Kaštela: The Seven Fortified Jewels of the Bay

Kaštela consists of seven distinct, historic towns—Štafilić, Novi, Stari, Lukšić, Kambelovac, Gomilica, and Sućurac—that stretch along a massive, crescent-shaped bay between Trogir and Split. Each town was historically built around a castle, constructed for protection during the centuries of conflict that defined this region. Today, Kaštela offers a unique, highly convenient base for charter yachts, providing easy access to both the historical charms of Split and the natural beauty of the nearby islands.

For the modern sailor, Kaštela is a standout logistics center. It is home to the massive, state-of-the-art Marina Kaštela, one of the most modern and comprehensive yachting facilities in Croatia. Despite its proximity to major transit hubs and the airport, the individual towns retain a local, authentic character, with quiet stone waterfronts and a slow-paced, traditional atmosphere that is perfect for families or those looking for a relaxed, stress-free start to their holiday.

The Bay of Kaštela is the largest in Central Dalmatia and offers safe, deep-water navigation. Protected from the open sea by the Marjan and Čiovo peninsulas, the bay is an ideal environment for cruisers of all experience levels. Captains simply need to navigate the wide entrance to the bay and exercise standard care when entering the busy, modern marina basins.

Marina Kaštela is the primary choice for berthing, offering unparalleled facilities for yachts of all sizes. While there are some small, localized anchoring spots within the bay, the marina's convenience and security make it the overwhelmingly preferred choice for most charter crews.

Kaštela is a region deeply connected to the land and the sea. The fertile plain between the sea and the Kozjak mountain is famous for its olive groves, figs, and vineyards. A true hidden gem here is the ancient olive tree in Kaštel Štafilić, which is believed to be over 1,500 years old, serving as a silent witness to the history of the seven towns.

The area is also culturally vibrant, with local festivals and events taking place in the historical cores of each kaštel throughout the summer. It provides a more authentic, less "touristy" view of Dalmatian life, where you can easily find local taverns serving traditional meals in the shadows of the old defensive towers that once held off invaders.