From Zadar: Private full day sailing tour

If you’re considering a day on the water in Zadar and want something more intimate than a regular cruise, a private sailing tour might just be what you’re after. This experience offers a chance to enjoy Croatia’s stunning coastlines and islands on your own terms, with a dedicated skipper and a boat just for your group. Whether you’re celebrating, traveling with friends, or simply craving a peaceful day away from the crowds, this tour promises a personalized adventure.

What we really like about this trip is how it combines flexibility with the chance to relax or explore as you wish. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling and fishing equipment means you can dive into the waters whenever you feel like it. At the same time, one small caveat to keep in mind is that this is a full-day trip, so it’s best suited for those who are ready to spend a good chunk of time on the water. Overall, if you’re after a quiet, tailored experience exploring Zadar’s coast, this tour could be just right.

This trip suits travelers who want more than just a sightseeing cruise—those who appreciate the chance to customize their day, indulge in water activities, and enjoy some downtime on beautiful islands. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, or small families looking for a laid-back yet adventurous escape.

Key Points

• Private and personalized: Your own skipper and boat mean no crowded schedules or noisy groups.
• Flexible itinerary: You can focus on what interests you most—be it swimming, snorkeling, or island visits.
• All-included gear: Snorkeling and fishing equipment are provided, making water activities easy and accessible.
• Comfortable timing: An 8-hour trip starting at 9:00 am gives plenty of time for multiple stops and relaxation.
• Convenient meeting point: Located at Marina Tankerkomerc, right on Zadar’s waterfront.
• Cost-effective for groups: Around $600 for up to 8 people, which often works out well compared to booking multiple tickets for a shared cruise.

What to Expect from a Full Day of Sailing in Zadar

This private sailing adventure is designed for those looking to enjoy the water at a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring. The experience begins at Marina Tankerkomerc, a convenient spot in Zadar’s city center, where you’ll meet your skipper and board your boat around 9:00 am. From there, the day is yours to shape—your skipper will guide you through the scenic archipelago, but you’re encouraged to voice your preferences.

The boat itself is equipped for comfort and fun, with snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, and plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy the views. The skipper’s knowledge and friendly attitude ensure that you’re well taken care of, and you’ll get insider tips on the best spots to visit.

Exploring the Zadar Archipelago

The tour’s main draw is the chance to cruise around the Zadar archipelago, a string of islands dotted with local villages and pristine bays. As you glide through the waters, you’ll enjoy the gentle sway of the boat and the breathtaking views of the Croatian coast. The boat’s flexibility means you might sail to secluded beaches, vibrant marine life hotspots, or charming villages where you can walk around, snap photos, and soak in the local atmosphere.

One thing that stands out from reviews is how well the trip caters to different interests. For example, Stephanie shared how her day was filled with swimming, snorkeling, and a fresh seafood lunch, all with a very patient captain. The ability to pause at a spot for a swim or to fish adds an element of spontaneity that many travelers find appealing.

Water Activities: Snorkeling and Fishing

Included in the tour are snorkeling and fishing gear, so you’re ready to get into the water whenever you want. This is a real plus, especially if you love exploring marine life or just want to cool off in a scenic bay. Many guests, like the reviewer who appreciated the “use of snorkeling equipment,” find these activities highlight the tour’s relaxing vibe.

Keep in mind that if you’re not into water sports, there’s still plenty to enjoy on deck—sunbathing, taking in the views, or simply unwinding while your skipper navigates to the next spot.

Island Visits and Local Villages

While the tour is mainly focused on cruising and water activities, there’s also the option to visit nearby islands like Osljak or Ugljanto. These islands offer a peek into local life, with small villages, quiet beaches, and some scenic walks. It’s up to you whether to spend more time exploring ashore or sticking to the boat for a more laid-back experience.

One of the lovely aspects highlighted by satisfied guests is the customizable nature of the trip. The skipper can adapt the schedule based on your preferences, whether that’s more swimming, island hopping, or just relaxing in a bay.

The Value of a Private Tour

At roughly $599 for a group of up to 8, this experience is quite competitive, especially considering it’s a full-day, private adventure. For groups, it often makes more sense financially than booking separate tickets for a shared cruise. Plus, the personalized service and ability to tailor the itinerary mean you get a more exclusive, less rushed day.

One thing to note is that you’re responsible for your own lunch and snacks, which gives you the freedom to choose what and where to eat—whether you bring along a picnic or decide to dine on a local seafood restaurant ashore.

The Experience from Reviews

Feedback from travelers shows pretty consistent satisfaction. Stephanie described her trip as “absolutely wonderful,” praising the patience and friendliness of her captain, Tino, and mentioning the “great time” full of swimming, a seafood lunch, and even a nature walk. Similarly, Johann appreciated the knowledge of skipper Sasa and how stress-free the day was.

A less positive review recounted a slight mix-up with the meeting time, but these seem to be rare glitches and don’t detract from the overall appeal of the experience.

Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing

• Book in advance: On average, this tour is booked about 23 days ahead, so plan early if you want to secure your preferred date.
• Start early: The 9:00 am start gives you a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.
• Bring essentials: Sunscreen, hats, swimwear, and a towel will make your day more comfortable.
• Budget for extras: Lunch isn’t included, so consider packing a picnic or planning to dine ashore.
• Consider tipping: While not required, a tip for your skipper is customary if you’re happy with the service.
• Check the weather: The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private sailing trip is ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful, tailored day on the water with no large crowds. It’s perfect for couples who want a romantic day, friends seeking adventure, or small families wanting flexible activities. If you’re someone who enjoys water sports like snorkeling or fishing, you’ll also get plenty of opportunities.

However, if you prefer a quick, budget-friendly trip or don’t like being on boats for long stretches, this might not be the best fit. Also, prepare for a full day—this isn’t a quick hop or a half-day excursion.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is private and flexible, it involves a full day on a boat, so children should be comfortable with boat trips and water activities. Always check with the provider if you’re traveling with young kids.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 9:00 am, providing plenty of daylight for exploring and swimming.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Lunch and snacks are not included, so bringing your own or planning to buy something ashore is recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is flexible, and your skipper can adapt the day based on your preferences for swimming, island visits, or just relaxing.

What’s included in the price?
Use of snorkeling and fishing equipment, the sailboat, and all fees and taxes. Fuel is also covered.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Less than 24 hours, and you’ll forfeit your payment.

Is it easy to find the meeting point?
The tour departs and ends at Marina Tankerkomerc, which is conveniently located on Zadar’s waterfront, near public transportation.

For anyone craving a personalized sailing experience in Zadar, this tour offers a wonderful mix of relaxation, water fun, and island exploration. It’s especially good if you appreciate having control over your day, want to avoid large crowds, and enjoy water activities like snorkeling and fishing. The positive reviews underline how well it balances comfort and adventure, with many travelers praising their captain’s friendly attitude and local knowledge.

While it’s a bit of a splurge compared to more generic excursions, the privacy, flexibility, and scenic beauty make it worth considering. Just remember to plan ahead, pack your essentials, and be prepared for a full, leisurely day on Croatia’s stunning coast.

Enjoy your sailing adventure in Zadar! It’s a fantastic way to create memories on the water, discovering some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots at your own pace.