Ferry to Novalja

Compare all available ferry crossings and secure the best deals for your journey. At Openferry, we make it easy to find and book ferry tickets to and from Novalja in just a few clicks.

Because ferry travel can be seasonal, frequencies and departure times often change throughout the year. We recommend using our live search to see the most accurate schedules and information for your travel dates including:

Popular Connections: The port of Novalja connects to several high-traffic destinations, including -.

Top-Tier Operators: Regular services to and from Novalja are provided by leading carriers like Jadrolinija.

Amenities vary depending on the specific vessel and operator, but most ferries serving Novalja feature:

Comfortable Seating: Options ranging from standard lounges to premium airplane-style seats.

Dining & Leisure: Onboard cafés and restaurants serving food and drinks.

Travel Essentials: Restroom facilities and, on longer routes, private cabins for added privacy.

Vehicle Transport: Most sailings accommodate cars, motorbikes, and campervans, allowing you to take your own transport to Novalja.

Novalja is currently served by 1 ferry route operated by Jadrolinija.

Novalja is easily accessible via the mainland ferry connections from Prizna to Žigljen, with crossings operating regularly throughout the day and taking approximately 15 minutes. Travelers can drive to the ferry terminal via the coastal highway from either Split (3 hours south) or Rijeka (2 hours north). Bus services connect major Croatian cities to Novalja, with connections from Zagreb taking approximately 4-5 hours. For international visitors, the nearest airports are Zadar (about 1.5 hours away) and Rijeka (about 2 hours away), both offering shuttle services to ferry terminals. Ample parking is available near the ferry port for those arriving by car.

Nestled on the northern coast of Pag Island, Novalja blends Mediterranean charm with vibrant coastal energy. This Croatian paradise offers crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and a fascinating blend of historical sites alongside modern attractions. As a key ferry destination in the Adriatic, Novalja serves as both a stunning vacation spot and a gateway to exploring Croatia's celebrated island landscape.

Novalja enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters. The peak tourist season runs from June to August when temperatures hover between 25-30°C, perfect for beach activities and swimming in the crystal-clear Adriatic. May and September offer particularly pleasant conditions with warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and reduced accommodation rates. Ferry services operate most frequently during summer months, with some routes reducing schedules in the off-season. Winter visitors will find a quieter, more authentic experience, though some restaurants and attractions may have limited hours.

From Novalja, the stunning island of Rab is just a 1.5-hour ferry journey away, offering medieval architecture and lush forests alongside beautiful beaches. The island of Lošinj, reached in about 2 hours by catamaran (seasonal service), entices visitors with its aromatherapy gardens, dolphin-watching opportunities, and elegant harbor towns. Adventurous travelers can connect to Silba, a car-free island paradise with tranquil beaches and laid-back atmosphere, approximately 1 hour from Novalja by seasonal ferry. The mainland coastal city of Zadar, with its famous Sea Organ and Roman ruins, is accessible via a scenic 2-hour ferry route that provides breathtaking views of the Velebit mountain range.

Zrće Beach stands as Novalja's crown jewel, famous for its crystal-clear waters and lively beach clubs that have earned it the nickname 'Croatia's Ibiza.' History enthusiasts should explore the ancient Roman aqueduct, a remarkable 1st-century engineering feat that runs beneath the town. The town's Archaeological Museum houses fascinating artifacts from the region's rich past, including remnants from sunken Roman ships. For culinary delights, sample local specialties like Pag cheese (made from sheep milk on the island) and fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants in the old town harbor. Just outside town, olive groves and vineyards offer tasting opportunities and a glimpse into traditional island agriculture.

The waters around Novalja contain over 30 ancient shipwrecks, making it a treasure trove for underwater archaeology enthusiasts. The island's unique landscape is shaped by the strong Bora wind, which has created an almost lunar appearance on parts of Pag and contributed to the distinctive flavor of the island's famous cheese. Novalja's Roman aqueduct, locally called 'Talijanova buža' (Italian hole), stretches for nearly 1,200 meters and was carved through solid rock by hand. The town's name derives from Latin 'Navalia,' meaning 'port' or 'shipyard,' reflecting its ancient maritime importance.