Žut Island – A Sailing Haven in the Kornati Archipelago

Tucked between the larger islands of Kornat and Pašman, Žut Island is a hidden gem in the Adriatic and a highlight of any sailing itinerary through the Kornati Archipelago. Despite its name - Žut means “yellow” in Croatian - the island’s scenery is painted in every hue of green and blue, from the olive groves scattered across its hills to the sapphire waters lapping at its rugged shores.

Žut is uninhabited in the traditional sense - there’s no village, no cars, and no permanent population. Yet, during the sailing season, it comes alive with the quiet hum of yachts, the smell of grilled fish wafting from konobas, and the rustle of pines in the afternoon breeze. For sailors looking to anchor in a peaceful bay, enjoy rustic cuisine, and connect with the natural rhythms of the Adriatic, Žut offers the perfect retreat.

Where is Žut Island?

Žut lies just northeast of Kornat Island, forming part of the greater Kornati Archipelago in northern Dalmatia. Although it is not officially within the borders of Kornati National Park, it shares the same geological beauty, indented coastline, and remote charm.

The island stretches about 6 kilometers in length and features an irregular, fingered shoreline full of quiet inlets and hidden coves. Its proximity to Kornat, Murter, and the mainland makes it a convenient and scenic stop on any sailing route through central Dalmatia.

Sailing to Žut – How to Get There by Yacht

Žut is easily reached by sailboat from popular mainland ports such as Biograd na Moru, Zadar, and Šibenik, or from the island of Murter. It lies at the heart of some of the most traveled yacht routes in Croatia, making it a natural waypoint between the Kornati National Park and the wider Zadar archipelago.

Approaching from the west through the Kornati channels or from the east via the Pašman Channel, sailors will find deep, clear waters and good visibility. The island's deeply indented coast offers multiple options for shelter, mooring, or anchoring, whether you’re passing through for lunch or staying overnight.

Žut ACI Marina – A Base for Sailors

Žut is best known in sailing circles for the ACI Marina Žut, one of the most unique marinas in Croatia. Nestled in Luka Žut Bay on the island’s western shore, this seasonal marina operates from April to October and offers mooring for about 120 boats.

Facilities at the ACI Marina include electricity and water (though both are limited due to the island’s lack of infrastructure), a reception office, showers, and a well-regarded restaurant. While there’s no fuel station on the island, it remains a practical and comfortable stop for charter yachts cruising through the region.

The marina is surrounded by hills dotted with olive trees and traditional stone walls, and it offers a great jumping-off point for inland hikes and nearby bays. As night falls, the peaceful isolation of Žut becomes even more magical, with the starry sky reflecting off the calm sea.

Best Anchorages Around Žut

Beyond the marina, Žut’s deeply indented coastline is a playground for sailors in search of tranquility. The island boasts several protected coves that are perfect for anchoring or picking up mooring buoys.

Strunac Bay - Located on the island’s eastern side, Strunac is a quiet, sheltered bay with excellent protection from westerly winds. It’s a peaceful anchorage ideal for a swim stop or a quiet overnight stay.

Pod Ražanj Bay - This scenic bay sits just north of the marina and is known for its crystal-clear waters and lovely swimming. With limited moorings and a rocky seabed, it’s best suited for experienced skippers with good anchoring technique.

Golubovac Bay - On the southeastern side of Žut, Golubovac is less frequented and ideal for sailors seeking total solitude. It offers decent shelter and plenty of space, especially outside peak season.

Bizikovica Bay - Tucked near the northern tip of Žut, Bizikovica is narrow and protected, with beautiful views and shallow waters perfect for snorkeling.

Dining and Konobas on Žut

Žut may not have permanent settlements, but during the sailing season, a handful of rustic konobas open their doors to visiting yachts. These taverns are typically family-run, built from stone and wood, and offer genuine island hospitality rooted in centuries of tradition.

Fešta Restaurant - Perhaps the most famous dining establishment on Žut, Fešta is located near the ACI Marina in Golubovac Bay. This upscale yet relaxed restaurant serves freshly caught seafood, hand-cut prosciutto, and locally sourced vegetables. Their signature dishes include lobster pasta, grilled Adriatic scampi, and octopus under the peka. Moorings are available for guests, and the views at sunset are unforgettable.

Konoba Bain - Located in Luka Žut Bay, just a short walk from the marina, Konoba Bain is known for its traditional dishes, warm hosts, and waterfront seating. Their fish stew and black risotto are crowd favorites.

Konoba Sandra - In the northern part of Žut, Konoba Sandra offers hearty, no-frills Dalmatian cooking. With their own dock, the konoba is a good choice if you’re looking for an authentic meal off the beaten path.

Swimming and Snorkeling

Žut’s clear waters and rocky coastline make it a haven for swimming, snorkeling, and underwater exploration. Most of the bays have pebbled or rocky shores, with some sandy patches underfoot in deeper parts. The underwater world here is rich in biodiversity - expect to see sea stars, groupers, wrasses, and shoals of shimmering fish darting through fields of sea grass.

Snorkelers should explore the reefs near Strunac and the cliffs around the southern capes, where the water is incredibly clear and full of marine life. The relative lack of boat traffic outside the main marina area makes for a peaceful and safe snorkeling environment.

Hiking and Island Exploration

Though Žut is uninhabited, it’s far from barren. The interior features gently rolling hills, olive groves, and dry stone walls, the legacy of seasonal farmers and shepherds who still visit the island to tend their plots. There are no marked hiking trails, but several informal footpaths crisscross the landscape.

A climb up any of Žut’s modest peaks rewards you with panoramic views of the Kornati Archipelago to the southwest and the mainland to the northeast. It’s a fantastic way to stretch your legs after a day at sea and to appreciate the scale and beauty of this rugged island world.

Žut vs. Kornat – What Sets Them Apart?

Žut is often paired with Kornat on sailing itineraries, and while they’re close neighbors, they offer distinct experiences. Kornat, as part of the national park, is more strictly protected, with ancient ruins, vertical cliffs, and a wilderness feel.

Žut, on the other hand, offers a slightly softer landscape and a bit more in the way of services, thanks to the ACI Marina and more frequent konobas. It’s a place where you can enjoy the comforts of good food and moorings without sacrificing the isolation and beauty that define the Kornati sailing experience.

When to Visit Žut

The best time to sail to Žut is between late May and early October, when the weather is warm, the sea is calm, and most konobas are open. July and August are peak season, and while the marina and restaurants can get busy, the island never feels crowded thanks to its undeveloped nature.

For a quieter experience, consider visiting in June or September, when the water is still warm, winds are steady, and the anchorages are less populated.

Sailing Conditions and Navigation Tips

Sailing around Žut is generally easy, with deep waters and few hidden hazards. That said, local winds can change quickly, particularly the bura (northeasterly wind), which can funnel down from the mainland and stir up challenging conditions.

The island’s many bays offer good protection from the maestral (northwest afternoon breeze), which is common in summer and provides excellent sailing on open water. It’s always wise to check weather forecasts regularly and plan anchorage accordingly.

Charts should be consulted when entering bays, as some have rocky shelves or shallow spots near shore. Mooring buoys are available in many popular anchorages, but they may be limited in high season.

Essential Tips for Sailing to Žut

Reserve moorings early in July and August, especially at ACI Marina Žut and Fešta Restaurant.

Provision before arrival, as there are no shops or supplies on the island.

Bring cash, as not all konobas accept cards.

Respect the environment - take all waste with you and avoid dropping anchor on seagrass meadows.

Explore by dinghy to reach shallower inlets and tucked-away swimming spots.

Žut for Families, Couples, and Adventurers

Žut has a versatile charm that suits all kinds of sailors. Families will appreciate the calm bays for swimming and the friendly marina with amenities. Couples will find romance in quiet sunset dinners and stargazing from the cockpit. Adventure-seekers will love the snorkeling, hiking, and feeling of disconnecting from the modern world.

With no cities, no noise, and no distractions, Žut offers one of the purest sailing experiences in Croatia.

Nearby Islands to Add to Your Žut Sailing Itinerary

Kornat - Wild and dramatic, with ancient ruins and the iconic cliffs of the national park.

Levrnaka - Home to Lojena Beach, one of the rare sandy beaches in the region.

Piškera - Another key stop with a seasonal marina and access to the national park.

Sit and Gangaro - Small islets nearby perfect for lunch stops and swimming.

Conclusion – Žut, the Soul of the Kornati Sailing Experience

Žut may not have the name recognition of Hvar or the urban excitement of Split, but for sailors in search of peace, beauty, and authentic island life, it’s a destination that exceeds all expectations. With its pristine anchorages, delicious food, and stunning scenery, Žut invites you to slow down and savor every moment.

Whether you're chartering a bareboat or enjoying a skippered sailing holiday, Žut belongs on your Croatian itinerary. It’s not just a stopover - it’s a destination in itself.

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