Zadar: SpeedBoat Beach Escape to Islands Snorkeling, Drinks

Traveling to Croatia and looking for a quick, fun escape from the city? This speedboat beach tour from Zadar offers a perfect blend of scenic island hopping, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach—all in just four hours. With a small group size, knowledgeable guides, and crystal-clear waters, it promises an authentic, intimate adventure.

What we love about this tour is its value for money—at just $25 per person, you get a lot of bang for your buck. The friendly skipper, the beautiful stops, and the relaxed vibe make it a standout. However, keep in mind that the trip is quite active, with swimming and walking involved, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable in the water and on their feet. Perfect for anyone craving a quick, scenic getaway or a fun family outing (with some limitations, of course).

Good To Know

• Affordable price at $25 per person, offering excellent value.
• Small group experience limited to 10 people for a personalized vibe.
• Multiple scenic stops including beaches, villages, and the smallest inhabited Croatian island.
• Snorkeling gear included, making underwater exploration accessible.
• Knowledgeable local skipper who shares insights and takes you to exclusive spots.
• Ideal duration of 4 hours, perfect for a half-day adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

If you’re after a quick but memorable trip, this tour hits many high points in just four hours. Departing from Zadar Boat Tours, you’ll hop onto a brand-new speedboat with a friendly crew and a lively atmosphere. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and you’ll get plenty of personal attention.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The trip kicks off with a 15-minute speedboat ride to the first stop, Kostanj beach—a sandy bay on a tiny island. This is your chance to cool off in the calm waters, swim, snorkel, or just relax on the beach. Reviewers mention the scenic views on the way and appreciate the refreshing drinks—beer and water—are included, making the experience even more laid-back.

Next, another 15-minute ride takes you to Oljak, a small island offering a perfect spot for photos, swimming, and snorkeling. Reviewers describe the crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery that make these stops special. You’ll get about 45 minutes here, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

The final stop is the village of Preko on Ugljan Island, where you’ll spend around 75 minutes wandering the streets, enjoying the views, and relaxing at the beach. Many reviews highlight how this is a charming town with shops and local eateries, perfect for a quick lunch or a leisurely walk.

Finally, a 15-minute speedboat ride back wraps up your trip. The entire experience is designed to maximize scenic views and underwater fun without taking up your whole day, making it ideal for those with a busy schedule or wanting a taste of island life.

The Highlights That Make This Tour Stand Out

Discover the Islands of Ugljan, Oljak, and Preko

Each stop on this tour offers something unique. Ugljan is known for its quaint village charm, where you can stroll the narrow streets and soak in local life. Oljak stands out for its small size and pristine waters, perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Kostanj beach on the first island is a sandy haven that’s great for a quick dip.

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Crystal-Clear Waters & Snorkeling

Many reviewers, including those from Germany, Romania, and Lithuania, mention the beautiful, transparent water on the stops—ideal for snorkeling. The tour provides gear, which means you can easily explore the underwater world without extra hassle. One guest even called the snorkeling spots “really cool,” with marine life viewing as a bonus.

Friendly, Knowledgeable Guides

The local skipper is a highlight for many travelers. From detailed explanations of the islands’ features to sharing local stories and tips, guides like Luca and Kristian keep the mood lively and informative. The reviews note that the crew is friendly, professional, and genuinely passionate about the area.

Drinks & Relaxation

Along With the scenic views, the included beer and water add a relaxed vibe. Reviewers say the drinks are well-stocked and appreciated, especially during the warm summer days. The boat’s cooler means you’re never short on refreshment.

Authentic Small-Group Experience

With a maximum of 10 participants, the tour offers a personalized feel that larger cruises can’t match. Guests often mention how this enhances comfort and allows for better interaction with the skipper and fellow travelers.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation & Duration

The tour starts at Zadar Boat Tours, where the skipper will wait with the company logo at the waterfront. The total duration is about four hours, which includes six stops. The speedboat is described as new, clean, and easy to get on and off, making the experience smooth and hassle-free.

Price & Value

At $25 per person, this tour is hard to beat in terms of value. When you consider the snorkeling gear, drinks, and scenic stops, the cost feels justified. It’s a budget-friendly way to explore the islands without sacrificing comfort or experience quality.

What to Bring

Make sure you pack sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or anyone with health or mobility issues, so keep that in mind.

Additional Costs & Tips

There is a fuel surcharge of EUR 10.00 per person not included in the price, which is payable locally. Gratuities are optional but appreciated if you enjoy the experience. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

What Real Travelers Say

From diverse reviews, one clear theme emerges: the guides make a difference. Guests mention Kristian and Luca as friendly and knowledgeable, sharing insights about the islands’ history and local life, which enhances the trip. Many mention how the boat was spotless and the stops well-timed, allowing enough time to relax and explore.

The scenery is consistently praised, with travelers describing the water as turquoise and clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Several reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere on board, with music, drinks, and a cheerful crew creating a party-like mood without losing the relaxed vibe.

Some guests note that the trip feels shorter than four hours, which is a good sign it’s engaging and well-paced. Families with children, especially those accustomed to boat trips, find it a great mix of adventure and relaxation.

Final Thoughts

This Zadar speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to see the nearby islands without committing a full day. The small group size and friendly guides create an intimate, relaxed experience, perfect for anyone looking to explore the Adriatic waters, snorkel, and enjoy some sun and fun.

While not suitable for those with mobility or health issues, it’s an excellent choice for active travelers, families, or anyone craving a quick escape to the sea. The included drinks, snorkeling gear, and scenic stops combine to make it a great value.

Whether you’re after stunning views, underwater exploration, or just a fun boat ride, this tour hits all those marks with a casual, joyful vibe. It’s a wonderful way to make the most of your time near Zadar and leave with plenty of stories—and maybe a tan.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, because snorkeling gear is provided, and you can swim at your own pace. But you should be comfortable in open water, and the tour isn’t recommended for non-swimmers who aren’t confident in the water.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 4 hours, including six stops for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the speedboat tour, snorkeling gear, and drinks (beer and water). There’s a fuel surcharge of EUR 10.00 per person, payable locally.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the boat comfortable and well-maintained?
Yes, reviews mention the boat as brand-new, clean, and easy to get on and off, ensuring a smooth experience.

What should I bring?
Remember sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Also, pack some cash for optional tips or local purchases.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, non-swimmers, or those over 120 kg.

Where do I meet the skipper?
The skipper waits at the waterfront at Zadar Boat Tours with the company logo displayed on the boat.

To sum it up, this speedboat tour in Zadar offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, fun activities, and authentic local charm—all at a very approachable price point. It’s perfect for those wanting a quick, lively, and scenic adventure on Croatia’s stunning coast, especially if you love snorkeling, stunning sea views, and a relaxed, small-group atmosphere.

You can check if your dates are available here: