4 Jewels of Zadar, Dugi otok, sunken ship, tunnel - Half day

This tour of the 4 Jewels of Zadar promises a brisk but memorable escape into Croatia’s Dalmatian islands. Perfect for those with a limited schedule but a love for scenic boat rides, historical sites, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. We’re talking about a half-day adventure that not only promises stunning vistas but also includes some fascinating stops that will appeal to both history buffs and beach lovers alike.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on authentic and diverse experiences — from snorkeling over sunken ships to exploring Cold War military tunnels. Plus, the fact that it’s conducted on a modern, safe speedboat adds a layer of comfort and security.

One consideration is that the itinerary can sometimes shift due to weather conditions, which might mean missing out on certain stops like the sunken ship or adjusting the order of visits. But with safety always the priority, most travelers will find that flexibility a small price to pay for a safer, more enjoyable experience.

This trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate small-group adventures, want a good mix of nature, history, and leisure, and prefer a balanced pace with enough time to swim and explore without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Short but Sweet: A 4.5-hour tour perfect for fitting into a busy schedule.
Diverse Stops: Combines snorkeling, historical sites, and scenic island villages.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable skipper and guide enhance the experience with insights and safety.
Flexible Itinerary: Adjustments are possible based on weather, ensuring safety and comfort.
All-Inclusive: Snorkeling equipment, safety gear, insurance, and fuel are covered.
Great Value: Provides a well-rounded experience at a reasonable price point for what’s included.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Zadar.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

From the moment you meet your skipper in a white T-shirt with the tour inscription, you’ll sense this is a well-organized outing. The speedboat itself is modern and equipped with safety gear, a fridge for drinks, and a Bluetooth speaker for some tunes. The trip lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, giving plenty of time for multiple stops without feeling overly rushed.

Group sizes tend to be small, making it a more personalized experience. You’ll be transported swiftly across the water, which is one of the main pleasures—fast enough to get you to each location quickly but not so bumpy that it spoils the fun.

Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Ugljan Island and Muline Village

The journey kicks off with a visit to Ugljan, an island known for its pine forests and peaceful bays. The stop at Muline village is particularly charming; a traditional Dalmatian village where you can stroll, take photos, or relax over a coffee. The nearby Juna Luka beach offers great swimming opportunities, with ideal spots for snorkeling thanks to the clear waters and rocky formations.

One reviewer noted, “We had at least an hour and a half here, perfect for swimming and relaxing,” highlighting the generous time allocated. The scenery here is a hit with travelers, especially those who love nature and quiet spots.

Next: Dugi Otok and Military Tunnels

A highlight is the visit to Dugi Otok, home to Cold War military tunnels built during Yugoslavia’s communist era. This stop appeals to history buffs curious about Croatia’s more recent past, and the tunnels offer a cool, shaded break from the sun. According to travelers, “the tunnels were very interesting,” and they appreciated the chance to learn about the area’s strategic past.

Molat and Sabua Bay or Bozava Village

The trip continues to Molat Island, with a stop at Uvala Sabua, a peaceful bay with rocky and sandy areas perfect for snorkeling or relaxing by the water. Alternatively, if weather conditions aren’t ideal, the guide might replace this with a visit to Bozava on Dugi Otok, which features wild coves and beautiful beaches. Several reviews mentioned the beauty of these spots, with one guest noting, “Bozava hides its beauty in both the village and its coves—well worth the visit.”

Sunken Ship Snorkeling

The final and most exciting stop is a snorkel over a sunken merchant ship. This is where you’ll see the marine flora and fauna that have settled over the years, adding a sense of mystery and adventure. Some travelers noted that if conditions aren’t right, the sunken ship might be skipped for safety reasons, but even then, the other stops and scenery make this a worthwhile trip.

One guest remarked, “The sunken ship was fascinating, with lots of marine life, and our skipper told us some secret stories about it.”

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Food, Drinks, and Practical Tips

While lunch isn’t included, there are bars at some stops, and it’s advisable to bring snacks or food if you’re hungry. The tour includes snorkeling equipment, safety gear, insurance, and fuel—meaning you pay a fair price for a comprehensive experience.

A tip from travelers—remember to bring cash for the docking fee, which isn’t payable by card. One reviewer shared, “Make sure you have cash, as the fee isn’t accepted by card, but the staff was understanding and helpful.”

Here's some more things to do in Zadar

Weather and Flexibility

Weather can influence the itinerary. Some reviews mention choppy seas or cloudy days, which can impact the visibility at the snorkeling sites or cause a change in plans. Rest assured, the guide will prioritize safety and adjust accordingly, but it’s good to be flexible with your expectations.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Multiple reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides, highlighting their friendliness, humor, and insights. “Our guide was super, no rushing, and gave great tips for swimming spots,” says one. Others appreciated the beautiful views, especially during the sunset on the ride back, making for a scenic and relaxing end to the trip.

The value for money is consistently praised—guests feel they get a lot of quality experiences for a reasonable cost, especially considering the inclusions of snorkeling gear and insurance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a compact yet diverse experience—combining nature, history, and relaxation—without dedicating an entire day. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy small-group tours and personalized attention.

If you’re interested in snorkeling, exploring Cold War tunnels, and discovering hidden beaches and villages, this tour offers a good balance of all those elements.

It’s also a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy meeting like-minded adventurers and want a fun, scenic, and informative outing.

Final Thoughts

This 4 Jewels of Zadar tour strikes a nice balance between adventure and relaxation, offering enough diversity to keep everyone engaged. The combination of stunning landscapes, historical insights, and marine life makes it a compelling choice for anyone visiting the Dalmatian coast.

The tour’s value for money is clear, especially with all the included equipment and safety measures, and the flexible itinerary ensures a safe experience regardless of weather. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a small-group feel, personalized insights, and a good mix of activities.

For those who love the idea of snorkeling over a sunken ship, walking through Cold War tunnels, and relaxing on quiet beaches, this tour will deliver an authentic taste of Croatia’s scenic islands. It’s a short but sweet adventure that offers a lot in just a few hours.

FAQ

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, cash for the docking fee, snacks if you’re hungry, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone for photos.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 12 pay a reduced fee, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for families.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a speedboat, skipper/guide, snorkeling equipment, insurance, safety gear, and fuel.

Will I see the sunken ship?
Most likely, if weather conditions permit. If not, the guide will adjust the itinerary to ensure safety.

How long do stops last?
Each stop generally allows for about an hour to an hour and a half, giving plenty of time to swim, explore, or relax.

Is food available during the tour?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there are bars at some stops. It’s recommended to bring snacks.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may be modified or some stops skipped for safety, but the guide will do everything to make the trip enjoyable.

How many people usually join the tour?
It’s typically a small group, making for a more personalized experience.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
No, snorkeling equipment is provided, and the activity is suitable for most skill levels.

Final Note

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Croatia’s Dalmatian islands, blending scenic beauty, history, and marine adventure. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a short, engaging, and value-packed outing with plenty of opportunities for swimming, learning, and relaxing. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just in need of a fun day on the water, this trip deserves serious consideration.