Tucked away on the northern Dalmatian coast this ancient city was the capital of Dalmatia for many years and is steeped in history.
It boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage and modern attractions and its strategic location makes it perfect for a gulet charter to the famous Kornati Islands and the various national and nature parks that surround it.
Zadar's historical charm is also a major draw; the old town is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, ancient Roman ruins, and medieval architecture. Stroll along the city walls and immerse yourself in the rich history that surrounds you. Visit the Church of St. Donatus, a 9th-century masterpiece, or explore the Archaeological Museum to learn more about the city's past.
Zadar is an ancient city and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history dating back to Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian rule. Along the coast, you can discover numerous historical sites and cultural landmarks.
Zadar boasts a buzzing nightlife scene, with great bars, clubs, and restaurants where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and indulge in delicious local cuisine and drinks.
Zadar is the gateway to the stunning Kornati Islands, a national park of over 140 islands and islets in the Adriatic Sea. This sailing paradise boasts pristine waters, secluded coves, and rugged landscapes best explored on a gulet.
The waters around Zadar and the Kornati Islands are known for their favourable sailing conditions, with consistent winds and relatively calm seas, making them ideal destinations for both experienced and novice sailors.
From Zadar, you can easily access several stunning national parks, including the Paklenica National Park, known for its towering limestone cliffs and excellent hiking opportunities, and the Krka National Park, famous for its breathtaking waterfalls and natural pools.
Zadar is famous for its breathtaking sunsets - on seeing it, Alfred Hitchcock is reported to have said it was the most beautiful in the world.
Along with the Kornati Islands there is also easy access to numerous nearby islands like Dugi Otok and Pag.
Zadar and it's close proximity to the Kornati Islands means that you can escape the hustle and bustle of modern life on a gulet charter away from the crowds.
Visit the picturesque island of Dugi Otok, famous for its stunning beaches, including Saharun Beach, which has powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Take advantage of a visit to Telascica Nature Park on the island's southern end, known for its dramatic cliffs, saltwater lake, and pristine natural beauty.
Spend some time exploring the historic Old Town of Zadar, known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, medieval churches, and charming cobblestone streets. Be sure to visit the Sea Organ, an innovative art installation that produces mesmerising music using the natural rhythms of the sea.
Sail to Pag Island, famous for its lunar-like landscape, stunning salt pans, and delicious sheeps' milk cheese. Explore Pag's medieval architecture, visit local wineries and olive oil producers, and sample traditional Croatian cuisine at one of the island's many restaurants.
While not directly accessible by yacht, a short trip inland from Zadar brings you to Krka National Park. Marvel at the breathtaking waterfalls, explore walking trails through lush forests and take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Krka River.
Cruise to the historic city of Sibenik, known for its impressive UNESCO-listed St. James Cathedral, medieval fortresses, and charming waterfront promenade. Explore the narrow streets of the Old Town, visit the St. Michael's Fortress for panoramic views of the city, and enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants serving fresh seafood and Dalmatian specialities.
Located on the southern part of Dugi Otok island, the Telascica Nature Park is a natural wonder not to be missed. Sail to the park's stunning salt-water lake, hike along the cliffs, and admire the breathtaking landscapes.
Located north west of Zadar this car-free island has beautiful beaches and
a relaxed atmosphere.
Sail to the stunning Kornati National Park, a collection of over 100 islands and islets known for their rugged landscapes, crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. Explore hidden coves, snorkel in secluded bays, and hike to scenic viewpoints for panoramic views of the archipelago.
The season in Zadar runs from April to October, with July and August being the peak months with the highest temperatures and most visitors.
April to June and September to October are less busy, and the temperatures are lower, but they are perfect for those looking to get away for a quieter experience.
Monthly weather for the area *
| Avg. High Temp | Avg. Low Temp | Avg. Daily Rain (mm) | Avg. Wind Direction | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 12.2°C (54°F) | 5.9°C (43°F) | 2.1mm |  ESE |
| FEB | 11.8°C (53°F) | 3.5°C (38°F) | 1.6mm | E |
| MAR | 15.4°C (60°F) | 7.7°C (46°F) | 1.2mm | S |
| APR | 17.1°C (63°F) | 8.6°C (48°F) | 1.9mm | SSE |
| MAY | 23.0°C (73°F) | 14.6°C (58°F) | 3.8mm | SSW |
| JUN | 28.1°C (83°F) | 18.6°C (66°F) | 0.7mm | SW |
| JUL | 31.5°C (89°F) | 21.9°C (71°F) | 1.2mm | WSW |
| AUG | 30.5°C (87°F) | 20.9°C (70°F) | 0.6mm | WSW |
| SEP | 27.8°C (82°F) | 18.5°C (65°F) | 0.7mm | S |
| OCT | 23.5°C (74°F) | 16.0°C (61°F) | 1.5mm | S |
| NOV | 16.3°C (61°F) | 9.5°C (49°F) | 8.2mm | SSE |
| DEC | 13.8°C (57°F) | 7.1°C (45°F) | 2.1mm | ESE |
For Zadar, you can fly to Zadar Airport (ZAD), which has direct flights from the UK and European airports and is located 7 miles (11 km) from the town.
This is a well-served international airport, and visitors from the US and non-European visitors can pick up connecting flights from most European hubs.
The official language of Croatia is Croatian, and English is widely understood in tourist areas.
Croatia's official currency is the Croatian Kuna, abbreviated as HRK. ATMs are readily available, and major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted.
Tipping is a common practice in Croatia and is appreciated for good service; typically, you leave 10%.
These two or three-masted boats are the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm, and make a fantastic platform for exploring Zadar and beyond.
Gulets will typically have a professional chef on board who can accommodate dietary preferences while providing exceptional dining.
Sailing on a Gulet is a unique and memorable experience in itself. The feeling of connection with the sea and exploring exciting new locations, all while being superbly looked after by your crew makes for a very special holiday indeed.
With recent advances in the luxury Gulet charter market, this is an excellent choice for a truly magical charter. From the moment you step aboard, every detail is testament to the skills of master craftsmen and designers, with stylish staterooms and cabins sitting alongside fantastically spacious decks for basking in the Mediterranean sun.
On a luxury Gulet charter your crew will include a professional chef to create the perfect menu, catering to all tastes and dietary requirements. This bespoke treatment extends to your itinerary and activities; whether you’re looking for adrenaline-fuelled watersports, deserted coves for private swimming or sundowners on deck before dinner, the expert crew will ensure you have a truly luxurious charter experience.
While Gulets do have sails, they're often motor-sailed or purely motored. Even when under sail, the experience is generally more relaxed and less hands-on than on a typical sailing yacht.
Gulets are designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. They usually feature a large aft deck for dining and lounging, and a spacious foredeck for sunbathing.
Gulets can accommodate larger groups, typically ranging from 6 to 12 guests, making them ideal for families or groups of friends.
Gulets usually come with a full crew, including a captain, chef, and hostess, providing a more hotel-like experience.
Gulet charters tend to travel at a slower pace than large motor yachts, emphasizing relaxation and coastal exploration rather than covering long distances.
Many Gulets feature a full-sized galley, allowing for elaborate meal preparation and are typically known for their excellent onboard cuisine.
Gulet charters often focus on coastal cruising, with frequent stops for swimming, snorkelling, and exploring small ports and bays.
A Gulet is a traditional wooden sailing boat, originating from Turkey. It typically has two or three masts and a wide beam (width), which provides lots of deck space for socialising, eating and relaxing on board.
A crewed Gulet charter from Zadar offers a unique way to explore the stunning Mediterranean coastline. These traditional wooden sailing boats combine the charm of old-world craftsmanship with modern world amenities, and all with crews who are committed to ensuring your comfort, safety and enjoyment.
Each trip offers the opportunity to create a unique journey and our charter experts will guide you through choosing the perfect boat and customising the itinerary to your specification. Whatever your preferences, we take care of all the details, ensuring you and your party have a unique and unforgettable holiday.
Croatia is one of the most popular charter destinations in the Mediterranean. Therefore, booking your dream boat in advance (typically six months ahead) is best to secure your preferred dates in this perfect destination.
You can search for your dream gulet via the link below, or if you want one of our charter experts to do the searching for you, click the link below to get them working on creating the perfect trip.
The Kornati National Park on Zadar’s doorstep consists of 89 breath taking islands and it is a must-visit destination.
A trip to Telascica Nature Park, on the nearby island of Dugi Otok which is known for its dramatic cliffs and saltwater lake (Mir), is not to be missed.
Zadar is also home to the world-famous Sea Organ and Sun Salutation. The Sea Organ, designed by architect Nikola Bašić, harnesses the power of the sea to create harmonious sounds that serenade visitors along the waterfront. The Sun Salutation, made up of giant solar panels, lights up the night in vibrant colours, offering a mesmerizing spectacle.
One of the loveliest features of Zadar is the stunning sunset views, regarded by some - including Alfred Hitchcock - as the most beautiful in the world. Take time to find a peaceful spot on your gulet and witness the sky transform into a painting of vibrant hues. The combination of the sun setting over the Adriatic Sea and the enchanting sounds of the Sea Organ also creates a tranquil and unforgettable experience.
Zadar also offers easy access to the Kornati National Park, consisting of 89 breathtaking islands; a must-visit destination along with the Telascica Nature Park on the island of Dugi Otok which is known for its dramatic cliffs and saltwater lake.
Zadar is a special place for a gulet charter, thanks to its combination of natural beauty, rich history and innovative attractions. Whether you are a lover of history, culture, nature or simply seeking an idyllic getaway, Zadar has something to offer everyone.
If you are doing a bareboat charter, you need to consider if you have the relevant sailing licences. If you are on a skippered or crewed charter, it's good to understand the weather conditions for the trip so you can bring the appropriate clothing and think about which locations you would like to visit so as you can let the skipper know.
When chartering a gulet from Zadar, consider factors such as budget, gulet size and type, along with the crew when relevant to make sure they're a good fit for you and your party.
The good news is we spend a lot of time vetting who we work with, so this rarely happens, but if there is a problem, you can contact your charter company or ourselves who will be available to sort out any issues.
For the ultimate sailing experience, May, June, and September are genuinely the golden months, but the summer months are also popular, though the anchorages are busier.
There are typically five main types of boats and yachts you can hire in Greece, which are Sailing Yachts, Catamarans, Motorboats, Gulets and Luxury Yachts (including Superyachts)
Once you've found your perfect yacht, you will typically pay an upfront deposit fee for holding the boat (these vary from 20% to 50% of the charter fee), and then you will pay the rest one month before departure.
The typical times for a gulet charter are either 7 or 14 days, but you can charter boats longer if you wish. Most charters, particularly in high season, start on Saturdays and finish seven days later.