PADDLER 71
One of Šilo’ s unique advantages for sea kayak training is its substantial sea wall. On windy days with a dynamic sea state, the team made great use of this feature for progressive skills development, offering a safe yet challenging environment in which to practice leadership, rescues, and boat handling in real-world conditions.
Beyond the water, Šilo is also an excellent base for those who enjoy land-based activities. Wooded biking and hiking tracks exit the village north westwards, winding through scenic landscapes and offering excellent routes for running, cycling, or simply exploring the natural beauty of Krk. These trails provide a perfect way to start the day with a morning run / walk or unwind after a journey on the sea, making Šilo a wellrounded hub for adventure and relaxation alike.
WILDLIFE & ECOSYSTEMS
Krk’ s rich marine and coastal ecosystems offer sea kayakers fantastic opportunities for wildlife encounters. The island’ s waters support a variety of fish species, including the excellent Atlantic bluefin tuna. Lucky paddlers may also see dolphins playing nearby or catch glimpses of sea turtles surfacing alongside their kayaks. The rocky shores and cliffs are home to seabirds such as cormorants, Adriatic gulls, and the occasional buzzard or peregrine falcon. Among Krk’ s most impressive residents is the Eurasian griffon vulture – these majestic birds, with wingspans reaching up to nine feet( rivalling the Scottish whitetailed eagle), are often seen soaring above the island’ s dramatic cliffs and riding thermals over groups of anxious-looking sheep. Inland, Krk supports populations of wild boar, deer, and a remarkable diversity of birdlife, with 222 species recorded by Observation. org.
ŠILO: THE HOME BASE FOR EXPLORATION
Felfedezők Explorers Sea Kayaking’ s base on Krk is the welcoming village of Šilo, located on the island’ s sheltered northeastern coast. Šilo offers a wide range of comfortable studio and apartment accommodations, making it an ideal spot for visiting paddlers and groups. The village itself is charming and relaxed, with easy access to the sea and all the essentials close at hand – perfect for both training and winding down after a day on the water.
OUR FAVOURITE SEA KAYAKING TRIPS ON KRK
Krk offers an exceptional variety of sea kayaking routes, each with its character and set of challenges. Among our favourite trips are three standouts that showcase the island’ s dynamic coastline, technical paddling opportunities, and breathtaking scenery:
NORTHWARDS FROM PLAŽA SVETI MARAK:
Launching from the sheltered beach at Sveti Marak and its useful harbour wall, this route heads north around a distinctive, technical headland. The area is renowned for its excellent performance in dynamic sea conditions, making it an ideal setting for practising boat handling in rough water. The headland just beyond the sea wall offers a mix of rock gardens and wave action, delivering both excitement and a chance to refine skills in a progressively challenging environment.
SOUTHWESTWARDS FROM VRBNIK:
Departing from the picturesque harbour of Vrbnik – a town perched dramatically above the sea – this trip explores a stunning stretch of coastline. The route features impressive cliffs, hidden coves, and crystalclear waters, offering numerous opportunities to land and explore. Vrbnik itself is worth visiting for its historic charm and vibrant local culture, making this trip a favourite for combining paddling with a taste of Krk’ s unique heritage. We certainly had our best postkayaking beers here.
PADDLER 71