These are VERY special times for ferry travel in Novalja!
*Crowd goes WILD!*
Over the last couple of years the island has invested heavily into the development of the Gaj port!
I was down there just a few days ago (as my sons love looking at the "big boats") and it looks like there are now THREE ferry docks which eclipses the singular one in operation over the past few decades!
I'll post some photos soon of the port upgrades shortly but the weather was horrendous the other day and I risked getting blown to the mainland!
Literally!
The winter winds (Bura) are rather naughty this year!
Also remember, before the introduction of the Pag bridge in 1968 Pag island was only accessible by boat. Swimming wasn't a good option!
Joking aside, taking the ferry to Novalja has a long and important history with island and seems to be going from strength to strength.
Planning Taking The Ferry To Novalja?
If you're planning a trip to Croatia, Novalja is a destination you won't want to miss. Situated on the island of Pag, Novalja is a vibrant and picturesque town known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, party with friends on Zrće beach, or explore Croatia's rich culture and history, Novalja has something for everyone.
While there are several ways to reach Novalja, one of the best and most popular ways is by ferry from mainland Croatia. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to catch the ferry from mainland Croatia to Novalja.
We'll provide you with details on the different ferry companies, how to get to the ferry terminal, and what to expect when boarding the ferry. We'll also give you some tips to make your trip more comfortable and highlight the most popular tourist attractions in Novalja.
So, if you're ready to start planning your trip to Novalja, keep reading!
Ferry To Novalja: Choosing Companies
There are several ferry companies that operate between the mainland and Novalja, each with different schedules and prices. It's important to choose the right ferry company that suits your needs, budget, and schedule.
Here are some of the most popular ferry companies and their schedules:
Jadrolinija: Jadrolinija is the largest ferry company in Croatia and operates several ferries to Novalja from the city of Prizna. The ferries run every day and take around 15 minutes to reach Novalja. Prices for a one-way ticket start from around 3 Euros.
G&V Line: G&V Line operates a daily ferry service to Novalja from the city of Rijeka. The ferry takes around 2 hours to reach Novalja and prices for a one-way ticket start from around 10 Euros HRK.
Rapska Plovidba: Rapska Plovidba operates a daily ferry service to Novalja from the city of Stinica. The ferry takes around 1 hour to reach Novalja and prices for a one-way ticket start from around 4 Euros.
When choosing a ferry company, it's important to consider the differences in price and travel time. If you're on a budget and short on time, Jadrolinija may be the best option for you.
However, if you have more time to spare and don't mind spending a bit more, G&V Line or Rapska Plovidba may be a better option.
It's also important to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the peak season from June to August. You can book your tickets online, by phone, or in person at the ferry terminal.
Booking your tickets in advance will not only guarantee your spot on the ferry but also help you avoid long queues and delays.
So, take some time to research the different ferry companies and their schedules, and book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey to Novalja.
Getting to the Ferry Terminal
Novalja is served by several ferry terminals on the mainland, each with different locations and transportation options.
Here's a breakdown of the most popular ferry terminals and how to get to them:
Prizna Ferry Terminal: Located in the village of Prizna, the Prizna ferry terminal is the main point of departure for ferries operated by Jadrolinija. To get to the terminal, you can take a bus from the cities of Senj or Zadar, or hire a taxi from the nearby town of Karlobag.
It's also possible to drive to the terminal and park your car in the nearby parking lot. We recommend arriving at the terminal at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid delays.
Rijeka Ferry Terminal: Located in the city of Rijeka, the Rijeka ferry terminal is the main point of departure for ferries operated by G&V Line. To get to the terminal, you can take a bus or train from other parts of Croatia or hire a taxi.
If you're driving, there are several parking areas near the port terminal. We recommend arriving at the terminal at least 1 hour before departure to avoid delays.
Stinica Ferry Terminal: Located in the village of Stinica, the Stinica ferry terminal is the main point of departure for ferries operated by Rapska Plovidba.
To get to the terminal, you can take a bus from the nearby town of Senj, or hire a taxi. It's also possible to drive to the terminal and park your car in the nearby parking lot.
Again, we recommend arriving at the terminal at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid delays.
When traveling to the ferry terminal, we recommend using public transportation or hiring a taxi, as parking near the terminal can be limited and expensive. It's also important to arrive at the terminal early, especially during the peak season, to avoid delays and ensure a stress-free journey.
So, whether you're departing from Prizna, Rijeka, or Stinica, make sure to plan your transportation in advance, arrive at the terminal early, and enjoy your ferry ride to Novalja.
Boarding The Ferry
Boarding the ferry is an exciting part of the journey, but it's important to know what to expect when you arrive at the terminal. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect when boarding the ferry to Novalja:
Check-In and Luggage Procedures: When you arrive at the ferry terminal, you'll need to check in and show your ticket to the ferry staff. They'll then direct you to the boarding area, where you'll be able to board the ferry.
It's important to note that there are restrictions on the amount of luggage you can bring on board the ferry, so make sure to check the ferry company's website for their luggage policy.
On-Board Amenities: Most ferries to Novalja offer several amenities to make your journey more comfortable.
These amenities can include a cafe or bar, where you can buy food and drinks, as well as toilets and comfortable seating.
Some ferries may also offer outdoor seating or a deck, where you can enjoy the views of the Adriatic Sea. It's important to note that amenities may vary depending on the ferry company and the length of the journey.
Read this next: Renting A Car In Croatia: Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
Tips for a Comfortable Journey: To make your journey to Novalja as comfortable as possible, we recommend bringing a sweater or jacket, as it can get chilly on the ferry. It's also a good idea to bring a book or music to keep you entertained during the journey.
If you're prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking motion sickness medication before boarding the ferry.
Finally, make sure to stay hydrated and bring snacks, as some ferries may not offer food or drinks on board.
Arriving in Novalja
After an enjoyable ferry ride, you'll arrive in Novalja, ready to explore all that this stunning town has to offer. Here's a breakdown of what to expect when you arrive in Novalja:
Disembarking the Ferry: When the ferry arrives in Novalja, you'll need to disembark and collect your luggage. The process for disembarking the ferry can vary depending on the ferry company, so it's important to listen to the instructions provided by the ferry staff. Obviously!
Transportation Options: Novalja offers several transportation options for getting around the town and its surrounding areas. These options include taxis, buses, and rental cars.
Taxis in Novalja are a pretty convenient option, but can be expensive, while buses offer a more affordable option for getting around.
Rental cars are also available, but we recommend checking the local driving laws and regulations before renting a car.
Read this next: Rent A Car Novalja: Your Handy Island Checklist
Taking the Car on the Ferry to Novalja
If you're planning a road trip to Novalja, taking your car on the ferry can be a convenient and exciting way to travel. Here's what you need to know about taking your car on the ferry to Novalja:
Coming By Car? Check Your Route! Not all ferry companies allow cars on board, so it's important to choose the right ferry company that suits your needs. Jadrolinija is the largest ferry company in Croatia and allows cars on board their ferries.
Other ferry companies, such as G&V Line and Rapska Plovidba, may also allow cars on board, but it's important to check with the company before booking your tickets.
Booking Your Tickets: If you're planning to take your car on the ferry to Novalja, it's important to book your tickets in advance, as there may be limited space for cars on board the ferry.
You can book your tickets online, by phone, or in person at the ferry terminal. When booking your tickets, make sure to provide accurate information about your vehicle, including its make and model.
Arriving at the Ferry Terminal: When arriving at the ferry terminal, you'll need to check in and show your ticket to the ferry staff. They'll then direct you to the loading area, where you'll be able to drive your car onto the ferry.
It's important to note that there are restrictions on the size and weight of vehicles that can be loaded onto the ferry, so make sure to check with the ferry company before boarding.
On-Board Amenities: Most ferries to Novalja that allow cars on board offer several amenities to make your journey more comfortable.
These amenities can include toilets (very small!!), comfortable seating, and a cafe or bar where you can buy food and drinks or even a beer if you are not driving. It's important to note that amenities may vary depending on the ferry company and the length of the journey.
Ferry To Novalja: Summary
So all done! Was that helpful? We’ve covered everything you need to know to catch the ferry from mainland Croatia to Novalja. Talked about different ferry companies, how to get to the ferry terminal, what to expect when boarding the ferry, and popular tourist attractions in Novalja.
We've also provided tips on how to make your journey more comfortable, whether you're traveling by foot or taking your car on the ferry.
Traveling by ferry to Novalja is not only convenient and affordable but also an exciting and picturesque way to explore one of Croatia's most popular destinations.
Don't wait any longer to start planning your trip to Novalja - book your ferry tickets in advance, pack your bags, and get ready to experience all that this beautiful town has to offer.