Zadar to Sakarun Beach Tour, Shipwreck Dive & Tunnel – 4,5hr

If you’re considering exploring the stunning Croatian coast beyond the usual tourist spots, a Zadar to Sakarun Beach Tour with stops at a sunken ship, the famous sandy lagoon, and a military bunker offers an engaging half-day adventure. This tour promises a blend of relaxed cruising, snorkeling, and cultural sights, perfect for travelers craving a personalized experience away from the chaos of large cruise groups. We’re not claiming to have done it ourselves, but based on consistent reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s a solid choice for those interested in authentic, scenic excursions.

What we love about this tour is its small-group format, which ensures a more intimate experience—less crowded, more personal, and easier to enjoy the scenery. Plus, the well-rounded itinerary balances adventure and relaxation: snorkel around a historic sunken ship, lounge at the breathtaking Sakarun Beach, and learn about Cold War history at a submarine bunker. The one possible consideration? The tour’s 4.5-hour duration means packing light, and the schedule might feel rushed for those wanting more time at each stop. Still, it’s well-suited for travelers who value a quick, diverse taste of the Zadar archipelago.

Ideal for families, couples, or lone travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and water activities, this tour offers value and diversity without stretching your day too long. If you’re after an authentic seaside experience that includes snorkeling gear, bottled water, and local insights, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small group size (up to 12 travelers) makes for a relaxed, personalized experience
• Includes snorkeling gear and bottled water, removing logistical worries
• Diverse itinerary combines natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural stories
• Avoids crowded cruise routes, offering a more authentic feel
• Ideal for active travelers who enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and scenic cruising
• Weather-dependent, with a full refund or alternative date if canceled due to poor conditions

An In-Depth Look at the Zadar to Sakarun Beach Tour

The first thing you’ll notice about this tour is its focus on small-group intimacy. With a maximum of 12 people, you won’t be crammed into a large, noisy boat. Instead, the experience feels more like a day out with friends—more opportunities to chat with your crew, learn local stories, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The tour is operated by Zadar Archipelago, a company with a good reputation reflected in most reviews, which praise the friendly, knowledgeable crew.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

1. Snorkeling at the Sunken Michele Ship
The adventure begins with snorkeling around a sunken ship just off a sandbank near the lighthouse. This spot is a highlight, especially for those interested in a bit of underwater exploration. The ship, Michele, is a relic that has become an artificial habitat for local fish, making it a lively and colorful spot. Reviewers mention that the water here is crystal clear, providing excellent visibility. One traveler described it as “really cool,” and many appreciated the opportunity to see marine life close up. The 30-minute stop offers enough time to snorkel around, but some noted that the current can occasionally get a bit choppy, so bringing a windproof jacket or extra clothes is advised.

2. Cruising Past Veli Rat Lighthouse and Veli Rat Village
Next, your boat glides along the coast, giving you fantastic views of the Veli Rat Lighthouse and the quaint village of Veli Rat. This is a slower pace segment, perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the scenery. You’ll hear stories about local life here, giving a glimpse into how people live on these remote islands. It’s a peaceful, scenic stretch that sets the tone for the day.

3. Sakarun Beach
The star of the tour is undoubtedly Sakarun Lagoon—a stretch of white sandy beach and shallow turquoise waters that makes many visitors instantly fall in love. With an hour and a half allotted, you’ll have plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, or play the traditional Dalmatian game of picigin in the shallow waters. Multiple reviews praise the beach’s natural beauty, with one describing it as “a heaven on earth.” Some travelers noted they wished for a bit more time here, but the pace of the tour keeps it manageable. The beach is free to access, but bring your own towel, sunscreen, and any beach toys you enjoy.

4. Cold War History at Potkop Bukain Bunker
A quick 10-minute stop takes you to a Yugoslav underground boat shelter, where you can explore Cold War military history and snap photos of the submarine bunkers. Some snorkel or swim in the nearby bay afterward, adding a surprising historical twist to what might seem like just a beach day. Reviewers appreciated the storytelling here, finding it an interesting contrast to the natural beauty.

5. Cruise Along Zadar’s Seaside Promenade & the Sea Organ
The boat tour continues with a scenic cruise past Zadar’s famous Sea Organ and Greetings to the Sun installation, two modern art projects that integrate sound and light with the sea. Though these are not stops, they give you a chance to enjoy the city’s innovative side and learn about how art and music are interwoven into the local landscape.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and water toys
– Fuel, navigation, and safety equipment
– An experienced, English-speaking crew who double as tour guides

Not Included:
– Docking/anchoring fees (€20 per person, payable at check-in)
– Lunch (recommendations are provided, but it’s at your expense)
– Personal expenses and souvenirs

The additional fees and optional extras are clearly communicated, although some reviewers mentioned surprises about the €30 charge at the meeting point, which underlines the importance of confirming payment details beforehand.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Most travelers rave about the friendly crew, especially mentioning their helpfulness and knowledge. For example, one traveler said, “Our skipper Fran was professional & accommodating,” highlighting the personal touch. The scenic views are universally praised—from the lighthouse to the blue waters surrounding Sakarun. Several reviews mentioned the good value for money, especially considering the inclusion of snorkeling gear, bottled water, and a mix of activities.

A few critiques focus on the snorkeling conditions. Some found the water at the sunken ship a bit choppy, which can challenge less experienced swimmers. Others wished for longer time at certain stops or better snacks, but overall, the tour’s pace and content received positive feedback.

Pricing at around $77.93 per person seems reasonable given the variety of stops and included gear, especially for travelers who value a small-group experience over large cruise-style tours. The tour’s duration is enough to see some key sights without feeling rushed, although if you’re a water fanatic or history buff, you might want to add extra days or choose other excursions for deeper exploration.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who love snorkeling, scenic cruising, and a touch of history. Families with children who are comfortable in water will find it just right, especially since the water toys and snorkeling gear are included. If you prefer a quiet, more intimate outing—away from big groups—this tour delivers. It’s also a good option if you want a balanced mix of natural beauty and cultural stories in a half-day format.

On the flip side, travelers who need more time on each location or are extra sensitive to rough water conditions might find the itinerary a bit brisk. Also, those with mobility issues should note that some stops involve short walks or snorkeling in open water.

Final Thoughts

The Zadar to Sakarun Beach tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and educational experience for those wanting to see the best of the archipelago without the crowds. It’s a value-packed trip, especially with snorkeling gear, bottled water, and a knowledgeable crew making the journey smooth and enjoyable. The stops at the sunken ship and Cold War bunker add a layer of historical interest, while Sakarun Beach remains a highlight for ultimate relaxation and picture-perfect swimming.

This tour suits travelers who want a bite-sized adventure—a mix of water activities, cultural insight, and stunning scenery—without spending all day on the water. Its small-group nature guarantees a more personalized experience, perfect for making memories. Just bring your sense of adventure, a light sunhat, and perhaps a small cash reserve for extras.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to the tour start point?
You need to meet at Obala kneza Trpimira 2 in Zadar; check your map or contact the provider for details on public transit options.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring swimwear, a towel, light summer clothes, sunscreen, and cash for personal expenses. The tour supplies snorkeling gear and water.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 4.5 hours, enough to visit key spots without it feeling too rushed.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children up to age 8 are recommended to share a seat with a guardian. Parental guidance is advised, especially for small children and those with health concerns.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Are there any extra costs?
Docking/anchoring fees (€20 per person) are payable cash at check-in. There’s also a €30 fee at the meeting point, which should be clarified beforehand.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Is snorkeling equipment suitable for all levels?
Most reviews mention the gear is sufficient, but water conditions can vary. If you’re unsure, bring extra clothes or consider your swimming comfort.

Can I extend my time at Sakarun Beach?
This is a half-day trip, with limited time at the beach. For more relaxation, consider booking additional days or other tours.

How do I prepare for the Cold War stop?
It’s a brief 10-minute stop, mainly for photos and history; no special prep needed. Just wear comfortable clothes and be ready to explore the bunker.

In sum, this tour provides a delightful combination of scenic cruising, underwater discovery, and cultural insight—all in a small-group setting. Whether you’re snapping photos of Veli Rat, swimming in turquoise waters, or learning about Cold War history, it offers good value and genuine memorable moments for those interested in a balanced Croatian day out.