Cruise from Biograd: A detailed itinerary for an unforgettable week on a yacht

Why a cruise from Biograd is the ideal starting point for sailors

Biograd na Moru is simply a sailing mecca. It’s located almost exactly in the geographical center of the Croatian coast, making it an absolutely brilliant starting point. Northern Dalmatia is generally considered an ideal sailing destination. The distances between marinas and sheltered bays are short, so even a sudden change in weather won’t catch you off guard.

If I had to describe this area in one word, it would be “gem.” From Biograd, you’re just a short distance from three national parks—Kornati, Telaščica, and Krka. And the town itself? It literally thrives on yachting. Did you know that the famous Biograd Boat Show takes place here every year? In October 2026, it will mark its 28th edition.

Choosing a boat: Is a sailboat from Biograd better, or a catamaran from Biograd?

"What do my friends think I'm doing when I say I'm going on a yacht?" Most of them imagine me lying on the deck of a huge motor yacht, drinking champagne and letting palm fronds brush against me. But the reality is a little different. Right from the start, you’ll face a crucial question: are we going on a sailboat or a catamaran?

The sailboat from Biograd is for those who want to feel the wind in their hair, the boat’s tilt, and a bit of that sporty adrenaline. It’s a classic. On the other hand, a catamaran from Biograd is like a floating living room. It offers plenty of space, stability (so your morning coffee won’t spill onto your lap with every little wave), and luxurious comfort. Whichever you choose, your itinerary from Biograd will be worth it.

Day 1: Arrival in Biograd and check-in at Marina Kornati

Here we go. I’m clutching the boat handover checklist and trying to look like I know exactly where the sewage tank valve is. Marina Kornati in Biograd is one of the best in Croatia. The services here are top-notch, and at night you’ll be captivated by the fascinating underwater lighting.

The town itself, nicknamed the “White Town by the Sea,” may not be overflowing with hundreds of historical monuments (it was thoroughly looted a few times in the past), but the evening promenade with a view of the island of Pašman has its own charm. In the evening, I recommend heading to the Konoba Barba or Konoba Kaciol restaurants. And if you want to go for a swim before setting sail, the pebble beaches of Bošana and Dražica boast Blue Flag certification for their cleanliness.

Day 2: A romantic journey across Galešnjak Island to peaceful Žut

Sunday can start with a quest for love. Just a short distance from Biograd lies the island of Galešnjak, which is shaped like a perfect heart. Croatians have known about it for a long time, but it wasn’t until Google Earth made it famous worldwide in 2009. Today, couples get engaged here one after another. Does that mean the beautiful girls we admire on the streets come here en masse to get married? Maybe. But we’ll just sail around it, take a few photos, and head to the island of Pašman.

On Pašman, I recommend Žinčena Bay or Landin Bay for a peaceful swim. In the early evening, we’ll weigh anchor and head to the uninhabited island of Žut. Here you’ll experience a true Robinson Crusoe atmosphere. Resting donkeys will keep you company on the shore. And no, I don’t mean the crew of the boat next to us who can’t seem to tie up properly.

On Žut, be sure to anchor in Sabuni Bay (Hiljača) and visit Konoba Žmara. The Jurag family has been serving fantastic wild-caught fish here for 30 years—no farmed fish. It’s a culinary experience you’ll never forget.

Day 3: Sailing to the outer islands and exploring the history of Žirje

Route: Žut – Žirje (Vela Stupica) (23 nm)

Today we’re heading out toward the open sea. The wind in our hair, salt on our lips. Our destination is Žirje, the outermost island of the Šibenik archipelago.

Žirje gives the impression of being beautifully isolated. In the south of the island lies Vela Stupica Bay, a safe haven even during strong bora winds. And what’s more? You’ll find 6th-century Byzantine ruins here. The view of the open sea at sunset from here is absolutely breathtaking.

In the evening, make a reservation at Konoba Stupica. Mrs. Nina Živković and her family prepare lamb chops and grilled calamari here that are so good, you might even sell your own grandmother for them.

Day 4: Treasures of the Šibenik Archipelago: Coral-covered Zlarin and picturesque Prvič

We continue our scenic drive. Today we’ll discover the true gems of the Adriatic. Zlarin is known as the “Coral Island.” Its local red coral is famous worldwide. The neighboring island of Prvić, meanwhile, is synonymous with romance. You won’t find a single car on either island. Silence without cars. A true balm for the nerves.

On Prvić, don’t miss the Faust Vrančić Museum. Who would have thought that right here, on a small island in Dalmatia, the first parachute was invented? Along the way, you can take a swim near the islands of Kakan or Kaprije. And here’s a little insider tip: not far from there lies the islet of Bavljenac, which, from a bird’s-eye view, looks like a giant human thumbprint thanks to 23 kilometers of ancient stone walls.

Day 5: A boat trip upstream on the Krka River to the waterfalls and the town of Skradin

Route: Zlarin/Prvič – Skradin (12 nm)

Today we’ll swap the salty sea for a freshwater river. We’ll enter the St. Ante Canal, guarded by the imposing 16th-century St. Nicholas Naval Fortress (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Note: The speed limit in the channel is 10 knots, and on the Krka River it is 6 knots.

We’ll follow in the footsteps of Winnetou all the way to the picturesque town of Skradin. From there, you’ll need to take a tour boat to Krka National Park. Waterfalls, cascades, and rapids—it’s like stepping into another world. In 2026, during the peak summer season, expect an admission fee of 40 euros per adult (20 euros in the off-season), but trust me, it’s worth every penny. The most famous waterfall, Skradinski Buk, will absolutely amaze you.

In the evening, take a stroll through the 2,000-year-old streets of Skradin.

Day 6: Back to the coast and the green coves of Murter Island

Route: Skradin – Prvić (Šepurine) – Murter (21–23 nm)

We’re slowly starting to head back. On the way from Skradin, stop for a swim in Jadrija Bay or near the village of Šepurine on Prvić. But our destination today is Murter—a beautiful, green island connected to the mainland by a drawbridge in the town of Tisno.

The opening of the bridge at 5:00 p.m. is a bit of a local event that’s not just for kids. Murter smells of pine trees and fish, and time seems to pass a little more slowly here. You can dock at ACI Marina Jezera, or if you prefer a night on a buoy, the bays of Koširina and Koromašna are excellent choices. In Koširina, you’ll also find the excellent restaurant Stella Maris.

Day 7: One last swim at Slanica Beach and return to the marina

Route: Murter – Biograd na Moru (13 nm)

Day seven. Our last day of sailing. You know that melancholy feeling when you already know you’ll be back in the office tomorrow. But not yet! Treat yourself to one last swim at the famous sandy beach of Slanica on Murter. The crystal-clear water will recharge your batteries for the journey home.

In the afternoon, we’ll head back to our home marina in Biograd. A little tip to wrap things up: arm yourself with patience—the line at the gas station in Biograd tends to be quite long on Friday afternoons.

Practical tips for your itinerary from Biograd

In total, you’ll sail about 100 to 120 nautical miles this week. It’s the perfect amount of time to enjoy sailing, exploring the islands, swimming, and great food.

What did I discover? That a week at sea clears your head better than a year with a therapist. You’ll discover that all you really need in life is a good wind, a sturdy boat, and a great group of people around you. Whether it’s your first voyage or you’re a seasoned sea dog, you’ll never get tired of this stretch of water.

So, when are you weighing anchor? See you at sea!