Sailing Island hopping with drinks

Discovering the Charm of Croatian Island Sailing with Drinks

From the moment I read about this sailing island hopping tour in Dalmatia, I was intrigued. For just $68 per person, you get a 4-hour cruise across Zadar’s channels, with plenty of opportunities to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy some water-based fun. The tour, operated by SailingZadar, offers a comfortable sailboat equipped with cabins, toilets, and a fully equipped kitchen. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy the sea without the hassle of organizing everything yourself.

What immediately caught my attention was the chance to bring your own food and drinks, with a fridge onboard ready to keep everything cool. That means you can pack your favorite snacks, beverages, or even a picnic, making it perfect for those who want a personalized touch. I also liked that the tour promises a private beach stop in a pristine bay—ideal for swimming, relaxing, or playing with SUPs and snorkel gear.

One thing to bear in mind is that food and drinks are not included in the price, so you’ll want to plan ahead if you want a full feast or extra beverages. Also, the tour is quite short—just four hours—so it’s best suited for a quick escape rather than a full day of sailing. But if you’re after a relaxed, intimate experience with a friendly skipper and beautiful scenery, this could be just right.

Key points / Takeaways

• Comfortable vessel: Spacious sailboat with cabins, toilets, and a kitchen for convenience.
• Bring your own: Food and drinks are not included, but there’s a fridge onboard for your supplies.
• Private beach stop: Enjoy a tranquil bay for swimming, sunbathing, or water activities.
• Water fun options: SUPs and snorkel gear are available to add some active fun.
• Relaxed pace: A 4-hour trip offers a laid-back experience without feeling rushed.
• Flexible scheduling: Check availability for different start times; perfect for fitting into your trip.

The Unmatched Simplicity of a Croatian Sailing Day

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to enjoy Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast, this island-hopping cruise with drinks hits the mark. The sailing part itself is quite relaxing; your skipper will handle the steering as you sit back and enjoy the views. I love the way the boat is equipped for comfort, with seat cushions, sprayhood, and bimini cover, ensuring you stay cozy and shaded, no matter the weather.

What sets this experience apart is the flexibility and personal touch. You can bring your own food and drinks, which means you have control over what you nibble and sip—think fresh seafood, local wines, or homemade snacks. I’ve read that the welcome drinks and bottled water are included, with local wine to enjoy during your trip. That’s a nice touch, helping to get you in a relaxed mood right from the start.

The highlight for most travelers will be the private beach stop in a pristine bay. It’s genuinely peaceful—no crowds, just your group enjoying the clear waters and sunshine. Guests can also take advantage of SUPs and snorkelling gear, making the trip more than just sitting on deck. One review simply states, “Super Captain war ein toller Tag!” which translates to “Super captain, a great day,” hinting at the friendly and laid-back vibe of the crew.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

The tour begins at the Gat 2, Marina Tankerkomerc, near Barka Caffe—an easy spot to find with most boats docked nearby. After a short check-in, your skipper—presumably friendly and knowledgeable—will set sail across the Zadar channel, a scenic waterway dotted with islands and coastlines. The sailing itself is quite pleasant, with a good balance of comfort and adventure.

The main event is the anchoring in one of the island bays. Here, you’ll have time to swim, snorkel, or paddle around on SUP boards. This part of the tour is where you truly feel like you’ve escaped the bustle—dipping into crystal-clear waters and relaxing in a secluded setting. You can also just lie on the deck soaking up the sun, which many guests find the most memorable part.

In this serene bay, the crew provides snorkel gear and SUPs, making it easy for everyone to get active if they wish. The fully equipped kitchen and fridge onboard mean you can enjoy your own food or drinks during the stop. Once your time is up, the skipper will set sail back, returning you to the marina with plenty of time to continue exploring Zadar.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers in need of a quick, relaxing sea escape. It’s an excellent choice if you’re traveling with friends or a small family, especially if some prefer lounging while others want water fun. The private beach stop is ideal for those who value intimacy and tranquility away from crowded beaches.

If you’re someone who enjoys bringing your own snacks and beverages, this tour suits you perfectly. It’s also a good fit for travelers seeking a short, flexible activity that fits neatly into a half-day itinerary. The friendly crew and relaxed vibe appeal to those who want a bit of local charm without overcomplicating things.

However, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to pack accordingly. Also, since the trip lasts just four hours, it’s best for those who don’t mind a quick outing rather than a full-day adventure.

The Value of a Short Sailing Trip in Croatia

At $68, this tour offers solid value. It provides a well-equipped boat, a private bay with water activities, and the possibility to bring your own supplies—saving money compared to longer or more elaborate cruises. The inclusion of welcome drinks, bottled water, and local wine adds a touch of hospitality that enhances the experience.

While the trip is brief, it packs in plenty of memorable moments. The privacy of the bay allows for peaceful swimming and sunbathing, and the water sports gear ensures you get some active fun. Plus, the professional but friendly skippers (one review simply called the captain “super”) help keep the experience lighthearted and enjoyable.

This tour is an excellent introductory experience for those new to sailing or Croatia. It’s straightforward, fun, and offers a taste of what sailing along the Dalmatian coast is like without the commitment of a full-day or multi-day journey.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

Travelers who prefer short, relaxed outings will find this perfect. It’s also great for small groups or couples looking for an intimate way to enjoy the coast. If you’re traveling with kids or teenagers, the water activities and the casual vibe make it suitable for a family adventure.

Those keen on customizing their experience—by bringing their own food or drinks—will appreciate the flexibility. And if you’re not a fan of large crowds, the privacy of this private bay stop is a definite advantage.

Final Thoughts

For a short, budget-friendly, and charming taste of Croatia’s sailing culture, this island-hopping tour with drinks offers a lot. You get a comfortable boat, a peaceful bay, and the freedom to pack your own snacks and beverages. The friendly skipper, combined with the opportunity for water fun, makes it an engaging option without feeling overdone or rushed.

If you’re seeking a relaxed half-day with some sun, sea, and the chance to unwind, this tour provides a nice balance of comfort and adventure. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a personalized experience in a beautiful setting, without the fuss of large group tours.

FAQs

Is food included in the tour?
No, guests need to bring their own food and drinks, but there is a fridge onboard to keep everything cool.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with check availability for specific start times.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Gat 2, Marina Tankerkomerc, near Barka Caffe, and finishes back at the same meeting point.

Are there water activities available?
Yes, SUP boards and snorkelling gear are available for guests to enjoy during the stop.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and water activities suggest it could be suitable for families with children comfortable in the water.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, especially during peak season, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
The tour is conducted in Croatian and English.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the boat comfortable?
Absolutely. The vessel is equipped with cabins, toilets, a kitchen, and seating cushions to ensure comfort during your trip.

This sailing tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience Croatia’s beautiful coast. Whether you’re after a quick escape, some water fun, or a scenic sail in a relaxed setting, it hits the right notes. Just remember to pack your snacks, bring your sunhat, and enjoy a peaceful day on the water.