Dugi Otok HotSpots: Sandy Lagoon, Shipwreck and Cold War Submarine Tunnel
Aug 04, 2026The Dugi Otok HotSpots tour is one of the most popular boat tours from Zadar, combining swimming, snorkelling, history and island sightseeing in a single afternoon. In just four and a half hours, guests experience some of the most memorable locations in the Zadar Archipelago, like a sandy lagoon or a historic shipwreck and a Cold War submarine tunnel or the charming village of Božava.
Departing from the Zadar Archipelago office on Obala kneza Trpimira, the tour welcomes a maximum of 12 guests, creating a relaxed atmosphere throughout the day. The small group size also allows the skipper to adapt the route to the day’s sea conditions while ensuring everyone has plenty of space on board. The first cruise lasts around 45 minutes, passing the islands of Ugljan, Rivanj and Sestrunj before reaching the first destination on the Dugi Otok HotSpots tour.
Sabuša Sandy Lagoon
The first stop on the Dugi Otok HotSpots tour is Sabuša Bay on the southern coast of Molat. It is one of the few natural sandy lagoons in the Zadar Archipelago, making it a favourite swimming destination during the summer months.
As the speedboat enters the bay, the sea changes from deep blue to crystal-clear turquoise. The sandy seabed slopes gently, allowing guests to walk far into the water while it remains shallow. The calm conditions make this an excellent location for families, casual swimmers and anyone looking to relax in one of the most peaceful bays near Dugi Otok.
Guests spend around 45 minutes here, enjoying the warm water, floating in the lagoon or simply taking in the quiet surroundings. Pine trees and Mediterranean vegetation surround the bay, creating a natural setting that feels far from the busy beaches closer to the mainland.
Michele Shipwreck
One of the highlights of Dugi Otok HotSpots is the Michele shipwreck. This Italian merchant vessel rests in shallow water just off the coast of Dugi Otok and has become one of the best snorkelling locations in the Zadar Archipelago.
On calm days, the outline of the wreck is already visible from the boat before guests enter the water. Snorkelling equipment is included, allowing everyone to explore the wreck while colourful fish swim around the remains of the vessel. The excellent visibility makes it easy to admire the structure from above, whether swimming directly over it or observing from the boat.
The Michele has gradually become an artificial reef, attracting a wide variety of marine life. For many visitors, this stop is one of the most memorable moments of the entire Dugi Otok boat tour.
Cold War Submarine Tunnel
The third stop on the Dugi Otok Hot Spots tour takes guests inside one of the island’s most fascinating Cold War landmarks. Hidden within the rocky coastline of Dugi Otok, this former Yugoslav submarine tunnel was built to shelter military submarines and naval vessels from aerial surveillance while providing a protected base along the Adriatic coast.
As the speedboat enters the tunnel, daylight quickly fades and the temperature becomes noticeably cooler. The calm water, towering rock walls and echoing sounds create a completely different atmosphere from the open sea outside, making this one of the most memorable stops on the tour.
The skipper explains the history of the submarine tunnel, its strategic importance during the Cold War and how it formed part of the former Yugoslav naval defence system. Guests can take photographs and experience one of the most unique military sites on Dugi Otok before continuing through the Zadar Archipelago.
Božava Village
The final stop on the Dugi Otok HotSpots tour is the peaceful village of Božava on the northeastern coast of Dugi Otok.
Known for its pine forests, traditional stone houses and quiet harbour, Božava offers a slower pace after the adventure-filled first part of the tour. Guests have around an hour of free time to explore the village, enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant, stop for a refreshing ice cream or relax with a coffee overlooking the harbour. Those who prefer to stay active can take another swim or enjoy a short walk along the pine-lined promenade.
Božava remains one of the most authentic villages on Dugi Otok, offering visitors a glimpse into everyday island life. Fishing boats gently rock in the harbour while cafés and local restaurants create a welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind before returning to Zadar.
Return to Zadar
The return journey takes around 30 minutes, with the skyline of Zadar slowly appearing on the horizon. Before reaching the harbour, the boat passes the famous Sea Organ, where the movement of the waves creates music through pipes hidden beneath the waterfront steps.
It is a fitting end to a day spent exploring the natural beauty and hidden history of Dugi Otok.
If you are visiting Croatia for the first time or just looking for a different way to explore the Adriatic, booking this boat combines adventure, relaxation and sightseeing into one unforgettable experience. Dugi Otok HotSpots boat tour remains one of the highest-rated boat tours in the Zadar Archipelago and one of the best ways to discover the beauty of Dugi Otok – book here.
