Sibenik Zlarin Murter Sibenik

Our adventure will start in Sibenik. Sibenik is a wonderful historic gem that showcases Venetian-style architecture and idyllic natural beauty. The first attraction that we will visit here is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. Jacob's Cathedral. Referred to as one of the most significant and beautiful architectural achievements in Croatia, its construction lasted more than a hundred years. Built during the 15th and 16th centuries, the structure was made entirely out of stone. One site not to be missed within this glorious building is the baptistery. Here, an exquisitely carved ceiling and large font supported by three angels can be seen. We will now explore St. John's Fort, which is the largest and highest fortress in Sibenik. Built in 1646 on a 120-meter-high hill, it gained its name from a church that had resided on the land for many centuries. The fortress was built by the people of Sibenik, taking only 58 days to construct, for the purpose of being the main point of the new defense system of the city. The final attraction on today's agenda is the unique monument of St. Nicholas Fortress. Only accessible by boat, this UNESCO World Heritage Site lies at the entrance to the St. Anthony's Channel, representing important architectural heritage. It was built by the Venetians in the 16th century to block maritime attacks and deter any invaders or threats coming ashore. As one of the best preserved fortresses in Croatia, tour members will witness a truly formidable ancient form of defense.

We will now travel from Sibenik to Zlarin Island. Zlarin Island is a small, unspoiled island renowned for its pristine nature, red corals, secluded beaches, and rich historic sites. It is the third largest and one of the six inhabited islands that lie within the Sibenik archipelago. With approximately 2,700 hours of sunshine per year, it is also one of the sunniest in the Adriatic. As a car-free zone, it allows visitors to enjoy a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The best way to explore this small destination is on foot or by hiring a bicycle. Interesting attractions worth visiting include the Coral Museum, discovering the remains of Roman and Illyrian settlements, along with ancient churches such as Our Lady of Raselj, which dates back to the 15th century, and the Church of Maria’s Assumption, which dates back to the 18th century. For those who enjoy hiking, there are many trails to choose from. The most popular is the trail leading to Klepac, which is the highest point on the island. At 174 meters above sea level, it provides spectacular views. As for beaches, there are several sandy and pebbled areas to choose from, many of which are surrounded by thriving vegetation, providing natural shade, a tranquil atmosphere, and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming.

Today, we will sail from Zlarin Island to Kaprije Island. Kaprije Island is a hidden gem in the Adriatic, named after the caper bud, a Mediterranean wild plant whose aromatic buds are a fundamental ingredient in the Mediterranean diet. The island is known by many as the land of the farmers, where visitors can admire 23 kilometers of dry stone walls while hiking and exploring this beautiful area. This charming destination is a car-free zone and home to only one village, also named Kaprije, which lies in the bay of St. Peter on the north-western part of the island. Here, tour members can find several amenities, such as a doctor's office, a post office, a cash machine, shops, and a few restaurants. The most spectacular part of this village is located on a hill with wonderful old houses, the local church of St. Peter, named after the patron saint of Kaprije, and breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. All over the island, there are many magical bays and small coves to discover, which are hotspots for boaters and tourists during the summer months. The whole island is covered in tiny paths made by the locals when walking to their farms, making it an interesting place to explore. The island is believed to have first been inhabited in the 15th century, when it was an oasis for the people of Sibenik, who needed shelter from Ottoman incursions, and today it still provides a relaxing paradise away from busy life for all who visit. Our last stop for today will take us to Mala Nozdra Bay, which is located on the south side of Kaprije Island. This area showcases pristine waters, rocky shores, and spectacular views, providing the perfect location for those who enjoy a relaxing and tranquil atmosphere. There is a wonderful pebbled beach, and the waters surrounding the bay are crystal clear, perfect for a refreshing evening swim. There are two renowned restaurants that are located here, both of which serve local delicacies and fresh seafood.

Today's journey will lead us from Kaprije Island to Zirje Island. Zirje Island is the most remote inhabited island in the Sibenik archipelago, gaining its name after the numerous acorn and oak forests that once grew here. This island was once a military base, but today it focuses on fishing and agriculture, with its main industries being producing grapes, olives, plums, figs, and sour cherries. It boasts a peaceful atmosphere, wonderful scenery, beautiful coves, islets, and fabulous coral reefs. The island's interesting history can be found when exploring, such as discovering remnants of a late-Hellenic fort as well as traces of other ancient defensive structures. While touring this wonderful island, we will visit Zirje Island's Muna, also known as Port Muna. Referred to as one of the island's hidden gems, it boasts pristine waters, rich culture, a tranquil ambiance, lush Mediterranean greenery, and a rocky coastline. Named after the hill that towers over the harbor, its geographical position has made this area a popular stop for Blue Cruise Tours. The final destination on today's tour will lead us to the Church of St. Mary. It is an extremely important religious landmark in the center of the village of Zirje. Built in 1480, it provides a place of worship and a sanctuary for many. Here, tour members can witness Baroque architecture at its finest, a small bell tower, a timeless interior design, four wonderful altars, and religious relics. In the surrounding grounds of the church, members can also visit family vaults and graves belonging to the island's ancestors.

The journey will now guide us from Zirje Island to Kornati National Park. Kornati National Park is a collection of approximately 89 islands and islets, creating a labyrinth that is perfect for sailing. Tour members will witness a nautical paradise with breathtaking scenery, nature, and beauty. Tureta Castle is next on today's agenda. The ancient castle consists of a fortress on top of a hill with spectacular views of the Kornati Archipelago. It was built to oversee the Kornati Channel, warn nearby fortresses and watchtowers, and protect against invasions and pirates. The castle is only accessible by boat, followed by a hike up a steep hill. The next part of our tour will guide us to Opat Bay, located on the island of Kornat in the Kornati archipelago. This small bay is home to a single restaurant, serving authentic local food. This secluded bay is a paradise, and the perfect place to unwind and relax. For our adventurous guests, there is a steep climb to the top of the island where a spectacular bird-eye view of National Park Kornati can be seen. Moving on, we will visit Dugi Otok, which is a beautiful island, especially popular with those looking for peace, relaxation, and superb nature. It is well-known for Sakarun Beach in the north and the impressive Telascica Nature Park with magnificent high cliffs in the south. On Dugi Otok, there are 12 quaint villages with approximately 1,500 inhabitants. It is a charming place with dreamlike natural scenery as well as many breathtaking and idyllic beaches. We will now stop at Dugi Otok’s Sakarun Bay. Here, one of the most beautiful beaches on the Adriatic can be seen. The sea is clear, the waters are shallow, and the white sandy beach is spacious and surrounded by a fragrant pine forest. For the next part of our adventure, we will visit Telascica Bay (Telascica Natural Park) in the southern part of Dugi Otok. This bay is well known for its coves, several small islands, and magnificent cliffs, all of which lie on a 69-kilometer indented coastline. Over 400 plant species, as well as numerous rare and endemic plants, have been found here, including the endangered red coral and the carnivorous sponge. Other animals that you may see include crabs, sea urchins, small and larger fish varieties, falcons, and sometimes even dolphins.

Today's journey will take us from Kornati National Park to Murter Island. Murter Island is home to the four towns of Murter, Betina, Tisno, and Jezera. This destination showcases an abundance of beauty in its clear waters, old olive trees, impressive climate, pine-scented forests, and hidden, secluded coves. There are many small, spectacular beaches and bays to explore all around the island, along with various historic sites dating back to ancient Roman times. We will now visit Prvic Island, which is a beautiful, quiet, car-free zone. The island is home to the two villages of Prvic Luka and Sepurine, where a few small shops and restaurants can be found. It takes approximately 15 minutes to walk from one village to the next, and attractions, such as the Faust Vrancic Museum, small galleries, churches, fantastic beaches, and secluded bays can be discovered. We will now take a trip to Tijat Island which is another uninhabited island that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It boasts a rugged landscape with many hidden bays, beaches, and impressive vegetation. There are several sights to see here, such as a large metal cross that stands tall at 119 meters. This monumental cross is an important landmark for sailors and visitors alike. Other attractions include the wonderful beaches of Trstevica, Plava, and Imperial Beach, all of which are organized with several amenities. To conclude today's tour, we will visit Murter Island’s Slanica Bay, which is situated on the southeastern side of the town of Murter. This destination is home to picturesque views of faraway islands, vibrant and colorful sunsets, and glistening waters. The beach here is sandy with  a mixture of fine pebbles and large flat rocks. It is the most popular beach because of its spectacular scenery and relaxing, calm environment. Tour members can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sea kayaking or simply relaxing and watching the sun set.

The final day of the tour we will sail from Murter Island to Sibenik. Sibenik is one of the most interesting cities on the coast of Dalmatia. It is situated along the estuary of the Krka River, a short distance east of the river’s mouth on the Adriatic Sea. There are many things to do and see on this fairytale-like island, from exploring Sibenik Old Town, which is built on a hill with more than 2,800 steps, to relaxing on wonderful beaches such as Banj Beach. Along with the attractions that we visited on the first day of our tour, other popular sites include the Mediaeval Mediterranean Garden of St. Lawrence Monastery, Republic Square, the Church Sveti Barbara, or the Sibenik Viewing Platform for magical views of the city. As for nightlife, there are many types of venues to choose from, such as high-energy clubs, cocktail bars, and quiet cafes.