Zadar: 3 Islands Snorkeling Cruise with Prosecco

Imagine cruising along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast on a traditional Gozzo boat, with sparkling sea all around, anchor points for swimming, and chilled prosecco in hand. That’s what this Zadar: 3 Islands Snorkeling Cruise with Prosecco promises—and generally delivers—making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic, and social adventure in the Zadar archipelago.

We love that this experience combines spectacular views of Zadar’s Old Town, a chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and the simple pleasure of sipping prosecco while soaking up the scenery. Plus, the guides are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, adding a genuine local touch. However, it’s worth noting that this is a short trip—just 3 hours—so if you’re craving more time in the water or a full-day excursion, this might feel a bit brief.

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate a casual, authentic boat experience, enjoy snorkeling or swimming, and want a cost-effective way to explore multiple islands and enjoy some well-earned drinks. Families with kids over 12, couples, or groups of friends looking for a social, scenic escape will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Comfortable, traditional Gozzo boat with scenic views and a relaxed vibe
• Multiple stops at three distinct islands, each offering their own charm
• Snorkeling gear provided for underwater exploration
• Prosecco, water, and fruit included, making it a refreshing treat
• Small group size (limited to 11), ensuring a personalized experience
• Excellent reviews emphasize friendly guides, great value, and stunning scenery

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Journey Along Zadar’s Coast

This cruise offers a practical way to see some of Croatia’s most attractive islands without breaking the bank or spending hours on your feet. Meeting at Foa Harbor, right in Zadar’s Old Town, means it’s easy to find and conveniently located for travelers staying nearby. The boat itself is a stylish, comfortable Gozzo, a traditional style that adds to the charm and gives you authentic Mediterranean vibes.

Once aboard, you’ll set sail along Zadar’s coastline, passing iconic sights and hearing stories about the area’s history. The scenic ride is a highlight, giving you panoramic views of the Old Town’s rooftops, the sea stretching to the horizon, and the islands ahead. It’s a perfect opportunity to snap photos, especially of the spectacular coastline and the boat’s vintage style.

The Stops: Exploring Three Unique Islands

The itinerary includes three main stops: Oljak, a somewhat known but charming island; Ugljan, a popular local spot; and a “secret” island that promises some extra surprises.

Oljak gets about an hour of your time, which is enough to explore, take photos, or enjoy a guided tour. According to reviews, this island offers a nice blend of sightseeing and relaxation, with travelers mentioning they appreciated the well-paced stops and the opportunity for swimming and snorkeling. One traveler exclaimed, “We had more than enough time to swim and snorkel, and the guide explained the islands’ history well,” highlighting the balance between exploration and leisure.

The second stop is a quick 20-minute transfer, giving you a moment to relax and take in the views on the way to the next island. The “secret” stop is about 45 minutes, providing a quieter, scenic spot for swimming and photos, with some reviews noting it’s a “really cute island with a monastery you can swim to,” making it a favorite among those who enjoy exploring little islands on foot or by boat.

Snorkeling and Swimming: Underwater Fun and Comfort

Snorkeling gear is included, specifically full-face masks, which are generally easier for beginners and allow you to breathe naturally while marveling at underwater life. While some reviews mention that fish sightings and colors might not be as vibrant as hoped, most agree the cool water on hot days compensates for that. One traveler said, “The snorkeling was not impressive fish-wise, but the water was really cool and refreshing,” which sums up the typical experience.

The water activities are flexible—whether you prefer to just relax on the boat’s sunbathing area, take a dip, or snorkel around the islands, there’s enough time for all. The scenic swimming stops are complemented by the ice-cold prosecco served by the crew, a simple but well-loved touch that turns a regular boat trip into a memorable social occasion.

The Beverage and Food Offerings

An important highlight is the inclusion of ice-cold prosecco and water, which travelers often mention as a highlight. The local guides are attentive and keep the drinks flowing, which enhances the relaxed, celebratory atmosphere. One reviewer noted, “The drinks and fruit on board made it feel like a special treat,” emphasizing the value of the included refreshments.

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The Crew and Guides: Local Knowledge and Friendliness

Reviews consistently praise the friendly guides—some mention they are not just skippers but also local storytellers who share interesting facts about the islands and Zadar’s history. The small group size (up to 11 participants) ensures a more personal, less commercial feel, often turning into a social event with new friends. Many reviewers mention guides by name, describing them as “super nice,” “fun,” and “knowledgeable,” which enhances the overall experience.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

The cruise lasts about 3 hours, so plan accordingly. It departs from Foa Harbor in Zadar’s Old Town, with easy access for most travelers staying nearby. The tour operates with limited group sizes, making it more intimate.

Pricing is budget-friendly at $31 per person, and the cost covers most essentials—snorkeling equipment, prosecco, water, and a dry bag for your valuables. However, there’s a mandatory docking fee (10 kuna for those over 12, 5 for kids under 12) payable in cash at the start, which is common for boat trips in Croatia.

What to bring? Think sun protection—hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and beachwear—plus a sense of adventure. The boat has shade covering about 40%, but the front is perfect for sunbathing. No toilets are onboard, so plan accordingly.

Accessibility? The tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 80, and the boat might not accommodate strollers. Also, the tour can be canceled or postponed in bad weather, so keep an eye on the forecast and be flexible.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a clear picture of consistent satisfaction. Travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, with one saying, “Mate the guide was super friendly and fun,” and another noting, “The trip was amazing, and the guide made everyone feel welcome.” The scenic stops and comfortable boat get many nods, with travelers mentioning they had “more than enough time to swim” and were pleased with the balance of water activities and sightseeing.

Some highlight the value for money, describing it as a “great activity for the price,” especially given the included drinks, snorkeling gear, and the chance to visit three different islands. The personalized attention and small group size are frequently mentioned, making it less of a “tourist herd” experience.

The Sum Up

This Zadar snorkeling cruise offers an appealing blend of scenic beauty, underwater exploration, and social enjoyment. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic boat trip without spending a fortune. The friendly guides, well-chosen stops, and included prosecco make it a memorable mini-adventure.

While it’s not an all-day tour, the 3-hour format suits those with limited time or a preference for a light, fun outing. For families over 12, couples, or friends wanting a laid-back day with stunning views and refreshing water activities, this experience hits all the right notes.

The combination of authentic charm, great value, and positive reviews suggests this cruise remains a hit among travelers looking for a taste of Dalmatian island life in a relaxed, friendly setting.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

Where do I meet the boat?
The meeting point is Foa Harbor in Zadar’s Old Town, near the green traditional boat marked “Zadar Boat Tours.”

What is included in the price?
The price covers snorkeling equipment (full-face masks), prosecco, water, a dry bag, the skipper/guide, and safety equipment.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a mandatory docking fee (10 kuna for those over 12, 5 for kids under 12) must be paid in cash on the boat.

Can I swim or snorkel at each stop?
Yes, all stops are suitable for swimming and snorkeling, with enough time to enjoy both. The stops include a main island, a scenic secret island, and other picturesque spots.

Is food available on the tour?
No, food isn’t included, but the drinks and fruit onboard are often appreciated. If you want a full meal, consider bringing your own snacks or eating beforehand.

In the end, this cruise offers a delightful, affordable way to experience some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, especially if you enjoy the simple pleasures of good company, scenic views, and a splash of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: