Exploring Dugi Otok by Speedboat: An Honest Look at the 9-Hour Tour
If you’re considering a day trip around Zadar’s nearby islands, a speedboat tour to Dugi Otok could be just what you’re after. Based on the experiences shared by travelers, this adventure promises a full day of stunning scenery, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring some of Croatia’s lesser-known gems. While we haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, the feedback and itinerary details paint a pretty compelling picture.
We love how this tour hits multiple highlights in one day — from the legendary Sakarun Beach to the intriguing military tunnels, there’s plenty to see and do. Plus, the boat ride itself sounds like a smooth, comfortable way to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of driving or ferry schedules. On the flip side, it’s a fairly long day, and some may find the busy timetable a little rushed if they prefer more time at each stop.
This kind of trip suits travelers who enjoy a packed schedule and love discovering scenic spots with a mix of relaxation and exploration. If you’re traveling with people who appreciate panoramic views, snorkeling, and a taste of Croatian island life, this is likely to fit the bill. It’s especially appealing if you’re keen on experiencing multiple locations without the hassle of organizing your own transport.
Key Points
- All-in-One Day Adventure: Six stops including beaches, lighthouses, tunnels, and a shipwreck make for a varied experience.
- Comfortable Speedboat: The tour uses fast, well-rated boats, making long distances more manageable and fun.
- Snorkeling & Swimming Opportunities: Not just sightseeing — you’ll get chances to hop in the water at several points.
- Inclusive Lunch: A meal in Bozava, with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian, adds value.
- Well-Organized Schedule: Departure at 9AM from Zadar, with precise timings for each stop, ensures a full day.
- Limited for Very Young or Mobility-Restricted Travelers: Not suitable for children under 6 or those with recent surgeries or mobility issues.
Setting the Scene: What to Expect from the Tour

This 9-hour speedboat trip is designed as a comprehensive day of island highlights, with six main stops packed into a manageable schedule. It starts early, leaving from the Ina gas station in Zadar at 9:00 AM, so you’ll want to arrive a little earlier to settle in. The morning kicks off with a quick ride to Sakarun Beach, one of Croatia’s most breathtaking stretches of sand. We’ve seen plenty of rave reviews about how spectacular this beach looks — with clear waters and soft, white sand that’s perfect for relaxing and taking photos.
Following the beach stop, the boat heads to the Veli Rat Lighthouse, which offers stunning views and photo opportunities. Later, you’ll explore military tunnels, a fascinating slice of Croatia’s history, and visit the sunken ship for snorkeling. This particular highlight is frequently mentioned as one of the most memorable parts of the trip — swimmers love the chance to see an underwater wreck and enjoy the clarity of the water.
Midday, there’s a well-timed break for lunch in Bozava. The included meal is a real perk, with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes. From reviews, the quality is generally good, and most travelers appreciate having a proper break and a tasty meal. After lunch, the boat will take you to Muline, a quiet spot with calm waters and a peaceful vibe before heading back to Zadar around 6:00 PM.
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The Highlights in Detail
Sakarun Beach
This is often the main draw for visitors. Known as one of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches, Sakarun boasts a long stretch of fine sand and shallow turquoise waters. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the views — many travelers describe it as a postcard scene. The tour’s timing at Sakarun allows enough time to relax, explore, and take photos before moving on.
Sunken Ship & Snorkeling
The underwater wreck is a highlight that many reviews single out as memorable. Snorkelers can enjoy the chance to see the shipwreck and the vibrant marine life around it. The water clarity and variety of fish have earned praise — though, naturally, snorkeling conditions depend on the weather.
More Great Tours NearbyVeli Rat Lighthouse
Perched on the northern tip of Dugi Otok, this lighthouse offers sweeping vistas of the coast and sea. It’s a good spot for photos and soaking in the scenery. The stop here is brief but well-timed to enjoy the view without feeling rushed.
Military Tunnels
A reminder of Croatia’s past, these tunnels provide an interesting glimpse into the island’s history. Many travelers find this stop intriguing, appreciating the chance to explore a different aspect of the island’s story.
Exploring Telascica Bay
While not detailed extensively in the tour description, the bay of Telascica is mentioned as an area to explore. Known for its natural beauty and calm waters, it’s an ideal spot for relaxing after the sightseeing stops.
Muline & Bozava
Muline offers a peaceful anchorage before heading back, and the visit to Bozava for lunch is both convenient and scenic. The restaurant options seem to satisfy most travelers, offering hearty meals with local flavors.
Practical Details and What You Should Know

Price & Value: At €120 per person, this tour offers quite a bit — six stops, snorkeling, lunch, and a comfortable boat ride. Most reviews agree that it’s a good value, especially considering the included meal and organized schedule. Keep in mind that the price covers a full day of diverse experiences, so if you’re keen on seeing a variety of spots without organizing your own transport, this makes sense.
Departure & Duration: Starting at 09:00 from Zadar makes for a long day, but that’s necessary to fit everything in. The tour lasts around 9 hours, so be prepared for a day that runs from early morning to early evening.
Group Size & Comfort: The boats are described as fast and comfortable, and the group size is not specified but is likely moderate given the typical tour setup. If you’re someone who prefers a quieter trip, booking early might help.
What to Bring: Pack essentials like sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, and some cash for extras. Because you can bring snacks and drinks, consider carrying some fruit or water for added comfort.
Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 6, wheelchair users, or individuals with recent surgeries. This is primarily a sightseeing and water activity experience, so those with mobility issues might want to consider other options.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines scenic boat rides with multiple fascinating stops, this trip has a lot to offer. It’s ideal for travelers who love water-based activities like snorkeling and enjoy exploring different landscapes within a single day. The included lunch and well-organized schedule help make it a hassle-free option.
However, if you prefer more time at each location or need a more relaxed pace, you might find this tour a bit tight. Also, for families with very young children or individuals with mobility concerns, it’s probably not the best fit, given the specific restrictions.
Overall, for those wanting a picture-perfect day with stunning views, a splash of history, and great spots for swimming, this Dugi Otok speedboat tour is quite a solid choice. It’s a chance to see what makes this part of Croatia special — without the stress of planning every detail yourself.
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FAQ

How many stops are included in the tour?
There are six main stops, including Sakarun Beach, Veli Rat Lighthouse, military tunnels, a sunken ship for snorkeling, Muline, and Bozava for lunch.
What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 09:00 from Ina gas station in Zadar.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is included in the price, with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes at a local restaurant in Bozava.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, covering all stops from the morning departure to the late afternoon return.
Can I bring my own drinks or snacks?
Absolutely. You’re allowed to bring non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, or fruit to enjoy during the day.
Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling around the sunken ship is part of the experience, and many travelers find this to be a memorable highlight.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 or those with certain mobility restrictions. The focus is on water activities and sightseeing.
What should I wear?
Bring comfortable clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a towel. Swimwear or beachwear is recommended for swimming stops.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour, except assistance dogs.
To sum it up, this speedboat trip offers a well-rounded taste of Dugi Otok’s natural beauty and hidden corners. With plenty of scenic highlights, a good-value lunch, and the thrill of snorkeling, it’s an appealing choice for active travelers eager to maximize their island experience in a single day. Just be prepared for a busy schedule and bring your sense of adventure.
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