Zadar: 3-Island Speedboat Tour with Snorkeling and Drinks

If you’re visiting Zadar and craving a quick yet immersive escape to explore Croatia’s stunning islands, this speedboat tour might just be your ticket to azure waters, hidden gems, and unforgettable memories. Trusted by hundreds of travelers, this tour combines fun, exploration, and relaxation in a compact 4-hour package.

What we love about this experience is the small group size that keeps things intimate and flexible, the knowledgeable guides who share local stories and tips, and the unlimited drinks that keep the mood lively. However, a potential consideration is that the tour involves multiple stops and swimming, which might not suit those with mobility issues or very young children.

This tour is best suited for those looking to pack a lot of charm and adventure into a short time frame—families, solo travelers, and groups of friends will all find something to love here.

Good To Know

• Excellent Value: For $34, you get a comprehensive island-hopping experience with snorkeling, drinks, and guided insights.
• Flexible and Well-Organized: The itinerary balances exploration, swimming, and free time effectively.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides, like Josip and Luka, make the experience more memorable.
• Stunning Locations: You visit Oljak, Preko, and a surprise hidden island, each offering unique scenery.
• Great for Photographers: Plenty of photo stops and beautiful vistas, plus an underwater camera included.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 12) foster a more personalized and relaxed environment.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This speedboat adventure kicks off at a convenient meeting point opposite the Foa restaurant in Zadar, with guides easily recognizable by their red hats. The tour lasts about four hours, during which you’ll explore three islands, swim, snorkel, and learn about the local area.

The boat itself is modern and well-maintained—an important detail for those concerned about safety. The group size is capped at 12, ensuring a more personalized experience, and the skipper, Luka or Josip, keeps the pace lively and informative.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Start at the Meeting Point

You gather at the designated spot, ready to set sail. The initial cruise offers a quick overview of the coastline and gets everyone excited for the day ahead.

Stop 1: Oljak

Our first real stop is Oljak, known for its scenic natural beauty. Here, you’ll have around 80 minutes to hike, take photos, swim, or snorkel. Reviewers like Sophie noted the helpfulness of guides like Josip, who provided tips to maximize your time exploring and snapping shots. Expect to find a quiet, inviting beach, perfect for a relaxed swim or a quick walk along the coast.

Stop 2: Hidden Gem

Next, you’ll visit a “surprise” island, which reviewers describe as a “hidden gem” with crystal-clear waters. You’ll get about 45 minutes to snorkel and soak up marine life—many mentioned how the underwater equipment made exploring easy and fun. This stop is often the highlight for those who love discovering less touristy spots.

Stop 3: Preko

The last main island stop is Preko, where you’ll have a full hour for a mix of activities—shopping, grabbing a coffee, or simply lounging by the water. Reviewers like Jana mention the perfect balance of exploring and relaxing, with Luka sharing local restaurant suggestions for authentic Croatian cuisine.

Cruising Between Stops

Throughout the journey, the boat cruise offers short sightseeing passages—about 10 to 20 minutes each—giving you scenic views and a chance to relax and chat.

Snorkeling & Marine Life

All snorkeling gear is provided, and reviewers like Fatima appreciate the ease of use. This is a fantastic opportunity to see marine life in its natural habitat, especially with the underwater camera included in the package, which captures moments you might otherwise miss.

Drinks & Atmosphere

Unlimited local alcoholic drinks and water are available on board, adding a carefree vibe. Many reviewers like Maya and Kyselova appreciated the friendly guides, especially Josef, who made sure everyone stayed hydrated and entertained, often sharing local recommendations and stories along the way. The music, combined with the lively atmosphere, makes this more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a mini party on the water.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Experience with Guides

Working with guides like Josip, Luka, and Josef clearly enhances the tour. They are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness, often going beyond just navigation by sharing interesting facts and local tips. Yasin sums it up, saying, “Josef is the best guide,” and many reviewers mention how their guides made the experience informative and fun.

The guides also help with practicalities like snorkeling tips, photo-taking, and restaurant suggestions, often tailoring the experience based on guests’ interests.

Pricing & Value: Does It Make Sense?

At $34 per person, the tour offers a remarkable value considering the included activities—snorkeling gear, an underwater camera, unlimited drinks, and guided exploration. A couple of reviewers pointed out that it was “worth every penny,” especially given the quality of the locations visited and the friendly service.

However, there’s a small docking fee of 10 EUR per adult and 5 EUR per child, payable at the stops, which is typical for such tours but worth factoring in when planning your budget.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Bring a sun hat and towel—the Croatian sun can be strong, and you’ll spend plenty of time outdoors.
• Wear comfortable swimwear and reef-friendly sun cream for protection.
• Arrive a little early at the meeting point for a smooth start.
• If you want to capture your adventure, the underwater camera is included, but bringing your own waterproof device is optional.
• Keep in mind the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, babies under 1 year, or those over 95, due to the physical nature of the stops and boat access.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a small-group, well-organized trip that offers both adventure and relaxation, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for travelers eager to explore multiple islands without the fuss of full-day commitments, and those who love snorkeling, swimming, and scenic views. The friendly guides and the opportunity for free time mean it’s perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families with slightly older children.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with starting times depending on availability.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Croatian, Serbian, and Bosnian.

Is it suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year old or individuals with mobility challenges.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited local alcoholic drinks and water are provided throughout the trip.

What should I bring?
A sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and a camera. It’s also good to wear swimwear underneath your clothes.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, docking fees of 10 EUR per adult and 5 EUR per child are payable at the stops.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

To sum it up, this speedboat tour in Zadar offers a fantastic mix of scenic island exploration, snorkeling, and lively social atmosphere. It’s a superb choice for travelers wanting an active yet relaxed half-day adventure with knowledgeable guides and great value. Whether you’re after picture-perfect beaches, marine encounters, or just a fun day on the water, this trip ticks many boxes—and leaves you with plenty of stories to tell.

You can check if your dates are available here: