Zadar aerial view sailing in croatia, zadar

Zadar sailing guide

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Pick a route for your perfect sailing holiday

7 days Zadar route

Explore Zadar archipelago in this 7 days route

Kid friendly 7 days Zadar route

This route is made for sailing with children. Islands are perfect places to visit – there are fewer cars, nature is wild and a great place to explore and learn, you can even meet some animals you don’t see on the mainland. T

5 days Zadar route

From the picturesque islands of Molat and Ist, with their charming fishing villages and hidden coves, to the magnificent islands of Kornati, each destination has its own unique charm.

3 day sailing route from Zadar

Explore the islands in Zadar archipelago with this 3-days sailing route.

About Zadar

Zadar is a charming coastal city located in the northern part of Croatia, known for its historic old town and beautiful sea views.

The city is home to many fascinating landmarks, including the ancient Roman Forum, the medieval St. Donatus Church, and the contemporary Sea Organ installation.
Visitors to Zadar can enjoy a variety of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and music festivals, as well as outdoor activities like swimming, sailing, and hiking. Also, Zadar is the place where you can catch one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world!

The local cuisine in Zadar is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Croatian flavours, with fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local wines and spirits featuring prominently on menus.
With its warm climate, stunning scenery, and rich cultural heritage, Zadar is a popular destination for travellers looking to experience the best of Croatia’s Adriatic coast.

 

 

Kornati archipelago in Croatia on a beautiful day

Why is Zadar area popular among sailors?

Zadar is a popular destination among sailors due to its prime location on the Adriatic coast, which makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the nearby islands and coastal towns.

The city has several marinas that offer excellent facilities for boats of all sizes, as well as a range of services. Zadar’s sheltered harbour provides a safety for boats during inclement weather, and the city’s close proximity to other popular sailing destinations such as the Kornati Islands and Dugi Otok make it a favourite among sailors looking to embark on longer voyages.

woman relaxing on a catamaran with a view to a small island

Best mooring locations in Zadar area

Marina Zadar – Located just a few minutes from the city centre offers excellent facilities and services for boats of all sizes, including water and electricity hookups, showers, laundry, and provisioning.
Sukošan Marina – Situated just South of Zadar is one of the largest and most modern in the Adriatic, with over 1,000 berths and a range of amenities such as restaurants, bars, and a swimming pool.
Šimuni Marina – Located on the island of Pag offers a peaceful and picturesque setting with crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Kornati National Park – This protected area comprises a cluster of islands and islets that are perfect for mooring and exploring by boat, with countless coves, bays, and beaches to discover.
Dugi Otok – This long, narrow island is located just west of Zadar and offers numerous anchorages and marinas along its rugged coastline, as well as plenty of opportunities for hiking, swimming, and sightseeing.

Sailing boat | Sebastus Sailing

Sailing conditions and weather in Zadar area

Sailing conditions in the Zadar area are generally favourable, with calm seas and moderate winds prevailing during the summer months. The prevailing winds are typically from the northwest, with average speeds ranging from 5 to 15 knots.

The sea temperature during the summer months ranges from 22°C to 26°C, making it ideal for swimming and water sports. The weather in Zadar is generally warm and sunny during the summer, with occasional thunderstorms and rain showers.

FAQ

Zadar is a charming coastal city located in the northern part of Croatia. Specifically, it is situated on the Dalmatian coast, in the region of North Dalmatia.

The winds in the Zadar area can be quite variable and influenced by many factors, such as the time of year, location, and weather conditions.
In general, S/W wind Maestral is typical for summer months. Other winds typical for the area are Bura and Jugo.

Yes, the Zadar Archipelago is a group of more than 300 islands, islets, and reefs that stretch out along the central Dalmatian coast. These islands are scattered throughout the Adriatic Sea and offer a diverse range of landscapes and experiences.

The amount of time needed to explore Zadar can vary depending on your interests, but generally, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to get a sense of the city and see some of its main attractions.

Zadar has a Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The city experiences plenty of sunshine throughout the year, with an average of over 2,500 hours of sunshine annually.

With over 300 islands in the Zadar Archipelago, there are plenty of options for sailing and island hopping. There are many secluded coves and bays to explore, where you can anchor and swim in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Zadar is home to several marinas that cater to sailing and boating enthusiasts. Some of them are Marina Zadar, Marina Borik, D-Marin Dalmacija, Marina Kornati and ACI Marina Žut.