Spetses → Ermioni (mainland) — 11nm
Cross to the Peloponnese mainland and the small town of Ermioni — a low-key, genuinely local Greek town on a pine-covered peninsula with almost no tourism. Excellent fresh fish tavernas on the quay, good swimming off the rocks at the tip of the peninsula, and a calm anchorage. One of the hidden gems of the Saronic.
Town quayLocal & quietExcellent fish
Day 6
Ermioni → Poros — 20nm
Head back north to Poros — separated from the Peloponnese mainland by a channel just 200 metres wide. The town quay buzzes with life and the narrow strait creates a natural theatre for watching the world sail by. Poros is the last lively stopover before the return to Athens. The Clock Tower on the hill is worth the climb for views across the channel.
Town quay200m channelLively atmosphere
Day 7
Poros → Athens (Alimos/Lavrion) — 31nm
Final sail north back across the Saronic. The Meltemi can be lively in July and August on this crossing — check the forecast the evening before and depart early if conditions are building. Check out by 09:00. Athens Airport is 30–45 minutes from the marina. The city deserves at least a night before or after the charter if schedules allow.
Check out 09:00Watch Meltemi forecast30–45 min to airport
Local tip: The Meltemi — the strong north wind that dominates the Aegean in July and August — is less fierce in the Saronic than in the Cyclades, making this the best choice for those sailing in peak summer who want reliable, manageable conditions.
Nearest airport
Olbia Costa Smeralda (OLB)
~20 min transfer to Portisco or Cannigione marina
~2h 30m from London May – October
Direct flights from UK
  • London Gatwick — easyJet, British Airways
  • London Heathrow — British Airways
  • London Luton — easyJet
  • Manchester — easyJet, Jet2
  • Birmingham — Jet2
  • Bristol — easyJet
BasePortisco or Cannigione
Total distance~130 nautical miles
Daily avg18–22 nm
Best forScenery & gastronomy
SeasonMay – October
WindMistral & Maestrale, F3–F5
Day 1
Arrive Portisco or Cannigione
Olbia Airport is just 20 minutes away — one of the quickest transfers in Italy. Portisco and Cannigione are the main charter bases for the Costa Smeralda and La Maddalena archipelago. Both marinas are well equipped and set in spectacular surroundings. Provision well before departing — the islands offer less choice. Dinner ashore in Cannigione village, where the Sardinian lamb and fresh pasta are exceptional.
Marina berthProvision here20 min from Olbia Airport
Day 2
Portisco → Tavolara Island — 16nm
Head south along the coast, passing through the stunning Gulf of Olbia to the dramatic island of Tavolara — a sheer limestone massif rising 564m from the sea, one of the most striking silhouettes in the western Mediterranean. Anchor in the bay of Spalmatore di Terra on the south side, with a white sand beach and water of astonishing clarity. The Ristorante da Tonino Re di Tavolara on shore is a legendary spot — book ahead.
AnchorWhite sand beachFamous restaurant ashore
Day 3
Tavolara → La Maddalena Archipelago (Caprera) — 21nm
Sail north into the stunning La Maddalena National Park — an archipelago of seven main islands surrounded by over 50 smaller islets, all with extraordinary pink granite formations, turquoise shallows and pine forests. Anchor in one of Caprera's sheltered coves. Caprera is the island where Garibaldi spent his final years — his house is now a museum. The waters around the archipelago are some of the clearest in the entire Mediterranean.
National ParkAnchor in covePink granite scenery
Day 4
Caprera → Bonifacio, Corsica — 23nm
The highlight of the week — cross the Strait of Bonifacio into France. Approaching Bonifacio by sea is one of the great arrivals in the Mediterranean: the medieval citadel appears to grow from the top of towering white limestone cliffs, with the harbour entrance a narrow slot through the rock. Once inside, a completely sheltered natural harbour. Walk the cobbled streets of the upper citadel, try the local Corsican charcuterie and a glass of Nielluccio wine. Overnight in Bonifacio Marina.
Bonifacio MarinaMedieval citadelBest arrival in the Med
Day 5
Bonifacio → Lavezzi Islands — 8nm
A short sail to the Lavezzi Islands — a protected Corsican nature reserve of rounded granite boulders and translucent lagoons just north of the strait. Anchor among the islets and spend the day swimming, snorkelling and exploring on foot. One of the most beautiful anchorages in the western Med, and wonderfully peaceful. Return to Bonifacio in the evening for a final dinner ashore, or overnight at anchor in the Lavezzi if conditions allow.
Nature reserve anchorageOutstanding swimmingDay trip from Bonifacio
Day 6
Bonifacio → Palau — 18nm
Cross back south into Sardinia to Palau — a lively port town on the Gallura coast, perfectly placed between the Maddalena archipelago and the mainland. The ferry port gives it energy, and the waterfront is lined with excellent restaurants serving the freshest local fish. The rock formation of the Orso Bear — a granite boulder weathered into the unmistakeable shape of a bear — is a short walk above the town and worth the climb for the views across to Corsica. A relaxed penultimate evening with a good dinner ashore.
Town harbourLively waterfrontViews back to Corsica
Day 7
Palau → Portisco/Cannigione — 15nm
A gentle final sail south along the Costa Smeralda — passing Porto Cervo, the glamorous heart of the Aga Khan's legendary development, with its designer boutiques and superyachts. Stop for a swim in Cala di Volpe if time allows — one of the finest bays on the island. Check out by 09:00. Olbia Airport is 20 minutes from the marina.
Check out 09:00Cala di Volpe swim stopCosta Smeralda
Local tip: The Lavezzi Islands reserve requires you to anchor rather than moor — and the holding is excellent. Go on a weekday morning if you want the place largely to yourself.
Nearest airport
Zadar (ZAD)
~15 min transfer to marina
~2h 25m from London May – October
Direct flights from UK
  • London Gatwick — easyJet (seasonal)
  • London Stansted — Ryanair
  • Manchester — Ryanair
  • Birmingham — Ryanair
  • Edinburgh — Ryanair
  • Leeds Bradford — Ryanair
  • Liverpool — Ryanair
  • Newcastle — Ryanair
  • Bournemouth — Ryanair
BaseZadar Marina
Total distance~130 nautical miles
Daily avg18–22 nm
Best forUnspoilt islands & nature
SeasonMay – October
WindMaestral (NW), Bora gusts
Day 1
Arrive Zadar
Zadar Airport is a short 15-minute drive from the marina — the quickest transfer in Croatia. Zadar itself is one of the most underrated cities in the Adriatic: a peninsula of Roman ruins, medieval churches, Venetian walls and a genuinely local atmosphere. Alfred Hitchcock called it home to the most beautiful sunset in the world. Provision well and spend the evening exploring the old town. The Sea Organ — an architectural installation that uses wave energy to play music — is a short walk from the marina.
Marina berthOld town worth exploring15 min from airport
Day 2
Zadar → Molat (Jaz Bay) — 18nm
Head northwest into the outer islands — a world away from the busier resorts of Split and Hvar. Molat is a quiet, pine-covered island where time moves slowly. Anchor in Jaz Bay, a pristine cove reached by a short walk through the pine forests from the harbour. A small library in the village has thousands of books left by visiting sailors over the decades — a lovely tradition. Exceptionally clear water and almost total seclusion.
Anchor in Jaz BayQuiet islandPine forest walks
Day 3
Molat → Dugi Otok (Sakarun Beach) — 20nm
Sail southwest to Dugi Otok — the Long Island — and head for Sakarun Bay on its northwest coast. Sakarun is one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia: a crescent of white sand in a shallow turquoise lagoon, usually reached only by boat. Anchor off the beach for the afternoon. Overnight in the bay of Veli Rat or Brbinj on the island's eastern side — both have small restaurants and a village atmosphere.
Sakarun Bay anchorOne of Croatia's finest beachesBoat access only
Day 4
Dugi Otok → Kornati National Park — 22nm
The centrepiece of the week. The Kornati archipelago — 140 islands and reefs in a labyrinth of dramatic karst scenery — is one of the most extraordinary sailing destinations in the Mediterranean. George Bernard Shaw described them as the place where "God, on the last day of Creation, desired to crown His work, and thus created the Kornati Islands out of tears, stars and breath." Moor to a buoy or anchor in one of the many sheltered bays. The park entry ticket is purchased at the entrance.
National Park140 islandsPark entry ticket required
Day 5
Kornati → Žut Island — 15nm
Spend a second day in the Kornati area, heading east to Žut — a larger, lusher island with a small marina and excellent anchorages in the surrounding bays. Pod Ražanj bay on the island's south side is a favourite — wonderfully sheltered with a small restaurant. The evening light across the Kornati from here is spectacular. A quiet, unhurried night at the edge of the national park.
Small marina or anchorSheltered bayKornati views
Day 6
Žut → Iž (Veli Iž) — 18nm
Head north back towards Zadar, stopping at the island of Iž — a gentle, unhurried island of olive groves and vineyards, popular with local Croatians and almost unknown to foreign tourists. Veli Iž has a small marina, good tavernas and a character entirely its own. The island pottery tradition dates back centuries — the distinctive Iž pitchers make excellent gifts. A perfect penultimate night.
Small marinaLocal atmospherePottery tradition
Day 7
Iž → Zadar — 18nm
Final sail back to Zadar, with a possible swim stop on the beautiful island of Ugljan en route — its bay of Muline is a lovely, calm finale. Check out by 09:00. Zadar Airport is 15 minutes from the marina. If your flight allows time, Zadar's old town is well worth a final wander — the Roman forum, the Cathedral of St Anastasia, and the Sea Organ are all within a few minutes' walk.
Check out 09:00Ugljan swim stop option15 min to airport
Local tip: The Zadar area is a genuinely different experience from the Split–Hvar–Dubrovnik circuit. The outer islands — Molat, Dugi Otok, Premuda — are quieter, wilder and feel far more like the Croatia of 20 years ago.
Nearest airport
Palermo (PMO) or Catania (CTA)
Portorosa marina: ~2h from Palermo, ~1h from Catania
~3h from London May – October
Direct flights from UK (Palermo)
  • London Heathrow — British Airways
  • London Gatwick — easyJet
  • London Luton — easyJet
  • London Stansted — Ryanair (year-round)
  • Manchester — Jet2
  • Birmingham — Jet2
  • Bristol — easyJet
  • Edinburgh — Ryanair
  • Newcastle — Jet2
BasePortorosa Marina
Total distance~100 nautical miles
Daily avg15–18 nm
Best forVolcanoes, culture & food
SeasonMay – October
WindLight thermals, reliable summer
Day 1
Arrive Portorosa Marina
Portorosa is the largest private marina in Sicily and the main charter base for the Aeolian Islands — a beautifully designed harbour town with restaurants, shops and excellent facilities. Fly to Palermo (2 hours by road) or Catania (1 hour) and transfer to the marina. Provision generously — the islands have limited supplies. Dinner at the marina: try the Malvasia delle Lipari, the sweet amber wine that is the Aeolians' signature drink, served with biscotti.
Marina berthProvision wellTry Malvasia wine
Day 2
Portorosa → Vulcano — 20nm
Sail north to Vulcano — the most southerly of the Aeolian Islands and the one that gives the archipelago its identity. The Gran Cratere volcano dominates the island with its sulphurous steam vents and otherworldly landscape. The black sand beach at Porto di Ponente is a remarkable swim stop, and the famous therapeutic mud baths — fumarole-heated volcanic mud — are a unique experience. Overnight stern-to in Porto di Levante.
Stern-to Porto di LevanteVolcanic mud bathsBlack sand beach
Day 3
Vulcano → Lipari — 5nm
A short hop to Lipari — the largest and most populated of the Aeolian Islands, and the cultural hub of the archipelago. The hilltop citadel, medieval castle and outstanding archaeological museum (with one of the finest collections of Greek ceramics in the world) are worth a full afternoon. The town is lively, the seafood exceptional, and the atmosphere distinctly Sicilian. Overnight in the marina or at one of the town quay berths.
Marina or town quayCitadel & museumBest provisioning stop
Day 4
Lipari → Salina — 10nm
Sail northwest to Salina — the greenest of the Aeolians, with twin volcanic peaks covered in vineyards, capers and malvasia grapes. The bay of Pollara on the island's northwest is one of the most dramatic anchorages in the Mediterranean — a collapsed volcanic crater forming a perfect semicircular bowl. This is where Michael Corleone hid in The Godfather II, and the film Il Postino was shot here. Overnight in Santa Marina harbour.
Pollara bay anchorageFilm locationMalvasia vineyards
Day 5
Salina → Panarea — 12nm
Head east to Panarea — the smallest and most chic of the Aeolians. Just 3km long, Panarea has no cars, beautiful whitewashed houses draped in bougainvillea, and a reputation as the most stylish island in the Mediterranean. Anchor in the stunning Cala Junco bay during the day. The prehistoric Bronze Age village on the headland above is extraordinary. As the sun sets the island transforms — Bar del Porto is the place to begin the evening.
Anchor Cala JuncoCar-free islandBronze Age village
Day 6
Panarea → Stromboli — 15nm
The most dramatic day of the week. Sail northeast to Stromboli — an active volcano rising directly from the sea, erupting every 20 minutes or so with a regularity that has earned it the nickname the Lighthouse of the Mediterranean. Anchor off the black sand beach at Ficogrande and watch the lava flow — the Sciara del Fuoco — glow against the hillside as darkness falls. One of the great spectacles of the natural world, seen from the deck of your own yacht.
Anchor FicograndeActive volcanoLava flows at night
Day 7
Stromboli → Portorosa — 34nm
The longest sail of the week — depart early to make the most of the morning breeze. The return passage south along the Sicilian coast, with the smoking cone of Stromboli receding behind you, is a wonderful way to end the week. Arrive Portorosa by late afternoon. Check out by 09:00 the following morning. Transfer to Palermo (2h) or Catania (1h) for your flight home.
Check out 09:00Longest day — depart earlyStromboli farewell view
Local tip: Catania airport is significantly closer to Portorosa than Palermo — if you can find a direct flight from your nearest UK airport, it saves nearly an hour each way on transfers.

Everything you need
to know before you ask

For bareboat charter you'll need an RYA Day Skipper certificate (or ICC equivalent). For skippered charter, no licence is required — your skipper handles everything. We can help you find a sailing course if you need one.
Bareboat charters start from around €800/week for the whole boat (off-peak, Croatia). Most groups pay €2,000–5,000/week. Skippered charters start from €2,000/week. Split between 6 people, bareboat often works out at €300–600pp for the week.
The price you pay is the same as booking direct with the charter company. You get expert, independent advice and full support throughout your booking at no extra cost.
The charter price covers the yacht and standard equipment. Additional costs typically include a security deposit, marina fees, fuel, provisions, and end-of-trip cleaning. We'll give you a full breakdown before you commit.
The Ionian Islands in Greece are widely considered the best destination for beginner and intermediate sailors — reliable winds, calm anchorages, good infrastructure, and stunning scenery. Croatia's Dalmatian coast is also excellent. We'll guide you based on your experience.
Popular yachts in peak season (July–August) can book up 6–12 months in advance. For more flexibility, June and September are excellent sailing months with better availability and lower prices. We'll always tell you honestly what's available.