Istria Region
Discover the Magic of Istria
Istria, a divinely beautiful heart-shaped peninsula, is one of the most charming yacht charter and holiday destinations in Croatia. If you are somewhat unsure which sailing region to explore in Croatia first, Istria charter cruise is always a good idea.
A Sailing Paradise in Croatia

Yacht charter Istria offers a variety of boat rental options; from sleek sailing yachts and elegant catamarans to speedy motor boats, bringing you a range of stunning Croatia holiday destinations all in a single cruise. Medieval hilltop towns, world-renowned truffles, exquisite local wines and cuisine – all surrounded by romantic and picturesque landscapes. A great starting point for a yacht charter cruise in Istria is Pula. As the region’s largest town, Pula has several yacht marinas that ensure not only safe mooring but also provide you with everything you might need during a cruise. On top of that, Pula is a beautiful town with a rich cultural and historical heritage, so sightseeing is a must here. Pula’s Roman Amphitheatre is on everybody’s bucket list, and for good reason. What once used to be a venue for gladiators’ fights is today the world’s sixth-largest preserved amphitheatre and an awe-inspiring venue for concerts and events. Strolling through the town’s streets reveals other architectural and historical landmarks such as Venetian and Austro-Hungarian fortresses, the Temple of Augustus, or St Francis’ Monastery. Once you’re ready for a break, stop by one of many local restaurants and treat yourself to some scrumptious bites.
Just a few kilometres away from Pula lies Brijuni National Park. Consisting of 14 small islands, Brijuni is a unique and fascinating sailing location in Croatia. The islands are covered with lush vegetation interspersed with pristine beaches and the glistening waters of the Adriatic Sea, but only the two largest islands, Veli and Mali Brijun, are open to the public. The park is famous for its intriguing past as well; inhabited since ancient times, the islands bear traces of Roman and Byzantine history. After World War II, Brijuni became the favoured summer retreat of former Yugoslav president Marshal Tito.
This extraordinary sailing destination offers far more than just a beautiful swimming stop. The best ways to explore the islands are either by hopping on a tourist train ride or renting a bike. A bike ride is particularly enjoyable, allowing you to admire stunning nature and observe animals freely roaming the park. You can also see the remains of a Byzantine fortress, a Roman villa rustica, and even dinosaur footprints, or visit the Botanical Garden, Tito’s Museum, and the Safari and Ethno Park with exotic animals. Veli Brijun also boasts an 18-hole golf course with panoramic views. And if you're into snorkelling, you're in the right place, Brijuni National Park is one of the best snorkelling spots in all of Croatia. If you’d like to include Brijuni in your sailing route, please keep in mind that temporary mooring is allowed only in designated bays, and a navigation permit must be granted by the Park's administration office.

After the surreal beauty of the Brijuni Islands, it is time to head further west. The entire western shore of Istria is dotted with charming seaside resorts and picturesque ports that you can easily include in your Istria sailing itinerary.
One such scenic little town is most certainly Rovinj. With narrow, cobblestone streets, seafront bars, lovely art galleries, and a lively harbour, Rovinj is a delightful addition to your sailing route. It also has a small marina, making it a convenient alternative starting point for your cruise in Istria.
Another marina can be found in Vrsar, a charming town that was once a fortified fishing village. Today, it enchants visitors with its winding alleys, colourful houses, and a quintessentially Mediterranean harbour.
Bordering directly on Vrsar, the Lim Channel – often referred to as a fjord – is a must-see on your cruise through Istria. This 11-kilometre-long bay, with its deep-blue waters framed by emerald-green forest, is a protected landscape and marine reserve. Cruising the channel is the perfect opportunity to visit St Romuald’s Cave and enjoy swimming and snorkelling. Thanks to reduced salinity, mussels and oysters thrive here, so be sure to try some of the seafood specialties at the nearby restaurant. Although it may seem difficult to choose which places to visit on this compact peninsula, Poreč is a clear choice – a favourite among both sailors and holidaymakers. The town strikes a perfect balance between beautiful beaches, nightlife, and sightseeing. Its main landmark, the Euphrasian Basilica, is a stunning example of Byzantine art and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also stroll around Marafor Square, the former Roman Forum, or visit the three Venetian towers. The waterfront promenade is ideal for scenic walks, and just opposite the town lies the island of St Nicholas, featuring pebble beaches, oak and pine forests, and breathtaking views of the town. Although one of the smallest holiday resorts on the peninsula, Novigrad should not be missed on your sailing holiday in Istria. Medieval walls surround the romantic harbour where colourful houses are charmingly clustered together. Restaurants and cafés line the waterfront promenade, perfect for long, relaxed afternoons that slowly fade into sunset. With food festivals, wine trails, and gourmet experiences, Novigrad truly comes to life in the summer months – making it a great stop on any sailing route.

Finally, Umag. Situated on the far western tip of the Istrian peninsula, Umag is a pleasant and well-positioned sailing destination. Showcasing historical sites, a scenic coastline, the oldest lighthouse on the Adriatic, and a Blue Flag-awarded marina, Umag is the place to be, especially in the summer months when it also hosts a famous tennis tournament in Croatia. Yacht rental in Istria has another advantage: you can easily include the nearby Kvarner region in your cruising route and make the most of both sailing regions. For anyone looking for landmark-filled days, delicious food and wine, breathtaking landscapes, and a perfect blend of Mediterranean culture and history, sailing in Istria offers an unforgettable experience.