8 Best Kayak And Canoe Tours In Zadar

Zadar’s kayak and canoe scene delivers memorable adventures along Croatia’s dramatic coast. The standout Zrmanja River tour showcases pristine waterfalls and limestone cliffs – perfect for nature lovers. For history buffs, the practical 3-hour coastal paddle past Zadar’s Roman ruins and medieval churches offers the best bang for your buck. Our favorite is the Dugi Otok half-day excursion, combining easy paddling with snorkeling and cliff jumping – it’s a great value and suits most fitness levels. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the full-day paddleboard option to Veli Rat lighthouse and Sali village, offering similar views at a lower price point. Let’s explore the top water tours worth your time and money.

Key Points

• The Zrmanja Canoe Safari offers a 4-hour guided tour through the Zrmanja River, allowing visitors to paddle to the Krupa waterfalls.
• The 3-hour Zadar Kayak Tour provides a water-level exploration of the city’s coastline, showcasing historic landmarks and natural beauty.
• The Dugi Otok Kayak Adventure offers a half-day excursion to the island’s pebble bay, with opportunities for snorkeling and cliff jumping.
• The Dugi Otok Guided Paddle Board Tour is an 11-hour experience that includes a ferry ride, paddleboarding, and visits to Veli Rat lighthouse and Sakarun Beach.
• The Full-Day Tour in Dugi Otok with Stand-Up Paddle Experience features unique activities like riding through a submarine military tunnel and playing the traditional balote game.

Half-Day Guided Zrmanja Canoe Safari

Embarking on the Half-Day Guided Zrmanja Canoe Safari, visitors can enjoy the captivating natural beauty of Croatia’s Zrmanja River.

This 4-hour tour takes guests on a canoe safari through stunning Croatian landscapes, with the highlight being a paddle to the breathtaking Krupa waterfalls.

Travelers will enjoy crystal-clear waters and a snack break in a local village, all while receiving personalized attention from small group sizes and local, multilingual guides.

With rave reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Zadar, with convenient transfers available from the city.

Prices start at $58.81 per person, making it an affordable way to explore the region’s natural wonders.

Read our full review: Half-Day Guided Zrmanja Canoe Safari Review
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Zadar: 3–Hour Kayak Tour

For those seeking a more leisurely way to explore Zadar’s coastal wonders, the 3-Hour Kayak Tour offers a captivating experience.

Participants paddle along the stunning Adriatic shoreline, taking in the city’s historic landmarks and natural beauty from a unique water-level perspective. The tour guides lead small groups through the calm, sheltered waters, pointing out hidden coves, sea caves, and local wildlife.

Paddlers can expect to cover approximately 4-5 kilometers during the excursion, with ample time to rest, snap photos, and simply admire the breathtaking scenery.

Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-time paddler, this tour provides a serene and immersive way to discover Zadar’s enchanting coastal landscape.

Read our full review: Zadar: 3–Hour Kayak Tour Review
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Dugi Otok – Half Day Kayak Adventure

Nestled within the stunning Zadar archipelago, the Dugi Otok – Half Day Kayak Adventure offers travelers a captivating opportunity to explore the longest island in the region.

With clear waters, hidden coves, and unique sea caves, this half-day tour promises an unforgettable experience. Accompanied by an ACA certified guide, participants can kayak to the Veli Žal pebble bay, snorkel to see underwater sights, and even try cliff jumping.

Praised for its safety and personal attention, the tour accommodates all skill levels, making it suitable for both amateurs and experienced adventurers.

Travelers can also expect scenic coastal landscapes, wildlife, and the convenience of included ferry tickets and snacks.

Read our full review: Dugi Otok – Half Day Kayak Adventure Review
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From Zadar: Full Day Dugi Otok Guided Paddle Board Tour

From the port of Zadar, travelers can embark on an enthralling full-day paddleboarding adventure to the captivating Dugi Otok island.

The 11-hour tour, limited to 8 participants, departs for the 1.5-hour ferry ride to Dragove. Guests will then spend 2 hours paddleboarding, explore the Veli Rat lighthouse, and relax at the beautiful Sakarun Beach.

The tour also includes a guided visit to the town of Brbinj before the return ferry ride. Throughout the day, participants can enjoy a glass of local wine or juice.

This tour is unsuitable for individuals over 264 lbs, non-swimmers, and those with mobility issues or under 10 years old.

Read our full review: From Zadar: Full Day Dugi Otok Guided Paddle Board Tour Review
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Full-Day Tour in Dugi Otok With Stand-Up Paddle Experience

Setting out on a full-day tour of Dugi Otok, travelers can look forward to a captivating stand-up paddle experience that showcases the island’s natural wonders.

Capped at eight participants, the tour provides an intimate setting as visitors explore the Adriatic’s highest lighthouse and the fishing village of Sali.

Highlights include riding through a submarine military tunnel on a stand-up paddleboard and playing bocce ball on an outdoor court.

Travelers will enjoy complimentary drinks during a traditional balote game and a certified local guide who shares insights into the region’s history and culture.

With ferry and speedboat tickets included, as well as a full suite of stand-up paddle gear, this tour offers a well-rounded and immersive experience.

Read our full review: Full-Day Tour in Dugi Otok With Stand-Up Paddle Experience Review
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From Zadar: Full-Day Kayaking Tour in Dugi Otok

Travelers seeking to explore the stunning landscapes of Dugi Otok can embark on a full-day kayaking tour from the coastal city of Zadar.

The tour takes guests on a journey through the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island, offering breathtaking views of its rugged cliffs, secluded bays, and hidden caves.

During the excursion, you will have the opportunity to learn basic kayaking techniques and enjoy a stop for a swim in the refreshing Adriatic Sea.

With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides a personalized experience and the chance to discover the natural beauty of this picturesque Croatian island.

Read our full review: From Zadar: Full-Day Kayaking Tour in Dugi Otok Review
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From Zadar: Dugi Otok Half-Day Kayak Adventure

Visitors can embark on a half-day kayak adventure to explore the stunning Dugi Otok island from the coastal city of Zadar.

This tour offers the chance to paddle through the crystal-clear waters and discover the island’s rugged coastline and hidden coves. During the expedition, you will witness the island’s diverse marine life and have the opportunity to stop for a swim in the refreshing Adriatic Sea.

The guided tour ensures a safe and informative experience, with the knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the local environment and history.

This half-day adventure provides an excellent way to take in the natural beauty of the Zadar archipelago.

Read our full review: From Zadar: Dugi Otok Half-Day Kayak Adventure Review
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Zadar: River Zrmanja Guided Kayak Safari & Waterfalls

Paddlers seeking a tranquil escape from Zadar’s city hustle can embark on the Zadar: River Zrmanja Guided Kayak Safari & Waterfalls.

This 5-hour excursion costs $68.24 per person and features a scenic paddle along the Zrmanja River, culminating in a stop at the Visoki buk waterfall.

Led by experienced guides, the tour is suitable for all ages and includes necessary equipment, insurance, and park admission.

After approximately 4 hours of paddling, guests can enjoy free time for swimming before returning to the finish point.

With its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural scenery, this kayak safari offers a refreshing respite from the urban environment.

Read our full review: Zadar: River Zrmanja Guided Kayak Safari & Waterfalls Review
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Sum Up

Zadar offers a variety of kayak and canoe tours that allow visitors to explore the stunning natural landscapes in the surrounding areas. From the Zrmanja River to the islands of Dugi Otok, these tours provide a chance to experience the region’s beauty up close. Whether it’s a half-day adventure or a full-day excursion, there are options to suit different interests and skill levels.