Zadar: The Best Spots of Dugi Otok Island Boat Tour – 9,5 hr

The Zadar: The Best Spots of Dugi Otok Island Boat Tour offers a full-day journey through some of Croatia’s most striking coastal attractions, all within a small-group setting of up to 12 travelers. For $117.50 per person, the tour departs from Obala kneza Trpimira 2 in Zadar at 9:00 am and lasts approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes. It is designed for those who enjoy adventure, exploration, and scenic beauty, especially since it avoids the crowded tourist spots by focusing on hidden bays, local villages, and unique landmarks.

While the tour provides all necessary equipment, bottled water, and guided support, it does require a current ID or passport and involves speedboat riding, which may not suit the very young or those with mobility concerns. Still, it stands out for its dynamic itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and the variety of stops that include snorkeling, beaches, and a lighthouse, making it ideal for active travelers seeking an authentic Croatian coastal experience.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 12 travelers ensures personalized attention.
• The tour covers 7 distinct stops, including hidden caves, beaches, and cultural landmarks.
• Snorkeling gear, bottled water, and safety equipment are all included, making the day hassle-free.
• The speedboat rides add excitement but may be uncomfortable for some due to seating and high speed.
• Stops at Veli Rat Lighthouse, Sakarun Beach, and Bozava showcase some of Croatia’s most beautiful landscapes and local culture.
• The tour is weather-dependent; cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, with full refunds or alternative dates offered.

Exploring the Dugi Otok Highlights on a Speedboat

The full-day itinerary takes you from Zadar on a fast-paced adventure designed for those who love swimming, snorkeling, and exploring. Starting at Obala kneza Trpimira 2, the journey kicks off with a visit to 7 stops that showcase both natural beauty and local charm.

The first stop offers excursions into hidden caves and relaxation on two stunning beaches. The second involves an exciting snorkeling session around a sunken ship, where marine life thrives in the clear waters. The tour then continues to Dugi Island, where untouched nature and crystal-clear sea provide perfect spots for swimming and exploring bays that are often overlooked by larger tours.

Snorkeling Around a Sunken Ship and Exploring Golubinka Sea Cave

One of the most praised features of this tour is the snorkeling adventure around a sunken ship at the second stop. This spot allows for a close-up view of marine life and underwater landscapes that are a highlight for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Alongside this, travelers visit the Golubinka Sea Cave, a majestic natural formation that promises stunning views beneath the surface.

The marine environment here is vivid and lively, making it an ideal experience for those eager to see the underwater world of the Adriatic. The snorkeling gear provided makes this activity accessible, and the small group size ensures plenty of time for enjoying these underwater spots without feeling rushed.

Iconic Landmarks: Veli Rat Lighthouse and Sakarun Beach

A visit to the Veli Rat Lighthouse takes you to the highest lighthouse in the Adriatic. Here, gorgeous vistas open up over the sea, and the unspoiled nature around the lighthouse provides a peaceful break from the speedboat rides. Although admission to the lighthouse is not included, the scenic views alone make this a worthwhile stop.

The trip also features Sakarun Beach, often described as Croatia’s most praised beach. With its 800-meter stretch of white sand and shallow turquoise waters, Sakarun offers a perfect place to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax amidst stunning scenery. The shallow waters are ideal for families or less experienced swimmers, although the tour’s overall pace is quite energetic.

Visiting the Village of Bozava and Cultural Touches

The Charming village of Bozava is included in the itinerary for a 45-minute visit, providing a glimpse into the local island lifestyle. Visitors can grab a gelato or coffee at village bars, enjoy crystal-clear bays, and take a leisurely walk around this picturesque settlement. It’s a peaceful contrast to the high-speed boat sections and allows for relaxing exploration.

The Veli Rat Lighthouse and Its Scenic Views

While the Veli Rat Lighthouse stop lasts only 15 minutes and admission is not included, the panoramic vistas from this point are notable. It is the tallest lighthouse in the Adriatic, offering sweeping views of the surrounding unspoiled coastline. Travelers often find this a peaceful moment to appreciate the natural beauty and take photos of the landscape.

The Thrill of Speedboat Rides and Seaside Relaxation

The core of the tour is the speedboat rides between stops, which many reviews praise for their excitement and scenery. The fast travel allows visitors to cover multiple locations in a single day, although it may result in bumpy rides that some find uncomfortable, especially since the seating is jockey-style and there is no shade on the boat.

Travelers should prepare for bright sun exposure and consider bringing sunscreen and hats. The breezes during the rides are refreshing, but the seating arrangement can be a drawback for those seeking more comfort.

The Charm of Bozava Village and the Sea Organ

The small stop at Bozava offers a chance to experience local island life, enjoy the calm bays, and taste local treats. Plus, the tour provides a speedboat ride along Zadar’s coast with a backdrop of the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun, two of Zadar’s most famous landmarks, where visitors can listen to the music of the waves and enjoy scenic views.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Group Size, and What’s Included

The meeting point for the tour is at Obala kneza Trpimira 2, with the tour starting promptly at 9:00 am. The group size is capped at 14 people, ensuring a personalized experience with the experienced, English-speaking crew. The tour includes snorkeling gear, bottled water, and safety equipment, but docking fees of 30 euros per person are payable in cash at check-in.

The casual dress code suggests wearing swimming suits, light summer clothes, walking shoes, and bringing a towel. Travelers are advised to bring cash for personal expenses, snacks, or souvenirs. The tour is weather-dependent, with cancellations possible for poor conditions, and full refunds or alternative dates are offered if that occurs.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This trip is best suited for active travelers who enjoy speedboat rides, snorkeling, and exploring multiple locations in one day. It appeals to those who appreciate natural beauty, scenic views, and small-group intimacy. The adventure and pace may be less suitable for small children, disabled individuals, or anyone seeking a leisurely, relaxed boat ride.

The knowledgeable guides and well-organized stops ensure a memorable experience for those interested in diverse scenery, underwater life, and local culture.

The Experience Feedback: Strengths and Considerations

The major strength of this tour lies in the variety of stops and activities, including snorkeling, beach lounging, and lighthouse viewing, all led by friendly, well-informed guides. Many reviews highlight the expertise and warmth of the crew, particularly Eva, Mauro, Dora, and Christina, who make the experience enjoyable.

However, the speedboat’s small size and seating style can cause discomfort for some, especially during longer rides. The lack of shade on the boat and the high speed might be a concern for travelers sensitive to sun exposure or motion sickness. The docking fee of 30 euros per person is an additional expense not included in the ticket price.

Final Advice for Future Participants

Travelers who enjoy adventurous days with multiple stops, snorkeling, and scenic rides will find this tour highly rewarding. Prepare for a fast-paced, energetic day and bring sunscreen, cash for extras, and a sense of curiosity. The small-group size guarantees a more personalized experience, which many reviews praise.

Those looking for a leisurely or more comfortable boat tour may want to consider other options, but this trip undeniably offers a rich taste of Dugi Otok and the Croatian coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. The tour mentions a recommended restaurant if you wish to dine, but meals are at your own expense.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring cash, sunscreen, swimming suits, light summer clothes, a towel, and personal items for comfort and convenience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children up to age 8 are strongly advised to share a seat with a parent or guardian. The tour is not recommended for small children without parental guidance due to the boat’s speed and seating style.

Are the snorkeling gear and safety equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment and safety gear are all included, making activities straightforward and safe.

How does weather affect the tour?
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, full refunds or alternative dates are available.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its small-group size, focus on hidden spots and local culture, and the variety of stops including snorkeling, beaches, and a lighthouse set it apart. Many reviews emphasize the expertise of the guides and the dynamic pace.

This Dugi Otok boat tour provides a compact, activity-rich day exploring the Croatian coast, perfectly suited for adventurous travelers eager to see less crowded, scenic spots in comfort.