Biograd Sailing Itineraries - The Best Way To Croatia's National Parks

A brief introduction to Biograd

Biograd na Moru, often referred to as Biograd, is a small coastal town located in central Dalmatia. The town is nestled between two big Croatian coastal cities, sitting 30 km south of Zadar and about 50 km north of Šibenik. Biograd sits in the Pašman bay, just opposite the island of Pašman. Due to its location and proximity to several national and nature parks, Biograd has developed a robust nautical infrastructure. Following the latest expansions and upgrades, the Kornati Marina in Biograd now boasts 805 berths, out of which 70 are dry berths. The marina is also a proud recipient of the Blue Flag. A symbol of its high standard in the protection of the sea and coastline around it. It is the 6th year in a row that the award has been received. Biograd is a perfect starting location for exploring some of the most beautiful spots on the Croatian coast and an ideal start of an unforgettable sailing holiday. 

Best way to get to Biograd

The fastest way to reach Biograd is by flying to Zadar Airport, located some 25 km north of the town of Biograd. There are plenty of direct flights from all around Europe to Zadar Airport, mainly during the summer months. Biograd is also easily reachable by car or bus, with several daily bus departures from other Croatian cities like Zagreb, Rijeka and Split.  

Try one of these spectacular Biograd itinerary options

Located in the near vicinity of the Kornati National Park, Biograd is an ideal starting location for visiting some of Croatia’s most beautiful destinations. Nearby islands of Pašman, Ugljan, Dugi Otok and Murter all offer plenty of sunshine, untouched natural beauty, stunning beaches and lots of fun summer activities for the whole family. 

Option 1- The northern route

Total sail distance: 65 NM

Things to see and do: Visit the beautiful islands of central Dalmatia and enjoy summer activities in some of the most popular tourist destinations on the Croatian coast. Revel in the natural beauty of the Kornati islands and enjoy culinary delights in some of the best restaurants on the Adriatic.  

This route is perfect for: Groups of friends and families wanting to explore the beauty of Croatian islands and sailing enthusiasts wishing to experience the nautical paradise of the Kornati archipelago.    

Best time of year for sailing: From late April until the end of September.

Day 1: Mrljane

This small fishing village on the northern shore of the Pašman island has recently started shifting towards tourism. It is a perfect place to enjoy a day under the sun away from the crowds. A nearby underwater freshwater spring, located near the beach, cools the shallow waters and provides refreshment to all that come across its stream.  

Day 2: Kukljica

Kukljica, a picturesque tourist and fishermen’s village, is located on the southeast end of the island of Ugljan overlooking the island of Pašman. Kukljica is an unexpected source of culture with art exhibitions held during July and August as well as various concerts, theatre plays, poetry nights and festivals.

Day 3: Rivanj

Rivanj is a small island located between the island of Ugljan and Sestrunj. You could head over to the northeastern part of the islands where the bays of Dubrinka and Lokvina are located. These two bays are home to some beautiful beaches and perfect for some summer activities. 

Day 4: Sali

Leaving Rivanj, sail south to the island of Dugi Otok and the town of Sali. Here you can stock up and prepare for exploring the two gems of the Adriatic, the National Park Kornati and the Natural Park Telaščica. If you are looking for a spot for an afternoon swim, sail around the southern tip of the island and anchor in the magnificent Ćuščica bay.

Day 5: Kornati

Sail towards the northern tip of the Kornat island, the largest island of the Kornati archipelago. Spectacular views and natural beauty of the islands will open up quite an appetite, so be sure to stop at one of the restaurants scattered along the coast. One of the more popular destinations is the Mare restaurant on the island of Katina and the Suha Punta tavern on the island of Kornat. Make sure to obtain the tickets needed to enter the National Park, which can be bought online.

Day 6: Kornati 

Most of the day will be spent sailing along the southern coast of the Kornat island. There are plenty of coves along the coast where you can anchor and enjoy the crystal clear sea. The perfect way to end your visit to the Kornati National Park is a meal at the Opat tavern, located in a small bay on the southern tip of the island. The tavern has a capacity of 25 berths and offers delicious local seafood.  

Day 7: Sovinje

Before you head back to Biograd, make sure to stop at the Sovinje beach on the island of Pašman. Here you will find a beautiful sandy beach surrounded by pine trees. An ideal place for a last swim and snorkel before you end your journey.

Option 2 - The southern route

Total sail distance: 50 NM

Things to see and do: Visit the spectacular Kornati National Park and explore some lesser-known Croatian islands. Enjoy a cocktail or two at some of the more popular nightclubs on the island of Murter.

This route is perfect for: Groups of friends and families looking to experience the natural beauty of islands in central Dalmatia. Sailing enthusiasts will enjoy visiting one of the most popular sailing destinations in all of the Mediterranean.      

Best time of year for sailing: Mid-April to the end of September.

Day 1: Žižanj

The small island of Žižanj is located off the southeastern tip of the island of Pašman. This uninhabited island is a perfect spot for everyone looking for a bit of peace and quiet. There are several houses available for rent and a couple of restaurants on the island. 

Day 2: Žut

The island of Žut sits just north of the island of Kornat and is the second biggest island of the Kornati archipelago. The ACI Marina Žut is located in the westernmost part of the harbour of Žut and is a popular nautical base for those visiting the Kornati National Park. The marina offers 120 berths and is open from April 1st until the end of October. 

Day 3: Kornati

Spend the whole day sailing south along the coast of the island of Kornat and soak up the natural beauty of your surroundings. Take a break and anchor in the Stiniva bay where you can enjoy some delicious local food and wine.

Day 4: Murter

Murter is the largest settlement on the island of the same name, located 10 NM east from the Kornati islands. This is an ideal place to stock up before heading southeast. The small town of Tisno connects the island of Murter with the mainland via a small bridge. Lately, Tisno has been a popular destination among younger generations as it hosts several music festivals during the summer. 

Day 5: Tribunj

Tribunj is a charming little coastal settlement located near the popular tourist destination of Vodice. Here you can enjoy a vast selection of quality local seafood, in a more relaxed atmosphere. Tribunj also has a moderately sized marina with 240 berths and 150 dry berths.

Day 6: Prvić

Prvić is a small island in the Croatian part of the Adriatic Sea, situated in the Šibenik archipelago, about half a mile from the mainland. The whole island is car-free and is a safe haven for all looking to get away and enjoy some peace and quiet. The entire island is considered a cultural heritage and is under the protection of the Croatian Ministry of Culture.

Day 7: Drage

As you head back north towards Biograd, make sure to stop at Drage. Here you will find numerous pebble, rocky beaches and coves suitable for families with children. This former farming and fishing village is today a modern tourist destination with multiple campsites, restaurants and a rich selection of various summer activities.