Zadar: Island-Hopping, Swimming & Snorkeling SpeedBoat Tour

Set sail with the Zadar: Island-Hopping, Swimming & Snorkeling SpeedBoat Tour, a lively half-day adventure that offers a taste of Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast for $52 per person. This tour, operated by Alamar Travel, takes approximately 4 hours and features visits to several intriguing islands, including Ugljan, Oljak, and Galevac. It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy active excursions, beautiful waters, and learning about local sights in a small-group setting.

While the tour’s brand-new status means it has fewer reviews, the positive feedback from similar offerings highlights a strong focus on stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and flexible itineraries. It is especially suitable for travelers comfortable with water activities, as swimming and snorkeling are core parts of the experience. Keep in mind that children under 10, pregnant women, and those with specific health concerns** should consider other options, as the tour involves active stops and some physical exertion.

Key Points

• Offers a 4-hour, half-day boat trip exploring Dalmatian islands from Zadar.
• Includes stops at Ugljan, Oljak, and Galevac, each with unique features.
• Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters with snorkeling gear provided.
• Guided by knowledgeable skippers who share insights about the islands’ history.
• Drinks such as water and beers are included, along with WiFi on board.
• Weather-dependent adjustments may alter the itinerary for safety or comfort.

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Starting Point at the INA Gas Station in Zadar

The tour begins at the INA gas station in Zadar, where the modern speedboat is scheduled to arrive 15 minutes early. Guests are advised to arrive on time, as the boat cannot wait long at the meeting point. The group size is small, creating an intimate experience that fosters interaction with the guide and fellow travelers. The departure process is straightforward, with all safety equipment, snorkeling gear, and amenities ready for an exciting day on the water.

Exploring Ugljan Island: First Stop for Swimming and Snorkeling

The first destination on this tour is Ugljan Island, a favored spot for swimming in turquoise, crystal-clear waters. Here, the focus is on relaxing in the gentle waves while enjoying the natural beauty of the Adriatic. Snorkeling with the provided gear reveals colorful fish and underwater scenery. The water activity is well-suited for those with an intermediate activity level, making it accessible but still energetic.

The scenery in Ugljan is complemented by the peaceful ambiance, perfect for sunbathing or simply soaking in the views. Since the tour is flexible, the guide can adjust the time spent here based on weather conditions and group energy, ensuring everyone gets a memorable experience.

Visiting the Smallest Croatian Inhabited Island: Oljak

Next, the island of Oljak offers a chance to learn about local history and enjoy the stunning park-forest that covers it. Oljak is notable as Croatia’s smallest inhabited island, covered by dense vegetation including pines, cypresses, holm oaks, and olive trees. The guide provides insights into the area’s history, adding depth to the visit.

On this island, guests can walk around and admire the scents of Mediterranean herbs, or opt to jump back into the turquoise waters for more swimming and snorkeling. The island’s peaceful environment makes it a quiet refuge compared to busier tourist spots, offering a chance to connect with nature in a relaxed setting.

Strolling Through Preko and Exploring Galevac Island

The tour continues with a visit to the village of Preko on Ugljan, a lively spot that provides a glimpse of local life and culture. From Preko, the boat heads to Galevac Island, surrounded by shallow sandy beaches. The island’s picturesque charm is ideal for a walk around, where fragrant Mediterranean herbs fill the air.

Here, visitors can learn about the area’s history while enjoying free time to swim and snorkel around the clear waters. The shallow beaches make Galevac accessible for a variety of water activities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

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Additional Hidden Gems and Flexible Itinerary

Depending on weather conditions, the guide may suggest visiting additional natural attractions or secret spots not listed in the standard itinerary. This flexibility ensures that the experience remains safe and enjoyable regardless of weather changes. The tour’s small group size and personalized approach mean that guides can tailor the stops to the group’s interests and conditions, sometimes discovering quieter, less crowded spots.

Practical Details: Included Amenities and Equipment

Guests enjoy a range of amenities onboard, including all safety equipment, snorkeling gear, and a Bluetooth music speaker for a relaxed atmosphere. A GoPro underwater camera lets you capture underwater moments, while WiFi on board keeps everyone connected. The ice-box is stocked with water and beers, making hydration and refreshment easy during the trip.

The tour covers fuel costs and passenger insurance, with the only extras being berthing or anchoring fees in protected areas, payable cash at check-in. The cost per person is $52, offering good value for the range of activities and scenery.

How the Tour Handles Weather and Safety

Since the tour is weather-dependent, the itinerary can be modified to ensure safety and comfort. If conditions are poor, the full refund or rescheduling options are available, providing peace of mind for travelers. The active nature of the tour means that participants should have a moderate fitness level; it’s not suitable for very young children or those with health concerns such as back, heart, or pregnancy restrictions.

The Experience with a Small Group and Personal Touch

The tour features a small-group format, which enhances the overall experience by enabling more personalized guidance and interaction. The guides, including Marin and others, are praised for their friendly, informative attitude. They actively explain the history of the islands, show cozy spots, and adapt plans as needed depending on the weather, ensuring a relaxed but engaging experience.

Why Choose This Speedboat Tour from Zadar?

This half-day tour stands out for its combination of active water activities, beautiful island scenery, and informative guides. The small-group setting fosters a friendly atmosphere where everyone can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring at their own pace. The inclusion of drinks, safety gear, WiFi, and a GoPro adds extra comfort and fun.

The price point of $52 makes it an accessible option for travelers looking for a quick yet comprehensive introduction to the Dalmatian islands. The flexibility in stops and the possibility of discovering hidden spots make it a versatile choice for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 10 years due to the active water-based stops and physical nature of the activities.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, providing flexibility in planning.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and any personal items for comfort. Snorkeling equipment is provided.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting and ending at the same meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The price covers boat and skipper, safety and snorkeling equipment, WiFi, water and beers, fuel, and passenger insurance.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary can be adjusted or modified for safety. If canceled, you can choose a different date or receive a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
Additional fees for berthing, anchoring, or protected areas are payable cash at check-in.

Is the tour physically demanding?
It requires intermediate activity level; participants should be comfortable with swimming and being active during stops.

Where exactly do I meet the boat?
The meeting point is at the INA gas station in Zadar, with the boat arriving 15 minutes early.

Can I customize the experience?
The small group nature allows for some flexibility, and guides are happy to adapt the stops based on weather and group interests.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby