Zadar: Vintage Boat Cruise to Ugljan, Oljak & Galevac

Thinking about exploring Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast? This vintage boat cruise from Zadar offers a peaceful escape with island hopping, swimming, and scenic views—all in just four hours. Whether you’re a couple craving a romantic afternoon or a family looking for a leisurely adventure, this trip promises a blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and a taste of local life.

What we love about this experience is how it combines the charm of a vintage vessel with modern comforts, plus the chance to see some of the quieter corners of the Zadar archipelago. The boat’s spacious layout and shady areas make it ideal for unwinding, and the stops at Ugljan, Oljak, and Galevac truly showcase Croatia’s scenic coastal beauty. A potential consideration might be the need to bring your own towels since they aren’t included, but that’s a small detail compared to the overall value. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy gentle exploration, authentic island scenery, and good company.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal views and a scenic panoramic cruise past Zadar’s Old Town
• Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters at Kostanj Beach on Ugljan
• Visit historic sites like the 15th-century Franciscan monastery on Galevac
• Enjoy unlimited local wine, water, and snacks onboard for a relaxing experience
• Comfortable vintage boat with shade, sundeck, and Wi-Fi
• Suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers who prefer a peaceful, scenic outing

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

If you’re seeking a gentle, scenic adventure that balances sightseeing with relaxation, this tour hits a sweet spot. The journey begins at Bregdetti ul. 42, where you’ll hop aboard a beautifully renewed vintage boat. Imagine stepping onto a vessel that combines tradition with modern touches—ample shade, a spacious sundeck, and all the comforts of a luxury cruise. The boat’s design maximizes comfort while maintaining its nostalgic charm, making it an inviting vessel to spend half a day on.

Starting with Zadar’s Iconic Sea Organs and Old Town

The cruise kicks off with a panoramic tour of Zadar’s Old Town, passing by the famous Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun installation. These landmarks are more than just photo ops—they’re part of Zadar’s innovative approach to blending art and engineering. The Sea Organ, in particular, offers musical notes played by the sea’s waves, creating a soothing soundtrack as you glide past. We loved the way this sets a relaxed, almost meditative tone before heading out into the islands.

Ugljan and Kostanj Beach: A Perfect Swim Spot

After the initial sightseeing, your boat will head to Kostanj Beach on Ugljan. This Blue Flag bay is known for its calm, clear water—ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The nearby artificial fish reef adds an interesting underwater feature for snorkelers, making the experience both fun and refreshing. From reviews, it’s clear that this stop is highly valued; one guest called it a “quiet bay” perfect for sunbathing and unwinding.

Scenic Ride Around Oljak Island

Next, the vessel cruises around Oljak, Croatia’s smallest inhabited island. Here, you’ll enjoy views of traditional stone houses and the peaceful walking paths that beckon for a quiet stroll. The scenery provides excellent photo opportunities, and the relaxed pace makes it easy to soak in the tranquil atmosphere. This stop is particularly popular among travelers who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

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Galevac: Monastery, Pine Forest, and Natural Beauty

The final notable stop is at Galevac, a tiny islet near Preko. It’s home to a 15th-century Franciscan monastery, surrounded by lush pine trees and inviting waters. Visitors can explore the monastery, walk around the islet, or simply enjoy a moment of serenity while soaking in the natural beauty. According to reviews, this peaceful setting leaves a “lasting impression,” especially when combined with the clean waters and aromatic pine forest.

The Itinerary in Detail

The cruise’s itinerary optimizes both sightseeing and leisure:

• Start at Bregdetti ul. 42, the meeting point, where you’ll board your vintage vessel.
• Guided tour of Zadar’s Sea Organ and Old Town (about 30 minutes). This initial segment offers a quick yet immersive introduction to the city’s coastal charm.
• Ugljan for about an hour, including a photo stop, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the scenic coast of this peaceful island.
• Stop at Oljak for roughly 30 minutes—perfect for photos and a quick walk along the island’s traditional stone houses.
• Galevac for about an hour, combining a guided visit to the monastery with free time for swimming, walking, or simply relaxing in the pine forest.

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, giving you a full but relaxed taste of Croatia’s Dalmatian islands.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price is unlimited wine, which is a fantastic touch—it’s a great way to toast the day and enjoy the scenery. You’ll also get a welcome drink, water, snacks, and safety gear. The crew, led by an experienced local skipper and guide, makes the experience informative without overwhelming, sharing stories about the islands and their history.

Additional perks include free Wi-Fi onboard, making it easier to share your photos or keep in touch. The tour also offers meeting point assistance and island hopping in style.

What’s not included? Just the simple essentials like towels—you’ll want to bring your own to dry off after swimming. Also, since the tour involves walking and swimming, it’s best suited for guests comfortable with these activities.

Why the Value Matters

At around four hours, this tour offers a compact yet immersive experience. The price point reflects this balance—an affordable way to see several islands, enjoy local drinks, and relax on a vintage vessel. Compared to similar experiences, the inclusion of unlimited wine and snacks enhances the value, making it a worthwhile option for travelers wanting a hassle-free, cultural, and natural highlight of their Croatian trip.

The boat itself, being renovated but with a vintage charm, adds to the overall appeal. The comfort features—shade, spacious deck, Wi-Fi—ensure you won’t just be crammed into a small boat but will have space to lounge and take in the views.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who prioritize scenic beauty and relaxation over adrenaline or lengthy excursions. Families with older children or teenagers will appreciate the gentle pace, swimming opportunities, and the chance to explore historic sites. Couples will enjoy the romantic vibe, especially with unlimited wine and stunning views.

It’s not ideal for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, given the boat ride and swimming activities. However, for those looking to unwind, see some of Croatia’s quieter islands, and enjoy local hospitality, this cruise offers genuine value.

The Sum Up

In sum, this vintage boat cruise from Zadar is a delightful way to explore Croatia’s coastline with style and comfort. It combines scenic sightseeing, peaceful island visits, and refreshing swims with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The inclusion of wine, snacks, and a knowledgeable guide makes it feel like an authentic local experience rather than just another tour.

If you’re in Zadar and craving a half-day escape that balances natural beauty with cultural touches, this trip is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for those who enjoy gentle adventures, stunning scenery, and good company. Travelers seeking an authentic, scenic, and laid-back Croatian experience will find much to love here.

FAQs

Is the boat comfortable and suitable for relaxing?
Yes. The vintage boat has been renewed for comfort, with ample shade, a spacious sundeck, and modern amenities like Wi-Fi, making it ideal for relaxing.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, snacks if needed, and water. Towels are not included, so plan accordingly.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 4 hours, with starting times available upon check availability. It includes stops for swimming, sightseeing, and exploring islands.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those with children comfortable with swimming and walking activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there is unlimited wine and water, along with welcome drinks and snacks onboard, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

Is the tour guided?
Absolutely. An experienced local skipper and guide lead the trip, providing insights about the islands and ensuring a smooth experience.

This cruise offers a genuine taste of Croatia’s coastal charm—beautiful scenery, peaceful stops, and a touch of local flavor—all from the comfort of a vintage vessel. It’s a memorable way to spend a half-day exploring the quiet side of the Zadar archipelago.

You can check availability for your dates here: