Zadar: Boat Tour with Unlimited Wine & 3 Stops

Zadar: Boat Tour with Unlimited Wine & 3 Stops — An Honest Look

If you’re considering taking a boat trip around Zadar’s coastline, this tour offers a classic, laid-back way to see some beautiful spots while enjoying plenty of Croatian wine. We’ve looked into what makes this experience stand out, along with a few things to keep in mind before booking. Whether you’re after scenic views, a relaxed atmosphere, or a taste of local vibe, this trip has quite a bit to offer.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the historical charm of the 120-year-old wooden boat and the generous unlimited wine—it’s not just a trick to get you tipsy but a genuine part of the experience. The stops at Kukljica, Hidden Bay, and Kali are all picture-perfect and give you a nice balance of swimming, exploring small villages, and soaking in the scenery.

However, one thing to consider is that this tour is weather-dependent, especially the Hidden Bay stop. If the weather’s uncooperative, the captain might skip that part, meaning you’ll spend more time at the other stops but miss out on that particular hidden gem. Also, keep in mind that the total price includes a dock fee of €10 per adult and €5 per child, which is paid in cash and can add up, especially if you’re traveling with a group.

This trip feels best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, social day on the water—perfect for couples, friends, or even small families. If you’re after a quick, scenic escape with good drinks and lovely views, this might be just what you need.

Key Points

• Historic Charm: The boat is over 120 years old, which adds a sense of tradition and character.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Unlimited white wine, still water, and juices keep everyone refreshed.
• Gorgeous Stops: The three locations—Kukljica, Hidden Bay, and Kali—offer swimming, sightseeing, and delicious snacks.
• Relaxed Pace: The itinerary is designed for enjoyment rather than rushing around, with plenty of time to explore.
• Weather Flexibility: The Hidden Bay stop may be replaced or skipped if weather conditions aren’t suitable.
• Good Value: Around $41 per person, including snorkeling gear and a tour guide, offers a fair balance between cost and experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect

When you first step onto the 120-year-old wooden boat, the vibe is both charming and nostalgic. The boat’s age gives it a unique character, and you’ll likely find it well-maintained, in good condition despite its age. As the captain sets sail along Zadar’s coast, you’re immediately treated to wonderful panoramic views of rocky hills, turquoise waters, and charming coastline.

The journey begins with a warm Croatian welcome, and as you settle in with your drink, you’ll notice the relaxed and friendly atmosphere onboard. We loved how the crew went out of their way to make everyone feel comfortable, with many reviews highlighting their helpfulness and friendliness.

The Three Stops

Kukljica is the first stop, about 45 minutes long. It’s a small village with a lovely beach, perfect for a quick dip or just relaxing in the sun. Several reviews mention how invigorating the swim in the crystal-clear waters is, especially after a short boat ride. Nina, in her review, noted, “There were snacks and drinks, also wine, but in my opinion you won’t have time to drink it because you’ll enjoy views, snorkeling and trip itself.” This highlights that the stops are more about the experience than just drinking.

Next, the boat anchors in Hidden Bay, another 45-minute stop. This spot is notably weather-dependent—if the captain decides the conditions aren’t safe, they might skip the stop altogether. When it’s included, this is the highlight for many: a perfect setting for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the boat. Emma mentions, “The boat tour was a great way to see the coastline and visit the islands—lots of fun, very relaxing,” emphasizing the leisurely pace and the beauty of this particular stop.

Finally, the cruise takes you to Kali, a small fishing village with a charming beach. Here, you can explore or visit the popular “Srdela Snack” bar, which many reviews recommend for Croatian seafood and fast food. Teresa found it to be a worthwhile culinary stop, and the reviews repeatedly mention sampling local grilled seafood as a highlight.

The Return & Final Moments

After Kali, the boat heads back to Zadar, with everyone soaking in the last moments of sunshine. The unlimited wine continues to flow, and the relaxed atmosphere persists. As you approach the pier, there’s a genuine feeling of having experienced a special slice of Croatian coastal life. Many reviews, like Charlotte’s, emphasize how gorgeous the stops were, and how the water was “perfect emerald green.”

Practical Details & Tips

This experience is quite straightforward but worth keeping in mind:

• Duration: The trip lasts about 4 hours, including stops, which is a good length for a relaxing day without feeling rushed.
• Cost: At around $41 plus the €10 per adult docking fee (paid in cash), it’s a decent deal considering what’s included—snorkeling gear, guide, and unlimited drinks.
• Transport & Meeting Point: You meet at the pier off Obala kralja Petra Kreimira IV street, near the white lighthouse. No hotel pickup, so plan accordingly.
• What to Bring: Sun hat, swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash are essential. The stops involve walking to pebbly beaches, so water shoes might come in handy.
• Weather & Rescheduling: The tour can be rescheduled if weather turns bad. Keep your plans flexible in case of a weather-related change.
• Group Size: Not explicitly stated, but reviews mention a friendly atmosphere with a manageable group size.

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The Vibe & Who Should Consider This

This trip is all about relaxation and socializing. The boat is spacious but cozy enough to make new friends or enjoy some quiet time with your loved ones. The unlimited wine makes it popular among those looking to unwind and enjoy the sunshine, but it’s not a wild party—everyone is well-behaved, as several reviews point out.

It’s especially suitable for those who want a laid-back day, gentle scenery, and a taste of local life. Families with older children who enjoy swimming and boat rides might find it a perfect outing, but it’s not designed for those with mobility issues due to the walking and boat access.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour around Zadar offers a great combination of history, scenic beauty, and good company. The charm of the vintage boat, coupled with the generous supply of Croatian wine, makes for a memorable outing. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, nicely balanced between swimming, sightseeing, and local flavor.

If you’re after a relaxed, social, and scenic experience, this trip delivers that in spades. It’s especially excellent if you enjoy spending time on the water, taking in stunning views, and sampling regional delicacies. The price is reasonable for what’s included, and the crew’s friendliness is often highlighted as a major plus.

For travelers who value authenticity, scenic beauty, and a laid-back vibe, this boat tour hits the mark. Just remember to factor in the weather considerations and the dock fee, and you’ll be set for a lovely day out.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a 120-year-old heritage wooden boat, unlimited white wine, still water, juices, a tour guide, and snorkeling gear.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a mandatory docking fee of €10 per adult and €5 per child for all stops, payable in cash.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for the docking fee. Water shoes might be helpful for walking to the beaches.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including three stops for swimming, exploring, and relaxing.

Is the Hidden Bay stop guaranteed?
No, it depends on the weather. If conditions aren’t suitable, the captain might skip that stop but will compensate with more time at the other locations.

Where do I meet the boat?
Meet at the pier off Obala kralja Petra Kreimira IV street, near the small white lighthouse.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, especially if your children enjoy swimming and boat rides. However, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to walking and boat access.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling is possible because the provider may change plans due to weather.

This boat tour is a solid choice for anyone wanting to soak in Zadar’s coast with good drinks, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed pace. It’s not overly fancy but offers an authentic, friendly vibe that makes for a memorable day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: