A night in Zavratnica cove, 22 June

We spent the shortest night of the year in Zavratnica (pronounce Zavratnitsa) cove, a well preserved secret 40 km south of Senj, along the Dalmatian coast. We were advised by my cousins who explored the coast in a camping car and with whom we sailed to the Kornati (see earlier posts). 

Belisama in the Zavratnica cove, from the trail to Jablanac

This place is documented in Navily, the community forum for sailors looking for anchorages...

A night ride to Rab, 20-21 June

With the need to return to Pula by the end of the week—and a forecasted storm approaching—we decided on a one-shot night sail from Šibenik to Rab, a 90-nautical-mile passage. Our decision was guided by the forecast of a moderate Bora event, with wind speeds around 14 m/s (28 knots), which we expected would allow us to maintain a steady 7 to 8 knots under sail, significantly shortening the time needed to cover the distance.

Passing Sibenik at night

It worked as expected: under two reefs and the staysail, we made good speed through the night. However, the Bora lasted much longer than anticipated, extending well into the next day. While the boat handled the conditions well, the prolonged exposure to strong winds and confused seas made for a demanding passage...