Enjoyment under sail – cooking on board made easy

Sailing works up an appetite – every crew knows that. Whether after a long stretch, a swim stop in a dreamy bay, or simply because the sunset calls: Good food and drink are as much a part of a sailing holiday as the sea is to the horizon.

And the culinary possibilities on board are more diverse than ever: Many of our new Dufour yachts in Croatia come equipped with a built-in grill – perfect for fresh fish or grilled vegetables at sunset in the cockpit. On many other yachts, you can book a grill as an extra – for the perfect dinner on deck, overlooking the sparkling water.

For families, a barbecue evening on board is a real highlight: Especially popular are Ćevapčići (small meat rolls), Ražnjići (skewers), Pljeskavica (spicy minced patties), or simply Kobasice (sausages). You can find these pre-seasoned at the supermarket or – even better – at the local "Mesnica" (butcher), which you can find in almost every island town. Many of these butchers work with traditional recipes – quality you can taste!

Culinary Ideas for the Journey

Fish Brudet – a Taste of Dalmatia on Your Plate

The Dalmatian fish stew classic is aromatic, honest, and wonderfully simple. Perfect for a cozy evening in the bay.

Ingredients (for 4 people):

• 600-800 g fish fillet (e.g., sea bream, monkfish, sea bass)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 3-4 tbsp olive oil
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 150 ml white wine
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley
• Salt & pepper
• White bread for dipping

Preparation:

• Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
• Add tomatoes, white wine, and bay leaf, bring to a boil.
• Cut the fish into pieces, season with salt and pepper, and gently place in the broth.
• Simmer gently over medium heat for about 10–15 minutes – do not stir.
• Sprinkle with parsley and serve with fresh white bread.

Tip: Brudet also pairs excellently with grilled fish – if the onboard grill is ready to go! It's best to buy the fish fresh at the local fish market or – with a bit of luck – directly from the fisherman at the quay. It's also worth strolling through the local market, where you can find seasonal vegetables, fresh herbs, olive oil, and other regional products – often of the best quality and at pleasantly affordable prices.

Especially if you don't want to eat out every day, this is a delightful and cost-effective alternative: uncomplicated cooking on board – with authentic ingredients, local specialties, and plenty of holiday flair.

Of course, a visit to one of the many traditional Konobas along the Adriatic is a must – whether rustic and charming or creative with a modern twist. In our Konoba Guide – Gourmet Stars along the Adriatic, you'll find our personal recommendations – perfect for all gourmets and explorers.

Vegetarian Mediterranean Pasta – Quick, Light & Summery

The onboard kitchen also offers wonderful options for vegetarians – with simple ingredients and lots of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 400 g pasta (e.g., penne or spaghetti)
• 2-3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 300 g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small zucchini, sliced
• 2 handfuls of arugula
• Olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano
• Parmesan (optional)

Preparation:

• Cook pasta al dente.
• Heat olive oil in a large pan, sauté garlic and zucchini.
• Add cherry tomatoes, sauté briefly.
• Drain pasta and mix directly.
• Serve with arugula and, if desired, Parmesan.

Tip for Vegans: Simply omit the cheese and enhance with a bit of lemon zest – adds freshness and aroma!

Tuna Pasta Dalmatian Style – Hearty & Filling

A true classic for hunger after anchoring – uncomplicated and prepared in no time:

Ingredients:

• 250-300 g pasta
• 1 can tuna in olive oil
• 1 onion, 1 garlic clove
• 1 small can diced tomatoes
• Capers, black olives
• Oregano, salt, pepper

Preparation:

Sauté onion and garlic, add tuna, tomatoes, capers, and olives. Season with spices, let simmer briefly, fold in pasta – done!

Do you love good food by the water?
Then discover many more recipe ideas in our Culinary & Lifestyle blog category – for gourmets, connoisseurs, and all who love to cook fresh & uncomplicated. By the way, Klaus Pitter also shares his personal favorite recipes for the onboard kitchen – with simple ingredients, lots of flavor, and the right touch for culinary holiday fun on the water.

Conclusion: A Holiday with Flavor – Whether Onboard or in the Konoba

A good sailing day often ends with an even better meal. Whether at the grill on board, with simple onboard pasta, a delicious fish stew, or at the host in the Konoba: Culinary delights are part of the experience – and enjoyment is simply part of the holiday. Enjoy your holiday – with flavor & sea!

Are you still looking for the right yacht for your trip? Then browse our charter fleet now and get inspired: