Crikvenica & Novi Vinodolski

The Mainland Riviera of Kvarner

The Crikvenica and Novi Vinodolski Riviera stretches across the mainland coast directly opposite the island of Krk, forming an important link in the northern Adriatic. This area has been known for more than a century as a holiday retreat, originally developed as a health resort during the Austro - Hungarian era, when the mild climate, long beaches, and fresh sea air were recognized for their therapeutic qualities. Today, Crikvenica is one of the largest coastal resorts in Kvarner, while Novi Vinodolski has grown into a quieter but highly relevant destination thanks to its modern marina. Together, they create a coastline that connects traditional tourism with contemporary yacht charter infrastructure.

Crikvenica itself does not have a large ACI marina, but its harbor serves local boats and visiting yachts. It is commonly used as a stopover point rather than a base for charter fleets, yet its strategic location makes it important for yacht charter itineraries. Being directly opposite Krk Island, with ferry and boat connections across the channel, Crikvenica is often used for transfers to Krk or Rab. Novi Vinodolski, just ten kilometers south, has taken the lead in yachting thanks to the construction of Marina Novi, one of the most advanced marinas in the Adriatic. With a capacity for hundreds of yachts, including luxury vessels, and with full technical services, fuel stations, and on-site accommodation, Marina Novi has quickly positioned itself as a true nautical gateway for the northern Adriatic.

The presence of charter fleets in Novi Vinodolski is growing each year, with sailing yachts, catamarans, and motor yachts available for rent. Catamarans are particularly popular because of their space and stability, making them ideal for family groups exploring nearby Rab and Krk. Motor yachts offer speed and efficiency, while sailing yachts remain the classic choice for week-long cruises across Kvarner. Luxury yachts have also begun to favor Novi Vinodolski, attracted by the modern infrastructure of the marina and the proximity to international transport links.

Accessibility is one of the Riviera’s biggest strengths. Rijeka Airport on the island of Krk lies only twenty-five kilometers away and is connected by the Krk Bridge. Seasonal flights from many European cities make it the main entry point for charter clients arriving here. For those traveling by car, the A7 motorway runs directly behind Crikvenica, connecting to Zagreb, Ljubljana, and Vienna, while Munich, Milan, and Budapest can all be reached in less than a day’s drive. Ferry lines from Valbiska on Krk connect the islands of Cres and Rab, which makes this area particularly practical for itineraries that combine several island destinations.

The history of Crikvenica and Novi Vinodolski underlines their importance in the region. Crikvenica dates back to Roman times, when a settlement known as Ad Turres stood here, but its modern identity comes from the fifteenth century, when the Frankopan family built the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In the nineteenth century, the Austro - Hungarian elite turned Crikvenica into a health resort, building sanatoriums and hotels, and the town still reflects this spa tradition in its long promenades and grand villas. Novi Vinodolski’s history is older still, with the Frankopans making it their administrative center. The famous Vinodol Code of 1288, one of the oldest legal documents written in Glagolitic script, originated here, marking Novi as a place of cultural and historical significance.

Culturally, Crikvenica is lively and modern, filled with cafés, aquariums, family attractions, and long stretches of sandy and pebble beaches. It has a reputation as one of the most family-friendly destinations in Kvarner, making it a popular stop for yacht charter guests with children. Novi Vinodolski, by contrast, is smaller and more traditional, with its narrow alleys, medieval churches, and panoramic views. The presence of Marina Novi adds a touch of luxury and modernity, balancing tradition with contemporary nautical tourism.

Gastronomy along this coast is rich and varied. Seafood dominates menus, with freshly caught fish, Kvarner Bay scampi, calamari, and mussels all widely available. Lamb from Cres and Pag is often served grilled or roasted, while homemade pasta, particularly šurlice, is a local specialty. Olive oil from Krk and Cres enhances every dish, and wine completes the gastronomic experience. The signature variety here is Žlahtina, a crisp white wine from Vrbnik on Krk, though Malvazija from Istria and Teran from the hinterland are also widely available. Local vineyards around Novi Vinodolski still produce small-scale wines, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.

Sailing conditions in this area are favorable for most of the year. The bura, a northeast wind, can be strong in winter and spring, but marinas and anchorages are well sheltered. The maestral, a gentle northwesterly breeze, dominates summer afternoons and creates perfect conditions for short passages between the mainland and islands. The jugo, a southeastern wind, brings rain and waves but is predictable, allowing sailors to plan accordingly. The distances from Marina Novi are ideal for short cruises: Rab is only around fifteen nautical miles away, Supetarska Draga about twelve, Punat on Krk eighteen, and Cres around twenty-five. These routes are short enough for family-friendly sailing and flexible enough for week-long itineraries.

Choosing Crikvenica and Novi Vinodolski as part of a yacht charter is about balance. Crikvenica offers beaches, wellness, and lively tourism, while Novi Vinodolski provides modern marina facilities and direct access to the islands. Both towns are steeped in history, from Roman roots to medieval codes and Austro - Hungarian villas. Together, they create a mainland charter hub that is becoming more popular each season. For guests arriving by air or road, the Riviera provides an easy and elegant way to begin a nautical adventure in the northern Adriatic. With culture, gastronomy, and accessibility on land and a growing network of marinas on the sea, Crikvenica and Novi Vinodolski are fast becoming indispensable names in the world of yacht charter in Croatia.

Marina Novi – A Modern Marina on the Vinodol Coast

Marina Novi is one of the newest marinas in Croatia, located in the picturesque coastal town of Novi Vinodolski. Opened in 2017, this marina has quickly become an important nautical hub in Kvarner, combining modern design, top-notch services, and a strategic position along the Adriatic. For charter clients booking with CroatiaYachts.com, Marina Novi offers a blend of comfort, elegance, and accessibility, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the northern Adriatic and Kvarner islands.

The marina is located directly in the center of Novi Vinodolski, a town known for its long maritime tradition, scenic waterfront, and proximity to both the island of Krk and the Velebit mountain range. The setting is naturally protected, with breakwaters ensuring calm waters inside the marina even during strong winds. This makes Marina Novi a safe and reliable harbor throughout the year.

Marina Novi has around 200 berths for yachts up to 60 meters in length, fully equipped with electricity, water, and WiFi. It also includes dry berths and a modern travel lift, making it suitable for maintenance and technical services. The marina’s design emphasizes modernity and aesthetics, with wide pontoons, organized berthing, and facilities that meet international standards. A fuel station is located on-site, ensuring convenience for motor yachts and longer sailing routes.

One of the standout features of Marina Novi is its integration with a luxury hotel complex. The marina is part of the Novi Resort, which includes a hotel, spa, swimming pools, conference facilities, and restaurants. This makes it particularly attractive to charter guests seeking a seamless combination of nautical services and high-end leisure amenities. Guests can relax in the spa, enjoy fine dining, or host events before or after their charter, making the marina more than just a place to dock a yacht.

Provisioning is easy thanks to the central location. Supermarkets, shops, and local markets in Novi Vinodolski are within walking distance, while restaurants along the waterfront offer fresh seafood, Mediterranean cuisine, and local wines. The Vinodol region is also known for its vineyards and olive oil production, making it a great place to stock up on authentic Croatian products before setting sail.

From a nautical perspective, Marina Novi is ideally positioned for routes to the nearby islands. The island of Krk is just a short sail away, with Marina Punat serving as a popular next stop. From there, crews can continue to Cres, Lošinj, or Rab, making the marina a perfect starting point for week-long island-hopping itineraries. The sailing distances are comfortable, usually between 15 and 25 nautical miles, ensuring relaxed and enjoyable cruising. For longer charters, routes can extend further south into Dalmatia or north toward Istria.

Accessibility is one of Marina Novi’s strongest advantages. It is only 30 kilometers from Rijeka Airport, which provides seasonal flights to many European cities. Zagreb Airport is about two hours away, while Ljubljana and Trieste airports in neighboring countries also provide international access. The marina’s location along the Adriatic highway makes it easily reachable by car from Austria, Slovenia, and northern Italy, which is particularly important for charter clients traveling by road.

The town of Novi Vinodolski itself adds to the appeal. With a long history dating back to medieval times, it offers cultural landmarks such as the Frankopan Castle, churches, and a charming old town with narrow streets and stone houses. The waterfront promenade is ideal for evening walks, and local events during the summer create a lively atmosphere. For those who enjoy nature, the nearby Vinodol Valley and Velebit mountains offer opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wine tours, making the area attractive both by land and sea.

In conclusion, Marina Novi is a modern, elegant, and well-equipped marina that stands out as one of the most advanced in Kvarner. Its integration with a luxury resort, strategic location, and reliable services make it an ideal embarkation point for yacht charters. For clients of CroatiaYachts.com, it provides not only a functional base but also a complete experience that blends nautical adventure with relaxation, culture, and comfort.