The main subject of this study is the development of nautical tourism on the island of Vis and its impact on the upgrowth of the destination in general. Since the notion of 'nautical tourism' is complex because it includes a maritime component, this study, first of all, defines the notion and forms of maritime traffic which are created under the influence of many motives. Expansive growth of nautical tourism has been directly related to the development of maritime affairs and shipping techniques, and, in Croatia, sudden development began in the 1970s, with an uncontrolled construction of the marina and port complexes along the Adriatic coast. After defining general and historical determinants of nautical tourism, the island of Vis is described in regard to its geographical features, ongoing tourism progress and tourist attraction basis which is as a keystone of the tourist offer. Since nautical tourism is to a certain extent exclusive and brings together financially strong customers, it encourages the development of the destinationto which it gravitates through increased tourist consumption. However, it brings side effects which can be negatively reflected on the attractiveness of the destination.In the context of the island of Vis, both positive and negative impacts of the development of nautical tourism and its influence on the overall development of the island are mentioned.