How long is the ferry from Zadar to Dugi Otok?

The Jadrolinija car ferry to Brbinj takes roughly 1.5 hours; faster services take about 1 hour. Times vary by sailing type and season.

Which port does the ferry arrive at on Dugi Otok?

Most ferries from Zadar arrive at Brbinj, on the eastern side of the island. Bozava is another ferry port on Dugi Otok, reached by alternative sailings.

Should I take a car to Dugi Otok?

If you want to explore the full length of the island — including the Telašćica nature park at the southern end — a car is useful. The island is about 44 km long with a single main road.

Zadar to Dugi Otok Ferry

Zadar → Dugi Otok (Brbinj)

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High-speed crossing: ~1 h
Conventional crossing: ~1.5 h
Frequency: 2–3 daily in summer; 1–2 in winter
Carries cars: Yes (on the car ferry)

Jadrolinija

Crossing times and frequency are typical ranges and vary by season and operator. Check the operator or Direct Ferries for current sailings before booking.

The crossing

Jadrolinija's car ferry connects Zadar's Gaženica terminal with Brbinj on Dugi Otok's eastern coast in approximately 1–1.5 hours. Dugi Otok — literally "Long Island" — is the largest island in the Zadar archipelago, stretching 44 km from north to south. Most visitors arrive at Brbinj; some sailings also serve Božava, further north.

What to see on Dugi Otok

The island's two headline attractions are at opposite ends. In the south, the Telašćica nature park encompasses a dramatic bay, salt lake and the sheer cliffs of Stene that drop 160 m into the Adriatic — one of the most impressive landscapes in Croatia. In the north, Sakarun beach is a rare stretch of white sand and shallow turquoise water, often called one of the most beautiful beaches in the Adriatic.

Exploring the island

The island has a single main road running most of its length, making a car genuinely useful. Without one, the village of Sali (the island's largest settlement, near the Telašćica park entrance) and the area around Bozava are accessible by foot or bicycle, but the distances between sites are long.

Planning tips

Dugi Otok is quieter than the Split or Dubrovnik region islands, but summer still brings steady demand for ferry crossings. Jadrolinija's schedule is the island's lifeline — check current timetables before travelling, as winter frequency drops significantly.

Ports & terminals

ZadarView on map →

Frequently asked questions

How long is the ferry from Zadar to Dugi Otok?: The Jadrolinija car ferry to Brbinj takes roughly 1.5 hours; faster services take about 1 hour. Times vary by sailing type and season.
Which port does the ferry arrive at on Dugi Otok?: Most ferries from Zadar arrive at Brbinj, on the eastern side of the island. Bozava is another ferry port on Dugi Otok, reached by alternative sailings.
Should I take a car to Dugi Otok?: If you want to explore the full length of the island — including the Telašćica nature park at the southern end — a car is useful. The island is about 44 km long with a single main road.