Full Day Sailing Tour from Zadar

Authentic Croatian Sea Adventure: Full Day Sailing Tour from Zadar

If you’re dreaming of spending your day on the water, discovering Croatia’s stunning islands and crystal-clear seas, then this Full Day Sailing Tour from Zadar might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a relaxing, scenic, and activity-packed journey, all led by a friendly and experienced skipper. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends or family, this private tour offers an intimate way to experience the archipelago.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how well it balances adventure and relaxation. You get to enjoy refreshing swims in turquoise waters, explore local villages, and savor time on sandy beaches—all in one day. Plus, the route is designed to include some of the most picturesque spots, with plenty of opportunities for photos and memorable moments. The second highlight is how personalized it feels, with only your group on board, making it easier to ask questions or tailor your experience a bit.

One potential consideration is the price: at $650.38 for up to eight people, it might sound steep at first glance. However, when you consider the private nature of the tour, the variety of stops, and the all-day access to beautiful sights, it’s quite competitive. This tour is best suited for travelers who value private, flexible experiences and want to explore the Croatian coast comfortably and authentically.

If you love the idea of sailing, swimming, and island hopping with a small group, then this full-day adventure offers excellent value and a chance to see Croatia from a uniquely relaxing perspective.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Only your group participates, making it intimate and flexible.
• Multiple Swimming Stops: Crystal-clear waters at Kali, Iz, and Sabusa Beach provide ample opportunities to cool off.
• Authentic Island Visits: Explore the traditional village of Veli I for a taste of local island life.
• Beautiful Sailing Route: Cruise through Mali I channel, a noted dolphin hotspot, for extra wildlife sightings.
• All-Day Flexibility: Relax, swim, snorkel, or explore at your own pace during stops.
• Comfort and Professionalism: Skipper is described as friendly, professional, and careful with the boat’s maintenance.

A Detailed Look at the Sailing Day

Starting Point and Early Morning

The tour begins at Sunturist charter d.o.o. in Zadar at 9:00 am. From there, you’ll quickly board a comfortable, well-maintained boat with your small group, adding a cozy and personal touch to your day. The meeting point is conveniently close to public transportation, making it easy to access without hassle.

Ugljan Island – Kali and Otri Bay

Your first stop takes you to Ugljan Island, near the fishing village of Kali. Here, the skipper anchors close to Otri Bay, where you’ll have about 30 minutes to take a dip. Imagine stepping into water so clear you can see your toes, enjoying a peaceful morning swim in the gentle, turquoise sea. The scenery is charming, with traditional Croatian fishing boats and rustic houses adding character to your surroundings.

Cruising through Mali I channel

Next up is a cruise through the Mali I channel, a particularly scenic stretch of water renowned for dolphin sightings. While there’s no guarantee you’ll spot any dolphins, the chance adds a bit of excitement and keeps the mood lively. We loved the way this stretch combines stunning views with the tranquility of sailing—a true highlight for nature lovers.

Island of Iz – Sandy Beach and Snorkeling

After the sail, you’ll anchor near a beautiful sandy cove on the island of Iz. This stop offers roughly 30 minutes to swim, relax, and snorkel. The sandy beach provides a gentle entry into the warm, clear water—perfect for families or anyone who enjoys floating or wading in calm seas. Many travelers find these stops to be the most relaxing parts of the day, giving time to soak in the sun and the silence of the ocean.

Veli I – Traditional Island Village

The final main stop is the village of Veli I, a lesser-known but authentic slice of island life. Here, you’ll likely have about two hours to explore the town, enjoy a meal at a local tavern, or simply wander the streets lined with traditional stone houses. Although the tour doesn’t include a structured guided tour of Veli I, visitors often enjoy the opportunity to see how real islanders live—fishing, farming, and maintaining their simple, peaceful lifestyle.

One reviewer described Veli I as a hidden gem that captures the island spirit perfectly, emphasizing its quiet charm and local authenticity. This stop offers an ideal balance between sightseeing and leisure, especially if you want a break from the more touristy spots.

Final Swim at Sabusa Beach

As the day winds down, you’ll make a quick 15-minute stop at Sabusa Beach, near Kukljica, for a final swim. This sandy beach offers one last opportunity to enjoy the water, perhaps reflecting on the day’s highlights or simply unwinding before heading back to Zadar.

Returning to Zadar

The boat departs Sabusa Beach and heads back to the starting point around 4 pm, giving you a full, satisfying day on the water. The return trip offers scenic views and a chance to relax after a busy day of swimming, exploring, and sailing.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Experiences and Stunning Views

While the tour has only one review on record, it’s glowing: “Wonderful experience! The skipper was professional and friendly, the boat comfortable and well-maintained, and the route absolutely beautiful. Highly recommended!” Such feedback confirms what many travelers hope for in a Croatian sea adventure: a smooth, friendly, and scenic day on the water.

The emphasis on crystal-clear waters and authentic island stops makes this tour particularly appealing. It’s clear from reviews that the views are truly stunning, and the opportunity to see dolphin hotspots adds a touch of wildlife magic for those lucky enough to spot them.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Price: At $650.38 for your group of up to eight, the cost is reasonable considering the private nature of the experience and all-day access. When split among friends, it becomes quite a good deal for a personalized cruise.

Duration: The tour lasts about 8 hours, which gives plenty of time to relax, swim, and explore without feeling rushed. Morning departure at 9:00 am helps you make the most of the daylight hours.

Inclusions: The tour includes all stops and activities—swimming, snorkeling, and island exploring—plus the benefit of a friendly, seasoned skipper. The boat is described as comfortable and well-maintained, adding to the overall value.

Weather Policy: The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, which is reassuring for those worried about unpredictable conditions.

Accessibility: Service animals are allowed, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, making it accessible for various needs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing adventure is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, flexible, and scenic day on the water. It’s perfect for those who enjoy swimming and relaxing at beautiful beaches and want a glimpse of authentic island life away from crowded resorts. The private nature of the tour means it’s suited for families, couples, or small groups seeking a peaceful escape with plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife sightings.

If you’re looking for a luxury cruise with lots of organized entertainment, this might not be your first choice. But for an authentic, relaxed day immersed in Croatia’s best natural scenery, it’s a wonderful pick.

The Sum Up

This full-day sailing tour from Zadar offers a balance of scenic beauty, authentic island exploration, and relaxing water activities. The small-group, private format ensures a more personal and adaptable experience, perfect for those who want to avoid large crowds while soaking in some of Croatia’s finest coastline.

The stops at Kali, Iz, and Veli I provide varied scenery—from tranquil waters and sandy beaches to traditional villages—giving you a well-rounded taste of island life. The potential for dolphin sightings adds a dash of wildlife excitement, and the friendly skipper makes the journey all the more enjoyable.

If you’re after a comfortable, scenic, and authentic Croatian sea experience, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited to travelers valuing privacy, flexibility, and stunning views over a rigid, cookie-cutter cruise. With good weather, it promises a memorable day filled with swimming, exploring, and soaking up the sunshine.

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, only your group will participate, making it a private experience tailored to your preferences.

What is included in the price? The tour covers all stops, activities, and the services of an experienced skipper. It does not specify additional costs, so swimming and snorkeling are likely included.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop at a relaxed pace.

What should I bring? You should bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly snacks or drinks, as the tour doesn’t specify food provisions.

Is there a maximum number of participants? Yes, the group size is up to 8 people, ideal for a private, intimate experience.

What happens in case of bad weather? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can service animals participate? Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

This sailing trip from Zadar offers a genuine taste of Croatia’s coast—beautiful scenery, authentic local stops, and a relaxed pace. It’s a fantastic way to see the islands with a small, friendly group and leave with memories of crystal-clear seas and charming villages.