Zadar: Kornati, Ship wreck Sakarun, Golubinka,speedboat tour

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast through a full-day speedboat adventure often promises memorable sights and unique experiences—and this tour from Zadar delivers just that. With highlights like snorkeling by a sunken ship, swimming at pristine beaches, and exploring dramatic caves, it’s an excursion designed for travelers who love a good mix of nature, adventure, and scenic cruising.

What really stands out is how well-organized the day feels, with a good balance of high-speed rides, quiet swim stops, and cultural touches like the Golubinka cave. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves quite a bit of movement, so it’s perfect for those who enjoy energetic days on the water. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced sightseeing trip, this might feel a little rushed. But if you’re eager to pack in as much as possible and love the thrill of a speedy boat ride, this tour is a fantastic choice suited for active travelers and nature lovers.

Key Points

• Stunning Marine Life and Snorkeling: Get up close with colorful fish, coral, and a sunken shipwreck, all in clear waters.
• Rapid but Comfortable Boat Ride: The speedboat adds excitement but is well-managed for safety and comfort.
• Diverse Stops: Beaches, caves, wrecks, and cliffs make for a varied, engaging day.
• Good Value for Money: All equipment, water, and guiding are included, with extra costs for park fees.
• Suitable for Active Travelers: The tour isn’t ideal for children under 10, non-swimmers, or those with mobility issues.
• Authentic Insights from Past Guests: Many reviewers mention friendly guides, memorable stops, and the fun of the fast boat.

An Authentic Look at the Tour Experience

This tour from Zadar is a comprehensive day out that covers some of the most captivating sights in the surrounding Kornati archipelago and Dugi Otok. We found that it’s best appreciated as a well-rounded adventure that combines marine exploration, scenic cruising, and beach relaxation, all wrapped in a 9-hour window.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Start your day at Arbiana Cruises, where the stand with the ‘Arbiana Cruises’ sign signals your departure. The meeting point is conveniently located in Zadar, and ample parking at Ravnice 2 makes it easy if you’re arriving by car. The check-in process is straightforward, and the staff is friendly and helpful, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

The Speedboat: Fast, Fun, and Efficient

The vessel is a RIB speedboat that’s both large and stable, accommodating the group comfortably. Past guests mention the boat as being “huge” and “filled with lots of pretty fish,” emphasizing the spaciousness and the lively environment. The skipper, often praised for friendliness and expertise—like Dino, who received special shoutouts—keeps the energy up and ensures safety at high speeds.

The ride itself is a highlight: expect a rush of wind, spray, and the thrill of covering long distances quickly. Many reviews highlight how much fun this part is, with some describing the experience as “flying” over the waves—or at least feeling like it.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Lagnii Cliffs near Veli Rat Lighthouse: The tour begins with a scenic cruise to the northern tip of Dugi Otok, giving you views of rugged cliffs and the famous Veli Rat lighthouse. Here, you can appreciate the natural beauty of the coastline and get your first glimpses of the archipelago’s raw landscape.

2. Snorkeling at the Shipwreck “Michelle”: This is a major highlight. The wreck, lying on the seabed, serves as a habitat for many fish and coral formations. Past guests describe snorkeling here as “uncovering the secrets of the shipwreck” and being able to spot colorful marine life. The clear waters make viewing easy, and the wreck’s presence adds an element of intrigue.

3. Sakarun Beach: After the wreck, the boat heads to Sakarun, renowned for its white sand and turquoise waters—a perfect spot for relaxing, swimming, or just soaking up the sun. With about 40 minutes allocated, this stop balances free time with the chance to refresh in one of Croatia’s iconic beaches.

4. Golubinka Cave: Next, the adventure takes you inside a natural cave with a small pebble beach. Past reviews note the stunning colors of the water and the chance to snorkel through the cave, revealing striking azure tones. Exploring the cave adds a touch of mystery and a cool contrast to the open sea.

5. Lojena Beach in Kornati National Park: The boat then navigates to the protected waters of Lojena Beach on Levrnaka Island. Guests love this spot for its pristine condition and the opportunity to snorkel amid abundant marine life, often describing it as “searching for fish” in crystal-clear waters.

6. Vrulje Bay for Lunch: A shaded, sheltered bay offers a break for lunch, which you can purchase ashore. Reviewers say the lunch options are “delicious” and that the bay is perfect for a quiet rest away from the boat. It’s an ideal spot to relax, refuel, and enjoy the serene environment.

7. Mana Island and Other Stops: The final scenic cruise takes you past Mana Island, famous for its dramatic cliffs and history as a filming location. Here, you can swim or just take in the views before heading back to Zadar.

What Travelers Love

From multiple reviews, the guides—like Dino and André—are praised for their friendliness, helpfulness, and knowledge. They often point out marine life, stop at the right spots, and share fun facts about the islands and caves.

The snorkeling equipment is included, making it easy to dive into the water at each stop. Past guests mention spotting fish such as ornate wrasses, striped red mullet, bluestriped lizardfish, and even dolphins during the cruise—truly the best chance for marine encounters in such a short trip.

The fast-paced boat ride is a hit among thrill-seekers, with many enjoying the sense of adventure without sacrificing comfort. The boat’s size and stability are appreciated; most feel safe and well-cared-for during the high-speed sections.

The Value and Cost

At $148 per person, the tour offers a full day of varied activities—snorkeling, beach time, cave exploration, and scenic cruising—all with included gear, water, and insurance. Additional fees for park entries (30 EUR cash) are reasonable considering the range of sights.

Reviewers agree that the value is excellent, especially since they get to visit several locations in one trip, saving the hassle and expense of organizing multiple smaller excursions.

Considerations and Tips

While this tour is fantastic for active travelers, it’s less suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues. Non-swimmers and those uncomfortable with high speeds may find the pace too intense. Be sure to bring sunscreen, swimwear, a hat, and cash for extras like lunch or park fees.

The tour involves quite a bit of movement, so packing light, comfortable clothes, and perhaps a dry bag for valuables is wise. The group size is generally moderate, ensuring a personalized experience but still lively enough for fun interactions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re craving an adventure-packed day that combines the thrill of a speedy boat ride with opportunities to explore diverse natural sights, this tour will suit you. It’s perfect for adventurers, marine life enthusiasts, and those who want to cover multiple highlights in one day.

Travelers seeking relaxation and cultural depth might find it too fast-paced or superficial, but if your holiday style is more active and spontaneous, this cruise offers great value and unforgettable moments.

FAQs

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
Yes, children under 10 years old are not suitable for this experience.

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

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 30 to 50 minutes, enough for swimming, exploring, or relaxing.

Are meals included?
No, but you can purchase a seaside lunch ashore in Vrulje Bay.

How much does the park fee cost?
The mandatory marine protected area fee is 30 EUR per person, paid in cash.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for extras.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, the tour includes a live guide who provides commentary in English and Croatian.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can book up to 24 hours in advance with free cancellation.

Is the boat safe and comfortable?
Past reviews confirm that the boat is spacious, stable, and well-maintained, with safety at the forefront.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour from Zadar offers a lively, engaging way to see some of Croatia’s most photogenic islands and underwater wonders. With a well-balanced itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and a good mix of adventure and relaxation, it represents excellent value for those who love being on the water and exploring nature’s best.

It’s especially suited for travelers who crave fast-paced, memorable experiences and don’t mind a busy schedule. If you want a day filled with snorkeling, beaches, caves, and scenic cruising, this trip ticks all the boxes—and leaves you with stories to tell long after you’ve returned home.

For anyone looking to maximize their time around Zadar and experience the natural beauty of Croatia’s Kornati and Dugi Otok, this tour is a highly recommended choice.