There are several ways to reach the islands of the Zadar Archipelago. It all depends on your preferences and the availability of transportation. Here are some common ways of transportation that can take you there…
Ferry: Ferries are the most common means of transportation to the islands. Zadar is well connected by ferry lines with most of the islands of the archipelago. Use ferry routes that sail to the islands such as Dugi otok, Iž, Rava, Silba, Olib and others. The ferries usually depart from the port in Zadar and sail to destinations on the islands. The duration of the ferry ride depends on the distance to a particular destination, but it usually takes between 1 and 2 hours.
Catamaran: Catamarans are a faster means of transport than ferries and they are ideal for getting to and island faster. There are catamaran routes that connect Zadar with islands such as Ist, Silba, Molat, Rava and others. The catamaran rides are usually shorter than the ferry rides.
Boat: If you prefer private transportation, you can rent a boat or join an organised tour that will take you to the island of the Zadar archipelago that you wish to visit. This is a great option if you want to explore several islands or if you want more freedom in choosing your routes and stops.
To find out about the availability of lines and departure times, check the schedule of ferries, catamarans or boat tours before setting sails.
Whether you decide to take a ferry, a catamaran or a private boat, a trip to the islands of the Zadar Archipelago will give you the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Adriatic Sea, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and experience the authentic island life.
Your trip to Croatia doesn’t mean visa headaches either. In most cases, the only form of ID required is a valid passport. And if you’re an EU citizen, you can also use your national ID card. Croatian customs regulations are almost entirely in harmony with EU standards.
Information on travel documents: For more information, please reach any of our diplomatic missions and consular offices abroad or visit the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of the Republic of Croatia.
Information on customs regulations: Croatia is a member of the European Union, meaning that Union citizens can travel to Croatia with no customs or tax restrictions when entering and exiting the country. Citizens of non-EU countries do not pay customs and VAT for personal luggage and items for personal use, as well as smaller gifts, of a reasonable value and amount, of course. Personal luggage is clothing, shoes, hygiene products, portable electronics for personal use, etc. Other, so-called non-commercial, goods are also exempt from any fees, and this includes items and goods meant as smaller gifts, i.e. goods whose value and amount indicates that they are not considered import or export for commercial reasons. There are certain limits, depending on the value of the goods or the manner of transport. For non-commercial goods in personal luggage, this means from 150.00 euro for passengers under 15 years of age, regardless of the manner of transport, and up to 430.00 euro per passenger in air and sea transport, or 300.00 euro in all other modes of transport. Detailed instructions and information can be found on the web-site of the Customs Administration at the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Croatia (Customs Administration – Relief from duties and restrictions carina.gov.hr).
HAK (Croatian Automobile Club) provides an overview of the most needed travel information, such as:
