Silba Ferries

The port of Silba plays a key role in the ferry network of Croatia, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 3 ferry routes operated by 1 ferry companies, Silba serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Silba, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Pula - Silba, Unije - Silba connecting Silba with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Krilo Kapetan Luka run regular services from Silba, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Silba offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Silba is accessible year-round via ferry services from Zadar on the mainland, with journeys taking approximately 2-3 hours depending on the vessel type and weather conditions. During summer months, additional ferry connections operate from other coastal cities including Rijeka and Split. Public buses connect Zadar's main bus station to the ferry terminal, making transfers straightforward for travelers arriving by coach. If arriving by car, several parking facilities are available near Zadar's ferry port where vehicles can be safely left during your island stay. Remember that no vehicles are permitted on Silba itself, so pack accordingly with luggage you can easily carry.

Silba, a small island in the Zadar archipelago of Croatia, offers a peaceful retreat where time seems to stand still. This tranquil haven is entirely free of cars, creating a uniquely serene atmosphere where the only sounds are those of nature and gentle conversation. Accessible exclusively by ferry, Silba's pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and Mediterranean charm make it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of mainland life.

Silba enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, somewhat rainy winters. The peak season runs from June through September when temperatures average 25-30°C (77-86°F), perfect for swimming and sunbathing on the island's beautiful beaches. May and October offer pleasant temperatures with fewer visitors, making these months ideal for those seeking a quieter experience while still enjoying good weather. Ferry services run more frequently during summer months, with reduced schedules in the off-season. Winter visits reveal a different side of island life when local traditions come to the fore, though some restaurants and accommodations may be closed.

Silba serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding Zadar archipelago. From here, you can catch ferries to neighboring Olib, just 20 minutes away, where ancient olive groves and untouched beaches await. The island of Premuda, reachable in about 30 minutes, offers some of Croatia's best diving spots including the famous Cathedral cave. Slightly further afield, the larger island of Dugi Otok (approximately 1 hour by ferry) rewards visitors with the stunning Telašćica Nature Park and Sakarun beach. These island connections make Silba a perfect base for experiencing the diverse natural beauty of Croatia's northern Dalmatian islands.

Silba's pedestrian-only environment invites visitors to slow down and embrace a simpler pace of life. The island's main village features charming stone houses and narrow streets that lead to Toreta, a unique hexagonal tower offering panoramic views across the island and sea. Beach lovers will appreciate the variety of swimming spots, from sandy Sotorišće Bay to the rocky coves along the eastern shore. Culinary experiences center around fresh seafood, with local restaurants serving daily catches paired with island-grown produce and Croatian wines. Don't miss exploring the network of walking paths that crisscross the island, connecting secluded beaches with fragrant pine forests and offering glimpses into traditional island agriculture.

Silba's most distinctive landmark, the Toreta tower, was built in the 19th century by a sea captain as a vantage point to watch for his beloved's return – a testament to the island's romantic spirit. The island's name derives from the Latin word 'silva' meaning forest, reflecting the pine woodlands that have covered Silba since ancient times. Unlike many Adriatic islands, Silba has no ancient Greek or Roman ruins, having been primarily settled by Croats in the medieval period. The island maintains a strong maritime tradition, with many families tracing their ancestry to sea captains who built the elegant stone houses still standing in the main village.