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

Thinking of exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast by boat? This speedboat tour from Zadar promises a day packed with scenic stops, turquoise waters, and memorable moments. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, so you can decide if it’s worth your time and budget.

What caught our eye? First, the chance to visit some of the most stunning beaches and caves on Dugi Otok — especially Sakarun Bay’s famous white sand. Second, the private boat setup feels more personal than big group excursions, making it perfect for a relaxed, customized day. That said, a potential hiccup is that Golubinka Cave isn’t always accessible, depending on weather conditions. This tour suits travelers who love a mix of nature, adventure, and a touch of luxury on the water.

Key Points

• Private speedboat experience offers a flexible and intimate day on the water.
• Highlights include Sakarun Bay, Veli al beach, and Golubinka Cave, with options for snorkeling and swimming.
• Weather conditions can impact cave visits, so flexibility is key.
• The tour provides snorkeling gear, water, and safety jackets, which helps keep things simple.
• Price is $506 per group (up to 2 people) — good for couples or friends looking for a special day.
• Some reviews mention that the trip might feel rushed or expensive if you’re hoping to visit all beaches or embark on complex activities.
• This is ideal for those who want a scenic, laid-back boat trip with opportunities to relax on beautiful beaches and see natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting your day in Zadar’s Marina Tankerkomerc, you’ll hop aboard a private speedboat with a professional skipper who will take you along a route designed to maximize sightseeing and relaxation. The whole experience lasts about 8 hours, giving you a generous window to explore, swim, and unwind.

First Stop: Sakarun Bay

Imagine stepping onto a pristine white sand beach, surrounded by pine forests and turquoise waters. This spot is often praised for its beautiful scenery and beach bar, making it an ideal place to lounge, dip your toes, or enjoy a cold drink. We loved the way Sakarun’s calm, clear waters invite peaceful swimming — a perfect start or finish to your day.

Second Stop: Veli al Beach

Next, your boat heads towards the lesser-known but equally stunning Veli al beach. Situated on the open waters of Dugi Otok’s uninhabited side, this “Big Beach” offers some of the most vibrant waters in the region. It’s a perfect place for a swim or quick snorkel, with the added bonus of being less crowded and surrounded by natural beauty.

Third Stop: Golubinka Cave

The highlight for many is the Golubinka Cave, a natural marvel where light filters in, creating colorful reflections inside the cave’s waters. You’ll have a chance to snorkel and explore here, feeling like you’re discovering a secret hideaway. However, it’s worth noting that access to the cave depends heavily on weather and sea conditions—if the waves are too high, the cave might be off-limits. One reviewer pointed out that the cave can’t be visited without a canoe, and sharp cliffs can make entering tricky, especially if you’re not comfortable with swimming or snorkeling in rocky waters.

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Last Stop: Sakarun Bay (again)

After exploring the cave and Veli al, you’ll return to Sakarun Bay for some well-deserved relaxation. You’ll find ample space on the beach, a beach bar, and the option to grab lunch (though note that food isn’t included and on-site prices may be high). This return allows for a laid-back wind-down, soaking in the sun and enjoying the scenery.

The Practical Side

The boat is included in the price, along with a professional skipper, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and life jackets. You’ll need to bring your own swimsuit and towel, which is simple enough for a day at the beach. The tour starts at Marina Tankerkomerc in Zadar, with parking available nearby—although parking charges are extra.

One of the main costs to keep in mind is fuel, which is paid separately (around 240 kuna, payable in cash). The total price of $506 covers up to two people, making it a good value for a private experience, especially if you’re traveling as a couple or duo.

The experience’s pace and flexibility

While the itinerary sounds packed, some travelers find that the stops are a bit rushed, especially if you want to spend more time on each beach or explore at a leisurely pace. Conversely, others appreciate the variety and the chance to see multiple spots in one day.

What the Reviews Say

The mixed reviews are worth considering. Several travelers rave about the beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and overall value. One reviewer called it “the best” experience and praised the guide’s friendliness and professionalism. Many appreciated the opportunities for snorkeling and swimming.

However, not everyone had a perfect time. One guest found the price high relative to the activity, feeling that not all beaches were accessible and describing the experience as somewhat hurried. The same reviewer pointed out that Golubinka Cave was difficult to visit due to sharp cliffs and the need for a canoe, which isn’t always available or practical.

Another traveler shared that the trip was “driven around the sea” with limited sightseeing, and the return was bumpy due to wind and waves. It’s clear that weather can significantly impact the experience—so flexibility is essential.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a scenic, peaceful day on the water with multiple stops in beautiful surroundings, this tour could be perfect. It offers a good mix of beach relaxation, snorkeling, and natural wonders. It’s especially suited for couples or friends wanting an exclusive experience, given the private boat setup.

However, if you’re looking for deep exploration of caves or beaches, or intend to visit every spot in detail, this might feel a bit limited. The cost and the weather dependency are factors to consider, especially if you’re traveling on a tight budget or visiting during uncertain weather seasons.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for those comfortable with boat trips, swimming, and snorkeling. Younger children might enjoy the beaches and calm waters, but the cave visit depends on weather and sea conditions, so consider their comfort level.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear and a towel for swimming and lounging. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and life jackets, so you’re set in those departments.

How long does the tour last?
It’s an 8-hour experience, starting from Zadar’s marina and returning back at the same meeting point.

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

What’s included in the price?
The price covers boat rental, a professional skipper, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and life jackets. Fuel expenses are paid separately.

What if the Golubinka Cave can’t be visited?
If weather or sea conditions prevent access, about 80% of the fuel surcharge will be refunded, so you won’t be out of pocket for something you couldn’t experience.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Yes, parking is available at Marina Tankerkomerc, with a fee of around 12 kuna per hour or max 90 kuna per day.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour from Zadar offers a well-rounded taste of Dugi Otok’s beauty. The combination of stunning beaches, a natural cave, and turquoise waters makes it a memorable outing. The private boat setup means you won’t be stuck with large crowds, and your skipper will guide you through the highlights.

That said, the experience can be weather-dependent, and some might find it a bit rushed if they’re wanting to explore each spot more thoroughly. The cost per group is reasonable if you’re looking for a personalized, scenic day on the water. Just make sure to set your expectations about the cave visit and plan accordingly.

Overall, if you enjoy beach lounging, snorkeling, and seeing natural wonders from a boat, this tour is a solid choice. It’s best for those wanting a relaxed but active day, with plenty of chances to soak up the beauty of Croatia’s coast.

Happy sailing!

You can check availability for your dates here: