Itinerary Zadar 2
Zadar – Vrgada – Sali – Kornati – Kornati – Skradin – Zlarin - Zadar
Day 1
Zadar – Vrgada
The sailing itinerary can be diverse in this region. Zadar is the oldest inhabited city in Croatia. Sailing in Zadar is an incredible choice for both novice and experienced sailing enthusiasts. The best time for the Zadar sailing itinerary is from May to September, with average temperatures ranging from 19°C in May to 22°C in September. During this period, Zadar is also the most crowded. The Mediterranean summer is dry and warm. The average temperatures in this period are between 26 and 30°C, with winds of 10-20 knots. However, it is also the time when the infamous Bura (a cold, violent gust from the north) and Jugo (a strong and humid wind from the south) bring storms in the evenings. Zadar is recognized as one of the best departure ports to sail and uncover the beautiful world of Kornati Islands and several other small islets in the area. There are 2 main marinas close to Zadar City Center, Marina Borik and Marina Zadar. Set sail from these exclusive marinas on a sailing yacht, motor boat, catamaran or gulet from these exclusive marinas. Zadar’s itinerary has plenty of berths, with a good choice of both marina and free anchorage options. Check-in at the marina and set sail for Vrgada. Sailing time is estimated at 15NM, depending on the route and type of boat. Vrgada is a natural beauty with its golden sandy beaches surrounded by pine trees. The island of Vrgada offers a unique experience of the "Mediterranean as it once was." The tradition of welcoming tourists on mules is a long-standing custom. Relax and enjoy the rhythm of life on the island while you are in Vrgada. The nights are blessedly silent, and the stars can light up the sky. Vrgada is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia, with crystal-clear waters and a tranquil ambiance. Zaglav and Gavina are some of the famous beaches worth visiting. The island is surrounded by lush vegetation and the sea, which makes it an ideal place for nature lovers and those who want to escape from the hectic city life. It also has several hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Vrgada is known for its traditional fishing village atmosphere, and there are several fishing spots on the island where you can try your hand at fishing. Restoran Bracera and Hakuna Matata Vrgada are 2 food joints recommended at Vrgada. The other option is to buy fresh seafood from local fishermen and grill it on the boat if you enjoy mooring on a buoy in the evening.
Day 2
Vrgada – Sali
Although Sali is the largest village on the island of Dugi Otok, it has less than 2,000 inhabitants. With a long history of agriculture and fishing, Sali has a classic Mediterranean feel. The distance between the two locations is approximately 15NM. During your stay, you can admire the centuries-old olive groves that make the Sali landscape so beautiful. The town of Marina Sali is scenic and well-guarded. Sali is located on the island of Dugi Otok. Many of the restaurants’ terraces in Sali feature a sea view. Hence, enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the sunset with your sailing partners. Sali is also rich in cultural heritage. It has various historical churches and chapels; the Church of Our Lady of Health and the Chapel of St. Roko are among the few. There are many family-run restaurants on the island. Speak to the locals, to get some recommendations. If you’re feeling adventurous, head west to sail under the stunning cliffs of Dugi Otok, then return to the secluded anchorage on the eastern side of the ‘Long Island’. The fishing village of Sali will be a comeback to civilisation, where you will find some modest shops, cafés and restaurants. You can also hire bicycles and explore the island’s terrain. Konoba Ribar is a traditional seafood restaurant that serves a variety of fresh fish dishes, including grilled fish and fish stew. Konoba Nono, Konoba Kod Marka and Konoba Knez are small family-run restaurants that serve conventional Croatian cuisine, including fish, meat and pasta dishes.
Day 3
Sali - Kornati
After breakfast and a swim stop in the crystal-clear water of Sali, your Day 3 journey begins. You will head to Kornati Islands National Park which is located on the southern tip of Dugi Otok. The sailing distance between Sali and the Kornati Islands is approximately 30NM. It would take a sailboat around 4-5 hours to cover this distance, depending on wind and sea conditions. The Kornati Archipelago consists of 140 islands and is home to a national park known as the ‘Nautical Paradise. Experienced sailors can have some adventure here, by sailing through the archipelago's outermost edges. Stay inside the park, where you can anchor in a serene bay and enjoy the sun, if you like a more leisurely day. It is important to know that you need a ticket to take your boat to this part of the islands. The ACI Marina Piškera is a contemporary marina with all the necessary amenities. The marina is located on the west side of the park, near the island of Piškera. It has 120 berths, a restaurant, a grocery store and other amenities. The archipelago is divided into Upper and Lower Kornati. The typical impressive cliffs are mainly found on the Lower Kornati. Many of them rise up to 60-80 meters and sink more than 100 meters underwater. The unique landscape offers fantastic photo opportunities and is, therefore, a must-visit spot for any budding travel photographer. The Kornati National Park has 20 top restaurants where you can taste local, fresh, tasty specialties, complemented by excellent wines. Check out Konoba Levnaka, U.O.Strižnja Kornati, or Konoba Ante Vrulje for good traditional food.
Day 4
Kornati
Spend another day in Kornati Islands. Take time to explore the flora and fauna of the Kornati Archipelago on your second day. The Kornati Islands were declared a national park in 1980 due to their unique underwater ecosystem. Its marine world features interesting algae, corals, and sponges that are rare in other areas . Alternatively, many fragrant herbs grow on its land, like sage, feather grass and xeranthemum. This foliage aromatizes the air around spring. Visit the Konoba Opat on the southern tip of the island, and enjoy some delicious local cuisine right on the waterfront. Most of the outer islands in Kornati have high cliffs facing the open sea. The islands in this archipelago are known for their desertic appearance and peculiar stone walls that are noticeable from the sea. These rock faces are the result of earth's crust which organical fissures and fractures shape them into recognizable human facial traits. These rock faces are, actually, the result of faulty development in the earth's crust. The erosion process of these enormous surfaces also contributes to this naturally-occurring phenomenon. Try some traditional restaurants for hearty Mediterranean seafood galore at restaurant Trabakul Kornati. Konoba Opat, Core Kornati, Konoba Levranka and Konoba Šoleta are some of the other restaurants in Kornati, offering natural environment and terrific food.
Day 5
Kornati – Skradin
After resting an extra day in Kornati, it is time to sail from the Adriatic Sea towards the Dalmatian Coast. Sailing to Skradin by private boat, you will need to sail north-east from Kornati. Skradin is located almost 50NM miles from Kornati, on the Krka River. On the way to Skradin, you will sail across Otok Kakan, Otok Kaprije, Otok Zmajan and Otok Zlarin Islands. After sailing 8NM from Šibenik, via the spectacularly narrow riverbed of the Krka River and the Prukljan strait, you will pass the Šibenik Channel and arrive in Skradin. Skradin is a gorgeous Mediterranean village with winding alleyways, an intriguing past and delicious cuisine. This island's history dates back to the Neolithic Era, and you can visit the historical remains and medieval fortresses, there. The belvedere and the bridge on the A1 Motor/Highway, leading to Split, are where you will find Skradin's most scenic view. Moor your yacht or catamaran safely in ACI Marina Skradin. It is arguably the most beautiful marina on the Adriatic Coast. There are 180 berths at the marina, which is open all year long. Do remember to explore the most famous waterfall of the Krka National Park. Skradinski Buk and Roški Slap are the two most well-known and frequently visited regions of the Krka National Park. The Skradin Tower Clock and the Bibich Winery are places worth seeing. Skradin offers a wide range of restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Konoba Ribarska Koliba is a riverside restaurant specializing in traditional Croatian seafood dishes while Konoba Kod Marka, Bistro Skradin, Pizzeria Skradinski Buk and Restaurant Skradin serve traditional Croatian dishes in a cozy and rustic atmosphere.
Day 6
Skradin - Zlarin
On Day 6, the route will shift your river cruise back to seafaring. The sailing trip will now take you to the island of Zlarin during which sailors rejuvenate their mind and body. The lush green Krka National Park and a swim in the fresh water of the waterfalls add variety to this yacht charter itinerary. The island of Zlarin is a natural gem in the Šibenik Archipelago. This carefree island has about 300 inhabitants. Zlarin, occasionally known as ‘the Golden Island’, is known for its breathtaking nature and distinct coral harvesting customs. Dock your sailboat or catamaran and explore the pine, fig plantations and cypress forests. Water, electricity and permanent moorings are available at the pier. The village has grocery stores, restaurants, an ambulance, a post office, a small market and a museum, not to mention the golden beaches and picturesque coves. Also, you may buy various coral souvenirs in the surrounding galleries and stores. While on the island, you should also visit the Coral Museum. Treat your taste buds at the Prslika Restaurant. The port of Zalrin is shielded from all winds except the ones from west and northwest. The berth for yachts is located on the south side of the 140 meter-long pier.
Day 7
Zlarin – Zadar
After relaxing in the calm island of Zlarin for a night, and treating your senses to the delicious Zlarinian cuisine, the exquisite Zadar sailing itinerary has reached its final destination. Sail out from Zlarin in the morning after breakfast. The distance from Zlarin back to Zadar is 32NM. This pleasant cruise will take you along the unique coastline of Central Dalmatia, passing Biograd Na Moru, the ‘white city by the sea’. You will also pass the shallow islands of Pašman, Ugljan and Dugi Otok. When you leave your floating vacation home, you can relax back on land in the old town of Zadar. As you approach the port of Zadar, remember to refuel your chartered yacht before checking out. If you are spending the evening in Zadar, head to the Sea Organ on the promenade to see the Sun Salute; an impressive art installation consisting of 300 multi-layered glass solar panels. Zadar is a cool place to hang out on the last day. Do your last minute shopping there to bring back memories from this extraordinary region.