Zadar, with its shimmering coast and easy access to the islands, is a natural playground for anyone who loves sailing. Unlike crowded tour boats, many options here let you experience the Adriatic Sea at your own pace. Whether it’s a private family outing, a full-day adventure, or a sunset cruise, Zadar offers something for every sailor. Among the standout choices is the Private Sailing Tours in Zadar Archipelago, which consistently earns top marks for its personalized experience, expert skipper, and stunning island visits. This tour, with its mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and swimming, is perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet scenic day out with family or friends.
Another favorite is the From Zadar: Full day sailing tour, which offers a longer, more flexible experience on a smaller group, great for those wanting to explore more of the islands and enjoy some leisure time on the water. For a romantic or special evening, the Elegant Sunset cruise under sails provides a luxurious, relaxed way to see Zadar’s coastline as the sun sets — with champagne in hand. Each experience presents a different flavor of sailing, ensuring you find one that matches your style and interests.
1. Private Sailing Tours in Zadar Archipelago
Taking the top spot, the Private Sailing Tours in Zadar Archipelago offers a personalized, family-led experience that earns a perfect 5.0 rating from over 100 reviews. For around $275.76, up to seven people can enjoy this 4-hour adventure, which includes sailing past landmarks like the Sea Organs and Greetings to the Sun, along with island exploration.
This tour truly stands out because it combines the beauty of the Zadar coast with the intimacy of a private boat. You’ll cruise past Ugljan Island and Ošljak, stopping to snorkel, swim, and explore the seabed, which is particularly clear and teeming with marine life. The guided narrative from a seasoned skipper adds depth, making it suitable for families, couples, or friends wanting a flexible schedule with plenty of time for activities. Reviews highlight the friendly guides, clean boats, and the chance to enjoy the Croatian sea with personalized service.
The itinerary includes a scenic 30-minute sail from Zadar to Ošljak, then two hours exploring Ugljan Island before sailing back. The air is fragrant with pine, fig, vineyard scents, and the whole experience balances relaxation with adventure.
Bottom Line: This private tour is ideal if you want a tailored, stress-free day on the water, with the option to snorkel, explore islands, and enjoy the sea breeze at your own pace.
2. From Zadar: Full day sailing tour
For those who prefer a longer, more relaxed exploration, the From Zadar: Full day sailing tour offers approximately 8 hours of sailing with a small group — usually no more than six people. At about $65.12 per person, it provides excellent value for a day packed with scenic cruising, swimming, snorkeling, and optional fishing.
This tour departs from the Zadar coastline, with the Sea Organ as an initial highlight, setting the tone for a day that combines cultural sights with open water fun. Your skipper can customize stops at Ošljak or Ugljan, depending on your interests, making it flexible for different tastes. The boat is equipped for comfort and fun, and reviews mention the skipper’s attentiveness and the chance to relax while the boat handles the route.
What makes this trip special is the opportunity to escape the crowds and enjoy the Adriatic from a boat designed for small groups. Many mention how the stops for swimming and snorkeling in crystal waters are the highlight, with some noting the excellent recommendations for local cafes and lunch spots ashore.
Bottom Line: This full-day tour suits travelers seeking a laid-back, personalized experience with plenty of time to swim, fish, or just relax under the Croatian sun.
3. From Zadar: Adriatic Sea & Island Sailing Adventure
If you’re eager to combine sailing with active exploration, the Adriatic Sea & Island Sailing Adventure is a terrific option. With a 4-hour itinerary, this tour focuses on discovering hidden coves, beaches, and marine life, making it perfect for those who want more than just a cruise.
What sets it apart is the inclusion of paddling and kayaking, allowing you to get closer to the coast and explore at your own pace. The tour begins at Obala kralja Petra Krešimira IV, then ventures to Ošljak for swimming, snorkeling, and marine viewing. After a scenic cruise, there’s a leisurely break for lunch or drinks, with optional activities like paddleboarding and sightseeing.
Customers praise the tour for its beautiful scenery and engaging guides who share insights about the coastline. The variety of activities, from snorkeling to kayaking, makes it suitable for active travelers who want a full day of fun on the water.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a mix of sailing, active water sports, and scenic exploration in a manageable timeframe.
4. Elegant Sunset cruise under sails, large yacht, full comfort
For a romantic evening or special occasion, the Elegant Sunset cruise under sails offers a luxurious, comfortable experience. At just 1.5 hours, it’s a short but memorable way to see Zadar’s coastline as the sun dips beyond the horizon.
This tour features a large yacht equipped with cabins, toilets, and a fridge, emphasizing comfort. The captain prefers to sail rather than motor, so you can enjoy the gentle sway of the boat and panoramic views of the sunset. Included is a bottle of champagne, making it a perfect intimate outing for couples or friends celebrating a special moment.
Reviews note how peaceful and beautiful the experience is, with many mentioning the quality of the boat and the relaxing atmosphere. It’s a great choice if you’re short on time but want a memorable, refined experience floating on the water.
Bottom Line: Ideal for romance or a relaxing break from sightseeing, with a focus on comfort and atmosphere during golden hour.
5. Zadar: Full-Day BYOB Sailing Tour with Water Activities
Finally, if you’re looking for a flexible, fun-filled day with plenty of water activities, the Full-Day BYOB Sailing Tour is perfect. Covering 8 hours on a 36-foot yacht, this trip offers the chance to bring your own drinks and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and even sailing the boat under the skipper’s supervision.
This tour is highly rated for its friendly skipper and the variety of activities it offers. It’s especially good for energetic travelers who want to actively participate in the sailing experience or just relax with a drink while soaking up the sun. Reviews mention the clear waters, remote beaches, and the fun of trying to steer the boat — making it suitable for anyone who wants a hands-on experience.
Because it’s BYOB, it’s also a good choice for those who prefer their own drinks and snacks. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so you might want to bring some along or plan to grab a bite ashore afterward.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want a customizable, engaging day on the water with plenty of water sports options.
How to Choose the Right Sailing Experience in Zadar
When selecting your sailing adventure, consider your budget, interest level, and how much time you want on the water. If you love privacy and personalized service, the Private Sailing Tours in Zadar Archipelago is unmatched. Those seeking a full day of exploration will appreciate the Full day sailing tour, especially if they enjoy active water sports. For a romantic evening, the Sunset cruise offers a relaxed, upscale experience.
Keep in mind that some tours focus more on cultural sights and marine exploration, while others emphasize water sports or relaxation. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and boat.
Final Thoughts
Zadar offers a variety of sailing experiences that cater to different tastes and schedules. If you’re after a private, personalized adventure, the top-rated Private Sailing Tours will deliver. For longer, flexible days with active water fun, the full-day tour is a fantastic choice. And if you want to unwind with a sunset drink, the luxurious sunset cruise is hard to beat.
Whatever your style, booking early and choosing a tour that matches your interests will ensure a memorable day on the Croatian waters. Now, get ready to enjoy the beauty of Zadar from the deck of a sailboat — a perfect way to see the coast from a new angle.