Zadar: 3 Islands Speedboat Tour with Drinks and Diving

Introduction

Imagine zipping across clear, shimmering waters aboard a sleek speedboat, stopping at enchanting islands where you can swim, explore, and soak up the scenery. That’s exactly what the Zadar: 3 Islands Speedboat Tour with Drinks and Diving promises. This guided experience offers a wonderful blend of adventure, relaxation, and local charm, perfect for travelers eager to escape the city buzz and dive into Croatia’s coastal beauty.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its balance — you get enough time on land and in the water to feel immersed without dragging on too long. Plus, the small group size (limited to 7 people) ensures a friendly, personalized vibe. One thing to consider: the tour doesn’t include food, so come prepared with your own snacks if that’s important to you. This trip is ideal for those who love a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and exploring authentic small villages, making it suitable for couples, friends, and families (excluding very young children or those with limited mobility).

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 7 participants for a more intimate adventure.
• Multiple Stops: Visit three distinct islands, each offering unique sights and free time.
• Flexible and Relaxed: Plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring at each stop.
• Guided Insight: Knowledgeable guides share interesting facts about the islands and area.
• Value for Money: Includes drinks, snorkeling equipment, and a local schnapps tasting.
• Suitable for: Travelers comfortable with water activities and looking for a scenic, laid-back day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Zadar Islands by Speedboat

This tour is a swift yet comprehensive way to experience some of the most charming spots near Zadar. The whole journey lasts around four hours, offering enough time to enjoy the scenery, take a dip, and stretch your legs without feeling rushed. The tour’s starting point is conveniently located at Ul. Kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, right by the marina, making it easy to find and access.

The Itinerary — What You’ll Actually Do

The adventure kicks off with a 20-minute ride by speedboat from the starting point, setting the tone for a fun, speedy exploration. The first stop arrives at Blue Bay Otri, a popular swimming and snorkel spot. Here, you’ll spend about 45 minutes, giving you ample opportunity to float in the clear waters or explore underwater life with provided snorkeling gear. The reviews highlight how much guests loved this part, describing the beaches as “amazing” and noting the “loads of time to swim and snorkel.”

Next, you cruise to Oljak for about an hour. This stop features a guided tour, free time for wandering, and the chance for photos — a favorite among visitors. As one reviewer put it, the boat is “very comfortable,” and the guide, Dino, is flexible and relaxed, making the experience more enjoyable. The small group size means you can ask questions or linger at your own pace, which many find adds a personal touch.

From Oljak, a quick 15-minute boat ride takes you to Preko, a delightful village on Ugljan Island. Expect another hour of free time to explore, shop for souvenirs, or relax at local cafes. The reviews repeatedly mention how charming and scenic these spots are—“beautiful beaches” and “amazing views” are common themes.

Finally, another 20-minute cruise wraps up your island visits, returning you comfortably to your starting location. Along the way back, enjoy drinks and snacks on board, with the added treat of tasting homemade schnapps before disembarking.

What Each Stop Means for You

Blue Bay Otri: This is the perfect introduction to Croatian coastal waters. Crystal-clear, calm, and inviting, it’s ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Guests often comment on how the water here is “beautiful,” providing a refreshing break from the boat.

Oljak: Known for its small-town charm and scenic views, this stop gives you a taste of local life and a chance to explore on foot. The guided tour offers insights into the island’s history and culture, making it more than just a beach stop.

Preko on Ugljan: With a relaxed village atmosphere, this stop is great for exploring local shops and enjoying the picturesque surroundings. The free time allows for spontaneous adventures or simply unwinding by the water.

Why This Tour Stands Out

One of the strongest points is the balance of activity and relaxation. You’re not just rushing between spots; you get meaningful time to enjoy each location. The guides receive praise for their knowledge and friendly attitude, which adds an authentic feel to the trip. As one reviewer notes, “Dino was a great captain and guide. Everything was super relaxing,” capturing the overall mood.

The value for money is also notable. At around four hours, with drinks, snorkeling equipment, and a local schnapps tasting included, many travelers find this offers excellent bang for your buck, especially compared to larger tour operators that might rush or overcharge.

The small group setting (max 7 participants) fosters camaraderie and gives everyone a chance to participate actively, whether that’s asking questions or deciding how long to stay at each stop. Many reviewers rave about the friendly atmosphere and personalized service.

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Practicalities and Tips

• What to bring: a hat, change of clothes, drinks, comfortable attire, and cash (for docking fees). The tour doesn’t include food, so pack snacks if needed.
• Duration: about four hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.
• Cost: Docking fees are 10 EUR per adult and 5 EUR per child, paid on the day.
• Suitability: not recommended for wheelchair users or babies under one year old. If you’re comfortable with water activities, you’ll enjoy this trip.
• Weather: always check the forecast, as the experience is weather-dependent — calm seas make for the best day out.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Feedback

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One reviewer enthuses, “The beaches are amazing,” emphasizing how much the natural beauty impacts perceptions. Others appreciate the relaxed vibe, with Dino’s flexible approach making the trip less rigid and more personal.

Numerous reviews mention the high quality of the boat, noting that it’s comfortable and well-maintained, suitable for small groups. The timing also seems just right—starting around late afternoon allows travelers to enjoy sunset views on the return leg, enhancing the experience.

In The Sum Up

This speedboat tour from Zadar offers a compact, enjoyable way to explore the nearby islands without feeling rushed. Its combination of swimming, exploring charming villages, and scenic cruises makes it a top choice for those wanting a taste of Croatia’s coastal life. The small group size and friendly guides help create a genuine, personalized experience, making it worth considering whether you’re visiting Croatia for the first time or are a seasoned traveler seeking a relaxed day out.

If you love beautiful beaches, scenic views, and authentic small-town charm, this tour is a fantastic way to spend a few hours soaking in the Dalmatian coast. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure — and maybe a little cash for the docking fees!

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for travelers comfortable with water activities. Babies under 1 year aren’t recommended, and the tour involves some swimming, so older children should be supervised accordingly.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including stops, swimming, and free time on the islands.

Does the tour include food?
No, food isn’t included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase something during your free time on land.

Are drinks provided?
Yes, unlimited water and a local alcoholic drink are included, along with snacks and a homemade schnapps tasting before returning.

Can I join if I don’t snorkel?
Absolutely. Snorkeling equipment is provided for those interested, but it’s not required. You can relax on the boat or explore the beaches instead.

Is the group size small?
Yes. The tour is limited to 7 participants, offering a more personal experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, change of clothes, drinks, comfortable attire, cash for docking fees, and possibly some snacks.

This Zadar island tour combines scenic cruising, authentic village exploration, and refreshing swims—making it a memorable and worthwhile experience for anyone eager to see Croatia from the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: