Podgora is an excellent charter base on the Makarska Riviera if you want to combine shorter coastal legs with scenic island crossings within a single week. From here, the calm bays of Brač and Hvar, charming Dalmatian towns, and longer southbound routes are all within easy reach. The area is ideal for crews who want to mix swimming stops, sightseeing, and varied sailing into one balanced itinerary. The routes below help you decide whether a more relaxed weekly plan or a more ambitious island-hopping route suits your crew better.
Sailing in Podgora

This article gives you an overview of the following topics:

Which month is best for sailing in Podgora?

The best sailing period in Podgora usually runs from May to September, with June and September often offering the most appealing balance. During these months, the waters off the Makarska Riviera are pleasantly warm, the sea is generally friendly, and the typical summer wind rhythm of central Adriatic sailing is more predictable than in the cooler parts of the year.

Spring in Podgora feels like the quiet opening of the charter season. In March and April, daytime temperatures are usually around 14–19 °C, rising to roughly 20–23 °C by May. The sea is still cool in spring, typically around 14–18 °C, so this period is better suited to active sailing than to long swimming stops. Winds are more changeable at this time of year: calm, bright days can alternate with livelier bora episodes, when dry, gusty winds descend from the Biokovo mountains and create short, steeper waves close to shore. Marinas and anchorages are still relatively peaceful in spring, which gives the coastline a spacious, unhurried feel that many sailors love.

Summer is the liveliest and most comfortable sailing season in Podgora. From June through August, daytime temperatures usually range from 26–31 °C, while the sea warms to around 22–25 °C, making it ideal for swimming and lazy afternoons at anchor. On many summer days, the maestral breeze shapes the rhythm of sailing: this pleasant thermal northwesterly to westerly wind often builds around midday, frequently reaching about 10–18 knots before easing later in the day. That means mornings often begin with smoother water, while afternoons bring a more spirited and enjoyable sail toward nearby island routes such as Hvar, Brač or Korčula. The sea is generally slight to moderately rippled, but in the peak weeks of July and August there is noticeably more traffic on the water, more activity in the harbours and a busier atmosphere in the most popular bays.

Autumn is a favourite season for many yacht charter crews because the sea still holds the warmth of summer while the overall mood becomes more relaxed. In September and early October, air temperatures often remain between 20 and 27 °C, and the sea can still stay around 20–23 °C, which keeps swimming very enjoyable. September is especially attractive because it combines warm water and long daylight with fewer boats, calmer marina traffic and a gentler pace along the coast. At the same time, autumn brings a higher chance of jugo, the humid southerly wind that builds more gradually and can produce longer swells, hazier skies and more unsettled weather. By November, daytime temperatures often fall to around 12–18 °C, the sea starts to cool more noticeably, and the region shifts into a quieter off-season character.

Winter is the most rugged and weather-driven season around Podgora. From December to February, daytime temperatures are commonly around 8–14 °C, while the sea stays near 13–15 °C. This is not the classic swim-and-sail charter season, but for experienced sailors it can still offer memorable Adriatic days. Bora conditions are more frequent and often stronger in winter, especially along sections of coast influenced by the mountains, bringing sudden gusts, very clear air and sharper short-period seas. In calmer windows, the water can look almost glassy, but overall this is a season better suited to well-prepared crews than to casual summer cruising. Marinas are quiet, tourist numbers are minimal and the coastline shows a more peaceful, stripped-back Mediterranean side.

Ports around Podgora

Marina Podgora

The marina, southeast of Makarska, is open all year round. It can accommodate 220 boats up to 20 metres in length. The maximum depth of the seabed is 3 metres. There are drinking water, electricity , and a crane. Rent a boat in Podgora and experience what it feels like when everything is perfectly timed – the sunset, the sea, and freedom.
Port in Podgora

Marina Tučepi

The marina is right next to Slatina Beach. It has 200 berths, 50 of which are reserved for visitors and 150 for local boats. Marina Tučepi can accommodate boats up to 20 metres in length.

Makarska Harbour

The port’s 225 metres long breakwater was completed in 2015. It provides protection from winds and waves coming from the south and southwest. The maximum depth of the seabed is 4.8 metres. The excellent services offered in the port include refuelling. Makarska sailing, rent a boat Makarska

Marina Ramova

The Marina Ramova is located in Krvavica, a town that administratively belongs to Baška Voda. It has 195 berths for boats up to 16 metres in length. The depth of the seabed is 3 metres. The port offers many excellent services. The restaurant can accommodate up to 150 guests at once.

Marina Baška Voda

The Marina Baška Voda can accommodate up to 180 boats up to 23 metres in length. The maximum depth of the seabed is 4 metres. The port has drinking water, electricity and a restaurant. You can even get medical help if needed. Information about sailing in Baska Voda, boat rental Baska VodaPorts around Podgora

Port of Ploče

Ploče is located in Dalmatia, directly next to the delta of the Neretva River. The depth of the water at the port is 10-12 metres. If you dock here, there is a fuel station that you can use. Ploce sailing

Sail in Podgora! Podgora sailing itineraries

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Sailing in Podgora: 1 week sailing trip

This 1-week itinerary from Podgora features shorter daily legs, mostly coastal sailing, and flexible stop options, making it ideal for a more relaxed charter week. It is especially well suited if you want to leave more time for swimming, exploring ashore, and enjoying evening marina stops. Recommended level: beginner Open sea passages: no

Sailing itinerary Podgora

Day 1: Podgora – Igrane (4.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
One of the main attractions of the town is the parish church built-in 1752, dedicated to the Queen of the Rosary. Another must-see is the Church of St. Michael, which is the oldest church in the entire Makarska Riviera. Near Igrane you can discover the Zalina Kula Tower, which is still in great condition. If you want to immerse yourself in culinary delights, choose the “SKIF” and Ante restaurants.
Day 2: Igrane – Podaca (7.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
The most significant attraction of Podaca is the Church of St. John the Baptist, probably built-in the 11th or 12th century. It is protected as a historic building, and, like the Church of St. Michael in Igrane, it is one of the oldest churches on the Makarska Riviera. The castle tower is the memory of the Turkish invasions. There is an archaeological site on the western edge of the town.
Day 3: Podaca – Sućuraj (Hvar-island) (4.8 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
This small fishing village is located on the island of Hvar in southern Croatia. It has excellent beaches such as Česminica, Bilina or Perna. The main attractions of this quiet, Mediterranean village are the completely rebuilt Church of St. George and the Venetian fortress from the 17th century.
Day 4: Sućuraj (Hvar-island) – Sumartin (Brač-island) (17.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 3 hours)
Sumartin is located on the eastern edge of the Brač Island. It is famous for the Church of St. Martin, after which the town got its name. The lovers of the sea can choose from crystal clear bays such as Žukovik, Studena, or Rasotica. You can find a deserted town near Rasotica. Sumartin’s most famous event is the „Gospe od anđela”.
Day 5: Sumartin (Brač-island) – Povlja (8.3 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
We recommend discovering this tiny village for families who like a peaceful holiday. The most famous attraction of Povlja is the remains of the early Christian basilica next to the Church of St. John. The beautiful bays in the area are perfect for swimming.
Day 6: Povlja – Baška Voda (5.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
Our next destination is Baška Voda. The town’s most famous beach is Nikolina, which has a certification. The main attractions are the Church of St. Nicholas and the Church of St. Lawrence. For a culinary experience, choose the Konoba Panorama restaurant at the foot of Mount Biokovo, or the King restaurant downtown. Read more about what to do in Baška Voda or Baška Voda sailing. yacht charter in Baška Voda.
Day 7: Baška Voda – Makarska – Podgora (9.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
Makarska’s most beautiful building and symbol are the St. Mark’s Cathedral, built-in 1766. If you like hiking, Osejava Park Forest is a great choice. During summer, there are many cultural and entertainment events to choose from, such as the Makarska Summer Festival or the Fisherman’s Night. Do you want to have some more fun? Visit the Peter Pan or Deep night clubs. If you like seafood dishes, Il Golfo Restaurant is the best of all. After returning our boat and we still have some time, we should take a look around Podgora. One of the main attractions of the town is the Church of All Saints. Nature enthusiasts must visit the Biokovo Nature Park where they can find the Kotišina Botanical Garden. If you get hungry, choose the 2 Monkeys of Vruja restaurants.

* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.

Read more about what to do in Makarska or Makarska sailing. Makarska boat hire.

Coast of Podgora

7 Days Podgora sailing itinerary (longer)

This 7-day route offers longer daily runs and several inter-island crossings, creating a more active and varied sailing week from Podgora. Pay close attention to daily weather and wind conditions, as timing becomes more important on the more open stretches. Recommended level: intermediate Open sea passages: yes

Podgora sailing trip

Day 1: Podgora – Omiš (21 nm – Sailing time*: about 3.5 hours), Day 2: Omiš – Rogač (Šolta-island) (17.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 3 hours), Day 3: Rogač (Šolta-island) – Stari Grad (Hvar-island) (19.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 3.5 hours), Day 4: Stari Grad (Hvar-island) – Vis (Vis-island) (21.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 3.5 hours), Day 5: Vis (Vis-island) – Vela Luka (Korčula-island) (24.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 4 hours), Day 6: Vela Luka (Korčula-island) – Lovište (Pelješac-peninsula) (22.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 3.5 hours), Day 7: Lovište (Pelješac-peninsula) – Sućuraj (Hvar-island) – Podgora (22.4 nm – Sailing time*: about 3.5 hours)

* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.Dalmatia sailing itineraries

How to choose a Podgora sailing route?

  • If you want a relaxed and easy-going charter week: choose the 1-week itinerary with shorter daily distances and more coastal stops.
  • If you want more islands and longer sailing days: the 7-day route is the better option, linking more destinations and creating a richer cruising experience.
  • If you are sailing with family or a less experienced crew: stay with the shorter-leg itinerary, which is easier to adapt to weather and crew pace.
  • If you want a classic Dalmatian island-hopping feel: choose a plan that includes highlights toward Hvar, Brač, or Korčula for more variety.

Marine gas near Podgora, boat gas stations around Central Dalmatia

  • MAKARSKA: Depth: 5 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.293683, 17.019819
  • PLOCE: Depth: 10-12 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.057252, 17.428057
  • VRBOSKA, HVAR: Depth: 2 m, Working time: 8-15, GPS Coordinates: 43.180978, 16.673233
  • MILNA, HVAR: Depth: 3 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.327293, 16.448249
  • HVAR: Depth: 1, 8 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.170339, 16.444642
  • VIS: Depth: 2, 5 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.057443, 16.190497
  • ACI Marina KORCULA: Depth: 3, 5m, GPS Coordinates: 42.956744, 17.138561
  • VELA LUKA: Depth: 3-4 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 42.959407, 16.714213
  • SOLTA: Depth: 4, 5 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.395533, 16.303849
  • SPLIT: Depth: 3, 5 – 4 m, Working time: 6-24, GPS Coordinates: 43.502079, 16.427268
  • MARINA KASTELA: , VHF: 17, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.546155, 16.405204
  • TROGIR: Depth: 3 m, Working time: 8-19, GPS Coordinates: 43.513687, 16.248574
  • PRIMOSTEN: Depth: 3 – 4, 5 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 43.587926, 15.92353
  • LASTOVO: Depth: 2, 5-4, 5 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 42.745218, 16.824718
  • SOBRA, MLJET: Depth: 5m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 42.740951, 17.598208
  • DUBROVNIK, ACI Marina: Depth: 4m, Working time: 8-20, GPS Coordinates: 42.670687, 18.127007
  • DUBROVNIK, Orsan: Depth: 3, 7-4, 9 m, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 42.660463, 18.079714

If you want to go sailing, Podgora and the surrounding area is a great choice. Drop anchor here and be greeted by pleasant weather and great tourists attractions.Find more Dalmatia sailing destinations or choose another yacht charter Dalmatia.

Request a quote for a Podgora charter and find the route that best matches your yacht type and your crew’s rhythm. Set off with confidence, knowing the planning is already aligned with the experience you want.

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