ADRIATIC WINDS

The structure of the Adriatic region's wind movements comprises 8 main winds

The Bura is an unpredictable, north-western wind blowing from the land towards the sea. It blows in bursts and is both cold and dry, thus purifying and brightens the atmosphere. The visibility after a Bura is excellent and the weather is sunny and clear.Sailing during a Bura is exciting and challenging, yet requires caution -regarding both the preparedness of the boat and the crew. Experienced seamen have a proverb: 'The Bura says: 'When I am sailing, don't you sail!' '. Short, high waves with white crests are its characteristic, creating difficulties for navigation. The small drops formed by the wind create a so-called 'sea smoke' which significantly reduces the visibility. However, the Bura also has its good side. Thanks to the dry air it carries, the Adriatic speciality of wind-dried ham ('pršut') acquires its distinctive quality.
The Jugo is a south-western, warm and humid wind of moderate force that blows from the sea towards the land. It appears along the length of the coast in all seasons, although in summer somewhat less frequently. The wind, which gradually strengthens, creates long, soundless and foamless waves that hit the shore and then draw themselves back towards the high seas with a roar. The Jugo offers a particular experience to dynamic navigators, enabling the sailboat to reach high speeds. Additionally, fish usually bite well during this weather.
The Maestral is a typical summertime Adriatic wind blowing from the north-west and bringing nice and stable weather. This pleasant wind begins blowing around dawn and lasts until sunset. In summer, it offers a welcome cooling effect, bringing cleaner, healthier and colder air from the sea. The wind is of moderate strength and thanks to this it is favourable for sailing, so that you can safely yield to the movement of sea and the waves that peacefully embrace the sides of the boat.The remaining winds are of less significance for the inhabitants of the Adriatic area, but further out at sea they may be favourable to sailors.
Tramuntana - northerly, cooling wind that announces pleasant and beautiful weather.
Grego - usually, a moderate or strong north-easterly wind which carries dry, clear and cold weather.
Levant - easterly wind that blows during cloudy, humid or rainy weather.
Oštro - southerly, warm and damp wind.
Lebić - south-westerly, dry and warm wind which blows on the Adriatic after the Jugo, levelling the waves in shallow harbours.