Full Description & Details
Bozava sits on the northern shore of Dugi Otok in a protected bay facing the calm waters between the Zadar archipelago and the open Adriatic. This municipal harbour—not a privately operated marina—provides a modest, well-maintained facility surrounded by pine forest and clear water. The village of Bozava, with perhaps 100 permanent residents, offers a tranquil escape on Croatia's longest outer island, serving both as a gateway to Dugi Otok's natural features and a destination for sailors seeking quiet on the northern Dalmatian coast.
The harbour provides approximately 10–15 berths along two quay sections (160 m and 38 m) with stern-to mooring using laid lines behind the breakwater. Depths range from 2 metres at the root of the quay to around 8 metres at the outer end. The facility can accommodate vessels up to 20 metres LOA with drafts up to 8 metres. Shore power and fresh water are available on the quay, and sanitary facilities are basic but functional. The harbour offers good shelter from all directions except southeast (Jugo), which can create swell, and occasional northwest squalls. During stormy Jugo conditions, the port can become choppy with swell pulling behind the breakwater.
The village provides essential services including a grocery store, bakery, fruit and vegetable market, and various restaurants. An ATM is available at the port. There is no fuel berth in Bozava—the nearest fuelling options are in Zadar or Sali. In high season (July and August), the limited berths can fill by late afternoon, though in May, June, and September the harbour is unlikely to be more than half full.
Bozava serves as a seasonal port of entry during summer months. Services including water, electricity, showers and toilets may not be available out of season. The harbour's proximity to Sakarun beach (6 nautical miles) and Telascica Nature Park makes it popular with boats exploring Dugi Otok's attractions.
How to get there
The approach to Bozava from the west or north is straightforward, with the bay opening broadly and well charted. A green-lit breakwater marks the harbour entrance. The white-painted light structure on the headland of Rt Sv Nedjelja at the north entrance to the inlet is conspicuous from some distance.
Depths in the approach are considerable until nearing the harbour entrance, where depths reduce to 7.0–8.0 metres. Stern-to berthing with laid mooring lines is standard. In season, a harbour attendant may be available during peak season.
VHF channel 17 is monitored. Bozava is accessible via Zadar airport followed by ferry or boat to Dugi Otok. The island is also reachable by road through Croatia followed by a ferry journey.
Mariners should be attentive when the Jugo wind is blowing, as it can make sailing in and out challenging. The entrance is narrow, and sailors should be wary of shallow waters situated 0.8 miles southeast of the harbour. Dangerous squalls from the northwest are possible, though they rarely blow with strength in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many berths are available at Bozava harbour?
Bozava harbour provides approximately 10–15 berths along two quay sections with stern-to mooring using laid lines.
What is the maximum depth at Bozava harbour?
Depths at Bozava range from 2 metres at the root of the quay to around 8 metres at the outer end, with approach depths of 7.0–8.0 metres.
What is the maximum draft accepted at Bozava?
Bozava can accommodate vessels with drafts up to 8 metres, though shallower berths along the north quay are around 2 metres or less.
Is overnight mooring permitted at Bozava harbour?
Yes, overnight mooring is permitted at Bozava, which serves as a seasonal port of entry during summer months.
What VHF channel does Bozava harbour monitor?
Bozava harbour monitors VHF channel 17.
What facilities are available at Bozava harbour?
Bozava provides shore power and fresh water on the quay, with basic sanitary facilities. The village offers restaurants, grocery store, bakery, and an ATM. There is no fuel berth—nearest fuelling is in Zadar or Sali.
What is the price range for mooring at Bozava?
Bozava is in the € price band, with OSM data indicating approximately 2.4 EUR per metre. A 15-metre vessel paid 420 Kn in May 2014 including electricity and water.
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