Zadar: Kornati, Ship wreck Sakarun, Golubinka,speedboat tour

Contents show

Zadar: Kornati, Shipwreck Sakarun, Golubinka, Speedboat Tour — A Complete Guide

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is a dream for many, and one of the best ways to do so is through a full-day speedboat adventure from Zadar that takes in the highlights of Kornati National Park, Dugi Otok, and nearby attractions. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, detailed reviews and the itinerary reveal a journey packed with scenic beauty, thrilling boat rides, and plenty of opportunities for relaxing swims.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the stunning variety of sights—from shipwreck snorkeling to pristine beaches. Second, the expert guidance and well-organized schedule ensure you get the most out of your day. Third, the value for money, especially considering the included snorkeling gear, drinks, and the chance to explore multiple islands and caves. A possible consideration? The speed of the boat and quick stops might not suit travelers seeking a more relaxed, cultural experience. It’s best suited for those who love adventure, nature, and lively outings on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Expert-led full-day adventure exploring Kornati, Dugi Otok, and nearby attractions
Multiple stops for snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing in crystal-clear waters
Fast-paced boat ride that’s exhilarating but may feel rushed for some
Includes snorkeling gear, water, and drinks like prosecco and gin tonic
Requires cash for park fees and berthing costs, roughly 30 EUR
Ideal for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic boat trips

Looking for more options in Zadar? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

What to Expect on This Speedboat Tour from Zadar

This experience offers a comprehensive look at some of Croatia’s most celebrated natural sites, all wrapped into a single day of adventure. Starting early in the morning at the Zadar dock, you’ll meet your skipper, who will guide you through the itinerary, ensuring safety and fun along the way. The boat itself is a RIB speedboat, designed for swift, comfortable cruising, with enough space for a small group, making the entire journey intimate but lively.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Lagnii Cliffs on Dugi Otok are your first stop. Here, you’ll have the chance to take in the views of the Veli Rat lighthouse and admire the rugged coastline. The cliffs are notable for their dramatic drop-offs and striking scenery, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the views.

Next, you’ll visit the shipwreck of “Michelle”, a relic resting in the water that has become a favorite snorkeling spot. As one reviewer pointed out, “the snorkel stop at the shipwreck revealed a home to many fish and some coral formations,” making it an exciting encounter with marine life. The water here is clear, allowing for excellent underwater visibility. Reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides who gave helpful tips, with some even stopping to watch dolphins, a delightful surprise for travelers.

Lojena Beach in Kornati National Park is another highlight, offering soft sands and protected waters ideal for swimming. The shallow, calm waters make it a great spot for relaxing, and you might find yourself staying longer than planned. One guest noted, “The water was so beautiful that I could have stayed all day.”

Golubinka Cave, accessible via a boat ride along the coast, reveals one of the area’s unique geological features. Inside, snorkelers can explore the underwater cave, which displays stunning blue hues and underwater formations. A reviewer called this stop “memorable,” emphasizing the wonder of snorkeling through an underwater tunnel.

The final stops include Sakarun Beach, often praised for its white sands and shallow waters, perfect for unwinding after a day of activity, and Mana Island, known for its dramatic cliffs and historic significance. The free time in Vrulje Bay allows for a seaside lunch or simply relaxing in the serene surroundings—some reviewers even remarking how they enjoyed a cold drink while soaking up the sun.

What’s Included & What to Bring

The tour includes snorkeling gear, water, and drinks like prosecco and gin tonic, adding a touch of luxury to the adventure. The skipper is knowledgeable and friendly, with some guests mentioning Dino by name as a standout guide.

Remember to bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash (around 30 EUR for park fees). The boat ride can be fast and bumpy—so pack accordingly if you’re sensitive to motion.

More Great Tours Nearby

Group Size & Duration

The tour typically lasts around a full day, with the boat ride itself being exhilarating and quick-paced. The group size is small enough to foster an intimate experience but large enough to keep the energy lively. Reviewers loved the fast boat for the thrill but appreciated the efficient stops that balanced adventure with enough time to relax.

There's plenty more to explore in Zadar

Authentic Experiences That Make This Tour Special

What sets this experience apart?

Authentic marine encounters—reviewers frequently mention snorkeling among colorful fish and coral, and the chance to see dolphins or tunas adds a magical touch. The guides’ local knowledge enriches the trip, providing insights into each site’s geology and history.

The scenery is another standout feature. The cliffs of Mana Island, the turquoise waters of Sakarun, and the underwater cave of Golubinka all contribute to a picture-perfect day that feels like an escape from the everyday.

The pace might be considered brisk for some, but many reviewers felt it was the right balance to see as much as possible. As one guest put it, “We could visit so many places as the boat could move fast enough to get us from one highlight to the next,” making it perfect for travelers with a sense of adventure and limited time.

Value for money is notable, especially considering the included snorkeling gear, drinks, and guided tips. While there’s an extra charge (~30 EUR) for park and berthing fees, the overall experience offers great bang for your buck.

The Real Deal: Pros and Cons

Pros:

Varied stops ensure a mixture of action, relaxation, and sightseeing
Knowledgeable guides who are friendly and helpful
Exciting speedboat ride that’s safe and thrilling
Excellent snorkeling spots with clear waters and marine life
Inclusion of drinks and snorkeling gear adds value
Small group size fosters a more personalized experience

Cons:

The fast pace may not suit travelers looking for a slow, cultural exploration
Additional fees for park entry and berthing can add to the cost
Not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or non-swimmers due to safety considerations
The brief stops mean limited time at each site, so patience is key

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who love a mix of sightseeing and water activities. If you’re excited by speedboat rides, snorkeling, and seeing multiple islands in one day, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially good for those wanting to experience nature, marine life, and the spectacular coastline of Croatia without the hassle of arranging individual boat trips.

However, if you prefer slow-paced, cultural, or historical tours, or if you’re traveling with very young children or non-swimmers, you might find this trip a bit too brisk and active.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under 10 years due to safety considerations and the quick pace of the boat ride.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes water, prosecco, and gin tonic, which are served during the trip, adding a touch of leisure to the adventure.

What are the main sites visited?
Highlights include the shipwreck of “Michelle,” Lojena Beach, Golubinka cave, Sakarun Beach, and Mana Island, with stops for snorkeling and swimming.

How much does the additional park fee cost?
You should budget around 30 EUR per person in cash for marine protected area, berthing fees, and national park entry.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for extra expenses.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour from Zadar offers an energetic, scenic, and fun-filled way to experience Croatia’s stunning islands and marine environments. With knowledgeable guides, well-chosen stops, and a lively boat ride, it’s a great choice for those seeking adventure and natural beauty all in one day.

Ideal for active travelers, boat lovers, and anyone eager to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. While it’s not suited for relaxed, cultural-focused visits or very young children, the trip provides a memorable taste of the Croatian archipelago’s best features.

If you’re ready for a lively, picture-perfect day exploring Croatia’s coast, this tour could be just what you need to elevate your trip.