Slovenia Sailing Adventure

The Slovenian coast is small but beautiful, and it’s perfectly positioned for a week-long sailing adventure that can include Slovenia, Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula, and possibly northern Italy. Below is a 7-day sailing itinerary that mixes coastal cruising, short hops, and rich onshore experiences.

⚓️ 7-Day Sailing Adventure: Adriatic Charm — From Slovenia to Istria

Starting port: Portorož or Izola, Slovenia

Best season: May–September

Vessel type: 35–45 ft sailing yacht or catamaran

Total distance: ~120 nautical miles (moderate pace)

Day 1 – Embark in Portorož / Izola (Slovenia)

Sail: Local waters & Piran Bay (10 nm round trip)

Onshore:

Explore Piran, a stunning Venetian-style town with narrow alleys, pastel façades, and the Tartini Square.

Walk up to St. George’s Church for panoramic sea views.

Optional: visit Sečovlje Salt Pans Nature Park (bike or taxi).

Overnight: Anchor or berth in Piran harbor.

Dinner tip: Fritolin pri Cantini (fresh seafood, local wine).

Day 2 – Piran → Umag (Croatia)

Sail: ~15 nm south across the border.

Onshore:

Clear into Croatia in Umag marina (easy customs process).

Explore Umag’s old town and cycle the Savudrija Lighthouse route along the coast.

Optional wine tasting at Kozlović Winery inland (short taxi ride).

Overnight: Umag marina or nearby anchorage.

Day 3 – Umag → Novigrad → Rovinj

Sail: ~30 nm

Onshore (stop in Novigrad):

Quick swim and lunch stop in Novigrad, a small fishing town with great seafood.

Onshore (Rovinj):

Wander the cobbled streets of Rovinj, one of Croatia’s most photogenic ports.

Visit St. Euphemia’s Church for sunset views.

Optional evening kayaking tour around Rovinj’s islands.

Overnight: Rovinj harbor or ACI Marina Rovinj.

Day 4 – Rovinj → Brijuni Islands National Park

Sail: ~12 nm

Onshore:

Explore Brijuni National Park, once Tito’s private island retreat.

Rent bikes or golf carts to tour Roman ruins, a safari park, and lush pine forests.

Swim in pristine coves with turquoise waters.

Overnight: Berth at Veli Brijun port (inside the national park).

Day 5 – Brijuni → Pula (Croatia)

Sail: ~8 nm

Onshore:

Visit Pula’s Roman amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved in the world.

Explore local markets and craft beer bars in the old town.

Optional: guided tour of Kamenjak Nature Park (20 min taxi) for cliff jumping or snorkeling.

Overnight: ACI Marina Pula.

Day 6 – Pula → Umag or Piran (return leg north)

Sail: ~45 nm (break into 2 legs if preferred)

Onshore stop suggestion:

Lunch and swim stop at Vrsar or Funtana.

Overnight: Umag or Piran, depending on weather and energy.

Day 7 – Return & Disembark (Slovenia)

Sail: ~15 nm (if starting from Umag)

Onshore (if time allows):

Relaxed final lunch in Izola or Strunjan Nature Reserve hike before disembarkation.

⚓️ Bonus Tips

Rental bases: Portorož and Izola (Slovenia) 

Border note: Slovenia–Croatia crossings require passport checks; some charters handle paperwork in advance.

Weather: The Bora wind can appear suddenly; check local forecasts (METEO.hr).

Add-on options: If you want to extend, sail further south to Lošinj (great for dolphins and wellness spas).

Would you like help planning your next trip?

Please let us know about your sailing experiences and where you're planning to go by using our Contact Form on this Blog, with your requirements to receive immediate help and assistance and using our Vast Knowledge and Experience to Help and Guide You.

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European Sailing Hotspots

 

We have sourced the information used in this article from several European travel guides and we have also considered the testimony of sailors who frequently travel around the coastlines and inland waterways of the region.

France is a top destination for European sailing, and it also hosts one of the most favored mooring spots in the sailing community. The breathtaking French coastline is just part of the story, as you can spend days or weeks exploring the country’s vast network of channels and rivers.

Paris is, of course, a favorite destination for tourists—maritime or otherwise. But there’s much more to see in the area, and there’s sure to be something for everyone.

A notable example is Omaha Beach, where the Allies began one of the most vicious battles of World War Two. The scars of war remain in the form of massive shell craters and busted-up concrete bunkers, which still dot the landscape as if the battle happened yesterday.

But if war isn’t quite your speed, there’s another French coastal destination that might suit you well. It’s the isle of Corsica, and it’s the gorgeous birthplace of famed French leader Napoleon. The isle sports crystal-clear water, beaches, and ancient architecture.

Who can think of a sailing holiday in Europe and not picture Italy? The country, located on the Mediterranean Sea, is one of the most beautiful sailing destinations in Europe. The food, the music—it’s all there and ready for you to immerse yourself into.

Much of Italy hasn’t changed much in centuries. Of course, that also includes Venice. The waterlogged city of Venice is the most famous canal city in the world, and it has remained largely untouched for years.

And though you can’t technically take your boat through the canals, you can hire a local to row you through for an authentic experience. And if Venice isn’t your speed, try the breathtaking Amalfi coast and its picturesque buildings. 

If you are looking for southerly warmth and endless history? Greece is the country to see, and there’s no shortage of either in the area. Greece is the cradle of western civilization, and the nation’s stunning ruins and beautiful scenery are unsurpassed anywhere else in the world.

The majority of Greece borders the water, which is great news for sailors. There are dozens of marinas and yacht clubs located around the country, including many ancient cities that are well worth exploring. The islands that surround the country are also the perfect Mediterranean holiday spots—out of the way and teeming with authentic Greek food and culture.

Don’t forget to check out the tiny island nation of Cyprus. This storied country is located in the eastern Mediterranean and home to some of the most beautiful sailing in the world.

Upon arrival to Cyprus, you’ll be greeted by ancient ruins of a once heavily defended territory. Beautiful Mediterranean architecture dots the landscape, and some of the most picturesque harbors await you along the way.

While in Cyprus, you can hang out on the yellow sand beaches and enjoy the sun or adventure off into the heart of the nation to view the landscape and historical sites. Cypress is also an ideal winter sailing destination, as the weather remains warm and favorable year-round.

Portugal is the cork capital of the world and one of the most breathtaking European sailing destinations. Portugal is located on the western border of Spain, and the coast spans most of the country. This southerly paradise is also famous for its warm weather and beautiful coastal mooring locations.

The rocky shoreline of Portugal is famous for its unique rock formations and long, sandy beaches. The unique architectural style in the country resembles that of Spain, though it has a Portuguese touch that’s easy to distinguish.

While in Portugal, be sure to check out some of the beautiful coastal sites of Lagos and Praia Dona Ana. You can enjoy the crystal clear waters from your boat or Moor to explore the colorful and historic hillside towns.

Would you like help planning your next trip?

Please let us know about your sailing experiences and where you're planning to go by using our Contact Form on this Blog, with your requirements to receive immediate help and assistance and using our Vast Knowledge and Experience to Help and Guide You.

WITH 12,000 RENTAL YACHTS ACROSS 60 COUNTRIES WHICH ONE WILL YOU CHOOSE?

#yachts2rentnow