Sailing in Croatia is a dream for many. But what happens when you change your perspective—and suddenly sail out of Croatia toward Venice ?
That was exactly my adventure in June 2025: my first Adriatic crossing , my first real offshore experience – and my very personal introduction to sailing in the Adriatic .
⛵ The plan: nautical miles, salt air and skipper training
I was part of the "The Competent Skipper" cruise with the Peter Frey sailing school – a practical training program that aims to collect as many nautical miles as possible and gain real skipper experience.
We started in Fontana, Croatia. With six people on board, a 46-foot yacht, we initially headed south, past the coast and almost to the Kornati Islands. The return journey proved to be a real challenge – and a highlight: a 30-hour non-stop journey from Croatia to Venice .
🌊 My first Adriatic crossing: More sea is not possible
It was my first real crossing, my first moment seeing nothing but water. No coastline, no harbor in sight—just the deep blue of the Adriatic .
And even though I had little sailing experience, I never felt unsafe – just very much alive.
Particularly moving was the moment we encountered a pod of dolphins on our first day out at sea. The water was as smooth as glass, there was hardly any wind, and we glided gently along. This tranquility, combined with the animals and the vastness – I'll never forget it.
The night trip was also intense. Things you'd normally only learn theoretically in the SKS or SBF—lighting, collision courses, radii, and rules—suddenly become reality when a freighter approaches in the dead of night. And yes: super boost for seasickness is a must on a trip like this. 😉
🛥️ Sailing in Novigrad, Venice & Croatia – where contrasts meet
Our last stop in Croatia was Novigrad before we began the long crossing. A beautiful little town, perfect for a last espresso on the quay. And then: heading northwest.
Sailing in Venice feels surreal—cruising through the lagoon on a sailing yacht, among water taxis and gondolas, with the city silhouette on the horizon. Those coming from the Adriatic experience this place very differently than tourists.
🧭 What I have learned – and what remains
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Crossing the Adriatic is not rocket science , but it does require planning, team spirit and respect for the sea.
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Sailing at night changes your perception – you hear more, feel more, and suddenly see every light pattern with new eyes.
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Unfortunately, nature experiences and garbage often go hand in hand . On this trip, we repeatedly encountered pieces of plastic in the ocean —a sight that, as a co-founder of Oceanmata, motivates me every time.
♻️ Sailing with responsibility: Our goal remains a clean sea
At Oceanmata , we are committed to collecting ocean plastic and actively contributing to cleaning the oceans with our products.
When you spend days on the open water like we do, you quickly realize: The sea is beautiful – but it needs us.
Conclusion: Sailing in the Adriatic – from Croatia to Venice
Whether sailing in Croatia , a short trip around Novigrad , or even a full Adriatic crossing , this region has so much to offer. And for me, this trip was a milestone: personally, sailing-wise, and emotionally.
Are you planning a crossing yourself or just want more sea?
Pack some superfoods, keep your eyes open for dolphins—and take your trash with you. 🌊
