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

Travelers visiting Zadar often seek a way to escape the bustling streets of the Old Town and experience the Dalmatian coast from a different perspective. This 3-island speedboat tour offers just that—combining scenic cruising, authentic island visits, and a healthy dose of relaxation with drinks in hand. With stellar reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5 from 224 travelers, it’s clear this is a well-loved option for those looking to blend adventure and leisure.

What we love about this experience is how smoothly it balances highlighting Croatia’s natural beauty with providing moments of casual indulgence—think crystal-clear snorkeling waters and refreshing gin & tonic at just the right stops. A potential consideration? The docking fee of €10 per person is paid on-site, so budget that into your planning. Otherwise, this tour suits travelers who enjoy small-group atmospheres, scenic boat rides, and authentic island vibes—perfect for couples, solo travelers, or small groups eager to see a different side of Zadar.

Key Points

• Authentic Dalmatian Coastal Experience: Enjoy a scenic speedboat ride with a local skipper, exploring the beautiful coastline and small islands.
• Diverse Island Stops: Visit Kostanj Bay, the historic island Osljak, and lively Preko, each offering unique sights, history, and photo opportunities.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Clear waters at Kostanj Bay and Preko give plenty of chances to cool off and see underwater life.
• Relaxation with Drinks: Sip on unlimited wine, two gin & tonics, and soft drinks, making the trip feel more like a leisurely outing than a tour.
• Small Group Vibe: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention.
• Value for Money: At just $27 per person, the combination of scenery, drinks, snorkeling, and local guides offers compelling value.

Setting the Scene

This tour begins in Zadar’s city center at Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, where you’ll meet a small group of fellow travelers and your friendly local skipper. It’s wise to arrive 10 minutes early—note that there’s no toilet at the meeting point, so plan to use facilities beforehand.

The boat itself is modern and comfortable, designed for small groups (limited to 12). The ride out of Zadar is quick—about 15 minutes—giving you more time to enjoy the surroundings rather than sitting in transit.

First Stop: Kostanj Bay

The first major highlight is Kostanj Bay, often described as a hidden gem. The water here is famously clear, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or just soaking up the sun on the boat’s deck. Around 40 minutes are allocated for this stop, which offers enough time to explore the underwater world or relax in the tranquil surroundings.

Reviewers frequently mention how the scenic views and crystal waters make this a memorable part of the trip. Micha from Poland noted, “Very enjoyable trip. Great views. Cool space for swimming.” The stop’s seclusion creates a peaceful atmosphere, far from the crowds of the town.

Second Stop: Osljak Island

Next, the boat heads to the smallest inhabited Croatian island—Osljak. With only 29 residents, this place is a slice of slow-paced island life. The island’s traditional Mediterranean architecture and historic sites like the IX-century church and WWII hospital ruins give it a timeless feel. If you’re into history or just want a peek into local life, this stop won’t disappoint.

You can climb a small hill for spectacular views or walk along the shore. The island’s quirkiest feature? Most locals share the same last name, a fun fact for those who love a bit of local color. There’s also a bar—ideal for a quick drink—and some travelers might choose to explore or relax here.

Third Stop: Preko Village

The final island stop is on Preko, a lively summer hub. It’s the perfect place to stroll, browse local shops, or dip into a small sandy beach. The 1.5-hour window gives enough time for a coffee with a seaside view, a quick shopping spree, or snorkeling again. Some travelers even swim to Galevac, a nearby tiny island with a monastery, adding a bit of adventure.

Andreea from Denmark appreciated the friendly guide Mario, noting that “the scenery and atmosphere were really nice on the boat,” and Klaudia from Poland called Marco “the best,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide to enhance the experience.

Return Journey & Final Views

As the tour wraps up, the boat sails back toward Zadar, offering scenic glimpses of the coastline. Many reviews highlight how the last views of the Old Town and the sail back create a fitting finale. The entire trip lasts between 2 to 4 hours—perfectly suited for a half-day escape that won’t eat up your entire afternoon.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included & What’s Not

For just $27, the tour includes a modern speedboat ride with a local skipper, petrol, two gin & tonics, unlimited wine, water, or soft drinks, and snorkeling gear. The small-group setting ensures a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention.

However, there’s a €10 docking fee per person paid in cash on arrival—covering all stops. It’s also worth noting that lunch, hotel transfers, and towels are not included, so pack snacks or a towel if you plan to swim often. No toilets are available at the meeting point, so plan accordingly.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

The consistent praise for knowledgeable guides like Tony, Mario, and Roko echoes through reviews. Many describe the guides as friendly, helpful, and informative, elevating an already beautiful trip.

Snorkeling and swimming are often highlighted as the main highlights. Several reviewers rave about the crystal waters at Kostanj Bay and the chance to swim in uncrowded spots. One German reviewer, Erik, even mentioned that their guide Gogo went out of his way to show them the Sea Organ at night—a perfect example of how guides can make the trip special.

The drinks are another big plus. Multiple reviews mention the generous supply of wine and gin & tonic, making the trip feel like a relaxed social outing. The small group size and informal vibe are frequently appreciated, making it easier to chat and make friends from around the world.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Arrive early to ensure a smooth start; parking in Zadar can be tricky in summer.
• Bring a towel and sunscreen—there’s no towels provided, and the sun can be intense.
• Consider snorkeling gear if you want more underwater exploration beyond what’s supplied.
• Budget that €10 docking fee in cash, as it’s paid on arrival.
• If you’re short on time, ask about the duration options—this trip can run from 2 to 4 hours.
• Book in advance since the small group size means spots fill quickly.
• Bring a camera or smartphone—the scenery and island architecture are worth capturing.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate scenic boat rides paired with authentic local experiences. It suits travelers who enjoy snorkeling, small-group environments, and relaxed leisure with drinks in hand. If you’re interested in a mix of history and nature, the island stops offer a glimpse of both.

It’s also perfect for budget-conscious travelers—at just $27, you get a solid half-day of exploring, swimming, and socializing. However, if you prefer a more structured or lengthy tour with meals included, you might want to look elsewhere.

This 3-island speedboat tour from Zadar provides a well-balanced mix of scenic cruising, historic island exploration, and leisurely snorkeling—all wrapped in a small-group setting with excellent guides. The inclusion of drinks and the chance to see the Dalmatian coast from the water make it an experience that many travelers find both fun and memorable.

The combination of value, authentic scenery, and friendly guides makes it stand out among other tours. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group of friends, this tour promises a taste of Dalmatia’s charm that’s both relaxed and engaging.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts between 2 and 4 hours, depending on availability and how long you spend at each stop.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the speedboat ride, a local skipper, petrol, two gin & tonics, unlimited wine/water/soft drinks, and snorkeling equipment.

Is there an additional fee I should know about?
Yes, there’s a €10 per person docking fee paid on arrival, covering all stops.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling equipment is provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

Are towels provided?
No, towels are not included, so bring your own if you want to dry off after swimming.

Can I swim at each stop?
Yes, each stop allows time for swimming and snorkeling; Kostanj Bay and Preko are popular spots for underwater exploration.

Is there a toilet at the meeting point?
No, there isn’t a toilet at the meeting point, so plan accordingly.

What kind of group size should I expect?
The tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate experience with plenty of space and attention from the guide.

This Zadar speedboat tour offers a straightforward, fun way to enjoy Croatia’s coast—perfect for those who want scenic beauty, local history, and a few drinks on the side. It’s an experience that tends to leave travelers with lasting memories and plenty of stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: