Discover Dugi Otok by Sail: A Hidden Gem of the Adriatic

Stretching like a long, narrow brushstroke on the Croatian map, Dugi Otok - meaning “Long Island” - is one of Dalmatia’s best-kept secrets. Located just west of Zadar, this elongated island offers an ideal balance of solitude, natural beauty, and genuine Adriatic charm. For sailors, Dugi Otok is a dreamscape of quiet coves, dramatic cliffs, turquoise bays, and welcoming harbors - often with fewer crowds than the better-known southern islands.

Whether you're anchoring beneath the rugged cliffs of Telašćica Nature Park or enjoying a glass of wine in a peaceful village marina, Dugi Otok invites you to slow down and savor the timeless rhythm of the sea.

Sailing to Dugi Otok: A Route Off the Beaten Path

Dugi Otok is easily reachable from Zadar, making it an excellent first or last stop on northern Dalmatian sailing routes. The sail from Zadar to Dugi Otok takes about 2–3 hours, depending on wind and sea conditions. Along the way, you'll pass between the islands of Ugljan and Pašman and through the narrow channels that open up to the open Adriatic.

The island stretches approximately 45 km in length but is rarely more than 5 km wide, making it perfect for island-hopping day trips and anchoring in secluded bays.

Telašćica Nature Park: Wild Beauty and Secure Anchorage

The southeastern tip of Dugi Otok is home to Telašćica Nature Park, a stunning protected area ideal for sailors. Within the park, you'll find one of the safest natural harbors in the Adriatic - a vast, well-sheltered anchorage that has provided refuge for seafarers for centuries.

Highlights include:

Steep cliffs that rise up to 160 meters above the sea.

The salt lake Mir, a peaceful place for swimming and walking.

Abundant wildlife and pine-covered slopes.

Anchoring in Telašćica is a must for nature lovers. Park fees apply, but the setting is well worth it. Buoys are available in selected areas, and anchoring is permitted in others, depending on weather and ecological conditions.

Sakarun Beach: White Sands and Crystal Waters

At the northwestern end of Dugi Otok lies Sakarun Beach, one of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches. Known for its powdery white sand and shallow turquoise waters, it’s a popular stop for sailing yachts, especially during the summer.

Anchoring is possible in the bay, though it can get busy in peak season. Sakarun is also family-friendly, with a relaxed beach bar and easy access to nearby restaurants in Božava or Veli Rat.

Veli Rat and the Iconic Lighthouse

Just north of Sakarun sits Veli Rat, home to the famous Lighthouse of Veli Rat - the tallest lighthouse on the Adriatic coast. Standing 42 meters tall, this lighthouse has watched over the waters since 1849 and is one of the most photogenic maritime landmarks in the region.

The nearby Veli Rat marina is small but charming, offering moorings and basic amenities for visiting yachts. It’s an ideal overnight stop for those exploring the island’s northern end.

Brbinj, Božava, and Savar: Authentic Island Villages

Unlike many tourist-heavy spots, Dugi Otok’s villages have retained their slow, authentic pace. Three especially inviting ports for sailors include:

Brbinj - Located on the eastern shore, it offers a protected bay and ferry access to Zadar. Two coves, Lučina and Brbinj Bay, provide good anchoring conditions with nearby restaurants and shops.

Božava - A picturesque village with a small marina, perfect for overnight stays. Great base for exploring Sakarun or cycling the island.

Savar - Known for its stone quarries and a scenic 9th-century church on a small peninsula. A tranquil anchorage surrounded by olive groves and peace.

These villages are excellent for provisioning, enjoying local cuisine, or simply unwinding in a harbor with a view.

Diving the Michele Wreck: An Underwater Highlight

Just off the western coast of Dugi Otok lies one of the Adriatic’s most famous dive sites: the Michele shipwreck. Resting at a depth of 21-30 meters, this Italian merchant ship sank during World War II and is now teeming with marine life.

Divers and snorkelers can enjoy exploring its corals, structure, and vibrant underwater ecosystem. Dive tours are available through local diving centers on the island, especially from Božava and Veli Rat.

Dining on Dugi Otok: Local Flavors and Coastal Charm

Dugi Otok may be quiet, but it boasts some wonderful seaside dining options. You’ll find konobas and family-run restaurants serving Dalmatian specialties like:

Grilled fish and octopus

Black cuttlefish risotto

Peka (meat or seafood slow-cooked under a bell)

Homemade rakija and wines from nearby Zadar vineyards

Recommended stops include:

Konoba Regula in Božava - traditional meals with harbor views.

Konoba Riba in Veli Rat - fresh daily catch and local hospitality.

Konoba Lanterna in Savar - cozy setting with exceptional seafood.

Sailing Conditions and Tips

Dugi Otok is well-positioned for relaxed sailing, with moderate winds and a mix of sheltered coves and open stretches. The Maestral (northwest afternoon wind) is common in summer and provides great sailing conditions along the western shore.

Key sailing tips:

Use protected anchorages during Bora (NE) or Jugo (SE) winds.

Telašćica and Veli Rat marina are reliable havens in bad weather.

Water is available in Sali.

Always check park rules before anchoring in Telašćica Nature Park.

Island Hopping from Dugi Otok

Thanks to its central location, Dugi Otok makes a fantastic base for exploring nearby destinations. From here, you can sail to:

Zverinac - A peaceful islet with a small harbor and traditional vibe.

Ist and Molat - Green islands with good anchorages and very few tourists.

Kornati Islands - South of Telašćica, the Kornati archipelago is just a short sail away.

Sestrunj and Rivanj - Quiet northern islands for off-grid relaxation.

Brief History of Dugi Otok

Dugi Otok has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of Illyrian tribes and Roman settlements. Its isolation made it a safe refuge during turbulent times, and the villages developed slowly around agriculture, fishing, and later, seafaring.

Today, traces of its layered past can still be seen in old churches, stone quarries, and olive groves that stretch across the island’s spine.

Why Sailors Love Dugi Otok

Tranquility - Fewer crowds and more space to anchor.

Natural beauty - Cliffs, beaches, and pine forests.

Rich experiences - Diving, cycling, hiking, swimming, and relaxing.

Authenticity - Real Dalmatian island life, untouched by mass tourism.

Proximity to Zadar - Easy to access, yet remote enough to feel like a hidden world.

Final Thoughts: Dugi Otok Awaits

If you're looking for an Adriatic sailing destination that balances unspoiled nature, peaceful anchorages, and genuine island culture, Dugi Otok is a top pick. From the towering cliffs of Telašćica to the shimmering shallows of Sakarun, every nautical mile reveals a new treasure.

For those chartering from Zadar or Šibenik, don’t skip this long, wild island - it just might become your favorite stop.