We’re coming to the end of the summer season in the Mediterranean but that doesn’t mean the sailing fun has to stop. Now is the time to book Croatia for the autumn if you want to grab a yacht charter bargain and make the most of cheaper flights. Plan a getaway to Split and you’ll still find t-shirt weather to bask in during September and early October. Dave Watt, LateSail General Manager, has put together a guide for late season sailing in Split to help you plan your charter.
Autumn weather conditions in Croatia
While we can’t predict the weather, the average air temperature for Croatia ranges between 21°C in September to 17°C in October. With those temperatures, you can leave your winter wardrobe packed away and carry on wearing shorts for a little longer. You can even swim in the water during October comfortably, as the Adriatic has been heated all summer by the hot sun and sea temperatures range between 20°C and 23°C. It would be sensible to bring a jacket for the evenings and to ward off any thundery showers.
Split itinerary stop off highlights
Before you leave Split, get up early for coffee in a cafe on the quayside and watch the world go by. Make your first stop the island of Šolta and the pretty town of Maslinica, which has fewer than a thousand residents. Find time to explore rocky coves and watch the sunset. The view is fantastic and you can see the archipelago of seven islets, including Polebrnjak, Saskinja, Stipanska, Kamik, Balkun, Rudula and Grmej.
The island of Korčula is another favourite with its dense forests and walled town, known as “Little Dubrovnik”. In the old town you can climb the tower and look out over the terracotta roofs. You’ll find strong links to Marco Polo in the town, as he was believed to have been born there. For a party atmosphere, head for Hvar for a good night out. On this island you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants, as well as clubs and all-night parties featuring a wide range of music.
For a magical experience, sail to the Blue Caves on Bisevo early morning. As the sun rises and hits the caves, they are bathed in a vivid blue glow as the sea reflects on the walls.
Tasting great, local food
Šibenik is home to Pelegrini, voted one of the best restaurants of Dalmatia and Croatia. You can get three courses of serious fine dining that celebrates local flavours and the region’s heritage for about £40. While it isn’t the cheapest restaurant, it is seriously good value for the quality of food and wine you’ll find there.
One dish to look out for is Peeka, a traditional Croatian slow cooking method where hot ashes are put on top of the pot and cooked for five hours. Typical dishes include Octopus so soft, it melts in your mouth. Be aware that you usually have to order this dish in advance. Also make sure you try the local homemade flavoured brandies, such as Travarica, a popular herb brandy.
How to keep your costs as low as possible
Think carefully about your provisioning by getting the bigger items from a local supplier, such as Jam Yacht Supply, and buy fresh ingredients locally as and when you need them. This is important as you may find yourself eating out more than you thought and you don’t want a yacht full of uneaten food.
Find out more
Look out for another guide to Split by local charter companies HERE. To head to Split this autumn, call us on 01227 479 900 or contact us for competitive low season deals and extra discounts. You can also use our Name Your Price service.
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