Zadar: Sakarun Beach and Dugi Island Boat Tour with Lunch

If you’re after a day full of exploration, stunning scenery, and a good splash of adventure around Zadar, this boat tour to Dugi Island and Sakarun Beach offers an excellent way to experience Croatia’s coastal charm. Combining crystal-clear waters, fascinating sights, and a hearty local meal, this trip hits many high notes.

What makes this tour stand out is the mix of activities—snorkeling over a sunken ship, discovering military tunnels, and relaxing on one of the most beautiful beaches on the Adriatic. Plus, the guides seem to really know their stuff, making the trip both informative and fun.

One potential consideration is the pace—some reviews mention longer walks or rougher boat rides, so if you’re looking for a super relaxed, low-effort day, this might require some planning. But for those eager to see diverse sights and enjoy an active day on the water, it ticks many boxes.

This trip suits travelers who love nature, history, and water-based adventures, and who want a well-organized, memorable experience without the hassle of planning all the details themselves.

Key Points

• Stunning Beaches: Sakarun Beach is renowned for its white sand and turquoise waters.
• Historical Sights: Explore a sunken ship and military tunnels with insightful guides.
• Active & Relaxing: Snorkel, swim, and unwind at natural coves touched by pine trees.
• Enjoy Local Cuisine: A delicious included lunch at a family restaurant adds local flavor.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable skippers and guides make the experience engaging and safe.
• Good Value: For around $93, you’ll get multiple stops, lunch, snorkeling gear, and a full day of activities.

A Dive into the Experience

What to Expect from the Tour

This boat trip from Zadar is designed to give you a wide-ranging view of Dugi Island’s natural beauty and historical sites, all while enjoying the comfort and safety of a well-equipped speedboat. The experience kicks off at the designated meeting point, where you’ll meet your skipper and guide—typically a friendly, professional local who’s been leading these trips since 2015.

The journey begins with a cruise toward Dugi Island, where the first highlight is a visit to the famed Sakarun Beach. Known for its powdery white sand and shallow, calm waters, Sakarun is perfect for swimming and relaxing. You’ll have about two hours of free time here, which is enough to soak up the sun, paddle in the clear waters, or stroll along the shoreline. Reviewers often praise the beach’s beauty, with one describing it as even more stunning than photos suggest.

Snorkeling & Sunken Ship

Next up is snorkeling near a sunken ship, which is a real treat for underwater enthusiasts. The water here is praised for its clarity, allowing for easy viewing of marine life and shipwreck chambers. Several travelers mentioned how special it was to snorkel around the wreck—one reviewer fondly recalled seeing a dolphin family, including a baby, which was a magical moment. The snorkel masks are provided, making it easy for even beginners to enjoy this activity.

Visiting the Military Tunnel & Lighthouse

After snorkeling, you’ll head to the military tunnel—a relic from Dugi Island’s past that offers a glimpse into its strategic significance. The guide explains the history behind these tunnels, adding an extra layer of interest. The trip also includes a visit to the most beautiful lighthouse on the Adriatic, where panoramic views are a major highlight. You’ll want your camera ready to capture sweeping coastal vistas from this vantage point.

The Lunch Break

Following these explorations, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch in a family-run restaurant in the village of Bozava. Options include meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes, with reviews highlighting the tasty, hearty meals. One guest mentioned that the lunch was “excellent,” with some appreciating the chance to taste authentic Croatian cuisine in a relaxed setting. The meal is included in the ticket price, making this a good value, especially considering the quality and quantity of food.

Exploring Dugi Otok and Ugljan

Post-lunch, the tour continues to nearby Ugljan Island or the village of Muline, known for its ancient oil mill (over 2,000 years old). Visiting this historic site adds a cultural touch to the day. You’ll also get to swim in a natural cove shaded by pine trees, a hidden gem that many travelers found to be peaceful and beautiful.

The trip wraps up with a scenic cruise back to Zadar, arriving around 5:30 PM—roughly a full day of sightseeing, sunbathing, and water fun.

The Value of This Tour

At $93 per person, this experience offers a lot. You’re paying not just for the boat ride but for multiple stops, snorkeling equipment, a hearty local lunch, and expert guidance throughout. The reviews consistently point out the value, especially given the variety of activities packed into a single day.

The boat itself is described as large and well-equipped, with safety gear and enough space for groups that are typically small (7-8 people), which adds a sense of intimacy and comfort. The guides are praised for their knowledgeability and friendly attitude, making each stop informative and enjoyable.

While some reviews mention the boat ride to the first stop can be a bit rough—particularly if you’re sensitive to high speeds—most travelers find the trip comfortably paced, with plenty of time at each stop to explore or relax.

Practical Tips for Booking & Enjoyment

• Bring essentials: Hat, sunscreen, towel, camera, snacks, and water.
• Dress appropriately: Swimwear and comfortable walking shoes for exploring.
• Timing: Be prepared for an early start and a full, active day.
• Accessibility: Some reviewers noted that getting on and off the boat can be tricky for older travelers or those with injuries, so plan accordingly.
• Flexibility: The tour offers options to reserve and pay later, which is handy if your plans are still uncertain. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Experiences That Shine

The reviews reveal some standout moments: sighting dolphins, snorkeling near a sunken ship, and visiting historic sites like the oil mill and military tunnels. Guests frequently comment on the professional, friendly guides like Jure and Emilio, who go above and beyond to make the day memorable.

Several travelers mention the excellent lunch, appreciating it as more than just a meal but an authentic taste of local cuisine. The lush natural settings—pine trees touching the sea, secluded beaches—are consistently highlighted as some of the most beautiful parts of the trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for active travelers wanting a blend of history, nature, and water fun. It suits those who appreciate well-organized tours with knowledgeable guides and are comfortable with a boat ride that includes some high-speed sections. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families looking for a full day of sightseeing with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and explore.

It might be less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a very slow-paced, low-effort day. But for anyone keen to see both the natural and historic sides of Dugi Island, this trip offers excellent value and a genuine Croatian adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the designated meeting point at the big gate in Zadar.

What should I bring with me?
It’s best to bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Proper sun protection is important.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, there are vegetarian, fish, and meat options, and you can choose your preferred meal at the restaurant.

How long is the boat ride to the first stop?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but some reviews mention it can be a bit rough, especially at high speeds.

Can I snorkel at the sunken ship?
Absolutely. Snorkeling masks are provided, and this activity is highlighted as a favorite part of the tour.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind that some reviews mention access to the boat can be tricky for those with mobility issues. Kids generally enjoy the beaches and snorkeling.

What about the walk to the lighthouse?
The lighthouse offers panoramic photos and views, but some reviews note that walks can take longer than expected, so be prepared for some light hiking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

Final Thoughts

For travelers eager to combine beach lounging, underwater adventures, and historical exploration, this Zadar boat tour delivers a well-rounded experience. The scenery is breathtaking, the guides are knowledgeable, and the included lunch adds a genuine local touch.

While some may find the boat ride a little brisk at times or the walk to certain sites longer than expected, most guests feel the day offers excellent value for the chance to see Dugi Island’s best spots in one go.

This tour is best suited for those who are active, curious, and ready to make the most of a full day on the water and on land. If you want a snapshot of Croatia’s natural beauty, a peek into its history, and a chance to relax in paradise, this trip is worth considering.