Catamaran CharterCroatia™
— Route · 14 days · one-way
Catamaran charter route · Istria

Punat
via 14 Days.

Embark on a 14-day yacht charter from Punat exploring Istria & Kvarner—Rovinj, Cres, Lošinj, Brijuni, Rabac & beyond—hidden coves, historic towns & Adriatic charm.

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The route

Day-by-day route

Click any pin on the map or any day in the Route summary below to see the daily stop, narrative, and photos.

Lopar
Day 1

Punat → Lopar (Rab)

Depart Punat for a gentle 12 NM reach across the Kvarner Gulf to Lopar on Rab. Anchor off Rajska Plaža, a golden sand crescent, then explore the peninsula's ancient trails. Savour Rapska torta as the sun dips, painting the sea and sky in warm hues, an ideal introduction to island life.

Distance

12 NM

Sailing

~2.4h at 5 kn

Route at a glance

Best season

May – early October (peak Jun & Sep)

Duration

14 days · Sat – Sat

Departure

Punat

Sailing area

Istria

Route summary

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The full story

Day-by-day journey

Named anchorages, restaurants, and route notes for every leg of the week — written by sailors who’ve actually run this passage.

Day 1 / 14
Lopar
1
Day 1

Punat → Lopar (Rab)

Cast off from Punat, a tranquil haven on Krk, leaving behind the scent of olive groves, for a gentle twelve-nautical-mile reach across the Kvarner Gulf to Lopar on the island of Rab. The passage offers a clear view of the mainland mountains before approaching Lopar's distinctive peninsula, known for its extensive sandy beaches. Drop anchor in the sheltered waters off Rajska Plaža, a remarkable golden sand crescent, where the seabed slopes gently, ideal for a refreshing swim after the journey. Later, dinghy ashore to explore the trails leading up to the 12th-century Church of St. Euphemia, offering panoramic views. As evening approaches, find a spot to enjoy a slice of Rapska torta, a traditional almond cake, while the sun sets over the Kvarner Gulf, casting a warm glow over the limestone cliffs. Lopar provides well-protected anchorages against the prevailing maestral, with excellent holding in sand.

Things to do

Swim and relax at Rajska Plaža, Lopar's famous sandy beach

Hike to the 12th-century Church of St. Euphemia for panoramic views

Sample traditional Rapska torta with a sunset view

Explore Lopar's car-free village paths and hidden coves

Mooring tip

Anchor off Rajska Plaža in 3-6 m of sand; holding is excellent and offers good protection from the maestral.

Novalja
2
Day 2

Lopar → Novalja (Pag)

Depart Lopar for an 18-nautical-mile reach west across the Kvarnerić, setting course for the island of Pag. Known for its stark, limestone karstic landscapes, sculpted by the bura wind, Pag offers a striking contrast to the green of Rab. Arrive in the bay of Novalja, a welcoming harbour town that serves as an excellent base for exploring the island. Secure a berth in Novalja's town quay, stern-to with lazy lines, or anchor in the bay if preferred. A short taxi ride north leads to the ancient olive groves of Lun, where gnarled, millennia-old trees stand as living sculptures, their silvery leaves shimmering in the saline breeze. Back in Novalja, dedicate time to sampling Paški Sir, the island's celebrated sheep cheese, perhaps with a visit to Gligora Dairy. The evening invites a stroll along Novalja's promenade, followed by dinner at a konoba offering fresh seafood and local lamb, reflecting Pag's unique blend of land and sea.

Things to do

Explore the ancient, gnarled olive groves of Lun

Taste Paški Sir at Gligora Dairy near Kolan

Stroll Novalja's waterfront promenade at dusk

Dine at a local konoba for fresh Pag lamb

Mooring tip

Novalja town quay offers stern-to mooring with lazy lines; water and power available. Anchor in the bay's north side in 5-8m sand, good holding. Fuel pier available.

Susak
3
Day 3

Novalja → Susak

Depart Novalja for a 28 NM southwest reach across the Kvarnerić to Susak, an island unlike any other in the Adriatic, formed entirely of fine sand over a limestone core. This car-free haven invites a slower pace, its paths worn smooth by generations. Drop anchor in the well-protected Bok Bay, where the seabed slopes gently from a sandy beach into depths ideal for a peaceful night. The water here, warmed by the shallow bay, is perfect for an afternoon swim, its clarity revealing the sandy bottom. Ashore, wander the narrow, unpaved lanes of Susak village, observing the unique local architecture and the scent of wild sage carried on the maestral. The island's vineyards, planted in its rich sandy soil, produce distinctive local wines, best enjoyed as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of ochre and violet. This quiet stop offers a profound sense of escape, a testament to the island's enduring charm.

Things to do

Swim and snorkel in the clear, warm waters of Bok Bay

Walk the sandy paths through Susak's vineyards and sage fields

Explore Susak village, observing its unique architecture

Enjoy sunset views from the island's western cliffs

Mooring tip

Anchor in Bok Bay, 4-8m sand; good holding and protection from maestral. Dinghy ashore to the village pier.

Mali Lošinj
4
Day 4

Susak → Mali Lošinj

Cast off from Susak for a gentle nine-nautical-mile passage north to Mali Lošinj, often referred to as the 'Island of Vitality' for its healing climate and fragrant pine forests. Approach the main harbour, or opt for the more secluded Čikat Bay, a picturesque inlet fringed with historic pastel villas and dense Aleppo pines where the water is exceptionally clear for a morning swim. The ACI Marina Mali Lošinj offers stern-to mooring with lazy lines, though booking ahead is advisable in peak season. Once ashore, wander the elegant waterfront of Mali Lošinj town, where the air is often scented with pine resin and sea salt. A cultural highlight is the Apoxyomenos Museum, housing the remarkably preserved ancient bronze statue of an athlete, discovered in the seabed nearby. Consider a stroll through the Čikat forest park before dinner, enjoying the cicadas at dusk.

Things to do

Swim and snorkel in the clear waters of Čikat Bay

Visit the Apoxyomenos Museum in Mali Lošinj town

Stroll through the fragrant pine paths of Čikat Forest Park

Dine at a waterfront konoba in Mali Lošinj harbour

Mooring tip

ACI Marina Mali Lošinj provides stern-to mooring with lazy lines; booking ahead via the ACI app is strongly recommended in high season.

Unije
5
Day 5

Mali Lošinj → Unije

Depart Mali Lošinj for a pleasant 12-nautical-mile reach west to Unije, a serene, car-free island offering a true escape from the bustle of larger ports. The preferred anchorage, Maracol Bay, on Unije's eastern flank, provides excellent shelter and a sandy seabed at 5-8 metres, making for a secure overnight stop. The bay's remarkably clear, warm waters invite swimming and paddleboarding, while the surrounding pine-scented paths lead to panoramic viewpoints across the Kvarner Gulf. Dinghy ashore to Unije village, where time seems to slow among the stone houses and low garden walls. Konoba Unije or Konoba Kod Joze offers authentic local cuisine, often featuring *brudet* – a traditional fish stew – prepared with the day's catch, best enjoyed as the cicadas begin their evening chorus. This protected bay holds steady through the afternoon maestral, allowing for a peaceful night under a star-filled sky.

Things to do

Kayak or paddleboard in the clear waters of Maracol Bay

Walk the car-free paths of Unije village to the lighthouse

Dine on fresh brudet at Konoba Unije or Konoba Kod Joze

Swim and snorkel the sandy shallows of Maracol Bay

Mooring tip

Maracol Bay offers good anchoring in 5-8m of sand; holding is excellent, providing shelter from the maestral. No marina facilities are available.

Pula
6
Day 6

Unije → Pula

The 28-nautical-mile run southeast from Unije to Pula offers a smooth passage, often assisted by a gentle afternoon maestral, setting the stage for arrival into Istria’s largest city. Pula is dominated by its magnificent Roman Arena, a remarkably preserved amphitheatre that still hosts concerts and festivals, its limestone walls glowing honey-gold in the late afternoon sun. After securing a berth at ACI Marina Pula, a short walk brings you into the city centre, where the Temple of Augustus and the Arch of the Sergii stand as testaments to Roman heritage. For a refreshing dip, the clear waters and pine-fringed coves around the Verudela peninsula offer inviting swimming spots before dinner. Istrian cuisine is renowned, and a visit to a local konoba like Vodnjanka or Batelina promises authentic flavours, particularly fresh seafood or pasta dishes infused with local truffles, a true taste of the region.

Things to do

Explore the Pula Arena, a remarkably preserved Roman amphitheatre

Wander through the historic centre to the Temple of Augustus

Swim in the clear coves around the Verudela peninsula

Dine at a local konoba for Istrian truffle pasta or fresh seafood

Mooring tip

ACI Marina Pula offers stern-to berths with lazy lines; book ahead in high season as it can fill quickly.

Medulin
7
Day 7

Pula → Medulin

Depart Pula for the short seven-nautical-mile passage south-southeast to Medulin, a gentle introduction to the southern Istrian coast. The route skirts the eastern edge of Cape Kamenjak, a protected nature park renowned for its rugged limestone cliffs, Aleppo pine forests, and numerous secluded coves. Drop anchor for a refreshing swim in one of Kamenjak's emerald inlets, perhaps Kolombarica cave or Mala Kolombarica, where the water clarity reveals ancient seabed formations and the occasional dinosaur footprint preserved in the rock. Continue into Medulin's sheltered bay, a traditional fishing village now a popular resort, where the scent of pine resin mixes with the salt air. The harbour offers stern-to mooring; be mindful of potential afternoon maestral. For dinner, Konoba Batelina, celebrated for its fresh brodet and locally sourced ingredients, provides an authentic taste of Istrian maritime cuisine, served with a view of the working harbour. This easy day allows ample time to unwind and absorb the tranquil pace of the Adriatic.

Things to do

Explore the wild coves and cliffs of Cape Kamenjak

Search for dinosaur footprints at Kolombarica Bay

Enjoy a traditional Istrian brodet at Konoba Batelina

Swim in the clear waters of Mala Kolombarica cove

Mooring tip

Medulin harbour offers stern-to mooring; anchor in 3-5m sand/mud outside the main quay for good holding. Limited space in high season.

Rabac
8
Day 8

Medulin → Rabac

Depart Medulin for a refreshing 22-nautical-mile passage north, sailing into the expansive Kvarner Gulf towards Rabac. This charming fishing village, often called the 'Pearl of Kvarner', is nestled beneath the green slopes of Labin, offering a picturesque and sheltered harbour. Approach the marina, where stern-to mooring is standard, often assisted by lazy lines, ensuring a secure berth even if the bura makes an appearance. Once settled, stretch your legs along the renowned Lungomare promenade, a scenic coastal path connecting various coves and beaches, including the inviting pebble shores of Girandella. The air here carries the scent of Aleppo pine and the distant call of gulls, a quintessential Istrian welcome. As evening approaches, find a spot with a view towards the west; the sunset behind the formidable Učka Mountain range is a spectacle of shifting light, casting molten gold across the bay and illuminating the ancient stone of nearby Labin. Consider an early dinner at a waterfront konoba, savouring fresh seafood caught that day.

Things to do

Stroll the scenic Lungomare promenade to Girandella Cove

Swim or cliff-jump from the rocks at Girandella

Watch the sunset over Učka Mountain from the harbour

Dine at a waterfront konoba for fresh Kvarner seafood

Mooring tip

ACI Marina Rabac offers stern-to berths with lazy lines; book ahead in high season. Fuel pier available.

Opatija
9
Day 9

Rabac → Opatija

The 22-nautical-mile run north from Rabac takes you along the verdant eastern coast of Istria, a passage often smoothed by a gentle maestral. Opatija, the 'Old Lady' of the Adriatic, emerges as a graceful resort town, its grand Belle Époque villas and hotels testament to its Habsburg past. Secure your catamaran stern-to in ACI Marina Opatija, a well-protected harbour offering full services. Once ashore, wander the famed Lungomare promenade, a twelve-kilometre coastal path where Austro-Hungarian aristocracy once took their evening constitutionals, the scent of sea salt and pine resin lingering in the air. For dinner, seek out a konoba offering authentic Istrian fuzi pasta, often served with local truffles, perhaps at Bevanda for a refined experience. Conclude the evening with a classic cocktail at Hemingway Bar, soaking in the sophisticated atmosphere that has defined Opatija for over a century.

Things to do

Stroll the historic Lungomare promenade

Dine on Istrian fuzi with local truffles

Enjoy a classic cocktail at Hemingway Bar

Admire the Belle Époque architecture of Opatija

Mooring tip

ACI Marina Opatija offers stern-to berths; book ahead in high season. Fuel pier is available.

Rijeka
10
Day 10

Opatija → Rijeka

The brief seven-nautical-mile passage east from Opatija to Rijeka offers a change of pace, moving from a refined resort town to a bustling port city with a rich industrial and cultural heritage. Approach Rijeka's harbour, observing the working docks and the city's impressive Austro-Hungarian architecture rising from the waterfront. Secure your catamaran at ACI Marina Rijeka, a convenient base for exploring. Once ashore, ascend to Trsat Castle, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views across the Kvarner Bay and the city below, its limestone walls hinting at centuries of history. Later, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant heart along Korzo, the main pedestrian promenade, where locals enjoy coffee and people-watch. The scent of fresh seafood from the nearby Dolac Market often mingles with the salty air, inviting a taste of local Kvarner scampi. This city provides a fascinating blend of grit and grandeur, a true Croatian urban experience.

Things to do

Explore the historic ramparts of Trsat Castle

Stroll the lively Korzo promenade, soaking in city life

Sample fresh Kvarner scampi at Dolac Market

Discover the Governor's Palace and Maritime History Museum

Mooring tip

ACI Marina Rijeka offers stern-to mooring with lazy-lines; fuel is available at the marina.

Crikvenica
11
Day 11

Rijeka → Crikvenica

Depart Rijeka for a pleasant 16-nautical-mile passage southeast along the Kvarner Gulf to Crikvenica, a town where the verdant slopes of the Vinodol Valley gently meet the sea. This coastal run often benefits from a gentle maestral, making for a comfortable beam reach. Drop anchor near Kaštel, the site of a former Roman fort, and don a mask to explore the submerged ancient remains just metres from the shore – a subtle reminder of the region's long history; the water here is often remarkably clear, revealing the limestone foundations. A short dinghy ride ashore leads to Crikvenica's vibrant waterfront. From there, a winding path ascends to the Chapel of Our Lady of Grič, offering commanding views across the Kvarner and the Vinodol hinterland, the air often fragrant with wild herbs and pine resin. As dusk settles, find a table at one of the konobas along the promenade, perhaps seeking out a local speciality like škampi na buzaru, prepared with garlic and white wine; the town, once a fishing village, retains its charm, with swallows often darting overhead as the sky deepens.

Things to do

Snorkel over Roman remains near Kaštel

Hike to the Chapel of Our Lady of Grič for Kvarner views

Dine on local škampi na buzaru at a waterfront konoba

Explore Crikvenica's promenade and old town

Mooring tip

Crikvenica Marina offers stern-to mooring with lazy lines; booking online is recommended during high season, especially for larger catamarans.

Senj
12
Day 12

Crikvenica → Senj

The ten-nautical-mile passage south from Crikvenica into the Velebit Channel brings a distinct shift in the coastal character, often accompanied by the legendary Bura wind funnelling down from the mountains. Senj, a historic port and former refuge for the Uskok pirates, lies nestled below the imposing Nehaj Fortress. The harbour offers stern-to mooring along the town quay, providing a front-row seat to the dramatic backdrop of the Velebit Mountains. Once ashore, wander through the narrow, cobbled streets to discover local konobas serving hearty maneštra, a traditional bean stew, perfect for warming up after a brisk sail. As twilight settles, ascend to Nehaj Fortress, a 16th-century sentinel built to defend against Ottoman incursions. From its battlements, the panoramic views across the Kvarner Gulf are breathtaking, often accompanied by the crisp, pine-scented air carried by the Bura. This journey offers a tangible connection to Croatia's maritime past and the powerful natural forces that define its northern Adriatic.

Things to do

Ascend Nehaj Fortress for Kvarner Gulf views

Explore Senj's cobbled old town

Dine at a local konoba for traditional maneštra

Experience the unique microclimate of the Velebit Channel

Mooring tip

Senj harbour offers stern-to mooring on the town quay; depths 3-5m. Exposed to strong Bura winds, so check forecasts. Fuel pier available.

Baska
13
Day 13

Senj → Baška (Krk)

A rewarding 18-nautical-mile passage southwest from Senj brings you back to the island of Krk, and the picturesque, well-protected harbour of Baška. The approach offers dramatic views of the Velebit mountains and the island's southeastern flank, often swept by the bura, so a morning departure is advised for a smoother run. Baška's deep crescent bay, framed by the steep slopes of Velebit and the gentle hills of Krk, offers excellent shelter. Drop anchor or stern-to in the town harbour, then head ashore to explore the narrow stone lanes of the old town, leading to the historic Church of St. Lucy. For an afternoon adventure, hike or rent an e-bike to the 'Moon Plateau', a karstic landscape above Baška reminiscent of lunar terrain, where ancient Glagolitic inscriptions tell tales of early Croatian literacy. Afterwards, cool off with a swim at Vela Plaža, Baška's famous pebbled beach, before sundowners. Evenings in Baška often revolve around the local lamb, slow-roasted with wild rosemary and sea salt, a tradition perfected in konobas like Cicibela or Bag in the old town. The air carries the scent of pine resin and the distant murmur of the Adriatic, a fitting end to a memorable day.

Things to do

Hike the "Moon Plateau" above Baška for Glagolitic insights

Swim at Vela Plaža, Baška's expansive pebbled beach

Dine on local lamb and rosemary at Konoba Cicibela

Explore Baška's old town and the Church of St. Lucy

Mooring tip

Baška harbour offers stern-to mooring; anchor in 5-8m of sand/mud outside the main harbour for good holding. Fuel available at the town pier.

Rab
14
Day 14

Baška → Punat

The final passage charts a gentle ten-nautical-mile course from Baška, tracing the rugged southern coastline of Krk island before turning north into the Punat channel. This offers a last opportunity to appreciate the dramatic karst landscapes and the scent of pine resin carried on the breeze. Consider a final swim stop in a quiet bay near Stara Baška, where clear waters invite a refreshing dip before the return to base. As you approach Punat, the modern ACI Marina provides ample stern-to mooring, a familiar sight after a week exploring the Adriatic. Fuel up at the dedicated pier, then enjoy a final evening ashore. A glass of crisp, local Žlahtina wine, cultivated in the Vrbnik fields nearby, provides a fitting toast to the voyage, with the limestone ridges of Krk gilded by the setting sun.

Things to do

Enjoy a final swim in a quiet cove near Stara Baška

Fuel up at ACI Marina Punat's dedicated pier

Savour a glass of local Žlahtina wine ashore

Watch the sunset over the Kvarner Gulf from Punat

Mooring tip

ACI Marina Punat offers stern-to berths with lazy-lines; book ahead. Fuel pier available.

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