Zapuntel (Zapuntello) is located on the island of Molat (Melada), which is part of the Zadar Archipelago. The town is a good choice for mooring, as it offers an excellent alternative to the port of Ist, which is often crowded during the summer. It consists of the area adjacent to the pier and the historic center that climbs up the hill. From here, a road provides easy access to all the island’s settlements. The island’s economy, in addition to tourism, is heavily tied to agriculture and fishing. For those who appreciate nature and tranquility, this location is perfect; for those seeking a more active vacation, a stop here is not recommended.

The island covers just over 20 square kilometers and is home to 200 residents. Tourists who love the Mediterranean scrub can enjoy walks through the greenery, particularly admiring the variety of flowers; in the past, honey was produced on the island (hence its name), and there is also an abundance of rosemary. The island’s flora and fauna have remained untouched; there are few tourists, and concrete has not yet made its way here.

At the port of Zapuntel, there are numerous buoys, which can also be found in Mljake Bay directly across from it. The head of the pier is reserved for the ferry, while the rest of the pier has a few available berths where the water depth is 3 meters. There are also berths available at the inner pier on the west side, though the water depth there is only 1.5 meters.

We recommend that you study the chart carefully, given the numerous hazards in the strait, such as shoals, rocks, and islets. Also, when maneuvering, keep in mind that the current here can reach 3 knots.

When entering the harbor while approaching the strait from the south, follow the white and red flashing light (4 seconds); once you are about half a mile from the strait, keep to the right—you will see the isolated danger mark consisting of two overlapping black spheres on the left. When approaching the strait from the north, follow the white flashing light (2 seconds).

Be especially careful of strong bora winds, which can cause rip currents. This wind is found along the entire Adriatic coast and can blow suddenly from the northeast. The gusts are particularly violent when the weather is clear; the difference in pressure and temperature between the interior of the continent and the coast creates this wind—the greater the difference, the more intense the wind will be. During the summer, the bora is less intense than in winter and typically lasts from one to a maximum of three days, though it often subsides within a few hours. Do not attempt to cross the strait between the islands of Ist and Molat when the bora is blowing.