Full Description & Details
Goli otok, meaning "Barren Island," is a stark, rocky island in the Velebit channel between Rab and Krk, part of Primorje-Gorski Kotar County. The island's exposed rock face, stripped of vegetation by strong bura winds, gives it a dramatic, bone-white appearance. It is best known as the site of a former Yugoslav political prison camp, operational from 1949 to 1988, and today the crumbling ruins of the camp, including the Old and Great wire camps, the Petrova Jama (Peter's Cave), and a camp cinema and outdoor theatre, are open to visitors. The island is largely abandoned and reclaimed by nature, with no permanent infrastructure beyond what remains of the prison complex.
The main anchorage is in a slightly sheltered basin on the western side of the island, at the small harbour of Uvala Melna (also called Mala Tetina). The north and south quays offer water depths up to 4 metres, while the east side is silted and shallow. The harbour has stone and concrete breakwaters and quays, with mooring devices and a slipway, but the harbour light is not in operation. Berthing is alongside the piers or quays, which are quite high, about 1.3 to 1.5 metres, but manageable. Holding is not mentioned, but the seabed is silted on the east side, so anchoring there is poor. Overnight stays are restricted; tour boats moor here during the day, leaving limited space for yachts, and after they leave, visiting boats may stay overnight for a fee.
Facilities on the island are minimal. There is a single tavern (konoba) near Uvala Melna harbour, which is the only restaurant on the island, open from late May to the end of September. It offers water, cold drinks, and ice cream. A visitor reception and administration building are also near the port. The island has no other infrastructure, and the port area is described as abandoned and devastated. For provisions or repairs, you would need to go to Rab or the mainland.
Safety considerations include irregular tides of up to 40 cm with unpredictable amplitude and timing, which can affect berthing and disembarkation. The bura wind, especially in winter, can be strong and is a significant factor. The best season for a visit is summer, when the restaurant and cinema are open and the weather is more settled. Be aware that the island is a historical site with many ruins; walking around is possible but there is no shade or water, so come prepared. There are no formalities mentioned for visiting, but the island is Croatian territory, so standard Schengen rules apply.
How to get there
Approach Goli otok from the Velebit channel, heading towards the western side of the island where the harbour of Uvala Melna is located. The harbour is south of the former prison's main gate, and the entrance is straightforward, with the north and south breakwaters providing shelter. The approach is clear of hazards, but be mindful of the silted and shallow east side of the harbour, so keep to the deeper water near the quays.
There is no VHF channel mentioned for the harbour, so contact is not specified; you may need to hail the tavern or simply berth alongside. Land access is by boat only, as the island is deserted and has no regular ferry service. The nearest town is Rab, on the island of Rab, which is a short distance away.
From the harbour, you can walk about 1 km to the main gate of the former prison camp and explore the ruins on foot. There is no airport on the island; the nearest major airport is Rijeka Airport on the mainland, about 60 km away. Formalities are not detailed, but as a Croatian island, standard entry procedures for yachts apply if arriving from abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth at Goli otok anchorage?
The maximum depth at the quays in Uvala Melna harbour on Goli otok is 4 metres, with the north and south quays offering this depth, while the east side is silted and shallow.
Can I stay overnight at Goli otok?
Overnight stays at Goli otok are restricted. Tour boats moor during the day, and after they leave, visiting boats may stay overnight for a fee, but space is limited.
Is there a restaurant or facilities on Goli otok?
There is a single tavern (konoba) near Uvala Melna harbour, open from late May to the end of September, offering water, cold drinks, and ice cream. No other facilities are available on the island.
What are the main hazards when anchoring at Goli otok?
The main hazards are irregular tides of up to 40 cm with unpredictable timing, and the strong bura wind, especially in winter. The east side of the harbour is silted and shallow, so avoid anchoring there.
What is the best time to visit Goli otok by boat?
The best time is during the summer season, from late May to the end of September, when the restaurant and cinema are open and the weather is more settled.
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