Zadar: Island Luxury Speedboat Tour with Snorkeling

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is a dream for many travelers, and a speedboat tour of nearby islands promises a quick, fun, and scenic escape. This particular trip, offered by BOATUM, has earned a perfect 5-star rating from over 2,300 reviews, making it one of the most popular ways to experience the region’s natural beauty.

While we haven’t personally hopped on this exact vessel, the feedback is glowing, and it’s clear this tour offers a mix of stunning scenery, engaging guides, and value for money.

What we love about it: the variety of stops, the snorkeling opportunities, and the friendly guides.
A potential consideration: it’s a quick four-hour trip, so if you’re after a laid-back, full-day experience, this might feel a bit rushed.
Perfect for: first-time visitors, families, and anyone looking for a lively, well-organized day on the water without breaking the bank.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At just $24 per person, this tour offers extraordinary value considering the highlights included.
• Multiple Stops: Visit three islands, including a surprise hidden gem, with plenty of time for photos, swimming, and exploring.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Local guides and skippers are praised for their friendliness, safety focus, and wealth of information.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Equipment is provided, and reviewers mention memorable underwater encounters.
• Flexible & Small Group: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Unbeatable Views: Expect stunning coastlines, rocky beaches, and classic Mediterranean scenery.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction: What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Imagine setting off from Zadar’s busy harbor on a sleek speedboat, the wind in your hair, and the stunning Croatian coastline whizzing past. This luxury speedboat tour is designed for travelers who want a quick but immersive taste of Croatia’s island life.

What we love about this experience? First, the small group size—limited to 12 people—means everyone gets plenty of attention from guides and skippers. Second, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and multiple swim stops gives you a chance to truly connect with the sea. Lastly, the value for money is hard to beat, especially with the enthusiastic reviews praising guides like Luka and Josef.

That said, remember this is a 4-hour adventure. If you’re hoping for a long, leisurely day, this might feel a bit brisk. But if short, scenic, and activity-packed trips are your thing, this tour could be just right. It’s especially suitable for those who want a lively, well-organized outing with a chance to see a few different islands in a single morning or afternoon.

What You Can Expect on the Tour

Starting Point and Daylight Departure

The meeting point is conveniently located at Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, directly opposite the Foa restaurant. Look for a guide in a white polo—easy to spot—and prepare for a 15-minute sightseeing cruise along the coast.

The boat itself is described as a compact, comfortable vessel, well-maintained with a friendly skipper ready to navigate the waters efficiently. Expect a relaxed start before heading out to the first stop.

Island 1: Oljak

Your first major stop is Oljak, where you’ll enjoy about 80 minutes of free time. Many reviewers mention the great photo opportunities here—craggy cliffs, quiet beaches, and lush greenery.

On this island, activities include walking, a bit of hiking, and swimming. If you’re feeling adventurous, snorkeling gear is ready to go, and the reviews highlight how memorable the underwater scenery can be, with some guides even sharing tips on marine life spotting.

One traveler shared, “The snorkeling stop was great,” emphasizing how the clear waters make for excellent underwater visibility. Plus, there’s usually an opportunity for a quick photo-stop, capturing the dramatic landscape.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Surprise Third Island

After a quick 10-minute cruise, your guide takes you to a hidden gem—a nature-filled island not typically crowded with travelers. This stop lasts about 45 minutes, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing.

Reviewers describe this as a “beautiful place,” perfect for soaking up the sun and marveling at the marine life. Many mention how guides like Josep and Luka are helpful and friendly, sharing interesting facts about the local flora and fauna, which enhances the experience.

Preko: The Last Stop

Your final island is Preko, where you’ll spend about an hour. Here, many enjoy local coffee, browsing shops, and relaxing on the beaches.

The reviews praise the well-timed stops, which balance activity with downtime. You’ll also get a chance to snorkel again or simply stroll around the charming village, often highlighted as a highlight for its picturesque streets and welcoming vibe.

Return Cruise and Final Views

The return journey takes about 20 minutes, giving you a last chance to enjoy the coastline’s beauty and perhaps snap a few final photos. Many comment on the spectacular scenery and the comfortable, fun ride.

The Experience in Detail: Why This Tour Feels Special

Guides and Skipper

Guides like Luka, Josep, and David receive frequent praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. Multiple reviews mention how guides go out of their way to ensure everyone feels safe and well-informed, often sharing local tips and stories.

One traveler mentioned, “Luka was super friendly and knew all the best spots,” highlighting the value of having a guide who is both knowledgeable and personable. The skippers are also noted for their smooth maneuvering and safety, which is reassuring in a small boat setting.

Snorkeling & Swimming

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, making it easy to explore the underwater world. Reviewers consistently mention how clear the water is, allowing for great marine life viewing. The ability to jump off the boat for a swim or snorkel at multiple stops is a big plus, giving everyone a chance to cool off and enjoy the sea.

Scenic Views & Photo Opportunities

You’ll want your camera ready—these islands and coastlines serve up postcard-perfect scenes. Some reviewers mention specific spots, like rocky coves and quiet beaches, ideal for capturing memories or just soaking in the view.

The Hidden Gem

This surprise stop is a standout, often cited as the most beautiful or peaceful part of the trip. Its slightly secretive nature makes it feel exclusive, and many say they wouldn’t have found it on their own. The reviews suggest it’s perfect for wildlife watching or simply enjoying a quiet swim.

Value & Price

At just $24 per person, this tour is considered exceptionally good value. For the price, you get a well-organized trip, multiple stops, snorkeling gear, and expert guides. Several reviewers comment on how this is one of the best deals for a scenic, activity-filled half-day in the area.

The Downside: A Shorter Trip

While many love the fast-paced, activity-rich schedule, some mention it feels a little rushed, especially if you prefer longer, more relaxed days. The tour is just four hours, so if you want to spend more time on each island or include additional activities, you might need a different, longer option.

Practicalities & Tips

• Parking can be tricky; coming by car might be challenging, as the area has limited parking options. Arriving by taxi or public transport is recommended.
• There’s no toilet on the boat, only at the last stop, so plan accordingly.
• Remember to bring sun protection, towels, and drinks—the boat doesn’t supply food or beverages.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, babies under 1, or those over 95, mainly due to boat and activity constraints.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for first-time visitors to Zadar or travelers seeking a short, lively adventure on the water. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling, without spending a whole day at sea.

If you’re after relaxing, full-day excursions or have mobility concerns, you might prefer a more extended or accessible option. But for those wanting value, fun guides, and memorable scenery, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. When considering the price point, the number of stops, the quality of guides, and the positive reviews, this luxury speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to explore Zadar’s nearby islands. Expect a mix of picturesque landscapes, underwater adventures, and friendly company that make for a memorable half-day.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a well-organized, active day that covers key sights, offers snorkeling, and leaves with plenty of photos and stories to share.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, including all stops and cruising time.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, opposite the Foa restaurant, where guides wear white polo shirts for easy identification.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, and many reviewers highlight how helpful and plentiful the equipment is for underwater viewing.

Are there any hidden costs?
Docks fees are not included in the price; expect to pay around 10 EUR per person in cash for all stops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While many reviews mention families enjoying the trip, it’s not suitable for babies under 1 or individuals over 95, mainly due to boat constraints.

Can I bring food and drinks?
No, food and drinks are not provided, so bring your own water, snacks, and sun protection.

Is there a toilet on board?
No, the boat only has toilets at the last stop, so plan accordingly.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, this Zadar speedboat tour offers an authentic, scenic, and lively experience for a fraction of what a full-day trip might cost. With knowledgeable guides, stunning stops, and opportunities for snorkeling and swimming, it’s a great choice for anyone wanting a fun, value-packed day on Croatia’s beautiful coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: