Murter Island – The Gateway to Kornati and a Beloved Sailing Hub

If there's one island that stands as the beating heart of Dalmatia’s sailing culture, it’s Murter. Nestled just off the coast between Zadar and Šibenik, Murter isn’t just a stopover for sailors - it’s a destination steeped in maritime heritage, surrounded by quiet anchorages, and perfectly positioned at the gateway to the Kornati Archipelago.

Murter's unique blend of authentic village life, sheltered bays, marinas, and easy access to the national park has long made it a favorite among skippers cruising central Dalmatia. Whether you're chartering a yacht, plotting a week-long island-hopping route, or simply searching for a base that combines comfort with adventure, Murter offers it all.

Where Is Murter Island?

Murter lies in northern Dalmatia, connected to the mainland by a small bridge in the town of Tisno. The island is just a short drive from both Zadar and Split airports, making it one of the most accessible sailing hubs in the region.

What sets Murter apart is its strategic position. To the west, the scattered islets of Kornati National Park stretch out like pearls across the sea. To the south and east, the sheltered waters of the Šibenik archipelago offer calm sailing conditions and countless coves to explore. This location makes Murter a natural starting or ending point for sailing itineraries that span the Dalmatian coast.

Sailing to and from Murter – A Natural Base for Yacht Charters

Murter has evolved into one of the most popular embarkation points for yacht charters in Croatia. The town of Murter itself, along with nearby Betina, hosts multiple marinas offering full-service facilities, provisioning, fuel, and technical support.

From here, you’re just an hour's sail from the Kornati National Park entrance at Opat and within easy reach of must-visit islands like Žut, Levrnaka, Piškera, and beyond. Day trips to Vrgada, Kaprije, and the Krka Waterfalls via Skradin are also common from Murter.

The protected waters between Murter and the Kornati offer steady winds, minimal swell, and safe conditions - ideal for less experienced crews or families with children.

Marinas and Moorings on Murter Island

Murter is home to several well-equipped marinas that cater specifically to charter yachts and sailing travelers:

Marina Hramina (Murter Town)
Located in the heart of Murter town, Marina Hramina is a modern, full-service marina offering over 400 berths, 120 dry dock spaces, fuel, water, and electricity. It has an on-site restaurant, shop, and technical services. This marina is a primary charter base and a safe spot for overnight mooring.

Marina Betina
Adjacent to Murter town, Marina Betina combines traditional shipbuilding history with modern sailing infrastructure. It has over 200 berths and is well sheltered, with a charming atmosphere. Betina village, just steps from the marina, is known for its preserved Dalmatian architecture and excellent konobas.

ACI Jezera Marina
Located in the village of Jezera on the island’s southern coast, ACI Marina Jezera is another excellent option, particularly for those looking to avoid the summer congestion of Murter town. It’s quieter, beautifully landscaped, and a fantastic departure point for Kornati trips.

Top Anchorages Near Murter Island

Though Murter has modern marinas, its true charm lies in its nearby anchorages - calm bays, crystal-clear water, and traditional coastal scenery. Here are some of the most popular stops within easy reach:

Kosirina Bay
South of Murter town, Kosirina is a shallow, turquoise bay ideal for swimming and anchoring. It’s partially open to the south but offers good holding. The bay is especially popular with catamarans and sailors looking for a day stop near land.

Slanica Bay
Home to Murter’s most famous beach, Slanica offers a wide, sandy-bottomed anchorage. It's popular in summer and features a beach bar and nearby amenities. The beach gets crowded with tourists, but the anchorage remains calm and inviting.

Podvrške Bay
To the northwest of Murter town, Podvrške is a beautiful swimming and snorkeling spot with pine-lined shores and a peaceful atmosphere. Anchoring is best in settled conditions, as the bay is open to northwest winds.

Konobas and Cuisine on Murter

Murter’s long fishing tradition is still very much alive, and it shows in the local cuisine. Sailors visiting the island can enjoy everything from rustic konobas to high-end seafood restaurants, many of which offer mooring or dinghy access.

Konoba Boba (Murter Town)
Boba is considered one of the finest restaurants in the Šibenik region. Set in a beautiful garden with modern Dalmatian design, it specializes in locally sourced seafood, creative tasting menus, and an excellent wine list. Reservations are recommended.

Tic-Tac (Murter Town)
A classic among sailors, Tic-Tac serves grilled seafood, black risotto, and Dalmatian tapas-style dishes right on the waterfront. It’s lively, informal, and well loved.

Konoba Kanata (Betina)
This family-run konoba is tucked in the stone alleys of Betina and focuses on seasonal, traditional fare like octopus salad, marinated anchovies, and peka (slow-cooked meat or seafood under a bell). Friendly, local, and delicious.

Exploring Murter on Land

Though many sailors are content to stay near the sea, Murter’s inland charms are worth exploring:

Murter Town
Wander the cobbled streets, visit the local fish market, and sip coffee with locals at a harbor café. Murter Town is a great place to restock supplies or enjoy a night off the boat.

Betina Shipbuilding Museum
Betina has a centuries-old tradition of wooden shipbuilding, and the local museum tells this story beautifully. It’s a great stop for those interested in Croatia’s maritime heritage and the legacy of traditional gajeta boats.

Viewpoints and Olive Groves
Murter’s interior is dotted with olive groves, dry-stone walls, and hiking paths. For a panoramic view, hike or drive up to Raduč Hill, where you can look out over the Kornati Islands and the Adriatic horizon.

Kornati National Park Access from Murter

Murter is the main entrance point for visiting Kornati National Park, a cluster of over 80 barren, rocky islets and reefs that form one of the most unique sailing destinations in Europe. Permits for the park can be arranged at marinas or online, and the nearest entry point - Opat Gate - is just a short sail away.

Many sailors use Murter as a provisioning base before entering the park, as there are no shops or fuel stations inside Kornati. From Murter, you can easily plan 2 - 4 day explorations of the archipelago, anchoring in bays like Vrulje, Levrnaka, and Piškera.

Events and Local Culture

Murter isn’t just about sailing - it also has a strong sense of community and cultural tradition:

Murter’s Regattas - Several sailing events and regattas take place throughout the year, attracting local and international yachts.

Fishermen’s Nights - During summer, local villages host food and music festivals celebrating the island’s fishing culture.

Betina Gajeta Days - A celebration of wooden boatbuilding and traditional sailing, featuring races and heritage displays.

Sailing Conditions Around Murter

The sailing conditions around Murter are favorable for most of the year. In summer, the maestral (northwest afternoon wind) offers predictable and comfortable sailing. Bura (northeast) and jugo (southeast) can bring stronger gusts, especially in shoulder seasons.

The surrounding waters are well-charted and safe, with many protected routes between islets. Navigation is straightforward, and distances between anchorages are short, making it easy to adapt your itinerary based on wind conditions.

When to Sail to Murter

The best time to sail to Murter is from May to October, with peak season in July and August. During summer, you’ll find a lively marina scene, warm seas, and vibrant village life. For a quieter experience with reliable weather, consider sailing in June or September, when crowds are lighter but everything is still open.

Why Sailors Love Murter

Murter has long been a favorite among Croatian sailors—and for good reason. It combines the practical appeal of a well-connected, full-service base with the beauty of traditional Dalmatian island life. From calm anchorages and quiet beaches to world-class cuisine and access to the Kornati National Park, Murter offers something for every kind of sailor.

Whether you’re chartering a yacht for the week, exploring the Kornati for the first time, or looking for an authentic, laid-back escape, Murter stands out as one of the Adriatic’s true sailing gems.

Nearby Islands and Stops

If you’re planning a sailing itinerary that includes Murter, consider adding these nearby destinations:

Vrgada - A peaceful island with sandy bays and pine forests, just a short sail north.

Kaprije and Kakan - Quieter islands southeast of Murter with tranquil moorings and rustic charm.

Žirje - A more remote island with untouched coves and excellent snorkeling.

Skradin and Krka Waterfalls - Sail inland via the Krka River for a freshwater break at one of Croatia’s most famous natural wonders.

Conclusion – Murter, Where Sailing Meets Soul

For sailors, Murter offers the perfect balance: enough facilities to make life easy, but enough tradition and authenticity to keep it real. It’s a place where the rhythms of the sea and the island blend seamlessly. Chartering from Murter means you’re not just sailing Croatia - you’re becoming part of its seafaring story.

Whether you're drawn by its marinas, its proximity to Kornati, or simply the beauty of its bays, Murter welcomes you with open arms and steady winds.

Plan your next sailing trip starting from Murter Island with trusted experts at Navigare Solutions, and set course for Croatia’s most breathtaking waters.