Private tour to Islands Ugljan, Oljak and Preko from Zadar

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Zadar and explore some of Croatia’s most enchanting islands in style, this private speedboat tour promises a flexible, intimate experience that’s hard to beat. From the moment you set foot on the boat, you’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds, and scents of the Adriatic Sea, with personalized attention from a local skipper who knows these waters inside out.

Two aspects we particularly love about this tour are its flexibility—you can customize your stops based on what you enjoy—and the quality of the guides, who bring a genuine local touch to the trip. The chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and sample fresh local food makes this a memorable way to spend a few hours. However, one thing to consider is that, at four hours, it’s a fairly short trip, so it’s best suited for travelers who want a taste rather than a full-day adventure. Overall, if you’re after a personalized, well-paced island hopping experience with authentic flavor, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience ensures your interests come first.
• Expert local skipper adds insight and personal touches to the trip.
• Includes snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and motion sickness tablets, making it comfortable and hassle-free.
• Short duration of about 4 hours makes it ideal for a quick, relaxing escape.
• Stops at Ugljan, Oljak, and Preko offer a blend of sandy beaches, traditional villages, and scenic walking.
• Excellent reviews and high ratings (5.0/5) reflect consistent satisfaction among travelers.

Exploring the Zadar Islands: An In-Depth Look

What makes this tour special?

The real charm of this private boat trip lies in its intimate approach to island hopping. You’re not part of a large group with a set itinerary—your skipper works with you to tailor the experience. You’ll enjoy the sensation of being on a sleek, modern speedboat that whizzes across the water, giving you a sense of adventure and freedom. The boat is described as comfortable and clean, providing a smooth ride even on slightly choppier seas.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Stop 1: Ugljan Island and Kostanj Beach

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Kostanj sandy beach on Ugljan Island, which is praised for its beauty and tranquility. Here, you’ll have a full hour to swim, sunbathe, or just relax on the boat. This spot is known for being relatively uncrowded, making it perfect for those who want a peaceful dip in the water.

One reviewer loved the way the skipper recommended a local lunch spot in Preko, emphasizing the tour’s personalized nature. The brief stop at Kostanj enables you to enjoy the clear waters and sandy shoreline without feeling rushed.

Stop 2: Oljak Island

Next, you’ll visit Oljak, the smallest permanently inhabited island in the Adriatic, with only 29 residents. Its tiny size (less than half a square kilometer) and traditional Mediterranean charm make it a favorite among travelers wanting an authentic experience. The guide often walks around Oljak’s perimeter, which can be done in about 30 minutes, offering a snapshot of local life and scenery.

Reviewers rave about the personalized touch here—some say the skipper even brought fresh produce from his garden, giving the experience a genuine, local flavor. The highlight is simply walking around the island, soaking in the views, and perhaps snapping a few photos of its simple, rustic beauty.

Stop 3: Preko Village on Ugljan

The final stop is at Preko, a picturesque village on Ugljan Island. Surrounded by lush greenery and olive groves, Preko is a peaceful spot with a charming local vibe. Travelers often spend their time wandering the village, sampling local culinary specialties, or relaxing at waterfront cafes.

Several reviews mention a memorable lunch at Srdela Snack in Kali, just a short trip from Preko, where the skipper ordered a variety of fish for the group to try—highlighting the tour’s focus on authentic local cuisine. This stop is ideal for those who want to experience the traditional way of life on the islands and enjoy fresh seafood.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour includes most essentials for a comfortable day—all fees and taxes, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, a knowledgeable and friendly skipper, motion sickness tablets, and sun protection cream. Alcoholic beverages are also available, adding a relaxed, social element.

The main thing not included is lunch, which allows you the freedom to choose a spot that suits your preferences or dietary needs. Many travelers find the optional lunch at local taverns or seaside cafes to be a highlight, especially given the fresh seafood and relaxed atmosphere.

Practical Details

Meeting Point and Duration

The tour starts at Zadar Boat Tours, located at Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6. It lasts approximately 4 hours—a good length for a quick yet immersive escape to the islands. The activity ends back at the starting point, making logistics simple.

Group Size and Price

This is a private tour for up to 8 people, which makes it perfect for small groups, families, or romantic getaways. At a cost of $550.31 per group, it breaks down to around $69 per person if you’re a full group—an excellent value considering the personalized attention, comfort, and the private nature of the experience.

Booking and Flexibility

Most travelers book this tour 77 days in advance, indicating its popularity. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before, making it a low-risk option if your plans change.

Authentic Experiences & Reviews

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides—Luka and Kristijan are praised for their professional, caring, and personable approach. Many mention how they tailored the trip to their interests, whether that meant swimming at secluded beaches, walking around tiny islands, or sampling local foods.

The quality of the boat and the snorkeling equipment also earns praise, with many noting that the boat was comfortable and the gear was in good condition. Several reviews mention the delicious food and fresh produce—sometimes brought directly from the skipper’s garden—which enhances the “local” feel of the trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private island-hopping trip is ideal for small groups, families, or couples seeking a relaxed yet personalized experience. It’s perfect if you value authenticity, flexibility, and comfort over a larger, more commercial tour. It’s also a great way to see less-visited spots and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Zadar archipelago without feeling rushed.

Travelers looking for snorkeling and swimming will appreciate the equipment provided, along with the chance to explore quiet beaches away from crowds. Those interested in local cuisine will enjoy the tailored recommendations and the opportunity to sample seafood at a local spot.

Final Thoughts

This private speedboat tour to Ugljan, Oljak, and Preko offers a well-rounded, personalized glimpse of Croatia’s beautiful islands. It balances scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and a sense of adventure, all wrapped in a flexible, private package.

While the four-hour length might seem brief, it’s enough to give you a taste of island life—especially with the option to customize your stops and activities. The high praise from past travelers, who emphasize the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and delicious local food, speaks volumes about its quality.

Whether you’re after a relaxing beach day, a scenic walk, or a taste of authentic Croatian seafood, this tour makes a compelling choice. It’s particularly suited for those who value personalized service and local insights, making your Croatian island experience truly memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, providing enough time to visit multiple spots without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, a local and experienced skipper, motion sickness tablets, and sun protection cream are included. Alcoholic beverages are also available.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, the tour is described as customizable according to your preferences, allowing you to focus on swimming, walking, or relaxing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Zadar Boat Tours, located at Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, including families with children. Several reviews mention traveling with a small child and receiving thoughtful, accommodating service.

What is the boat like?
The boat is new, comfortable, and designed for speed and ease of access to the islands.

Are snorkeling gear and water provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment and bottled water are included in the tour.

What about lunch?
Lunch is not included, giving you the freedom to choose a local spot on your own or bring your own snacks.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 77 days ahead, especially in peak season, to secure their preferred date.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a light jacket if you’re sensitive to breezes on the water.

This private boat tour offers a compelling combination of scenic beauty, local flavor, and personalized service—ideal for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Croatia’s islands with the comfort of private guides.