Useful Information

LJUBACKA VRATA

LJUBACKA VRATA (44° 20'N; 15° 16'E), passage connecting Velebitski kanal with Ljubacki zaljev.

Approach: Ljubacka vrata passage can be entered only by day and only by vessels with masts less than 30m high. When approaching Ljubacka vrata from Velebitski kanal, give Tanka nozica point a wide berth because it is fringed by a shoal.

Orientation. Landmarks: the bridge connecting the mainland with the island of Pag, the pyramidal stone tower with a gallery (white light) on Tanka nozica point, the quadrangular tower with a red top (red light) on Fortica point and the quadrangular tower with a green top (green light) on Ostrljak point.

Special directions for navigation in the passage. Vessels larger than 50 GRT and trawlers regardless of tonnage must give a long signal on the whistle or siren before entering Ljubacka vrata. The ship which has given the signal first has right of way, unless another ship is already in the passage. The latter must in that case reply with at least four short blasts. This signalling does not apply in foggy or overcast weather, when the regulations for avoiding collision at sea apply.

The most dangerous wind in Ljubacka vrata is the bora, which blows with gale force from various directions and causes a strong chop. The current from Velebitski kanal normally attains a rate of 1 knot, exceptionally 23 knots.

Sights: In the village of Ljubac: an Illyrian castle and several tombs, the early medieval Sv Ivan church (St John). On Ljubljana point: the ruins of the early medieval residence of the Templars with Sv Marija church (12/13 C).