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

Exploring Croatia’s Hidden Gems by Boat: A Deep Dive into the Dugi Otok Island Tour

If you’re looking for a way to escape the crowds and see the lesser-known sides of Croatia’s stunning coast, this 9.5-hour small-group boat tour from Zadar might just be your perfect choice. With a maximum of 12 travelers, it promises an intimate experience filled with snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing across Dugi Otok’s most captivating spots. From sunken shipwrecks to lighthouse vistas and secret caves, this trip is designed for those eager to explore away from the tourist-heavy paths.

What we really like about this tour? The personalized touch that small groups offer, along with the diversity of stops that combine adventure with relaxation. Plus, the fact that everything you need—snorkeling gear, bottled water, safety equipment—is included means fewer worries and more fun. On the flip side, it’s worth considering the fast-paced nature of the rides, which might be a bit uncomfortable for some, especially under the hot Croatian sun.

This trip is best suited for active travelers or families who love a mix of swimming, exploring, and scenic rides. If you’re after a laid-back, slow-paced cruise, this might not be your ideal fit. But if you’re ready for an adventure on the water, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, photo stops, and discovering local secrets, this tour offers a compelling package.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Max 12 people ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Inclusive Equipment: Snorkeling gear, bottled water, and safety equipment are provided, making it hassle-free.
• Variety of Stops: From sunken shipwrecks and caves to beaches and lighthouses, each stop offers something unique.
• High-Speed Rides: The tour includes thrilling speedboat rides that are exciting but might be uncomfortable for some.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable crew, often praised for their friendliness and informative commentary.
• Flexible and Convenient: Full-day experience with multiple scenic and activity-rich stops, perfect for travelers wanting a rundown of Dugi Otok.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Start Point and Early Morning
The tour kicks off bright and early at Obala kneza Trpimira 2 in Zadar at 9:00 am. Expect a lively start, as the crew prepares the boat and gets everyone settled. The small boat’s size—cited as cozy or slightly cramped by some travelers—means you’ll get to know your companions quickly, which adds to the fun. The crew is said to be friendly and supportive, with guides like Eva and Mauro receiving kudos for their warmth and knowledge.

Stop 1: Exploring Hidden Caves and Beaches
The first leg takes you around Long Island, where you’ll admire stunning scenery and have plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel. The highlight for many is exploring the sunken shipwreck, which offers a fascinating glimpse into marine life and history. One reviewer mentioned this as a major draw, describing the experience as both exciting and memorable.

Stop 2: Veli Rat and Golubinka Sea Cave
Next up, you’ll visit Veli Rat, home to Croatia’s highest lighthouse, which offers sweeping views of the coastline. But the real joy here is the snorkeling around a sunken ship, where you get to meet the vibrant marine environment up close. The Golubinka Cave adds an element of mystery and adventure, as visitors can explore its natural formations. Reviewers have noted that the marine life here is vivid and engaging, making it a top snorkeling spot.

Stop 3: Dugi Otok’s Natural Beauty
A highlight for many is the exploration of unspoiled nature and hidden bays on Dugi Otok itself. The tour includes thrilling speedboat rides along the coast, showcasing the island’s rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and secret coves. The diversity of scenery keeps the trip lively and engaging. One guest remarked that the stops offer ample time to swim or relax, which is ideal for those wanting more than just a quick visit.

Stop 4: Veli Rat Lighthouse
A quick visit to the Veli Rat Lighthouse lets you take in the gorgeous vistas. While the lighthouse itself isn’t part of the ticket price, reviewers note that the views and the untouched natural surroundings make this a worthwhile stop. It’s perfect for a photo op or a moment of quiet reflection.

Stop 5: Sakarun Beach
No trip to Dugi Otok is complete without a visit to Sakarun Beach, often called Croatia’s most praised beach. Its long white sandy coastline and shallow, crystal-clear waters are a treat for swimmers and sunbathers alike. Reviewers have raved about the beauty of this spot, with one describing it as a “paradise” for beach lovers. Depending on timing, you’ll have around two hours here to soak up the sun, swim, or grab a refreshment.

Stop 6: Bozava Village
The tour then takes you to the charming village of Bozava, where you can explore the Mediterranean charm, enjoy a gelato or coffee, and appreciate the peaceful island lifestyle. Many reviews mention how this stop offers a more authentic experience, away from busy tourist centers, with some calling it a “hidden gem.”

Final Stop: The Sea Organ & Greeting to the Sun in Zadar
Back in Zadar, the tour wraps up with a scenic speedboat ride along the coast, stopping at the Sea Organ—a famous Zadar landmark where music is made by the waves—and the Greeting to the Sun installation. These iconic sights are often described as surreal, with the sound of the sea blending with the city’s unique art. Visitors appreciate the brief but memorable finale to their day.

What’s Included and What’s Extra?

The tour’s inclusions make it a hassle-free day out:
– Use of snorkeling equipment, which ensures you can explore marine life without extra cost
– Bottled water to stay hydrated during the day
– Fuel and navigation costs, so you don’t have to worry about hidden charges
– An experienced, English-speaking crew who act as guides and support throughout

Extras that travelers should be aware of include:
– Docking and anchoring fees (€30 per person), payable in cash at check-in
– Lunch, which is not included—though the crew can recommend nearby restaurants, and travelers can opt for their own meals
– Personal expenses like souvenirs or additional drinks

Note: The tour operates in favorable weather conditions, and if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides—with specific praise for Eva and Mauro, who are said to be friendly, informative, and capable of giving travelers enough space to enjoy each stop. One guest called the guides “cool guys” who made the day fun, while others appreciated the reassurance of safety during high-speed rides and snorkeling.

The speedboat rides are an integral part of the adventure. Multiple reviewers mentioned how thrilling they are—some even called the boat “small” but manageable, emphasizing the quick transition between sites. A few noted that the seats might be a bit cramped or that sitting “like on a horse” could be uncomfortable for some, especially under the blazing sun. Yet, most agreed that the fun and scenery more than compensated.

Snorkeling around the sunken ship and exploring the sea caves consistently receive praise. Reviewers loved the chance to meet marine life up close and said the waters are pristine enough to make it worthwhile. The beaches like Sakarun stand out as a highlight, with the white sands and shallow waters drawing many to spend hours soaking up the sun.

Food and drinks, while not included in the package, are easily accessible around the stops. Several travelers enjoyed local restaurants or casual snacks, often mentioning that the refreshing fruit salads and gelato provided on the boat were much appreciated after swimming.

The Practical Side: Logistics & Value

At $117.50 per person, this tour offers quite good value considering the extensive itinerary, inclusion of snorkeling gear, bottled water, and the small-group setting. The full-day nature means you’re getting a comprehensive experience with plenty of variety—something that sets it apart from half-day or more generic boat trips.

The group size—capped at 12—creates a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere, which makes asking questions and getting personalized recommendations easy. The timing is well-structured, with stops scheduled to maximize your time in each location, avoiding overly rushed visits.

For families, the tour is suitable but note that children up to 8 should share seats, and it’s not recommended for those with limited mobility or certain health issues due to the boat’s speed and seating arrangement.

This tour balances excitement, scenic beauty, and a touch of authentic local flavor. It’s perfect for travelers who want an active, adventure-filled day that goes beyond the usual sightseeing, with knowledgeable guides to enhance the journey.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to spend a full day exploring Croatia’s coastline and islands. If you enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and high-speed boat rides, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also perfect if you value a smaller, more personal group, and want to see hidden beaches, caves, and local villages without the crowds.

Families with active children will enjoy the variety of stops, but be prepared for a somewhat bumpy ride and no shade on the boat. Those looking for a relaxed, slow-paced cruise might prefer a different experience.

Overall, it’s a well-rounded, value-for-money adventure packed with photo-worthy scenery and genuine local charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Zadar.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling gear, bottled water, fuel, navigation costs, and an English-speaking crew are included, ensuring a smooth day with no hidden surprises.

Are meals provided?
No, lunch is not included, but the crew can recommend local restaurants, and you’re free to bring your own snacks or buy on-site.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 12 travelers ensures a small, personalized experience, allowing plenty of space and interaction with guides.

Is this suitable for children?
Children up to 8 are advised to share seats, and the tour may not be suitable for very small children or those with mobility issues due to the boat’s design and high-speed rides.

Are the stops time-limited?
Yes, the stops are scheduled to give you enough time to swim, snorkel, and explore, with options to relax or take photos.

What about safety?
Safety equipment is provided on board, and guides are experienced. However, the boat’s size and speed mean it’s most suitable for active, confident swimmers.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled, ensuring peace of mind.

To sum it up, this boat tour offers a fantastic mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic Croatian charm. With knowledgeable guides, excellent stops, and inclusive equipment, it’s a solid choice for travelers craving a full-day exploration of Dugi Otok’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re snorkeling over a sunken ship, relaxing on Sakarun Beach, or taking in panoramic lighthouse views, this experience delivers more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a memorable journey across Croatia’s spectacular coast.