Fast boats, clear water, big scenery.

This Zadar to Dugi Otok & Kornati speedboat day is one of those trips where the geography does most of the talking: cliffs, coves, caves, and beaches that feel worlds apart from the city. I like that it’s a small-group cruise, so you spend more time enjoying the islands and less time waiting around.

Two standouts for me: snorkeling at the shipwrecked Italian cargo ship Michelle, and getting real beach time at Sakarun and Lojena. One consideration: the tour doesn’t cover mandatory marine protected area and national park costs, so you’ll want cash ready for the on-the-day fees.

Key Things I’d Put on Your Radar

• Small group, max 11 people: easier to move, less crowded feeling at the stops
• RIB speedboat rides: you cover a lot of coastline in one day without feeling rushed at the water
• Michelle shipwreck snorkeling: corals and colorful fish around the wreck
• Kornati swimming time: Lojena Beach is the kind of swim stop you remember
• Golubinka cave and pebble beach: a natural stop that changes how the water looks
• Sakarun’s sandy cove: a classic beach payoff for the whole day

Zadar’s Short Hop to Real Island Water

Zadar is a great launch point because you’re not stuck doing one small shoreline loop. Within a day, you’re out among the islands where the water color shifts fast and the coastline looks dramatic even from a moving boat.

The big reason this tour works is that it strings together different kinds of nature. You get cliff views on Dugi Otok, then shipwreck snorkeling and protected-park swims in the Kornati area, then more beach time before heading back. It’s not just one long swim stop. It’s a full “island sampler,” with the sea as the main attraction.

The boat ride itself matters too. A RIB speedboat keeps things lively, and the route jumps you quickly between the best spots. If you like seeing coastline from the water rather than from a viewpoint, you’ll feel like you’re getting your money’s worth in motion.

The RIB Ride: Comfortable, Quick, and Built for Stops

This is a RIB speedboat day cruise, and that format is what makes the itinerary possible. A full day lets you visit multiple islands and coves without feeling like you’re spending the best hours staring at the same shore.

You’ll meet your skipper at the dock in Zadar in the morning, then head out across the sea with a comfortable boat setup. The tour includes the skipper, snorkeling gear, and water, plus insurance. That’s helpful because it keeps you from having to think too hard about the basics when you’re on the water.

What I like most is how the pace matches the stops. The boat isn’t just transportation; it sets up frequent moments where you can jump in, snorkel, or relax on beach time. For a 9-hour day, that balance is key. You’ll want energy and a good sense of humor, because speeds and waves go together on this kind of cruise.

Who this speedboat pace suits best

This tour makes sense if you’re:

• Comfortable being out on open water
• Here for swimming and snorkeling, not just scenic viewing
• Interested in multiple natural stops in one day

It’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, wheelchair users, non-swimmers, people with low fitness, or anyone with visual impairment, based on the tour’s own requirements. If you fall into any of those groups, it’s worth looking for a different style of cruise.

Lagnići Cliffs on Dugi Otok: The Start of the Scenery Story

Your day begins with a look at the northern part of Dugi Otok, including the Lagnići cliffs near the Veli Rat lighthouse area. Even if you’re mainly there for water activities later, this kind of first stop helps you set expectations: the coast is rugged, the coastline is built for coves, and the sea shapes everything.

From the water, cliffs like this don’t feel like a postcard. They feel close. It’s also a nice moment to orient yourself before you go into the swim-and-snorkel portion of the day.

A practical note: cliff-side views can be breezy. Bring sunglasses and expect some wind even if the day is warm.

Snorkeling at the Michelle Shipwreck: Corals and Colorful Fish

One of the most praised parts of this tour is the snorkeling at the shipwrecked Italian cargo ship called the Michelle. This is the kind of spot where snorkeling gear inclusion matters, because you can spend your time actually snorkeling instead of shopping for equipment.

The wreck acts like an artificial reef. You’re looking for corals and colorful fish around the structure, and the water is often clear enough to spot movement. There’s a reason this stop keeps landing in top ratings: it turns the trip from sightseeing into a real underwater experience.

Also, this is where your swimming comfort level shows. The tour requires that you can swim, so if you feel unsure in open water, be honest with yourself before booking.

My advice for better wreck snorkeling

• Put on your swimwear and sunscreen before you’re on the boat, so you’re ready fast
• Use the gear you’re given and adjust it right away
• Take it slow for the first minute, then look for fish around shadows and structure

Sakarun Beach: The Sandy Coved Rest Stop You’ll Actually Want

After the shipwreck stop, the tour heads to Sakarun, a sandy cove on the water. This is your classic beach reward: you can jump in, relax, and reset before the next set of natural sights.

Sakarun is a great contrast to rocky stops because it’s straightforward. You get sand under you, enough space to spread out a bit, and plenty of time for casual swimming. If you want a beach day without packing your own beach setup from Zadar, this stop does the work for you.

The cove and surrounding views also help when the day moves fast. Even if you’re excited for caves and coves later, you’ll want at least one moment where the only plan is water time and sun.

Golubinka Cave: Snorkeling Through a Natural Formation

Next up is Golubinka cave on the west coast of Dugi Otok. This is one of those stops that changes the way the sea looks. You’re not just swimming in open water; you’re working through a natural feature, and the water color shifts as light filters through.

The tour includes a snorkeling moment here, too. You’ll be able to snorkel through the underwater cave area, and the result is a striking view of the water’s bright blue tones around the cave opening.

This stop is often memorable because it feels like you’ve stepped into another kind of coastline. It’s more than scenery; it’s a water-based experience with a strong visual payoff.

A small reality check

Cave and snorkeling stops can be more physically demanding than a simple beach swim, even if the water is inviting. If you’re a strong swimmer, you’ll likely enjoy it more. If you like easy water time only, make sure you’re comfortable with the snorkeling requirements.

Lojena Beach in Kornati National Park: Protected Water, Great Swim Time

Then the tour shifts into Kornati National Park with a swim at Lojena Beach on Levrnaka Island. This stop is specifically framed as a protected-park water setting, which is exactly what many people want when they’re hoping for clear, calm conditions.

In plain terms, Kornati is all about the coast line, and Lojena is a strong representative: you get time to swim, snorkel, and soak up the protected-water vibe. The tour guides the experience with gear included, so you can focus on being in the water rather than figuring logistics.

If you’re a snorkeling fan, this is the part where you can spend longer watching fish and exploring lightly around the shoreline. It’s also a strong photo stop, but the real win is the water time.

Vrulje Bay Lunch Break: Where the Food Is Part of the Show

You’ll cruise to the sheltered Vrulje Bay for free time. This is a practical break in the day, but it’s also a chance to eat where you’re already looking at the sea.

You can purchase lunch here at your own pace. The tour doesn’t include this meal cost, but the stop makes it easy: you’re not leaving the islands or searching for a restaurant far from the water.

Smart move for lunch time

• Bring cash. The tour asks for cash for the mandatory protected-area and national park costs, and you’ll likely find it useful at lunch too.
• Don’t plan to need a full meal immediately. The day runs on sea time, so treat lunch as a fuel stop rather than a fine-dining event.

Mana Island: Cliffs and a Film-Location Kind of Fame

After Vrulje, the tour reaches Mana Island, one of the famous islands in the Kornati archipelago. It’s known for its remarkable cliffs and for having been used as a shooting location.

This is a good stop if you like landscape variety. You’ll have some free time to relax in the water or simply enjoy the scenery. It also helps break up the day visually before you head back toward Zadar.

Even if you’re not into film trivia, the reason it’s talked about is the look of the island. Cliffs and open sea views can feel cinematic without needing a soundtrack.

Price and Value: What You’re Paying For (and What You Still Need)

The advertised price is $142 per person for a full-day speedboat tour with RIB transport, skipper, snorkeling gear, water, and insurance. For a 9-hour day that includes multiple major stops, that base price can feel reasonable, especially if you’d otherwise pay for separate boat rides and tours.

But here’s the key value detail: you’ll need to budget extra cash for mandatory fees that are not included. The tour states costs for the marine protected area, berthing fees, and a national park entry ticket, totaling 30 EUR per person in cash.

To judge whether it’s good value for you, think about what you’re actually buying:

• You’re paying for access to several islands and coves in one day
• You’re paying for snorkeling gear and guided stopovers
• You’re paying for a boat format that maximizes water time

If your priority is beach time plus snorkeling at multiple “wow” sites, the cost tends to make more sense than a slower, fewer-stop cruise. If you only want one beach or you don’t swim/snorkel, you may not get the same value.

What to Bring: Simple Stuff That Makes the Day Easier

You don’t need a huge packing list. You do need the right basics so you can get on the water fast and stay comfortable.

Bring:

• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Swimwear and beachwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Cash

That cash part isn’t optional for the on-the-day fees. I’d treat it as part of your packing routine the night before.

Group Size: Why the Tour Feels Like a Day Trip, Not a Factory Line

This is a small-group tour limited to 11 participants. In real terms, that usually means:

• Less crowding at stops
• More flexibility during water time
• A better chance the skipper can keep things running smoothly

Small groups also tend to make the snorkeling and swimming stops more pleasant. You’re not stuck watching other people’s gear and timing. You can plan your own small rhythm: snorkel, look, rest, repeat.

And the reviews point strongly to the vibe. People consistently highlight the fun speedboat sensation and the friendliness/helpfulness of the guide and skipper.

The Main Trade-Offs (Read This Before You Book)

This tour is built for active sea time, not for everyone.

The big trade-offs are:

• You need to swim well enough for snorkeling stops
• It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or people with visual impairment
• People with low fitness may find the day physically tiring
• The cave and snorkeling moments are more “hands-on” than a simple beach tour

Also, because it’s a RIB speedboat, expect a lively ride. If you’re prone to motion sickness, plan accordingly. The route is fast and the sea can change quickly.

Should You Book This Zadar Speedboat Day?

I’d book it if you want a day that combines speedboat fun with real nature time, and you’re excited about snorkeling more than just wading. The Michelle shipwreck stop and the protected Kornati swim at Lojena are the kind of two-part payoff that makes a full day feel worth it.

I would skip it if you’re looking for a low-effort tour, or if you don’t swim. The cave and wreck snorkeling are central to the experience, and the tour has clear suitability limits for that reason.

If you’re comfortable in the water, can handle a 9-hour day, and show up with cash for the mandatory protected-area fees, you’re likely to leave with at least one underwater memory and one beach moment you’ll want to repeat.

FAQ

FAQ

What’s included in the Zadar to Kornati speedboat tour?

The tour includes the RIB speedboat cruise, skipper, snorkeling gear, water, and insurance.

Are national park or protected-area fees included in the price?

No. Mandatory marine protected area costs, berthing fees, and national park entry ticket are not included. The total given is 30 EUR per person in cash.

How long is the tour?

The duration is 9 hours.

How many people are in the group?

It’s a small group limited to 11 participants.

Where do you meet the tour?

You start at the stand with the Arbiana Cruises sign in Zadar.

Is snorkeling included, and do I need to bring gear?

Snorkeling gear is included.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?

No. The tour is not suitable for non-swimmers.

What stops are the highlights of the day?

You’ll see places including the Lagnići cliffs, the shipwreck of the Michelle, Sakarun Beach, the Golubinka cave, Lojena Beach in Kornati National Park, Vrulje Bay for free time, and Mana Island.

What should I bring with me?

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash.

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