For many sailors exploring the central Adriatic, the journey often begins in Split. With numerous charter bases and easy access from Split Airport, the city is one of the most popular starting points for sailing holidays in Croatia. Just 12 nautical miles from Split, the picturesque village of Maslinica on the island of Šolta offers the perfect first stop after leaving the busy harbour.
The short sail across the Split Channel is ideal for the first day at sea. Within an hour you reach the peaceful west side of Šolta, where Maslinica welcomes sailors with its calm bay, small archipelago of islands and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Compared to the lively marinas around Split, Maslinica offers a quieter and more authentic Adriatic experience.
At the heart of the bay lies Martinis Marchi Marina, a boutique marina providing safe berths for yachts and a comfortable stop for crews sailing between Split, Brač, Hvar and Vis. The marina’s elegant waterfront and naturally protected harbour make it a convenient and pleasant place to dock before continuing your sailing route further south.
One of the highlights of arriving in Maslinica is the evening atmosphere. As the sun slowly sets behind the small islands in front of the village, the sky turns warm shades of gold and orange, creating one of the most beautiful sunset views on the Adriatic. Many sailors enjoy this moment with a glass of local wine on the waterfront, watching the light fade over the sea and the silhouettes of the islands.
After docking, the experience continues at Martinis Marchi Restaurant, where guests can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine inspired by local Dalmatian ingredients. Fresh fish, olive oil produced on the island of Šolta and carefully selected regional wines create a memorable dining experience overlooking the sea.
For those who wish to explore further, the historic wine cellar within the castle offers curated wine tastings and a unique atmosphere that reflects the heritage of the estate. It is the perfect way to end the first evening of a sailing journey through the Adriatic.
Whether you are beginning a longer sailing route towards Hvar, Vis or the Kornati islands, or simply enjoying a relaxed cruise through central Dalmatia, Maslinica provides an ideal combination of safe harbour, beautiful scenery and authentic Mediterranean hospitality.
For many sailors, it quickly becomes more than just a stop on the route, it becomes one of the highlights of the journey.