Istria, what a passion: a week on a catamaran

First day

First sail toward the Slovenian coast
After boarding in Monfalcone and making preparations on board, we set sail toward the charming Slovenian coast. The catamaran glides across the Adriatic as we approach the first cliffs of Istria.
In the late afternoon, we drop anchor in the bay in front of the Strunjan Nature Park, not far from Piran, one of the wildest corners of the Slovenian coast. Here the sea is crystal-clear and nature reaches almost to the water’s edge: those who wish can swim directly from the catamaran to the shore to explore the small bay. As the sun sets over the sea, it’s the perfect time to relax in the cockpit, perhaps with a shared aperitif. The first evening on board passes peacefully amid conversation, the sea, and the slow rhythm of life at sea.

Second day

Toward Novigrad
We leave the Slovenian coast and continue southward, venturing deeper and deeper into heart of Istria. The morning is perfect for sailing along a rugged coastline of low cliffs, pine forests, and small bays where the water quickly becomes crystal clear. Before arriving in Novigrad , we stop for a swim in one of the coves in the area of Dajla or Karpinjan, ideal for a dip and some relaxation. Those who wish can simply enjoy the sun on the catamaran’s spacious deck, while those who prefer the water can swim or snorkel. In the afternoon, we reach Novigrad – Cittanova. Its small historic center is cozy and lively: stone-paved alleys, bars, and small restaurants lining the harbor. Here, the atmosphere is authentic and relaxed, perfect for an evening stroll.

Third day

The Istrian Archipelagos and Then Rovinj
We leave Novigrad and continue south through Poreč and Vrsar, where the sea opens up into a small archipelago of green islets and tranquil bays. During the morning, we can stop at the islands of St. Nicholas or in the Leme Channel, a long and scenic inlet that almost resembles a Nordic fjord. Here the sea is calm and clear, ideal for a swim or for relaxing on board the catamaran. In the afternoon we reach the archipelago off Rovinj and we can’t miss a stop in the area ofIsola Rossa or among the small islets dotting the sea just outside the harbor. Then we enter the bay of Rovinj, one of the most charming towns on the Adriatic. The evening is perfect for getting lost in the narrow streets of the old town, enjoying the sunset over the sea, and stopping for a drink at one of the bars along the waterfront.

Fourth day

Pula and the Brijuni Islands
We leave Rovinj and head to Pula. The entrance to the harbor is spectacular: dominating the scene is the imposing Roman Arena, one of the best-preserved amphitheaters in the world, which welcomes those arriving by sea. After mooring, we can stroll through the historic center among Roman ruins, lively squares, and narrow streets where you can feel the Mediterranean soul of the city. In the afternoon, we set sail again to reach the Brijuni Islands National Park, an archipelago nestled in a protected natural setting of pine forests, green meadows, and crystal-clear waters. Once we arrive, we can go ashore and explore Veliki Brijun on foot or by bicycle, through shaded avenues, Roman archaeological ruins, and panoramic views of the Adriatic. At sunset, we return to the catamaran to enjoy the silence of the nature park, with the option of spending the night in port or
at anchor.

Fifth day

Poreč: Where History Meets the Sea
We leave southern Istria and head north again, sailing along stretches of clear sea and small bays. The route takes us to Poreč one of the most elegant towns on the Istrian coast, lively and rich in history. Strolling through stone-paved alleys, small squares, and shops, you arrive at the monument to the Euphrasian Basilica, a Byzantine masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Poreč is also a pleasant place to spend the evening. The waterfront and the squares in the center come alive with bars, small restaurants, and clubs where you can stop for an aperitif or a dinner featuring seafood and Istrian specialties. Alternatively, we can return to the catamaran and enjoy a quiet evening in the harbor, with the sea just a few steps away and the illuminated historic center before us.

Sixth day

Final leg to Piran
We leave Poreč and, sailing along the western tip of Istria, pass near the Punta Salvore Lighthouse, the oldest in the Adriatic. Here the sea opens up toward the Gulf of Trieste , and the voyage offers wide, bright views. Continuing toward Slovenia, we arrive in front of Piran, one of the most charming towns on the Adriatic coast. Its historic center bears a Venetian influence, with a square overlooking the sea and a bell tower reminiscent of St. Mark’s. For our final evening, we choose a quiet cove off the coast of Piran, with the illuminated city not far away. It’s the perfect moment to relax on board, dine together, and reflect on the week just passed. The night passes gently, lulled by the sea, before we head back to the port of departure.

Seventh day

Return to Monfalcone and Disembarkation
On our last morning, we enjoy a few more miles of sailing. We leave the harbor off Piran and set course for Italy, crossing the Gulf of Trieste until we re-enter the port of Monfalcone, where our week on the catamaran comes to an end. These have been days of sailing and discovery along the Istrian coast: from the first coastal waters of Slovenia to the historic villages of Istria, from the islands of the Brijuni National Park to the imposing Roman Arena in Pula, not to mention stops in Rovinj, Poreč and the many bays we encountered along the way. We disembark leisurely after saying goodbye to the skipper and our fellow travelers. A leisurely journey that allowed us to discover Istria from its most beautiful perspective: that of the sea.