Starting from the base of Izola, a cruise along the west coast of Istria with its picturesque harbor towns is a natural choice. If you have more time or want to sail longer strokes, you can explore some of the islands of the Kvarner Bay. Of course, from Izola there is also the possibility to sail across to Italy to the lagoon city of Venice.
A trip down the west coast of Istria to Pula and back (with two stops each way) equals about 115 nautical miles. From Izola to Venice (with one stop e.g. in Grado) and back (e.g. via Rovinj and Porec) is about 160 nautical miles. And on a cruise to the Kvarner Bay (e.g. via Rovinj to Mali Losinj, Cres and Pomer and back via Poreč) it adds up to a little over 200 nautical miles.
The picturesque old town of Novigrad is situated on an island artificially connected to the mainland. Such a location on islands or peninsulas is typical for Croatian towns and has ensured that many of the historical buildings have been preserved. This is also the case with the Euphrasius Basilica in Poreč, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both places combine the charm of historic Croatian coastal towns with all the tourist amenities, so you should definitely visit them.
Also very beautiful is the old fishing town of Vrsar a little further south. The town's marina is also close to another tourist attraction: the Limski kanal, also called Lim bay or Limfjord, which flows into the sea here. The confluence of salt and fresh water here allows for the cultivation of mussels (and even oysters). For a long time, the entry of private boats was therefore prohibited, but recently the ban has been lifted. However, please be sure to check again on site for the current regulations and speed limits should you wish to visit the Limski Canal.
Picturesque Rovinj is a typical medieval Mediterranean town. Narrow, cobbled streets characterize the old town - taking a stroll here is not to be missed. Worth seeing are the still preserved town gates, e.g. the Balbi arch at the entrance of the old town. Rovinj is dominated by the Cathedral of St. Euphemia, which can be seen from afar, even from the water. The entire coastline and the surrounding islands, which you will pass on your way further south, are under nature protection.
The port of Veli Brijun, the main island, is the starting point in the Brijuni National Park, because it is forbidden to dock on the other islands of the archipelago, and diving is also not allowed here. The varied nature of the archipelago - there are almost 600 plant species and countless native animal species here - is complemented by the animals of the safari park, which is located at the northern end of the main island.
On the southern tip of Istria, there are two ports of call to choose from. Pomer is sheltered in the bay of Medulin. The place was settled already in Roman times, remains of a thermal baths are still preserved. The marina has 220 berths and is well equipped. The numerous fish restaurants in the place testify to a past as an important breeding place for oysters, mussels and fish.
If you prefer to enjoy urban flair, continue to Pula. Pula is the largest city in Istria, but still exudes the typical Croatian charm. The Roman amphitheater is imposing, but it is not the only interesting legacy from that time worth discovering in Pula. The city also offers plenty of opportunities for strolling and feasting. The marina is located directly in the city harbor and promises sufficient hustle and bustle. Alternatively, the large Marina Veruda near all amenities. It has been awarded the "Blue Flag" for preserving its natural environment.
The beautiful small island of Susak is located in the south of the Kvarner Bay. Very good wine is grown here and there are also many blackberry bushes. The village of the same name Susak is situated in the northeast of the island. There are about 200 people living here who, due to the remoteness of the island, speak a rare old Croatian accent and have also otherwise preserved their cultural independence. Another special feature are the sandy beaches of Susak, a rarity in the Croatian island world. Further north are the islands of Unije, Ilovik and Lošinj. Ilovik is a car-free island, the gardens of the islanders shine with a variety of flowers, especially oleander and roses, which are planted here.
The island of Rab stands out for its differences: the east of the island is completely devoid of vegetation in places, while the west is characterized by dense forest and lush plant life. These differences are not caused by a lack of water (there are more than 300 springs on Rab), but by wind, which is kept away in the west by the Karmenjak mountains. The marina is located in the town harbor of the beautiful town of Rab, which has much to offer in terms of history. In the southwest of the island there are beautiful bays for anchoring and swimming.
Osor is located at the intersection of the islands of Cres and Lošinj and was once an important seafaring town and an important transhipment point for goods. Today, a number of historical sights bear witness to the former greatness of the place. Originally, both islands were connected, but already in Roman times a canal was built. This later silted up again and was not navigable in the Middle Ages. Today the islands are connected by a swing bridge.
