Zadar Private Authentic Wooden Boat tour with unlimited champagne

A Practical Look at the Zadar Private Wooden Boat Tour with Unlimited Champagne

If you’re dreaming of cruising along Croatia’s stunning coast on a beautifully restored wooden boat, this Zadar private tour might catch your eye. Designed for those who appreciate a blend of relaxed sailing, cultural stops, and a touch of luxury, this experience promises a memorable day on the water.

What we like about it? First, the authentic charm of the vintage wooden vessel, which offers a genuine Adriatic feeling—nothing beats the sound of the engine and sails mixed with the waves. Second, the unlimited champagne is a nice touch, adding a bit of celebration to the day.

However, a key consideration is that, based on one review, the actual experience might not always go smoothly—there’s a report of the boat not showing up for a reservation. So, while the concept is appealing, travelers should be prepared for potential hiccups with the booking process.

This tour is especially suited for those seeking a private, leisurely day on the water with a touch of elegance. It’s perfect if you love scenic views, swimming stops, and a relaxed pace, but perhaps less ideal if you’re looking for a super structured or family-focused adventure with lots of activities.

Key Points

• Authentic wooden boat offers a classic Adriatic sailing experience.
• Stops on Ugljan Island and Galevac provide a mix of nature, culture, and peaceful scenery.
• Unlimited champagne adds a touch of luxury, perfect for celebrations or just feeling special.
• Snorkeling equipment is included, making it easy to explore under the sea.
• Price point is on the higher side, but reflects a private, tailored experience.
• Booking in advance (average 13 days ahead) is advised, though experiences may vary.
• One review warns that the boat might not always show up, so it’s worth confirming your reservation.

Breaking Down the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

You’ll meet at Obala kneza Branimira 27 in Zadar, with the tour lasting about 4 hours. This is a decent length for a relaxed day on the water—long enough to enjoy multiple stops and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. Since the tour is private, it’s just your group, which enhances the feeling of exclusivity.

The Vessel: San Luca Magno

The boat itself is quite special. It’s a restored traditional wooden motor-sailing vessel, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern comforts. This means that while you’re experiencing something authentic, you’re also likely to enjoy a smooth ride. From what we gather, the boat’s style and build evoke the classic Dalmatian sailing tradition, making it a scenic centerpiece in itself.

Itinerary and Stops

Ugljan Island Bay

Your first stop is in an amazing bay on Ugljan Island, where you’ll have about an hour to swim, relax, or just enjoy the views. The waters here are ideal for snorkeling, and since snorkeling gear is included, you can explore the underwater world if you wish. Travelers often enjoy this part for its tranquility and natural beauty.

Oljak Pass By

Next, the boat will pass by Oljak, giving you a chance to see the island from the water. While you won’t stop here, it’s a scenic moment and offers a different perspective of Ugljan.

Galevac Island and Preko Village

The second main stop is Otok Galevac, in front of the village of Preko, where you’ll stay for about 1.5 hours. This is a prime spot for swimming, taking photos, or strolling along the waterfront. It’s worth noting that admission fees are not included for Galevac, which is a small extra expense if you decide to land and explore.

Cultural and Natural Highlights

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of nature, local culture, and breathtaking views. The chance to see Dalmatian fishing villages, traditional boats, and unspoiled islands from the comfort of your private vessel creates an intimate connection to the coast.

The Return and Final Views

As the boat begins its return to Zadar, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city from the sea—a lovely way to end the day. The relaxed pace allows for unwinding and taking those last photos of the coastline.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $1,023.28 per group, this experience isn’t exactly a budget option. But considering it’s a private cruise for up to 12 people, the cost breaks down to a more manageable amount per person if you’re traveling with friends or family. The inclusion of unlimited champagne and snorkeling gear adds value, especially if you’re looking for something special and exclusive.

That said, some travelers might find the price steep compared to other group tours or island-hopping packages. The key is whether the private, luxurious feel and the authentic boat outweigh the cost for you.

A Caution from a Review

One review points out that “Caution! Zadar sailing did not come to the meeting. They did not honor our reservation and did not report it to Viator so that we could get our money back.” This is a red flag for potential booking issues. It highlights the importance of confirming your reservation and possibly having a backup plan. While this isn’t necessarily typical, it’s worth keeping in mind.

Practicalities and What You Should Know

Booking and Confirmations

Most travelers book this tour about 13 days in advance. Confirmation is typically quick, but given the review about no-shows, it’s wise to double-check your booking closer to the date. Since it’s a private tour, communication with the provider, ZADAR SAILING, is key.

What’s Included and What’s Extra

You get snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and unlimited champagne, which makes for a comfortable and fun outing. The mandatory docking fee of 10 EUR per person (adults and children) is paid in cash at each stop, so budget for that.

Accessibility and Family Friendliness

While the tour is suitable for most travelers, there’s no specific mention of children-friendly amenities, so use your judgment based on your kids’ comfort with boats and water. Service animals are permitted, which is a considerate touch.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal if you’re after a private, relaxing day on the water, enjoying scenic views, swimming, and having a bit of bubbly. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic boats and cultural stops and are okay with a somewhat flexible itinerary.

If you’re traveling as a couple, small group of friends, or a family with older children, you’ll likely find this experience a memorable way to see part of Croatia’s coast. It’s less suited for those seeking a highly structured tour or with very young children who might find boat travel or swimming challenging.

Final Thoughts

This Zadar private wooden boat cruise offers a lovely blend of luxury, authenticity, and natural beauty. The chance to sip unlimited champagne, snorkel in clear waters, and explore quaint islands makes it a compelling option for those wanting an elegant day at sea. The vessel’s charm and scenic stops are genuinely attractive, especially if you’re after a personalized experience.

However, the booking uncertainty noted in one review suggests that you should confirm your reservation well in advance and perhaps keep a backup plan just in case. Keep in mind the price point—it’s not the cheapest way to see the coast, but for a private experience, it can be worth it.

Overall, if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and slightly indulgent day, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to Zadar, especially if you value authenticity and exclusivity in your adventures.

FAQ

Is this a group or private tour?
This tour is private, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, giving enough time for stops, swimming, and enjoying the scenery.

What’s included in the price?
You get snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and unlimited champagne, making it a comfortable and festive experience.

Are there any extra fees I should know about?
Yes, there’s a mandatory docking fee of 10 EUR per person paid in cash for each stop, which covers port charges and other expenses.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing a full refund if plans change.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a towel—most of your needs will be covered onboard, but it’s good to be prepared.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, use your discretion if traveling with very young children or those uncomfortable on boats.

This tour offers an appealing glimpse of Croatia’s coast in a private, relaxed setting—just keep an eye on your reservation, and you’ll likely have a memorable day on the water.