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Zrmanja - Boat Tour

The Best Boat Tour Through the Zrmanja Canyon from Starigrad Paklenica

Experience the untouched beauty of the Zrmanja River canyon on an unforgettable boat tour from Starigrad Paklenica. Sail on Barbarinac, a restored traditional wooden boat from 1906.

Duration
6 h
Departure
Starigrad Paklenica
Boat
Barbarinac
Meet the beauty and beast

Sailing Trip Zrmanja and Canyon

Zrmanja Boat Tour Route Map
TOUR ZRMANJA — ITINERARY

Your day on the water

A full six hours of breathtaking scenery, history, and relaxation — Zrmanja boat tour from harbour to canyon and back.

09:00
Departure
Board in Starigrad Paklenica
The Barbarinac is docked at the harbour in front of Pansion Roli. Welcome drinks are served as you settle in and enjoy the first views of the Paklenica Riviera, with the Velebit mountain range rising dramatically in the background.
10:15
🌉
Maslenica Bridge
Pass beneath the iconic Maslenica bridge — one of the most beautiful bridges in Croatia. Its striking red arch rises seamlessly from the stark karst landscape, framed by the Velebit mountains on the horizon.
10:40
🏔️ Highlight
Enter the Zrmanja Canyon
The boat enters the canyon as sheer limestone cliffs soar 200 metres on either side, channelling the emerald-green Zrmanja river. Navigate deep into this pristine gorge, passing the legendary filming locations of the classic Winnetou western series.
12:40
🍽️ Lunch & Swim
Swimming & Lunch on Board
We drop anchor in the crystal-clear Novigrad Sea for a refreshing swim. Back on board, enjoy a traditional Dalmatian lunch — locally sourced prosciutto, aged cheese, kulen, and fresh fish — accompanied by wine and two included aperitifs.
13:30
🌊
Return Journey
Relax on the open deck as the Barbarinac makes its way back along the Dalmatian coast. Soak in the last views of the Velebit range, the Maslenica gorge, and the shimmering Adriatic — the perfect end to a perfect day.
15:00
🏁 Arrival
Back in Starigrad Paklenica
Disembark refreshed and full of memories after a full day on one of Croatia's most spectacular waterways. The harbour is within walking distance of accommodation, restaurants, and transport links.
Total duration
6 hours
Our Advantages

Why choose boat trip on the Zrmanja?

Historic wooden boat Barbarinac

Historic Vessel

Journey aboard Barbarinac, a meticulously restored wooden ship from 1906, with a welcome drink and traditional lunch included.

Zrmanja river canyon views

Scenic Canyon

Navigate through stunning 200m cliffs and emerald waters with a professional local crew and full insurance coverage.

Winnetou movie filming locations

Film Locations

Visit iconic Winnetou movie filming locations along the spectacular canyon with perfect photo opportunities.

Swimming in the crystal clear sea

Swimming Break

Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear Novigrad Sea during a scheduled swimming stop in a secluded, peaceful bay.

Dalmatian prosciutto and cheese

Local Cuisine

Savour traditional Dalmatian delicacies — prosciutto, cheese, kulen, and fresh fish — prepared fresh and served on board.

Experienced local boat crew

Expert Guidance

Learn about the history and nature from our experienced local crew throughout the full-day adventure on this waterway.

Excursion from Starigrad Paklenica

Zrmanja boat tour – Where Untouched Nature Takes Your Breath Away

There are natural wonders in this world that stop you in your tracks. If you are searching for the most scenic boat excursion to Zrmanja canyon, stepping aboard the Barbarinac is the ultimate choice.

Our unique boat trip from Starigrad Paklenica starts aboard the historic Barbarinac – a beautifully restored wooden vessel built in 1906. As you glide along the Paklenica Riviera with the majestic Velebit mountain range rising behind you, you immediately feel this is no ordinary day out. The noise of everyday life quickly fades away, replaced by the serene peace of untouched nature.

Wooden boat Barbarinac
Zrmanja Canyon
"Witness two hundred meters of ancient limestone cliffs, carved by water into a spectacular gorge. The emerald-green river below creates a stunning contrast that makes this Zrmanja canyon tour a paradise for nature lovers."

This is the river Zrmanja – wild, majestic, and completely unforgettable. It is no wonder this exact breathtaking landscape was chosen as the main filming location for the legendary Winnetou movies. One glance at these towering karst rocks tells you exactly why.

Unforgettable Zrmanja boat tour

Sailing with us is more than just sightseeing; it's a shared adventure. Onboard our Zrmanja boat tour, the atmosphere is warm, relaxed, and full of life. Enjoy local wine, traditional Dalmatian food, and shared laughter under the Mediterranean sun — moments that fill you with energy and make your holiday complete.

This is bound to be the highlight of your summer holiday in Starigrad Paklenica. A full-day Zrmanja boat excursion that you will carry in your memories long after you return home.

Pricing · All-Inclusive Full Day Experience

Zrmanja Boat Tour – Prices & Tickets

60
per person
Adults (14+ years)
45
per person
Children 5–13 years
Free
of charge
Children under 5
✓  Included in the price
  • Entry ticket for the Zrmanja Canyon Nature Reserve
  • Full boat ride aboard the traditional wooden boat Barbarinac
  • Welcome drink and hot coffee upon boarding
  • Unlimited drinks during the tour: water, juices, and wine
  • 2 local aperitifs (1 in the morning and 1 after lunch)
  • Fresh lunch prepared on board: fish (mackerel, fillets, or hake) or chicken with potatoes
  • VAT included in the price
✕  Not included
  • Transfer to the harbor in Starigrad Paklenica
  • Personal consumption outside the boat
  • Beer and soda drinks (available for purchase on board)
Secure Your Spot

Send a Booking Inquiry

BARBARINAC — THE CELEBRATED HISTORIC SAILING SHIP

Book Your Zrmanja Excursion on a Legend

Historic wooden boat Barbarinac built in 1906

A boat that connected Dalmatian islands with the mainland for decades, celebrated by island girls with the playful tune: "Barbarinac, may your propeller fall off, for taking my sweetheart away." — a humorous local legend that lives on today. Secure your spot on our excursion from Starigrad Paklenica, sail through Zrmanja Canyon aboard the Barbarinac, and the moment you step onto its wooden deck, you become a part of beautiful, living Croatian history.

Year Built 1906 Koper (Slovenia)
Ship Length 19 m Restored in 1992
Capacity 100 Happy Guests
⚓ From Cargo Vessel to Elegant Sailing Ship

Built under the original name "Sv. Ivan" (St. John), this historic vessel was initially used to transport wine from the island of Hvar. Originally designed as a stout 15.80-meter wooden lugger, a major restoration in 1992 extended the ship to 19 meters, transforming it into an elegant replica of traditional Adriatic sailing ships.

Guest Reviews

What Our Guests Say About Us

★★★★★

"Lovely blend of dramatic canyon scenery and crystal clear waters. The experience is perfectly paced, with fantastic swim stops and welcoming and professional crew."

M

Martina Berger

Google Review
★★★★★

"The tour is amazing, loved the canyon,the crew is very friendly and the food was very nice ...10/10"

N

Nikola

Google Review
★★★★★

"We had a wonderful experience on this tour boat. The scenery was absolutely stunning and showcased the beauty of the Croatian coastline perfectly. ..."

M

Matea Katusic

Google Review
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Explore & Learn

Zrmanja Travel Guide & Tips

Read our latest articles to plan your perfect day trip, discover hidden spots, and make the most of your excursion.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before booking

What is included in the Zrmanja boat excursion price?
The price of €60 per person includes entry tickets for the Zrmanja Canyon Nature Reserve, the full boat ride aboard Barbarinac, welcome drinks and coffee upon boarding, unlimited drinks during the tour (water, juices, and wine), two local aperitifs (one in the morning and one after lunch), and a freshly prepared lunch served on board (fish - mackerel, fillets, or hake, or chicken with potatoes). VAT is included in the price.
Is the Zrmanja boat excursion suitable for children?
Yes, the Zrmanja boat excursion is family-friendly and not physically demanding. Children up to 5 years old travel free of charge. Children between 5 and 13 years pay €45. The Barbarinac is stable and safe, with plenty of space to relax on deck.
What time does the Zrmanja boat tour depart from Starigrad Paklenica?
The Barbarinac departs every morning at 9:00 AM from the harbour in Starigrad Paklenica, in front of Pansion Roli. The excursion lasts approximately 6 hours, with the return to Starigrad scheduled for around 15:00 (3:00 PM).
Where exactly does the boat excursion from Starigrad depart from?
The boat excursion departs from the harbour in Starigrad Paklenica, directly in front of Pansion Roli. The harbour is easy to find and within walking distance of most accommodation in Starigrad. We recommend arriving at least 10–15 minutes before departure.
Can I book a private Zrmanja boat tour for my group?
Yes! The Barbarinac can be booked as a private Zrmanja boat tour for groups, families, or special occasions. You can also customise the departure time and itinerary to suit your schedule. Contact us directly for private tour availability and pricing.
What happens if the Zrmanja excursion is cancelled due to bad weather?
Your safety is our priority. If the Zrmanja excursion is cancelled due to poor weather conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund. We monitor conditions daily and will notify you as early as possible if any changes are needed.
What should I bring on the Zrmanja boat tour?
We recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a swimsuit and towel, a camera, comfortable clothes, and a small amount of cash for any personal extras such as beer or soft drinks (not included in the price). Don't forget your ID.
How do I get to Starigrad Paklenica for the Zrmanja excursion?
Starigrad Paklenica is located on the Dalmatian coast, approximately 50 km north of Zadar and 130 km north of Split. It is easily reached by car via the A1 motorway or coastal road D8. Please note that transfers to the harbour are not included in the excursion price.
Is there a swimming stop during the Zrmanja boat excursion?
Yes! The Zrmanja boat excursion includes a scheduled swimming stop in the crystal-clear Novigrad Sea. This is one of the highlights of the day — a chance to cool off in a beautiful, secluded bay before returning to the harbor.
How do I book the Zrmanja boat excursion online?
You can book the Zrmanja boat excursion directly through the booking form on this page, by phone, WhatsApp, or email. We will confirm your reservation and provide all details. Contact us at +385 99 288 9408 or excursionszrmanja@gmail.com for any questions.
Meeting Point

Where to Find Us?

Departure Address

Ulica Stipe Busljete 1, 23244 Starigrad Paklenica

Port in front of Pansion Roli (town center)

GPS Coordinates

44.2964° N  ·  15.4411° E

Important Note

Our boat Barbarinac departs every morning at exactly 09:00 AM. We highly recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before (around 08:45 AM) for comfortable boarding. Free parking is available near the port.

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