Zadar: 3-Stop Blue Lagoon & Snorkeling Cruise with Drinks

If you’re after a quick taste of Dalmatia’s coastal beauty, this speedboat tour from Zadar offers a lively, scenic excursion perfect for those short on time but eager for authentic Croatian island life. It’s designed for travelers who love a mix of swimming, snorkeling, and island exploring, all wrapped up in a small-group setting that keeps things intimate and relaxed.

What stands out most are the stunning views and knowledgeable guides who make each stop lively and informative. Plus, the inclusion of free drinks and local seafood adds a touch of local flavor. On the flip side, you might find the cost of the docking fee a little unexpected, and the snorkeling might not satisfy serious marine life enthusiasts. Still, this experience is best suited for those who want a balanced taste of adventure, relaxation, and Croatian charm without a full-day commitment.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy enhances the experience and allows more personalized attention.
• Multiple stops combine scenic beauty with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
• Expert local guides keep the tour informative, friendly, and fun.
• Great value considering the included drinks, snorkeling gear, and access to charming villages.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later features.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and authentic local villages in just a few hours.

For travelers dreaming of the Croatian coast, this 3-stop speedboat tour offers a snapshot of Dalmatia’s natural beauty, local life, and clear waters—all packed into a 4-hour window. It’s a lively, well-organized trip that balances sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, with a friendly guide making sure everyone feels comfortable and engaged.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The adventure begins right in Zadar at a meeting point on Ul. Kralja Dmitra Zvonimira, where friendly staff, including our guide Agnieszka, greet guests with a warm welcome. From there, it’s a quick 15-minute boat ride to the first stop, the Blue Lagoon Bay. This is the star attraction—an almost surreal stretch of shallow, crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling and swimming. As one reviewer put it, “Snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon was an incredible experience—the water was beautiful,” giving you a chance to see what’s hiding beneath the surface in peaceful solitude.

The Blue Lagoon is appreciated for its gentle sands and tranquil environment, making it ideal for relaxing and taking in the scenic surroundings. The stop lasts about 40 minutes, providing enough time for a swim and to experience the calming atmosphere. You’ll love the way the water’s clarity makes it feel like you’re floating in a giant, natural swimming pool.

Next, the boat takes you to the small village of Ugljan Island, accessible within about 15 minutes. Here, you can stroll along the shore, soak up local life, or indulge in fresh seafood—fried sardines or calamari—at a very reasonable price. Several reviews highlight this stop’s charm, with travelers praising the opportunity to experience authentic Dalmatian village life and enjoy a laid-back lunch or snack. The atmosphere is friendly, and the guide Lovre is often singled out for being helpful and informative.

The final island stop is Preko, reached after another 15-minute cruise. This spot offers a mix of sandy beaches and snorkeling opportunities, with roughly 75 minutes to explore. You can visit the small beach, snorkel again, or simply soak up the sun and scenery. Many guests appreciate the chance to see underwater life again, with some mentioning they discovered sea creatures like sea cucumbers. From here, a short boat ride takes you to Galevac, where you can explore an ancient monastery amid lush greenery, adding a touch of historical intrigue to the trip.

The return journey is scenic, with about 10 minutes of cruising back to Zadar, allowing you to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the views along the coast.

The Experience: What Makes It Stand Out

Guides and Group Size – This tour is hosted by a local skipper with a wealth of knowledge and a friendly attitude. Multiple reviews praise the guides’ helpfulness, humor, and attentiveness, which makes the experience more personal. The small group limit (up to 12 participants) ensures a relaxed atmosphere, avoiding the chaos of larger tours.

Scenery and Water Activities – The Croatian coast offers spectacular views—craggy islands, lush greenery, and sparkling waters. The Blue Lagoon’s shallow, clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, even if marine life isn’t abundant. Reviewers mention that the water’s transparency and the chance to see underwater flora and fauna make the stops worthwhile.

Local Villages and Food – Visiting small villages like Ugljan and Preko provides an authentic glimpse into Dalmatian life. The optional seafood stops are a highlight for many, offering fresh, affordable local specialties such as fried sardines and calamari. Several travelers mention that these moments add a genuine, local flavor to the trip, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise.

Drinks and Relaxation – The tour’s inclusion of free drinks, including local wine, soft drinks, and water, is appreciated by guests. It creates a festive, convivial atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after each swimming stop. Many reviews note that the drinks flow freely, adding to the holiday feel.

Value Considerations – At a surprisingly affordable price, considering the boat ride, guides, snorkeling equipment, and multiple stops, this tour offers excellent value. The dock fee of 10 euros per person is a small additional expense, payable in cash, which some travelers might overlook when budgeting.

The Downside: Things to Keep in Mind

While the tour offers a balanced experience, a few considerations might influence your decision. The snorkeling may not attract abundant marine life, especially in a busy bay like the Blue Lagoon, which some reviews note. If snorkeling is your main focus, you might be slightly disappointed; however, the clarity of the water still makes it enjoyable.

The dock fee might seem a little hidden or unexpected if you’re not prepared for extra charges. Remember to bring cash for this small expense.

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and travelers needing special accommodations might want to consider other options. Also, because the trip involves multiple short boat rides, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of movement and open water.

Why It’s a Great Choice

This tour is ideal for those who want a quick yet immersive taste of Dalmatia’s coastal beauty. It’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager to snorkel, relax, and explore local villages in a friendly setting. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike can enjoy the small-group vibe, with plenty of opportunities to chat with fellow travelers and guides.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and fun experience with good value and excellent guides, this cruise hits the mark. The combination of stunning scenery, authentic villages, and lively atmosphere makes it a memorable part of any Croatian trip.

This 3-stop Blue Lagoon & Snorkeling Cruise from Zadar offers a well-rounded snapshot of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. It balances beautiful scenery, local culture, and water fun, all wrapped up in a friendly, small-group setting. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate informative guides, scenic views, and a relaxed vibe over a long, hectic day.

If you’re looking for a value-packed, authentic experience that combines snorkeling, island hopping, and local food, this tour is a smart choice. It’s also perfect for those who prefer a smaller group for a more personal touch and better opportunities to connect with guides and fellow travelers.

For anyone wanting a light, fun, and beautiful way to enjoy Croatia’s coast—without missing out on the charm of its charming villages and sparkling waters—this cruise will surely deliver.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to small groups of up to 12 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

How long is each stop?
The Blue Lagoon stop lasts around 40 minutes, Ugljan village has a short break for walking and eating, and Preko offers about 75 minutes for exploring and snorkeling.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Snorkeling gear and life vests are provided and disinfected, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there are free drinks on board, including soft drinks, water, and local wine. It enhances the relaxing, festive atmosphere.

How much is the docking fee?
The fee is 10 euros per person, payable in cash at the start of the tour. This covers all stops.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but non-swimmers should exercise caution in open water. The snorkeling is in shallow, calm waters, but always inform your guide if you have concerns.

This cruise offers a charming, enjoyable way to experience Croatia’s coastal highlights in just a few hours. It’s a lively, friendly outing perfect for those who want a taste of island life, beautiful waters, and some local flavor—all led by guides who truly know their stuff.

You can check availability for your dates here: