Daysailing & SUP experience

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water while visiting Zadar, Croatia, this Daysailing & SUP experience offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking views. Though we haven’t personally booked this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a memorable way to enjoy Croatia’s coast.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to sail on your own boat with a knowledgeable skipper—a rare treat that combines independence with expert guidance. The inclusion of water sports like stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling adds an active dimension, perfect for those who enjoy hands-on fun.

One potential consideration is the price point of around $144 per person, which, while good value given the length and inclusions, might seem high for travelers on a tight budget. Still, for lovers of water-based activities, scenic beauty, and good company, this cruise offers a compelling package.

This tour is especially suited for travelers seeking a combination of relaxing sailing, active water sports, and scenic exploration—ideal for families, couples, or groups who want to experience Croatia’s coast authentically.

Key Points

• Relaxed and flexible: Your own private boat with a skipper ensures personalized service.
• Includes water sports: SUP boards and snorkeling gear make for engaging activities.
• Scenic stops: Multiple stops around Ugljan Island, Osljak Island, and Olive Island for swimming, relaxing, and sightseeing.
• All-inclusive refreshment: Light lunch and alcoholic drinks like beer and Maraska liqueur are on the house.
• Good value: About 8 hours of water-based fun for a reasonable price.
• Family-friendly: Friendly guides and versatile activities suit all ages.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting the Day: Departure and Introduction

The tour begins around 10:00 am, with an 8-hour window to enjoy the coastline. The meeting point is conveniently accessible via public transportation, making it easy to join without the hassle of private transfers. Once aboard your cruiser sail yacht, you’re greeted by your skipper who will serve as your guide, captain, and often, your chef—based on the glowing reviews of the captain’s hospitality and expertise.

The First Stop: Ugljan Island and Frnaza Bay

After setting sail, your first highlight is crossing the channel to Ugljan Island. The initial anchorage at Frnaza Bay is perfect for a coffee break, a chance to soak in the scenery, and enjoy some swimming, snorkeling, or stand-up paddleboarding. The equipment is included, so you can hop in the water or try your hand at paddling without any extra fuss.

Travelers like Kendall_B appreciate the “lovely family experience” and praise the skipper for knowing “how to fix things that break on a boat,” which hints at a well-managed and relaxed atmosphere. The water might still be a bit cold if you’re there early in the season, but that’s part of the charm—refreshing and invigorating.

Midday: Olive Island and Sailing

After your water activities, the boat heads toward Olive Island Marina for lunch. The light lunch and drinks—including beer and Maraska liqueur—are included in the price, providing a welcome break and a chance to unwind while enjoying the views. The restaurant setting adds a touch of local flavor, and many reviews mention the generous servings and well-stocked bar as highlights.

Following lunch, there’s usually more sailing, which allows you to experience the sensation of being under sail rather than motor power, a feature that many sailing aficionados appreciate. The sailing wasn’t just about transport but about enjoying the gentle motion of the boat and the sea breeze.

The Final Stop: Osljak Island and Swimming

Later in the day, the boat often makes a final stop at Osljak Island, where swimming opportunities abound. The water here is ideal for snorkeling and cooling off, and the reviews mention how the skippers take guests to “beautiful and not-too-crowded places,” offering a peaceful escape from busy tourist spots.

End of Tour: Return and Reflection

As the day winds down, the boat heads back to the original meeting point, usually around 6 pm. Travelers often leave with a sense of accomplishment—having experienced Croatia’s coast from a different perspective—along with memories of serene waters, lively water sports, and good company.

The Water Sports: SUP & Snorkeling

One of the tour’s biggest draws is the included stand-up paddleboards and snorkeling gear. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-timer, you’ll appreciate how accessible these activities are, thanks to the equipment provided. This flexibility is reflected in reviews mentioning “SUP on board” and “sailing along not-too-crowded places,” giving you both activity and tranquility.

The paddleboards are perfect for exploring the calm waters around the islands, and snorkeling offers glimpses of marine life just below the surface. For many, these add a delightful dimension to a day already packed with scenic sailing.

The Guide and Crew: Knowledgeable and Friendly

Reviewers consistently praise the skipper—not just for steering the boat but for creating a friendly, relaxed environment. Ethan_A described their skipper as “a wonderful host, tour guide, chef, and captain,” emphasizing how much personality and expertise can make the day special.

A good skipper makes all the difference, especially when they’re attentive to guests’ needs, know the best spots to visit, and can adapt the route to weather conditions or group preferences. From the reviews, it’s clear that Captain Rajko and other skippers are well-liked for their friendly attitude and local knowledge.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $144 per person, this cruise offers about 8 hours of sailing, water sports, scenic stops, and drinks. When you consider the inclusions—light lunch, alcoholic beverages, snorkeling, and SUP gear—the value becomes evident.

Compared to other water-based tours in the area, this experience offers personalized service with a small group capped at 10 travelers, ensuring a less crowded, more intimate atmosphere. Many reviews highlight how the well-equipped boat and attentive crew make it feel like a premium experience at a reasonable price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water—whether that’s sailing, swimming, or paddling. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want a relaxed, scenic day without the crowds of larger, commercial excursions.

It also appeals to those who value authentic local experiences, since the stops are off the beaten path and managed by skippers familiar with the coast. If you’re after a combination of leisure and activity with excellent food and drinks included, this cruise fits the bill.

The Sum Up

This Daysailing & SUP experience in Zadar stands out as a well-rounded, friendly adventure on the Croatian coast. You’ll love the personalized sailing, the chance to try water sports, and the beautiful stops around Ugljan, Olive Island, and Osljak Island. The inclusion of light lunch and beverages adds a touch of comfort, making it a good value for a full day on the water.

While the price may seem steep compared to some basic tours, the small group size, experienced crew, and scenic stops justify the cost for most water lovers. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, authentic Croatian sailing experience with plenty of opportunities to swim, paddle, and unwind.

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and flexible way to explore Zadar’s coast—and don’t mind a moderate price—this tour offers a memorable, hands-on adventure that balances activity and relaxation beautifully.

FAQ

What is the starting time for the tour?
The tour begins at 10:00 am, giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy the entire day on the water.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, including sailing, water activities, stops, and lunch.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the reviews suggest it’s family-friendly. Water activities like snorkeling and SUP are generally accessible for kids, but it’s best to check the age restrictions with the provider.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the cruise yacht, a skipper, snorkeling equipment, SUP boards, and alcoholic drinks like beer and Maraska liqueur, plus a light lunch.

Are drinks and lunch available on board?
Yes, alcoholic beverages and a light lunch are included, making for a comfortable, relaxed experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Hats, sunscreen, bathing gear, and towels are not included but recommended for comfort and sun protection.

Is the boat motorized or sailing-only?
The tour is on a cruiser sail yacht, and the experience emphasizes sailing rather than motorized travel.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are typically on the tour?
The tour caps at 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate, personalized experience.

This Zadar sailing adventure offers a lovely blend of scenic beauty, active water sports, and genuine Croatian hospitality. Perfect for water lovers who want more than just sightseeing—here’s a chance to truly experience the coast from the deck of a well-equipped sailboat.