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The perfect sailing weekend in Istria

The perfect sailing weekend in Istria: A 3-day sailing plan

Are you dreaming of a short but unforgettable sailing trip in one of the most beautiful regions of the Adriatic? Then Istria is the perfect choice for your weekend on the water. With its rugged coastline, picturesque bays and charming coastal towns, Istria offers everything you need for a relaxing yet varied sailing trip. Here you will find a 3-day cruise plan that will take you to the best places, without stress, but with plenty of enjoyment.

Day 1: Pula – Brijuni National Park (approx. 15 nautical miles)

Your sailing weekend starts in the historic harbour of Pula. Here you can explore the Roman sights such as the amphitheatre in the morning or stock up on fresh supplies at the local market. Once you have set sail, your course will head north-west towards the Brijuni National Park, a group of 14 islands.

The main island of Veliki Brijun offers beautiful anchorages and a small harbour where you can moor. In the afternoon, it is worth taking a walk through the national park, which is home to Mediterranean flora as well as interesting archaeological sites and a safari park. If you feel like it, you can also hire bikes to explore the island on two wheels. Spend the evening on board, perhaps with a glass of Istrian wine and a cosy dinner while the sun sets over the archipelago.

Day 2: Brijuni – Rovinj (approx. 20 nautical miles)

After a relaxed breakfast on the water, you make your way to the enchanting little town of Rovinj. The town rises picturesquely on a peninsula and you will be amazed by the colourful facades and the striking church of Sant’Eufemia as soon as you enter the harbour.

Once you have docked, take a stroll through the narrow streets of the old town. Here you will find numerous art galleries, small boutiques and cosy cafés where you can enjoy the special flair of the city. If you are longing for a beach, there are several idyllic bays around Rovinj, which you can also reach by dinghy.

In the evening, you should definitely try one of the many fish restaurants serving fresh seafood and Istrian specialities. Rovinj is particularly enchanting at night, when the lights of the town are reflected in the water and create a romantic atmosphere.

Day 3: Rovinj – Poreč – Pula (approx. 35 nautical miles)

On the last day of your cruise, you set sail early and make your way to Poreč, another pearl of the Istrian coast. The town is known for its historic old town centre and the impressive Euphrasian Basilica, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you have time, you should definitely make a short stop here and stroll through the narrow alleyways.

For the last stretch back to Pula, you can use the afternoon to enjoy the peace and quiet on the water once again and perhaps stop for a swim in one of the secluded bays. As soon as you arrive back in Pula, you can round off the evening with a farewell dinner in one of the restaurants in the harbour and reflect on your sailing weekend.

Our summary

This 3-day trip offers you the perfect mix of relaxation, nature experiences and cultural highlights. With short sailing distances and plenty of time to explore the coastal towns, this trip is ideal for a weekend that shows you the best of the Istrian Adriatic. You’ll feel refreshed and inspired – ready to plan your next trip!