One Week Wasn’t Enough: Sailing Croatia Aboard Bavaria C50 Ciao Bella

One Week Wasn’t Enough: Sailing Croatia Aboard Bavaria C50 “Ciao Bella”

A family-friendly skippered charter full of firsts, fun, and unforgettable memories.

Last week, I had the incredible chance to join my friend and his family on a skippered sailing holiday aboard the beautiful Bavaria C50 Ciao Bella. And let me tell you—seven days were nowhere near enough.

We set sail with a lively and diverse crew: two kids (6 and 7), a laid-back teenager, four adults in our forties, and our experienced, easygoing skipper, Marko. What followed was a week of light sailing, endless swimming, spontaneous adventures, and some surprisingly gourmet meals—both onboard and ashore.

Day 1: Getting Into the Groove

We kicked things off in Marina Kaštela with a big provisioning run (cue the classic “we bought too much and forgot the essentials”). With two fridges on board, including a top-loader and freezer drawer, we had enough space to pack in groceries, drinks, and way too much coffee.

It took a solid two days to shake off the work emails and shift into vacation mode—but once we did, it was pure sailing bliss.

Day 2: Split to Vis – Swimming, Sailing, and Scoring That Perfect Mooring

We boarded in Split at West Coast where Marko had already taken care of the check-in. After a swim stop on the south side of Šolta (crystal clear water and happy kids), we set sail for Vis.

Kut port was full, and buoys were disappearing fast—but thanks to a friendly ask and a bit of luck, we scored a waterfront mooring in Vis town. If you’ve ever been there, you know how magical those evenings are: ice cream strolls, quiet streets, and that perfect Adriatic charm.

Dinner was at Pojoda, a timeless fish restaurant in Kut. Friendly service, fresh local food, and the same waiter from 15 years ago. Highly recommended—just don’t forget to reserve in advance.

Day 3: Cliff Jumps, Snorkeling & Sunset in Stončica Bay

Morning coffee came with views of Vis catsle golden mosaics and calm waters. After a quick resupply, we headed to the army tunnels for a swim, then made our way to the iconic Stiniva Bay.

Getting back to the boat from the bay in rising wind and waves, kids in tow, and paddleboard in hand? Let's just say we earned our lunch that day.

We found overnight calm in Stončica Bay, anchored and tied stern-to-shore. Pasta, salads, sunset swims, paddleboarding, and family quiz night—it felt like a perfect Mediterranean dream.

Day 4: Hvar… or Not? Off to Starigrad Instead

We aimed for Hvar, but like many mid-July sailors, we hit the reality of a packed harbor. No worries—Starigrad was next, with a lovely swim stop en route.

Our mooring was a bit of a walk from the center, but turned out to be a blessing: right next to a shaded beach and the fantastic Eritmaž restaurant. Great food, kid-friendly, and reasonably priced (€25–30 per person with drinks). Everyone left happy.

Day 5: Bay-Hopping and BBQs near Milna, Brač

After breakfast and a very long provisioning walk, we headed toward bay near Milna for another idyllic day at sea. Swimming, fishing, paddleboarding, and yes—a wasp sting (bring antihistamines!).

We grilled fresh čevapčići on the boat’s BBQ, made salads, and shared stories as the sun went down. Kids loved it, and honestly, so did we. The only thing missing? A working cockpit light—easily fixed with a few USB lamps we found onboard.

Day 6: Cool Bars and Quiet Bays

We wrapped up the adventure near Sutivan, Brač, stopping at COOL Bar for cocktails and quick swims in Likva Bay. Later, we found a secluded spot for one last swim and BBQ before heading back to Marina Kaštela at sunset.

Final Thoughts: Why This Trip Was Special

This was my first time as a guest—not the skipper, not the planner—and my first skippered charter with someone I didn’t know beforehand. It was refreshing to let go and just enjoy. Marko was the ideal skipper: calm, professional, and present when needed (but happy to read a book when not).

Even with four adults, three kids, and a skipper onboard, the Bavaria C50 “Ciao Bella” felt roomy and comfortable. Great sailing performance, plenty of storage, spacious cockpit, BBQ, and a huge swim platform. We didn’t even need the AC most nights—open windows and sea breeze were more than enough.

The kids? Absolutely hooked. Between the paddleboarding, night swims, and beach stops, they were already asking when we could go again.

Is Sailing in Croatia Still Affordable?

Surprisingly—yes. Here’s the breakdown:

• Mooring fees for the week: €210 total for a 50-foot yacht
• Meals out: €25–30 per person including drinks
• Coffee with a view: around €3 (still a steal)

If you skip lobster dinners and stick to fresh local meals, the costs are more than reasonable—especially when shared across a group.

The Verdict

If you're looking for a week that feels like a month of memories, sailing the Croatian coast is the way to go. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned sailor, a skippered charter is a relaxed, family-friendly way to enjoy the sea, without the pressure of planning or navigating yourself.

Just be warned: one week will never feel like enough.

Article written by Sara Douzzan