Zadar is a Croatian seaside city located on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia. This stunning city offers a lot for sightseeing as it is rich in historical sites, beautiful architecture. Moreover, the region is filled with amazing natural landscapes that worth visiting during this Zadar itinerary!
The location of the city makes in an ideal starting point for a sailing holiday and to discover the stunning Dalmatian coast of Croatia. Rent a boat in Zadar and set sail for an exciting adventure along the coast.
Practical information
To take a boat cruise in the Zadar archipelago in Croatia, you will be required to present the coastal permit. If you do not have the permit which includes the VHF radio license, you will have to contact the ANFR.
When to leave? It is best to take a sailing cruise from May to June or from September to October, to avoid the crowds of Julians and Augustians.
What is the nearest airport? The city of Zadar is fortunate to have its own airport: Zračna Luka Zadar. It is located 11 minutes by car from the port of Zadar.
Day 1: Departure from Zadar
After you have completed your check-in and the procedures for your yacht charter in Croatia, we recommend that you take a guided tour of the city.
Experience an experience of immersion in the city walls, visiting its religious monuments, its forum, its decumanos and let yourself be mesmerized by the symphony of the sea water organs. This city is a real open-air museum! In the evening, treat your appetite to dinner at Pet Bunara.
Day 2: Zadar → Kornati National Park – Sali
34.8 nautical miles, 7 hours of sailing
Set sail to admire the rocks and the crystal-clear sea! We suggest you start this cruise in the Zadar archipelago towards the Kornati National Park. This archipelago consists of 150 islands, 80 of which are protected. The marine wildlife is not to be missed: between the turtles and the 150 different species of fish, you won’t be disappointed by a swimming break between two sailings.
Head to the port of Sali to spend the night. Don’t forget to book, as the port only has 30 moorings.
Day 3: Sali → Mali Lošinj
53.7 nautical miles, 7.5 hours of sailing
In the morning, sail to Lošinj Island, known as the “Island of Vitality” because of its wide range of aromatic plants. Enjoy the healthy air and mild climate while sailing along the coast.
A few unexpected visitors will join you on your journey as this island is the paradise of 200 dolphins. How about taking a break and going to observe them underwater?
Spend your evening in a wonderful atmosphere at the anchorage of Mali Lošinj.
Day 4: Mali Lošinj → Cres
34.9 nautical miles, 7 hours of sailing
In the early morning, wake up to set sail to explore the neighbouring island of Cres. It is connected to Lošinj by a swing bridge at Osor. Along the way you will pass many olive trees and see many sheep on the coast. It is no secret that Cres lamb is THE speciality of the island.
Take a short swimming break before returning to the port of Cres, there is plenty to see on the way in terms of the underwater environment. Once you arrive at the harbour, stretch your legs and walk along the sea to look at the colourful coast. It is also a place where there are a lot of shops of all kinds. We advise you to dine downtown at Bistro Melin.
Day 5: Cres → Krk
35.3 nautical miles, 7 hours of sailing
Head for the second largest island of the archipelago: Krk. In the morning do not hesitate to stop in any of the bays you come across, as they are real jewels in turquoise colours.
Then head towards the town of Krk, a town full of medieval monuments. Leave your boat at the port for an unforgettable tour of the town: the city walls, the town hall, the bell tower of the Church of Our Lady of Health, the church of Saint Joseph and Saint Donnat.
Finish your trip on one of the pebble beaches for a well-deserved aperitif!
Day 6: Krk → Rab → Novalja
31 nautical miles, 6 hours of sailing
Anchor for Rab, another Roman city, declared a muncipality by Emperor Augustus himself. Once anchored, wander around the city and take a short morning tour of the city centre’s bell towers. After lunch on a boat at Šanpjer, sail back to Novalja, a modest fishing village that has become a popular seaside resort.
On this island they dance and party! You will be as close as possible to the Croatian madness. What better way to end this sixth day than to dance until the end of the night?
Day 7: Return back to Zadar
53.7 nautical miles, 7.5 hours of sailing
It’s time to sail one last time back to Zadar to complete the check out of your sailboat. Take advantage of this last sailing in the Dalmatian region to observe its idyllic landscapes.
