Itinerary Sibenik 1
Šibenik – Zlarin Island – Žirje Island - Kornati (Opat Bay) – Žut Island - Veli Iž Island – Murter Island - Šibenik
Day 1
Sibenik - Zlarin
This 7- day Šibenik sailing itinerary departs and ends in Šibenik. To get used to your chartered yacht and explore the town, you can spend a day in its coastal sea. Otherwise, sail away to Zlarin Island in the Šibenik Archipelago, 4NM away on the Adriatic Coast. The island is considered an entryway to the Kornati Archipelago. Your sailing experience, on this route, will be distinctive as it cruises along the Sveti Ante Canal. Zlarin is near the Sveti Nikola Fortress walls at the canal's exit.
This place is notable for its natural beauty and unique tradition of harvesting coral. This nautical haven is recognized as ‘the golden island’ and sometimes as Coral Islet. Other than taking part in all the water activities, travelers can also join in the famous coral harvesting workshop. The activity allows visitors to learn about the history and coral harvesting process.
The enticing, dazzling blue sea surrounds Zlarin Island. This idyllic place has many small and large hidden coves. You will see a dense pine forest covering most parts of this land. The pristine Sipar Beach is a pebble beach, and Luka is a modest shaded bay. In contrast, Prvija is a sandy beach with shallow waters, ideal for families with young children. Visitors can also explore St. Elijah Hill, the highest point here.
If you are in Zlarin the last week of July, catch the annual local celebration, the ‘Lubenice Festival’, and join the locals to enjoy traditional music, dance and a gastronomic feast. Drop your anchor at Port Zlarin for the night.
Day 2
Zlarin Island –Žirje Island
Have breakfast, swim, and depart for the amazing Žirje. It is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, azure sea and tranquil beaches. Sail 12 NM to reach this small yet exquisite destination southwest of the Šibenik Archipelago. Žirje is an authentic natural haven presenting incomparable landscape in a secluded setting. Except from the south, this region is well protected from the Bora wind.
Uvala Stupica Vela is a unique anchorage on the southern tip of Otok Žirje. However, for a reasonable price, several moorings, buoys, and anchorages are available all over the island. You can comfortably anchor in the shallow sandbanks of the bay. The humble destination is perfect for relaxing and unwinding. The slow island life allows your body and mind to reset. It is an excellent escape from the rush of everyday life.
Take a walk to the ancient castle ruins, if you want to stretch your legs. You will find diners serving freshly caught fish at the quayside and some facilities to replenish your provision. For new flavors and culinary experiences, you should visit Konoba Stupica, Konoba Ribarnica and Konoba Vela Luka. The restaurants serve traditional Croatian cuisine prepared with locally caught seafood.
Day 3
Zirje - Kornati Island
The following day at 8am, you might spot the bakery boat while mooring in Uvala Stupica Vela before sailing out from the anchorage. Sail 13 NM from Žirje towards Opat Bay which is located at the southern tip of Kornati. The Archipelago comprises 89 islands, islets, and reefs in the Adriatic Sea. It covers about two-thirds of the total area of the Kornati region. It belongs to Zadar and is famous for its natural beauty, sheer waters and peaceful beaches. The Kornati National Park was established in 1980.
Opat Bay is one of the most popular bays in this archipelago. It is located on the island’s eastern side, further away from the national park. It is also known for its magnificent setting. The bay has a docking area for about 20 boats. The only disadvantage to this bay is its orientation. In other words, it partially opens to the south-southeastern open seas and southern winds. Konoba Opat is, probably, the only restaurant in the bay. It might be expensive but reviews suggest that the taste is worth the price.
The underwater world around Opat Bay is exceptional. Snorkel or dive to enjoy the colorful coral reefs and marine ecosystem. Note that you are not allowed to dive in the national park areas, as they are protected waters. You can obtain prior approvals from the authorities to arrange a diving expedition. Fishing in the waters of Kornati National Park is interesting mainly because 160 species of fish are found. However, secure recreational fishing permits to engage in angling activity. ACI Marina Piškera is a contemporary harbor with all the necessary amenities. If you prefer convenience, moor up in this exclusive dock area for the night. The quay is located on the park’s western side, near Piškera Island. There are several restaurants around Kornati Island however, they are not necessarily nearby. Konoba Kornat, Konoba Kornati and Pizzeria Kornat are eateries you can visit to dine. Indulge in local specialties like black risotto and grilled octopus to tempt your palate.
Day 4
Kornati (Opat Bay) - Zut Island
Žut Island is another Kornati gem located in the Adriatic Sea, Central Dalmatia, 19 NM away from Opat Bay. It is also part of the Kornati National Park in the county of Šibenik-Knin. Specifically, it is in the southeastern part of the Kornati Archipelago, between the Kornat and Dugi Otok. Žut is known for its natural beauty and shiny translucent waters, making it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling and diving.
Only a few permanent residents live here however, several small restaurants and cafés serve traditional Croatian cuisine. There are also a few small shops that sell souvenirs and local crafts. Strunac, Pinizel Donji and Saruscica are some exquisite bays with various spectrums of sapphire. Sita, Vela Ploča and Školjić are the few recommended local beach spots for swimming and sunbathing.
The island is relatively small, and there is minimal infrastructure. Nevertheless, it is known for its peace and tranquility, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the tumult of everyday life. ACI Marina Žut is a modern docking facility on this island, if you like convenience. There is Kanoba Sandara at this harbor, famous for its seafood delicacies. Konoba Bain is a family-owned food joint not too far from this port. Trabakul Kornati Restaurant is another possible option located at Luka Žut Bay.
Day 5
Zut Island - Veli Iz
Veli Iž is an island located in the northern part of Croatia, in the region of Zadar. The coast of Iž is well-known for its agriculture, fishing and pottery-making traditions. Veli Iž is a sailing haven due to its proximity to the Kornati and the abundance of nearby islands. It has two stores, a few bars and taverns, as well as, a small harbor called Marina Veli Iž (also known as Marina Benjamin) with 50 berths.
Veli Iž has a good range of restaurants that serve traditional Croatian cuisine and seafood, such as Konoba Bepo, Konoba Toni, Konoba Miho, Konoba Veli Iž and Konoba Funtana. You can also find small markets and shops that sell local products such as olive oil, cheese and wine.
Although the area is very small and has fewer inhabitants, it hasn’t failed to draw many tourists, especially in the summer. Beautiful walking trails and romantic beaches embellish the coast. One of the main attractions of Veli Iž is its beaches. The paths that wind throughout the area are excellent for cycling and hiking. One of the main attractions of Veli Iž is its beaches. Čista Velika, Punta, and Vela Plaža are crystal-clear beaches popular among visitors.
Day 6
Veli Iz – Murter
Day 6 is a cruise back to Šibenik. Murter is another small island in Šibenik-Knin county. Sail out from Veli Iž 25 NM to reach this modest atoll. Hence, haltinghere, a day, allows you to break your long sail. Murter is a fabulous spot that enjoys fluid nautical traffic. Summer is a popular season here. Many tourists come here to enjoy the sun, sea and sand.
Other than nautical activities, such as snorkeling, diving and swimming, visitors can also indulge in sports and recreational activities such as windsurfing, as well as kayaking. Murter has many extraordinary beaches. Slanica Beach is a long sandy beach located in the southern part of the island. Pristanište Beach is at the Tisno Village, and if you love the quiet secluded bay, check out Čigrađa Beach. Kosirina Beach is a pebble beach snuggled in the northeastern part.
Murter has a rich cultural and historical heritage with many landmarks and monuments. Among the famous attractions are the Church of Our Lady of Health, St. Roch Chapel and Tisno Marina. You can even drop your anchor at Tisno Marina for the night. The cove has excellent restaurants and cafés that serve delicious local cuisine and fine wines. To feast on local flavors, try Konoba Ribar and Konoba Nono, situated in a charming village called Betin. And indulge at the Konoba Jure, famous for grilled fish.
Day 7
Murter - Sibenik
It is finally Day 7. The trip back to Šibenik is 19NM away. Stay on the last day in the city to visit some important landmarks. Šibenik is a historical city on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. The city is also the main gateway to the Krka National Park, where there are many waterfalls and lakes, including the famous Skradinski Buk Waterfall.
Krka National Park (Nacionalni Park Krka) was established in 1985. It protects the ecologically significant area around the middle and lower sections of the Krka River. As the river flows downward, it encounters a series of lakes, rapids, as well as, the beautiful Roski Slap and Skradinski Buk waterfalls. You might need extra days to explore the exotic park.
There are numerous well-preserved medieval buildings, such as churches and palaces. Some of the must-see places in this city are the Cathedral of St. James, which is a World Heritage Site (UNESCO) and an essential landmark. A 16th-century Gothic-Renaissance style cathedral, is known for its stonework and sculptures. St. Michael's Fortress and St. John's Fortress overlook the hill. The 16th-century City Hall is known for its alluring stonework and sculptures. Bring back home memories, and we can assure you that the beauty of the Šibenik Archipelago will urge you to come for another sailing expedition.