Best Sailing Routes from Vodice, Croatia: Explore Kornati, Žirje, and More

Why Choose Vodice for a Sailing Holiday?

Vodice, known as a vibrant and award-winning "tourist flower" of Croatia, has long been a favorite among both land-based travelers and sailing enthusiasts. Nestled along the Dalmatian coast, Vodice offers the perfect mix of modern marina infrastructure, lively entertainment, and close proximity to some of Croatia's most stunning archipelagos.

Whether you're interested in discovering hidden coves, sampling Dalmatian cuisine, or venturing through national parks, Vodice provides an exceptional starting point for your sailing holiday.

ACI Marina Vodice: Your Starting Point

The ACI Marina Vodice is located on the northeastern side of Vodice harbor and operates year-round. It features 320 sea berths and 80 land berths, each equipped with water and electricity. The marina is well-supplied with essentials: a supermarket, coffee bar, reception, showers, toilets, and nearby dining spots. Its central location allows for easy access to town amenities and seamless logistics for yacht charters.

Vodice is also easily accessible via international airports in Zadar and Split, both approximately an hour away.

Best Sailing Routes from Vodice

1. Kornati Archipelago

Often dubbed the "stone pearls of the Mediterranean," the Kornati islands form one of Croatia's most iconic sailing destinations. This national park comprises 89 islands, islets, reefs, and cliffs and offers a surreal landscape of rocky terrain, crown-shaped cliffs, and pristine waters.

Highlights:

• Ideal for island-hopping due to the compact layout
• Opportunities to snorkel, hike, and photograph panoramic viewpoints
• Marine biodiversity with over 850 marine species
• Traditional dry-stone walls and olive groves

Sailing Tip: Anchor in the bays of Levrnaka or Vrulje. Permits are required to enter the national park.

2. Ravni Zakan

Located at the southern entrance to Kornati National Park, Ravni Zakan is an uninhabited island offering peace and privacy. It's a favored stop for those seeking to relax after an active day of sailing.

Why Visit:

• Excellent anchorage protected from most winds
• On-island restaurant ideal for romantic dinners or team retreats
• Ideal mid-point when sailing deeper into Kornati

Sailing Tip: Book ahead during high season if you plan to dine at the island’s restaurant.

3. Žirje Island

Situated 11 miles southwest of Šibenik and just southeast of Kornati, Žirje is the largest island in the local chain. It's less crowded than other destinations and offers both cultural and natural attractions.

Highlights:

• Byzantine fortress ruins above Vela Stupica Bay
• Agriculture-driven local culture (grapes, olives, plums)
• Crystal-clear waters and buoy-lined anchorage

Sailing Tip: Vela Stupica Bay is well-protected from most winds except the Jugo (southeast wind). Head to the ridge-top ruins for a rewarding panoramic view.

4. Primošten

Roughly 12 miles south of Šibenik, Primošten is a historic coastal town originally built on an island. Today, it’s connected to the mainland by a causeway and serves as a charming cultural stop for sailors.

Why It Stands Out:

• Medieval lanes leading to a prominent hilltop church
• Local wine and seafood specialties
• Easy mooring on the town pier or nearby Marina Kremik (400 berths)

Sailing Tip: Avoid docking here in strong southwest winds. Marina Kremik, 2 miles SSE, provides better protection.

Additional Destinations Within Reach

• Šibenik Archipelago: Hundreds of smaller islands perfect for day sailing
• Krka National Park: Accessible via the Krka River; ideal for a day trip inland to see waterfalls

Planning Your Sailing Itinerary from Vodice

Whether you're chartering with or without a skipper, Vodice offers a range of itinerary options:

• 3-day itinerary: Vodice → Kornati → Ravni Zakan → Žirje → Vodice
• 7-day itinerary: Vodice → Šibenik Archipelago → Kornati NP → Levrnaka → Ravni Zakan → Žirje → Primošten → Vodice

Many charter companies based in Vodice offer flexible routes, personalized guides, and local sailing support.

Final Thoughts

Vodice isn’t just a picturesque coastal town, it’s a strategic and scenic launchpad for exploring some of Croatia’s most iconic sailing destinations. With world-class marina facilities, close access to national parks, and an endless array of islands, Vodice is your gateway to a memorable sailing adventure.

Whether you're planning a short island-hopping escape or an extended yacht charter, sailing from Vodice will reward you with unforgettable views, rich cultural stops, and some of the best sailing routes in Croatia.