Sibenik

All there is to know about Šibenik

Šibenik is a city located in a picturesque, indented bay in which River Krka enters the sea. Šibenik together with Knin County consists of 242 islands, islets and reefs and the most numerous of all of them are the Kornati Islands.

The town is one of the oldest Dalmatian towns in Croatia and it is the capital and the cultural, educational and administrative center of the Šibenik and Knin County. The first mention of Šibenik was found in 1066 in the grant of Petar Krešimir IV. so it is also called Krešimir's city. In 2018. distinguished Britain newspaper The Guardian declared Šibenik the best city to live by the sea in the whole southern Europe, which says a lot.

Sibenik gallery

One of its well known architectural site is Gothic-Renaissance Cathedral of St. James which offers a sight into city’s rich history and tradition. The Cathedral is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000. It the architecture of this masterpiece it is clearly seen influence of Northern Italy and Tuscany Dalmatia artistic challenges incorporated into stone.

It even had its famous TV moment as Iron Bank site for the Game of Thrones series, because of which it is now a must see stop for all fans.

No not miss to visit numerous festivals on the islands in Šibenik region in order to experience classic Mediterranean fine food and wine of this area. Some of the local tradition that you will be able to participate in or just look at, will be a glimpse through time. They will show you how ancients used to live and enjoy summer in this beautiful region.

Suggested sailing route from Šibenik

Following text should be considered as a “idea generator” since safe navigation depends on skippers experience and weather conditions which we cannot predict, some of the recommended swimming spots and ports are to be avoided in certain conditions. If not experienced enough you should hire a professional skipper!

Croatian summer wind “maestral” is a thermic wind caused by difference in temperature it is getting stronger as the sun rises and vice versa, so most of the time you have calm night (if not forecasted otherwise) .

Vodice - Vodice Sailing route (Vis, 7 days)

Day 1: Vodice - Primošten

Distance -11nm

Well protected port, tel. +385 91 522 2800/ +385 91 795 7620

Buoy and anchor area inside the bay (open to W). Small traditional village built on peninsula, we recommend taking a walk to center of the village and visiting one of the local cousin restaurants!

SWIMMING BRAKES: MAGARNA BAY (ISLAND ZLARIN)

Day 2: Primošten - Stomorska (Island Šolta)

Distance - 25NM

Well protected from all but NE

Berth or anchor (tel.+38521658200)

Small Dalmatian village of Stomorska has a rich culture of wine and olive oil production. So we recommend visiting family hospitality “ Kaštelanac “ where you will get to taste few sorts of their olive oil and wine, followed with traditional platter and daily caught fish! (Tel. +385 98 194 66 71)

*Nice cocktail bar in front of anchorage area with pontoon for your dinghy!

SWIMMING BRAKE: BLUE LAGOON BAY OF KRKNJAŠI (ISLAND DRVENIK VELI)

Day 3: Stomorska - Starigrad (Hvar)

Distance -16NM

Well protected from all winds!

Port of Starigrad (eng. Old town) is 2400 years old village! Moorings (with electricity and water) on old town pier (starboard when entering the port), and new pier (port). Few buoys in-between. Alongside berthing possible on the “ L shaped” pier left of the bay entrance (Hotel owned, without electricity or water). Buoy anchorage “Tiha” bay is well protected anchorage but 3NM away from old town.

*Dinner recommendation: Restaurant “Pineta” (tel. +385 91 505 3672)

*Optional activity: Visiting town of Hvar, Sunset drink on Spanish fortress, followed by drinks at “Kiwa“ bar (taxi tel. +385 91 355 5553)

*Swimming brake on Golden horn (Bol - Brač) will make this 25NM and not 16 but its one of the top attractions in Adriatic sea!

SWIMMING BRAKE: FAMOUS BEACH ZLATNI RAT (BRAČ ISLAND)

Day 4: Starigrad - Vis

Distance - 22NM

Well protected from all but NE wind (Bura)

Moorings and buoys

Truly unique island experience since Vis was mainly a military island, while locals where fisherman or field workers. That being said, we recommend you taking a military tour (tel. +385 91 340 95 93) that will take you around island showing you the best that the island has to offer!

* Dinner recommendations: Restaurant “Pojoda” / Buffet “VIS”

*We recommend arriving before 16:00h as port gets full in mid season!

SWIMMING BRAKE: BAY OF ROGACIC (MILITARY SUBMARINE TUNNEL)

Day 5: Vis - Zlarin

Distance - 46NM

Well protected from all but N quadrant winds

Moorings and buoys

Zlarin is the island of red coral, it has the longest island pier on the Adriatic! We recommend you visiting local museum and coral shop “Zlarinka” .

* Dinner recommendations: Restaurant “ Aldura “ (tel + 385 91 175 5975) / Tavern “Prslika” (tel. +385 99 691 7026)

SWIMMING BRAKE: PRVIĆ LUKA (FAUST VRANČIĆ BIRTH PLACE)

Day 6: Zlarin - Skradin

Distance - 12NM

Well protected from all winds!

Moorings (old town and ACI Marina) and buoys

Sailing through Krka river canyon is an amazing experience! From Skradin you can jump aboard a tourist ferry that will take you to Krka Falls.

* Dinner recomendation: Restaurant “Skala” (tel. +385 95 884 5801)

BRAKE: FRESH MUSSELS AND OYSTERS ALONG THE WAY (RIGHT BEFORE THE ŠIBENIK BRIDGE, ON STARBOARD SIDE OF CANYON)

Day 7: Skradin - Vodice

Distance - 10NM

Well protected from all winds!

Vodice - Vodice Sailing Route (Kornati, 7 Days)

Day 1: Vodice - Skradin

Arrival to the base at ACI Marina Vodice

Check-in procedure, supplying and accommodation on board the yacht

Sailing to Skradin through the mouth of river Krka and its canyon

Overnight stay at Skradin

Day 2: Skradin - Islands Zlarin / Prvić

Visit to Krka National Park waterfalls system; by tourist boat or bicycle

Leaving Skradin and river Krka

Sailing to islands of Šibenik archipelago

Overnight stay at Zlarin - moorings in the port or buoys;

or at Prvić luka - moorings in the port or buoys

Day 3: Islands Zlarin / Prvić - Kornati

Leaving islands and sailing NW towards Kornati National Park archipelago

Swim / snorkeling break at one of Kornati's hidden bays

Overnight stay at ACI marina Piškera or at one of authentic Kornati's taverns (konoba). Mooring included in the price of the dinner

Day 4: Kornati - Murter

Leaving Kornati and sailing SE towards Murter island

Swim / snorkeling break at islet Vrgada; or at one of the hidden bays/coves NW off Murter town

Overnight stay at the marina Hramina in Murter town; or sailing to SE end of Murter and overnight stay at ACI marina Jezera

Day 5: Murter - Žirje / Kaprije

Leaving Murter and sailing S towards islands Žirje / Kaprije

Swim / snorkeling break at one of the hidden bays in the area

Overnight stay at port Muna (Žirje) or other bay at the anchor or buoy; or Kaprije port or other bay at the anchor or buoy

Day 6: Žirje / Kaprije - Rogoznica

Leaving Žirje / Kaprije and sailing SE towards the mainland

Swim / snorkeling break under way, at one of the hidden bays on the islands of the archipelago

Overnight stay at Rogoznica: marina Frapa (moorings or anchor / buoy in the bay(s) SE from the marina

Day 7: Rogoznica - Vodice

Leaving Rogoznica and sailing NW alongside the coast

Swim / snorkeling break at the SE side of island Zlarin or bays at or around island Krapanj

Comeback to the base at ACI MARINA VODICE before 18:00

Overnight stay at the base

Check-out procedure up to 08:30 the next morning

Sudden summer storm “NEVERA” often will not be forecasted, but it can be predicted if you observe the horizon. Thunders forming a “front” and coming from W/NW/N with sudden sea level rise (tide) are almost certain sign of Nevera. It can pick up to 70kts winds (W/NW/N) although it doesn't last more than one hour it can cause serious damage to your yacht and put your life in danger!

Sailing conditions for Šibenik region charter

Šibenik region is one of the most popular region for sailing because of its vicinity to Kornati archipelago with Kornati National Park. During the sailing you will be able to explore and relax in one of its numerous bays that are ideal for swimming or snorkeling or even spend the night under the stars.

Perfect sailing months are from April to October which is quite wide period to choose from. Only difference is that July and August are mostly crowded months with hottest temperatures of the air and water. Equally beautiful and war but less crowded are April, May, June, September and October.

There are eight dominant winds that blow in the Adriatic Sea, and some of them are perfect if you like to turn down the engines and use their power to set sails. It is easy o recognize them according to clouds that form on the sky. On of the most dangerous storms that can appear on the Adriatic 3-4 times a months is a strong storm called Neverin. Fortunately this storm lasts only half an hour but you should monitor weather forecast so you can quickly find a shelter for your boat at crew members.
Because of the fact that Dalmatia has indented coast it will be easy to find safe shelter fast.

Since Dalmatia has Mediterranean climate the air temperature during the summer can rise above 30 °C, while the sea temperature is max 25 °C which will enable you to take a cooling swim during your sailing holidays.

How to reach Šibenik?

There are many ways by which you can get to the hypnotic city of Šibenik, but we're going to list down only two most popular ones:

By plane

The Dalmatia has two main airports. The first airport is in the famous city of Split (the second-largest city in Croatia), and the other one is in Zadar. To get to Šibenik, you first have to land in one of these airports, and from there, you'd need to take a bus.

Zadar airport is 70 km from Šibenik while Split airport is approximately 50 km.

During the season the coast is connected by airplanes with many destinations from Austria, France, Germany, Italy and the UK. In cooperation with partners, local airline provider enables its passengers to travel to destinations all around of the world.

By car

If you are coming through Zagreb you will have to take A1 highway which connects Croatia’s capital with all Dalmatian cities. Parallel with this road there is also state road that you can use which does not have tolls – Lika highway (D1) which runs all the way to Split.

If you are coming through Rijeka that you should use A7 which will connect to A1 in Bosiljevo. From there you will continue your journey to Šibenik.

Check in / Check out

Check-in

Saturday from 17:00 till Sunday 11:00.

Check-out

Friday from 15:00 till Saturday 8:30 with obligatory return on Friday till 18:00.

Early check-in (limited number):

Gives you opportunity for boarding between 13 and 14 h.

Documents Required

• Passport or Identity card
• Sailing licence and VHF licence
• Crew list sent few weeks before the charter with estimated time of arrival

Optional Extras

• early check-in (limited number)
• outboard engine
• spinnaker / gennaker (depending on the boat)
• generator
• extra bedlinen
• towels / beach towels
• stand up paddle
• safety net
• extra cleaning
• pet charge
• permit for international waters (not available for all yachts)

Credit Cards

• Deposit payable in cash or credit card
• Credit cards: Mastercard, Maestro, Visa

Restaurants to enjoy in Šibenik

Many restaurants in Šibenik offer delicious food. Some of the most popular ones are:

• Tinel Restaurant
• Kanela Restaurant
• Konoba Vinko
• Gradska vijećnica Restaurant
• Medulić Coffee Bar - Restaurant
• Admiral Restaurant

Historical places to visit in Šibenik

St. James Cathedral

St. James Cathedral is one of the most famous sites that you can visit in Šibenik due to its historical value. The Cathedral of St. James was built between the years 1431 – 1536. The most impressive thing about this cathedral is that it is completely made up of stone which looks enthralling.

The dome and the vaulting of the St. James Cathedral are done using exceptional construction techniques. These techniques are still praised by many engineers, and people can't believe that this was built in the 16th century, which makes the Cathedral a true piece of art.

In addition to this, 71 human faces are carved in this cathedral, which makes this cathedral a unique piece of Gothic art.

St.Michael's Fortress

St. Michael's Fortress is another one of the most important historical sites that people can visit in Šibenik. The fortress of St. Michael is situated on a hill at the height of 70m, and this fortress was used as a defensive wall in the primitive years. Tourists can also enjoy a great view of Šibenik bay from the top of the fortress.

Old City Hall

While visiting Šibenik, tourists should pay a visit to the famous Old City Hall. Previously, the Old City Hall consisted of 3 separate buildings, but now all of these buildings are merged, and this is where all the city meetings are held.

Islands to visit around Sibenik

There are many famous islands and cities that you can visit from Šibenik. Some of the most enthralling ones are:

Island Prvić

This small Adriatic island is covered with evergreen shrubs and beautiful vineyards. It is a home to many Croatian fishermen and farmers. The weather on this island is classic Mediterranean which means that during the summer it will be hot and dry.
Along the island are only two villages; Luka and Sepurine.

Island Šolta

You can also visit Island Solta from Šibenik. The island has some fascinating beaches with calm turquoise waters that will leave you in awe.

Some of the famous bays include:

• Tatinja Bay
• Zaglav Bay
• Šešula Bay
• Senjska Bay

By spending time in one of the bays, you will make your sailing holidays (vacation) in Šibenik memorable.

Island Hvar

Island Hvar is another island that you can visit from Šibenik with our sailing charter. Hvar island has many historical sites and natural monuments.

The climate of the island is the Mediterranean with hot and dry summers and wet winters. The island is surrounded by lush green nature and is popular for its wild nightlife.

Island Vis

The island of Vis is famous for its mesmerizing natural beauty. The island is covered with lush green, tall palm, and carob trees. The beaches have shallow turquoise waters.

By reaching Šibenik you will be able to visit some of the local destinations that show you how diverse Dalmatia is.

• Etnoland – theme park with unique mix of hiystory, tradition and culture of Dalmatian hinterland. This park is a faithful reconstruction of typical life in villages from this area.
• Dalmatia Aquapark – for all water fans this park will be a perfect way how to spend hot summer day while in Šibenik region. You will be able to enjoy slides, sprinklers, waterfalls etc.
• Bungee jumping – the name says it all. If you want to feel adrenaline rush while jumping from 40-meter high Šibenik bridge, this should be on your list.
• Aquarium Terrarium – visit to this attraction will give you a glimpse in the life of the Adriatic Sea. This is more suitable for family with children.
• Falconry Center – it is located in the Mediterranean wilderness but easy to reach from Šibenik town. Visit to this location will give you an opportunity to take a falconry course.