Yachting Croatia - route for beginner sailors

Why Croatia is ideal for your first sailing steps

Let's face it, Croatia is like Disneyland for sailors. Infrastructure? It runs like a Swiss watch. You'll find a buoy or mooring almost everywhere, so no nightmares about an anchor scouring the bottom (although, that's part of it too, isn't it?). The distances between the islands are just enough to enjoy the cruise, but not make you wonder if you've accidentally made it all the way to Italy. Perfect for families with kids who have the patience for about two chapters of a bedtime story.

And all those islands, islets and bays! Thousands! That's great, but it's also a bit of choice paralysis, isn't it? Which are the "best" ones and how on earth do you get them all done in a week? Experienced sea wolves, who have ridden the Adriatic crosswise, can afford to improvise and sail wherever the wind (or the taste for beer) takes them. But until you get to that level, a little inspiration doesn't hurt. Sure, you can leaf through the legendary "Eight" (a sailing guide, for the uninitiated), but how about a concrete plan?

Orientation cruise for new skippers: around Sibenik

I have one route for you that is perfect for your first solo sailing as a skipper, or just for a relaxing holiday where you want to relax and soak up the right sailing atmosphere. The area around Sibenik is a perfect sailing Croatia - a route for beginner sailors.

Sibenik Bay is protected and the route will take you around the islets, which are almost deserted in the low season, but come alive in the summer just enough to find a cosy pub and not have to dine on canned food. Don't worry, you won't miss the sights and beautiful places. What's more, there's even the famous Krka National Park! Just watch out, sometimes the northern wind, the jugo or even the bora can be a problem. But that's part of it, isn't it? At least you'll have a story to tell!

So let's do it, one day at a time:

Day 1: Sibenik - Peaceful island of Zlarin (approx. 6 NM)

We sail out of Sibenik and head for Zlarin. This island is famous for its marine coral processing. Imagine the silence as you sail into the port of Luka Zlarin. It's well sheltered (unless the bura is blowing, but you have to take that into account). There are no cars here! Do you hear that? It's quiet! At most, the singing from the local church or the cicadas giving their summer concert. Perfect for acclimatising.

Day 2: Zlarin - Tribunj via Prvić or Tijat (approx. 10-12 NM)

Today we have the town of Tribunj. This is such a little gem for you - originally it was on an islet, but as it grew, it was bridged over to the mainland. Narrow streets, history on every corner... And when the fishermen come back from the sea, the harbour turns into one big market. Fresh fish on the grill, who can resist? On the way, you can take a dip on the crowded island of Tijat or on the beaches of Prvić. Just relax.

Day 3: Tribunj - Kaprije or Kakan Islands (approx. 8-10 NM)

Today you have a choice. Either the island of Kakan and its popular bay Potkučina. It's fine there, but beware, it can get a little lively in the evening thanks to the beach bar. If you're more of a laid-back type and just want to hear the waves lapping against the boat, try the town of Kaprije on the island of the same name. Just beware of the stronger north and south winds, it can get pretty strong between the islands.

Day 5: Zmajan - Return to historic Sibenik (approx. 8 NM)

Well, it's time to slowly turn the rudder back to civilization. But don't turn the ship back yet! There's plenty to discover in Sibenik. How about St. Nicholas Fortress? It will remind you strikingly of Fort Boyard. And St. James Cathedral? It's so stunning it's earned a place on the UNESCO list. Take an afternoon stroll and soak up the atmosphere of the old town.

Day 6: Sibenik - Skradin and the majestic Krka National Park (approx. 8 NM upstream)

Today, we're swapping salt water for fresh water. We're sailing up the Krka River to Skradin. This town is one of the gateways to the Krka National Park. And for us sailors, it's great because we can dock right at the ACI marina in Skradin and from there take a cruise boat (yes, a boat again!) to the famous Skradin waterfalls. Get your cameras ready, this is beautiful! Swimming under the falls? You bet!

Day 7: Skradin - Back to Sibenik and end of the cruise (approx. 8 NM downstream)

Last day. Oh, yeah. But don't be sad! Enjoy a relaxing morning in Skradin, soak up the atmosphere around the Krka River, or take a stroll through the streets of Sibenik, depending on where you've decided to spend your last night. Then just return the boat, wipe away a tear (or book another date) and start planning where to go next.

So what do you say? This sailing Croatia - a route for beginner sailors sounds pretty good, doesn't it? It's a tasting plate of the best that Sibenik region has to offer. Short crossings, beautiful scenery, a bit of history and most importantly a lot of experiences you will remember for a long time. So drop your fears, pack your swimsuit and get on board! And don't forget the sunscreen, the sun can be as treacherous as the wind sometimes! Happy sailing!