Zadar: 3 Island Speedboat Tour with Gin & Tonic and Wine

This speedboat adventure from Zadar promises a mix of breathtaking scenery, fun exploration, and relaxing beach downtime—all wrapped up in a small-group experience. While it’s a quick ride, the tour offers enough variety to keep everyone engaged, whether you’re into history, nature, or just soaking up the sun with a drink in hand.

What we love about this tour is the personal touch, with knowledgeable guides making sure everyone feels safe and included. Plus, the crystal-clear waters at Kostanj Bay are perfect for snorkelers, and the laid-back island stops offer a glimpse of traditional Croatian island life. The included drinks, especially the ice-cold G&T and unlimited wine, add a layer of indulgence that many travelers appreciate.

One possible consideration is the timing and pace—if you’re after a longer, more leisurely day, this might feel a bit quick. Still, for those seeking a fun, scenic, value-packed trip with lots of photo opportunities, this tour hits the right notes.

This tour suits travelers who want a short but meaningful escape from city life, enjoy water activities, and love local, authentic vibes. Whether you’re honeymooning, traveling with friends, or solo, it’s a fantastic way to see the coast from a new perspective.

Good To Know

• Small-group experience ensures personalized service and better interaction with guides.
• Stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters make for perfect photo ops and memorable swims.
• Expert local skippers provide engaging commentary and ensure safety during the trip.
• Variety of stops offers historical sites, traditional villages, beaches, and snorkeling spots.
• Inclusion of drinks like G&T and unlimited wine enhance the relaxing atmosphere.
• Affordable price point offers high value for the short duration and rich experiences.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Zadar 3 Island Speedboat Tour

An Overview of What to Expect

This 2 to 4-hour tour is designed to give a snapshot of Zadar’s stunning coast, infused with fun, discovery, and relaxation. It’s ideal for travelers short on time but craving a rich taste of island life and Croatian scenery. Led by a local skipper, the tour caters to small groups—up to 12 participants—ensuring a friendly, intimate vibe.

You’ll start from the central Zadar meeting point, with a quick 15-minute boat ride to your first stop, offering the perfect blend of scenic views and anticipation. Every aspect is organized for comfort and ease, from snorkeling gear to drinks, and the guides are praised for their knowledge—adding context and stories that make the experience more meaningful.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Starting Point and Departure:
You’ll meet at Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, about 10 minutes before departure. Keep in mind, parking can be tricky in summer, so plan accordingly. The group boards a modern speedboat, ready to ferry you across the blue waters.

2. First Stop: Kostanj Bay
After a quick 15-minute ride, you arrive at Kostanj, a hidden gem with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Guests frequently mention the scenic views and the pleasure of cooling off in the fresh sea. Expect about 40 minutes here, enough for a swim, sunbathe, or take photos of the rugged coastline. Many reviewers appreciate the relaxed vibe and the chance to dive into the inviting water.

3. Second Stop: Island Osljak
Next, the boat takes you to Osljak, the smallest inhabited Croatian island, with just 29 residents. Here, you can explore traditional Mediterranean architecture, climb a small hill for panoramic views, or visit a IX-century church tucked away in the trees. The island also features ruins of a WWII hospital, adding a quiet historical touch.

Guests have noted how the local atmosphere of Osljak provides a peaceful break from busier tourist spots, making it ideal for a leisurely walk and photo stops. The quaint bar offers a chance to enjoy that classic Croatian coffee or drink.

4. Third Stop: Island Preko
A short boat ride away is Preko, a lively summer destination. This town features small shops, cafes with sea views, and a small sandy beach, which is perfect for snorkeling and cooling down. Reviewers love the vibrant local atmosphere, and many take the opportunity to explore the nearby Galevac, a small island with an ancient monastery—an adventure for those keen on small-scale exploration.

5. Return Journey & Scenic Views
After the island-hopping, the boat heads back toward Zadar, giving you one last chance to enjoy spectacular coastal views from the water. As the boat glides back, you can reflect on the day’s highlights—stunning scenery, historical sites, and fun water activities—all while sipping your G&T or unlimited wine.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour offers a lot of value for $27 per person. It includes a modern speedboat ride, local skipper, snorkeling equipment, and drinks—two G&Ts (one at each stop), plus unlimited wine, water, or soft drinks.

Note that a €10 docking fee per person is paid on arrival, covering all stops. Remember, lunch, towels, and hotel transfers are extra, so bring your own towels and consider packing a light snack if you need more sustenance.

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Guides and Reviews: Authentic Experiences

Based on reviews from hundreds of travelers, the guides and skippers stand out as a primary reason for the tour’s high ratings (4.9/5). Guests frequently mention friendly, knowledgeable guides like Mario, Tony, and Gogo, who go above and beyond—sharing stories, ensuring safety, and even showing the Sea Organ at night for those interested.

Reviewers also appreciate the well-organized logistics, despite some noting that the pre-arranged boat assignments can cause minor initial confusion. The guides’ patience and friendliness shine through, making the experience feel personal rather than generic.

Snorkeling & Water Activities

The crystal-clear waters at Kostanj Bay often steal the show. Guests report excellent snorkeling conditions, with clear visibility and lots of marine life. Equipment is provided, and the 40-minute stop gives ample time to cool off and explore underwater.

For those who prefer lounging, sunbathing on the boat or island beaches is an equally appealing option. The relaxed pace means you can spend as much or as little time underwater as you wish.

Authentic Croatian Island Vibe

The stops on Osljak and Preko offer a taste of local life. Osljak, with its traditional architecture and IX-century church, provides a quiet contrast to the lively summer scene at Preko, where local shops and cafes buzz with activity. Many reviews mention the charm of exploring small islands, especially when you can walk, climb for views, or simply soak up the slow pace of island living.

Drinks, Atmosphere, and Overall Vibe

The inclusion of G&T and unlimited wine enriches the experience. Reviewers often describe the boat as friendly and lively, with good music, a chill vibe, and plenty of opportunities for socializing. Many mention guides like Tony and Mario as fun, engaging, and knowledgeable, adding personality and local insights to the trip.

Value for Money

Considering the price point of $27, the trip offers great value, especially when you factor in the high-quality guides, scenic stops, snorkeling gear, and drinks. The small group size ensures a more intimate, less rushed experience, which many travelers find enhances the overall enjoyment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This speedboat tour is perfect for short-term visitors wanting a quick taste of Croatian island life without committing a whole day. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate scenic beauty, historical sites, and water activities.

Those seeking a relaxed pace with opportunities to swim and explore will find it appealing, especially with the inclusion of drinks and friendly guides. It’s a practical choice for travelers on a budget who want a well-organized, fun, and authentic experience.

Final Thoughts

The Zadar 3 Island Speedboat Tour combines stunning scenery, historical intrigue, and leisure in one compact package. The expert guides, crystal waters, and local vibe make it a memorable way to experience Croatia’s coast. If you’re after a value-packed, lively trip that balances adventure with relaxation, this tour hits the sweet spot.

While it’s a somewhat fast-paced experience, the small group size and inclusive drinks help create a friendly, personalized atmosphere. It’s well-suited for those who want to see multiple spots, snorkel in clear waters, and enjoy local flavors without spending a fortune or dedicating the entire day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and pace.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a modern speedboat ride, a local guide, snorkeling equipment, and drinks—including two G&Ts and unlimited wine, water, or soft drinks.

Is there any extra fee?
Yes, there is a €10 docking fee per person paid in cash on arrival, covering all stops.

Are food and towels provided?
No, lunch and towels are not included, so plan to bring your own if needed.

Can I swim and snorkel during the stops?
Absolutely; the stops are designed for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the islands.

Is it suitable for kids or non-swimmers?
While many reviews mention the guides’ attentiveness to less confident swimmers, always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

To sum it up, the Zadar: 3 Island Speedboat Tour offers a lively, scenic escape that balances fun, history, and relaxation. Perfect for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Croatia’s coastline at a very reasonable price, with friendly guides ensuring a smooth experience. Whether you’re into snorkeling, island exploring, or simply enjoying a drink with great company, this tour is a tempting option to add to your Croatian itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: