Rab island, one of the greenest islands in the Adriatic, is a haven for sailors and nature lovers.
Stretching 14 miles northwest to southeast, the island is separated from the mainland by the Velebit channel. Cruising visitors typically moor at the ACI Marina or anchor in Uvala Sveta Fumija, and there is also the town quay. CA member Elizabeth Thorp, who visited in June 2024, shares a detailed report on CAptain’s Mate. She notes that, "If approaching from the west there are several small white unlit fishing floats outside Uvala Matovica."
During her stay, Elizabeth moored at the 132-berth ACI Marina. Conditions were light, so the marina’s shelter capabilities were not evaluated. However, she observed, "I can understand why the Adriatic Pilot (8th Edition) says if strong southerly winds are forecast seek shelter elsewhere."
In terms of facilities, Elizabeth highlights that there is a "useful chandlery Aurani beside the marina. Our wireless wind instrument (Tacktick) stopped working as we arrived and began again as we left, as has done in some other harbours - we guess, related to 5G mobile masts.
"A large Konzum supermarket at the NW corner of the harbour is particularly convenient. Bakeries in the old town seem to major on Rab cake!"
Elizabeth also recommends exploring the town, noting, "Absolutely stunning views from the balcony at the top of the southern-most bell tower, highly recommended."
For those considering mooring on the seaward half of the south-west quay, it offers easy access to Rab town. Elizabeth’s report explains that there are lazy lines from rings in the wall, which start just inshore of the Astoria Hotel and extend to the inshore end of the row of white/yellow-painted buildings. However, picking up the lines can be tricky without assistance.
Members visiting Croatia are also supported by two of the CA’s Honorary Local Representatives (HLR). Members can find their contact details on the HLR information page.
The CA’s Mediterranean Section in conjunction with London Section recently held a webinar on 'Cruising through Croatia' presented by Elizabeth and Charles Thorp. Members can login to watch the recording here. For more information about Croatia and other Mediterranean destinations, members are encouraged to explore CAptain’s Mate and the CA website.
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CAptain’s Mate of the Month locations
Each month we feature a CAptain’s Mate location to inspire your cruising adventures and display the vast depth of information on the app. We kicked off 2025 with:
- January - Palmeira, Ilha do Sal, Cape Verde
- February- Christiansø, Denmark
- March - Muxia, Spain
27 March 2025