If you cruise south along the Dalmatian Coast and into the Bay of Šibenik, you should proceed up the Krka River. You will remember it as a wonderful part of your yacht charter holiday in Croatian waters. The environment of forested mountains has numerous historical sites as well. Moor in the marina at Skradin and go by water taxi to the National Park. Visit the waterfalls and take a swim; a great day. On Zut you can also swim, for example on Vrgada island which is nearby.
7 Nights Šibenik
Sibenik itself is famous for the St. James Cathedral which has UNESCO World Heritage status. It was begun in 1431 but took just over a century before it was finally completed. Its first mention in history was in the 11th Century when it was the seat of the King. It is the oldest town on the eastern coast of the Adriatic. The Venetians spent three centuries here and they have left their mark in churches and palaces. In addition, it was situated at the boundary between Christianity and Islam with the Ottomans seeking a move further north. As a direct result there are four impressive fortresses to see St. Michael, St. John, Šubićaevac and St. Nicholas which were built as a defence.
The view of the 16th Century fortress of St. Nicholas and the Šibenik Archipelago as you sail through St. Anthony’s Canal is truly memorable. There is a marina on Zlarin, a small island with a sheltered bay, and no cars. It is worth exploring but as an alternative go to Tijat, an uninhabited island north west of Zlarin where you will find real tranquility.
Kaprije is a quiet island whose population of just around 100 make their living from producing grapes and olives. There are no cars on the island so you will walk from where you moor to anywhere you wish to visit. There is a main bay but also a quiet cove known as Nozdra where you will find a nice restaurant. Nearby Kakan is equally quiet and has its own sheltered inlet.
The archipelago that has become the Kornati Islands National Park is made up of nearly 100 islands. It is difficult to imagine a better place for sailing. Located just a short distance north west of Kaprije, yachts need to buy a ticket in order to sail in these waters. They can be bought in advance or from rangers in locations within the Park. There are few better places for simply relaxing and cruising amongst the islands, exploring the many coves and bays. Ravni Zakan is a good island for mooring overnight if you wish to enjoy lovely local cuisine.
Heading north from Ravni Zakan, towards the Kornati Islands National Park, there is the island of Katina where there are berths and yachting facilities. The local restaurant, Mare, is among the oldest in the whole archipelago. Telascica Park has buoys for which you need to buy a ticket. Further along you will reach the Island of Dugi Otok with its well-equipped marina at Sali where you can restock on provisions.
Otok Zut is the second largest island in Kornati Island Group, separated from the island of Kornat by a channel three kilometres wide. There are four possible mooring alternatives with the best being in the ACI Marina situated at the west end of the island. However, if you want a quiet option, head for the North East Coast where there are some nice bays.
Skradin is on the doorstep of the Krka National Park. It’s just a small town but its importance as grown because of nautical tourism. Šibenik and the Krka River are both nearby. The Park is known for its waterfalls, Slapovi Krke. The largest is Skradinski Buk which takes its name from the town of Skradin.