Embark on an unforgettable journey with Navi Croatia Yacht Charter as we take you through the enchanting Šibenik region. Over the course of 7 days, explore a captivating blend of historic charm, pristine nature, and crystal-clear Adriatic waters. From the ancient streets of Šibenik to the breathtaking beauty of nearby islands and hidden bays, this adventure promises a perfect balance of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence. With the freedom of a Croatia boat charter, every day is a new opportunity to uncover the treasures of this remarkable destination.
Day 1: Šibenik - Zlarin - 4 NM
Šibenik is one of the oldest native Croatian towns on the Adriatic coast. It serves as the capital and the cultural, educational, administrative, and economic center of the Šibenik-Knin County. The city is also the seat of the Diocese of Šibenik. First mentioned on Christmas Day in the year 1066 in a charter by King Petar Krešimir IV, Šibenik is often referred to as the "Krešimir's City" in his honor.
Arrive at the marina promptly and complete your check-in to kick off your vacation. Your first destination is the island of Zlarin. On your brief journey there, you will pass through the St. Anthony Canal and have a great sight of the city’s vista, most notable among them, the fortress of St. Nicholas.
Port of Zlarin is protected from all winds except for the very strong W and NW winds. The pier itself is 140 meters long and is equipped with moorings, water, and electricity points. Take the time to explore this island, famous for its coral, and try some of the foods available in local restaurants, with fish, crab, and shellfish being the most prominent among them. It’s no surprise that this island has been inhabited since ancient times. Among its notable historical landmarks are the Church of Our Lady of Rašelj, the Church of the Assumption, and the 17th-century chapels of St. Roch and St. Simon.
Day 2: Zlarin - Žirje (Stupica Vela) - 12 NM
Žirje is a unique island due to the many coves and almost 40 kilometres of coastline. A hundred years ago, Žirje was a bustling island. Today, only around a hundred residents live here year-round, though in summer that number swells to several thousand. Locals like to joke that Žirje has the highest number of tourists per capita—a claim that makes perfect sense once you discover the island’s many stunning coves tucked beneath its seven gentle hills. Žirje is also known for having one of the highest ratios of cars to residents, as well as one of the longest stretches of asphalt road relative to its size.
You will find many inlets where you can shelter for the night, as the coast is very indented. We suggest the following bays: Mala and Velika Stupica, Tratinska, and Muna.
Day 3: Žirje, Kornati Islands, 13 NM
National Park Kornati is famous for its exceptional natural beauty and gastronomic delicacies.
There are many restaurants for you to discover here, but we point out the tavern Opat in Opat Bay of Kornat Island. You may berth in front of the taverns and enjoy delicacies from the sea.
Day 4: Opat - Žut Island, 19 NM
Enjoy the many islets of the archipelago on your way to the island of Žut, and upon your arrival, moor in the ACI Marina Žut.
After you’ve rested, and if you haven’t had your fill of fish food just yet, walk down to the fish restaurant Fešta, located in Golubovac Bay, near the ACI marina.
Day 5: Žut island, Veli Iž Island, 14 NM
Veli Iž, one of two villages on the island of Iž, is located on the western side of the island. The marina has 45 beaches, and there are some very romantic beaches around the island worth visiting. Take the time to explore this charming island, as it has truly beautiful paths. Whether you are interested in walking, hiking, or cycling, you can do it on Iž.
Iž is a small island with plenty to offer, from scenic cycling and hiking trails to well-maintained tennis courts. Its highest point, Korinjak, rises to 168 metres and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. Though modest in size, this gem of the Zadar archipelago is packed with activities and sights that ensure you’ll never be bored. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby islet of Rutnjak, just 300 metres from Iž’s shore, beautifully arranged as a park. Another great day trip idea is the island of Rava, Iž’s largest and equally enchanting neighbour.
Day 6: Veli Iž - Murter - 25 NM
The island of Murter really does have it all. It’s brilliantly positioned in the vicinity of two national parks—Krka and Kornati—and it is also well-connected on land via a highway.
As for the natural beauties of the island, the sea is crystal clear, pebble and sand beaches abound, and the indented coastline guarantees beautiful bays whichever way you go.
Murter, Jezera, Betina, and Tisno are the four villages on the island, and you can find a bed for your charter in any of them. The southern side of the island is well protected from the northern wind, and coincidentally, it features some of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
Day 7: Murter, Šibenik, 19 NM
From Murter, sail back to Šibenik. As you approach Šibenik from the sea, the impressive silhouette of St. Nicholas' Fortress comes into view—a steadfast sentinel that has watched over the city for centuries, never once falling to an enemy.
Sailing through the narrow canals, you'll catch sight of a sun-drenched mosaic of orange rooftops, with the majestic St. James' Cathedral rising above them. Its bells ring out across the stone-paved alleys of the old town, mingling with the cheerful sounds of daily life.
Šibenik has long been a cradle of culture, home to renowned thinkers, artists, and athletes whose legacy still lingers in its streets. This is a city where history and modern life intertwine seamlessly. With its deep, naturally protected harbour offering refuge to sailors, and lively beaches buzzing with energy in summer, Šibenik stands as a vibrant coastal gem of the Adriatic.
Goodbye for now, until our paths cross again.
Photo: htz, shutterstock, tavern festa, opat
