The Croatian coast attracts a large number of visitors every year with its beauty and numerous islands and the
best way to discover the coast is by sailing. Few can brag about knowing the Croatian coast well, but many return every year and enjoy discovering the charm and beauty of the Mediterranean. Croatia is known as a destination, which offers a
very good infrastructure to nautical enthusiasts. There are
almost seventy ports on the Adriatic coast, some of which are among the best on the Mediterranean. No matter whether you are cruising the northern or southern Adriatic, you will always find a safe berth in port and the full service your boat needs. If you want to experience the authentic charm of the Mediterranean, many small towns on the coast offer a mooring for your boat along their stone promenade or anchor in one of the many hidden lagoons.
Istria is one of the most beautiful regions of Croatia, standing out for its gastronomic offer, but also for its cultural and natural sights. Its proximity to Central Europe and excellent transport connections, also make Istria an
ideal destination for year-round mooring, so Istrian ports are full of private boats. The western coast of Istria is full of small romantic towns such as Porec, Pula and Rovinj. The town of
Rovinj is characterised by its new and modern marina, which is one of the best equipped harbours in the world. The east coast of the Istrian peninsula is less inhabited, but on the other hand it hides many beautiful bays where you can drop anchor. The most popular route in Istria starts in the small town of
Novigrad, located on the west coast of the Istrian peninsula. If you head south, you will reach the coastal towns of Porec, Rovinj, Pula and Cape Kamenjak. Not far from Pula is the Brijuni National Park, which covers an area of 736 hectares with its 14 islands and is known as one of the most beautiful archipelagos in the Mediterranean, due to its untouched nature, rich archaeological history and unique flora and fauna.
Southeast of Istria lies the
Kvarner bay, with its beautiful islands. Kvarner is also a region
well connected with continental Europe, which is why there are numerous marinas. Like Istria, this region is rich in gastronomic delights, but also offers a wide range of wellness facilities. Visit the island of vitality -
Losinj, the island of Rab with numerous bays and crystal clear sea, the largest island in Croatia - the island of
Krk and the island of
Cres. Sail through the Kvarner Bay, where you are surely going to meet dolphins that inhabit this area. The most popular route on which you will discover the whole Kvarner, is via the islands of Unije, Cres, Krk, Rab, Losinj, Ilovik and Susak. Visit the island of Cres, which is filled with the scent of salvia and where you can
relax from the crowds. Nautical enthusiasts in particular love Cres, because of its many bays and beautiful beaches, such as the Lubenice beach, which is located at the foot of a 400 m high cliff. An unavoidable point of your cruise through the Kvarner is definitely Rab, a town on the island with the same name, rich in cultural sights, but also with numerous bays and sandy beaches in the surrounding area.
Dalmatia is the largest and most beautiful region in Croatia, stretching from Zadar to Dubrovnik. The long coast with its hidden bays, islands and cliffs is best experienced from the sea. The city of
Zadar and its surroundings have a
very good nautical infrastructure and due to their location they are an excellent choice for all lovers of nautical tourism. Wherever you go, you will discover untouched nature, the small islands of the Zadar archipelago, which offer a unique experience and tranquility. Visit the
Telascica Nature Park or the Kornati National Park, a group of islands with numerous hidden bays, ideal for swimming. Not far from these parks, is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world -
Saharun, on the island of Dugi otok, where you can also find one of the largest anchorages in Croatia. Continue your journey on the northern side of Dugi otok, as far as the islands of Olib, Silba and Premuda. These islands stand out for their beautiful beaches, crystal clear sea, but also for their numerous gastronomic offers.
The Sibenik region is a paradise for all water sports enthusiasts. This region, with numerous islands not far from the coast, stretches from the National Park Kornati to the coastal town of Rogoznica in the south. The most popular route goes through the Kornati archipelago to the town of Sibenik. One of the special features is the river and the
National Park Krka, and the small town of Skradin. The Krka National Park is characterised by its numerous waterfalls and travertine barriers, which create a
unique landscape. The river Krka is very warm during the summer months, so swimming in the river is an additional fun.
Central Dalmatia is characterised by its large islands, such as Brac and Hvar and the beautiful coastal towns of Trogir and Split. Visit the island of
Hvar, the sunniest island in Croatia. The town of Hvar is a small place full of charm and tradition. It offers numerous gastronomic specialities, but also cultural and historical sights such as Fortica, which is situated above the town of Hvar. Not far from the island of Hvar, there is the
most isolated inhabited island - Vis. It used to be a military base, but today it is a paradise for all lovers of nature and relaxation. Visit the Blue Cave on the island of Bisevo, the Stiniva beach, but also many other hidden beaches and bays. One of the most special beaches on the Mediterranean, is for sure the beach of Bol on the island of Brac. The pebble beach is formed by sea currents, and its shape varies every day. An indispensable city to visit is definitely Split.. Split is the largest city on the Dalmatian coast and is known for its old town, historical monuments and beautiful promenade by the sea.
In the very south of Croatia lies the
pearl of the Mediterranean - Dubrovnik, from where many sailors start their Adriatic sea voyage. Whether you sail the nearby Elaphite Islands, along the coast of the Peljesac peninsula or to the Lastovo archipelago, you will be thrilled by the beauty of this area. The island of Mljet and its National Park, is an
unavoidable destination for all nature lovers. Discover hidden bays and sandy beaches on Peljesac or enjoy the eno-gastronomic offer of the peninsula. Only a few miles from Peljesac, is the island of Korcula. The town of Korcula will enchant you with its architecture, small streets and numerous restaurants serving specialties with fresh fish.. Spend at least one day in the beautiful city of Dubrovnik, which will take your breath away. You can moor your boat in the well-equipped ACI marina in Komolac or in the new Frapa marina in the port of Gruz. In the very south of Croatia is the small town of Cavtat, which attracts many boat owners every year because of its
excellent location and numerous facilities.
Everything you need to know if you are visiting Croatia with your own boat:
1.
You are arriving from the sea / land
- Border control
- Submit list of crew and passengers to the Port Office
- Pay the prescribed fees
- Notification and payment of the residence tax for the passengers on board
2.
Documents on board
- Proof of paid fees
- Proof that the vessel is seaworthy
- Proof that the skipper is able to navigate the ship
- Proof of insurance
- Proof of ownership or power of attorney for the vessel
3.
Safety at sea
To protect your own life and the lives of others, skippers must:
- Follow meteorological reports
- Keep the recommended speed limits
- Check the correctness of the vessel
- Not navigate the boat under the influence of alcohol or other opiates
Ana-Marija Tot
2.12.2021
MY ISTRIA GUIDE
