Zadar: Sakarun, Cave, Blue Lagoon, Dragon Eye & Snorkel Tour

If you’re after a day packed with swimming, snorkeling, and jaw-dropping scenery around Croatia’s Zadar archipelago, this tour offers an exciting blend of natural beauty and adventure. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable skippers, you’ll hop aboard a speedboat to explore some of the most iconic spots Dugi Otok has to offer — from sunken ships to secret caves and pristine beaches.

What really draws us to this experience is its mix of active exploration and relaxing downtime. The stops at Blue Lagoon and Sakarun Beach promise picture-perfect turquoise waters, while the chance to snorkel around the wreck of St. Michele or peek into the Golubinka Cave adds a flavor of discovery. Plus, the inclusion of local food and stunning viewpoints makes it a well-rounded day trip.

A word of caution: the tour is heavily reliant on weather conditions, and in rough seas, the itinerary might shift. It’s also worth noting that it’s not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or non-swimmers — so be sure to review those criteria first. This trip is ideal for active travelers who love the water, appreciate scenic views, and are ready for a full day of exploring Croatia’s coastal treasures.

Key Points

• Excellent value at around $94, considering the variety of stops and included snorkeling gear.
• Stunning scenery with crystal-clear waters, caves, and beaches that you’ll want to photograph.
• Engaging guides like Dominik and Sabrina, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Multiple snorkel spots, including a sunken ship and Dragon’s Eye, perfect for underwater enthusiasts.
• A mix of active and relaxing moments, from cliff jumps to sunbathing under shade.
• Good logistical organization, with flexible planning depending on weather conditions.

An Honest Look at the Tour Experience

This full-day adventure begins in Zadar’s Jazine harbor, where you’ll meet your crew, including a seasoned skipper and guide—like Dominik, who reviewers highlight as caring and very experienced. The boat itself is comfortable, providing unlimited bottled water, onboard showers, and snorkeling equipment—plus, the chance to learn about Zadar’s famous Sea Organ as you depart.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: The Sunken Ship of St. Michele
In just 3-5 meters of water, this shipwreck hasn’t sunk into obscurity. It’s a favorite snorkeling spot for many, who appreciate exploring the rusted vessel and its surrounding marine life. As one reviewer put it, “the sunken ship was so cool—I’ve never seen anything like it.” The provided snorkeling equipment makes this accessible for beginners, although some may find the shallow depth perfect for kids or less confident swimmers.

Golubinka Cave & Cliff Jumping
Next, you’ll glide towards the stunning Golubinka cave, a natural miracle with its impressive stalactites and rock formations. Snorkeling inside provides that sense of being in a secret world. Nearby, adrenaline seekers can try cliff jumping—an exciting moment that’s well-loved, especially by those craving a little thrill.

Dragon’s Eye Hole
Close to the cave, the unique Dragon’s Eye (or ‘Oči Zmaja’) is a natural hole in the cliff face, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Reviewers mention this as a “natural miracle” and one of the highlights of the trip—definitely a must-see for nature lovers.

Veli Zal Blue Lagoon
One of the tour’s most praised stops, the Blue Lagoon is often described as “unreal” and “magical.” You can jump from the boat into the calm, crystal-clear water or simply relax on deck soaking up the sun with a drink. The shallow, turquoise waters are ideal for snorkeling or just floating around, and many guests appreciated the chance to enjoy this peaceful spot.

Sakarun Beach
Arguably Croatia’s most famous beach, Sakarun is renowned for its long stretch of soft white sand and clear, vibrant water. It’s a perfect place to unwind, swim, or grab some photos. Multiple reviews mention its natural beauty and the “incomparable” feeling of being in such a pristine location.

Veli Rat Lighthouse & Local Lunch
The tour then transports you to a small protected bay near the Veli Rat Lighthouse, a striking 42-meter-high tower offering panoramic views. Some guests take a short walk to the lighthouse, snapping selfies or landscape shots. You’ll also have time to enjoy local Croatian cuisine at a nearby restaurant—an affordable opportunity to sample regional flavors, although meals are at your own expense.

Yugoslav Underground Boat Shelter
The final stop takes you to a Cold War-era military site, providing a glimpse into Croatia’s more recent history. The military complex offers a different perspective and some excellent photo opportunities before heading back to Zadar.

What We Loved About This Tour

The guides truly seem to make the difference. Reviewers like Stefana mention that “Tony was super nice, helpful, and made the day enjoyable,” while others rave about Sabrina’s care and her “incredible” showing of the best spots. Their knowledge, friendly attitude, and ability to keep the group engaged turn a simple boat trip into a memorable experience.

The scenery itself is hard to beat. From the moment you peel away from the port, the views of Zadar’s coastline, the shimmering waters, and the rugged cliffs create a sense of adventure. The stops at caves, lagoons, and beaches are carefully chosen for their natural beauty, making every moment worth capturing.

Many guests appreciated the balance between active and relaxing moments. Cliff jumping and snorkeling offer adrenaline, while sunbathing at Sakarun or Veli Zal provides downtime to soak it all in. The snorkeling equipment is high-quality, and the underwater sights—like the sunken ship and Dragon’s Eye—are genuinely fascinating.

Practical Aspects and Value

While the price of $94 per person may seem modest for a full-day tour, it’s important to consider what’s included. The snorkeling gear, onboard water, and guided boat ride make for a good value, especially when you factor in the diversity of locations visited. The marine protected area and docking fees are extra—about 30 euros per adult—so budget accordingly.

The tour’s timing is flexible depending on weather conditions, which some guests say can influence how much time they get at each stop. Although the itinerary is quite packed, there’s enough free time at places like Sakarun and Veli Zal to relax, swim, and take photos without feeling rushed.

The group size appears manageable, and the boat’s comfort helps ensure a smooth ride. It’s suitable for those who are comfortable in the water and can handle a full day of activity, but it’s not recommended for children under 7, pregnant women, or non-swimmers.

What to Bring and Tips

• Sunscreen and sun protection are a must, as you’ll be exposed to the Croatian sun all day.
• Swimwear, towels, and a hat will keep you comfortable.
• Bringing some snacks and cash for meals or souvenirs is recommended.
• If you plan to snorkel extensively, consider bringing smaller masks or fins for kids, as some reviewers wish they had.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy water activities, scenic drives, and a mix of exploration and relaxation. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic natural spots—like caves and secluded beaches—and don’t mind a bit of physical activity like snorkeling or cliff jumping.

If you’re looking for a laid-back day with lots of swimming and stunning photo ops, this tour hits the mark. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less adventurous cruise or are traveling with non-swimmers or very young children, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This Dugi Otok speedboat tour from Zadar offers an excellent way to see Croatia’s coastal jewels in one action-packed day. The combination of snorkeling, scenic viewpoints, and beach stops delivers both adventure and relaxation, all guided by pros who genuinely care about your experience. The tour’s moderate price point makes it an accessible choice for most travelers, especially those eager to explore nature’s hidden corners.

The stops at sunk ships, caves, lagoons, and beaches create a diverse itinerary that keeps the day engaging from start to finish. With friendly guides, top-notch snorkeling gear, and well-chosen locations, this trip is a solid value and a memorable addition to any Croatia itinerary.

Perfect for active explorers, photography lovers, and anyone craving a taste of Croatia’s stunning coastline, this tour will leave you with plenty of stories and photos to cherish.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 7 years old. It involves active swimming and some cliff jumping, so it’s best for older kids comfortable in water.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, swimwear, towels, sun hat, sunglasses, cash for meals or souvenirs, and possibly small masks or snorkels if you prefer.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there is time to buy local food at the restaurant near Veli Rat.

Can I rent an underwater camera?
Yes, 4K underwater cameras are available for rent (around 30), but reservation is recommended.

How long is the boat ride?
The full-day tour typically lasts several hours, with multiple stops along the way.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the price.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary might be modified for safety, and tours can be postponed or refunded if weather conditions are extremely poor.

Is there free time at the beaches?
Yes, you’ll have time to relax, swim, or take photos at spots like Sakarun and Veli Zal.

Are alcohol drinks allowed during the tour?
Alcoholic drinks are not permitted until after lunch for safety reasons, given the boat movement and sun exposure.

How many people are typically on the tour?
Group sizes are manageable, generally small to medium, ensuring a personalized experience.

This comprehensive, honest look at the Zadar: Sakarun, Cave, Blue Lagoon, Dragon Eye & Snorkel Tour should help you decide whether it fits your travel style. With its combination of stunning scenery, friendly guides, and active adventures, it’s a fantastic way to experience the best of Croatia’s coast.