Middle Adriatic, Croatia – Sailing, Islands, and Coastal Adventures
Are you looking for a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, or a lively beach where you can dance from dusk till dawn? The Middle Adriatic sailing area offers the best of both worlds. With the most scenic islands and crystal-clear waters, this region is an ideal destination for anyone seeking relaxation, adventure, and authentic Mediterranean experiences.
Sail along the Dalmatian coast, immerse yourself in Mediterranean scents, tastes, and sounds, admire untouched natural beauty, explore the rich history, and experience local culture.
Activities in the Middle Adriatic
The islands and coastline offer a wide variety of activities:
- Cycling and hiking through scenic trails
- Kayaking and diving tours
- Wine tasting and culinary tours
- Exploration of hidden bays and traditional fishing villages
Accessibility
- Middle Dalmatia is easily reachable by plane or car:
- Zadar Airport and Split Airport serve international flights.
The region hosts the largest marinas on the Adriatic, offering yacht charters, sailing yachts, catamarans, motorboats, and gulets.
Trogir, the UNESCO town
Sailing Areas of the Middle Adriatic
The Middle Adriatic region, also known as Dalmatia, is divided into three major sailing archipelagos:
Zadar Area – Arhipelag Zadar
The Zadar Archipelago comprises nearly 300 islands, the largest of which are Pag, Dugi Otok, Ugljan, Pašman, and the Kornati National Park islands. Expect:
- Untouched nature and secluded bays
- Swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear sea
- Traditional cuisine
Travel tips:
- Zadar Airport is only 7 km from the city center.
- Popular starting points for sailing include Marina Zadar and D-Marina Borik.
- Other large marinas: Marina Dalmacija in Sukošan and Marina Kornati in Biograd.
Experience sunsets over Kornati, peaceful sailing, and explore unique bays off the beaten path.
Sunset view over the National Park Kornati
Šibenik Area – Tranquility and Natural Beauty
The Šibenik Archipelago covers around 250 islands, islets, reefs, and cliffs over 160 km². Only six islands have permanent residents, preserving the authentic Mediterranean lifestyle.
- Major islands: Zlarin, Žirje, Prvić, Kaprije, Krapanj, Murter
- Coastal highlights: Vodice, Skradin, Primošten
- Attractions: National Park Krka
Sailing tips:
- Šibenik is an excellent starting point for sailing holidays.
- Close to motorways and two airports: Zadar and Split.
- Modern marinas provide top-brand yachts, catamarans, and motorboats for charter.
This region is ideal for those seeking tranquility, untouched nature, and small traditional villages.
Primošten
Split Area – Magical Islands and Culture
Sailing from Split opens access to the Dalmatian archipelago, including the islands:
Mali & Veli Drvenik, Šolta, Brač, Hvar, Šćedro, Vis, Biševo, Korčula (although located in the South Dalmatia)
Marinas within 50 km of Split:
- ACI Marina Split (Split)
- Marina Kaštela (Kaštel Gomilica)
- Trogir: ACI Marina Trogir, Marina Trogir, Marina Baotić
- Marina Agana (15 km from Trogir toward Šibenik)
Accessibility:
- Split Airport connects to over 80 destinations.
- By car, take the A1 motorway.
- The Split ferry port connects regularly to Ancona, Italy.
Sailing tips:
- The nearest islands are no more than 15 nautical miles apart, perfect for safe exploration.
- Explore small coastal towns and traditional fishing villages, preserving traces of ancient life.
- Sailing season: April to October, with music festivals, local festivities, and culinary experiences.
Find your oasis of peace in secluded bays, enjoy fish-based specialties, and sip homemade wine while soaking in the serene environment.
The Middle Adriatic is a destination where adventure meets relaxation, offering experiences for all types of travelers, from families to solo adventurers.
Komiža village on the island of Vis
