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Kornati Sailing area - Sailing along the northern coast of Dalmatia

Short Overview Croatia

The sailing area of the Kornati islands is quite easy to drive and suitable because of the short stages especially for beginners and families with children.

  • Good infrastructure
  • Many modern Marinas
  • Large Yacht charter offer
  • Light to moderate winds
  • Sailing Season: April to October
Marinas nearby
  • YC Marina

The islands of Croatia are the largest in the Adriatic Sea. They extend along the Northern Dalmation Coast between the towns of Zadar in the North and Sibenik in the South. The Croatian archipelago consists of numerous closely spaced islands and islets. About 150 islands in various shapes and sizes are scattered over an area of 320 square kilometres. The Island Dugi Otok can be found in the North West, and further east lie the islands of Vrgada, Pasman and Murter. Kornat is in the South West and is the largest of the islands, giving the island group its name. The island of Dugi Otok (Croatian for ‘Long Island’) takes its name from its geographical shape. At its southern tip is one of the most protected natural harbours in the Adriatic - The Telascica. Here you can go well secured to about 6 meters with your anchor. The island’s landscape has a lot to offer, such as its nature park and the saltwater lake Telascica Mir. A part of Croatia was adjusted under conservation in 1980 to protect the National Park. The Croatian National Park also includes the sea area surrounding the islands. The 150 meter cliffs that plunge steeply into the blue water are impressive and create a wonderful view. Cliffs, grottoes, caves, coral and many species of fish can be found hiding themselves here in the depths of the sea. The abundance of marine life creates a paradise for divers and snorkelers. The odd shaped islands with steep cliffs and bizarre rock formations execute a special fascination. Despite the arid, desert like landscape, the islands are a highlight for sailors of the Croatian coast. The rocky wasteland has a surreal appearance amidst the emerald blue sea. 

The south Dalmatian coast has much to offer. Popular destinations for sailing yacht charter Dalmatia include the port city of Trogir - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its medieval Old Town. In the Bay of Kastela, there are seven admirable coastal forts. Split, the cultural capital of the region boasts a beautiful old town and the famous Diocletian's Palace. At Solin, at the mouth of the Jadro, you can visit the ancient archaeological site of Salina. The Biokovo mountains near the coast are over 1700 m high and have some excellent hiking trails.

Image Gallery Croatia

From a navigator’s point of view the area poses no major problems and is suitable for beginners. Sailing conditions are good as the tides have little effect and the flow conditions are mild. Despite this, navigating does require a special level of attention as whilst in the zigzag course, orientation can be lost quickly. It is necessary to check every rock on the map carefully. In addition, there are a few shoals such as underwater rock and coral formations that one should look out for. The prevailing winds are the Maestral from the North West, the Bora from the North East, and Yugoslavian winds from the South/South East. In summer they are mainly based on thermals and fly low to moderate. You can expect the classic wind rhythm: night land breeze (Maestral), daytime sea breezes (Burin). The Bora, a stormy and gusty wind in the sailing area of the Kornati islands is not nearly as dangerous as in the Kvarner Bay. Nevertheless, one should be prepared and follow the Croatian weather forecasts in order to prevent an emergency. Important note: In extreme conditions provide sufficient protection in the Konoba bays for sailing yachts. In Yugoslavia - sailors should avoid unsafe landings, especially in Bora. The major ports in Putz and Piskera are quickly accessible and provide security.

Route Suggestion

Sail in Croatia along the coast of Istria, a gorgeous area of the Mediterranean suitable for beginners. Here you will encounter an incredible variety of landscapes. A good place to begin your trip is Pula, a lovely historic city and the largest in Istria. If visiting in July you will coincide with the Festival of Croatian Film. After Pula, you can head south towards Kvarner... see our full sailing itinerary

Marinas and harbors in the sailing area Kornati
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Airports nearby Croatia
  • Brac airport to Baska Voda: 43,6 km, 1 hour and 15 minutes
  • Brac airport to Makarska: 33,4 km, 1 hour and 1 minute
  • Dubrovnik airport to Zaton harbor: 31,3 km, 38 minutes
  • Mali Losinj airport to Mali Losinj: 7,8 km, 10 minutes
  • Mali Losinj airport to INA Cres Marina: 46,7 km, 47 minutes
  • Rijeka airport to Punat harbor: 27,3 km, 29 minutes
  • Split airport to Rogoznica: 33,1 km, 37 minutes
  • Split airport to Marina Agana: 5,5 km, 9 minutes
  • Split airport to ACI Marina Trogir: 5,8 km, 9 minutes
  • Split airport to Rogac: 52,7 km, 1 hour and 21 minutes
  • Zadar airport to Murter: 74,3 km, 57 minutes
  • Zadar airport to Preko: 21,3 km, 51 minutes
  • Zadar airport to Zadar: 10,9 km, 18 minutes
  • Zadar airport to Ugljan: 21,3 km, 52 minutes
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Climate & Weather

Sailing season is between April and October/ November. The area has a typical Mediterranean climate and there is an exceptional amount of sunshine. Summers are long, warm, mostly dry and usually not overwhelmingly hot. The warmest month is July with an average temperature of 23 °C. The water temperature ranges between 13 °C in February and 24 °C in August.