A beautifully diverse region of many climates and corresponding flora and fauna. High mountain peaks melt into the Adriatic, touching the biggest islands in Croatia; the view of the bays, coves and isles from some of the bigger peaks in the Kvarner hinterland is spectacular. Chartering centers are plentiful in Kvarner, partly due to Opatija, a cradle of businesses tourism in Croatia, where it is easy to rent a yacht and do some bunnies while sailing. Kvarner Gulf is known for having a mild climate and calm waters, due to its northeastern positioning and is home to many Blue Flag beaches, that symbolize quality of service and purity of water.
Where to start? – Best ports in Kvarner region
Punat is a small, picturesque town, situated in the middle of the Island of Krk, just 8 kilometers from the island’s main town- Krk. Punat is situated in the bay of Puntarska or Košljunska draga. Just across the town of Punat, there is a small island of Košljun, where you can find a Franciscan convent, beautiful St. Mary's monastery. First thing that you'll notice while approaching Punat is a modern marina, home for many boats and yachts as it's the biggest marina on the Croatian coastline. Punat is divided into northern and southern parts, where you can experience exceptionally good wine and local dairy products. One of the most famous dish to try is definitely šurlice, special handmade pasta which finds her complementary ''partner'' in fresh shrimps. On the southern part of Punat you can find long beaches with many fun and interesting activities for anyone's taste.
Located in the Lošinj bay, home of one of the last dolphin habitats in the Adriatic, Mali Lošinj, with lush green scenery, is a paradise waiting to be explored. The whole of the island was declared a climate treatment center in the 19th century, because of very clean and aromatic air, due to centuries old pine forests, wild aromatic herbs and clean sea. Mali Lošinj is also a significant maritime center, located on the sea route connecting Istra and Dalmatia. Mali Lošinj offers plenty of beaches for the willing sailor, like Sunchana and Pijesak beaches, or Emglezi cove.
A beautiful marriage between ancient evergreenery and pristine beaches, Novi Vinodolski is laid in a fertile valley of Vinodol, a mostly rocky area with good access to the sea. Fortificational monuments such as Frankopan castle or the Roman fort of Lopsica are guardians of the history of Novi Vinodolski. Because of good positioning, Novi Vinodolski serves as a hub for boating excursions on the nearby islands of Krk, Cres, Rab and Pag. There are many happenings during the summer months in Novi Vinodolski - various shows, concerts of modern and classical music, theater plays and of course, fairs and summer games.
What to visit in Kvarner region?
When sailing in the Kvarner region, be sure to make Opatija and Rijeka your stops. Rijeka because of its importance as a maritime travel hub for the region and Opatija for the numerous decorated villas, hotels and other building built by royalty and decorated with beautiful open gardens.
Witnessing the diverse underwater wildlife is possible through diving in one of the numerous diving centers spread across the regions. Best for last, the Kornati archipelago in the vicinity, a statement of nature about beauty. Stunning sights await sailors in the archipelago, with luminescent waters and fairy- tale horizons.