ZAVRATNICA

• Latitude: 44.6993
• Longitude: 14.9012
• Adriatic Sea
• Marina in Croatia

Location: Croatia

Description:

Zavratnica, often referred to as Marina Zavratnica, is a stunning bay located near the village of Jablanac, which is on the Croatian mainland close to the island of Rab. Nestled in the Velebit Nature Park, this narrow and winding inlet is renowned for its natural beauty, steep cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. Zavratnica is not a marina in the conventional sense but more of a picturesque anchorage spot for small boats and yachts.

Key Features:

1. Natural Beauty:

   • The bay is about 900 meters long and up to 200 meters wide.
   • It is flanked by steep cliffs that rise to about 100 meters, creating a dramatic landscape.
   • The water is pristine, reflecting the surrounding limestone cliffs and lush greenery.

2. Accessibility:

   • Zavratnica can be accessed by a scenic hiking trail from the nearby village of Jablanac, taking roughly 20-30 minutes.
   • It is also accessible by boat, making it a popular stop for sailors exploring the Adriatic Sea.

3. Historical Significance:

   • During World War II, a German transport ship was sunk in the waters of Zavratnica, and its remains can still be seen beneath the clear water, making it a point of interest for history buffs and divers.

4. Activities:

   • Swimming: The clear, calm waters are perfect for swimming.
   • Hiking: The surrounding trails offer breathtaking views of the bay and the Adriatic Sea.
   • Snorkeling & Diving: Due to the transparency of the water, snorkeling and diving are popular activities, especially around the wreckage of the German ship.

Specifications for Boaters:

1. Anchoring:

   • Due to its size, Zavratnica is suitable for small boats and yachts.
   • There are no official berths or docking facilities, so anchoring is done directly in the bay.
   • Boat captains should ensure they are anchoring in designated areas to protect the underwater ecosystems.

2. Mooring:

   • No dedicated mooring buoys or lines are available in Zavratnica.

3. Facilities:

   • There are no facilities for refueling, freshwater, or electricity.
   • It is recommended to visit Zavratnica as a day trip for boats, as overnight anchoring might be limited by weather conditions and local regulations.

4. Regulations:

   • As Zavratnica is part of Velebit Nature Park, strict regulations may apply to protect the environment. Visitors and boaters should respect local guidelines to preserve the natural beauty and ecological balance of the area.

5. Entry Fees:

   • There might be an entry fee to access the hiking trail leading to Zavratnica, as it is part of the protected Velebit Nature Park area.

Nearby Services:

• The closest village, Jablanac, offers limited amenities including small shops and restaurants. For more extensive services, one might need to travel to the nearby town of Senj or the island of Rab.

Overall, Zavratnica is a hidden gem on the Croatian coastline, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers seeking a serene and picturesque anchorage spot.