Zadar: Sakarun Bay, Golubinka Cave & Veli al Speedboat Tour

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast can feel overwhelming, with so many islands and hidden spots vying for attention. This speedboat tour from Zadar offers a streamlined way to hit the highlights of Dugi Otok in just one day. With private boat access, you’ll visit Sakarun Bay, Golubinka Cave, and Veli al Beach—some of the archipelago’s most talked-about locations.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the flexibility and exclusive feel that a private boat provides. Unlike crowded group tours, you’re free to enjoy the scenery at your own pace, snorkel when you want, and relax without the noise of strangers. One thing to consider is that the Golubinka Cave visit is weather-dependent—if the conditions aren’t right, the cave might be skipped, and part of your fee refunded.

This tour is perfect for those craving an authentic, scenic day on the water—especially couples or small groups who want a personalized adventure. If you’re after a mix of beach lounging, snorkeling, and discovering lesser-known spots, this experience hits the mark. However, if you’re looking for more extensive beach hopping or guaranteed cave exploration, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Private speedboat experience ensures personalized service and flexibility.
• Highlights include Sakarun Bay, Veli al Beach, and Golubinka Cave, each offering unique scenery.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, so you can explore underwater wonders.
• Weather conditions can influence cave visits, with refunds available if the cave isn’t accessible.
• Tour includes a professional skipper, bottled water, life-jackets, and snorkeling equipment.
• Fuel costs are extra and payable in cash, so budget accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins at Marina Tankerkomerc in Zadar, a familiar spot for boat excursions. Your skipper, whose professionalism is frequently praised, will meet you at the café in front of the reception building, ready to set sail. The convenience of a central meeting point means you avoid long transfers, and parking is available nearby for a fee—12 kuna per hour or up to 90 kuna daily.

The boat itself is a private vessel, likely accommodating up to two guests for the listed price of $506 per group. This setup creates a cozy, intimate environment, ideal for couples or small groups wanting a more exclusive experience.

The Scenic Cruise: Passing Islands and Sunken Ship

Once underway, you’ll cruise past the neighboring islands of Sestrunj, Rava, Zverinac, and Molat—each with its own character and charm. The highlight for some is the stop near a sunken ship near Lagnii Islands—a fascinating wreck from the 80s perfect for snorkeling and exploration.

This part of the journey offers a great chance to enjoy breathtaking views of the Dalmatian coastline, with clear blue waters and rugged cliffs framing your day at sea. The boat’s speed and navigation capacity mean you can cover significant distance comfortably while taking in the scenery.

Snorkeling at the Sunken Ship

Many reviews mention the snorkeling stop near the sunken ship as a favorite moment. Snorkel gear is included, and the wreck is close enough to explore without needing additional equipment like a canoe. This spot is perfect if you’re interested in underwater sights, and the shallow waters around the wreck are generally safe for swimmers.

Veli al Beach: A Hidden Gem

Next, your boat will head toward Veli al Beach, situated on Dugi Otok’s uninhabited side. This stretch of turquoise waters and pristine shoreline is a secret for many visitors but a well-kept treasure among locals. The Big Beach is renowned for its soft sand and crystal-clear water, making it an ideal spot for lounging, swimming, or just soaking up the sun.

From reviews, we learn that many guests loved the spectacular color of the water—“Veli al Beach has the most turquoise waters of the Adriatic,” one traveler noted. The beach’s remote location means you’ll have plenty of space to yourselves and a peaceful environment away from busy crowded spots.

Golubinka Cave: Nature’s Light Show

The highlight for many thrill-seekers is a visit to Golubinka Cave. The cave’s natural light effects create a surreal, almost magical scene—light filtering through openings creates a kaleidoscope of colors on the water’s surface. Snorkeling inside the cave reveals vibrant underwater life, with many describing the experience as “magical” or “breathtaking.”

However, some reviews mention that visiting the cave depends heavily on weather conditions—if the seas are rough, the trip might be canceled or cut short, resulting in a partial refund of the fuel surcharge. Also, it’s worth noting that visitors without a canoe or kayak might find it challenging to explore the cave’s interior fully, as the cliffs can be sharp, and access is limited.

Return to Sakarun Bay

After exploring the cave, the boat travels back toward Sakarun Bay, often considered the tour’s pièce de résistance. Its white sandy beach and calm, turquoise waters make for a perfect place to relax after a busy morning of sightseeing. The bay has a beach bar and restaurant, offering drinks and snacks, or you can simply lay on the sand and listen to the waves.

Guests frequently rave about Sakarun’s beauty, with one reviewer describing it as “a slice of paradise,” ideal for lounging, swimming, or enjoying a cold drink in the shade of pine trees.

Practical Tips and Considerations

The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The group size is small, and the tour provides snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and life-jackets, making it easy to focus on having fun.

The cost of fuel (~240 kuna) is payable in cash at the end of the trip, so be prepared for this additional expense. Also, bring swimwear and a towel—the water inside the cave and around the beaches is refreshingly cold but perfect for cooling off.

Authentic Perspectives from Past Travelers

One reviewer expressed disappointment, mentioning that “the Golubinka Cave cannot even be visited without a canoe,” and that sharp cliffs made swimming or exploring difficult. They felt the day was “driven around the whole day on the sea without having seen much of anything,” and found the lunchtime at the island overpriced.

Conversely, many guests highlight knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery as the tour’s strengths. One traveler praised the skipper, Toni, for his professionalism and friendliness, stating, “Warm regards to Toni who did a good job!” Others appreciated the excellent snorkeling and the fact that the tour was “suitable for children from 5 years of age,” indicating a family-friendly vibe.

Several reviews also mention the value for money, especially considering the private boat experience and inclusion of snorkeling gear and drinks. The flexibility to reschedule or cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind for travelers unsure of their plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for couples or small groups seeking a personalized and scenic day on the water. If you appreciate beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and discovering hidden corners of Dugi Otok, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.

However, travelers who are keen on visiting the Golubinka Cave should be aware of its dependency on weather conditions and possibly limited access. Those expecting a full day of beach hopping might find the itinerary somewhat curated, but for a relaxed, scenic adventure that combines nature, culture, and a bit of snorkeling, it’s hard to beat.

Final Thoughts

This private speedboat tour offers a combination of relaxation, adventure, and discovery that is hard to match in a typical day trip. The chance to visit Sakarun Bay’s stunning sands, Veli al Beach’s turquoise waters, and the mysterious Golubinka Cave makes it a memorable way to see Dugi Otok from the water.

The experience shines when the weather is good, and the guides’ local knowledge adds a layer of authenticity and safety. While the price reflects the exclusivity and private access, many find it well worth the splurge—especially if you’re after a day of scenic beauty and underwater exploration.

For those craving a more personalized, scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities to relax and snorkel, this tour delivers. Just keep in mind the weather caveats and fuel surcharge, and you’ll be set for a rewarding day at sea.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is described as suitable for children from 5 years of age, making it a family-friendly option.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Marina Tankerkomerc in Zadar, and the activity concludes back at the same meeting point.

What should I bring on the tour?
You should bring swimwear and a towel for swimming and snorkeling.

Are snorkeling masks and equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included in the tour.

Is there an additional cost?
Yes, fuel expenses (around 240 kuna) are payable in cash at the end of the trip.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The visit to Golubinka Cave is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the cave visit may be canceled, and a partial refund for the fuel surcharge will be provided.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, providing ample time to enjoy each stop.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.

Is the experience private?
Yes, the boat is private for up to two guests, making it intimate and personalized.

This speedboat tour from Zadar offers a well-balanced mix of scenic cruising, active snorkeling, and relaxing beach time. For travelers seeking a memorable day on the water with an authentic Croatian flavor, it’s a choice worth considering.