Martinšćica, known as San Martino in Italian, is a very small tourist town on the western side of the island of Cres. The harbor has few berths, consisting of mooring buoys, and offers basic services such as water and electricity. There are three piers: two to the east, of which the southernmost is used by the ferry to Rijeka, and the northernmost has a depth of 1–2 meters; therefore, it is recommended to dock with the bow facing the pier. The best spot is the western pier (where the red light is located), with a depth of 3 meters. A mooring attendant is on duty, and the port provides good shelter from the bora wind, though not from southerly winds. The entrance is marked by a flashing red light (4 seconds). Approach with caution.

The port of Martinšćica is considered a suitable anchorage for small and medium-sized boats, and given the rather limited facilities, it is advisable to drop anchor in one of the numerous bays between Martinšćica and Valun, which have a depth of more than 6 meters; We are in the Gulf of Kvarner, so this option should not be considered during a bora, as gusts here can be very strong. If conditions force you to anchor during a bora, be careful when choosing a bay; those with vegetation, deep waters, and protection from winds coming from the north and northeast are preferable. Between Martinšćica and Valun, specifically in Zanja Bay, lies the Blue Grotto—one of the island’s most picturesque spots. It is a fissure in the rock several meters long and at least 15 meters high, where, thanks to a unique play of light, the waters take on enchanting hues.

If you’ve decided to go ashore in the area near Martinšćica, we recommend visiting the lake—a rarity on these islands—heading to the quaint village of Vidovici, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the gulf, and looking for a good seafood restaurant. Furthermore, the entire island is covered in lush vegetation that you won’t find as you travel further south into other parts of Croatia. In fact, the island was once a major producer of aromatic oils made from locally grown plants, primarily rosemary, bay leaves, and sage. There are numerous beaches that stand out from others in the area thanks to their white pebbles, which are immediately visible on the beach adjacent to the port. Near Martinsica, you may also want to visit the charming bay on the western side of the uninhabited island of Zeca, an anchorage with good seabed conditions and a depth of 5 meters.