Sibenik Yacht Charter Guide
We love Šibenik – it’s one of the most impressive towns to sail into on the Adriatic. Whether you start your yacht charter here or stop in on your way from Split or Zadar, it’s a place we always recommend if it fits your route.
Sibenik is the third-largest city in Croatia, but still feels local and relaxed. The town sits in a naturally protected bay, which makes it a great option in any weather. To get in, you cruise down a wide channel and pass the UNESCO-listed St. Nicholas Fortress, then the whole town opens up in front of you — climbing the hill to St. Michael’s Fortress, with the St. James Cathedral (also UNESCO) sitting right on the waterfront. It’s a killer view.
Šibenik is also located right where the Krka River meets the Adriatic, so it’s the best base for visiting Krka National Park. You can go by one of the organized river boats, or anchor in the bay and take the tender up the river for a proper day trip — waterfalls, swimming and lunch among the greenery.
Sibenik is also the gateway to the Kornati Islands, which are just offshore — over 150 mostly uninhabited islands, completely raw and natural. If your goal is to explore the Kornati, starting your charter in Šibenik puts you right on the doorstep. Or visit as part of a longer route between Split and Zadar.
What is docking like in Sibenik?
D-Marin Mandalina is right in Šibenik and made for large yachts. It’s one of Croatia’s top superyacht marinas, with deep water and space for yachts up to 140m. You can also dock along the town quay if you’re in a smaller yacht and want to be right under the old town, or anchor out in the bay.
What to See & Do in Sibenik
Several of our team members have been to Sibenik both by yacht and by land and explored the attractions in and around Sibenik Town. These are some of our favorite things to see and do:
1. Walk the St. Anthony Channel to the St Nicholas fortress
This is one of the best off-the-boat excursions in Šibenik — especially if you like light hiking with a payoff. The St. Anthony Channel walkway runs along the water and ends at the St. Nicholas Fortress, the massive stone fort guarding the entrance to the bay. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of only three sea forts of its kind in the Mediterranean.
The path is about 4.5 km round-trip, totally doable, and mostly flat with a few shaded spots along the way. You can start from the mainland or arrange a short tender drop near the start of the trail.
Tip: Go in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, and bring water. Sunset is magic out there.
2. Explore Sibenik old town by foot
Šibenik’s old town is one of the most authentic on the Croatian coast. It’s less polished than Dubrovnik or Split, which is part of its charm. No cars, just stone alleys, hidden staircases, and locals going about their day.
Wander with no set plan. You’ll stumble across churches, quiet squares, art shops, and family-run bakeries. Everything feels real here — because it is.
Tip: Stop for a coffee at one of the cafés near the main square or up by the fortress. Bring good shoes — it’s all stone and stairs.
3. Visit the Cathedral of St. James (UNESCO)
This is Šibenik’s most iconic landmark, and it sits right on the waterfront. Built entirely of stone (no bricks or mortar) between the 15th and 16th centuries, it’s a masterpiece of Renaissance and Gothic architecture.
Look closely at the outer walls — they’re lined with 71 sculpted heads, believed to be real-life townspeople carved by Juraj Dalmatinac, the lead architect. Inside, the light filtering through the rose window and the vaulted stone ceiling is stunning.
Good to know: It’s open to visitors during the day, but often used for events or services in the evening.
4. Climb Up to St. Michael’s Fortress
For the best view over Šibenik and your yacht in the bay, hike up to St. Michael’s Fortress. The climb is short but steep, and totally worth it. The fortress dates back to at least the 11th century and was a key defensive point for the town.
It’s been beautifully restored with a modern open-air stage, often used for concerts in summer. If there’s a show while you’re in town, go — the setting is hard to beat.
Tip: Bring a camera or drone. The 360° views over the old town, sea, and islands are incredible.
5. Take the tender up the Krka River
From the calm bay of Šibenik, you can head inland — and up the river — to Krka National Park, one of Croatia’s natural highlights. The park is known for its dramatic waterfalls, especially Skradinski Buk, where wooden paths weave through emerald pools and cascading falls.
You can either book an official excursion boat or take the yacht’s tender upriver for a more private experience. The trip takes about 30–45 minutes depending on your starting point.
Good to know: Swimming is now limited to specific zones and may be restricted at certain times. Check the latest park rules before heading up.
Best Sibenik Yacht Charter Itineraries
Yacht Charter Destinations Near Sibenik
Related Posts
The anchorages on Sibenik:
