half day group speedboat tour of the islands around Zadar

Embarking on a half-day group speedboat tour around Zadar promises a lively and scenic experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and a touch of Croatian charm. This tour, rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5 from over 200 reviews, offers a fantastic way to see the nearby islands without breaking the bank — just $26 per person.

We love that this trip is flexible and intimate, with knowledgeable skippers like Lovro and Luka who genuinely seem to enjoy sharing their beloved Adriatic. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment, the chance to visit secluded beaches, and the option to enjoy homemade liqueurs make this outing both fun and memorable.

One thing to consider is that the tour is suited for those comfortable swimming and confident in water, as some stops involve snorkeling and diving in open sea conditions. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a taste of island life, water fun, and local hospitality in a manageable half-day window. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic experience with friendly guides, this trip is likely to tick all your boxes.

Good To Know

• Ideal for Water Lovers: Snorkeling gear and swimming stops in crystal-clear waters offer plenty of underwater adventures.
• Small Group Feel: With groups typically around 6-12 people, there’s a personal touch and space to relax.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Luka and Lovro make the experience engaging with their local knowledge and friendly attitude.
• Affordable Value: At just $26, this tour provides a lot of fun, scenic beauty, and swimming for the price.
• Flexible and Easy: Book with pay-later options, cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and enjoy a smooth, well-organized trip.
• Unforgettable Sunsets: The late afternoon tour offers stunning views, and some reviews mention dolphin sightings on the return trip.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Speedboat Tour Experience

The Itinerary and Stops

This half-day tour kicks off near a local gas station, making it easy to find and convenient to start your adventure. Led by skippers Sarah and Lovro, the trip usually heads to Ugljan Island, one of the most beautiful and accessible spots in the area. Expect to spend the morning exploring three carefully chosen snorkeling sites, each offering a different perspective of the underwater world.

What makes these stops special? Reviewers note that the underwater scenery is vibrant, with plenty of colorful fish and interesting marine life. As Rachel from the reviews points out, “Our skipper Lovro was very knowledgeable and personable,” which made the snorkeling experience both informative and fun. The underwater rocks and coves provide perfect hiding spots for marine creatures, and the snorkeling gear included makes it easy to jump right in.

The Beaches and Islands

After snorkeling, your group can relax on secluded beaches or enjoy sunbathing on quiet shores. The boat’s flexible schedule allows for ample time at each stop, ensuring you don’t feel rushed. Andrea appreciated Luka’s thoughtfulness and the beautiful scenery, saying, “We really enjoyed our trip in a small group.” The small-group nature of the tour means you’ll generally have enough space to relax, and guides often share local tips and personal stories that add a genuine touch.

The Food and Drinks

One of the tour’s charming features is the hospitality. You’ll have access to water, ice tea, and homemade liqueurs — a delightful local touch. Lisa highlights this with her comment, “The two shots of homemade liquor was an excellent touch.” It’s a great way to cool off or toast the day, especially while soaking in the views of the islands and sea.

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The Return and Sunset Views

The tour usually concludes around midday, but many travelers opt to join the sunset version later in the afternoon. As Viktoria mentions, “The best view for sunset from the water,” and the boat ride back offers spectacular vistas, especially if you’re lucky enough to spot dolphins, as one reviewer did. The combination of gentle sea breezes, stunning horizon, and the fading sun makes for an unforgettable ending.

The Guides and Atmosphere

From Luka to Lovro, guides are consistently praised for their friendliness, local knowledge, and willingness to go the extra mile. Nadja commends Luca as a “great skipper,” and Claire emphasizes Luca’s effort to make everyone comfortable, even extending the trip at no extra cost. The guides’ genuine enthusiasm helps create a relaxed, enjoyable vibe that many say feels like a trip with friends rather than a formal tour.

Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately half a day, starting near a gas station for easy access and ending back at the same point. The group size is kept small to enhance intimacy and safety. The price of $26 per person is very reasonable considering the included snorkeling gear, drinks, and the personalized nature of the experience.

What to bring? Pack a hat, towel, water shoes, and cash for the docking fee (about 10 EUR for adults). Since bikes aren’t allowed, plan your transport accordingly. The tour is unsuitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or those over 95, but most other water lovers will find it perfect.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Island Exploration

Many reviewers highlight how this trip offers genuine access to beautiful, less crowded islands. Andrea loved visiting Preko, a charming village with local cafes, and Lisa appreciated the opportunity to see “marvellous islands” without the crowds often found on larger cruise options.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

With snorkeling gear provided and several stops, the experience feels like a mini marine adventure. Participants frequently mention seeing a variety of fish and marine creatures, making it ideal for anyone who loves underwater life. Sanderve1, a guide with a background as a maritime biologist, appreciated the opportunity to discuss sea life with the guides.

Flexibility and Personal Touch

Many reviews point out that the operators are flexible, especially if the weather turns bad. Luka’s thoughtful approach, including taking pictures and sending them afterward, adds a layer of personal care that travelers love. Whether it’s sharing local restaurant recommendations or adjusting plans, the guides seem committed to making your trip special.

Value for Money

While the ticket price is modest, the experience offers a lot — snorkeling, scenic views, good company, and local drinks. Daisy emphasizes this by saying, “The skipper was very welcoming and gave us a variety of drinks,” which enhances the overall value.

Sunset and Dolphin Sightings

A special highlight is the possibility of catching a sunset from the water, which many reviews mention as breathtaking. The return journey sometimes offers dolphin sightings, adding an element of surprise and magic to the trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy water-based activities like swimming and snorkeling but prefer a shorter, more relaxed outing rather than a full-day excursion. Its small-group setting and friendly guides make it suitable for those seeking intimacy and personalized attention.

It’s particularly great for couples, small groups, or families with older children confident in water. If you’re seeking a budget-friendly way to explore some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands and enjoy local hospitality, this tour offers excellent value.

However, travelers with young children under 2, pregnant women, or seniors over 95 should consider other options, as the trip involves water activity and open sea conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately half a day, typically ending around midday if you choose the morning trip.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, the boat tour, skippers, life jackets, water, ice tea, and homemade liqueurs are included. You’ll just need to bring cash for the docking fee and extras.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a docking fee of about 10 EUR for adults (5 EUR for children up to 11 years old) is payable at the meeting point.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 2, but older kids who are confident swimmers will likely enjoy the snorkeling and water stops.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case of bad weather.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a hat, towel, water shoes, cash, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone. Remember, bikes are not allowed on the boat.

Is it possible to do the sunset tour?
Yes, many travelers opt for the sunset version, which offers stunning views and a more relaxed, romantic atmosphere.

This half-day speedboat trip around Zadar’s islands provides an affordable, intimate, and active way to experience Croatia’s stunning waters. With knowledgeable guides, plenty of snorkeling opportunities, and a relaxed pace, it’s perfect for those wanting a taste of island life without committing a full day or spending a lot.

The small group size, friendly atmosphere, and the chance to enjoy local drinks make it feel more like a trip with friends than a typical tour. If you love the idea of swimming in crystal waters, exploring quaint villages, and catching unforgettable sunsets, this experience is a fantastic choice.

Most importantly, it offers a genuine slice of Croatian coastal life—something that’s often hard to find on larger, more commercialized excursions. Whether you’re visiting Zadar for a few days or simply seeking a memorable water adventure, this tour delivers a mix of fun, beauty, and authenticity that travelers cherish.

Note: Always check current availability and weather conditions, and book in advance to secure your spot in this popular tour.

You can check if your dates are available here: