Islands of Silence: Northern Dalmatia

Raw landscapes, crystalline seas, and the restorative power of the Adriatic

Introduction

Northern Dalmatia is a sailor’s dream — a coastline of ancient towns, quiet anchorages, and the wild beauty of the Kornati National Park. From Zadar’s Roman heart to remote isles where nature rules, this voyage blends history, seclusion, and the pristine waters of the Adriatic.

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Itinerary Overview

Total Distance: 74 nm | Average Daily Sailing: 2-3 hrs

A scenic harbor with boats docked along a stone pier, colorful buildings in the background, lush green trees, and a clear blue sky.

Day 1 — Zadar

Begin in Zadar, a vibrant port city where Roman ruins and Venetian walls frame lively squares. Stroll the marble streets to the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun installations, watch the sunset admired by Alfred Hitchcock, and savour a first taste of Adriatic charm.

A coastal town with white and beige buildings with red-tiled roofs, a tower, a harbor with boats, green trees, and mountains across a body of water under a blue sky.

Day 2 - Iz Veli

A peaceful fishing village on the island of Iž, Veli Iz is known for its pottery tradition and quiet beaches. Moor in the sheltered harbour and wander narrow stone lanes lined with fig trees. The relaxed rhythm offers an authentic glimpse of life in Dalmatia’s isles.

Aerial view of a small, curved cove with turquoise water, surrounded by rocky, shrub-covered hills. Three sailboats are anchored in the cove. In the background, a larger body of water and hilly terrain are visible.

Day 3 - Sali or Telašćica

On Dugi Otok, Sali is a lively village of fishermen, music festivals, and konobas. Nearby Telašćica Nature Park reveals soaring cliffs, saltwater Lake Mir, and walking trails scented with pine. Both offer a perfect blend of Dalmatian life and spectacular natural beauty.

Aerial view of a coastal town with white buildings and red roofs, a marina with boats, green hills, and a blue sea with islands in the distance under a clear sky.

Day 4 - Vrulje (Kornati)

Hidden in the Kornati archipelago, Vrulje is a tiny hamlet accessible only by sea. White-stone houses line a quiet bay where fishermen’s taverns serve simple, fresh fare. Surrounded by stark, sculptural islands, it feels like sailing into another world of tranquillity.

Aerial view of a marina with sailboats docked along piers, surrounded by coastal hills under a partly cloudy sky.

Day 5 - Piškera

Anchoring near Piškera places you in the heart of Kornati National Park. Once a base for fishermen, the island is now a pristine haven of crystalline waters and star-filled skies. Swim, hike, or simply soak up the untouched atmosphere of this extraordinary seascape.

A boat sailing in a large body of water surrounded by arid, hilly landscape with sparse vegetation.

Day 6 - Žut

Uninhabited by villages but dotted with summer taverns and olive groves, Žut is wild and serene. Its deep bays offer peaceful anchorages, while trails lead to viewpoints over the shimmering Kornati. With no cars and little electricity, life here is stripped back to pure nature.

Tourists walking near ancient stone building with a church and bell tower under a clear blue sky.

Day 7 - Zadar (Return)

Sail back to Zadar and revisit its lively waterfront. Climb the bell tower for sweeping views, shop for local crafts, or sip coffee on the ancient forum. Reflect on a voyage of wild islands, hidden coves, and timeless seafaring traditions unique to northern Dalmatia.

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Explore our yachts that brings this itinerary to life, or view the sailing route in more detail.

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Optional Onshore Experiences

Enhance your voyage with hand-picked experiences ashore, blending the region’s rich culture with its celebrated cuisine.

A lively street scene with tourists and locals walking, shopping, and sitting outside cafes in a European town, surrounded by colorful historic buildings under a clear blue sky.

Cultural Moments

  • Zadar Heritage: Explore Roman ruins and Venetian walls, climb the bell tower, and wander marble streets alive with history and Adriatic charm.

  • Iž Pottery: Visit traditional workshops on Iž, where artisans keep centuries-old pottery skills alive in a tranquil island setting.

  • Telašćica Trails: Hike among soaring cliffs and pine-scented paths around Lake Mir, discovering the wild beauty of Dugi Otok’s nature park.

Olive oil being poured from a bottle into a glass bowl on a wooden surface, with a jar of green olives and olive leaves nearby.

Cuisine Journeys

  • Vrulje Seafood: Dine in fishermen’s taverns serving the day’s catch, in a bay where white-stone houses meet the tranquillity of Kornati.

  • Žut Olive Oil: Taste golden oils pressed from island groves, a simple yet essential flavour of Dalmatian island life.

  • Zadar Markets: Sample prosciutto, cheeses, and delicacies in bustling markets, where the aromas of Dalmatia fill historic squares.

Elysian - Sailing Beyond Ordinary

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