Kornati

Kornati is one of the most distinctive cruising grounds in the Adriatic, a dense scatter of bare limestone islands and reefs stretching across protected waters between Šibenik and Zadar. The national park, established in 1980, covers 89 of those islands, with the broader cruising area extending north to Dugi Otok and the sheltered waters of Telašćica. The landscape is stark and largely uninhabited, with little fresh water or shade ashore, but the clarity of the sea and the drama of the island scenery draw a large number of cruising yachts through the summer months.

Kornati National Park covers 89 islands, islets, and reefs, the majority of which are uninhabited. A park permit is required to cruise within the boundary and is available from authorised sellers before entering the park.

Immediately to the north, Telašćica is a large natural bay on the southeastern tip of Dugi Otok. The outer seaward face of the island rises in cliffs known locally as the stene, reaching 161 metres at their highest point. Several mooring fields are available within the bay, with trails ashore for those wanting to explore on foot.

The Lighthouse Veli Rat stands on the northwestern tip of Dugi Otok, one of the tallest lighthouses on the Adriatic. Some visitors report the keeper allowing them to climb to the top to take in the views.

Near the island of Žut, the wheelhouse of the shallow wreck Michele breaks the surface, making it an interesting site for snorkelling.

A permit is required to enter Kornati National Park waters and should be purchased before arrival. The outer islands are exposed to the open Adriatic and the seaward passages carry swell in unsettled weather. The Bora can arrive quickly in this area and reaches considerable strength between the islands. Fresh water and provisions are not available within the park.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Otok Maman (Rab) ★ 5.0 Rab Anchorage provides effective protection with good holding on sand bottom. Visitors noted its peaceful atmosphere and availability of food options, including a well-reviewed local restaurant. Clean and clear water enhances possibilities for swimming and paddleboarding.
	Uvala Luka Jazi ★ 4.8 Molat A large bay provides anchorage with sandy bottom, suitable for depths of 6-12 m. It is well protected, though care is advised due to variable winds. Visitors can access a nearby village by dinghy.
	Uvala Lovka ★ 4.7 Dugi Otok Anchoring in this bay is noted for its sandy bottom and good holding at depths between 4 and 8 meters. The environment is generally quiet, with little to no charter yacht activity, making it a suitable spot for protection against southern winds.
	Uvala Podgarbe (Brguljski Z) (Molat) ★ 4.5 Molat A sheltered anchorage allows for easy anchoring on sand, with reports of good holding. Some review mentions possible swell from nearby ferries, while cell reception may be affected by weather conditions. Visitors appreciated the seclusion and overall setting.
	Juzna Luka ★ 4.4 Ugljan Anchoring is possible in a sandy bay with depths around 4 to 6 meters. Visitors reported protection from winds and ease of access to the nearby village with basics available. Noise from beach parties may occur, impacting night-time experiences.
	Luka Jazi (Molat) ★ 4.3 Molat Accessing the anchorage is straightforward, with sandy bottoms providing good holding. Expect a serene environment with ample space for anchoring. Facilities nearby include a small bakery and dining options within walking distance.
	Bokašin bay ★ 4.3 Dugi Otok The anchorage at Bokašin bay provides favorable conditions for holding, particularly in sandy areas at depths between 5 and 12 meters. Visitors reported protection from winds, good visibility underwater, and nearby snorkeling opportunities. Multiple boats also share the area, influencing usage patterns.
	Brgulje ★ 4.3 Molat Anchoring is possible in 6 meters with good holding on a sandy bottom. The area offers beach access and is quiet and calm, ideal for swimming and water activities. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
	Muline ★ 4.0 Ugljan Anchoring conditions are favorable with anchorage available in depths of 5 to 6 meters on sand. The bay is spacious, though traffic can lead to notable waves. While it is busy with charter boats, quieter periods may be experienced in autumn.
	Free Anchorage Zadar ★ 4.0 Anchorage is well-protected and offers good holding with mud bottom. Proximity to town enhances accessibility, featuring dining options like a Japanese restaurant. Some noise from the road and mosquitoes may exist, with anchoring space limited.

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Marinas

	Marina Betina ★ 4.5 Murter The marina features friendly staff and clean, spacious facilities. It is conveniently located within walking distance to town and has decent connections for water and power. Reviews highlight the cleanliness of the showers and overall decent services.
	Marina Veli Rat ★ 4.3 Dugi Otok A mix of sheltered anchorage and remote beauty characterizes the marina. Visitors found the staff knowledgeable, though interactions could be loud. Facilities include reasonable grocery options and nearby dining with varied payment methods, though some amenities may require improvements.
	Olive Island Marina ★ 4.3 Ugljan This marina features clean toilets and showers, along with a pool. The restaurant is noted for serving surprisingly good pizza. Visitors also appreciate the availability of free water and electricity.
	Marina Hramina ★ 3.3 Murter The marina features clean facilities and a hotel, accommodating a 45 ft. monohull for 137.00 EUR. It is noted for its luxury and high costs. Accessibility to a nearby village is mentioned, along with considerations for nearby peer services.

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Moorings

	Telašćica National Park Moorings ★ 4.8 Dugi Otok Moorings are available in a protected bay, with options for both buoyage and anchorage. The area is noted for hiking opportunities and impressive cliff views. Prices vary by season, with costs increasing after May.
	Uvala Sipnate, Kornat ★ 4.0 Kornat Islands The anchorage near the mooring buoys offers good holding in sand and mud. Visitors experience a tranquil and picturesque environment with options for dining, such as seafood at Konoba Šoleta, which features friendly service.
	Sv. Andrija bay ★ 3.3 Murter In May 2023, no mooring buoys were available. A later Review highlights an effective mooring service with a friendly manager providing helpful local tips. Visitor experiences indicate safety concerns during strong winds, with one instance of drifting towards rocks without assistance.

Useful yacht clearance links:

There are currently too few reports on yacht clearance for this part of Croatia. If you clear in here, please add any missing clearance markers and a short review to help others.