Family Friendly Zadar Sailing Itinerary
Renting sailboat in Zadar will allow you to sail around less-known cruising destinations of Croatia. Densely scattered islands of northern Dalmatia are a ideal destination for a family sailing trip and groups that prefer short and easy island hopping and fewer crowds.
Zadar charter itinerary is recommended for everyone in search of genuine maritime feel, scenic landscapes and tranquil lonely bays. Smaller distances to hop from one small island to another providing more stops for swimming and snorkeling, will certainly make your kids happy and allow their parents to relax in a peaceful Dalmatian atmosphere.
When you charter yacht in Zadar get ready to truly unwind in tranquility of hidden coves and feel the original pulse of tiny island villages. With secluded fisherman's houses in almost every bay Kornati islands a true gourmet paradise inviting you to drop anchor and surrender yourself to finest food exploration.
The fusion of ancient villages, lonely coves surrounded with crystal-clear seas and untouched nature provide endless opportunities for a unforgettable getaway. Kornati national park and Krka waterfalls are only a few miles away from largest nautical destinations Sukošan and Biograd from where most Croatia yacht charters begin their sailing week.
Driving distance from Zadar airport to outgoing marinas
- ZADAR Airport - Zadar City Marina (20 minutes)
- ZADAR Aiport - Biograd, Kornati Marina (25 minutes)
- ZADAR Airport - Sukošan D-Marin (15 minutes)
Whatever activities you plan here during your yacht charter vacation, try to do it at a slow pace and perhaps consider in taking a 14-day Zadar sailing itinerary.
Zadar Sailing Itinerary
DAY 1
Saturday (Kaprije)
If you arrive at the marina earlier use the time while to shop for supplies while your sailboat is getting prepared. There are numerous supermarkets nearby. Skipper will be waiting on the sailing yacht and help you accommodate onboard. Short afternoon sailing is a great introduction to your yacht charter week, leaving just enough time to get you acquainted with the living on-board dymamics. Island Kaprije is today's destination. If you are looking for a typical Dalmatian setting you found it. True heaven for people searching for a genuine and quiet maritime atmosphere, Kaprije was always known of welcoming sailors. Tavern "Konoba kod Kate" with only few operating tables is the place with most domestic ambiance. Let yourself be surprised with ever shifting menu based on catch of the day and innovative home-made delicacies prepared by owner's inspiration.
Day 2
Sunday (Skradin/Krka - Overnight)
Panoramic cruise through narrow channel of St. Ante will lead us to the renown UNESCO World heritage site, Šibenik. Which is a great spot for a coffee break and short walk. Leaving open sea behind, we head upriver through the spectacular Krka river canyon, largest mussel growing natural habitat in Croatia. Sneaking the narrow canyons of river offers amazing scenery and wonderful coloration
Secluded Skradin village, where river plunges into the sea is an ideal spot to moor for the night. This "Dalmatian town on a lake" is surrounded by lush-green hills boasting with diverse flora and fauna. To reach the heart of this 14.000-acre park, you will need to take a shuttle boat next morning and explore the waterfalls. Tonight simply enjoy your evening and blend into the pulse of charming Skradin village. Top local restaurants await here inviting you for finest food exploration.
Day 3
Monday (Primošten - Overnight)
A refreshment stop for lunch on the "island of chorals" Zlarin to dive into the crystal-clear sea will be welcoming after a 2-hour down-river cruise. Later we anchor our boat in charismatic Primošten. Reflecting a original pulse of Dalmatia, this seaside village is one of the most beloved sailing holiday locations in Croatia . The old town center of was merged with the mainland 150 years for farming and cultivating purposes.
Nowadays this buzzing Adriatic pearl is crisscrossed with cobbled streets and impressive natural walls surrounding the citadel. Stone houses nowadays modified into excellent restaurants, stylish cocktail bars, and fisherman's taverns reflect a unique Dalmatian charm. If you are into some nightlife exploration, this is the spot. Or you can relax in a glass of local "Babič" wine and enjoy the sun falling behind Kornati islands.
Day 4
Tuesday (Kornati National Park - Overnight)
Take the opportunity of this town markets and supply your yacht for the next 2 days. For today we set sail towards Kornati national park, one of the Croatia's natural wonders. No shops or cars can be found within this magnificent island chain of over 140 unique yellow-coned islands, islets and rocks. There is no better location to swim in crystal-clear waters and explore this untouched underwater habitat. The continental part includes only ¼ of the surface of the park, while the rest belongs to the rich marine eco-system and is protected by the state authority since 1980. On the way we stop in one of the lovely coves at the island Žirje for lunch and swimming. We overnight surrounded by amazing lunar ambiance in front a fisherman's house and enjoy in a peaceful maritime atmosphere of this remarkable site.
Day 5
Wednesday (Telaščica wildlife park or Sali villge – Overnight)
Unwind and spend a day inside Kornati exploring its lonely bays and coves. Lojena bay is considered to have one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. Here you can enjoy snorkelling in emerald sea and exploring the intact underwater habitat. Before entering the park sail to the towering cliffs plunging dramatically into the sea on western side of Dugi Otok. You can moor taking one of the plenty buoys planted throughout deep-carved "Telačšica bay". Here you can enjoy a leisurely meal of grilled fish, local wines, and spectacular views from Gorgonia restaurant. Best in the area. If you are up to more lively atmosphere, village Sali is only a couple of miles up the coast where you can dock your boat in the town harbour. Well-known of festivals that take place every August and marine atmosphere, this village beats its own pace. It is almost traditional to have a drink in "Maritimo" bar remembering all the wonderful days at sea.
Day 6, Thursday (Murter - Overnight)
Thursday (Murter - Overnight)
After 2 days of seclusion, touching the gound and wadering around is more then welcomming. Murter island is ideal location to spend an evening strolling the buzzing streets and exploring finest bars and restaurants. Betina marina on 15-minute walk from Murter downtown is a great location to moor your yacht. Best-known of traditional shipbuiding Betina is a lovely spot to wander around and check exhibited typical wooden boats called "gajeta".
Dine in a Restaurant called Fine Food in the heart of Murter. This popular spot serves traditional Dalmatian cuisine with a modern twist. The menu offers tastes of the region’s culinary diversity from oysters, home-made pasta and variety of seafood delicacies. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine and enjoy the lively atmosphere that fills the restaurant. There is a rumor that best Gin bars are located in Murter.
Day 7, Friday (Zadar - Overnight)
Friday (Zadar - Overnight)
On our last day we still have some time to walk through the streets of Murter and have a cup coffee and a croissant in one of the bars of the town's square. Refreshment and a midday snack in a isolated cove of Vrgada island and one last swim before docking in our home marina is best way to spend the last day at sea. If you didn't get the chance to visit Zadar at your arrival, then an evening stroll along this Romanesque city is an excellent chance to buy some souvenirs or listen to the natural »sea pipe organ« melodies.
The sea motion is literally making music while hitting the concrete promenade. Zadar also a great opportunity to explore finest seafood restaurants in the area and a perfect way to toast to the end of your Adriatic adventure before disembarking.
Day 8
Saturday - Last day
Sadly, we have to say goodbye and hope to see you next year for another amazing adventure from another yacht charter destination of Croatia.
Skippered Sailing Holidays In Zadar
You will receive the very best of a Croatia yacht charter experience by booking a local skipper. Internal knowledge from our skippers is priceless. Not only skipper is here for you to safely navigate your yacht, but also advice you where to moor and find amazing restaurants where you can taste fresh and original island delicacies. Since Croatian coast is their home, they will be happy to reveal hidden spots of this area and genuine locations.
Sail Croatia as a local
Skippered yacht charter is without a doubt the ultimate vacation experience in Croatia allowing you to explore islands as a local. Mostly because the itinerary on private yacht charters is flexible and can be arranged with your skipper before and during your sailing trip in Croatia.
Your skipper will get a feel for the advenure that you're after and adjust the route according to your wishes. He will make sure that everybody feels safe, relaxed and try to make your holiday moments stress-free and fun.
FAQs
Chartering a small 3-cabin sailing boat in Croatia will cost you between 2.500 and 3.500 euros in the high summer season and about 2.000€ per week in September or June.
Island Kaprije is a secluded sailor's paradise and a must see location of our recommended Zadar sailing itinerary.
Day 1: Sail from Zadar port to island Ugljan
Day 2: Ugljan to Silba isle
Day 3: Silba to island of Dugi otok Veli rat lighthouse & Saharun beach
Day 4: Saharun beaches to Kornati national park
Day 5: Kornati to Kaprije island
Day 6: Kaprije to Vrgada island or Murter
Day 7: Murter to Zadar (explore the old town last night)
When chartering a sailboat in Zadar, these islands are best kept secrets recommended by local skippers
- Emerald coves on island Silba
- The island of flowers and authentic local cuisine Ilovik
- Explore the sandy beaches of island Olib
- Unwind in natural bays of northern part of Dugi Otok
7-day Zadar sailing itinerary is recommended for anyone who enjoys unspoiled nature, less-crowded sailing locaitons, cherishes authentic marine atmosphere and local food.
Densely scattered islands of Zadar region ensure scenic sailing grounds while small distances between numerous islands provide easy island hopping which is ideal for a family sailing vacation.
With hundreds of islands, idyllic sailing locations safe sailing grounds, dry weather and low winds Croatian coast is among best sailing destinations in the world.
Sailing vacation in Croatia will cost you anywhere between 4.500 and 7.000 euros per week in main charter season. Food for crew and passengers is not included in the price.
What is included in that price?
- sailing boat rental suitable for 5-6 persons + skipper
- end cleaning
- dinghy with outboard engine
- Wi-Fi connection aboard
- skipper service
- tourist tax
- fuel approximate cost
- port and marina fees - estimated
To truly reveal the secrets of the Croatian coast 14-day Zadar sailing itinerary is the ultimate charter route allowing your to experience the islands at a relaxing pace.
That basically depends on your traveling style and the experience you are into, but for a beginner the warm summer months June July and August are considered best for a relaxing cruising holiday in Croatia.
- Kornati national park - with astonishing natural scenery and tranquil atmosphere these islands are a unique sailing getaway
- Kaprije - small island community near Sibenik is a typical fishing village with warm locals and best locally-run Dalmatian cuisine
- Silba - romantic island surrounded with turquoise waters is the perfect place to spend a romantic night on anchor
- Olib - surrounded with crystalline emerald sea, pebbled exotic beaches this isle is a snorkeling and diving paradise
- Veli Rat & Saharun Beach - visit the highest lighthouse in Croatia and one of the most beautiful beaches in the word on Dugi Otok island
- Sail to Kornati islands
- visit astonishing Kaprije Island
- relax on the "island of love" Silba
- discover sky-high cliffs of Telaščica wildlife park
- unwind in natural environment of Krka waterfalls
- snorkelling in turquoise waters of Saharun bay
- taste traditional "PEKA" dish - octopus, fish or meat under charcoal
Skipper's fee on private yacht charters mostly depends on the size of a yacht and varies between 180 and 250€ per day.
Local ports fees start at 60€ per night for 40 foot sailing yacht and can go up to 120€ in premium ACI marinas. For catamarans the cost goes up for 50%. The final price also depends on the boat length and the level of marina service and usually includes fresh-water refill, shore power, toilet and use of bathroom facilities. Buoy charge ranges from 30 to 50€. Anchoring is free of charge. A mixture of above options gives the best balance through the week for most groups.