Speedboats make islands feel close. This private day trip from Zadar to Dugi Otok mixes big scenery (razor-sharp cliffs on Long Island) with boat-only stops like Golubinka Cave, plus multiple chances to swim where you want.

I also like the way the day stays flexible: your skipper can choose anchor points, so you’re not stuck in one boring sequence. Snorkeling equipment rental is included, so you can go straight from boat to sea (mask on, phones away). One thing to consider is that the caves and best stops depend on good weather, and wind can change the plan.

Key Highlights You’ll Care About

• Boat-only access to Golubinka Cave and the Dragon-Eye cave on Long Island
• Flexible swim anchoring at places like Veli Žal and Sakarun
• Snorkeling equipment included so you don’t have to pack gear
• Private tour feel with a small group size (up to 12)
• Skipper-led routing with “make the best of it” flexibility when conditions shift

From Zadar to Dugi Otok by Private Speedboat: Why This Works

This is one of those trips where the transport is the experience. Instead of spending your day waiting around on a bigger vessel, you’re on a private speedboat that can get you quickly out into the best stretch of water around Long Island and Dugi Otok.

The payoff is time. You get to spend the hours where it matters—at beaches, at cave viewpoints, and in the water—rather than burning daylight on slow travel. It also means you can react to real conditions. If the sea feels rough in one corner, a good skipper can steer you toward calmer swim time.

Another smart value: the tour builds in multiple “water moments.” You’re not just looking at the coast—you’re stopping often enough to actually use it. That matters on islands, where the best views usually come with a strong urge to swim.

Price and Value: What $144.18 Includes (And Why It’s Not Just a Boat Rental)

At $144.18 per person, this isn’t a cheap impulse buy. But the cost starts to make sense because you’re paying for a private speedboat day with real inclusions.

Here’s what is covered:

• Fuel and skipper are included
• Snorkeling equipment rental is included
• Snorkeling gear is part of the on-tour setup (not something you’re expected to chase down)

What’s not included:

• Lunch

So you’re not just buying transportation. You’re buying guidance to reach boat-only sites (like Golubinka Cave), plus the equipment that lets you swim and snorkel without extra errands.

One more practical angle: if you’re traveling as a small group, private boat pricing often stops feeling “outrageous” and starts looking like a normal vacation splurge. Reviews here consistently point to how much you feel in control of where you stop and how you use the day—those choices are what you’re really paying for.

Getting There: Uvala Dražanica, 9:00am Start, and Being Ready

The meeting point is Uvala Dražanica, Obala kneza Trpimira 38, 23000 Zadar. You’ll meet about 20 minutes before the boat tour starts, with the official start time listed as 9:00am.

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to be fashionably late, this is not the day for it. Speedboat days run on a tight rhythm, and the cave portion depends on getting to the right spots when conditions allow it.

Pickup is offered, so you might not need to figure out everything on your own once you’re in Zadar. Still, the cleanest plan is to know where your meeting point is and arrive early enough that you’re not sprinting down the dock with a bag full of wet-towel dreams.

Golubinka Cave and Long Island’s Dragon-Eye: Boat-Only Magic

The day centers on Long Island, often described as “nautical paradise” for its sharp cliffs and the open-water feel. Your first major stop is Golubinka Cave, followed by the Dragon-Eye shaped cave.

What makes this worth a speedboat?

• It’s only accessible by boat, which changes the whole vibe. You’re not just standing near a landmark—you’re approaching it out on the water.
• The cave area ties directly to the island’s dramatic coastline. The cliffs and the water surface give you those photo angles that are hard to recreate from shore.

You’ll also want to remember that caves are weather-sensitive. A cloudy or windy day might not ruin everything, but it can shift what the skipper can safely do and how the timing plays out. The best strategy is simple: show up on time, trust the skipper, and stay ready for Plan B.

Veli Žal: The “Small Natural Beach” Stop That Feels Like a Reset

After the cave time, you shift to a smaller natural beach stop: Veli Žal.

This is one of the better kinds of beach stops—small, open-sea swimming, and a change of pace from cave sightseeing. It’s also the sort of location where you can feel the benefit of choosing a private routing. You’re not just following a crowd; you’re getting your own time in the water.

What to expect practically:

• You’ll have a swim window rather than a long hike or a long “stand and look” stretch.
• This is a good moment to rinse your brain after cave viewing—plain water, clear visuals, and fewer moving parts.

Sakarun Beach (Sahatun/Saharun): The Instagram Stop That Usually Delivers

Next comes the star: Sakarun Beach, the one people recognize fast from social photos.

There’s a reason it gets chosen. The beach is sandy, the swim area is popular, and the scenery reads instantly even if you’re not the type who hunts for perfect shots.

Still, keep your expectations realistic. A busy beach photo can hide the fact that you’ll want actual swimming time, not just sand-walking time. The private boat format helps because your skipper can time and position the stop so you can make the most of it.

My practical advice:

• Bring water shoes if you have them. Sand and small bits can be fine for some people and annoying for others.
• Don’t wait until the end to swim. The light and the temperature can change during a long boat day.

The Sunken Ship Stop: Where Snorkeling Time Becomes the Whole Point

One stop stands out because it’s built for water use: the sunken ship area, with time for snorkeling.

This is where the included snorkeling equipment rental earns its keep. A sunken ship isn’t just a view from above; it’s the kind of underwater target that makes you want to put your mask on right away.

A quick reality check:

• You’ll get the most out of this if you’re comfortable with basic snorkeling. You don’t need to be a pro, but you do need to be willing to float, look, and try.
• On some days, visibility and comfort can vary with conditions, since wind and sea state affect how easy it is to snorkel.

Also note a small review-based consideration: one person mentioned they wanted a bit more snorkeling material. If you’re a frequent snorkeler and picky about fit, consider bringing your own mask if you have one that you love.

The Army Tunnel Lunch-Time Stop: History-By-Water, Plus an Optional Meal

You’ll also stop at the army tunnel for lunch-time (optional).

What makes this interesting is the contrast. You’ve got dramatic water stops, then you pivot to a structure with a past. Even if you don’t spend long on land, it adds variety to the day and gives you something different to photograph besides beach and caves.

Lunch is optional and not included, so think of this as time your skipper can use to help you decide where to eat. In at least one account, a lunch spot was recommended and described as an affordable seafood meal experience. So even if you’re not getting lunch through the tour price, you’re not totally on your own for ideas during the day.

Small-Group Feel (Up to 12) and Private Control of the Day

The tour format is designed for small groups—up to 12 people—which changes the feel fast.

On larger boat tours, you often feel like you’re stuck in a conveyor belt. Here, the day is described as tailored to guests’ wishes, and the itinerary is optional and customizable based on what you want.

That matters for two reasons:

• It supports flexible swim time instead of “grab a towel and go.”
• It gives your skipper room to choose where conditions look best.

Even if you’re not making special requests, you’ll benefit from a route that isn’t locked in like a theme-park schedule.

Snorkeling Gear and What to Pack for a 7–8 Hour Sea Day

Snorkeling equipment is included, but you still need to show up prepared like you’re going to actually use it.

Bring:

• Swimwear you can wear on and off the boat
• A towel (or you’ll regret it)
• Sun protection (even on cloudy days, the water reflects light)
• A dry bag for your phone and essentials

Wear:

• Something comfortable for boarding and re-boarding the speedboat
• If you’re sensitive underfoot, consider water shoes for beaches

One more mindset tip: speedboat days move fast. Your best photos won’t come from holding your camera all day. They’ll come when you’re ready at the right stop and actually in position to enjoy the water, not just document it.

Weather and Timing: How Conditions Shape the Route

This experience clearly requires good weather. That’s not just a “fine print” point—it’s the difference between a smooth cave sequence and a shortened plan.

You can also see evidence of how timing affects the caves: if you’re delayed or conditions don’t cooperate, the skipper may prioritize the parts of the route that work best that day. So if you’re one of those travelers who wants a checklist, keep it flexible. Your goal is the overall day: caves, swimming, and that open-sea feeling.

Good skipper skills really matter here. A strong approach isn’t about forcing a perfect itinerary; it’s about finding the best possible spots under the real sky you got that morning.

Who This Private Sakarun and Golubinka Tour Is Best For

This tour fits best if you want:

• A private boat day with frequent swimming stops
• Boat-only access to caves like Golubinka Cave and the Dragon-Eye cave
• Included snorkeling gear without extra stops or rentals

It’s especially good for:

• Families who want a safe-feeling, guided day with plenty of breaks
• Couples and small groups who like off-the-beaten-path swim time
• Travelers who care more about water time than long shore excursions

If you hate movement—quick boardings, changing locations, and short stops—this might feel like too much. But if you’re energized by sea days, it’s a very strong match.

Should You Book This Private Speedboat Tour to Sakarun and Golubinka?

If your top priorities are boat-only caves, Sakarun Beach, and real swim time with snorkeling gear included, then yes, this is a smart booking. The price may look high until you add up what you’re actually getting: private speedboat time, fuel and skipper, and snorkeling equipment.

I’d especially recommend it if:

• You value flexibility and want a day shaped by the conditions
• You’d rather swim in private-feeling spots than tour crowds
• You want a guided plan that gets you to recognizable highlights without stressful logistics

If your trip is during a period when wind is common, or you’re traveling with low tolerance for weather changes, build a Plan B in your schedule. The day depends on sea conditions, and that can change cave timing.

FAQ

How long is the private speedboat tour?

It runs about 7 to 8 hours.

Where is the meeting point and when does the tour start?

You meet at Uvala Dražanica, Obala kneza Trpimira 38, 23000 Zadar. The start time is 9:00am, and you should arrive about 20 minutes before.

Is pickup offered?

Yes, pickup is offered.

Is lunch included in the price?

No. Lunch is not included.

What’s included for snorkeling?

Snorkeling equipment is included (rental is provided during the tour).

Is this a private tour?

Yes. This is a private tour/activity, and only your group participates.

Can you choose where you swim during the tour?

The tour is described as flexible. You can choose where you want to anchor and go for a swim.

What happens if weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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