Zadar: Island cruise with drinks, snorkeling and kayaking

Zadar: Island cruise with drinks, snorkeling and kayaking — a detailed review

Picture yourself cruising through the shimmering waters of the Croatian Adriatic, drifting between tiny islands, with the sun warming your face and the gentle sound of waves in your ears. That’s the kind of experience this Zadar island cruise promises—an inviting blend of scenic beauty, active fun, and laid-back relaxation. Offered by Ugljan Sailing Tours, this 4-hour adventure is perfect for those who want to see the islands without the fuss of a full-day trip or the expense of luxury charter.

What we genuinely love about this tour is its combination of accessible adventure and authentic local charm. The stops at hidden coves and picturesque beaches allow for genuine swimming and snorkeling, giving travelers a chance to explore the clear waters away from crowded spots. Plus, the small group size—limited to just 10 participants—ensures a more intimate experience that’s easygoing and personalized. On the flip side, a key consideration is that this tour might not be ideal for anyone prone to seasickness, as it involves some open water cruising and lively boat handling.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a balance of nature, activity, and social fun. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it offers a taste of the Dalmatian coast’s stunning scenery with enough flexibility to swim, snorkel, and paddle at your own pace. If you’re after a relaxed, reasonably priced adventure that gets you out on the water without the hefty price tag, this tour hits the sweet spot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic island hopping: Visit two different islands, Oljak and Ugljan, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
• Active options included: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming allow you to engage with the sea or simply relax on deck.
• Scenic beauty: The boat cruise offers views of the archipelago, picturesque beaches, and secluded coves—perfect for photography and peaceful moments.
• Informative guides: Travelers rave about knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories about the islands and local marine life.
• Great value: At just $47, the trip offers a lot for the price, including drinks, equipment, and guided exploration.
• Limited group size: Small groups ensure a less crowded, more tailored experience, enhancing comfort and interaction.

An in-depth look at the experience

Departure and initial cruise

The tour begins at Obala kralja Petra Kreimira IV—an easy-to-find starting point right in Zadar’s city center. With a brief 25-minute cruise, you’ll begin to feel that carefree vibe as you leave the urban scenery behind and set course toward the islands. The boat itself is a comfortable vessel, suitable for a small group but with enough space to spread out and soak in the views.

First stop: Otok Galevac

The highlight here is the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and paddle in the crystal-clear waters. The reviews highlight how the snorkeling gear is supplied, and the marine life viewing is a key part of the trip. One traveler from Belgium called it a “great afternoon,” appreciating the chance to explore the underwater world in a quiet, scenic setting. The scenic views on the way are equally captivating, with the boat gently drifting through the archipelago, offering perfect photo moments.

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Scenic cruise and brief stop at Kali

From Galevac, the boat cruises for about 15 minutes before heading to Kali, a lively spot where you can enjoy drinks, snacks, and free time. Travelers often mention the wide selection of beverages—beer, cocktails, wine, and spirits—that help create a relaxed, social atmosphere. There’s also the option to have lunch at local restaurants or beach bars, making this a flexible stop for those wanting a proper meal or just a quick refreshment. You might find yourself lounging on the beach, swimming, or trying your hand at snorkeling again.

Ugljan Island exploration

After Kali, the boat navigates back to Ugljan, where you have about 1.5 hours of free time. Many guests use this opportunity to visit restaurants, relax on the beach, or try more water activities. This stop is perfect for those who want to stretch their legs, take in the local scenery, or simply enjoy some downtime amid peaceful surroundings.

Return cruise and overview

The journey back to Zadar takes about 30 minutes, cruising through the archipelago’s stunning scenery. Several travelers mention how the views are captivating, and some note that the trip is “very chilled and laid back,” as one reviewer said. Despite a minor hiccup with an engine issue on one trip, the crew handled it calmly, with an emergency boat taking over—an example of the professionalism you can expect.

What makes this tour special

This cruise offers a balance that few other options in Zadar can match. The combination of relaxation, active pursuits, and scenic exploration makes it suitable for a range of travelers. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and kayaks for no extra charge is a big plus, especially considering the excellent value.

You’ll love the way the guide shares interesting information about the islands and marine life, adding depth to your experience. The small group size (max 10) ensures everyone feels involved and comfortable, avoiding the crowded feeling common on larger tours.

Snorkeling and kayaking

Guests consistently praise the quality of the snorkeling gear and the opportunity to see marine life in calm, clear waters. The kayak and stand-up paddleboard are great for those wanting a more active experience—although some reviews note only one kayak and one SUP are available, so if everyone wants to try, it could be a bit crowded.

Scenic beauty and local charm

The islands are unspoiled and picturesque, with quiet beaches and hidden coves offering tranquil spots for swimming and relaxing. The boat’s route through the archipelago provides plenty of opportunities to admire the stunning coastline and secluded beaches—perfect for photography or just soaking in the scenery.

Drinks and social atmosphere

The inclusion of local drinks like beer, wine, and spirits adds a social element that many travelers appreciate. As one reviewer from France said, “Very nice typical restaurants, wide choice: drinks, ice cream, dishes: grilled fish and salad, very beautiful beach, translucent water: calm and relaxing.” The relaxed vibe and good company make this a memorable experience.

Practical details for travelers

• Timing: Departures are available in the morning (10:00-14:00) and afternoon (15:00-19:00). Check availability to see what suits your schedule.
• Cost: At $47 per person, it’s an affordable way to enjoy the islands without breaking the bank—especially when considering what’s included.
• Inclusions: Drinks, snorkeling equipment, one kayak, one SUP, and the guided tour. This all adds up to a value-packed experience.
• What to bring: Sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, and sunscreen. The tour doesn’t provide meals, so bring your own if desired.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for those prone to seasickness or traveling with pets.
• Weather considerations: The meeting point can be changed in case of strong winds, and guests will be informed of any weather-related adjustments.

Who this tour is best for

This trip appeals most to travelers looking for a relaxed day on the water with just enough activity to keep things interesting. If you enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and scenic cruising but prefer a small, intimate group, you’ll find this ideal. It’s especially well-suited for families, friends, or solo travelers who want an authentic, fun-filled island experience at a reasonable price.

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or seasickness, given the open water nature and limited time on each island. If you’re hoping for a full-day adventure or luxury amenities, you might find this tour a bit basic—but for most visitors seeking a straightforward, enjoyable day with local charm, it hits the mark.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all experience levels and ages, as long as participants are comfortable on a boat and in the water. It’s especially popular with families and groups of friends.

What is included in the price?
For $47, you get a guided boat tour, drinks (beer, wine, spirits, Fanta, water), snorkeling equipment, one kayak, and one stand-up paddleboard. You also have the chance to swim, snorkel, and explore.

How long is each stop?
The stop at Galevac is about 80 minutes, and Ugljan offers about 1.5 hours of free time. The boat cruise between stops varies, with scenic cruising segments of 25 to 30 minutes.

Can I bring my own snacks or drinks?
You should bring your own snacks and water, as these are not included in the tour. However, drinks are provided on board.

What if the weather is bad?
The meeting point can be changed in case of strong winds or bad weather, and guests will be notified. The tour is weather-dependent, so check the forecast before booking.

Are there any hidden costs?
There’s a €10 (or €5 for kids) docking fee payable before boarding. Payment by card is accepted, and this fee covers the use of the dock.

Final thoughts

This Zadar island cruise delivers a genuine taste of the Dalmatian coast’s beauty without a hefty price tag. It’s a well-balanced mix of scenic cruising, active water play, and relaxed island exploration, all within a manageable 4-hour window. The small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and included drinks make it a standout option for travelers seeking a laid-back but memorable day on the sea.

Ideal for those who value authentic experiences, beautiful scenery, and good company, this tour offers a straightforward way to enjoy Croatia’s iconic islands. Whether you want to swim in clear waters, learn about local marine life, or just soak up the sun with a cool drink in hand, this trip delivers.

If you’re in Zadar and craving a fun, affordable day out in nature with friends or family, this island cruise is an excellent choice. It’s a chance to connect with the sea, discover hidden gems, and create some delightful memories along Croatia’s stunning coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: