Kravljačica Anchorage Guide

Anchoring Zones

Kravljačica has 3 distinct anchoring zones, each with different depth, holding, and exposure characteristics. Choose the zone that matches your boat size and the expected overnight conditions.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Kravljačica is primarily sand and mud with reliable holding when properly set. Use the following approach:

1. Approach slowly and check your depth sounder on the way in. At 3–8m, deploy at minimum 7:1 scope (56m chain at 8m depth).
2. Drop into the wind or current and pay out chain steadily as the boat drifts back — do not allow chain to pile on the anchor.
3. Set firmly in reverse. Apply moderate throttle astern for 30–60 seconds. The chain should tighten without the boat moving backwards.
4. Snorkel to verify bottom type. Posidonia meadows are common in the Kornati — always confirm your anchor is on sand or mud, not Posidonia (anchoring on it carries heavy fines). Use the scope calculator to confirm adequate chain.

Recommended anchor types for this bottom: Rocna, Mantus, Spade, Delta. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Kravljačica are feasible but require monitoring. The anchorage is exposed to W and SW winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 65m radius before going below for the night.65m covers the bay head swing on sand/mud at 3–7m with standard 5:1 scope. The narrow inlet shape restricts lateral drift. Reduce to 50m if sharing the bay head with multiple boats. Deeper mid-bay anchoring: use 95m. The bay provides excellent Bura protection — this is a go-to anchorage when NE katabatic forecast is given.

Excellent May–October, including as a Bura shelter in autumn and early season. July–August sees moderate use — most charter boats head for Lojena or Lavsa first, keeping this anchorage more tranquil. A prime choice for experienced sailors who need a reliable all-weather anchorage in the Kornati.

Navigation Hazards

• W and SW exposed — afternoon Mistral from NW can push chop into the outer bay; the bay head remains calm but mid-bay becomes uncomfortable in strong NW
• Extreme Bura (F8–10) can still produce significant gusts through the gaps on the NE hills — do not underestimate; keep anchor firmly set with good scope
• Posidonia patches on the fringes of the sandy bay head area; inspect visually
• Konoba schedule is unreliable — do not rely on food without a backup

Rules & Regulations

• Kornati NP entry permit: Required — Croatian eNautička cruising permit required. Kornati National Park daily entry fee per person. The bay is within the park boundary.
• Anchoring fee: Free to anchor; park entry fee per person per day
• Restrictions: Posidonia anchoring prohibited. No fires ashore. Park wardens patrol regularly. Konoba (if open) is the only facility — all other needs from Murter or Piškera.
• Croatian eNautička (MMPI) permit also required — obtain before entering Croatian waters.

For a full overview of Croatian anchoring rules, see our overnight anchoring rules by region guide.

Facilities

• Fresh water: Not available — come fully provisioned
• Fuel: Not available — nearest: Murter (mainland) (12nm)
• Konoba (restaurant): Seasonal konoba at the bay head — typically open June–September. Menu features lamb (janjetina), fish, and local wine. Check with park warden or local sailors for current season status.
• Provisions: None on site — Murter (mainland) (12nm)

Skipper's Tips

1. If a Bura warning is issued for the Kornati area, head directly for Kravljačica or Šipnate — both are the best Bura shelters on the main Kornat island
2. The bay head gives excellent holding: use at least 5:1 scope on chain and set the anchor hard with a burst of reverse thrust
3. The konoba, when open, serves excellent lamb roasted on the spit (janjetina ispod peke) — arguably the best single meal in the Kornati; ask ahead by VHF Ch 16 if in range
4. Depart early if Mistral is forecast to strengthen above F5 — the mid-bay becomes lively and departure becomes difficult if you wait