Quaint and colorful, some places ensure the heart, and Skradin is one such destination. This stashed-away Croatian gem can simply be seen as a passing place for those en route to the Krka National Park, but secluded Skradin is a destination in its own right. Pastel-painted homes sit pretty on the waterfront, a peaceful riverside marina, cobbled streets, and locally made, wonderful wine all set a magical mise en scene for this glorious gateway town. While most will sail straight through, eager to hit the bigger known attractions that populate the national park, a handful of millionaires (including Bill Gates) have taken quite the shine to Skradin. Be sure to duck into the Krka National Park, where waterfalls thunder and turquoise swimming holes entice.
Zadar is one of the must-see spots on the Dalmatian Coast and is famed for its Roman and Venetian ruins. This vibrant city seamlessly blends the old and the new, from buzzing bars to medieval churches, modern art, and ancient architecture. Charter guests should wander the old town, climb the city walls, walk through the Land Gate and the Sea Gate, and admire the Sun Salutation - an urban art installation created by architect Nikola Bašic. Listen to the Sea Organ, duck into many of the beautiful churches, and dine on local lamb and monkfish washed down with the famous maraska liquor.
The meaning behind the name of Dugi Otok is Long Island, as this sandy finger reaches out into the sea for a staggering 43km despite being only a few kilometers wide. This is one of the largest islands in the Zadar area, yet it maintains every inch of its natural non-mass tourism charm. Scattered with 12 different villages, there is plenty to see on Dugi. The southern swathe of the island is all rolling hills and rising cliffs, and, in the north, you will find tangled vineyards and sleepy pastures Dugi boasts no shortage of culture with its gothic churches and karstic caves. Dugi is close to the Telašćica Bay National Park where the winds fail to reach, making it a haven for sailors and swimmers. Endless bays, reefs, and shaded pines against a backdrop of Mediterranean flora and fauna immerse you in a world of green, gold, and blue.
An uninhabited low-lying rocky island just off the coast of Croatia, Zut is one of the 147 Kornati Islands. While some islands are splashed in verdant green, Zut finds it’s epic splendor in its barren grace. Scattered with just a few fisherman cottages scattered among the gorse. There are no sandy beaches but rocky shorelines where the gold glitters against the sparkling blue sea. There are no roads here and the best way to explore is on foot or by kayak, taking time to discover local flora and paddle into dreamy inlets. Despite the lack of civilization, there are a couple of restaurants on this remote island. Zut is perfect for those who want to soak up sheer peace, catch golden yolk sunsets, and sip ice cold beer on the deck of their yacht.
Affectionately known as the gateway to the Kornati National Park, Murter is a verdant island in the Dalmatian region of Croatia. Connected to the mainland by drawbridge, this enchanting islet is home to Murter town itself, where a picturesque harbour bustles with both traditionally crafted wooden sailboats and superyachts alike. A vibrant destination of pine-strewn coves and blissful beaches that give way to the azure waters of the Adriatic, the island also plays host to some of Croatia’s most popular festivals and discotheques. Whilst there are countless tiny islets strewn across the seas in this vicinity, the ease of access onto the mainland makes Murter an ideal base for exploring some of Croatia’s most stunning national parks such as Krka and Plitvice. The island itself also has no end of attractions, with ancient churches, fascinating museums, unparalleled diving and countless konobas serving Dalmatian delicacies.
Sibenik is the gateway to the Kornati Islands and is laden with sights. Not only does Sibenik boast 2 UNESCO World Heritage sites, but it's also where the Krka River flows into the Adriatic and is a favored filming spot for Game of Thrones. Stone walls, The Gothic and Renaissance-styled St James Cathedral, and the St Nicholas Fortress all add to the atmosphere. Wander the old town with its boutique shops and golden stone architecture, explore the medieval Meditteranean gardens, eat gelato as you walk along the promenade, indulge in Game of Thrones tours if you are a fan, and make the most of its blissful beaches.