Punat Marina (Marina Punat)

Marina Punat is one of the largest and best-equipped marinas on the Croatian Adriatic, set at the head of Punat Bay on the island of Krk, a deep, sheltered inlet on the western side of the island where the water is calm in almost any weather. The bay is surrounded by low hills and is dotted with the small islet of Košljun, with its Franciscan monastery, and the town of Punat sits on the shore. For sailors, the location is ideal, since it lies close to the Kvarner islands of Cres, Rab and Lošinj and within a day's sail of much of the northern Adriatic.

The marina combines a berth for visiting yachts with a large boatyard, which is among the most important on this part of the coast. Boats are lifted, repaired, painted and stored here through the winter, and the sight of hulls on stands under cover in the off-season is a reminder that Punat has long been a seafaring community. The shipyard tradition goes back to the days of wooden boats, and the town still has a reputation for skilled craftsmen. In summer, the marina fills with charter yachts and private vessels from across Europe, and the quay is a busy, cosmopolitan place, with languages of many countries heard in the cafes.

The marina has long been recognised for its environmental standards and is regularly awarded the Blue Flag, an international label for clean water, safe facilities and responsible management, which is flown at the entrance. The services include water and electricity at berths, fuel, showers, laundry, provisioning and technical support, and the staff are known for being helpful to newcomers. On the shore, a number of restaurants serve fresh fish and Kvarner specialities, among them a marina restaurant that has received recognition in a regional restaurant guide, and in summer, the marina organises a programme of events, including festivals, concerts and theatre evenings, which bring the waterfront to life.

For those who are not sailing, the marina is still a pleasant place to visit. A walk along the quay and the waterfront promenade, called the Lungomare, gives views over the bay, the boats and the islet of Košljun, which can be reached by a small boat from the harbour. A free shuttle carries marina guests to Medane beach, a pebble beach with calm water a short distance away, and nearby hotels offer pools. The beach bar called Ulika, an archaeological site known as Mir, and an underwater park, all listed in this guide, are further options.

Check the details of mooring and shuttle services with the marina directly, since they change from season to season. The marina suits sailors, boat lovers and anyone who enjoys harbour atmosphere. Allow thirty minutes to an hour for a stroll, or longer with a meal.