4 Jewels of Zadar, Dugi otok, sunken ship – Half day

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and get a taste of Croatia’s beautiful Dalmatian coast, the 4 Jewels of Zadar tour offers a compact yet immersive experience. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal a well-organized outing packed with scenic beauty, interesting sights, and authentic moments. For just $40 per person, it promises good value, especially considering the mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and history.

What really catches our eye are the stunning island stops, the mysterious military tunnels, and the chance to explore a sunken merchant ship with a story. Add in the enthusiasm of the guides, and it sounds like a fun, relaxed way to see the Zadar archipelago.

One thing to keep in mind, though: weather conditions can influence the itinerary, especially the visibility of the sunken ship or access to certain stops. This shouldn’t deter you if you’re keen on a quick, scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities to swim and learn. The tour suits travelers looking for a balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of the islands’ beauty.

Good To Know

• Scenic island stops with swimming and snorkeling opportunities
• Interesting historical sites, including military tunnels from the Cold War era
• Affordable price that delivers good value for a half-day adventure
• Expert guides who offer insightful commentary and ensure safety
• Flexible itinerary, sometimes adjusted for weather conditions
• Includes snorkeling gear, safety equipment, and insurance for peace of mind

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off from a designated meeting point in Zadar, where a friendly guide or skipper, often dressed in a white T-shirt with the tour inscription, welcomes groups. The speedboat itself looks modern and secure, designed for comfort and safety. Expect a ride of approximately 45 minutes to your first stop, with the same time back at the end—meaning the entire experience lasts around four and a half hours.

The small group size and knowledgeable skipper, often nicknamed Marco or Johnny in reviews, make the journey feel intimate rather than rushed. They provide commentary on the sights, share stories of the islands, and keep the mood lively through Bluetooth speakers with music, adding to the relaxed vibe.

First Stop: Muline Village and Juna Luka Beach

The tour’s first destination is the village of Muline on Ugljan Island. This tiny fishing village is famous for its authentic Dalmatian charm and beautiful views. Here, you can choose to swim in the crystal-clear waters or take a leisurely walk, explore the local sights, or grab a coffee at a seaside cafe.

The beaches here, especially Juna Luka, are characterized by pine trees that seem to touch the water, creating picture-perfect scenery. Reviewers mention taking sea shoes for swimming, as some spots can be rocky. The water’s transparency makes it perfect for snorkelers wanting to observe marine life up close.

Second Stop: Dugi Otok and Cold War Tunnels

Next, the boat heads to Dugi Otok, known for its rugged cliffs and quiet coves. The highlight here is the military tunnels, built during the Cold War by ex-Yugoslavian authorities. These tunnels reveal a different side of the islands—history buried beneath the surface, now a fascinating stop for those interested in Cold War relics.

While not every trip guarantees access to all sites—sometimes weather conditions or safety considerations lead to modifications—reviews confirm that the tunnels are a major point of interest. Visitors describe them as “interesting” and “a little spooky”, adding a layer of intrigue to the day.

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Third Stop: Island of Molat and Uvala Sabua

Moving on, the tour takes you to Molat Island, where Uvala Sabua offers a tranquil bay, partly sandy and partly rocky. This spot provides a chance to relax in peaceful surroundings, swim, or snorkel. The calm waters are praised for their clarity, and reviewers often mention the quiet beauty of sites like Sabua, perfect for unwinding.

Final Stop: The Sunken Merchant Ship

The last, most talked-about highlight is the sunken merchant ship, known as Ledenik. Over the years, marine flora and fauna have made it home, creating a vibrant underwater scene. Snorkelers will enjoy exploring the ship’s remains and spotting marine life.

However, some reviews note that not everyone gets to see the sunken ship—the visibility depends heavily on weather and sea conditions. In one review, a traveler mentions that they didn’t see the ship due to unsuitable conditions, but appreciated the effort to prioritize safety.

Snorkeling and Safety

Snorkeling equipment is included, and the guides are praised for their attentiveness and safety consciousness. One reviewer appreciated how the skipper avoided splashing water and offered insightful information about each site. It’s clear that safety and comfort are priorities, especially in potentially choppy waters.

Food, Drinks, and Extras

While lunch isn’t included in the ticket price, some stops feature bars or cafes where you can grab a snack or drink. Reviewers recommend bringing some extra food or snacks if you’re hungry, as the stops are relatively short for meals—but the local white wine and Tuna burger enjoyed by some travelers sound tempting.

Weather and Itinerary Flexibility

A common thread in reviews is that weather can impact the tour. Strong winds or poor visibility might mean some sites, especially the sunken ship, are skipped or the itinerary is adjusted. The skipper’s flexibility and focus on safety come across as a major plus, ensuring you still get a worthwhile experience despite conditions.

How Much Value Does This Tour Offer?

At $40 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. You get to visit multiple islands, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, explore Cold War tunnels, and learn about the local history from engaging guides. The small group size and personalized comments enhance the experience, creating a feeling of exploring with friends rather than just a crowd.

Compared to longer or more expensive trips, this half-day adventure hits a sweet spot: it’s enough time to see several highlights without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear, insurance, and safety equipment makes it a hassle-free option for travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers wanting a quick but diverse tour of Zadar’s islands. It’s especially ideal for those interested in history—like Cold War relics—or looking to swim and snorkel in beautiful, peaceful spots. If you enjoy informative guides, local stories, and scenic boat rides, you’ll be pleased.

Families with kids who are comfortable in the water will appreciate the shallow bays and snorkeling stops, while couples or groups of friends seeking a relaxed, scenic escape will find plenty to enjoy.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer longer excursions with meals included, this might not be the perfect fit. It’s best for those who are comfortable with a rougher boat ride and prepared for variable weather conditions.

Final Thoughts

The 4 Jewels of Zadar half-day tour is a fantastic way to see the islands’ highlights in a short time frame. It combines scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and marine fun, all delivered by friendly guides who prioritize safety.

The value lies in the variety of stops—from peaceful bays to Cold War tunnels—and the opportunity to snorkel around a sunken ship. The overall reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and relaxed atmosphere.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a compact, fun-filled experience without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It offers a genuine taste of Dalmatia’s coast, combined with memorable stories and plenty of opportunities to relax and explore.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4.5 hours, including travel time between stops.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the speedboat, a skipper/guide, snorkeling equipment, insurance, all safety gear, a fridge, fuel, and Bluetooth music.

Are meals provided?
No, meals are not included, but there are bars at some stops where you can buy snacks and drinks.

Can I see the sunken ship?
Depending on weather and sea conditions, the sunken ship might be visible for snorkeling. Sometimes, visibility isn’t suitable, and the ship isn’t accessible.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially if they are comfortable in the water. The bays are generally shallow and suitable for snorkeling.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sea shoes if you prefer, snacks if hungry, and a hat or sunscreen for sun protection.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary might be modified for safety reasons. The guides prioritize your safety and will adjust plans accordingly.

How many people are in each tour?
The tour is small, with groups typically kept intimate for a better experience.

Is there an age limit?
No specific age limit is mentioned, but children should be comfortable with boat rides and water activities.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online through platforms like GetYourGuide and choose to pay later for flexibility.

To sum it up, the 4 Jewels of Zadar tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and historically interesting half-day adventure that balances fun, relaxation, and discovery. It’s perfect for those eager to explore Croatia’s coastal gems without committing to a full-day trip, and the reviews suggest it’s a safe, enjoyable choice with guides who genuinely care about your experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: