Day 0: Sukošan, Croatia – Setting Sail
Our adventure began at Marina Dalmacija in Sukošan, one of the largest marinas in Croatia. With its modern facilities, and proximity to Zadar, Sukosan is the perfect starting point for any sailing journey.
While waiting for our boat to be ready, we stocked up on supplies and finalised our route for the next day. Sukošan’s marina offers everything from supermarkets to sailing shops, making it easy to get everything you need.
As the boat was only ready by late afternoon, we decided to spend our first night in Sukošan marina, eager to set sail early the next morning.
Tip: Book your boat at least 3 months in advance to get the best deal.
Day 1, Part 1: Vrgada Island, Croatia
Early in the morning, we set sail for Vrgada, a small island with a peaceful atmosphere. Vrgada is less developed than other destinations, offering a more authentic experience. The island’s only village has a few restaurants and bars, perfect for a quiet evening.
One cool thing about Vrgada is that there are no cars on the island. It’s just pure nature surrounded by pine forests that are typical of every Croatian island. A must-try while visiting Vrgada is the delicious grilled calamari, which is a local specialty and adds to the authentic culinary experience.
After a half day spent swimming and exploring Vrgada, we decided to move on because just a few miles away there was something special…
Tip: Bring enough cash with you to Vrgada, as there are no ATMs on the island, and some places may not accept cards.
Day 1, Part 2: Blue Lagoon in Otok Murvenjak, Croatia
Blue Lagoon, a stunning natural bay with turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The clear water makes it easy to spot marine life, so if you’re into underwater photography, bring your gear because this place is Instagram gold. There’s also a small beach area too if you prefer to relax on land.
We anchored here for the night, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem. We found a good spot with mooring buoys, which cost us around 60 EUR.
Tip: It’s a popular spot, so if you want it all to yourself, get there early to secure a good anchoring spot, especially during the peak summer season.
Day 2: Murter Island, Croatia
Our next destination was Murter, which is famous for its fresh seafood, and the fish market is a must-visit. Here, you can find a fantastic selection of locally caught fish and seafood, straight from the Adriatic Sea. However, it’s not just a place to pick up the freshest seafood; it’s also a vibrant hub where you can get a real taste of local life. This place perfect for experiencing authentic Croatian island life.
One thing to keep in mind around Murter is the numerous shallow areas, which can be tricky for navigation. Especially, the shallow areas can be unexpected, and you can find yourself quickly out of the water (lol). These shallow spots are scattered around the island, so we made sure to follow the recommended routes and pay close attention to the depth sounder to avoid any mishaps by sailing really really slow close to Murter Island.
We spent the night here again at a mooring buoy, we really love to anchor away from the coast. It costed us about 70 EUR for the night.
Tip: Use the Navionix app which accurately shows weather conditions.
Day 3: Vodice Marina
Our next stop was Vodice, which offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it a popular destination for tourists and sailors alike. The marina is well-equipped, and the town has plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore. It’s a great place to mingle with other travellers and enjoy a variety of activities.
We chose a spot with easy access to the docks, where we could easily connect to water and electricity – always a plus for recharging and topping up supplies. While entering the marina, we were lucky enough (lol) to have 22 knots of wind. It was a bit challenging, but once we docked, Jack was so happy that he bought an ACI Marina hat, and he’s quite proud of it. The night spent at the ACI Marina cost around 100 EUR.
Tip: Spend the night in Vodice and enjoy its stunning night atmosphere. There is a restaurant resembling a huge yacht, and we recommend having dinner there to enjoy the view from above.
Day 4: Primošten Marina Kremik
The following day, we set sail early in the morning, bound for Primošten – a favorite among sailors for its breathtaking coastline and top-tier marina facilities. The town is famed for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife.
We spent the day exploring the nearby islands before deciding to dock at Marina Kremik d.o.o. for the night. With winds still blowing at 20 knots, we opted against mooring at a buoy. Later that evening, rain set in, but it didn’t deter our sense of adventure. We hiked for about an hour up the mountain to visit the Statue of Our Lady of Loretto, rewarded with stunning panoramic views and a hot chocolate at the top.
The stay at the marina cost approximately 90 EUR for the night.
Tip: When strong winds are present, Marina Kremik is a safer choice over mooring at a buoy due to its sheltered location.
Day 5: Kakan, Croatia
On day 5 of our Croatian sailing adventure, we sailed to Kakan, which is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.
The island is surrounded by rugged coastline and a number of secluded coves, perfect for anchoring. One of the island’s charming sights is the frequent presence of goats, often seen nimbly climbing the rocky cliffs and steep hillsides. These hardy animals, well-adapted to the island’s terrain, add a touch of wild beauty to the landscape.
For the night spent at the mooring buoy we spent about 60 EUR.
Tip: There are no facilities on Kakan, so make sure to bring enough food and water for your stay.
Day 6: Telašćica Nature Park
We were filled with excitement because this was the day we were heading to the Kornati Islands, one of Croatia’s most famous national parks, and a destination we simply couldn’t miss. As we sailed, the landscape completely changed – from islands full of pine forests and greenery to something almost lunar landscape, with rocky, barren islands. The weather was perfect for sailing, with 10 knots of wind, allowing us to fully enjoy the scenery.
Entering Telašćica marina was an experience in itself. Situated close to open waters, the area is known for its shifting currents, but the marina staff is incredibly attentive, expertly guiding boats in with ease. Once we docked, the sun was setting down, and we enjoyed the moment with fellow sailors who just arrived.
The marina itself is impressively well-equipped, offering spotless showers that feel like a luxury after a long day on the sea. A short walk from the docks, there are several restaurants serving fresh, local seafood.
The night at the marina costed us around 120 EUR.
Tip: There are many islands at the Kornati, and all of them are definitely worth visiting. Choose one according to your route, and maybe you can visit more then one during your trip.
Day 7, Part 1: Biograd na Moru, Croatia
Next, we were headed to Biograd, – a city rich in history and culture, known for its nautical heritage.
After mooring in the Biograd’s Marina, we took a stroll through the narrow stone streets of the old town, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops. As night falls, Biograd comes alive with a surprisingly energetic nightlife scene.
Fun fact is that Biograd was once the capital of the medieval Croatian Kingdom and is now a popular tourist destination. Its marina is well-equipped, making it a convenient stop for sailors. It is also known for its strong sailing culture and hosts numerous regattas and boating events. So, it’s definitely a great place to meet other sailing enthusiasts.
Spending the night at the Biograd Marina costed about 80 EUR.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid strong afternoon winds, making docking in Biograd’s marina easier.
Day 7 Part 2: Return to Sukošan
After an unforgettable 7-day journey, we returned to Sukošan, where our adventure began. Reflecting on our trip, we felt a deep sense of satisfaction, Croatia’s Adriatic coast offers endless opportunities for exploration, and we can’t wait to return.
Conclusion
Our sailing adventure in Croatia was an experience of a lifetime. From the bustling towns of Biograd and Vodice to the tranquil islands of Vrgada and Kakan, each destination offered something unique. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a beginner, Croatia’s Adriatic coast is a destination that should be on your sailing bucket list.
We hope this itinerary inspires you to set sail and explore the beauty of Croatia.
Safe travels and fair winds!
