Punat is a charming town situated on the Island of Krk, the biggest Croatian island. It was strategically placed in a bay, Puntarska Draga, so that ancient fisherman could have natural shielding for boats docking here. First thing that you'll notice while approaching Punat is a modern, newly built marina, that houses many vessels and yachts, as it is the biggest marina on the Croatian coastline.
Why choose Punat as you starting point?
With plenty of bareboats and yachts on offer and with professional skippers ready to help you sail around the Adriatic, no wonder Punat is quickly becoming a nautical paradise. Islands just a boatride away from Punat hide spectacular panoramas, an assortment of edible wild berries, endangered species of birds nesting high in the cliffs and plenty of room in shape of quiet, secluded bays to anchor and enjoy the pleasant Adriatic evenings.
What to do and see on your yacht charter holiday in Punat?
In the middle of the Punat bay, just across town, there is a small island of Košljun, where you can find a Franciscan convent, beautiful St. Mary's monastery. Labyrinths of small, winding paths cover the islands, so it is easy to get lost among the little shrines and thick vegetation. Points of interest in Punat are divided into northern and southern parts. In the North, one finds the old town, characterized by classical Adriatic seaside architecture, like small and tight streets called kale and several local restaurants called konobe where exceptionally good wine and local dairy products are on offer. In the South, long beaches with many fun and interesting activities for anyone's taste. In the middle of Punat there's a camp centered in a pine tree forest called Pila. Punat has its own little train that has been running for a few decades and it will take you from the center of Punat to the beaches in under 10 minutes. Punat is very ecological and pet friendly, that's why the Marina and the surrounding beaches are winners of blue flags ever since 1998. You can also take your dog with you because there is a dog beach, only 10 minute walk from Punat’s main beach Punta Debij. Alongside many cocktail bars, you can try the Aquapark, Waterpark, beach volleyball or jet skiing. If that's not enough thrill for you, you can always try some water parachuting on China beach. If you're more into hiking, then just above Punat one can find the tallest point of the Island of Krk - Veli vrh, and of course, there are plenty hiking roads that will take you there. During the summertime, there are many happenings, cultural or otherwise-almost every town and village has it's ''own days'' and during those days various shows, concerts of modern and classical music, theater plays and of course, fairs and summer games are organized. You can participate or buy some fantastic local products such as sheep cheese, variety of meat and fish products, figs, olive oil or handmade pasta.
When is the best time to sail in Punat?
Because of the marina, the season starts sooner, with the beginning of April, because the first sun rays tend to bring out many a sailors and boatmen. The boating season usually ends around October. Air temperatures hit the maximum around late July and early August, climbing as high as 38 degrees Celsius, with averages always being around 30 degrees. Sea temperatures tend to be around 25 to 28 degrees Celsius, but when the strong Bura wind blows from the mountains, it has the ability to drastically reduce sea temperatures. In just few days, water temperatures are known to drop by 3-5 degrees.