Yacht Itinerary – Zadar to Zadar

Your charter holiday in Croatia can have a versatile yacht itinerary. But, when departing from Zadar, the closest islands and locations might also offer the best experiences.

Here is a recommended 7-day itinerary, featuring a circular Zadar to Zadar route.

Zadar

Zadar, situated on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, is a captivating blend of ancient history and modern attractions. Yacht guests are drawn to Zadar for its unique combination of Roman and Venetian ruins, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque waterfront, coupled with state of the art yacht marinas and amenities.

The city’s ancient structures, such as the Roman Forum and the Church of St. Donatus, stand alongside modern installations like the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation, creating a fascinating juxtaposition that appeals to history buffs and art lovers alike.

The yacht also provides an ideal platform for sunset viewing, as Zadar is renowned for its stunning sunsets, famously described by Alfred Hitchcock as the most beautiful in the world.

On land, Zadar offers several attractions worth visiting. The Roman Forum is a must-see, providing a glimpse into the city’s ancient past.

The Church of St. Donatus, a well-preserved pre-Romanesque church from the 9th century, is another highlight. For a taste of contemporary Zadar, the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation, both designed by architect Nikola Bašić, offer unique experiences that combine art and nature.

The Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Ancient Glass provide deeper insights into the region’s history. Lastly, the bustling Kalelarga street is perfect for shopping and dining, allowing guests to sample local cuisine and purchase souvenirs.

Guests typically arrive in Zadar via Zadar Airport, which is well-connected with major European cities. From the airport, it’s a short drive to the marina where the yacht is moored.

Preparing for departure from Zadar towards the locations on your itinerary, the scenic Adriatic coastline offers breathtaking views. The journey takes you past numerous small islands and crystal-clear waters, with opportunities to spot dolphins or engage in some fishing.

Silba and Olib

Silba and Olib, two islands in the northern Dalmatian archipelago, are idyllic destinations known for their unspoiled beauty and tranquil ambiance. Silba is often referred to as the “island of love” and is a car-free paradise, making it perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation.

Olib is equally charming, with its lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters, offering a sense of seclusion and natural beauty.
From Zadar, Silba and Olib are easily accessible by yacht, with a journey time of approximately 2-3 hours.

The journey from Zadar to Silba and Olib is dotted with small islets and clear, turquoise waters. Along the way, guests can enjoy the sight of the sparsely populated islands, which offer a glimpse of traditional Dalmatian life.

On Silba, visitors can explore the Toreta, a unique tower with a spiral staircase, offering panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea.

The island’s narrow paths and stone houses add to its charm. On Olib, the main village is quaint, with a beautiful church and traditional stone houses. The island is known for its olive groves, and a visit to a local farm can provide

The lack of cars on Silba means the island is exceptionally quiet, with only the sound of the sea and nature to accompany you. On Olib, the calm bays provide excellent conditions for water sports or simply lounging on the deck with a good book.

Dugi Otok – Sakarun

Dugi Otok, particularly the Sakarun beach, is one of Croatia’s hidden gems. Known for its stunning white sandy beach and clear shallow waters, Sakarun offers a Caribbean-like experience in the Adriatic. The island itself is a blend of rugged cliffs and serene coves, providing diverse landscapes to explore.

From Silba and Olib, it’s a short sail to Dugi Otok. The journey takes about 2 hours, making it a convenient next stop on the itinerary. The approach to Sakarun is particularly scenic, with the white sands and turquoise waters becoming visible from a distance
Sailing towards Dugi Otok, guests will pass by Veli Rat lighthouse and the Lady Michelle sunken ship

Veli Rat lighthouse, one of the tallest in the Adriatic, offers spectacular views and is another notable attraction on the island.
Anchoring at Sakarun beach allows guests to enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches in the Adriatic.

The yacht’s tender can be used to explore nearby coves and inlets, or guests can simply relax on board and enjoy the serene environment.

PP Telašćica

The Telašćica Nature Park, located on the south side of Dugi Otok island, is a haven of natural beauty and biodiversity. The park encompasses a large bay, rugged cliffs, and the saltwater Lake Mir, creating a diverse landscape that is both serene and dramatic. Yacht guests are drawn to Telašćica for its pristine environment, excellent hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

From Sakarun, it’s a short sail south along the coast of Dugi Otok to reach Telašćica. The journey takes about 1-2 hours, depending on weather conditions, and offers beautiful coastal views along the way.

Anchoring in the sheltered bay of Telašćica provides a perfect base for exploring the park. Guests can take the tender to the shore for hiking and exploring the cliffs, or enjoy water activities such as kayaking and snorkeling in the clear waters. The tranquil setting is ideal for relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Within the Telašćica Nature Park, the cliffs of Grpašćak rise up to 161 meters above the sea, offering breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities. Lake Mir, a unique saltwater lake, is another highlight and is perfect for a refreshing swim.

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and numerous bird species. Hiking trails throughout the park allow visitors to explore its diverse landscapes, from dense pine forests to rocky coastlines.

NP Kornati

The Kornati National Park is a spectacular archipelago consisting of 89 islands, islets, and reefs. This area is known for its stark, barren beauty and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for sailing and diving. The Kornati Islands offer a sense of remote tranquility and unspoiled nature that is hard to find elsewhere.

From Telašćica, it’s a short sail to the Kornati National Park. The journey takes about 2 hours, with the approach to the islands offering stunning views of the rugged terrain and clear waters.

The passage from Telašćica to Kornati takes you through some of the most beautiful waters in the Adriatic. The clear blue sea is perfect for spotting dolphins, and the islands themselves, with their stark white rocks and sparse vegetation, create a dramatic and otherworldly landscape.

Guests can anchor in secluded bays, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
The Kornati Islands are largely uninhabited, but there are a few small villages and traditional stone houses that can be explored. The island of Kornat has a small church, the Church of Our Lady of Tarac, which dates back to the 16th century.

There are also a few rustic restaurants scattered throughout the islands, where guests can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Dalmatian cuisine. Hiking on the islands offers stunning views and the chance to see a variety of plant and animal life unique to the region.

Kaprije, Murter and Lake Vrana Nature Park

Kaprije and Murter are charming islands known for their traditional Dalmatian culture and beautiful natural surroundings. Lake Vrana Nature Park, located on the mainland near Murter, is a large freshwater lake with rich biodiversity, offering a contrast to the coastal and marine environments experienced so far.

From Kornati, it’s a short sail to Kaprije and then to Murter. The journey takes about 2-3 hours, offering scenic views of the Adriatic along the way. Lake Vrana Nature Park is accessible from Murter by a short drive or bike ride.

The route from Kornati to Kaprije and Murter is dotted with small islets and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a leisurely sail. The landscape changes from the stark beauty of Kornati to the greener, more fertile islands of Kaprije and Murter.

Anchoring off Kaprije and Murter provides opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the islands by tender. The waters around these islands are calm and clear, ideal for water sports. The tranquil bays and coves offer perfect spots for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty.

On Kaprije, visitors can explore the island’s traditional stone houses and enjoy local seafood at one of the small restaurants. Murter, the largest island in the Šibenik archipelago, offers a bit more in terms of amenities, with several restaurants, shops, and historical sites, such as the old churches and the remains of Roman villas.

Lake Vrana Nature Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with numerous species of birds inhabiting the lake area. The park also offers hiking and biking trails, and the view from the hill above the lake provides a stunning panorama of the surrounding landscape.

Ugljan and Pašman

Ugljan and Pašman are two picturesque islands located near Zadar. Known for their lush landscapes, olive groves, and charming villages, these islands offer a perfect blend of nature and culture. The clear waters and beautiful beaches make them ideal destinations for a relaxing end to the yacht itinerary.

From Murter, it’s a short sail to Ugljan and Pašman. The journey takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the route and weather conditions.
The sail from Murter to Ugljan and Pašman offers beautiful coastal scenery, with views of the mainland and the nearby islands. The route is dotted with small islets and coves, providing opportunities for swimming stops and exploring the Adriatic’s clear waters.

Anchoring off Ugljan and Pašman allows guests to enjoy the serene environment, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The islands’ calm bays are perfect for relaxation, and the clear waters provide excellent visibility for underwater exploration.

Ugljan, known as the “green island” due to its dense vegetation, offers several attractions, including the 13th-century St. Michael’s Fortress, which provides panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. The island’s olive groves and small villages are perfect for exploring by bike or on foot.

Pašman, connected to Ugljan by a bridge, is equally charming, with its traditional stone houses, small churches, and beautiful beaches. The island’s hiking and biking trails offer stunning views and a chance to explore its natural beauty. Both islands have several local restaurants where guests can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Croatian dishes.

Yacht Itinerary: Zadar to Zadar

Returning to Zadar marks the end of the yacht journey, but the city offers plenty of attractions to make the final day memorable. The combination of historical sites, modern amenities, and vibrant culture ensures that guests have a fulfilling end to their trip.

As the yacht returns to Zadar, guests can enjoy the final views of the Adriatic coastline. The approach to Zadar offers a different perspective of the city, with its ancient walls and modern waterfront creating a striking contrast.

The return journey from Ugljan and Pašman to Zadar takes about 1-2 hours, providing ample time for a leisurely sail and final swim stops.

Back in Zadar, guests can revisit favorite spots or explore any missed attractions. The city’s many museums, churches, and historical sites offer a wealth of experiences. For a final culinary treat, dining at one of Zadar’s many excellent restaurants, such as Pet Bunara or Kaštel, is a perfect way to end the trip. The city’s vibrant nightlife also provides options for those looking to celebrate the end of their journey.

This itinerary offers a diverse and enriching experience, combining the natural beauty of Croatia’s islands with its rich history and culture. Each stop provides unique attractions and activities, ensuring that yacht guests have a memorable and enjoyable trip.