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

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is a dream for many travelers, and this full-day speedboat tour from Zadar offers a chance to see its most captivating sights in one go. With a reputation for being both well-organized and packed with highlights, it’s a popular choice for those eager for adventure, natural beauty, and a taste of local marine life.

We’re especially fond of how this tour combines exhilarating speedboat rides with slow, scenic moments—giving you a true sense of the area’s diverse beauty. The snorkeling at the shipwreck of “Michelle” and the chance to relax on the Sakarun Beach are definite highlights.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour isn’t suited for everyone. It’s a fast-paced, somewhat physically active experience. If you prefer quiet, cultural, or leisurely trips, this might not be the best fit. But for those who love a good boat ride, stunning scenery, and a day packed with activity, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s best suited for travelers aged 10 and up, comfortable in water, and looking for a lively, fun day out.

Key Points

• Fast-paced adventure with a focus on sightseeing and snorkeling.
• Includes multiple stops — shipwreck, caves, beaches, and Kornati National Park.
• Skipper and crew provide helpful guidance, making the experience more enriching.
• Good value for the price considering the length, variety, and inclusions.
• Not suitable for young children, pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with mobility issues.
• Bring cash, sun protection, swimwear, and a sense of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of What You Can Expect

This tour, operated by Montana Line d.o.o., is a carefully curated day of exploring some of Croatia’s most scenic marine and island spots. It’s designed for folks who love the water, enjoy snorkeling, and want a taste of island life—all delivered in a lively, speedy format.

Starting in Zadar’s Arbiana Cruises, you’ll meet your skipper and gather a group that’s usually lively and eager. From there, the boat kicks off with a roughly 50-minute cruise along the coast, giving you a panoramic view of the Dalmatian coastline and the islands beyond. This isn’t about million-dollar yachts; it’s a sturdy, comfortable RIB speedboat built for fun and efficiency, usually filled with cheerful travelers ready for adventure.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The First Stop: The Shipwreck of “Michelle”

One of the most memorable moments is snorkeling at the “Michelle”, an Italian cargo ship wreck that has become a thriving home for marine life. The reviews rave about this stop—many mention how colorful the fish are and how interesting it is to swim around the wreck. “We saw some dolphins on the way,” one traveler noted, highlighting the chances of unexpected wildlife sightings. The wreck offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history and is a perfect spot for underwater photography.

Lagnii Cliffs and Dugi Otok

Next, you’ll cruise toward the Lagnii cliffs on Dugi Otok, near the Veli Rat lighthouse. This area is perfect for quick sightseeing, with impressive cliffs and spectacular views. It’s a good place to stretch your legs and take photos of the rugged coastline.

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Sakarun Beach

The Sakarun Beach stop is a favorite among travelers. Known for its soft white sand and shallow, calm waters, it’s ideal for swimming and relaxing. Many reviewers mention how nice it is to just float in the water, soaking up the sun and taking in the scenic surroundings. This stop provides a good balance of activity and downtime—some sit in the sand, others take in the views.

Golubinka Cave

A unique highlight is the Golubinka cave, a natural sea cave with a pebble beach. Snorkeling through the cave is often described as a memorable experience—blue waters, interesting formations, and the chance to see marine life in a more confined, dramatic setting. Reviewers note the cave’s beauty, with one mentioning “snorkeling through the underwater cave reveals the stunning azure hues of the sea.”

Lojena Beach & Kornati National Park

The tour takes you to Lojena Beach, part of Kornati National Park, famous for its pristine waters and scenic beauty. Here, you’ll have time for swimming and exploring the marine environment, which many describe as a peaceful, protected haven. The park’s clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, especially if you’re looking to spot fish and coral.

Vrulje Bay and Lunch Break

The boat then heads toward Vrulje bay, where you’ll have free time to land ashore and purchase a seaside lunch. The opportunity to grab local food in a sheltered setting adds a relaxing element to the busy day. Travelers often enjoy the fresh seafood and the laid-back atmosphere.

Mana Island & Final Stops

The last part of the journey takes you past Mana Island, famous for its cliffs and historical significance, before returning to Zadar. You’ll also get a few more swimming and snorkeling opportunities at Levrnaka Island, with reviews praising the variety of spots for marine life and the scenic beauty of these islands.

Why This Tour Works

The mix of high-speed cruising, snorkeling, relaxations, and sightseeing makes this tour stand out. Travelers often comment on the friendly, knowledgeable guides—some mention their skipper Dino was especially helpful and engaging. The boat’s speed adds an adrenaline rush, especially for those who love a sense of adventure, but it’s manageable with a well-paced itinerary.

The value for money is notable: at $148 per person, the tour covers a full nine hours of activity, multiple swimming and snorkeling stops, and all gear and water are included. The only additional expense is the €30 national park fee and marine protected area fees, payable in cash, which is fair considering the scope of the trip.

Authentic Marine Encounters

Many reviews highlight how this trip offers more than just a boat ride; it’s an opportunity to see local marine life and explore underwater sites. Snorkeling at the shipwreck was particularly praised, with many travelers remarking on the variety of fish and coral they encountered.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights

Beyond nature, the tour also offers glimpses into Croatian maritime life—cliffs, caves, and islands with stories of their own. For instance, Mana Island’s cliffs and history add a layer of intrigue, making this more than just a beach-hopping trip.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Timing-wise, the tour lasts about 9 hours, beginning in the morning, with some flexibility depending on the day. You’ll want to wear swimwear and bring essentials like sun protection, a towel, cash, and a hat. The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with mobility issues, mainly due to the physical demands of swimming and the speedboat ride.

Getting to the meeting point is straightforward—parking is available at Ravnice 2, Zadar, just 10 minutes from Arbiana Cruises. The tour includes snorkeling gear, water, and insurance, making it a hassle-free experience. Remember to bring cash for the national park fee and any souvenirs or snacks.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

We’ve gathered insights from multiple reviews that echo the general sentiment: people loved the friendly guides, the scenic spots, and the value for money. One reviewer said, “The tour was well organized, the guide was very friendly, and the trip was so beautiful we will definitely recommend.” Others appreciated the speedy boat and the sense of adventure, with comments like, “The boat itself is already quite fun because it’s so fast,” and “all the stops were so beautiful.”

The snorkeling at the shipwreck and cave consistently gets rave reviews—people are amazed by the variety of fish and the clarity of the water. Many also mention how the tour is a perfect mix of activity and relaxation, with enough free time to enjoy each spot.

The Sum Up: Who Should Take This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves adventure, snorkeling, and stunning scenery, this trip is a solid pick. It offers a lively, action-packed day that highlights the best of Croatia’s coastal waters and islands. The knowledgeable guides and the well-organized itinerary mean you can relax and trust that you’re seeing top sights without feeling rushed.

This tour is best suited for active travelers, water lovers, and those comfortable with boat rides and snorkeling. It’s a particularly good choice if you want a memorable, photo-worthy experience and don’t mind a fast-paced schedule. Families with older children, couples, and singles looking for a lively day out will find plenty to love here.

However, if you prefer quiet, cultural strolls or have mobility concerns, this may not match your travel style. It’s also not suitable for pregnant women or non-swimmers, though the scenery and marine life alone will delight many.

This tour offers excellent value, a well-rounded experience, and plenty of opportunities to connect with Croatia’s natural beauty. It’s a lively adventure that leaves travelers with fantastic stories—and a tan.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is generally suitable for children over 10 years old. It involves swimming, snorkeling, and fast boat rides, which may not be appropriate for younger children or very sensitive travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, cash (for entry fees and optional purchases), and beachwear. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer.

How long is the boat ride?
The entire tour lasts about 9 hours, including cruising, stopovers, swimming, and free time. The cruising sections vary from 30 to 50 minutes, giving you scenic views of the coast and islands.

Are meals included?
Lunch isn’t included in the tour fee but is available for purchase at Vrulje bay. Many travelers enjoy local seafood and other Croatian specialties there.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the tour, making it easy to explore the wreck, caves, and reefs without extra hassle.

What are the main highlights?
Expect snorkeling at the “Michelle” shipwreck, relaxing at Sakarun Beach, exploring Golubinka Cave, and sightseeing at Kornati National Park. Each stop offers unique scenery and marine life.

How much does the national park fee cost?
The fee for the marine protected area and national park entry is €30 per person, payable in cash.

This full-day adventure from Zadar promises a lively mix of scenery, marine exploration, and fun—all in the company of friendly guides and fellow travelers. For those craving a taste of Croatia’s wild side, it’s a day well spent.

You can check availability for your dates here: