September in Croatia. We adore it. We love everything about it – its sunsets, sea temperature, outdoor options, uncrowded destinations. Honestly, September is our favorite month because of so many things. We used to organize adventure tours in Croatia for 8 seasons, and September was the only month in which we could slow down and take a bit of time for ourselves and taste the end of the summer in Croatia. This article will be all about sailing in Croatia in September, which we believe is the month for great sailing adventures.
September in Croatia is characterized by warm temperatures, steady winds, fewer crowds, and lower prices . As such, it’s the perfect time for an unforgettable sailing adventure along the stunning Adriatic coast. Although we are not professional skippers, we did a few sailing trips in Croatia and the longest one was sailing from Istria to the city of Ploče in southern Croatia in a total if 5 days.
Why Sail in Croatia in September? As we already mentioned in the introduction, September is great for many things, including sailing. Here’s what to expect out of it:
Ideal Weather Conditions: Warm but not hot, averaging 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F) .Warm Sea Temperature: The best thing about September is that the sea remains warm at 22°C to 24°C (72°F to 75°F) . Perfect for swimming and snorkeling.Fewer Tourists: The summer crowds have mostly left Croatia by now, making marinas and anchorages more available.Lower Costs: Yacht charter rates drop by 20-30% in September compared to peak season.Better Winds for Sailing: More reliable winds like the Mistral , create perfect conditions for sailing in Croatia in September.
Weather & Wind Conditions in September Overall the weather is very pleasant and everybody breathes easier after 2 months of hot weather in Croatia. September is the month to unwind, relax, and prepare for the upcoming winter. Keep in mind that temperatures can be a bit lower on the sea, especially during the night.
Daytime Temperature: 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F) .Nighttime Temperature: 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) .Wind Conditions:
Mistral (Maestral) Wind: A steady northwestern wind that provides great sailing conditions in the afternoon.Bora (Bura) Wind: A dry, cold wind that occasionally blows from the northeast. The strongest wind in Croatia.Jugo Wind: A warm and humid wind from the south, bringing occasional rain and high waves on the sea.
Best Routes for Sailing in Croatia in September There are no limits when you want to sail in Croatia and you can go wherever you want to. Still, we are going to present you with some of the best and most chosen sailing routes in Croatia.
1. Split to Dubrovnik Route The route connects the 2 most famous cities on the Dalmatian Coast. One of the favorite sailing routes in Croatia.
Best for: Exploring historic towns, island hopping, and swimming in secluded bays.Highlights:
Hvar – Vibrant nightlife and historic charm.Korčula – The birthplace of Marco Polo with medieval architecture. Often nicknamed as ‘Little Dubrovnik .Mljet National Park – A nature lover’s paradise with saltwater lakes and many places to visit all across the island.Dubrovnik – The most famous historic town in Croatia with stunning old town walls and UNESCO-protected Old Town.
2. Kornati National Park Route Kornati is one of the 3 island-based national parks in Croatia (with Mljet and Brijuni being the other two) and it consists of many small islands perfect for sailing adventures in Croatia.
Best for: Nature lovers and remote island exploration.Highlights:
Kornati Islands – Over 80 untouched islands and reefs.Telašćica Nature Park – A stunning bay with cliffs and salt lakes.Zadar – A historic city with beautiful sunsets and famous sea organs.
3. Istria & Kvarner Bay Route Istria is the largest peninsula in Croatia and the land of gastronomy delight and some of the best wines in Croatia.
Best for: Gastronomy, history, and a relaxed sailing experience.Highlights:
Rovinj – A picturesque coastal town with Venetian charm.Brijuni Islands – A national park with Roman ruins and rich wildlife.Cres & Lošinj – Islands are known for crystal-clear waters and dolphin sightings.
Sailing Costs & Budgeting in September Let’s talk money, shall we? The prices we will mention below are just estimates and they change rather quickly nowadays. Still, when it comes to sailing in Croatia in September, you can expect lower prices than during the peak season.
Yacht Charter: €1,500 – €6,000 per week (depending on boat type and size).Marina Fees: €50 – €120 per night in major ports, lower in less crowded areas.Fuel Costs: Around €100 – €300 per week, depending on your route.Food & Dining: €30 – €70 per person per day for meals and drinks.
Packing List for Sailing in Croatia in September Before you start packing, here are just some things you would need for sailing in Croatia during this period:
Light clothing for warm days. Windbreaker or light jacket for cooler evenings. Swimwear for swimming and snorkeling. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen). Comfortable deck shoes with non-slip soles. Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated. Power bank for charging devices while at sea.
Tips for Sailing in September Those who tip are the best. Here are some tips for you:
Book Your Yacht Early: September is still a popular month for sailing, and the best boats might get booked fast.Plan for Shorter Days: Sunsets start earlier than in summer, so plan anchorages accordingly.Check Weather Forecasts Daily: Wind conditions can change so always have plan B for the days with no wind or rainy days.Explore Local Restaurants: September is great for authentic local food experiences without summer tourist crowds.Choose Anchorages Over Marinas: With fewer boats, you can enjoy peaceful nights at sea rather than in marinas.
Before You Venture Sailing in Croatia in September Sailing in Croatia in September offers the perfect mix of warm weather, great sailing conditions, fewer tourists, and lower prices . Sounds like a great mix if you ask us. Sailing is a great activity to enjoy in Croatia. Maybe even the best when it comes to exploring the coastline and the islands of Croatia. Although not in the sailing business, we enjoyed each sailing trip we participated in. If you are thinking about sailing in Croatia, the only thing we can say is: “Go for it”. With such a coastline and so many islands, it’s the best destination for sailing in Europe.
Enjoy your sailing adventures.
