Zadar: Speedboat Tour with Snorkeling & Fruit All Inclusive

If you’re considering a quick escape from the hustle of Zadar’s lively streets, a speedboat tour along the Dalmatian coast might just be your ideal choice. This particular experience, offered by Arija Tours, promises a half-day adventure filled with sightseeing, swimming in turquoise bays, and enjoying Croatian hospitality—all in about four hours. It’s designed for travelers who want to maximize their day with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural highlights without breaking the bank.

What we love about this tour is its value for money—for just around $23 per person, you get a lively ride, snorkeling gear, refreshing fruits, and a friendly skipper who keeps things fun and informative. Plus, the well-curated stops at charming islands and quiet villages mean you’re not just rushing past scenery—you get time to really enjoy each spot. One minor consideration is the duration; with only four hours, it’s a quick trip, so if you’re craving an in-depth exploration or multiple days on the water, this might feel a bit brief.

This tour suits travelers looking for a balanced blend of sightseeing and recreation, particularly those who appreciate authentic spots rather than tourist-heavy areas. Families, solo travelers, or groups of friends can all enjoy the relaxed vibe and flexible pace. If you value stunning scenery, snorkeling, and a friendly guide, this experience will likely hit the mark.

Key Points

• Affordable adventure with excellent value for the price.
• Short, flexible schedule perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary.
• Multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring peaceful islands.
• Expert guides that make the experience engaging and informative.
• Comfortable, well-equipped boat with water, fruit, and music options.
• Authentic local spots away from overcrowded tourist traps.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Speedboat Tour from Zadar

An Introduction to the Experience

This speedboat trip offers a lively way to explore Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, focusing on a mix of nature, culture, and fun. You won’t get a deep dive into history here, but rather a taste of Croatia’s scenic beauty and the chance to enjoy some quality time in the water. What makes this tour stand out is its well-rounded approach: from peaceful island strolls to snorkeling in clear waters, all capped with refreshing fruits and water on board.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the knowledgeable guides—the reviews consistently praise the skipper’s friendliness and attentiveness—and the flexibility to enjoy the stops at your own pace, whether for photos, swimming, or just relaxing. The music playlist and sunshade add a touch of comfort, making the boat feel like a floating retreat.

One possible drawback? The duration is short, so don’t expect an exhaustive exploration—this is a quick but memorable snapshot of the Dalmatian coastline. It’s best suited for those who want a light, fun day rather than a deep cultural or historical tour.

Who is this for? If you’re after a value-packed, scenic outing with snorkeling and island visits, this is a solid choice. Families, singles, or couples wanting a relaxed yet adventurous half-day will find it perfect.

What Makes This Tour Special?

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Visiting Unexplored Nature and Secluded Islands

The tour’s main appeal is the chance to see Croatia’s coast from the water and visit less crowded spots. The stops at Village Preko, Island Oljak, and Island Galevac are carefully chosen for their peaceful scenery and authentic charm. The reviews highlight how these stops feel off the beaten path, offering a genuine taste of local life and scenic beauty.

Speed and Convenience

Traveling by speedboat, you cover more ground in less time, allowing for more stops and more swimming. Our source reviewers loved how the fast ride meant more time for exploration and relaxation. As one review puts it, “We always got to the viewpoints first,” which meant quiet snorkel spots before larger crowds arrived.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

Snorkeling gear is included, and the clear waters make for excellent underwater viewing. Reviewers mention enjoying swimming in turquoise bays, often describing the water as crystal clear and perfect for a dip. If you’re into water-based fun, this tour provides multiple opportunities—sometimes even at hidden gems away from the mainstream tourist routes.

Authentic Culture and Relaxation

Stops at islands with stone houses and monasteries give a peek into local life and history, even if briefly. The calm and scenic locations are ideal for taking photos, strolling, or simply lounging in the sun with a local flavor.

A Day in the Itinerary

Starting Point: Obala kneza Branimira 24

The tour begins next to a gas station, making it easy to find. It’s advisable to arrive 15 minutes early to settle in and get comfortable. The boats are well-equipped with life jackets, and a tourist guide is on hand to answer questions and keep the mood upbeat.

Sightseeing Cruise & First Stop: Village Preko

The first part involves a 15-minute cruise, giving you a taste of the Adriatic while cruising toward your first island. Preko is charming—famous for its beaches and authentic Croatian atmosphere—and your guide will likely point out local sights along the way.

Island Oljak

The second stop is a one-hour visit to Oljak, a tiny island with stone houses and peaceful landscapes. It’s perfect for photo opportunities and a relaxed stroll. Several reviews mention how they appreciated the free time here to explore or take a dip.

Island Galevac

Next is Gavevac, home to a historic monastery. This stop provides a cultural touchstone amid the natural scenery, and you get time to explore the island and perhaps enjoy a swim in a tranquil bay.

Second Cruise Segment & Final Stop: Preko

The cruise continues with shorter segments, and the last major stop is Preko again, offering another 80-minute window for swimming, snorkeling, and local exploration.

Hidden Gems and Final Return

The tour finishes with a 45-minute stop at a lesser-known spot for more snorkeling, giving you a final splash before heading back to your starting point. The return cruise is around 15 minutes, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day.

Included & Practical Details

The tour includes snorkeling gear, a skipper, life jackets, and water bottles. Tour guides communicate in English, Croatian, and Slovenian, ensuring a good understanding of what’s happening on board. The price is very reasonable, especially considering the multiple stops, water, and fruits provided.

Meeting points are straightforward—next to the gas station at Obala kneza Branimira—and the activity ends back there. The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind.

What to Bring

• Sunscreen with high SPF
• Sun hat and sunglasses
• Swimwear and towel
• Camera for capturing stunning views

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides who inform and entertain. Many mention how the small group size makes it more personal and enjoyable, with one reviewer noting, “The guide adapted the activity to our needs, and it was perfect.” Several mention the quiet, uncrowded snorkeling spots—a rare find in popular holiday spots—allowing for peaceful swims.

The value for money is a recurring theme, with travelers appreciating the generous free time and refreshments. One reviewer summed it up: “The tour was always the first at viewpoints, so we could snorkel in peace before other boats arrived.”

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic, and budget-friendly way to explore Croatia’s coast. It’s ideal for families, solo travelers, or groups of friends looking for a fun, active half-day. If you enjoy snorkeling, island-hopping, and crisp water, you’ll find plenty to love.

It’s also perfect if you’re short on time but want to see several locations without feeling rushed. Conversely, if you’re after an in-depth cultural or historical tour, you might find this too light on detail.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This speedboat tour offers fantastic value—a lively trip, scenic views, and plenty of water fun—all for a very reasonable price. The friendly guides and well-chosen stops make it a memorable experience, especially for those wanting to maximize their day on the Dalmatian coast.

While it’s a shorter experience, that’s part of its charm: you get a taste of Croatia’s waters and islands without the fatigue of a full-day trip. It’s informal, flexible, and geared toward travelers who love adventure but also appreciate a relaxed vibe.

If your goal is a fun, budget-friendly, and authentic water-based excursion that hits all the highlights, this tour is likely to leave you with lasting memories—and perhaps a desire to return for a longer stay.

FAQ

Q: How long does the tour last?
A: The tour lasts around 4 hours, including stops and cruising time. Be sure to check the specific starting time when booking.

Q: What is included in the price?
A: The price covers snorkeling gear, a skipper, boat trip, life jackets, water bottles, and a tourist guide.

Q: Do I need to bring anything?
A: Yes, bring sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, swimwear, and a camera to capture your trip.

Q: Is there a minimum age for children?
A: The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year, but otherwise, it’s appropriate for most age groups, especially active kids who enjoy swimming.

Q: Can I cancel if my plans change?
A: Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Q: Is this tour suitable for groups?
A: Absolutely. The tour is ideal for small groups, families, and friends. Group discounts are often available.

Q: What type of boat is used?
A: A speedboat designed for comfort and safety, with shade and space for relaxing.

Q: What languages are guides available in?
A: Guides communicate in English, Croatian, and Slovenian.

In all, this speedboat trip from Zadar offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, water fun, and cultural glimpses, making it a great choice for travelers wanting to experience Croatia’s coastline without the fuss of a full-day tour or heavy expense.

You can check availability for your dates here: