Private speedboat tour : Sakarun beach, Dugi otok, Golubinka Cave

Exploring Croatia’s Coastal Gems on a Private Speedboat Tour

If you’re eyeing a trip to Zadar and want to see some of Croatia’s most breathtaking spots from the water, this private speedboat tour promises a personalized adventure. It’s a chance to glide along the coast, visit secluded beaches, and explore sea caves—without the crowds or rigid schedules that often come with group tours.

What we really like about this experience is how flexible it is. You get to customize your stops, spend as much time as you like swimming or snorkeling, and enjoy the kind of scenic beauty that’s hard to beat. Plus, with a knowledgeable skipper at the wheel, you won’t have to worry about navigation or logistics.

That said, one thing to consider is that this isn’t an all-inclusive package—lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for that. The price, around $360 per person, is quite fair considering the private nature of the trip and the inclusions like snorkeling gear and fuel.

This tour suits travelers who want an intimate, scenic day on the water, especially those who appreciate a touch of luxury and flexibility. It’s particularly good if you’re traveling as a small group or family and prefer to avoid overly structured group excursions.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: This is a private tour, so you can customize your stops and activities.
• Scenic Routes & Hidden Caves: Expect to see stunning sea caves only accessible by boat, like Golubinka Cave and Dragon Eye Cave.
• Flexible Itinerary: The schedule is entirely up to you, including where to anchor and how long to stay at each location.
• Inclusive Equipment: Snorkeling gear is provided, giving you easy access to explore underwater sights.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup from Zadar is offered, making the start straightforward and comfortable.
• Value for Money: For around $360, you get private transportation, a skipper, fuel, and snorkeling equipment, making it quite a good deal for a full-day adventure.

Setting Off from Zadar: What to Expect

This tour kicks off from Uvala Draanica in Zadar, with a flexible schedule that runs roughly 7 to 8 hours. The experience is tailored for small groups—up to 12 people—ensuring a more intimate feel. When we look at reviews, it’s clear that the small-group setting really enhances the experience, with travelers feeling they get undivided attention from their skipper.

Once aboard, you’ll quickly realize how smooth and luxurious a private speedboat can be. The boat is fast enough to cover a lot of ground, yet comfortable enough to relax and enjoy the stunning views. The real highlight is the chance to see parts of the coast that are only accessible by boat—like the famous Golubinka Cave, a must-see for anyone who loves sea caves and rugged coastline.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Stop 1: Dugi Island (Long Island)

Your journey begins with a cruise out to Long Island, which is often called a nautical paradise for a reason. The high, razor-sharp cliffs and clear waters set the stage for breathtaking scenery. The highlight here is the Golubinka Cave—accessible only by boat—featuring striking blue waters and a Dragon Eye-shaped formation that’s Instagram-worthy.

One reviewer noted, “We were too late for the caves but still loved the beautiful views and the fast boat,” which shows how flexible the tour can be if weather or timing don’t cooperate perfectly. Another guest mentioned how their skipper, Marko, took them to private spots for swimming, emphasizing the personalized nature of the trip.

Stop 2: Veli Zal & Sakarun Beaches

After exploring the caves, you’ll have the chance to visit some of Dugi Otok’s renowned beaches, such as Sakarun. Known for its shallow, turquoise waters and soft sand, Sakarun Beach is perfect for relaxing, swimming, or just soaking in the scenery.

The tour allows for free time here—so you can snorkel near a sunken vessel or just lounge on the sand. One traveler appreciated the flexibility, saying, “Skipper was adorable and well-benevolent,” and he was happy to accommodate requests for swimming or sightseeing.

Snorkeling & Sunken Vessel

Included in the price is snorkeling equipment, making it easy to explore underwater. You might find the sunken vessel near some of the beaches a particularly fun spot for underwater adventures. Several guests raved about the private swimming spots, with one mentioning how their guide took them “to beautiful sites to swim that were private and off the beaten path.”

The Experience: What Makes It Special

The real charm of this tour is its exclusivity. Since it’s private, you won’t be grouped with strangers or stuck with a rigid itinerary. Instead, your skipper can adapt the day based on weather conditions, your preferences, or even the mood of the group.

The reviews support this, with guests noting how accommodating their skipper was and how the flexible schedule made the experience feel personal. “Marko was an excellent skipper,” one review states, “he took us to hidden spots and was flexible to our requests.”

The scenic views are truly something else—crystal-clear waters, towering cliffs, and sea caves that are only visible from the water. The boat’s speed allows for quick travel between destinations, maximizing your time at each stop.

Practical Details & Value

At around $360 per person, the cost covers private transportation, a skilled skipper, snorkeling gear, and fuel. The cost makes sense when you consider the private experience and the convenience of having everything organized for you. Remember, lunch isn’t included, so plan ahead for meals—perhaps pack a picnic or plan to grab something at one of the local eateries later.

Starting from Zadar, the pickup is straightforward, and the tour operates daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the season. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the trip, which offers some peace of mind in case of weather issues.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value privacy and flexibility. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with a small group or family and want a day tailored to your interests. If you enjoy scenic drives, snorkeling, and discovering hidden spots, this tour hits all those notes. It’s also great for those who appreciate expert guidance—your skipper is there to enhance your trip, not just drive the boat.

It’s not a good fit if you’re looking for a heavily scheduled, all-inclusive package with meals included. Plus, if you’re sensitive to weather or prefer to stay on land, this might not be the best choice, although the flexible cancellation policy helps mitigate that concern.

The Bottom Line

All in all, this private speedboat tour offers a wonderful way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful coastlines and sea caves with a personal touch. The combination of stunning scenery, personalized stops, and snorkeling makes it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting to make the most of their time on the water.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic day with the freedom to choose where to go and how long to stay, this experience will not disappoint. It’s especially great for small groups or families who want to avoid the crowded, structured tours and enjoy the Croatian coast at their own pace.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is private, meaning you can customize the experience to suit children’s needs. Just ensure they’re comfortable with boat rides and snorkeling.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, snorkeling equipment, fuel, and a skipper. Lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. Since it’s a private tour, the schedule is flexible and can be tailored to your preferences.

What’s the best way to prepare for snorkeling?
Bring your own waterproof sunscreen and a towel. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can also bring your own if preferred.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Uvala Draanica, Obala kneza Trpimira in Zadar.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, group discounts are offered, making this an even better deal for small parties.

What should I bring?
Bring snacks or lunch, sun protection, a towel, and a sense of adventure.

How many people typically join?
The tour is designed for small groups of up to 12 people, providing an intimate experience.

If Croatia’s coast calls to you, this private speedboat experience is a fantastic way to see the best spots on your own terms. It’s a scenic, flexible, and personal adventure that’s perfect for making your Croatian visit truly memorable.