Zadar: Boat Tour with Unlimited Wine & 3 Stops

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Zadar, this boat tour promises a charming blend of scenic beauty, relaxed swimming, and Croatian hospitality. While we haven’t personally boarded this vessel, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what you can expect. It’s a tour that appeals to those who love picturesque coastlines, simple pleasures like good wine, and leisurely stops in small, inviting towns.

Three things we genuinely like about this experience are the chance to enjoy stunning panoramic views from a vintage boat, the generous supply of unlimited Croatian wine, and the variety of stops—each offering a mix of swimming, exploring, and local snacks.

However, one consideration is that the tour is only four hours long—that might leave some travelers wishing for a bit more time to relax or explore. Still, if you’re after a laid-back, scenic escape from city streets, this cruise fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy social, informal experiences and want to see the coastline with a glass of wine in hand.

Key Points

• Vintage Charm: The boat is over 120 years old, offering a nostalgic and authentic sailing experience.
• Spectacular Views: Expect panoramic vistas of Zadar’s coastline, rocky hills, and turquoise waters.
• Unlimited Wine & Refreshments: Enjoy white wine, still water, and juices throughout the trip.
• Varied Stops: Three carefully chosen locations for swimming, exploring local villages, and sampling regional snacks.
• Family & Solo Friendly: Suitable for most, except those with mobility impairments.
• Weather-Dependent Stops: Some stops, like Hidden Bay, may depend on weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What This Tour Is All About

Imagine a smooth sail along the Croatian coast aboard a beautifully maintained, 120-year-old wooden vessel. The experience begins at the Gostilje Boat Excursions pier, where the crew welcomes you with a warm Croatian smile and a glass of the welcome refreshment. From there, the real magic happens: views unfold as you glide past rocky hills, turquoise waters, and charming seaside villages.

The boat itself is spacious enough to keep everyone comfortable, and the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly—perfect for making new friends or simply soaking up the surroundings in peace. This is not a high-energy party boat; it’s more about savoring the moment, enjoying good wine, and appreciating the natural beauty around you.

The Itinerary: How the Day Unfolds

Stop 1: Kukljica (45 minutes)

The first stop is Kukljica, a small coastal village renowned for its inviting beach and clear waters. Here, you get roughly 45 minutes to jump into the sea for a refreshing swim or explore the shoreline. Reviewers highlight that the water here is particularly clean and inviting—“swimming off the boat at one stop and we also swam at the third one,” says Claire.

This stop offers a quick taste of the local vibe, with some enjoying ice cream and coffee they picked up at the nearby snack bar. It’s a good spot to stretch your legs and take photos of the rocky coast and boats bobbing in the bay.

Stop 2: Hidden Bay (45 minutes)

Known as a special spot, Hidden Bay’s weather-dependent anchoring means you might find yourself in a peaceful, less crowded cove. Here, you can snorkel, swim, or just lounge on the boat. Several reviews such as Sarah and Eva suggest that this stop’s highlight is the crystal-clear water perfect for jumping in and cooling off.

Some travelers note that the captain might decide not to drop the anchor if weather isn’t ideal, meaning you might spend more time at the other stops instead. Still, most agree that the bay’s beauty makes the effort worthwhile.

More Great Tours Nearby

Stop 3: Kali (45 minutes)

The charming fishing village of Kali is the last major stop. Here, you’ll find a lovely beach, some free time to walk around, and the chance to enjoy regional snacks—think Croatian seafood grilled delicacies at the well-known “Srdela Snack” bar. Reviewers rave about sampling the regional dishes at reasonable prices, and many mention Kali’s picturesque setting as a perfect backdrop for photos.

This stop often feels like the true heart of local life, with stunning views, a relaxed vibe, and opportunities for swimming or just relaxing on the sand.

The Return Journey & Overall Experience

After Kali, the boat heads back to Zadar, with the crew keeping the drinks flowing and the conversation lively. The final cruise segment offers more scenic views and a chance to reflect on the day. Many guests mention that the unlimited wine and friendly atmosphere make the entire trip feel like a floating Croatian party—in a good way.

The tour concludes back at the starting point after roughly four hours. Guests typically leave feeling like they’ve sampled a slice of local life, enjoyed beautiful scenery, and made some new friends—all while sipping good Croatian wine.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Vintage Charm and Scenic Cruising

Travelers consistently mention the historic nature of the boat and the beautiful coastlines. The boat’s age (over 120 years) adds character and a sense of authenticity that modern boats often lack. Expect plenty of space, stability, and a nostalgic vibe that enriches the whole experience.

Quality and Quantity of Wine

The unlimited white wine is a highlight, allowing guests to relax and socialize without worry. Reviewers mention that the wine is good quality, which is a pleasant surprise at this price point, making the trip feel even more worth it.

Well-Selected, Relaxed Stops

Each location offers something different—whether a quick swim, exploring a quaint village, or enjoying local snacks. The stops are not overly touristy but provide just enough time for a quick adventure or a peaceful break.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Duration and Starting Times

The tour lasts about four hours, with starting times varying based on availability. Check ahead to find the most suitable slot for your schedule. The trip generally includes two longer stops (about 45 minutes each) and some shorter cruising segments.

Pricing and What’s Included

The cost provides excellent value considering the heritage boat, unlimited wine, water, juices, and snorkeling gear. There are additional dock fees (€10 per adult, €5 per child), payable in cash, which is common for many Croatian tours.

Meeting Point & Accessibility

Meet at the pier off Obala Kralja Petra Kreimira IV street, marked by a small white lighthouse. The activity isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the nature of the vessel and walking involved to the stops.

Weather and Cancellation

The tour is weather-dependent, especially for the Hidden Bay stop. Rescheduling may occur if weather conditions are poor. Also, if there aren’t enough guests, the tour might be canceled, but the provider will contact you to arrange alternative plans.

What to Bring

Don’t forget a sun hat, swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for the dock fees. The crew recommends water shoes for walking to some swimming spots, as the beaches are pebbly.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Guests rave about the crew’s friendliness and professionalism. “The staff on board were fabulous and completely made the trip,” reports Sara. Many mention the knowledgeable guides and friendly atmosphere—a common theme is that strangers turn into friends by the end of the trip.

Swimming in crystal-clear waters, jumping off the boat, and enjoying good Croatian seafood snacks in Kali are all highlighted as memorable moments. Comments like “plenty of wine and friendly crew that gave clear times of departure and information about the stops” show how well-organized and enjoyable the experience is.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a laid-back day on the water, this cruise offers a perfect balance of scenic beauty, casual fun, and cultural insight. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic Croatian experience without the intense itinerary.

It suits those who appreciate historic vessels, good local wine, and small-town charm. If you’re a fan of swimming and spending time in nature, the stops in Kukljica, Hidden Bay, and Kali will not disappoint.

The Sum Up

This boat tour in Zadar delivers a memorable experience rooted in relaxation, scenic splendor, and Croatian hospitality. The combination of a vintage vessel, unlimited wine, and well-chosen stops makes it an excellent value for anyone wanting to enjoy the coast without rushing or overloading their day.

While only four hours, the tour packs in enough beauty, fun, and flavor to feel like a full day’s escape. The knowledgeable crew, stunning views, and regional snacks make this outing a highlight for many. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a social, informal atmosphere and want to see the coastline from a different perspective.

If you’re in Zadar and looking for a gentle, scenic adventure that combines swimming, sightseeing, and sipping Croatian wines, this tour ticks all those boxes—and then some.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour?

The tour includes a historic wooden boat, unlimited white wine, still water, juices, a guide, and snorkeling gear.

• How long is the tour?

The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, with various stops and cruising segments.

• Are there any additional costs?

Yes, docking fees (€10 per adult, €5 per child) are payable in cash at the stops.

• Where do I meet the tour?

At the pier off Obala Kralja Petra Kreimira IV street, near the small white lighthouse.

• Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?

It’s suitable for most, but not recommended for people with mobility impairments due to the vessel and walking involved.

• What should I bring?

Sun hat, swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for the docking fees. Water shoes are recommended for some swimming spots.

• What happens if the weather is bad?

The tour might be rescheduled or canceled, especially if the Hidden Bay stop is affected. The provider will inform guests ahead of time.

This Zadar boat tour offers a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy Croatia’s coastline with excellent value and authentic charm. Whether you’re seeking a social day with friends or a peaceful escape into nature, it’s a memorable way to experience the Dalmatian coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: