Zadar: Island Hopping Tour Swim and Snorkel with Drinks

This Zadar island-hopping tour promises a fun-filled day exploring Croatia’s beautiful coastline from the comfort of a boat. Whether you prefer the adrenaline rush of a speedboat or the calm of a traditional wooden vessel, this experience offers a memorable combination of swimming, snorkeling, scenic coastal views, and chilled drinks. With a highly-rated 4.7 out of 5 from over 530 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this trip ticks all the boxes for a perfect half-day escape.

What makes this tour attractive? We’re drawn to the variety of options, the small group vibe, and the chance to enjoy local drinks like Aperol Spritz and Croatian wine. Plus, the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and explore lesser-known islands sounds delightful. A potential drawback? The tour does include a fee for docking (around 10 EUR), and there’s no onboard toilet, so plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers seeking a flexible, authentic experience—whether they’re adventure-lovers who want a quick thrill or laid-back travelers craving scenic downtime. If you’re after a lively, intimate, and scenic day on the water, this is hard to beat.

Good To Know

• Variety of Boat Options: Choose between a speedy, thrill-inducing speedboat or a relaxed, traditional wooden boat.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 14 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
• Multiple Island Stops: Visit three islands with dedicated swim, snorkel, and sightseeing time.
• Inclusive Drinks: Enjoy Aperol Spritz on the speedboat and Croatian wine on the traditional boat.
• Authentic Local Guides: Skippers are knowledgeable, sharing insights about the areas visited.
• Excellent Value: At around $28, you get a mix of adventure, relaxation, scenic views, and drinks in just four hours.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Complete Look at the Experience

The Starting Point and Options

Your adventure kicks off in Zadar Harbour, either from Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira or Ul. Jurja Barakovia. The choice of boat really sets the tone for your day. The speedboat option is perfect if you crave excitement and want to maximize island visits, with a 25-minute high-energy ride between stops. Alternatively, the traditional Dalmatian wooden boat offers a more relaxed cruise, ideal for soaking in views and unwinding in a calmer setting.

The Itinerary and Stops

The tour’s itinerary is designed to give you a taste of the best local spots without feeling rushed. We love the way the stops are spaced out, allowing ample time for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the beach.

• Hidden gem stop: This is described as a peaceful bay with fantastic snorkeling and swimming opportunities. Reviewers highlight how clear the waters are, often mentioning seeing fish and enjoying the fresh sea air. One guest noted, “We met some really nice people on the boat as well, which made the experience even better.”
• Secret stop: This appears to be a highlight, offering sightseeing, walks, and additional swimming. Some travelers mention exploring small villages with stone houses and harbors, giving a real sense of authentic Dalmatian life.
• Final stops: Usually include beach time, opportunity for street food, and a brief shopping stroll. One reviewer appreciated the “short but sweet” last stop, although others wished for a little more time exploring.

What to Expect on Board

Travelers consistently praise the friendly guides, often mentioning the skippers’ local knowledge and their ability to point out interesting facts or hidden spots. We’ve seen reviews where guides like Roco and Mario made the trip special, sharing stories and even letting guests drive the boat for a few seconds—adding a fun, interactive touch.

Music and good vibes are common themes, with many guests noting the onboard atmosphere is lively but cozy. The inclusion of drinks—two Aperol Spritz on the speedboat, two glasses of Croatian wine on the traditional boat—elevates the experience, making it feel more like a relaxed social outing than just a tour.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Snorkeling and Swimming

The waters around Zadar are well-loved for their clarity, and the snorkeling gear provided helps guests get a closer look at the underwater world. While some reviews mention a limited amount of sea life or visibility during snorkeling, most agree that the experience is worth it for the chance to cool off and enjoy the sea.

Guests often swim from the boat or the beach, with some cautioning about rocky bottoms or sea urchins, especially on the first island. It’s wise to wear shoes if you plan to walk around rocky areas and stay close to the boat if swimming.

The Price and Overall Value

At only $28 per person for four hours, this tour offers remarkable value, given the inclusions and personalized experience. The small group size and flexible itinerary mean you get plenty of time at each stop, not a rushed snapshot. The drinks—alcoholic and non-alcoholic—add to the relaxed vibe, while snorkeling gear and safety equipment are included to ensure a safe, enjoyable outing.

The main extra cost is the docking fee (~10 EUR), payable in cash. Reviewers say the fee is reasonable and well worth the overall experience. Some mention the absence of a toilet on the boat but note that this isn’t a deal-breaker for a half-day trip.

The Experience for Different Types of Travelers

Adventure seekers will love the thrill of the speedboat and the chance to explore more remote spots quickly. If you prefer a slower pace, the traditional boat offers a tranquil ride with plenty of time to relax, soak in the scenery, and enjoy a glass of wine. The small group size fosters a cozy environment, perfect for meeting like-minded travelers or enjoying a quiet escape.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those wanting a quick yet authentic taste of Croatia’s islands. It suits singles, couples, and small groups looking for a mix of fun, scenic beauty, and local drinks. It’s especially perfect if you prefer a personal touch with guides who know the area well.

While not suited for wheelchair users or babies under one year, it’s a great option for anyone comfortable on boats and ready to spend a few hours in the sun and sea. If you’re after a lively, small-group adventure with flexible stops and plenty of opportunities to swim and relax, this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children old enough to enjoy swimming and snorkeling will find this trip fun. However, it’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or for wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, change of clothes, beachwear, and cash for the docking fee are recommended.

Is there a restroom on the boat?
No, there isn’t a toilet onboard, so plan accordingly.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary but typically include a swimming/snorkeling session, sightseeing, or exploring small villages. The last stop tends to be around 45 minutes, with other stops around an hour.

What drinks are included?
On the speedboat, you get two Aperol Spritzes per person. On the traditional boat, two glasses of Croatian wine are included. Unlimited water is available throughout.

Can I choose between the speedboat and the traditional boat?
Yes, you can select your preferred boat type when booking. Each offers a different vibe—adventurous or relaxed.

How do I pay for the docking fee?
The fee (~10 EUR per adult) is paid in cash at the end of the tour, before disembarking.

Final Thoughts

For travelers wanting to explore Zadar’s coastline, this island-hopping tour offers a fantastic mix of scenic beauty, fun water activities, and local drinks in a small-group setting. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and authentic stops makes it a standout choice for a half-day adventure.

Whether you prefer bouncing over waves on a speedboat or enjoying a gentle cruise on a classic vessel, you’ll find plenty to love here. The reasonable price ensures you don’t have to splurge to enjoy Croatia’s breathtaking islands, and the positive reviews reflect many happy, relaxed travelers.

In short, this tour is perfect for those looking to make the most of their time in Zadar—balancing activity, relaxation, and authentic local flavor all in a manageable four-hour package.

You can check if your dates are available here: