Boat tour from Zadar: Preko Hidden Bay Oljak

If you’re looking to escape the city buzz and enjoy some peaceful moments on the water, this half-day boat tour from Zadar offers just that. Designed for those who love a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and quiet nature, this trip takes you beyond the crowds and into some of Croatia’s most charming coastal spots.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its thoughtful blend of activities—stunning scenery paired with time to relax—and the chance to see some lesser-known parts of the Zadar archipelago without feeling rushed. The inclusion of snorkeling masks and drinks adds a nice touch, making it more than just a boat ride.

However, a possible consideration is the additional port fee of 10 euros per person, which isn’t included in the booked price. While the overall cost might seem reasonable, travelers should factor in this extra expense.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a laid-back pace, love the water, and want to explore iconic Croatian islands without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this tour is a great way to see a slice of Dalmatia from the sea.

Key Points

• Secluded Locations: Discover hidden bays and tiny islands away from tourist crowds.
• Flexible Options: Rent with or without a skipper, giving you control over the journey.
• Authentic Croatian Experience: Visit Preko, a charming Dalmatian village, and the smallest inhabited island, Oljak.
• Relaxing Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in crystal-clear waters.
• Great Value: Includes fuel, a professional skipper, and drinks, with optional boat rental.
• Cultural Touch: Enjoy a brief walk in Preko and take in the panoramic views of the Zadar archipelago.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introducing the Experience

This boat tour from Zadar is a straightforward way to enjoy Dalmatian coastlines without the hassle of logistics. It’s a well-rounded mix of sightseeing, swimming, and simply soaking up the warm Mediterranean sun—perfect for those who want a taste of Croatia’s sea life in a relaxed setting.

Two aspects particularly stand out: the chance to visit Preko, a picturesque village with local charm, and the opportunity to swim in secluded bays that are only accessible by boat. Both highlight the tour’s focus on authentic, peaceful experiences away from tourist hotspots.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the port fee of 10 euros per person, which isn’t included in the main price. If you’re budgeting, plan for this extra expense. Still, many find the overall value worthwhile, especially considering the included drinks, snorkeling masks, and the professionalism of the crew.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a half-day escape—offering a scenic, relaxing experience that’s perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers. It won’t satisfy those looking for a full-day adventure or heavy on cultural commentary, but it’s spot-on for quiet enjoyment and scenic beauty.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point: Obala kneza Branimira 27

The tour begins at the pier in front of a gas station, a convenient and easy-to-find location in Zadar. Boarding typically takes around 4 hours from start to finish, with the timing flexible depending on availability.

First Stop: Preko on Ugljan Island (about 20 minutes by speedboat)

This charming coastal village is your first taste of Dalmatian life. You can stroll along the promenade, sip a coffee by the sea, or request a short trip up to St. Michaels Fortress for panoramic views. The walk here is a gentle introduction and quite scenic, with the chance to see local life unfold.

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Second Stop: Hidden Bay for Swimming and Snorkeling (about 75 minutes)

This is the highlight for many. Accessed only by boat, this secluded bay offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Many reviews mention how these peaceful waters make you feel like you have the whole sea to yourself. Snorkeling masks are provided, and you can explore underwater life away from crowds.

Third Stop: Oljak, the Smallest Inhabited Island (about 1 hour)

The final destination is Oljak, a tiny island covered in pine trees, olive groves, and old stone houses. It’s a quiet, simple place where you can take a short walk, enjoy the views, or just relax without any rush. The views of Zadar from the sea are spectacular from here. The island’s peaceful atmosphere is often praised, with visitors noting that “time truly stands still” on Oljak.

Return Journey

After spending time on Oljak, the boat heads back to the starting point. The total itinerary typically involves a 45-minute ride to Preko, 20-minute trip to Oljak, plus the stop durations—making it a compact but richly rewarding experience.

The Experience on the Water

The speedboat itself is described as clean and comfortable, with a professional skipper leading the way. One review highlights that the captain is “friendly, professional, and full of interesting information,” which adds a personal touch to the journey.

The inclusion of beer and drinks enhances the laid-back mood, allowing you to toast to a day well spent. Since fuel is included in the price, you won’t need to worry about extra costs during the trip—just the port fee on top of the ticket.

What Travelers Say

A typical review states, “everything was perfect,” with the boat being well-maintained and the itinerary well-planned. The focus on hidden bays and avoiding crowds resonates with travelers who value authentic, less commercialized experiences.

How Does It Compare in Value?

Compared to other Croatian island trips, this tour offers a flexible, intimate experience at a reasonable price. The fact that you can rent the boat with or without a skipper gives you control over your adventure—whether you want to steer yourself or let a local expert handle the navigation.

The additional port fee may seem like a minor annoyance but is a standard practice in many tours. Considering the included snorkeling masks, drinks, and the professional crew, many find the overall cost fair and good value for the personalized experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is especially suited for relaxed travelers who enjoy being on the water, exploring small islands, and swimming in pristine waters. It’s an excellent choice for families, couples, or solo adventurers wanting a quiet, scenic escape.

If you’re after an action-packed day or cultural tours with detailed history, you might find this experience a bit light. But for those craving genuine peace, beautiful views, and a taste of local life, it’s an ideal fit.

The Sum Up

This half-day boat tour from Zadar provides an inviting blend of scenic beauty, swimming, and local charm. It’s perfect for those who want to unwind, discover hidden spots, and enjoy the calm of the Croatian sea. The stops at Preko, Hidden Bay, and Oljak offer a variety of experiences that showcase Dalmatia’s natural and cultural gems without the crowds.

The inclusion of drinks, snorkeling masks, and a professional skipper makes it a practical, well-organized outing. The optional boat rental gives added flexibility if you want to explore on your own, though many travelers appreciate the guided structure.

This tour offers a great balance of value, scenery, and authentic relaxation—ideal for anyone looking to add a splash of sea adventure to their Zadar trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, but check availability for specific starting times that suit your schedule.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the pier in front of the INA gas station in Zadar and returns to the same location.

Are drinks included?
Yes, beer and other drinks are included in the price, adding to the relaxed atmosphere onboard.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Snorkeling masks are available for use during the stops, so you can explore underwater life comfortably.

What about the port fee?
The port fee of 10 euros per person is not included in the ticket price and must be paid separately.

Can I rent the boat without a skipper?
Yes, you have the option to rent the boat with or without a skipper, depending on your comfort level and experience.

This boat tour from Zadar is an excellent way to experience Croatia’s coast in a laid-back, authentic style. Whether you’re seeking peaceful swimming spots, scenic island views, or a gentle adventure, it offers a well-rounded and enjoyable escape from the usual tourist hustle.

You can check availability for your dates here: