Embark on a 7-day journey with Navi Croatia Yacht Charter through the breathtaking Istrian peninsula. Experience indulgent gastronomy, ancient towns, stunning coastlines, and unforgettable moments. Sailing holidays in Croatia offer the perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure, making this curated itinerary a true taste of the very best Istria has to offer.
Day 1: Pula - Brijuni National Park, 7 NM
Pula is home to many ancient Roman landmarks, such as the temple of Augustus, the Arch of Sergii (arch of triumph), and the Roman amphitheatre. They are worth visiting before you depart from one of Pula’s two main marinas—ACI Pula and Marina Veruda.
National Park Brijuni is only five miles away from ACI Pula, and it consists of 14 islands. You can spend the night in a small marina on the largest island, Veli Brijun. The islands used to be a summer residence of the Yugoslavian president, and it has rich forests, Roman ruins, as well as a safari park. You may choose between walking the trails on the island or cycling.
Day 2: Brijuni - Susak or Unije - 33 NM
On your way from Brijuni to Susak Island, you will find yourself passing by the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula and the Premantura resort. There you might visit Cape Kamenjak or any of the hidden coves and secluded beaches strewn around the peninsula.
Susak features a wonderful sandy bay where you may anchor, but beware of the northern wind, commonly known as ‘bura,’ as it can be very strong.
You may also choose to sail up north to Unije Island, which features more sheltered bays. Some of them offer mooring places.
Located on the east side of Unije Island, Maracol is the best-known bay if you want to just spend the day on the beach. For more activities, we suggest taking the hiking trail or going fishing. The island has many facilities and restaurants.
Day 3: Susak Island - Premuda Island, 18 NM
Premuda Island is near the city of Zadar, and you may find mooring buoys a bit further away from the island, as the port may be full during the summer months.
The rugged island landscapes of Premuda are shaped by the stone pine trees and evergreen shrubs, and not much else in terms of vegetation.
Upon reaching the port, you will have the vista of the chapel of San Ciriaco and of a small, charming tavern. Diving enthusiasts may choose to visit The Cathedral, or ‘Katedrala’ as it’s known among the locals, a cave system that features special light effects due to the porous ceiling.
If you would prefer a shorter sail, it takes about 10 NM from Susak to Ilovik, which offers docking and mooring buoys as anchorage options.
Day 4: Premuda - Dugi Otok, 15 NM
Sailing south from Premuda will take you in the direction of Dugi Otok, ‘The Long Island.’. Before reaching Dugi Otok, you will sail by the islands Škarda, Ist, and Molat.
The large Sakarun Bay is an anchorage option, and it features some of the most picturesque beaches in Croatia.
You may choose to sail on to Veli Rat at the northern tip of Dugi Otok, where you will find a small but modern Baotić marina. There you will find a small supermarket, as well as a café and a restaurant.
Worth visiting is the Punta Bjanca lighthouse, located three kilometres NW of the village. Sailing along the coast of Dugi Otok, you will see the impressive steep cliffs, whereas on the southern end of the island, you will find the Telašćica Nature Park.
Telašćica is a stunning natural gem known for its dramatic cliffs, serene bays, and the unique saltwater lake Mir. This pristine area offers breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, or sailing. Sailing holidays in Croatia provide the perfect opportunity to explore this untouched paradise, where the park’s rugged cliffs, rising over 160 meters, offer awe-inspiring views of the Adriatic. Telašćica is a tranquil escape, ideal for nature lovers seeking unspoiled beauty and peaceful exploration.
Day 5: Dugi Otok, Silba Island, 16 NM
On your way back to Pula from Dugi Otok, you will reach Silba Island.
Porat Sv. Ante is a very popular anchorage in the SW, and it’s a 40-minute walk to the town. Be sure to equip yourself with a flashlight if you will be staying long, as the trail goes through the forest. The other option is the Mul marina.
Known for the idyllic sand, pebble, and rock beaches, we recommend the Sotorisce sandy beach on the southern side and the pebble beach in Pocukmarak Bay.
Day 6: Silba - Lošinj Island, 11 NM
Sailing north from Silba to Kvarner Bay, you will reach Lošinj Island.
You may choose between three marinas in Veli Lošinj, or you may choose to stay in Artatore Bay. The village sits in the middle of a pine forest, and with three restaurants, you have a great selection of fresh and local meals.
Mali Lošinj is a better-known town, and the restaurants and bars around the harbour offer a fantastic atmosphere as well as service.
Lošinj Island takes great pride in its health tourism sector, as it has 250 kilometres for walking, cycling, or hiking.
Day 7: Lošinj Island, Pula, 33 NM
On your way back to Pula, take a lunch break in Unije or Susak, depending on where you chose to stay on the second day.
After reaching Pula, refuelling at the marina, and checking out, take another leisurely stroll around the historic city.
Pula is a historic coastal city in Istria, Croatia, renowned for its well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, one of the largest in the world. This vibrant city seamlessly blends ancient history with modern charm, offering lively markets, beautiful beaches, and a bustling harbour. Sailing holidays in Croatia provide an incredible way to experience Pula’s stunning coastline, allowing visitors to explore its rich heritage, including the Temple of Augustus and ancient city gates, while enjoying local delicacies like seafood and Istrian wine.
Photo: shutterstock, HTZ