Living in Prague has many advantages—rich culture, stunning architecture, and a central European location that makes travel incredibly accessible. While the Czech Republic is landlocked, the sea is never far away. For sailing enthusiasts or those dreaming of a catamaran holiday, Prague is perfectly positioned for easy access to some of Europe’s best sailing destinations. Whether you’re after warm turquoise waters, reliable winds, or island-hopping adventures, here are the best places to set sail from if you’re starting your journey in Prague.

1. Split, Croatia – The Gold Standard for Sailing Getaways

Travel time from Prague:

• By plane: Direct flights in under 1.5 hours

• By car: Around 10 hours

Croatia is the undisputed favourite for Central Europeans looking for the perfect sailing holiday, and Split is its beating heart. With direct flights and excellent highway connections, getting to Split from Prague is a breeze. Once you’re there, you’re spoiled for choice: Split’s main marina, ACI Marina Split, is one of the most professional in the country, with a wide range of catamarans to charter.

From Split, you can easily explore the Dalmatian coast—visiting islands like Hvar, Brač, Vis, and Korčula. The distances between islands are short, making it ideal for first-timers or families. Add to that calm seas, steady winds, historic towns, and great food, and it’s easy to see why so many Czech sailors return here year after year.

Why it’s great:

• Short, direct travel from Prague

• Variety of charter companies and modern catamarans

• Smooth sailing with easy navigation

• Rich culture and island life

2. Trogir, Croatia – Split’s Quiet (and Closer) Neighbour

Travel time from Prague:

• As above, Trogir is just 10 minutes from Split airport

If you like the idea of sailing from Split but want a more laid-back starting point, Trogir is ideal. This charming UNESCO-listed town is just a stone’s throw from Split Airport and offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe. Marina Baotić, just outside the historic centre, has excellent facilities and a strong selection of catamarans.

From Trogir, you can follow similar sailing routes as you would from Split—but with the added bonus of starting your journey in a less crowded marina and spending your first evening wandering Trogir’s beautiful old town.

Why it’s great:

• Same sailing opportunities as Split

• Quieter, more scenic departure

• Close to the airport

• Easy parking and logistics

3. Zadar, Croatia – Gateway to the Kornati Islands

Travel time from Prague:

• By plane: Direct flights in under 1.5 hours (seasonal)

• By car: Around 9 hours

Another Croatian gem, Zadar offers something a little different. It’s the best base for exploring the Kornati National Park, an archipelago of over 100 islands and islets that feel like sailing through a stone-and-sea labyrinth. Zadar is well-connected by road and air and has a handful of good marinas, including Marina Dalmacija in nearby Bibinje.

This area is more about raw natural beauty and less about nightlife, making it a fantastic choice for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking solitude on the sea.

Why it’s great:

• Direct flights and easy driving distance

• Gateway to the Kornati Islands

• Peaceful and unique sailing environment

• Good for more experienced sailors or longer trips

4. Lefkada, Greece – Ionian Beauty and Easy Cruising

Travel time from Prague:

• By plane: Flights to Preveza (PVK) – seasonal, under 2.5 hours

• By car: Not recommended (over 16 hours)

If you’re willing to hop on a plane, Greece becomes a tempting option—and Lefkada is one of the easiest places to start. Unlike most Greek islands, Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a bridge, and the nearby airport in Preveza offers seasonal direct flights from Central Europe.

The Ionian Sea is perfect for relaxed catamaran sailing: calm waters, steady winds, beautiful beaches, and charming harbour towns. From Lefkada, you can explore places like Meganisi, Kefalonia, and Ithaca with short daily sails.

Why it’s great:

• Smooth, predictable sailing conditions

• Picturesque villages and crystal-clear waters

• Friendly to beginner and family crews

• Authentic Greek experience

5. Athens, Greece – Classic Start to a Cycladic Adventure

Travel time from Prague:

• By plane: Direct flights in under 2.5 hours

If the idea of a more adventurous sailing route appeals, flying from Prague to Athens opens up the world-famous Cyclades. You’ll find a huge number of charter companies operating out of Alimos Marina, one of Europe’s largest.

From Athens, you can set off toward islands like Kythnos, Syros, Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini, though it’s worth noting that the Meltemi winds in this region can be strong—great for experienced sailors but something to consider if you’re less confident.

Why it’s great:

• Rich sailing culture and well-equipped marinas

• Access to iconic Greek islands

• Wide range of catamarans and itineraries

• Great food and history

6. Italy – Sail the Aeolian or Amalfi Coast

Travel time from Prague:

• By plane: Flights to Naples or Sicily (Catania/Palermo) in 2–2.5 hours

• By car: Long drive, not ideal (12–16 hours depending on destination)

Italy may not be the first country that comes to mind for sailing, but it’s stunning from the sea. If you’re flying, Naples is a great gateway to the Amalfi Coast and Capri, while Sicily gives you access to the volcanic Aeolian Islands, including Stromboli and Lipari.

Both areas offer exciting sailing, dramatic coastlines, and incredible food. Catamaran charter bases are well-established in Salerno, Palermo, and Portorosa.

Why it’s great:

• Unique cultural flavour

• Active sailing mixed with luxury and history

• Beautiful, less crowded anchorages

• Great wine, food, and gelato

7. Montenegro – An Underrated Jewel

Travel time from Prague:

• By plane: Direct flights to Tivat or Podgorica (under 2 hours)

• By car: Around 12 hours

Just south of Croatia, Montenegro is a rising star in the sailing world. Its dramatic coastline, deep bays, and medieval towns offer a fresh alternative to the busy Croatian routes. Kotor Bay, often called the southernmost fjord in Europe, is especially stunning.

Montenegro is slightly less polished than Croatia but often cheaper, and the marinas (like Porto Montenegro) are luxurious and well-run.

Why it’s great:

• Spectacular natural scenery

• Less touristy than Croatia

• Excellent charter infrastructure

• Ideal for a quieter experience

In Summary

From Prague, you’re never more than a short flight—or a scenic drive—away from some of Europe’s best sailing waters. For ease, reliability, and short travel time, Split and Trogir in Croatia are top picks. If you’re craving Greek islands, Lefkada or Athens offer something special with just a bit more travel. And for something a little off the beaten path, Montenegro and Italy deliver unforgettable sailing experiences.

Living in landlocked Prague doesn’t mean you’re far from the sea. In fact, it may just be the perfect base to explore the Mediterranean—one sail at a time.