Zadar: Boat Tour to the Ugljan, Preko, and Oljak Islands

Thinking about experiencing the Croatian coast beyond the city of Zadar? This boat tour to the islands of Ugljan, Galevac, and Oljak offers a fantastic way to see some of Dalmatia’s most charming spots, all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat. It’s a good choice for travelers who like a mix of sightseeing, water activities, and a taste of local island life.

What we particularly like about the tour are the well-balanced stops—you get plenty of time for swimming and exploring—and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who are happy to share insights and help make the experience memorable. On the flip side, the price of $35 per person might seem modest, but it’s worth noting that there’s a small extra fee for docking, which adds to the overall cost.

This trip suits those looking for an affordable, relaxed day on the water, especially families, couples, or anyone eager to see the islands’ natural beauty and historic sites without the hassle of independent planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Ideal for all ages, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
Includes visits to three distinct islands, each with unique highlights.
Relaxed pace with plenty of time for splashing and exploring.
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with helpful commentary.
Affordable value at $35 per person, including drinks and safety gear.
Docking fee applies, which is paid in cash and varies slightly for children.

You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Zadar

An Authentic Day on Croatia’s Islands

When you step onto this boat tour, you’re signing up for a laid-back yet engaging day exploring the Dalmatian coast’s hidden gems. The journey starts at the Zadar port, behind the Foa restaurant, where you’ll hop aboard a boat that’s just the right size—not too big to feel crowded, but spacious enough for comfort. Expect a friendly skipper at the wheel, ready to take you on a scenic cruise through turquoise waters.

What the Tour Covers

The itinerary is designed to balance scenic cruising with stops that give you time to relax and explore. The tour visits three islands—Ugljan, Galevac, and Oljak—each offering a different flavor of island life.

Ugljan: A Taste of Local Charm

While some reviews note that the boat may not always stop at Ugljan, it remains a highlight for many travelers. This island is known for its lush landscape and laid-back vibe. You’ll love the possibility of jumping into the clear water from the boat or exploring the coast at your leisure. The overall experience is about enjoying the beautiful scenery and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters.

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Galevac: A Seaside Sanctuary

Galevac, also called Kolji, is a favorite stop for swimming and sightseeing. Opposite Preko, it’s home to an old church and a monastery, adding a touch of history and tranquility. The shallow waters and calm coves make it ideal for families or those who want a gentle swimming experience. As one reviewer pointed out, it’s “great for touring and sightseeing,” especially with the old church and monastery providing a glimpse into the area’s past.

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Oljak: The Smallest But Most Cultural

Oljak is notable as the smallest inhabited island on the Croatian coast with a traditional Mediterranean architecture. It features a 6th-century Church of St. Mary and a 16th-century windmill, giving you a chance to see history up close. The island’s quiet, unspoiled character makes it perfect for diving, fishing, or just soaking in the natural beauty. Many travelers mention the helpfulness of the crew in making sure everyone gets a chance to enjoy the village and its historic sites.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Nature

A major attraction of the tour is the opportunity to swim in the Adriatic’s clear waters at three spots. The stops are chosen for their natural beauty—rocky shores, pebble beaches, and sandy bottoms—making them perfect for snorkeling and relaxing. The tour provides diving masks and life vests, so you can comfortably explore marine life beneath the surface.

One guest mentioned the diverse marine life and sandy bottoms at OtriBay, making it a favorite for snorkelers. With water temperatures warm enough in summer, this is a refreshing way to cool off and enjoy Croatia’s spectacular coastline.

The Boat and Amenities

The boat itself is praised for space and comfort—plenty of room for sunbathing at the front or sitting in the shade at the back, depending on your preference. Drinks—including juice, water, and beer—are included, which adds to the relaxed vibe. The tour also features toilet facilities onboard, so you won’t have to worry about comfort during your day at sea.

A review highlights that children who can’t swim find this tour especially suitable, thanks to the smaller boat size and helpful crew. The friendly skipper is often praised for making everyone feel safe and well cared for.

Practical Details and Cost Analysis

For $35 per person, this tour offers excellent value—especially when you consider the all-inclusive drinks and snorkeling gear. The visit to three different islands and the time spent swimming, relaxing, and sightseeing make it a full day of activity.

However, travelers should note the additional docking fee of €10 per person, payable in cash upon arrival. Children under 10 pay a reduced fee of €5. This fee is a small extra but worth planning for.

The tour lasts roughly half a day, with flexible timing that suits most schedules. It’s suitable for all ages and easy to join without needing prior experience. No hotel pickup is included, so you’ll need to arrive at the Zadar port yourself, but the meeting point is straightforwardly located behind the Foa restaurant.

Reviews and Real Experiences

Reviews highlight how friendly and helpful the crew is. One traveler remarked, “The captain was very friendly and helpful,” while another appreciated that the trip was “spectacular” beyond expectations. People also point out that the boat isn’t large, which creates a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere—perfect for families or small groups.

Several reviews mention how the guides are eager to answer questions and assist, especially in helping those with mobility issues, such as a traveler who brought a wheelchair and found plenty of support.

What to Bring and Tips for Your Day

To make the most of this experience, pack a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and your camera. Snacks are not included, so bringing some small bites might be a good idea. Remember, the weather can be quite sunny, so sun protection is key.

The tour’s flexibility makes it suitable for all ages, and the stops allow you to tailor your day—whether you want to relax on the boat, explore the islands, or splash in the sea.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is best suited for families with children, couples seeking a scenic day on the water, or anyone who enjoys a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore. History buffs will appreciate the island architecture, while water lovers will revel in the chance to snorkel and cool off.

It’s a straightforward, affordable way to see some of Croatia’s most charming islands without the hassle of ferry schedules or complicated plans. The friendly crew and the calm waters make it a safe, enjoyable experience for nearly everyone.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For those looking to combine nature, historical sights, and water fun, this tour hits the mark. It offers a balanced day with enough time for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing. The affordable price point and included amenities give you good bang for your buck, especially compared to more expensive private tours.

If you’re traveling with family or prefer a smaller, intimate boat trip that’s easy to join, this experience is a strong choice. It’s particularly great for anyone eager to see Croatia’s islands in a fun, relaxed way without overplanning.

While it’s not a luxury excursion, it delivers authentic charm, friendly service, and memorable views—true hallmarks of a great Croatian island day.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup? No, the tour does not include pickup or drop-off; you’ll need to meet at the Zadar port behind the Foa restaurant.

What is the price of the tour? It costs about $35 per person, plus a €10 cash docking fee, with children under 10 paying €5.

Are drinks included? Yes, the tour provides juice, water, and beer during the trip.

Is the tour suitable for children? Absolutely. Reviewers say it’s “great with young children who can’t swim,” thanks to the friendly crew and small boat size.

How long does the tour last? It’s a half-day experience, allowing plenty of time for swimming and exploring without feeling rushed.

Can I swim at each stop? Yes, swimming and snorkeling are key parts of the experience, with opportunities at each island.

Is there any historical sightseeing? Yes, on Oljak you can see the 6th-century Church of St. Mary and a 16th-century windmill.

What should I bring? Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and some snacks.

What’s the boat like? It’s a small, comfortable vessel with space for sunbathing and shade, equipped with diving masks and safety gear.

Is the tour offered in multiple languages? Yes, guides speak Croatian and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

In all, this boat tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see some of Croatia’s most charming islands, with a good balance of water fun, sightseeing, and laid-back island culture. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, it’s a day well spent on the Dalmatian coast.