54. Plivački maraton Preko–Zadar

The Glagolitic scribe Šimun Klimantović, who lived between 1460 and 1540, spent his days in the quiet village of Lukoran documenting the ancient liturgical traditions of his people. Today, swimmers retracing the routes across the Zadar Channel might find a similar stillness as they push off from the shores of Preko, following a path that has witnessed centuries of maritime movement. The 4600-meter crossing connects the island of Ugljan to the mainland, a passage that requires swimmers to navigate the open waters where the Adriatic currents shift with the tides.

Historical landmarks in the water

As you leave the harbor, the island of Ošljak emerges as a silent witness to your start. Once the private domain of the noble Calogera family, the island retains the traces of their summer residence and the 6th-century church of St. Mary. Moments later, the tiny island of Galovac appears just 75 meters from the Preko shore. Its Monastery of St. Paul the Hermit, founded in 1443 by a wealthy Zadar citizen, serves as a distinct navigational landmark for those setting their line toward the mainland. The route remains steeped in history, passing near the monastic ruins of Lukoran where tradition speaks of 14th-century Egyptian monks, while the silhouette of the St. Michael Fortress, originally a 6th-century Byzantine stronghold, looms over the heights behind you.

The rhythm of the Zadar Channel

Reaching the Zadar waterfront, the final kilometers are marked by the presence of the Sea Organ. This architectural marvel transforms the energy of the sea into sound, a constant reminder of the tidal cycles that dictate the flow of these waters. For those who enjoy testing their endurance in this region, the marathon is held in early August, serving as a distinct challenge compared to the shorter distances found in the ZOWL league, which continues just four days later. The race, organized by Plivački klub „Zadar“, relies on the support of escort vessels to ensure safety across the channel, managing the complexities of maritime traffic and the natural rhythm of the Adriatic, and stands as a primary fixture in the annual open water calendar.

Thirteen swimmers and a flotilla

Thirteen swimmers took the first start in 1973. The course has never changed its idea: from the waterfront of Preko on the island of Ugljan across the Zadar Channel to the Kolovare baths, with an escort flotilla of local boats invited to accompany the field. The youngest finisher ever was Dina Longin, who swam it in 1996 at six and a half; the fiftieth birthday edition in 2022 counted 238 starters.