The islands of Zadar archipelago are ideal for vacationers in search of cozy hidden coves, pristine nature and meditative island energy
Unveiling Ugljan’s Island Charm
Connected by the Ždrelac bridge, Ugljan and Pašman share not only the quiet energy of places spared of mass tourism, but also form a natural breakwater of the Zadar coast. These two green islands whose highest points don’t exceed 300 m stretch parallel to the mainland and are only a few miles away from the large marinas in Zadar, Sukošan and Biograd. Their very proximity to the marinas makes them such a popular choice for beginning or ending a cruise around the Zadar archipelago and the magnificent Kornati National Park.
Charter a Yacht and Explore Ugljan
The eastern shores of these islands, facing the mainland, feel the power of the bora, mistral and tramuntana, which can get pretty strong in the Zadar and Pašman channels, but will not threaten with high waves. These shores are dotted with a handful of small villages and towns, while the opposite sides of the island, facing the magical Kornati Islands and other island pearls of the Zadar water area, brim with coves and natural shelters, and are a true paradise for those who just want to drop their anchor an relax, and the final one touches the strait of Rivne in the west.
Ugljan: Your Guide to Marinas and Anchoring
On the eastern shores of the island of Ugljan, there are two marinas; Marina Olive Island and Marina Preko, while the neighboring Pašman is better suited for yachts looking to drop anchors.
Marina Olive Island
In the largest bay on the eastern shore of Ugljan, Sutomišćica, lies Marina Olive Island. This family marina has won the award for the best small marina in Croatia three for years in a row. It is protected from all winds, and only mildly inconvenient during powerful bora. Guests can relax by the pool, on the beach or on the terrace enjoying a fantastic view, while kids will love the playground. The marina restaurant, Olive Garden, charms with a large menu suited for every palate.
Marina Preko
Luka Preko, with its three distinct parts, offers everything that boaters need. Local boats are moored in the northern port, facing the islet of Galovac, while the southern port hosts the ferry dock and the fuel pump. The central port, where the Preko marina is located, is protected from all winds, except for strong bora. In Preko, the administrative heart of Ugljan, you will find everything you need: from maintenance shops and stores, as well as a police station, harbor master, doctors and veterinarians, a post office, a gas station, restaurants, bars, shops and markets.
Picturesque Bays of Ugljan: Find Your Perfect Cove
On the northwestern side of Ugljan, there are several coves offering nice anchoring spots. The old town of Muline is located in a wide open bay well protected from southerly winds and the best place to drop the anchor is the southern part of the bay, which is uninhabited and surrounded by pine forest. Buoys are anchored there at depths of five to 10 meters. In the very town port, several boats can be moored at the pier (depth 2.5 m), and the local tavern Kažot is beloved among boaters.
Prtljug bay
The sunset in Muline is charming, so don’t miss it, just keep in mind that this cove does not provide safe shelter during a stronger mistral or tramuntana. In that case, look for peace the nearby uninhabited bay of Pavlešina or, if you have the time, sail another two miles southwest to Prtljug bay.
Prtljug Bay will provide you with a meditative refuge, especially if you drop your anchor in its uninhabited northwestern arm. At less than seven meters of depth, the anchor holds very well, and this part of the bay offers excellent shelter from the western and northern winds.
The north-eastern side is dotted with old fishing warehouses converted into vacation homes, and stone piers to tie your tender. Sail under the hill of St. Mihovil and the eponymous fortress built in the 13th century, with a tall transmitter as a good landmark during navigation, to explore the southwestern coast of the island of Ugljan.
Sandy Sabušica bay
Lamjana Vela is not interesting for leisure boaters, as it hosts a shipyard and is a busy fishing port, while the neighboring Lamjana Mala is a nice place to spend the night. At the very entrance, along the northwest coast, there is a fish farm, and new weekend homes dot the coast all the way down the bay. The depth here is 8 meter or less, and there are buoys.
If you’re looking for solitude, drop your anchor anywhere along the uninhabited northeastern shores of Lamjana Mala, but with southerly wind or when there’s a storm coming, look for shelter in Sabušica bay, a mile and a half away. All the lovers of picigin will find this cove’s shallow water and sandy bottom perfect for enjoying this Dalmatian ball game.
Text Josipa Vlahović Cikatić
Photos Boris Kačan
