Luxury MegaYachts Charter Croatia

Created out of stars, breath and tears

There are few places in the world blessed with nearly 3000 hours of annual sunshine that still truly deserve the description ‘unspoilt’. Dalmatia has retained its unique beauty, boasting one of the most dramatic stretches of coastline that Europe has to offer. The Kornati archipelago, a labyrinth of 147 islands just south of Zadar, is just one favourite stretch for those in on the secret that is Croatia. George Bernard Shaw was moved to write, ‘On the last day of creation, God wanted to crown his work and thus created the Kornati islands out of tears, stars and breath’. An abundance of natural harbours and secluded coves attracts yachting enthusiasts, whether seeking privacy or looking to explore. The temperate seas of the Adriatic attract a variety of marine life and the dolphins make excellent companions for snorkelling or scuba diving. The deserted beaches are ideal for sunbathing while the cliffs provide wonderful views of the coastline for those who enjoy walking.

It is easy to only soak up sun and sea in Croatia, but that would mean missing out on the country’s rich cultural heritage. This history has evolved from centuries of occupation by foreign empires starting with the Illyrians. The palace of the Roman Emperor, Diocletian in Split has been named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The many imperial residences and fortresses that speckle the landscape are considered some of the finest examples of intact classical architecture in Europe. But Croatia is not just about a spectacular past, it also boasts a vibrant present. Dalmatia’s many towns and islands offer a spectacular backdrop to a dynamic, restaurant, bar and café culture. Where else in the world can you experience performances from Pavarotti to Jamiroquai in a complete Roman amphitheatre? Discover the waterfalls of Krka or the amazing caves near Vis. Perhaps simply sail south through the pine clad Dalmatian islands of Brac, Hvar, and Korcula, to another World Heritage Site – the medieval city of Dubrovnik, bringing together the natural beauty of Croatia with its unique culture and 1,300 year old history.

Wine is as important today as it was when the Emperor Diocletian built his holiday palace two thousand years ago. In his work the Banquet of Scientists the Greek writer Athenaios writes, “On the island of Vis a wine is produced that no other wine equals.” The vines thrive in rocky soil and are blessed by year round sunshine producing high quality wines. Alternatively locals may tempt you with their “home-brew” but this is recommended only for the brave! The region has a number of grape varieties that are native to the area but the more well known varieties have begun to become established. Some of the more successful of these currently are Dingac and Postup from the Peljesac peninsula, Posip and Grk from Korcula, Marastina from the island of Lastovo, Plavac, Plavac Mali as well as Babic are just some of the popular wines you may come across. The more adventurous can aim to master the local eau de vie, Travarica. This is a local spirit made from grapes similar to the Italian grappa, mixed with local herbs and flowers and hence gains its faint amber/green appearance. It is also highly potent and freely offered as a welcome drink to guests, sometimes with interesting results.

Although you will find intriguing differences from island to island, the cuisine of Dalmatia is overwhelmingly Mediterranean in style, borrowing influences from the trade routes that have passed its shores for centuries. Many claim that the seafood of the Adriatic is some of the best in the world owing to the sea’s unique geographical position. The secret lies in the simplicity of the preparation - for thousands of years locals have perfected the technique of grilling seafood even down to the woods used to stoke the fire. A key ingredient is the local olive oil cultivated by farmers along the coast in picturesque groves of ancient trees. Hence grilled fish, lobster and shellfish will feature highly on most menus, but the spit-roast lamb and locally grown vegetables should not be overlooked. Other specialities are the many types of island cheeses and prsut, the local version of Parma ham. There will be culinary delights to tempt you but a healthy diet can still be enjoyed. Whatever your preferences and tastes we are confident that once sampled, the local cuisine will provide you with ample excuse to return. Blue Yacht Charter looks forward to welcoming you back to Dalmatia.