From anchorage to oyster platter: culinary delights for your Dalmatian cruise

Culinary Cruising - what are our Top 5 Konobas in Middle Dalmatia?

The Dalmatian coast is a paradise for sailors – dotted with countless islands, sheltered bays, historic sites and crystal-clear water. But if you just stick to your course between stops, you'll miss something essential: the taste of Dalmatia. Hidden bays and small harbour towns are home to culinary gems that are often only accessible by boat. All of them can be easily reached from Šibenik, Skradin or Trogir. What unites them is honest cuisine, regional ingredients and hosts who want to not only feed their guests but also make them happy on their yacht charter Dalmatia .

Our crew member Peter Kollmann-Jehle has summarised his experiences from his last Dalmatia cruises and compiled his personal top 5 for us:

1. Sedmo Nebo – Kakan: Heaven on earth

You are so close to seventh heaven here, and the operators of Sedmo Nebo are certain that it can be found on Kakan, no question about it. One of the most rustic konobas in the region, with pavilion-style terraces. Here, the fish is caught early in the morning and prepared in the evening. Excellent fish and authentic Dalmatian cuisine, seafood, squid and shellfish. Very friendly service and magnificent views.

Directions: The konoba is located in a sheltered bay on the east side of Kakan, west of Kaprije. There are several anchor buoys in front of the restaurant, as well as a small jetty for dinghies. Yachts anchor in the bay and transfer by dinghy. A short walk leads to the elevated terrace.

Coordinates: 43°41'12.8‘N 15°39'22.1’E

Reservations: Recommended by telephone the day before – +385 958 876 019

2. Konoba Aldura – Zlarin: island cuisine with soul

Zlarin, the car-free coral island off Šibenik, is a place where time passes more slowly. Konoba Aldura is located on the waterfront promenade, just a few steps from the water.

The atmosphere is relaxed, with good tuna and octopus from the grill. Beer on tap

Approach: The harbour of Zlarin offers well-protected moorings with mooring lines. The konoba is located directly on the promenade in the northern part of the harbour, just a few steps from the jetties.

Coordinates: 43°41'42.0‘N 15°49'50.0’E

Reservations: By telephone on +385 22 553 628

3. Konoba Piccolo – Smokvica: Small but mighty

Smokvica is one of many small, undeveloped islands. Konoba Piccolo, a family-run restaurant serving fantastic fish and steak in clay pots, is located in a quiet bay.

How to get there: Konoba Piccolo is located in Uvala Lojena bay on the south side of the island of Smokvica Vela. Its own jetty offers space for several yachts with a water depth of up to 2.5 metres. There are also a few buoys available.

Coordinates: 43°39'55.0‘N 15°20'20.0’E

Reservations: By telephone +385 22 436 505 +385 98 237 136

4. Konoba Vidrovača – near Skradin: where the river meets the kitchen

A little way upstream from Skradin, just before the Krka enters the national park, Konoba Vidrovača is located on a wooded bank. Only accessible by boat, it is the perfect stop for anyone visiting the Krka waterfalls who doesn't want to miss out on culinary delights. Recommendation: Fresh fish, scallops au gratin or homemade pasta with scampi.

How to get there: The konoba has its own pier  with 24 moorings. Suitable for yachts up to 30 metres in length, water depth 2–6 metres. Electricity and water are available.

Coordinates: 43°48'21.18‘N 15°54'44.32’E

Reservations: Be sure to book by phone on +385 98 757281            Website

5. Konoba Toni – Primošten: Urban flair, maritime cuisine

Primošten, located between Šibenik and Trogir, is a popular stopover for sailors – not only because of its well-protected harbour, but also because of its charming town centre. Tucked away in a narrow alley is Tavern Toni, a small, stylishly decorated restaurant focusing on high-quality seafood.

How to get there: The town harbour of Primošten offers moorings, but is very busy in summer. Alternatively, Marina Kremik is a little further away, but a shuttle service is available.

Coordinates: 43°35'40.0‘N 15°55'48.0’E

Reservations: Recommended – by telephone on +385 95 850 8541

Culinary delights under sail

A boat rental along the Dalmatian coast is not only a nature experience, but also a culinary journey of discovery. Whether you prefer a rustic konoba or an elegant trattoria, freshly caught fish from the grill or lovingly prepared classics, if you sail with an open heart and an adventurous palate, you will find not only the most beautiful bays between Šibenik, Skradin and Trogir, but also the best food.