Zadar: Boat Tour with Unlimited Wine & 3 Stops

If you’re heading to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, chances are you’ve heard about the incredible scenic beauty of Zadar’s shoreline and islands. This boat tour with unlimited wine and three stops promises a relaxed yet vibrant way to explore some of the region’s highlights, all from the comfort of a historic wooden vessel. While it’s certainly a popular activity, it’s worth understanding what makes it worth your time—and what to keep in mind before booking.

We’re here to give you a clear picture: from the scenic cruise, the charming stops, to the lively atmosphere onboard, this experience offers a laid-back yet memorable day on the water. If you love good wine, scenic views, and the chance to cool off in crystal-clear waters, this tour is likely to hit the spot. However, it’s not the best choice if you’re seeking a more structured cultural tour or if mobility is an issue, as some stops involve walking and swimming.

Three things we love about this experience: the vintage boat charm, the variety of stops with different vibes, and the friendly, knowledgeable crew.
One thing to consider: the weather dependency for the Hidden Bay stop might mean less time in that particular spot.
This tour suits those looking for a fun, casual day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying local wines—perfect for couples, friends, or small groups craving a taste of Dalmatian life.

Good To Know

• Authentic Heritage Vessel: The boat is over 120 years old, adding charm and character to the experience.
• Unlimited Wine & Refreshments: Enjoy white wine, still water, and juices throughout the cruise.
• Three Unique Stops: Kukljica, Hidden Bay, and Kali each offer different scenery and activities.
• Flexible, Relaxed Pace: The tour lasts about 4 hours with plenty of time to swim, walk, and take photos.
• Guided Experience: An English-speaking guide provides insights and keeps the trip organized.
• Weather-Dependent: The Hidden Bay stop is subject to weather conditions, which could influence your experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Introduction to the Experience

This boat tour from Zadar offers a scenic way to explore Dalmatia’s coastline and islands without the need to rent a boat or plan complicated logistics. It’s marketed as a relaxed, fun-filled outing with unlimited wine, three stops, and panoramic views. Based on countless reviews, it seems to deliver on these promises while offering some surprises along the way.

One of the most charming aspects of this experience is the vessel itself. Built over a century ago, the 120-year-old wooden boat exudes nostalgia and authentic character. Unlike modern cruise ships, this vessel has a rustic, cozy vibe that adds to the sense of adventure, especially when you settle into the wooden benches or lean over the rail to snap photos.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour commences at Gostilje Boat Excursions, conveniently located near the city. You’ll start with a panoramic cruise along Zadar’s coastline, where the views are simply stunning. Expect to see rocky hills, turquoise waters, and the spread of the Dalmatian landscape as your vessel gently sails along.

The first stop, Kukljica, is a small village with a lovely beach and a charming atmosphere. Here, you’re encouraged to enjoy a 45-minute swim or walk, taking in the peaceful environment. Reviewers like Sabrina Kira loved this stop, mentioning how relaxing it was and how much they appreciated their skipper’s friendly guidance.

Next, the boat drops anchor at Hidden Bay, which is the highlight for many. The 50-minute stop in this secluded cove allows for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the boat. It’s weather-dependent, so if the captain decides not to drop the anchor here, you’ll have more time at the other stops, as noted by reviewers who appreciated the flexibility.

The final planned stop is Kali, a picturesque fishing village with a beautiful beach and some fantastic local snacks. Many travelers, such as Jack and Sarah, recommend visiting the Srdela Snack bar for regional seafood or fast food at reasonable prices. This stop lasts about 45 minutes, allowing enough time to explore and relax before heading back.

On the return journey, the boat sails back along the coast, with 30 minutes of relaxing cruising. Throughout, the unlimited wine flows freely, and the friendly crew keeps the atmosphere lively and engaging. Reviewers frequently praise the crew’s helpfulness and the overall vibe, describing it as a perfect mix of fun and laid-back.

What It’s Like Onboard

The experience on this vintage vessel is quite different from modern boats. The wooden construction and open-air setting create a nostalgic, breezy ambiance. The crew, including captain Ivan and guide Wiktorija (as some reviews mention), are noted for their friendly demeanor and clear communication.

The free-flowing white wine is a major perk. Many reviewers mention how much they appreciated the quality and abundance of the wine, which truly helps set a relaxed tone. Besides wine, you’ll find still water and juices available, making it easy to stay refreshed.

The snorkeling gear provided allows those interested to explore underwater. While the waters are generally clear and inviting, some reviews suggest bringing water shoes for easier access to swim spots, especially for walks to the pebbled beaches.

The Highlights of Each Stop

• Kukljica: A tranquil village with a lovely beach. Reviewers like Sara found it simple but perfect for a quick dip and walk.
• Hidden Bay: The star of the trip for many, this secluded spot offers ideal swimming conditions. Jack called it “stunning,” and others appreciated how it felt like a secret escape.
• Kali: Its charm lies in the authentic fishing village vibe, combined with a beautiful beach and the chance to try local snacks. The Srdela Snack bar is highly recommended for sampling Croatian seafood.

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The Value for Money

At $40 per person, this tour provides good value, especially considering the included unlimited wine, the guided commentary, and the multiple stops. The reviews consistently mention how these trips are “great value,” with many saying they’d happily pay more for such an enjoyable day.

However, some mention that the duration is only about 4 hours, which might feel short to those wanting longer beach days. Yet, the combination of scenic cruising, swimming, and tasting local snacks makes it a well-rounded experience.

Practical Tips and What to Bring

To make the most of your trip, consider packing:

• Sun hat and biodegradable sunscreen to protect against the Croatian sun
• Swimwear and towel for water activities
• Water shoes to improve comfort walking on pebbled beaches
• Cash for the docking fee (€10 per adult, €5 per child), paid in cash at the stops
• Camera or smartphone for capturing the stunning scenery

As for timing, check availability beforehand since the tour runs in the morning or afternoon. It lasts approximately 4 hours, so plan your day around it.

Weather and Rescheduling Considerations

The tour is weather-dependent—if conditions aren’t suitable, the Hidden Bay stop may be canceled or replaced with more time elsewhere. The activity provider, Forum Tours, will typically reschedule, often the day before, so keep an eye on the forecast and stay flexible.

In case of low bookings or unforeseen circumstances, the trip might be canceled, but the provider offers full refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

This boat trip is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, sip, and soak in the scenery. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families who enjoy casual outings rather than structured cultural tours. If you love good wine, easygoing adventures, and picturesque coastal views, you’ll find this experience charming.

It’s not perfect for people with mobility impairments due to walking and swimming considerations, but otherwise, it’s a comfortable and enjoyable way to see parts of Dalmatia that are otherwise hard to reach.

This Zadar boat tour offers a delightful blend of scenic cruising, authentic stops, and convivial atmosphere, all at a reasonable price. The vintage boat adds a touch of character that you won’t find on newer vessels, and the generous wine flow keeps spirits high.

The stops at Kukljica, Hidden Bay, and Kali each bring something special to the table—whether it’s tranquility, snorkeling, or genuine Dalmatian village charm. Many reviewers highlight the friendly crew and well-organized schedule as standout features.

If you’re after a fun, relaxed day with great scenery and a friendly vibe, this tour fits the bill. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to unwind, take in Croatia’s coast, and enjoy some local flavors along the way.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 4 hours, including all stops and cruising time.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the boat ride on a 120-year-old heritage vessel, unlimited white wine, still water, juices, a tour guide, and snorkeling gear.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, but the Kali stop offers the opportunity to buy regional snacks and food at the local Srdela Snack bar.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The reviews suggest the experience is suitable for small groups, but specific group size limits are not mentioned.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, biodegradable sunscreen), swimwear, towel, water shoes, cash for docking fees, and a camera.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. The provider may reschedule in case of bad weather or low bookings.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While generally family-friendly, the tour involves walking and swimming, so consider your child’s mobility and swimming ability.

Where do I meet the tour?
At the pier off Obala kralja Petra Kreimira IV street, near the small white lighthouse. Check your booking details for exact directions.

In essence, this boat tour offers a lovely slice of Dalmatian coast life—relaxing, scenic, and infused with local charm. Perfect for those seeking an easy-going day, good drinks, and memorable views.

You can check if your dates are available here: