Split sits on Croatia’s coast like a gateway to some pretty amazing islands. Getting ready for a boat trip from here isn’t rocket science, but there are definitely things worth thinking about. Condor yachting runs tours that show off what this area has to offer, though packing smart makes any trip better.
Croatian waters throw you some curveballs. Beach holidays are one thing – boat tours are different. You’re moving around constantly, weather shifts without warning, and space gets tight fast. Take an island tour from Split – you might start with flat seas and sunshine, then hit choppy water with spray flying everywhere.
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Clothes That Actually Work
Pack lightweight, breathable clothes that you can layer. Croatian summers can be hot, but evenings by the coast sometimes get breezy. A light jacket or long-sleeve shirt comes in handy when the wind picks up. Also, don’t underestimate how strong the sun can get – bring a wide-brim hat or cap and sunglasses you won’t mind losing to the sea.
Swimming Gear and Water Stuff
Bring two swimsuits. Sounds obvious, but you’ll thank yourself later when one’s soaking wet and you need the other. Salt water takes forever to dry, especially when there’s no real sun. A sarong or light cover-up helps when you’re hopping between swimming and grabbing lunch somewhere.
Water shoes matter more than most people think. Croatian beaches aren’t always soft and sandy – in fact, many are covered with pebbles, rocks, or even concrete slabs. Some stones can be sharp, making barefoot walking uncomfortable or even risky. Water shoes also provide better grip on wet boat decks compared to flip-flops, which can turn dangerously slippery when wet.
Layering Makes Sense
Mediterranean weather fools people. Midday might be scorching, but early morning departures can be chilly. Evening returns too. A windbreaker or light rain jacket works double duty – keeps you warm when the boat’s flying across water and blocks spray when waves get frisky.
Walking shoes become important if your tour hits places like Hvar or Trogir. These old towns have cobblestone streets that go uphill. Flip-flops work fine for lounging on deck but they’re useless for actual walking around.
Protecting Your Skin
Water reflects sunlight like a mirror. This doubles UV exposure, which catches people off guard. SPF 30 sunscreen is the minimum, but get the waterproof kind. You’ll be getting splashed and swimming, so regular sunscreen washes off fast.
Sunglasses and a hat aren’t just accessories – they prevent headaches from constant glare. Attach them with straps or you’ll watch them disappear into the Adriatic. Expensive lesson learned by many.
Dealing with Seasickness
Even calm Adriatic waters can make people queasy. The trip to distant islands like Biševo involves high-speed travel over open water. Boats bounce around more than you’d expect. Pack some motion sickness pills or ginger tablets. Better to have them and not need them.
Keeping Things Dry
Electronics and important papers need protection from water. Period. Get waterproof bags in different sizes – small ones for phones and wallets, bigger ones for cameras and spare clothes. Waves don’t ask permission before soaking everything.
A waterproof daypack lets you explore hands-free while keeping stuff secure. Multiple pockets help organize things, and good straps matter when you’re walking around island towns.
What to Leave Behind
Some items cause more trouble than they’re worth. Hard suitcases take up too much space in small cabins and become dangerous when seas get rough. Pack light – you don’t need five outfit changes for a day trip.
Leave expensive jewelry at home. Salt spray corrodes metal quickly, and constant boat movement increases the chance of dropping things overboard. Basic electronics only.
Last-Minute Prep
Check weather forecasts before leaving. Croatian coastal weather changes fast, especially in spring and fall. What looks like a perfect day can turn windy or rainy without much warning.
Bring cash. Many smaller islands don’t take cards, and you’ll want money for meals, drinks, and souvenirs. ATMs exist in marinas, but it’s easier to have cash ready.
Successful packing comes down to thinking practically. Every item should do more than one job and take up minimal space. This way you spend time enjoying the trip instead of dealing with problems or missing things you actually need.