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Why itineraries change
Croatia's summer weather is often settled, but it is not fixed. A forecast bura can make a channel crossing rough or an exposed harbour unsafe. A building jugo can raise a heavy sea and make south-east-facing bays uncomfortable overnight. A summer thunderstorm can bring sudden squalls. Our guide to Croatian winds explains how each one behaves.
Weather is not the only reason. Popular town quays fill up in July and August, a harbour may be closed for an event or works, local authorities can restrict access to certain areas, and a guest may need medical help ashore. Any of these can change the plan.
What may change
Changes are usually small and practical. They can include:
- departure times, such as leaving early to beat a wind or waiting for one to ease
- the order of stops, swapping two islands to sail with the wind rather than against it
- where the yacht spends a night, choosing a better-sheltered harbour or bay
- lunch and swim stops
- in stronger weather, staying in harbour for an extra night or skipping a stop altogether
Occasionally, conditions may affect the start or end of a trip. How that is handled depends on the booking terms.
Who decides
The skipper is responsible for the safety of the yacht and everyone on board, and has the final say on whether to sail, where to go and where to stop. That decision is based on official forecasts, local knowledge, the yacht and the experience of the people on board.
Guests are welcome to share preferences, such as a place they hope to see or a wish for a calmer passage, and a good skipper will take them into account where it is safe. The skipper's decision on safety grounds is not up for a vote.
What to expect on the day
Skippers usually brief guests on the plan each morning, and again if it changes. Expect to hear what the forecast shows, where the yacht is heading, roughly how long the passage will take and what to prepare, such as stowing loose items or wearing a lifejacket.
If a change affects plans ashore, such as a restaurant booking or a meeting point for friends, tell the skipper early so they can factor it in. Keep your phone charged and your contact details up to date. For questions before departure, contact info@croatiasailingweek.com.
How changes relate to your booking
Itinerary changes made for weather, safety or operational reasons are normally treated differently from a cancelled trip. What applies to you, including any alternatives, refunds or compensation, is set out in the booking terms and by applicable law. This page does not add to or change those terms.
Read the full booking terms and our cancellation and refunds page before you book. Travel insurance can cover some disruption costs that the booking does not,, as our guide to travel insurance for sailing trips explains.
Making the most of a changed plan
A changed route often turns up something good: a quieter harbour, a town you would not have chosen, or a lazy extra morning swimming in a sheltered bay. Flexible guests tend to enjoy their week most.
A few things help. Avoid booking flights home too close to the end of the trip, keep a little slack in any plans ashore, and pack for a range of weather, including a warm layer and a light waterproof. Above all, follow the skipper's briefing. The aim of every change is the same: a safe, comfortable week on the water.
Questions
Will I definitely visit every stop on the route?
Not necessarily. Routes are planned in advance, but the skipper may change stops or their order for weather, safety or harbour availability.
Can guests ask to change the route?
You can share preferences with the skipper, who will consider them where they are safe and practical. Safety decisions rest with the skipper.
Do I get a refund if a stop is missed?
This depends on the booking terms and applicable law. See the booking terms and the cancellation and refunds page for what applies.