Private speedboat tour : Sakarun beach, Dugi otok, Golubinka Cave

Exploring Croatia’s Hidden Coastal Gems on a Private Speedboat Tour

If you’re considering a day on Croatia’s spectacular waters, a private speedboat tour from Zadar to Sakarun Beach, Dugi Otok, and Golubinka Cave offers a unique way to experience this stunning region. With the flexibility to customize your itinerary and enjoy the comfort of a private boat, this trip promises a blend of adventure, relaxation, and awe-inspiring scenery.

What we love most about this experience is the way it combines accessible, expert-guided navigation with the freedom to choose your favorite spots — all while avoiding the crowds that flock to more popular destinations. Plus, the included snorkeling gear makes it easy to explore beneath the surface.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is weather-dependent; if the skies turn uncooperative, your plans might shift or be canceled. Nevertheless, for those who crave a personalized, scenic day on the water, this tour suits families, small groups, or anyone eager to explore Croatia’s lesser-known coastal treasures up close.

Key Points

• Highly customizable: The private nature means you set the pace and destinations.
• Includes snorkeling gear: Perfect for exploring underwater sights, like sunken vessels.
• Stunning coastal scenery: Expect to see high cliffs, caves, and beaches accessible only by boat.
• Flexible itinerary: You choose where to anchor and swim, making each trip unique.
• Expert skipper: Guides like Marko are praised for their friendliness and flexibility.
• Good value: For about $360 per person, you gain a full day of personalized exploration.

Why Choose a Private Speedboat Tour in Zadar?

This tour offers a way to escape the typical tourist crowds and see Croatia’s coast at your own pace. Unlike group tours with rigid schedules, a private boat means you control the stops, swim spots, and sightseeing order. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want an intimate experience with tailored attention.

The journey begins with pickup from Uvala Draanica, making logistics straightforward. Once on board, the boat whisks you across the water, where you’re immersed in the beauty of the Dalmatian coastline. The captain acts as both driver and guide, sharing insights and accommodating your wishes.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The real highlight of this experience is the access it provides to coastal features that are only reachable by boat, such as the Golubinka Cave and Dragon Eye-shaped cave. Reviewer Ljuban_K shared how weather initially threatened the trip, but “our guide was so patient,” and ultimately, the trip unfolded beautifully.

The Golubinka Cave is especially captivating—a blue cave uniquely accessible by boat, giving you a chance to swim in its cool waters and marvel at its natural formations. Similarly, the Dragon Eye-shaped cave on Long Island has a distinct appearance, making it a favorite for photography and exploration.

The Itinerary in Detail

Dugi Otok – The Jewel of the Region

The tour kicks off with a glide across the water to the Long Island (Dugi Otok), often called a nautical paradise. Here, you’ll witness high cliffs and striking blue waters that set the tone for the day. The boat allows you to reach secluded spots unreachable by land, giving you the chance to indulge in swimming and snorkeling.

Cave Golubinka and the Dragon Eye Cave

Next, the boat takes you to Golubinka Cave, famed for its luminous blue waters and dramatic formations. Access is exclusively by boat, which makes this spot feel like a special find rather than a mass tourist stop. One reviewer, Michael_Y, mentioned how skipper Marko took them to “beautiful sites to swim that were private and off the beaten path.”

The Dragon Eye-shaped cave adds a whimsical touch to the trip. Its distinctive shape and clear waters make it a perfect photo op and a memorable part of the cruise.

Sakarun Beach and Veli Zal

The day includes free time at Sakarun Beach, renowned for its white sands and shallow, calm waters—ideal for families or anyone wanting a relaxing swim. Visitors often comment on the stunning views and the feeling of being in a private paradise, away from busy crowds.

Similarly, Veli Zal is another beautiful spot where you can anchor, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun. The flexibility of the tour means you can linger longer or move on, depending on your mood.

Snorkeling Near a Sunken Vessel

One of the tour’s more unique features is snorkeling near a sunken vessel—a fun, accessible way to explore marine life and underwater structures. The snorkeling equipment is included, making it easy for even beginners to participate. Reviewers like Juliette_D appreciated the opportunity to stop at several paradisiacal beaches and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The private boat itself is comfortable and designed for small groups, ensuring a personal experience. The captain, often praised for their friendly attitude and local knowledge, is key to making this trip special. Marko Skoljarev, the provider, is known for his patience and flexibility, tailoring the journey to your preferences.

The timing generally spans 7 to 8 hours, giving you ample opportunity to explore, swim, and relax. The tour starts with pickup before 8 am and runs until late afternoon, providing a full day of adventure.

You’ll enjoy fuel-inclusive pricing, so there are no surprises, and the boat’s speed allows you to cover more ground comfortably and efficiently. The group size is limited to 12 people, maintaining an intimate atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.

Authentic Feedback

Reviewers consistently mention the stunning views and the personalized service. Michael_V appreciated the fast boat and the fact that the guide was flexible enough to make last-minute adjustments, even if they missed some caves. Juliette_D highlighted the adorable and caring skipper, adding that the paradise beaches visited truly felt exclusive.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At approximately $360 per person, the tour offers significant value, especially considering the private nature, snorkeling gear, and the personalized itinerary. For a day of exploring Croatia’s coast away from crowds, it’s a worthwhile investment. Think of it as a bespoke day out on the water—less about ticking off a list and more about experiencing the coast on your terms.

What’s Not Included?

The main additional cost might be lunch, which isn’t included. You might find local restaurants or bring your own snacks, but the focus remains on the scenic, aquatic highlights.

Practical Details

• Meeting Point: Uvala Draanica, Zadar
• Availability: From July 2023 to September 2026
• Duration: 7 to 8 hours
• Booking: Recommended 31 days in advance
• Confirmation: Usually immediate, but may vary if booked last minute
• Cancellation: Free if canceled 24 hours before

The tour operates daily from 8 am to 6 pm, accommodating most schedules. Since service animals are allowed and public transportation is nearby, accessibility is straightforward for most travelers.

Final Thoughts

This private speedboat tour scores high for its customizability, stunning scenery, and small-group intimacy. It’s perfect for travelers who want a flexible, personalized day on the water—whether that’s swimming in pristine beaches, exploring secret caves, or just soaking up the sun with a cold drink in hand.

The guides, especially Marko, have a reputation for being welcoming, flexible, and knowledgeable, making the experience all the more enjoyable. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and the chance to visit off-the-beaten-path sites set this tour apart from more generic coastal excursions.

If you’re after a relaxed yet adventurous escape that offers authentic views and a touch of luxury, this tour hits many marks. It’s especially suitable for small groups or families eager for a private experience that balances exploration with comfort.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation on a speedboat, fuel, a skipper, and snorkeling equipment.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, as it’s a private tour, you can choose where to stop, anchor, and swim, making each trip unique.

What sites will I see?
Expect to visit Golubinka Cave, Dragon Eye-shaped Cave, Sakarun Beach, Veli Zal, and swim near a sunken vessel.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore underwater and see marine life.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts around 7 to 8 hours, giving plenty of time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and small groups mean family-friendly flexibility.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, and possibly snacks or lunch (not included).

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 31 days ahead is recommended to secure your preferred date.

Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is Uvala Draanica, Zadar.

To sum it up, this private speedboat tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and personalized service, all while showcasing Croatia’s incredible coastal scenery. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value flexibility and authentic experiences over crowded tourist spots. Whether you’re seeking stunning caves, tranquil beaches, or pristine snorkeling spots, this trip delivers on every front—and with a friendly, knowledgeable skipper guiding the way, it promises to be a memorable day on the Croatian waters.