Zadar: Sakarun – Dugi otok Luxury Speedboat Tour with Lunch

My review of the Zadar: Sakarun – Dugi otok Luxury Speedboat Tour with Lunch centers around a full-day adventure designed for those eager to explore Croatia’s stunning islands by sea. Priced at around $113.49 per person, this 8.5-hour trip packs in several highlights, from the famous Saharun Beach to a sunken merchant ship and intriguing military tunnels. Led by Marko Skoljarev, the tour departs from Uvala Draanica at 9 a.m., returning around 5:30 p.m., with a group capped at 12 people to ensure a comfortable and engaging experience.

What I really appreciate about this tour is its blend of natural beauty and history, wrapped up with some delicious Croatian cuisine. First, the stunning, crystal-clear waters and white sands of Saharun Beach are truly worthy of their reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. I also like how the tour includes practical extras like snorkeling equipment and a well-prepared lunch at a family-run restaurant—your choice of fish, meat, or vegetarian options. The small group size means you get a more personal experience, and you’re never just a number.

One thing to consider is the long boat ride, which can be physically demanding for some travelers, especially those not used to boat travel or with mobility issues. Also, there’s a minor disappointment noted in reviews where some saw seaweed debris on Sakarun Beach—a natural occurrence caused by strong winds and protected species that the authorities are not permitted to remove. This isn’t a dealbreaker but worth knowing if pristine beaches are your top priority.

Key Points:

• Stunning scenery at Sakarun Beach and Muline Bay makes this trip visually memorable.
• Inclusion of lunch and snorkeling gear adds great value, removing extra costs and hassle.
• Varied itinerary with a sunken ship and military tunnels offers a mix of relaxation and history.
• Small group size ensures a more intimate, less rushed experience.
• Departure early in the morning maximizes your time on the water and at stops.
• Weather dependency could affect the experience, and cancellations are possible in bad conditions.

An In-Depth Look at the Dugi Otok Speedboat Adventure

This tour is a well-rounded way to see a part of Croatia that many visitors overlook—Dugi Otok, a sizable island with impressive landscapes, historical sites, and friendly local spots. It’s also perfect if you want to avoid crowded tourist spots and prefer a more personal, small-group experience.

Starting point and logistics

Your day begins at the Uvala Draanica meeting point in Zadar. From there, a luxury speedboat whisks you across the water, cutting down travel time and providing ample opportunities to enjoy the coastal views. With only 12 travelers max, you’ll find the atmosphere relaxed, with plenty of room to sit back and take it all in.

The trip naturally suits those who appreciate early starts and can handle a fair bit of boat time. The 8.5-hour duration includes travel, stops, and lunch, meaning your day is well filled but not rushed. For travelers looking to maximize their time exploring without sacrificing comfort, this setup works nicely.

The highlights of the itinerary

First stop: Sakarun Beach. This stretch of white sand and shallow, clear waters makes for fantastic swimming and lounging. I love how the tour includes two hours here, enough time to paddle in the sea, sunbathe under a pine tree, or take photos of the landscape. As one review notes, there was some brown debris (probably seaweed) on the rocks, which is typical during strong south winds and is protected species under EU law—so cleaning it isn’t an option. It’s a small caveat, but the water itself is described as beautiful and inviting.

Second stop: The Sunken Ship, Michelle. Just a five-minute boat ride from Saharun, this shipwreck is fascinating. Rumors suggest it was deliberately wrecked in 1984 for insurance purposes, but now it’s a popular spot for snorkelers and divers alike. As one reviewer put it, the wreck “peaks above the sea level, inviting guests to check it out,” adding an intriguing historical twist to your day.

Third stop: Military Tunnels. These tunnels served as shelters during wartime and are a fascinating relic of Croatia’s military history. You won’t need to pay extra—a free entry makes this a noteworthy stop to stretch your legs and imagine how the tunnels once protected soldiers. It’s a quieter, more contemplative experience, adding depth to your island exploration.

Lunch at a Family Restaurant. The included meal is a highlight, with choices tailored to different dietary preferences: fish, meat, or vegetarian. Good food is a key part of Croatian culture, and the fact that it’s served at a small local restaurant adds authenticity. Reviewers mention the deliciousness of the meal, especially if you opt for seafood.

Final stop: Muline Bay. A perfect, pine-shaded bay for swimming and relaxing, offering a peaceful end to your day’s adventures. It’s a chance to soak up the sun and enjoy the natural beauty of the coast.

What travelers are saying

Feedback is generally very positive. Many appreciate the well-organized nature of the tour and the small group size, which creates a friendly atmosphere. One reviewer said, “Everyone was cool, and the speedboat was great,” which underlines how manageable and inviting the experience can be.

Another reviewer highlighted the diverse stops—from the beautiful beaches to the wreck and tunnels—describing the tour as “absolutely recommendable,” despite noting that the long boat ride can be somewhat taxing. This is definitely a trip for those who enjoy being on the water and are prepared for a day that combines sea, history, and nature.

Practical tips

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—the Croatian sun can be strong, especially when out on the water.
• Snorkeling gear is included, but you might want to bring your own fins or mask if you have a favorite.
• Comfortable clothing and swimwear are essential, along with a towel.
• Lunch is included, so no need to bring extra food, but water bottles might be useful.
• Consider an early start if you want more time at each stop; the tour leaves promptly at 9 a.m.

Who is this tour best for?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy sea activities, scenic views, and a touch of history. It suits small groups better, so if you prefer personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, you’ll be pleased. It’s also good for families or friends who want a comprehensive day out that balances leisure and exploration.

The Sum Up

The Dugi otok speedboat tour from Zadar offers an accessible, engaging way to see some of Croatia’s lesser-known but breathtaking coastal sights. With stunning beaches, intriguing shipwrecks, and military tunnels, combined with a delicious Croatian lunch, it delivers both relaxation and adventure. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the included snorkeling gear and food make it good value for the money.

If you’re looking for a day that mixes natural beauty, history, and good food in a relaxed setting, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of boat time and want a rich, memorable experience without too much fuss.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 8 hours 30 minutes, including travel, stops, and lunch, starting at 9:00 a.m. and returning around 5:30 p.m.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers snorkeling equipment, fuel, parking fees, and a lunch with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian meals. Entry to Sakarun Beach is not included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks and fins are included in the tour at no extra cost.

Are there any extra costs I should know about?
You may need to pay admission fees for Sakarun Beach separately, as that’s not included in the tour price.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Is there any flexibility with lunch options?
Yes, you can choose between fish, meat, or vegetarian, and meals are served at a local family restaurant.

What should I bring?
Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), swimwear, a towel, and possibly a water bottle for the journey.

How is the weather impact?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
Travelers who like small-group adventures, enjoy beach time and snorkeling, and are interested in some light historical sights like shipwrecks and tunnels.

This tour strikes a nice balance between natural beauty, history, and Croatian flavor, making it a memorable way to explore Dugi Otok’s highlights. It’s a top choice if you want a relaxing, scenic day with a touch of adventure.