Croatia Trips – Kornati
Sailing in Croatia: Discover Kornati and the Hidden Treasures of the Dalmatian Coast
Do you dream of an unforgettable cruise through Croatia filled with adventures, breathtaking views, and charming islands? The route towards Kornati National Park is the perfect blend of nature, history, and local life. Setting sail from the marina in Zadar, Sukosan, Biograd, or Pirovac.
An exciting journey awaits you through an archipelago that captivates visitors with its diversity and wild, natural beauty.
Tribunj: The Beginning of the Journey
At the beginning of your journey, it is worth stopping in the picturesque fishing village of Tribunj, where narrow cobbled streets and traditional stone houses capture the authentic atmosphere of the Dalmatian coast. A stroll along the harbour, the sight of traditional fishing boats and the aroma of freshly baked bread create the perfect setting for the start of your sailing adventure in Croatia.
Be sure to visit the viewpoint by the Church of St Nicholas, which offers a beautiful view of the harbour and the surrounding islands. It is the perfect spot for taking photos and enjoying your first impressions of the Dalmatian coast.
Dugi Otok and Golubinka
For nature lovers, a visit to Golubinka Cave on the island of Dugi Otok is an absolute must. Although the cave is not suitable for diving, it impresses visitors with its natural beauty and remarkable rock formations. It is located in a secluded spot accessible only from the sea, with no possibility of anchoring or mooring a yacht, so it is best visited when the sea is calm.
The Sunken Wreck
Don’t miss the historic wreck of the Michele, lying near the Veli Rat Lighthouse. Resting at a depth of 3–5 metres, the wreck is accessible to beginner divers and snorkelling enthusiasts. Exploring its remains offers a unique opportunity to come face to face with history.
Yugoslav Boat Shelter
For those seeking unique attractions, the route includes an old Yugoslav Underground Boat Shelter near the island of Dugi Otok. This former submarine shelter is one of the most intriguing attractions around Dugi Otok and the Kornati archipelago. The complex was built during the Yugoslav era as a secret military base designed to protect naval vessels from attacks and conceal them in secure underground docks.
Fort Grpašćak
Fort Grpašćak is an old Austro-Hungarian observation fortress dating back to the late 19th century, strategically located at the top of the cliffs. Today, it serves as the park’s information centre, but its main attraction is the spectacular viewpoint.
From an elevation of 161 metres above sea level, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Telašćica cliffs and the open Adriatic Sea, making it an ideal spot for watching the sunset and taking photos.
It is an absolute must-see for anyone seeking a unique combination of nature and history in Croatia.
Telašćica Nature Park
Telašćica is a true paradise for sailors and nature lovers. Its famous cliffs, the saltwater Lake Mir and picturesque bays make every moment spent here unforgettable.
The next stop is the island of Žut, home to the Topview (Tvrdomešnjak) viewpoint. It is one of the best places on the island to admire the scenery and watch a spectacular sunset over the Kornati archipelago. The turquoise sea, rocky islets and tranquillity of the Dalmatian coast create an unforgettable setting, perfect for relaxing and taking beautiful photos.
Molat
Molat is a little-known, charming island in the Zadar archipelago, perfect for those seeking peace and an escape from the crowds.
The island boasts unspoilt nature, pine forests and numerous secluded coves with crystal-clear waters. It is a paradise for those who enjoy relaxing on the beach, swimming and water sports such as kayaking.
On Molat, there are only three small, authentic villages: Molat (the island’s main settlement), Brgulje and Zapuntel. Life moves at a relaxed pace here, and the atmosphere is peaceful and welcoming.
A Night Under the Stars
Spending the night on board a yacht is a magical experience that surpasses any view a hotel could offer.
When the engine falls silent in a secluded bay, complete tranquillity descends, broken only by the gentle sound of the waves. Far from the city lights, the sky above the Adriatic transforms into your own private planetarium. Lying on deck, you can admire the spectacular Milky Way and countless shooting stars.
It is a truly unique experience. A morning coffee enjoyed at sunrise, followed by a refreshing swim straight from the yacht, completes this idyllic scene.
Cuisine
Relaxation and local life are also an essential part of the journey. The island of Vrgada delights visitors with its sandy beaches, while Hakuna Matata is the perfect place to enjoy a drink at sunset. Food lovers should visit Uvala Lanđin and sample the local cuisine at Konoba Gajeta, where fresh fish, seafood and traditional Dalmatian dishes delight with every bite.
It is also worth exploring other marinas in Croatia, such as Marina Preko on the island of Ugljan, ACI Marina Šimuni on Pag, and Marina Šangulin in Biograd. These marinas offer convenient mooring, easy access to local attractions and excellent facilities for sailors.
Zadar
Zadar is a vibrant Croatian city where ancient history meets modern attractions. Located on the Dalmatian coast, it is the perfect destination for a city break.
The heart of the city is the Old Town, situated on a peninsula and surrounded by UNESCO-listed walls. Here, you can admire Roman ruins and medieval churches, such as the famous Church of St Donatus, and enjoy a coffee in one of the charming cafés.
The city’s main attractions are its unique seaside installations:
- Sea Organ: The waves create soothing music here.
- Greeting to the Sun: A multimedia light show after dark, set against what Alfred Hitchcock described as “the most beautiful sunset in the world”.
This is a city you simply must visit!
Biograd na Moru
Biograd na Moru is a charming historic town in Northern Dalmatia, ideally situated between Zadar and Šibenik. It is a popular family-friendly resort with a rich heritage. Its name means “White Town by the Sea”, and it was once the coronation site of Croatian kings.
The heart of Biograd is its large, lively marina, which attracts sailors from all over Europe. The town also boasts beautiful, well-maintained beaches, such as Dražica Beach, which has been awarded the Blue Flag and is perfect for relaxing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic.
The town boasts a charming Old Town with plenty of cafés and restaurants. It is also an excellent base for exploring nearby national parks, including Kornati and Krka, as well as Lake Vrana Nature Park.
Biograd is the perfect destination for those seeking sunshine, the sea, sailing and an authentic Croatian atmosphere.
Murter
Murter is a charming island in Northern Dalmatia, combining an authentic Croatian atmosphere with easy access to the mainland. It is connected by a drawbridge in the town of Tisno. Murter is widely regarded as the “gateway” to the spectacular Kornati National Park.
The island is famous for its diverse and beautiful beaches. The best-known is the sandy Slanica Beach, which is ideal for families with children, but there are also charming pebble coves, such as Čigrađa.
There are four charming towns on Murter: Murter (the largest), Tisno, Jezera and Betina. Each has its own marina and offers excellent facilities for sailors and divers setting off to explore the surrounding islands.
Summary
A sailing route through Croatia towards the Kornati Islands offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, fascinating history and authentic local life. From mysterious shipwrecks and caves to panoramic viewpoints, spectacular sunsets, atmospheric bars and traditional tavernas, every corner of this journey provides an unforgettable experience. Whether you are an experienced sailor or just beginning your adventure at sea, this sailing trip in Croatia will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
