Best 8-day Croatia Kornati Yacht Charter Itinerary: Skradin, Sibenik, Piskera, Telascica, Zut, Murter, Vodice & Zlarin

Discover the hidden gems of the Kornati Archipelago during this 8-day and 7-night Croatia yacht charter itinerary

Day 1: Skradin to Sibenik – 9 miles

Before setting off from the marina, it’s worth strolling around the small town in the region, which lies on the river Krka and constitutes the entrance to the Krka National Park. Within the park, you will find, among others, the impressive Skradinski Buk waterfalls. Skradin clock tower, standing since 1872, is another spot to visit before sailing off by the Skradin beach. It is a historic building and resembles more of a military lookout rather than a church clock tower.

The sailing route begins and after just 11 miles on board, our yacht reaches the town of Sibenik, sailing through a river canyon that brings to mind the “Lord of the Rings” movies. Stay overnight at Sibenik, located in which a Unesco World Heritage site the Cathedral of St. James. This magnificent Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece- representing the town’s rich history of the 15th century.

Important information (Skradin Marina):

• The small Skradin marina is a freshwater one, very suitable for keeping boats moored all through the year.
• Skradin is very popular and overrun by tourists and passengers in high summer, so perhaps the best times to visit are May-July or September-October.

Don’t miss:

• Krka National Park waterfalls- one of Europe’s largest and most beautiful geographic regions.
• Old Timer Museum Scardona Park, an antique car museum.
• UNESCO World Heritage site- The Cathedral of St. James.
• The 4 fortresses that kept Sibenik and its population safe.
• The Visovac monastery, on its own tiny island.

Day 2: Sibenik to Piskera (Adriatic Coast) – 15 miles

The beginning of sailing on the open sea begins from the Adriatic coast, and the widescreen marvel of the Adriatic Sea is ahead. We enter the Kornati archipelago, the densest in the Mediterranean. After Sibenik, we sail 15 miles south, to the biggest island of the archipelago, Piskera. This part of the route will provide wonderful views of several small islands and crystal clear waters. Spend the night at the marina in Piskera.

Important information (National Park Ticket):

• Charter yachts are permitted to sail in the Kornati archipelago, but they must check-in and out of the marina’s harbourmaster’s office before embarking on their itinerary.
• The marina in Piskera operates access from April to October only, and the berthing price includes a ticket to the Kornati Marine Park.
• The bay at Piskera is the largest on land and is famous as one of the best sailing destinations in Croatia.

Don’t miss:

• The chance to visit the many very small islands on the way to Piskera – each with breathtaking coves and beaches.
• Exploring the area around the island on foot or by bike.
• Kornati Islands National Park and its wildlife.

Day 3: Piskera to Telascica – 5-6 miles

On to a leisurely sail through the archipelago, you will now come across the Kornati Islands National Park. It is a group of 140 islands, islets, and cliffs that form a unique landscape. As you navigate the park, you’ll be mesmerized by the island’s diverse wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and various bird species. Stay overnight at Telascica, an 8 km long bay studded with tiny islands and well protected from the winds.

Important Information :

• Telascica is designated a nature park, so recreational fishing is allowed, but not spear-fishing or a collection of shellfish. There is a rich variety of animals and they are all protected by law.
• The Telascica Marina is a sheltered port and can accommodate up to 200 boats. It also has a restaurant, beach, pool and rental facilities for water sports.
• The ruins of a Byzantine fortress located in Tureta are a beautiful relic of the past at the Kornati islands.
• Kornati National Park has ancient remnants of colonization during the Illyrian period.

Don’t miss :

• On the southern side of the bay, you will come across Mir Lake. The water is fed by the sea which seeps in through underground cracks. It’s a perfect place to swim, particularly as the water is always at least 6 degrees warmer than the surrounding sea.
• Visiting the National Park Information Centre at Telascica – offering a fascinating insight into its history and geological formation.
• Exploring the islands of the Kornati national park on foot or by bike.

Day 4: Telascica to Zut – 13 miles 

Zut is the second-largest island in the Kornati archipelago. Numerous beautiful and secluded coves and bays can be found along its extensive coastline and the island is uninhabited although it has a marina which operates from March to October. You will stay here tonight and have a chance to stock up on your transportation supplies at one of the local grocery stores.

Important information (for mega yachts):

• The straits between Kornati and the smaller islands have many shallow reefs, so a look at the map is necessary at all times.
• The island has a rich maritime heritage and the local fishermen hold annual regattas here each summer.
• Due to its remote location, it is advisable to bring all supplies you need in Zut.
• Despite its location, Zut is not considered part of the Kornati National Park.

Don’t miss :

• A stop at the island of Kornati, the park’s “capital”, with a plethora of small uninhabited island paradises around it, each worth a swim.
• Exploring the hidden beaches and coves along the coast of Zut.

Day 5: Zut to Murter – 13 miles

An island-hopping easy-going sail between small islands towards the largest settlement in the archipelago, the ancient town/ island of Murter. There are plenty of things to do at Murter including swimming, snorkelling in clear waters, or just relaxing on the beach. If water activities don’t suit you, visit the town of Tisno. Tisno is a picturesque place with narrow streets, traditional houses, and a lively atmosphere.

Important information :

• Murter is one of the biggest islands in the Kornati archipelago and its main town, Jezera, is a popular tourist destination with restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops.
• Murter may be an island but is connected to the mainland by a short bridge, and because of that it is very busy in the summer.
• The strait between Murter and Dugi Otok can be tricky to navigate so it’s best to go with a guide.

Don’t miss :

• The remains of a military base built in World War II are on top of a hill, with tunnels bored deep inside it. Some locals believe the place is haunted.
• Traditional salt pans and festivals in Tisno during the summer.
• Betina museum of wooden shipbuilding in Murter.
• Exploring the charming town of Jezera.

Day 6: Murter to Vodice – 9 miles  

Another short sail to the popular tourist resort of Vodice with a great selection of restaurants, cafes and shops, as well as the Aquarium and Museum of Maritime Tradition, which displays antique amphorae, old scuba diving equipment and models of ships.

Important information :

• Since shopping was mentioned, keep in mind that as of January 2023, the official currency of the country is the Euro as it became a member of the European Union.
• It is important to remember that Vodice is a “no-stop” harbour in the Kornati National Park and no fishing or spearfishing is allowed.

Don’t miss :

• Scuba diving operations based in Murter can guide you to the “Poseidon’s Garden”, one of the most interesting dive areas in Europe. Suitable for certified divers or beginners.
• A boat trip around the nearby islands of Prvić, Zlarin and Dugi Otok.
• Aquarium and Museum of Maritime Tradition in Vodice.
• Traditional houses and cuisines at Vodice.

Day 7: Vodice to Zlarin – 3 miles

By way of the island of Prvic, which has some of the best beaches and coves of the Adriatic, accompanied by dolphins on the way, we reach Zlarin, a slightly larger island, sparsely populated with an underwater garden of colourful coral.

Important information (large yacht):

• The waters around Zlarin are clear and crystal-like and it is possible to see a variety of marine life, including dolphins, lobsters, sea urchins and sponges.
• Motor vehicles are not allowed on Zlarin, the island, however, is so small that may be completely explored on foot.

Don’t miss :

• The jewels are traditionally manufactured from coral harvested by local fishermen.
• Seven churches or chapels dating back to the 14th century are worth a visit.
• The coral gardens – can be explored by snorkelling or scuba diving.

Day 8: Zlarin to Sibenik/Skradin beach- 11.5 miles 

On to the return journey, sailing off from Zlarin and entering the Krka River estuary to sail upstream to Sibenik and then, passing under the great Sibenik bridge, onwards to point of departure Skradin.

Important information:

• Sibenik is a useful stop for re-fuelling on the way back from the sailing course.

This itinerary offers a unique charter experience, from island hopping to marina stops and exploring cultural attractions. With the itinerary above, you can explore all of the best locations in Croatia’s Adriatic Sea on one amazing trip aboard your own charter yacht. Whether you choose to visit historic ports and picturesque bays or take part in thrilling water activities and explore secluded coves, you will find something special in Croatia’s waters.

Have questions about the itinerary? Our team of experienced charter professionals is always available to answer any and all questions you may have. Contact us today and let us help make your yacht charter dreams come true! We hope you enjoy your itinerary and have a wonderful time exploring Croatia’s beautiful Adriatic Sea.

Bon voyage!