Zadar: The Best Spots of Dugi Otok Island Boat Tour – 9,5 hr

<h3 id="section-0">Exploring Dugi Otok: An Honest Look at the 9.5-Hour Boat Tour from Zadar

Thinking about stepping onto a boat to discover some of Croatia’s most captivating coastlines? This Zadar: The Best Spots of Dugi Otok Island Boat Tour offers a full day of exploration, adventure, and relaxation, all in a small-group setting. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, we’ve gathered enough insights from reviews and descriptions to give you a solid idea of what to expect.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines exciting speedboat rides with plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel at some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots. Plus, the small-group format, limited to just 12 people, promises a more intimate experience than the usual crowded boat excursions. On the flip side, it’s quite a high-energy day—if you’re looking for a slow, relaxed cruise, this might not be your best fit.

This tour definitely caters well to those who love adventure and want to see a variety of hidden gems without spending a fortune. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers craving a lively day on the water will find plenty to enjoy here. If comfort is your priority, keep in mind the seating can be a bit tight, but the overall experience offers a lot of value.

Key Points

• Small-group size for personalized attention and fewer crowds
• Packed itinerary with seven stops, including snorkeling, beaches, and caves
• Speedboat rides ensure you cover a lot of ground quickly and enjoy the thrill of high-speed travel
• All necessary equipment and bottled water are included, making the day hassle-free
• Highlights include visiting a sunken ship, a lighthouse, and the famous Sakarun Beach
• Cautions for those sensitive to boat seats or seeking a leisurely, slow cruise

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour offers a chance to explore Dugi Otok and its surrounding sights in one day, with seven carefully planned stops designed to give you a taste of Croatia’s stunning coastline. Starting early at 9:00 AM from Zadar, the trip lasts around 8 hours and 15 minutes. It covers a lot, so be prepared for a high-energy, fast-paced day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Obala kneza Trpimira 2 – The Starting Point

This is where your adventure begins. It’s a convenient central meeting point in Zadar, and from here, you’ll hop onto a sleek speedboat. A quick note: many reviewers mention the boat’s size and seating, which can be tight, but it’s all part of a lively, exhilarating ride.

Veli Rat and the Sunken Ship Snorkeling Spot

One of the tour’s favorites is snorkeling around a sunken ship in Veli Rat. Reviewers like Ivanka said, “What a wonderful and fun experience!!” They loved swimming in the pristine waters and exploring local marine life. The Golubinka Sea Cave is also on this route, offering a stunning backdrop for underwater adventures.

Dugi Otok and Hidden Bays

You’ll visit unspoiled nature and crystal-clear waters, with plenty of time to swim and relax. The tour promises thrilling speedboat rides along this scenic island, giving you a rush while taking in the views. Many reviews highlight how the stops are well spaced, allowing enough time for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the landscape.

Veli Rat Lighthouse

This iconic lighthouse is the highest in the Adriatic and offers sweeping views. While the visit is brief—about 15 minutes—reviewers mention that the scenery is worth the stop. It’s a great photo op and a chance to appreciate the rugged beauty of the coast.

Sakarun Beach – Croatia’s Best

Sakarun is praised as the most beautiful beach in Croatia. Its 800 meters of white sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or a quick stroll. Be prepared for the sun—there’s very little shade, so sunscreen and hats are essentials. Some reviews mention the beach as the highlight of the trip.

Bozava Village

A charming stop to experience local life. Walk around the Mediterranean streets, enjoy a gelato or coffee, and appreciate the laid-back island vibe. It’s a brief stop—about 45 minutes—but many say it’s a lovely break from the busy water activities.

Zadar Sea Organ & Greeting to the Sun

The final stop is a scenic boat ride back with views of Zadar’s famous Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun. It’s a relaxing way to conclude the day, with many reviewers noting how beautiful and distinctive these landmarks are.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour packs in a lot, and what’s included makes it a sensible choice for travelers wanting convenience. You get snorkeling gear, bottled water, fuel, and an experienced, English-speaking crew. The guides don’t just pilot the boat—they’re also there to share insights and ensure everyone feels safe and taken care of.

However, some costs are extra—there’s a €30 per person fee for docking and anchoring, payable in cash at check-in. Lunch isn’t included, but the tour operators recommend local restaurants, making it easy to plan your meal. It’s worth noting that the tour isn’t specifically designed for small children or those with mobility issues; the high-speed rides and boat seats might be uncomfortable for some.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros

• The small-group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe
• The itinerary covers seven diverse stops, giving a great overview of Dugi Otok
• Snorkeling and swimming at beautiful, lesser-visited spots
• The speedboat rides are a major thrill, providing quick access to distant locations
• The crew is praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating
• All necessary equipment and bottled water are provided, simplifying your day

Cons

• The boat size can be tight, with limited seating, which isn’t ideal for everyone
• The seating is quite basic—more suited for adventure than comfort
• No shaded areas on the boat, so sunscreen and sun protection are a must
• It’s a high-energy, fast-moving day—not suited for those looking for a leisurely cruise
• The lighthouse and some stops are short visits, so it’s a whirlwind tour rather than in-depth exploration

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love adventure, snorkeling, and exploring scenic spots with a dash of speed and excitement, this tour is a solid choice. It’s ideal for those who want to see a variety of locations quickly without sacrificing the quality of the experience. It’s also great for travelers who don’t mind a bit of rougher boat seating and a day full of activity.

However, if you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced cruise with plenty of shaded comfort, you might want to consider other options. This is more about covering many highlights in one day than about lounging at each stop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the boat tour suitable for children?
Children up to age 8 are strongly advised to share a seat with a parent or guardian. The tour involves high-speed rides and some physical activity, so it’s better suited to older kids and teenagers.

Are snorkeling gear and water provided?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment and bottled water are included, making it easy to stay hydrated and enjoy underwater discoveries without extra hassle.

What’s the duration of the trip?
The total experience lasts about 8 hours and 15 minutes, with the start at 9:00 AM and concluding back at the meeting point in Zadar.

Are the stops long enough to enjoy?
Reviews suggest that time at each stop is well balanced—long enough to snorkel, swim, or walk around, but quick enough to keep up with the fast pace of the tour.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a swimming suit, light summer clothes, a towel, sunscreen, and some cash for extra expenses like meals, souvenirs, or the docking fee.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This small-group boat tour from Zadar offers a lively, adventure-packed day exploring Croatia’s stunning Dugi Otok. It’s perfect for those who want a high-energy, comprehensive experience that hits the highlights—sunken ships, beaches, caves, and scenic vistas—in one go. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the thrill of speedboat rides, make for a memorable outing, especially if you’re craving active exploration.

While it’s not suited for travelers seeking a leisurely cruise or those with mobility issues, it delivers excellent value for the price, considering the variety of stops and included gear. The tiny boat size and limited shade mean you should come prepared for comfort and sun protection.

If you’re after a fun, fast-paced adventure that takes you to Croatia’s hidden treasures and offers a taste of island life, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to pack your sunblock, bring some extra snacks, and enjoy the ride.

Happy travels, and may your Croatian adventure be full of beautiful sights and exciting stories.