Zadar: Sakarun – Dugi otok Luxury Speedboat Tour with Lunch

This experience made our article of The 12 Most Popular Lunch Experiences In Zadar.

Exploring the Dugi Otok: Sakarun Beach & More — A Detailed Review

Imagine spending a full day cruising along Croatia’s scenic coastline, stopping at some of the most captivating spots on Dugi Otok Island. This speedboat tour from Zadar promises a day of sun, sea, history, and good food, all wrapped into a manageable 8.5-hour adventure. While we haven’t personally boarded, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a promising picture for those eager to see Croatia’s less-visited islands with a splash of luxury and hands-on exploration.

What we love about this experience is how it balances relaxation and adventure — the pristine Saharun Beach offers ample time to unwind in clear, shallow waters, while the visits to sunken ships and military tunnels add a dash of intrigue. Plus, the lunch included in the trip means you won’t go hungry exploring Croatian cuisine.

One consideration? The long boat ride might be tiring for some travelers, especially if they struggle with boat motion or prefer a more leisurely pace. Also, the docking fee of 20 euros per person isn’t included in the price, so be prepared for that extra expense.

This tour suits travelers who want a full-day, active experience with plenty of scenic stops, great food, and a taste of local history. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a mix of natural beauty and cultural sights, and who don’t mind spending several hours on a boat.

Key Points

• Stunning beaches: Sakarun Beach’s white sands and shallow waters are ideal for swimming and relaxing.
• History and intrigue: The sunken shipwreck and military tunnels add a unique historical dimension.
• All-inclusive meal: Lunch options include meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes, making it convenient and tasty.
• Small group size: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Cost includes snorkeling gear: Great for those wanting to explore beneath the surface.
• Timing: Starts early at 9 a.m., with return around 5:30 p.m., fitting into most day plans.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Sakarun Beach: A Natural Wonder

The tour kicks off with a visit to Saharun Beach, often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world. Its white sand and crystal-clear shallow waters make it an inviting spot for swimming or simply soaking up the sun. The shade from deep pine trees adds comfort and a welcome respite from the Croatian sun. As one reviewer noted, “The water was beautiful,” although a bit of brown debris was present—likely seaweed blown in by the wind. But don’t let that deter you; the natural beauty more than compensates.

The Sunken Merchant Ship: A Touch of Maritime Mystery

After a couple of hours relaxing on the beach, the boat heads to explore the wreck of the merchant ship Michelle. Rumor has it that the ship was intentionally sunk in 1984 to claim insurance, though details remain a charming mystery. The snorkeling gear provided makes exploring the wreck accessible even for beginners, giving you a glimpse into Croatia’s maritime history. One reviewer commented, “Stop at the wreck with amazing impressions,” highlighting how memorable this stop can be.

Military Tunnels: A Glimpse into the Past

Next, the tour visits the military tunnels, once used as warship shelters. These tunnels, now open for exploration, offer insight into the island’s strategic importance and wartime history. With 45 minutes allocated, it’s enough to admire the tunnels and imagine their past purpose. While the tunnels are free to visit, they add a fascinating layer to your understanding of the region.

Lunch at a Family Restaurant

Given Croatia’s reputation for excellent, fresh seafood and hearty home cooking, the included lunch is a highlight. You can choose between meat, fish, or vegetarian options, which are served at a family-run restaurant. Reviewers praised the delicious seafood dish and the overall quality of the meal. It’s a good chance to enjoy authentic Croatian cuisine in a cozy setting, away from tourist traps.

Muline Bay: Nature’s Relaxation Spot

The final stop at Muline Bay is a picture-perfect natural cove with pine trees touching the sea and a sandy beach. Here, you can swim, relax, or simply enjoy the scenery. With about an hour allocated, it’s enough to unwind at the end of your busy day, reflecting on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details and What They Mean for You

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling by luxury speedboat offers a swift, smooth ride that maximizes your time on each stop. The group size is capped at 12, which means more personalized attention and less jostling. The boat’s fuel surcharge and parking fees are included in the price, but there is a docking fee of 20 euros per person—a typical extra in Croatia, so budget accordingly.

Duration and Timing

Starting at 9 a.m. and returning around 5:30 p.m., this tour makes for a full day of activity. The schedule is tight but manageable, with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed. The 8.5-hour duration suits travelers who want an active day but not one that extends into the late evening.

Cost and Value

At approximately $119 per person, considering the included snorkeling gear, lunch, and multiple stops, this trip offers good value. The small group experience enhances the overall enjoyment, providing a more intimate atmosphere than large bus tours.

Potential Drawbacks

The long boat rides can be tiring if you’re not used to being on the water or if the weather turns windy. Also, the extra docking fee can surprise some travelers if unprepared. A couple of reviewers mentioned the boat ride as “long” but acknowledged the stops made it worthwhile.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback from past participants is mostly positive. One reviewer appreciated the company and boat quality: “Everyone was cool, and the boat was great.” They enjoyed the delicious seafood lunch but expressed slight disappointment with seaweed debris at Sakarun Beach—a natural occurrence, not something the tour can control. Another traveler called it an “absolutely recommendable tour,” highlighting the beautiful bays, good lunch, and interesting shipwreck. The only common suggestion? Some would like beverages on board, which isn’t included but could be brought along.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for active travelers who enjoy a mix of beach relaxation, historical sites, and good food. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind spending several hours on a boat and appreciate small-group experiences. It’s also suited to travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip that combines natural beauty with a touch of Croatian history.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour from Zadar offers a well-rounded experience of Dugi Otok’s most captivating sights, from the stunning sands of Sakarun Beach to the intriguing shipwreck and military tunnels. The lunch included makes the day hassle-free, and the small group size ensures a more personalized vibe. While the long boat rides might not appeal to everyone, the scenic stops, excellent food, and historical interest make it a worthwhile choice for many.

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that balances relaxation, exploration, and Croatian flavor, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially fitting for curious travelers eager to witness the island’s natural beauty and hidden stories on a well-organized, value-conscious trip.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9 a.m., allowing you to maximize your day on Dugi Otok.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the speedboat ride, snorkeling equipment, fuel, parking, and a three-course lunch (meat, fish, or vegetarian).

Is there an extra fee I should be aware of?
Yes, a 20 euro per person docking fee is payable on-site, not included in the initial price.

How long is each stop?
Sakarun Beach gets around 2 hours, the shipwreck and tunnels about 45 minutes each, lunch lasts an hour, and Muline Bay is an hour.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Beverages are not included, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you wish.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but small children or those sensitive to boat motion might find the long rides tiring.

What about the weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll get a full refund or alternative date.

How many people are on each tour?
The maximum is 12 travelers, making it more intimate than large group tours.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and confirm availability.

In sum, this tour offers a chance to enjoy Croatia’s dazzling coastline, explore some hidden historical gems, and indulge in local cuisine—all in one day. For those who love a mix of relaxation and adventure with a small-group feel, it’s a solid choice.