Zadar: Sakarun – Dugi otok Luxury Speedboat Tour with Lunch

Discover the Dugi Otok Speedboat Tour with Lunch from Zadar

For those seeking a blend of stunning beaches, intriguing shipwrecks, and historical sites, the Sakarun – Dugi otok Luxury Speedboat Tour offers an 8.5-hour adventure starting at $118.69 per person. Departing from Uvala Draanica in Zadar, this guided trip combines luxury speedboat transport, snorkeling, and cultural stops, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out on the Croatian coast. With a maximum group size of 12, it maintains an intimate atmosphere, ensuring personalized attention.

Highlights include a visit to the world-famous Sakarun Beach, the wreck of the merchant ship Michelle, and the military tunnels, all complemented by a delicious Croatian lunch at a family restaurant. The tour is praised for its beautiful scenery and well-paced stops but does include a dock fee of 20 euros per person, which is not included in the ticket price.

Key Points

• 8.5-hour tour departing from Zadar at 9 a.m. with lunch included
• Visits to Sakarun Beach, shipwreck, military tunnels, and Muline Bay
• Use of snorkeling gear and fuel and parking fees covered
• Lunch options include meat, fish, or vegetarian menus
• Additional dock fee of 20 euros per person payable on-site
• Small group size ensures a personalized experience

Starting Point and Tour Duration in Zadar

The tour begins at Uvala Draanica, Obala kneza Trpimira 38 in Zadar at 9 a.m. The journey lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, with the return to the original meeting point around 5:30 p.m. This timing offers a full day of exploring, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photography, and relaxation along the Croatian coast.

Sakarun Beach: One of the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches

The first stop is Sakarun Beach, renowned for its white sand, crystal-clear shallow waters, and pine shade that offers welcome respite from the sun. The two-hour stay allows ample time to swim, relax, or take photos of the stunning coastline. According to reviews, the water’s beauty is undeniable, although some debris such as dead seaweed can sometimes be present, brought by strong winds. Nevertheless, the beach’s natural beauty and calm waters make it a highlight of the trip.

Exploring the Sunken Merchant Ship Michelle

Next, the tour takes you to Dugi Otok’s shipwreck of the merchant vessel Michelle, which lies just a 5-minute drive from Saharun Beach. The wreck, believed to be intentionally sunk in 1984, provides a fascinating snorkeling opportunity. The free admission makes this a popular stop for underwater photography and exploring marine life. The short 45-minute visit adds an adventurous touch to the day, with clear waters and an intriguing piece of maritime history.

Discovering Dugi Otok’s Military Tunnels

A 45-minute stop introduces visitors to Dugi Otok’s military tunnels, used historically as warship shelters. These tunnels offer a peek into the military history of the island, with free admission included. The walk-through tunnels provide a brief but insightful glimpse into the past, with the opportunity to appreciate the strategic importance of Dugi Otok during wartime. The site is easily accessible and adds a historical dimension to the day’s itinerary.

Authentic Croatian Lunch at a Family Restaurant in Bozava

At around 12:00 p.m., the tour pauses for a lunch break in Bozava. The included meal is a highlight, offering choices of meat, fish, or vegetarian menus at a local family-run restaurant. This one-hour stop emphasizes authentic Croatian cuisine, giving travelers a chance to sample regional flavors in a relaxed setting. The lunch is included in the ticket price and is generally well-received, with reviews praising the quality of the food.

Afternoon Swimming in Muline Bay

The last stop is Muline Bay, a natural sandy beach shaded by pine trees and offering both sunny and shaded areas. The one-hour swimming session here allows for unwinding amid scenic surroundings. The bay’s serene waters and peaceful setting make it an ideal spot to cap off the day, with good opportunities for a final swim or quiet contemplation before heading back to Zadar.

Practical Details: Snorkeling, Fees, and Group Size

The package includes snorkeling masks and equipment, making it easy to explore underwater life at each stop. The fuel surcharge, parking fees, and lunch are covered in the ticket price, but docking fees of 20 euros per person must be paid on-site. The small group size of up to 12 travelers ensures a more personalized experience, and the mobile ticket makes check-in straightforward.

The Experience: Pacing, Scenery, and Highlights

The tour balances longer travel periods with active stops for swimming and sightseeing. The speedboat ride is a key feature, offering a comfortable yet exhilarating way to explore Dugi Otok’s coast. Review comments note that the long drive can be tiring but are balanced by beautiful swimming stops and spectacular scenery. Travelers generally appreciate the well-organized stops and diverse activities packed into the day.

Pros and Cons of the Dugi Otok Speedboat Tour

Strengths include the beautiful beaches and historical sites, the delicious lunch, and the personalized group size. The snorkeling equipment and inclusive fees add convenience. On the downside, the long travel time may be tiring for some, and the dock fee adds extra cost not included in the initial price. The potential presence of seaweed debris at Sakarun Beach** might be a minor disappointment but doesn’t detract significantly from the overall experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less than 24 hours’ notice results in no refund, so planning ahead ensures peace of mind. The tour relies on good weather, and in case of poor conditions, an alternative date or full refund is offered. The minimum group size must be met for the tour to proceed.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who appreciate a mix of beach time, historical exploration, and authentic Croatian cuisine. The small-group format and luxury speedboat transport provide a comfortable yet lively experience. It suits those willing to spend a full day exploring while enjoying varied activities, but may be less ideal for travelers seeking a more relaxed or less mobile experience.

Summary of What Makes It Stand Out

The combination of Sakarun Beach’s natural beauty, the shipwreck snorkeling, and the military tunnels creates a well-rounded adventure. The lunch at a family-run restaurant adds a local touch, appreciated by many. The luxury speedboat ensures a comfortable ride, and the small group size fosters a more personal connection with the guides.

Final Words on the Dugi Otok Speedboat Tour with Lunch

This 8.5-hour guided trip offers a balanced mix of scenic spots, historical sites, and local cuisine. It provides value for the price, with all major activities and snorkeling gear included. The potential for seaweed debris at Sakarun is a minor point, but its stunning beaches and engaging stops make it a worthy choice for those exploring the Zadar region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, fuel surcharge, parking fees, and a Croatian lunch with your choice of meat, fish, or vegetarian options.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there is a docking fee of 20 euros per person payable on-site, which is not included in the ticket price.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, from 9 a.m. to approximately 5:30 p.m. including all stops and travel time.

What stops are featured on this tour?
Stops include Sakarun Beach, the shipwreck of Michelle, the military tunnels, a lunch in Bozava, and Muline Bay.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks and equipment are included in the package.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and possibly a waterproof camera to capture the scenery.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking and boat ride durations. The small group size helps ensure a comfortable experience for most.

How do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is Uvala Draanica in Zadar, at Obala kneza Trpimira 38. The tour departs promptly at 9 a.m..

What if the weather is poor?
If weather conditions are unfavorable, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with options for full refund or alternative dates.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, non-swimmers can enjoy viewing the scenery from the boat and relaxing on the beaches, though snorkeling requires some comfort in water.

This speedboat adventure from Zadar offers a well-rounded day exploring the beautiful Dugi Otok coast, making it a solid choice for those wanting a mix of nature, history, and Croatian culture.