Zadar: Fun Swim and Snorkel Short Day Trip

Thinking about spending a relaxing day exploring Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian islands without the hassle of a full-day tour? The Zadar Fun Swim and Snorkel Short Day Trip offers just that—a well-paced, enjoyable introduction to the crystal-clear waters and charming small towns around Ugljan Island. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of local life, vibrant scenery, and water-based fun, all in a manageable six-hour package.

What makes this trip stand out? First, we love the large, traditional wooden ship with ample space to spread out—whether you’re sunbathing, chatting, or simply soaking in the views. Second, the variety of water activities—swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding—are included at no extra cost, offering a lively, interactive experience. That being said, a potential consideration is the small group size—while that guarantees personalized attention, it might feel a bit crowded on busy days.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, small-town charm, and a relaxed pace. If you’re looking to unwind, discover hidden bays, and enjoy good food and drinks in a friendly setting, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s an excellent choice for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a fun and authentic Croatian boat experience.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of water activities and scenic stops for a full day of fun without feeling rushed
• Spacious traditional ship with plenty of room for lounging, swimming, or socializing
• All water equipment included—snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and water access ladders
• Small group size ensures personalized service and a more intimate atmosphere
• Well-organized itinerary with stops in charming port towns and quiet bays
• Value-driven, with included lunch, drinks, freshwater showers, and toilets

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and Its Appeal

The tour kicks off at the Rhythm Travel Experience dock, conveniently located near Zadar’s pedestrian bridge and fresh food markets. This means getting to the meeting point is straightforward, and you’re immediately immersed in the local vibe. Once onboard, the 30-minute sightseeing cruise gives you your first taste of the sea, setting the scene for the day ahead.

The day is thoughtfully divided into segments that balance activity with relaxation. The first stop in Ugljan—either Kukljica, Preko, or Kali—introduces you to a picturesque port town. As one reviewer enthusiastically remarked, “We stopped at the beautiful Preko and explored for a little bit with a quick dip,” highlighting that these towns are perfect for a quick stroll or swim. If you choose Preko, there’s even the opportunity to swim to a tiny island monastery—adding a touch of adventure.

The second stop is a tranquil bay where you can jump from the ship into the blue waters, snorkel over rocks and marine life, or paddleboard at your leisure. The chance to explore rock beaches or simply relax aboard makes this a flexible and laid-back experience. The 45-minute scenic cruise back to Zadar offers stunning vistas, perfect for photos or just soaking in the moment.

Water Activities — Fun and Practical

The inclusion of snorkeling gear and paddleboards is a significant plus. These aren’t optional extras—you’re encouraged to participate and enjoy the water. The jumping platform from the ship adds a splash of fun, whether you’re looking for a quick thrill or a relaxed splash. As one reviewer mentioned, “The jump and swim was fun,” showing that these features are well appreciated.

Having freshwater showers and toilets onboard enhances comfort after swimming or lounging in the sun, a considerate touch on a day centered around water activities. The ship’s large traditional wooden design provides plenty of space, avoiding the cramped feel common on smaller boats.

Food and Drinks

A highlight of the trip is the lunch, which offers a healthy sub sandwich with options for vegans, gluten-free diets, and meat-eaters. The lunch drink and a cocktail bar on board add to the relaxed, social atmosphere—many guests find the drinks and sandwiches hit the spot after splashing around. One reviewer noted, “The sandwiches and drinks were delicious,” emphasizing the quality.

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The Vessel and Atmosphere

The large, spacious ship is a key feature, according to reviews and description. It offers multiple lounging areas, four separate sections for privacy or socializing, and plenty of space to sunbathe or chat. The onboard WiFi and 220V power make it easy to stay connected or charge devices—useful for those wanting to share the experience live.

The small group size—20 to 30 guests—means you’ll likely enjoy a more personalized experience. Many visitors report that the crew is friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, which enhances the overall enjoyment.

Pricing and Value

At first glance, the cost includes quite a bit: snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, lunch, drinks, freshwater showers, and the scenic stops. The mandatory €10 port fee is a small additional expense, paid on the day. When you factor in the inclusive amenities, the value becomes clearer. You’re paying for a well-organized, activity-rich day that covers transport, equipment, food, and beverages, making it feel like a comprehensive package.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers who enjoy being active but relaxed will find this tour ideal. Families with children, couples, or groups of friends who love swimming, exploring small towns, and soaking up the sun will all appreciate it. It’s especially suitable if you’re a first-time visitor to Croatia, wanting an authentic, fun-filled day without the commitment of a full-day tour.

Final Thoughts

This Zadar Fun Swim and Snorkel Short Day Trip offers a delightful balance of scenic cruising, water-based fun, and small-town charm. The large traditional ship with its ample space provides a comfortable base for the day, while the included activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding ensure everyone stays engaged. The quality food and drinks add a nice touch of local hospitality, and the scenic stops allow for some genuine exploration.

If you’re after a relaxed, activity-packed half-day that captures the essence of Croatia’s coastal beauty, this trip is a solid pick. It’s especially well-suited for those who value comfort, small-group intimacy, and a mix of adventure and leisure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the best of Croatia’s waters without a full-day commitment. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a flexible, fun way to see Ugljan Island will find this ideal. It’s also a great choice if you prefer a quieter, laid-back vibe with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on deck.

If you’re after a lively, social atmosphere with good food and beautiful scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially beneficial for those who appreciate comfortable, well-organized trips where every detail has been thought through for maximum enjoyment.

FAQ

What should I bring for this trip?
Bring swimwear and a towel, as you’ll be spending time in the water. Sunscreen and a hat are advisable for sun protection.

Is there any special equipment included?
Yes, snorkeling gear and paddleboards are provided free of charge, so you can jump right into the water without extra hassle.

How big is the group?
The group typically ranges from 20 to 30 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?
The lunch includes options suitable for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets, including healthy sub sandwiches.

What’s the duration of the trip?
The tour lasts around 6 hours, generally from 10 am to 4 pm, but check availability for specific start times.

Is this trip suitable for children?
While it’s great for families, it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or over 70 years old, due to physical activity involved.

What’s the cost involved?
The main cost includes all activities, food, and equipment. There’s a €10 port fee payable on the day, which covers docking costs.

To sum it up, this well-paced, activity-rich day trip from Zadar offers a genuine taste of Croatia’s stunning waters and quaint islands. With its spacious ship, inclusive amenities, and scenic stops, it promises a fun and authentic experience that caters to a variety of travelers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this tour provides excellent value and a memorable day on the Dalmatian coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: