Discovering Dugi Island and Saharun Beach: A Practical Guide
Our review of the Zadar: Saharun Beach and Dugi Island Boat Tour offers a detailed look at a popular day trip that promises a mix of stunning scenery, watersports, and cultural stops. Designed for travelers who want to escape the city and venture into Croatia’s tranquil islands, this tour combines comfort, adventure, and authentic Mediterranean charm.
What we particularly appreciate about this experience are two key aspects: its focus on natural beauty—from crystal-clear waters to pine-shaded coves—and the knowledgeable, friendly guides who keep the trip lively and informative. The included lunch at a local family restaurant also adds a warm, authentic touch.
A potential consideration? This tour involves a fair amount of time on a boat, so it might not be ideal for travelers prone to seasickness or those with limited mobility. Still, for most, it offers a well-balanced mix of relaxing swimming, exploration, and sightseeing.
Overall, it’s best suited for those who love water activities, scenic vistas, and discovering less-trodden parts of Croatia’s islands. If your idea of a perfect day includes sun, sea, and a taste of local life, this trip could be just right.
Key Points
- Beautiful Beaches: Sakarun Beach is renowned for its white sands and turquoise water, offering excellent swimming and relaxing opportunities.
- Authentic Experiences: Visit a 2,000-year-old oil mill and explore military tunnels, adding a touch of history to your trip.
- Snorkeling & Water Activities: Snorkel over a sunken ship and swim in natural coves, making the most of Croatia’s clear waters.
- Scenic Views: Climb to the Veli Rat Lighthouse for panoramic shots and enjoy breathtaking island vistas.
- Taste of Local Cuisine: A hearty lunch in Bozava features traditional Croatian fare, with options for everyone.
- Expert Guides & Safety: Skippers are experienced and attentive, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on large, well-equipped boats.
The Itinerary in Detail
This tour kicks off from the central meeting point in Zadar, Obala kneza Branimira 20A, making it easy to find and close to the city’s core attractions. The first stop is Saharun Beach, one of Croatia’s most celebrated beaches, famed for its white sands and crystal waters. With about 105 minutes of free time, you’ll have ample opportunity to swim, sunbathe, or simply soak in the scenery.
Much of the appeal here is in the scenery—the shallow, calm waters gently lap at the shore, perfect for relaxing or taking photos. The reviews highlight just how stunning this beach truly is, with one traveler noting it was “even more beautiful than the pictures.” Be prepared for a lively scene if you visit during peak season, but early or late in the day, it tends to be quieter.
Next, the tour heads to the Veli Rat Lighthouse, a highlight for panoramic views. With a 45-minute stop, you can walk up, take photos, and enjoy the sweeping sea vistas. The lighthouse itself is “the most beautiful on the Adriatic,” according to guides and guests alike, offering a fantastic backdrop for souvenir snapshots.
Then, it’s time for lunch in the village of Bozava, where a family restaurant serves a delicious, hearty meal—options include beef, fish, or vegetarian dishes. Tourists praise the lunch as a highlight, with reviews mentioning the beautiful location and fresh, local ingredients. It’s a nice break to enjoy Croatian hospitality and recharge for the afternoon.
Post-lunch, the adventure shifts to Dugi Otok, where you’ll visit a natural cove shaded by pine trees—a perfect spot for a swim and relaxation. The waters here are clear, and the environment peaceful, making it a favorite among guests. You might also explore the old oil mill, over 2000 years old, adding a unique historical dimension to your day.
The final stop is the military tunnel, a site that unveils a different side of the island’s history. Guests report that the guides share insightful stories, making the visit both educational and intriguing. After exploring these sites, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to swim and unwind in the beautiful surroundings.
Throughout the tour, skippers and guides are praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and extensive local knowledge. Tours are conducted on large speedboats with all necessary safety equipment, making the journey both comfortable and secure.
The return to Zadar is scheduled for around 5:30 PM, giving you a full day of adventure without feeling rushed. The overall length of 8 hours makes it a substantial but manageable daytrip.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Bozava
What’s Included and What’s Not
For $79 per person, the package covers much of what makes the trip memorable. You’ll get snorkeling masks, a generous lunch, and visits to Saharun beach, the sunken ship, and the military tunnel. The boat and safety equipment are also included, ensuring peace of mind.
However, extras like drinks are not included, and there is a docking fee of €10-€30 (for adults and children), which is a standard practice for such excursions. The tour does not offer hotel pickup, so travelers should meet at the designated starting point.
The flexibility to reserve and pay later is convenient, and the full refund policy if cancellations occur more than 24 hours in advance adds reassurance.
Real-Life Guest Perspectives
Looking at the reviews, the common thread is high satisfaction. Travelers consistently mention knowledgeable guides who provide engaging commentary and keep the group entertained. One reviewer called the skipper “Johnny,” a “great guide,” emphasizing how informative and friendly he was.
Guests also rave about the stunning scenery and the value for money. For roughly $79, you get a full day filled with swimming, sightseeing, and authentic Croatian cuisine. Several reviews mention how the trip was “worth every euro,” with one guest saying it was a “super relaxing day” that felt both fun and educational.
A few smaller critiques mention that accessibility might be challenging for older or less mobile travelers, and a longer stop at certain sites or a drink or two on the boat could enhance the experience. But overall, the tour scores highly for beautiful beaches, scenic viewpoints, and friendly guides.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is best suited for water lovers who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the sea. It’s also perfect for those craving an authentic taste of Croatian island life, away from crowded city beaches. The mix of scenic spots, historical sites, and local cuisine offers a well-rounded experience that caters to diverse interests.
Travelers looking for a comfortable, well-organized day with knowledgeable guides will find this trip rewarding. It offers a good balance of adventure and relaxation and a chance to see parts of Dugi Island that are hard to reach independently.
If you’re interested in stunning beaches, panoramic views, and local culture, this tour provides excellent value, especially considering the included lunch and snorkeling gear. Just be prepared for a full day on the water, and pack your essentials—hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and camera—to capture the memories.
More Great Tours NearbyFAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
No, travelers need to meet at the starting point at Obala kneza Branimira 20A.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. It’s advisable to be prepared for sun exposure and swimming.
Are dietary options available for lunch?
Yes, the lunch menu includes options for meat, fish, or vegetarian preferences, served at a family-run restaurant.
How long is the free time at Saharun Beach?
You’ll have about 105 minutes to relax, swim, or explore on your own.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included, so you can explore beneath the surface around the sunken ship.
What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting in the morning and returning around 5:30 PM, giving you a full yet manageable day.
In all, this boat trip from Zadar offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, history, and relaxed watersports—ideal for travelers eager to explore Croatia’s lesser-known islands with a knowledgeable guide and good value for the price.
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