Discover the Kornati Islands with This 7-Day Šibenik Yacht Charter Itinerary

DAY 1: Sibenik – Zlarin Island
DAY 2: Zlarin Island – Kornati National Park
DAY 3: Kornati National Park – Telascica Nature Park
DAY 4: Telascica Nature Park – Sali
DAY 5: Sali – Zut
DAY 6: Zut – Tijanica Cove, Tijat
DAY 7: Tijat – Skradin and Krka Waterfalls

Starting in Sibenik

This Central Croatian Yacht Charter Itinerary starts and ends in the old town of Sibenik, the gateway to the Kornati Islands. Although Sibenik is quite small, it has a whole three forts: The 15th-century stone Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (you might know it as the Iron Bank in Game of Thrones).

At the top, St. Michael’s Fortress offers stunning views over the Adriatic. At the entrance to Sibenik, you will see it on your way out, is the UNESCO-listed St. Nicholas Fortress, a triangular sea fort only attached to land by a thin rocky walkway.

Zlarin Island

When leaving Sibenik, you might make a quick stop at St Michael’s Fortress at the entrance to the bay. After this, Zlarin Island is only a short cruise away, and it’s perfect for a laid-back first day.

Zlarin has earned the title of the Island of Corals due to its historical legacy and tradition of extracting, processing, and trading corals. Zlarin offers peaceful anchorages and calm, clear waters, great for taking your first dip.

The island is small, with no cars allowed, which adds to its slow, easy pace. Take a walk through the village, and if you’re interested, visit one of the local workshops to learn about the island’s coral harvesting tradition. It’s a great spot to unwind and soak up some island vibes before heading to the more rugged parts of the Kornati.

Kornati Islands (Kornati National Park)

Sailing into the Kornati National Park feels like entering another world. The Kornati Islands are rugged, barren, and incredibly beautiful, dotted with hidden coves and quiet bays. –It has been compared to Indonesia’s Komodo Islands!

On your way there, make a stop at the island of Zakan for lunch at Restaurant Zakan, a casual place right by the water that serves fresh seafood with unbeatable views.

Afterward, head to Levrnaka Island, where you can anchor for a swim in the gin-clear waters of Lojena Bay. This spot is one of the few sandy beaches in the Kornati, and actually, one of the few in Croatia where most beaches are pebbles.

Telascica Nature Park

Next up is Telašćica Nature Park, which sits at the southern tip of Dugi Otok. This place is all about dramatic cliffs, quiet coves, and a saltwater lake called Mir.

One of the best things to do here is to hike up to the top of the tall cliffs for an amazing view of the Adriatic Sea or take a dip in the lake for a completely different experience. The calm bays here are perfect for an overnight anchorage, giving you a peaceful spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Sali

Sali is a small village on Dugi Otok that still feels untouched by tourism. It’s a sleepy little town with a working fishing harbor, perfect if you want to experience authentic island life. Grab a bite at one of the waterfront restaurants, where the focus is on fresh fish and local produce.

If you’re lucky, you might catch some local festivities like the famous “Saljske Užance,” a traditional festival with a donkey race and live music. Sali is a charming stop to slow down and take in the relaxed island pace.

Zut Island

Žut Island is one of those islands that feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere, which is exactly its charm. Known for its peaceful anchorages and quiet surroundings, Žut is a great stop for those looking to really disconnect.

The island is mostly uninhabited, with just a few small restaurants catering to sailors. It’s a perfect place to spend a night on the boat, enjoying the solitude and the star-filled skies.

If you want a more active day, explore the island’s hiking trails for some stunning viewpoints over the surrounding islands.

Tijasnica Cove, Tijat Island

Tijat Island is small and uninhabited, but Tijascina Cove is a real hidden spot for a swim and a quiet day of relaxation. The waters here are crystal-clear, making it a perfect place to snorkel or simply float around.

You won’t find any restaurants or bars, but that’s what makes it special—it’s just you, the water, and your yacht. It’s a great place to recharge before heading back to Šibenik.

Skradin & The Krka Falls