RECOMMENDED ROUTES for pictoresque sailing in Croatia
NORTH DALMATIA sailing route I.
DAY 1. Šibenik – Skradin – NP Krka
Let you journey starts in National Park Krka, exploring its amazing nature. The Krka river is definitely the most fascinating among the rivers of Croatian karst. Its numerous waterfalls which, as well as those on the lakes of Plitvice, are formed by settling of the plaster of paris, a kind of limestone. The national park comprises the most part of the river’s course with the surrounding coastal area,from the historical town of Knin situated near the river’s spring to another historical town of Skradin. In that place, after the magnificent waterfalls, the river gradually passes into the lake of Prokljansko, and then into the deep sea gulf where another historical town Šibenik is situated. The river partly flows through the deep canyon into the limestone plateau, and partly makes the lake. Among numerous waterfalls Skradinski buk and Roški slap stick out with their special beauty. Between those waterfalls there is a small island of Visovac with the franciscan monastery.
DAY 2. Zlarin - Kaprije - Žirje
Sail through Šibenik islands, and discover Zlarin's coral tradition, Kaprije as a fishermen's island which has a footpath from one to another side of island, Žirje with ancinet ruins on South part, fishing wealth in its aquatorium, rich hunting area (hares, pheasants, etc.). Sail in Vodice port, spend a night in former fishing village, and now a biggest tourist centre on Middle Adriatic. The historical centre of Vodice is small and picturesque but the main activity takes place on the harbour, which is crammed with restaurants, restaurants and more restaurants plus a few boutiques and souvenir shops. There are some concrete "beaches" that get quite crowded in the summer but you can sail out to the offshore islets of Logorun, Tijat, Prvić.
DAY 3. Murter – Vrgada
The island of Murter is the largest island of Šibenik archipelago connected to land in a place called Tisno. There are four settlements on the island: Murter, Tisno, Jezera and Betina. Due to its position and the vicinity of National Park Kornati, the island of Murter has been interesting for many sailors who anchor in its bays. Sandy and pebbled beaches among others Slanica and Kosirina are very attractive. The island of Murter is a starting point on the way to National Park Kornati so it is often called the "Gate of Kornati" (Vrata Kornata). Murter is one of the favorite destinations of boaters and those who prefer peaceful vacations. It offers various types of accommodation (hotel, apartments, marina), nice and quiet beaches and numerous restaurants and inns. Vrgada's pine woods, picturesque coves with sandy and pebbly beaches and an exceptionally transparent and clean sea offer a unique pleasure of bathing and rest.All that can arouse the feelings of a modern Robinson in a man from a metropolis. With its atmosphere, Vrgada becomes a place for quiet vacations filled with relaxation and enjoying in an almost untouched nature. Guests can find a comfortable accommodation in private rooms, holiday apartments or in the shade of camps, and they can enjoy in fish specialties and the good cuisine of local restaurants.
DAY 4. Ždrelac bay
Ždrelac is a town on Pašman, one of the islands in the Zadar archipelago, which is connected with the town of Biograd by a ferryboat communication. This settlement developed around the church of Sveti Luka (St. Lucas) and expanded to several coves and the surrounding hills, including a new settlement near the bridge. It was named after a narrow passage, called Zdril, on whose end it is situated and which divides Pašman and Ugljan islands. Ždrelac is situated on the intersection of sea routes for excursions to nearby islands and the Kornati archipelago. It is an attractive destination for boaters and water sports enthusiast.
DAY 5. Telašćica bay
Telašćica bay is situated in the central part of the eastern Adriatic coast, in the SE part of the island of Dugi otok. Three basic phenomena are certainly the main characteristics of the Nature Park: the unique bay of Telašćica as one of the safest, the most beautiful and the largest havens on the Adriatic that includes 25 small bays and 69 km of the well-indented coastline, the cliffs of the island of Dugi otok or so-called «Stene», rising up to 200 m above the sea level and falling down vertically up to 90 m below the sea level, and finally the salt lake called «Mir» with its curative characteristics.In the Nature Park it is possible to dive on a few attractive locations next to the cliffs, walk along the paths and visit interesting places, and the panoramic view from the belvedere Grpašćak is something that must not be missed.
DAY 6. NP Kornati (Levrnaka - Piškera - Levsa)
Kornati, is the most indented island group on the whole of Mediterranean with as many as 140 uninhabited islands, islets and cliffs. It is a paradise for nautical experts, modern Robinsons and divers. The first time you visit Kornati you might be surprised by the clash of sharp whiteness of karst with soothing blueness of the sea hiding many secrets but one soon gets used to it and can see how these two complement each other perfectly. The "crowns" of Kornati are the best-known phenomenon of the Park. This beautiful name has been righteously given to white vertical cliffs facing the open sea. The crowns are witnesses, but also the most beautiful result of long geological processes. You will probably want to know whether people used to live in Kornati in the ancient times. You can visit Illyrian buildings and ruins, which are the oldest on the islands situated on the hills of the islands of Kornat and Žut. Fortress Tureta on the island of Kornat was built during Byzantine time probably in the 6th century and its function was to protect and watch over the ships on the then rather unsafe Adriatic Sea. Visit to the remains of Lavsa salt works, which are today sunken. Another interesting sight is the island of Vela Panitula with a Venetian castle dating back to the 16th century.
DAY 7. return
NORTH DALMATIA sailing route II.
DAY 1. Molat – Olib - Silba
Cruise around islands, to discover quiet bays and beaches. Besides recently caught fish, the islanders also offer homemade wine, oil and cheese. As for sports, you can go diving, fishing and, if you have your own board, windsurfing. Island of Silba if full with rich vegetation and beautiful little sandy or gravelled bays which are very important for a pleasant vacation in the untouched nature but also for development of nautical tourism. On the island you can find restaurants, caffe-bars, shops, post, exchange office and travel agency where you can get all kind of information. There are no roads for cars or motorcycles on Silba, so peace and quiet help you to relax and enjoy every second of your vacation. Silba, despite having no cars, is the liveliest of them, and is favoured by artists so has a rather bohemian atmosphere. The nightlife there is relaxed with great live music, including jazz (of course), and a disco. Olib is more sleepy. Like most Dalmatian islands, sandy Olib has no water sources, but unusually it has an undersea pipeline bringing Velebit's renowned pure water to the island. It also has many pheasants and rabbits, which people run after with pop guns. Some say Olib's cheese is better than the more famous one made on Pag, and the local wine and olive oil are also great stuff.
DAY 2. Mali Lošinj – Veli Lošinj
Mali Losinj is the largest town and is the main harbour on the island. It is located in a very deep inlet so its harbour is very well protected from the open sea. In its harbour you will find a marina for yachts and a shipyard. In the past, ship-building was the city's main source of income. Now, most of the population is occupied by tourism. This Mediterranean town is filled with historical churches and monuments as well as beautiful houses which were built long ago and are very well preserved. It is also known for its many restaurants and taverns which serve fantastic seafood and great traditional cuisine. Guests can enjoy walks along the promenade by the sea which stretches from Mali Losinj to the town of Cikat.
The town of Veli Losinj was built around the church of St. Nicolas and not far from it is a tower which was built in the 15th century to protect the harbour and town from pirates. Veli Losinj, by size, is smaller than Mali Losinj. It is surrounded by beautiful beaches and clear blue sea. Visitors can choose to come by boat or fly. Losinj has a small international airport for sport aircrafts and is great for those who would like to getaway for the weekend.
Sailing around Losinj can be a unique experience, for guests will have the chance to see a certain species of dolphin which lives in Losinj's aquatory.
DAY 3. Rab
On entery into the old city of Rab you'll be met by the white stone of the sunlit Square of St Christopher. There is a fountain in the square embellished with two sculptures of Kalifront and the shepherdess Draga, figures from a legend of chastity and unhappy love. The city is a typically medieval urban centre surrounded by walls that are in large part still standing. The old city is dominated by four bell towers mainly in the Romanesque style. Earlier, Rab was a Roman settlement, which was given the status of city by Octavius Augustus, who proclaimed it a municipium in the year 10 B.C. If you love old cities in which every building brings to mind dozens of generations, you will feel really good in Rab. Above many of the Renaissance and Gothic portals you can still see the crests of the aristocratic families of Rab, the descendants of whom are your kindly hosts of today. Right next to the city walls is the lovely Komrcar park, and below it a long path and bathing place. You can spend your holiday in the shade of ancient pines, to the smell of resin and the blue of the sea, without ever having to do without the conveniences the city has to offer.
DAY 4. Cres
The island of Cres, by size the first island in the Adriatic, is located in the northern part of the Bay of Kvarner. Its southern part, i.e. the town of Osor, is linked to the island of Lošinj by a trestle bridge. Cres is a hilly island, 66 km long and ranging in width from 2 to 12 km. The island's coastline , 248 km long, is indented; its western and southern part have a plenty of bays and pebbly beaches while the northern and eastern part are characterized with steep and rough rocks.
The highest tops of the island - Gorice (648m) and Sis (638) - offer a unique view of the Bay of Kvarner which will not leave anyone indifferent. The fresh water lake of Vrana, which covers the area of 5. 75 square kilometres , deserves attention as an unusual natural phenomenon.
The level of the lake is above the level of the surrounding sea, and its bottom is beneath the sea level only at the depth of 74 m. The landscape of Cres owes its attractivity to a sharp contrast between the northern submediterranean part covered with high and thick woods of oak medunac (Quercus lanuginosa) , hornbeam, elm, and chestnut trees, and the middle and southern parts which are covered with bare grazing lands and dense macchia. A great richness of the botanical and animal world, which boasts more than 1300 species and an exceptional number of edemic species, is a genuine challenge to all nature lovers.
Cres is also one of the last habitats of a rare bird species - griffon vulture.
DAY 5. Susak - Ilovik
Ilovik is the southernmost inhabited island of the Cres - Losinj archipelago. The present day settlement originated about 200 years ago when farmers from Veli Losinj came to settle permanently here. Ilovik is said to be the island of flowers because almost every house has oleanders, roses and other flowers growing around it. The lovely beaches in the small coves on the island are a true oasis of peace. The island of Susak is such a place, just now opening up to the European travel imagination. Long lost in relative isolation from the rest of the Croatian population, it has developed its own rich culture, dialect and traditions. About 40 miles southeast of the tip of the Istrian peninsula, Susak is a little larger than the average Croat island, and is one of the relatively few to have supported a native population for hundreds of years. It has the only sand beach in all of the Croatian islands, and its vineyards produce some of the best wine in the region. It is sunny, lush and untouched.
DAY 6. Premuda – Božava
Island Premuda is situated west of Dugi Otok, covered with macchia and dense vegetation, with numerous little coves and exquisite beaches washed by crystal-clear sea. The island represent a genuine peaceful oasis and are an ideal refuge for all those who want to escape everyday life. The sunken wreckage of the ship Sveti Istvan in the waters near Premuda is an inviting challenge for experienced divers. Božava is village with a small harbour and a tourist resort on the NE coast of the island of Dugi Otok.
DAY 7. return
NORTH DALMATIA yachting route I.
Day 1. Šibenik – Skradin – NP Krka
Let you journey starts in National Park Krka, exploring its amazing nature. The Krka river is definitely the most fascinating among the rivers of Croatian karst. Its numerous waterfalls which, as well as those on the lakes of Plitvice, are formed by settling of the plaster of paris, a kind of limestone. The national park comprises the most part of the river’s course with the surrounding coastal area,from the historical town of Knin situated near the river’s spring to another historical town of Skradin. In that place, after the magnificent waterfalls, the river gradually passes into the lake of Prokljansko, and then into the deep sea gulf where another historical town Šibenik is situated. The river partly flows through the deep canyon into the limestone plateau, and partly makes the lake. Among numerous waterfalls Skradinski buk and Roški slap stick out with their special beauty. Between those waterfalls there is a small island of Visovac with the franciscan monastery.
Day 2. Zlarin – Kaprije - Žirje – Vodice
Sail through Šibenik islands, and discover Zlarin's coral tradition, Kaprije as a fishermen's island which has a footpath from one to another side of island, Žirje with ancinet ruins on South part, fishing wealth in its aquatorium, rich hunting area (hares, pheasants, etc.). Sail in Vodice port, spend a night in former fishing village, and now a biggest tourist centre on Middle Adriatic. The historical centre of Vodice is small and picturesque but the main activity takes place on the harbour, which is crammed with restaurants, restaurants and more restaurants plus a few boutiques and souvenir shops. There are some concrete "beaches" that get quite crowded in the summer but you can sail out to the offshore islets of Logorun, Tijat, Prvić.
Day 3. Murter – Kornat (Žut)
The island of Murter is the largest island of Šibenik archipelago connected to land in a place called Tisno. There are four settlements on the island: Murter, Tisno, Jezera and Betina. Due to its position and the vicinity of National Park Kornati, the island of Murter has been interesting for many sailors who anchor in its bays. Sandy and pebbled beaches among others Slanica and Kosirina are very attractive. The island of Murter is a starting point on the way to National Park Kornati so it is often called the "Gate of Kornati" (Vrata Kornata). Murter is one of the favorite destinations of boaters and those who prefer peaceful vacations. It offers various types of accommodation (hotel, apartments, marina), nice and quiet beaches and numerous restaurants and inns. Also are organized various sport competitions during the summer months (like regatta Murter - Kornati in April). The island of Žut belongs to the island group of Kornati situated between the island of Pašman on one side and the island of Kornat on the other. This longitudinal island has a steep and very indented coast with many bays such as Luka, Hiljača, Sarušćica, Žut, Bizikovica and other secluded bays one can reach with small sailing or fishermen boats. There are no permanent settlements on the island with only fishermen, sheepherders, and olive and fig growers visiting the island occasionally from the island of Murter. The surrounding waters, as well as the entire Kornati archipelago, are perfect for water sports. The ACI yacht harbour is located on this island.
Day 4. Telašćica bay
Telašćica bay is situated in the central part of the eastern Adriatic coast, in the SE part of the island of Dugi otok. Three basic phenomena are certainly the main characteristics of the Nature Park: the unique bay of Telašćica as one of the safest, the most beautiful and the largest havens on the Adriatic that includes 25 small bays and 69 km of the well-indented coastline, the cliffs of the island of Dugi otok or so-called «Stene», rising up to 200 m above the sea level and falling down vertically up to 90 m below the sea level, and finally the salt lake called «Mir» with its curative characteristics.In the Nature Park it is possible to dive on a few attractive locations next to the cliffs, walk along the paths and visit interesting places, and the panoramic view from the belvedere Grpašćak is something that must not be missed.
Day 5. Molat – Olib – Silba
Cruise around islands, to discover quiet bays and beaches. Besides recently caught fish, the islanders also offer homemade wine, oil and cheese. As for sports, you can go diving, fishing and, if you have your own board, windsurfing. Island of Silba if full with rich vegetation and beautiful little sandy or gravelled bays which are very important for a pleasant vacation in the untouched nature but also for development of nautical tourism. On the island you can find restaurants, caffe-bars, shops, post, exchange office and travel agency where you can get all kind of information. There are no roads for cars or motorcycles on Silba, so peace and quiet help you to relax and enjoy every second of your vacation. Silba, despite having no cars, is the liveliest of them, and is favoured by artists so has a rather bohemian atmosphere. The nightlife there is relaxed with great live music, including jazz (of course), and a disco. Olib is more sleepy. Like most Dalmatian islands, sandy Olib has no water sources, but unusually it has an undersea pipeline bringing Velebit's renowned pure water to the island. It also has many pheasants and rabbits, which people run after with pop guns. Some say Olib's cheese is better than the more famous one made on Pag, and the local wine and olive oil are also great stuff.
Day 6. Mali Lošinj – Rab
The gentle climate of the island of Lošinj is seen in its richness of plant types. About 80 types of plants, mainly exotic plants, were brought from other parts of the world by masters and sailors from Lošinj, who planted them in and around their home gardens. Because of the typical climate plants from south Dalmatia and Sicily can be grown. Here grow agaves, Mexican cactus (opuntia), palm trees, magnolias, mirth, pistachios, mimosa, fig tree from India (karmus-nassarah), lemon, orange and mandarin trees (brought from Vietnam to Palermo, and then to Mali Lošinj). Thick pinewoods around Mali Lošinj became the green belt that protects the town and the harbour from the north wind. Today the thick pinewoods of Lošinj are the symbol of the island and a valuable asset in its tourist development. The island of Rab is known for it's Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild and gentle winters. There are many attractive bathing sites, fantastic bays and sandy beaches, surrounded by pine-trees and crystal clear waters. Rab is surrounded by many islands and therefore famous as El Dorado for nautical enthusiasts. Rab is an extraordinary green island. The air is mild and full of fragrances of uncounted Mediterranean flowers and plants. A culinary highlight is the native, well-tasting lamb and the fish freshly caught from the sea. The historical old town of Rab is well known for its famous 4 clock towers.
Day 7. return
NORTH DALMATIA yachting route II.
DAY 1. Molat – Olib - Silba
Cruise around islands, to discover quiet bays and beaches. Besides recently caught fish, the islanders also offer homemade wine, oil and cheese. As for sports, you can go diving, fishing and, if you have your own board, windsurfing. Island of Silba if full with rich vegetation and beautiful little sandy or gravelled bays which are very important for a pleasant vacation in the untouched nature but also for development of nautical tourism. On the island you can find restaurants, caffe-bars, shops, post, exchange office and travel agency where you can get all kind of information. There are no roads for cars or motorcycles on Silba, so peace and quiet help you to relax and enjoy every second of your vacation. Silba, despite having no cars, is the liveliest of them, and is favoured by artists so has a rather bohemian atmosphere. The nightlife there is relaxed with great live music, including jazz (of course), and a disco. Olib is more sleepy. Like most Dalmatian islands, sandy Olib has no water sources, but unusually it has an undersea pipeline bringing Velebit's renowned pure water to the island. It also has many pheasants and rabbits, which people run after with pop guns. Some say Olib's cheese is better than the more famous one made on Pag, and the local wine and olive oil are also great stuff.
DAY 2. Mali Lošinj – Veli Lošinj
Mali Losinj is the largest town and is the main harbour on the island. It is located in a very deep inlet so its harbour is very well protected from the open sea. In its harbour you will find a marina for yachts and a shipyard. In the past, ship-building was the city's main source of income. Now, most of the population is occupied by tourism. This Mediterranean town is filled with historical churches and monuments as well as beautiful houses which were built long ago and are very well preserved. It is also known for its many restaurants and taverns which serve fantastic seafood and great traditional cuisine. Guests can enjoy walks along the promenade by the sea which stretches from Mali Losinj to the town of Cikat.
The town of Veli Losinj was built around the church of St. Nicolas and not far from it is a tower which was built in the 15th century to protect the harbour and town from pirates. Veli Losinj, by size, is smaller than Mali Losinj. It is surrounded by beautiful beaches and clear blue sea. Visitors can choose to come by boat or fly. Losinj has a small international airport for sport aircrafts and is great for those who would like to getaway for the weekend.
Sailing around Losinj can be a unique experience, for guests will have the chance to see a certain species of dolphin which lives in Losinj's aquatory.
DAY 3. Pomer - Pula
Pomer is located on the western side of the Medulin Bay. It was settled in Roman times, which is confirmed by well-preserved excavations of Roman villas and the remains of a thermal spa. Of the historical monuments, the Church of St. Flora from the Byzantine period stands out. Pomer was once well known for raising and breeding of fish and molluscs, and today there are many seafood restaurants as a result of this.
Pula is placed on the southernmost part of the Istrian peninsula, Jason and Medea founded the mythical town Polai, the source of life. Later the Romans changed it into a divine town for the "pleasure of the rich". The Amphitheatre, the Sergii Triumphal Arch, Augustus Temple, The Double and Herculus Gates witness that glorious time. Famous writers and composers (Dante, Thomas Mann, James Joyce, Franz Lehar, and others) were inspired by this town that has existed for three millennia, and where the old meets the new. The area of Pula is magnificent, with country stone houses and modern buildings, quiet huckleberry shade and the view to the culture of mankind. Therefore Pula cannot be avoided and you will be tempted to return once again.
DAY 4. NP Brijuni
Brijuni. Across the Fazana channel, near Pula, lie the Brijuni islands, forming a seven kilometers long necklace between Pula and Rovinj. Nature, nudged along by man, has created a real paradise here. Before the newly founded tourist centres in Italy took over, the Brijuni were an exclusive European summer resort. The peerless beauty of the national park of Brijuni with its rich harmony of flora and fauna, historical monuments and modern hotels still draws politicians and other distinguished guests from all over the world. The stone from Brijuni has been used since Roman times in many buildings in Pula, Trieste, Venice and Vienna. It provides the backbone to an island where you will find deep shade under rich pine vegetation. On the biggest island - the Veli Brijun there is a zoo with many kinds of animals.
DAY 5. Ilovik - Susak
Ilovik is the southernmost inhabited island of the Cres - Losinj archipelago. The present day settlement originated about 200 years ago when farmers from Veli Losinj came to settle permanently here. Ilovik is said to be the island of flowers because almost every house has oleanders, roses and other flowers growing around it. The lovely beaches in the small coves on the island are a true oasis of peace. The island of Susak is such a place, just now opening up to the European travel imagination. Long lost in relative isolation from the rest of the Croatian population, it has developed its own rich culture, dialect and traditions. About 40 miles southeast of the tip of the Istrian peninsula, Susak is a little larger than the average Croat island, and is one of the relatively few to have supported a native population for hundreds of years. It has the only sand beach in all of the Croatian islands, and its vineyards produce some of the best wine in the region. It is sunny, lush and untouched.
DAY 6. Premuda - Božava
Island Premuda is situated west of Dugi Otok, covered with macchia and dense vegetation, with numerous little coves and exquisite beaches washed by crystal-clear sea. The island represent a genuine peaceful oasis and are an ideal refuge for all those who want to escape everyday life. The sunken wreckage of the ship Sveti Istvan in the waters near Premuda is an inviting challenge for experienced divers. Božava is village with a small harbour and a tourist resort on the NE coast of the island of Dugi Otok.
DAY 7. return
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