Zadar, with its stunning coastline, lively maritime culture, and proximity to dozens of islands, makes for an excellent base for sailing adventures. Whether you’re after a full-day exploration of the Kornati archipelago, a romantic sunset cruise, or a laid-back half-day trip, Zadar offers a variety of options. The full-day sailing trip to Kornati is a highlight, taking you through protected waters and past dramatic cliffs, while the private tours allow for a more personalized experience, exploring less-frequented islands at your pace. What we love most is how many tours include swimming, snorkeling, and even visits to saltwater lakes or donkey reserves—adding a fun, natural touch to your trip.
If you’re looking for a classic Croatian experience, the Zadar: Full-Day Sailing Trip to Kornati stands out with its combination of scenic cruising and natural wonders. The private sailing tours give you the luxury of customization, perfect for families or couples wanting an intimate adventure. For a more relaxed, romantic vibe, the private sunset sail offers breathtaking views that rival anywhere in the world. No matter your style, Zadar’s sailing experiences promise memorable moments on the water.
1. Zadar: Full-Day Sailing Trip to Kornati
At number 1 on our list, the Zadar: Full-Day Sailing Trip to Kornati offers a comprehensive look at Croatia’s most iconic archipelago. For $81 per person, you’ll cruise through Telašćica Nature Park, a protected natural harbor known for its dramatic cliffs and saltwater lake Mir. The trip includes swimming and snorkeling at prime sites, plus visits to the donkey reserve and the towering “Devil’s Cliffs.” This tour ranks highly with an impressive 4.6/5 from over 500 reviews, thanks to its well-rounded itinerary and beautiful scenery. Highlights include cruising past the cliffs, exploring Mir Lake, and relaxing on deck while soaking up the sun.
This tour excels for travelers wanting a full-day immersion into Croatia’s marine landscape. It’s especially good for those who enjoy natural beauty and outdoor activities like swimming and snorkeling. The only potential drawback is the price—though it’s reasonable for a full day of sightseeing and swimming—and the length might be too much for very limited schedules. Overall, a fantastic value for those craving an active, scenic day on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers wanting a complete Kornati experience with swimming, snorkeling, and natural wonders.
2. Zadar Half Day Sailing Trip
Number 2 on our list is the Zadar Half Day Sailing Trip, which costs just $49 per person. This four-hour cruise around Zadar’s closest islands offers quick access to the region’s secret bays and is ideal if you’re short on time but still want a taste of sailing. During the trip, you’ll enjoy swimming in the Adriatic and meet fellow travelers from around the world. The tour allows you to learn some basic sailing tricks, making it both relaxing and educational.
This trip’s key selling points are its affordability and the chance to explore some lesser-known islets of the Zadar Canal. Guests consistently praise the friendly guides and the chance to snorkel in clear waters. It’s best suited for those who want a shorter, less intense experience without sacrificing scenery or activity. The main downside? Limited time means fewer island stops and less opportunity for in-depth exploration.
Bottom Line: A good pick for travelers with a busy schedule who want a quick, fun introduction to sailing near Zadar.
3. Private Sailing Tours in Zadar Archipelago
For around $275.76 per group, the Private Sailing Tours in Zadar Archipelago offer a personalized, family-friendly experience. This 4-hour tour is guided by a professional skipper who brings generations of maritime knowledge, making it ideal for those seeking a tailored outing. You’ll cruise past landmarks like the Sea Organ and Greetings to the Sun, explore islands Ugljan and Ošljak, and have plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the seabed.
Guests often comment on the flexibility and intimacy of this private tour. “Laura knew exactly where to take us for swimming and snorkeling,” one review notes. The tour balances sightseeing with relaxed beach time, making it suitable for families or small groups seeking a more exclusive experience. The main advantage is the custom itinerary; however, it’s pricier, so it’s best for those wanting a full, private day on the water.
Bottom Line: A top choice for small groups or families wanting a bespoke sailing adventure with privacy and flexibility.
4. Experience Zadar Archipelago with private Antares sailing tour
Number 4 is the private Antares sailing tour, which offers a very intimate experience for up to 5 people at about $240 for 4 hours. This tour is run by a family business, with skippers who combine personal stories with deep local knowledge. You’ll visit islands Ugljan and Galevac, and explore special spots like old churches and monasteries. The tour emphasizes tranquility, local culture, and beautiful scenery.
Guests rave about the personalized service and the opportunity to relax while a family guides you through the islands’ natural and historical sites. The included stops allow for swimming and exploring at your own pace. This tour is particularly suited for travelers seeking a quiet, authentic experience rather than a large-group cruise.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups craving a relaxed, custom-crafted exploration of the islands with personal service.
5. Zadar: Sea, Sun, and Wind Half-Day Sailing Adventure
The Sea, Sun, and Wind Half-Day Sailing Adventure costs $53 per person and offers a spirited journey along the Zadar coastline. It’s perfect if you want to feel the wind in your hair and see the quaint fishing villages, with opportunities for quick snorkeling. This tour emphasizes the thrill of sailing in a relaxed setting, with a focus on enjoying the hidden gems of the local coast.
Rated 4.9/5 from 37 reviews, this tour is especially popular for its friendly crew and the chance to explore the coastline from a different perspective. It’s suitable for travelers who want an active half-day outing that combines sailing with sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a short, energetic sailing experience with scenic views and snorkeling.
6. Zadar: Private Sunset Sailing Tour in Zadar Archipelago
Number 6 is the Private Sunset Sailing Tour, priced at $176 for a group of up to 1. It’s a romantic option, perfect for couples or small groups seeking a memorable evening. You’ll cruise the Zadar channel with a bottle of champagne, witnessing the most beautiful sunset in the world, as Alfred Hitchcock famously called it during his visit.
The tour lasts around 2 hours, and guests rave about the “colorful sunset” and the tranquility of sailing after a busy day. It’s an ideal choice for celebrating special occasions or just enjoying a peaceful, intimate moment on the water.
Bottom Line: Suits couples or small groups wanting a romantic, scenic highlight with a champagne toast.
7. From Zadar: Private full day sailing tour
Number 7 offers a full-day private sailing tour for about $599, accommodating up to 8 people. This is the most flexible and in-depth experience, with your own skipper guiding you through the islands and bays of the Zadar archipelago. You can customize the route, choosing to visit quiet bays, charming villages, or snorkel at specific spots.
Guests mention their “great time” with a skipper who is both knowledgeable and accommodating. It’s perfect for dedicated explorers and small groups who want a completely tailored day, including swimming, snorkeling, and possibly fishing.
Bottom Line: The most personalized, all-day option for groups seeking total control over their itinerary.
8. Zadar: Private Sunset Sailboat Tour with Drinks
The Private Sunset Sailboat Tour costs $132 for up to 8 people and combines relaxation with scenic beauty. As the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll enjoy a relaxing cruise with drinks in hand. The tour includes a stop at the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun, adding cultural sights to your sunset experience.
Rated 4.8/5 from 29 reviews, this tour is perfect for small groups or couples looking for a romantic evening. The “colorful sunset” and the peaceful sailing make for a memorable conclusion to your day.
Bottom Line: An intimate, scenic way to end a day in Zadar with a romantic sunset cruise.
9. Full Day Sailing Tour
The Full Day Sailing Tour, priced at $74.45 per person, is a leisurely 9-hour adventure perfect for exploring Ugljan Island. It includes stops at Puntamika Lighthouse and Ugljan’s quiet bays for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll also visit a charming island village for exploring or relaxing.
Rated 5/5 from 16 reviews, travelers enjoy this tour’s relaxed pace and beautiful scenery, as well as the knowledgeable skipper. It’s ideal if you want to slow down and enjoy a full day out on the water.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who prefer a slower, comprehensive sailing experience.
10. From Zadar: Half/Full Day Sailing Tour
Offering flexible options from half to full day, this tour costs $49 per person and is limited to small groups (up to 7). It provides a chance to explore traditional villages, swim, and relax at your own pace, emphasizing a personalized experience.
Rated 4.5/5, travelers appreciate the small group size and the expert guidance of the skipper, making it suitable for those who want a laid-back yet engaging day.
Bottom Line: A flexible, intimate option for those seeking customizable sailing time.
11. Experience Romantic Sunset Sailing on modern 36ft sail yacht from Zadar
This sunset cruise for couples or small groups costs about $89.92 per person and lasts around 2 hours. You’ll sail in a modern yacht, enjoying the spectacular sunset and a relaxed atmosphere. The yacht holds up to eight people, and you can keep your own drinks cool in the onboard fridge.
Rated 4.5/5, reviews highlight the “best sunset trip ever” and the friendly skipper. It’s perfect for romantic evenings or celebrating special occasions.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples and small groups seeking an intimate, scenic sunset experience.
12. Private Sailing Day Tour
Finally, number 12 is a private full-day tour for about $538 for up to 11 people. This is the most comprehensive and flexible option, allowing you to tailor your route with a knowledgeable skipper. You’ll visit quiet bays, islands, and charming villages, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing.
Rated 5/5 from a small number of reviews, travelers love the personalized service and the ability to customize their day. It’s best for groups wanting a private, all-day exploration of the Dalmatian coast.
Bottom Line: The ultimate private experience for those wanting total control of their sailing adventure.
How to Choose the Right Sailing Tour in Zadar
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and personal interests. For a full immersion, the full-day Kornati trip or the private full-day tour offer incredible value. If romance or a special occasion is your focus, the sunset cruises are unbeatable. For a quick taste of sailing, the half-day trips deliver a memorable experience at a lower cost.
Check the tour details for group size, included activities, and itinerary flexibility. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date. Look into options like the private sailing tours if you want exclusivity.
Final Thoughts
Zadar’s sailing experiences range from energetic full-day adventures to intimate sunset cruises. If you want a comprehensive exploration, the full-day Kornati trip is hard to beat, but for romantic evenings, the private sunset cruise is ideal. Small-group tours like the half-day trip or the private custom outings suit travelers seeking flexibility and personalization.
No matter what type of experience you prefer, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these spectacular excursions. Each tour offers a different way to enjoy Croatia’s stunning coast—so choose one that matches your style, and get ready to enjoy a memorable day or evening on the water.