The Best Stops for the First Night When Sailing from Split
Sailing from Split is one of the most popular charter routes in Croatia. With the islands of Brač and Šolta only a few nautical miles away, sailors can reach beautiful bays, charming fishing villages, and protected anchorages within just a few hours.
However, the first day of a charter week is usually a bit shorter than the rest.
Most charter companies in Split schedule standard check-in from 16:00, after boats are cleaned, inspected, and prepared following the previous crew’s check-out.
Some companies also offer early boarding option, typically between 13:00 and 14:00, which allows crews to leave the marina earlier and enjoy a longer first sailing day. This option usually comes with an additional fee and limited availability, so it should be reserved in advance.
👉 Check how the check-in procedure works.
Because of this schedule, most crews prefer short, easy sailing distances on the first night. Fortunately, the nearby islands of Brač and Šolta offer plenty of excellent options.
Below are some of the best first-night stops when sailing from Split.
Bobovišća Bay on the island of Brač, western coast
Best First Night Stops on Brač
Bobovišća – A Quiet Dalmatian Hidden Gem
Bobovišća is a peaceful village located in a deep natural inlet on the western side of Brač. The narrow bay provides good protection from most winds, making it a comfortable stop for the first night.
Keep in mind that mooring at the village quay is difficult: Shallow, narrow, and not much space; locals often tie up long-term. Most yachts take the dense mooring field just outside the harbor. The setup works, but it’s tight: Boats are lined up in a row, and there isn't much privacy, especially when charter boats squeeze in late. It’s functional, but far from relaxing unless you’re one of the first ones in. If you're looking for clubbing, cocktails, or cafés, skip it. But if you're burned out from overstimulation and want to walk a few minutes into olive groves and silent stone paths, you’ll find something rare here.
The village itself is small and charming, with traditional stone houses and a relaxed atmosphere that feels very authentic.
Distance from Split: about 11 NM
Sailing time: approx. 1.5-2 hours (by sailboat or catamaran)
Why stop here:
- quiet and authentic atmosphere
- good natural protection
- ideal for a relaxed first evening, mooring buoys are provided by Nautical Anchorage Bobovišća
Bobovišća Village, Brač
Milna – The Nautical Hub of Western Brač
Milna is one of the most popular sailing destinations on Brač. Its deep bay provides excellent shelter, and several marinas make it easy to find a berth in one of its marinas and the city port of Milna: ACI Marina Milna, Marina Vlaška.
Milna also has a lively waterfront with restaurants, cafés, and bars, making it a great option for crews who want a bit more activity after the first day at sea.
Distance from Split: about 13 NM
Sailing time: approx. 2 hours
Highlights:
- safe marinas and good infrastructure
- lively waterfront atmosphere
- great starting point for routes toward Hvar or Vis
Lučice Bay: One of the Most Beautiful Anchorages on the Adriatic
Lučice Bay is widely considered one of the most beautiful natural anchorages in the region. Located just south of Milna, this bay is surrounded by pine trees and turquoise waters.
Boats can anchor in the middle of the bay, while seaside restaurants, Konoba Familija, offer mooring buoys for guests.
Sunsets here are spectacular, and the atmosphere is incredibly peaceful.
Distance from Split: about 14 NM
Sailing time: approx. 2.5 hours
Why sailors love it:
- stunning natural scenery
- crystal-clear water
- great restaurants, Konoba Familija, directly by the sea
Photo © Konoba Familija
👉 Want to explore Brač in detail?
Discover the best anchorages, routes, and local tips in our complete sailing guide: Sailing Guide to Brač
Best First Night Stops on Šolta
Stomorska – A Charming Fishing Village
Stomorska is the oldest coastal settlement on Šolta and a favorite among sailors.
The small harbor and waterfront promenade are lined with restaurants and cafés, creating a lively yet relaxed evening atmosphere.
Distance from Split: about 9 NM
Sailing time: approx. 1.5 hours
Why it’s popular:
- easy access from Split
- charming village vibe
- great seaside restaurants
Nečujam – The Largest Bay on Šolta
Nečujam is the largest bay on the island and offers plenty of space for anchoring. Because of its size and protection, it’s a common choice for the first night after departure.
Nearby, sailors can also visit the famous sunken ship near Piškera Bay, a popular snorkeling spot.
Distance from Split: about 10 NM
Sailing time: approx. 1.5 hours
Advantages:
- large and protected anchorage
- plenty of space for boats
- good swimming and snorkeling spots
Rogač – The Most Practical First Stop
Rogač is the main port of Šolta and often the most practical choice for the first night, especially if you leave Split later in the afternoon.
With a short sailing distance and a well-protected harbor, it’s a reliable option for crews looking for a simple and stress-free first stop.
Distance from Split: about 9 NM
Sailing time: approx. 1.5 hours
Why choose Rogač:
- closest port on Šolta from Split
- easy mooring and good protection
- ideal for late departures after check-in
The real highlight here is Restaurant Pasarela, perched just above the waterfront with a view across the bay. It’s not just about the food, it’s the vibe: homegrown herbs, local olive oil, traditional dishes, and a front-row seat to the harbor scene.
💡 Pro tip: Rogač is also a great place to end your charter week. The port has a fuel station, making it a smart place to refuel on Thursday afternoon or Friday early morning.
This helps you avoid long queues at the fuel dock in Split on Friday afternoon, which can be one of the most stressful parts of the return.
Maslinica – Šolta’s Most Photogenic Marina
Maslinica sits on the western tip of the island and is one of the most beautiful sailing stops near Split.
Marina Martinis Marchi lies next to a historic castle and faces a small archipelago of seven islands, creating one of the most iconic sunset views in the region.
Distance from Split: about 13 NM
Sailing time: approx. 2 hours
Highlights:
- beautiful marina setting
- excellent restaurants (Restaurant Martinis Marchi, Konoba Šampjer)
- stunning sunsets
Šešula Bay – A Nautical Paradise
Šešula Bay is located just around the corner from Maslinica and is one of the most popular sailing bays on Šolta.
The deep, well-protected bay offers excellent anchoring conditions, and several seaside konobas provide mooring buoys for visiting yachts, Konoba Šešula and Restaurant Šišmiš.
Dinner here often means fresh fish, local wine, and a peaceful bay surrounded by nature. Reservations in advance are strongly recommended, especially in the high season.
Distance from Split: about 14 NM
Sailing time: approx. 2.5 hours
Why it’s a favorite:
- safe and protected anchorage
- great waterfront restaurant, Konoba Šešula and Šišmiš
- close to Maslinica
Šešula Bay, Šolta
Planning to explore more of Brač after your first night?
👉 Check out our complete sailing guide to Šolta for the best routes, hidden bays, and must-visit spots.
Give us a call or drop an email, We`ll answer you within 24 hours