Zadar: Ugljan, Oljak, and Preko Islands Speedboat Tour

Explore the Dalmatian Islands with a Speedboat Adventure from Zadar

This 4-hour speedboat tour from Zadar takes you to three captivating islands: Ugljan, Oljak, and Preko. Operated by Zadar Boat Tours, this small-group experience—limited to 10 participants—offers an intimate look at some of Croatia’s most scenic spots. The tour combines crystal-clear swimming and snorkeling stops with visits to charming villages, all led by a knowledgeable local skipper.

Starting at a convenient meeting point on the Zadar waterfront, you’ll hop aboard a brand-new speedboat and enjoy a dynamic, lively pace through the Dalmatian archipelago. The tour’s highlights include three distinct stops, each with unique scenery and activities, making it ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded island experience without overextending the day.

While the tour’s 4-hour duration keeps it accessible, it also means you’ll want to be prepared for a busy, activity-packed trip. The itinerary emphasizes scenic views, marine life, and free time at each stop for swimming, exploring, or relaxing. This tour particularly appeals to those eager to combine adventure, local culture, and beautiful scenery in one streamlined outing.

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Key Points

• Duration: 4-hour small-group tour departing from Zadar with up to 10 participants
• Stops: Ugljan, Oljak, and Preko with swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing
• Highlights: Sandy beach at Kostanj, visits to charming villages, and marine life viewing
• Transport: Brand-new speedboat with scenic routes and expert local skipper
• Inclusions: Snorkeling gear, drinks, and free time to explore each location
• Suitability: Not for children under 2, pregnant women, or non-swimmers

The Speedboat Itinerary for a Dynamic Island Experience

The tour begins at Zadar Boat Tours meeting point on the waterfront, where the speedboat is ready for departure. After a quick 15-minute ride, the first stop is Kostanj sandy beach. Here, travelers enjoy an hour of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing at a small but stunning bay. The guide provides snorkeling gear for underwater exploration, and the scenic views en route set the tone for an enjoyable day.

Following this, the boat makes another 15-minute trip to Oljak, a smaller island with notable scenic beauty. Visitors get around 45 minutes here for photo stops, swimming, and snorkeling. Marine life viewing is also part of this leg, giving a glimpse into the underwater world of Croatia’s coastline. The guide leads the group through scenic routes, highlighting local sights along the way.

The final stretch takes the boat to Preko, on Ugljan Island. During 75 minutes here, travelers can walk through the village, take photos, or swim in the nearby waters. The stop provides a relaxed atmosphere where you can wander, enjoy local scenery, and even grab lunch or a drink at local establishments. After this, a quick 15-minute ride brings the group back to Zadar.

Visiting Kostanj Beach: A Sandy Bay Oasis

The Kostanj sandy beach on the first stop is often praised for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery. Being a small bay, it offers a peaceful setting perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The tour includes free time to enjoy this beach, which is especially popular for its scenic views and marine life.

The marine environment here is lively enough to make underwater exploration worthwhile, especially with snorkeling gear provided. The scenic route to Kostanj also offers views of the Dalmatian coast and neighboring islands, making the journey itself part of the experience.

Oljak: The Smallest Inhabited Croatian Island

The ride to Oljak is a highlight, showcasing scenic coastlines and turquoise waters. As Croatia’s smallest inhabited island, Oljak offers a quiet, less crowded atmosphere. Visitors get approximately 45 minutes here, which is enough to take photos, swim in the clear waters, or simply soak up the tranquil island scenery.

Marine life viewing is part of the visit, and the quick photo stops allow for capturing the island’s natural beauty. The guide shares local insights and points out scenic spots, making the visit informative as well as relaxing.

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Exploring Preko Village on Ugljan Island

The last stop at Preko provides a charming village atmosphere with narrow streets, local shops, and scenic views. With about 75 minutes available, visitors can wander the streets, enjoy a meal, or dip into the waters for a final swim. The village’s local character and picturesque setting are frequently praised in reviews.

During this stop, travelers can appreciate views of the coastline and take advantage of the scenic surroundings for photos. The guide often shares local tips for a quick meal or drink, enhancing the relaxed vibe of the final visit.

The Comfort and Style of the Speedboat Ride

The tour uses a brand-new speedboat, ensuring comfort and safety throughout the four hours. The boat’s modern design and scenic routes provide a smooth, exciting ride across the Dalmatian waters. The skipper, a local expert, enhances the trip with knowledgeable commentary and friendly service.

Many reviews highlight the cleanliness and ease of boarding, with the boat providing ample space for a small group to relax, enjoy drinks, or listen to music. The cool box stocked with waters and beers adds a nice touch, making the experience feel personalized and relaxed.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The meeting point is clearly marked at the waterfront with the company logo visible. The coordinates are 44.11086654663086, 15.227725982666016 for easy navigation. The small group size of up to 10 people ensures an intimate experience, allowing for personal interaction with the skipper and more flexibility during stops.

The tour is suitable for travelers who want a personalized, less crowded adventure**. The English-speaking skipper makes communication smooth, and the flexible schedule allows for free time at each stop.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Snorkeling gear is provided for underwater exploration, while drinks such as water and beer are available on board. Travelers should bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen to ensure comfort during the various stops.

Pets are not allowed, and the tour is not suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or those with certain health or mobility issues. The tour’s physical demands are moderate, mainly involving swimming, walking, and standing during village explorations.

How This Tour Compares to Other Zadar Island Trips

This speedboat adventure emphasizes scenic routes, marine activities, and village visits, often praised for friendly guides and excellent value. Compared to other tours that might focus solely on wine or sunset views, this trip offers a balanced mix of adventure and cultural exploration.

The small-group format sets it apart from larger boat tours, providing more personalized attention. Its 4-hour duration makes it a good option for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable island experience.

Final Thoughts on the Ugljan, Oljak, and Preko Speedboat Tour

This small-group tour from Zadar offers a fun, scenic, and well-organized way to see Croatia’s islands. The stunning stops, marine exploration, and charming villages make it a top choice for those wanting a mix of adventure and culture in a short time.

The expert local skipper and modern speedboat enhance the experience, and the limited group size ensures everyone gets personal attention. The tour’s price point and included amenities, like snorkeling gear and drinks, provide great value.

While the 4-hour time frame means a quick pace, it ensures you get a taste of multiple locations without feeling rushed. This tour suits active travelers and family groups looking for a dynamic, scenic day out on the Croatian coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 4 hours, including all stops and transportation.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Zadar Boat Tours at the waterfront (coordinates: 44.11086654663086, 15.227725982666016).

How many stops are included?
There are three main stops: Kostanj sandy beach, Oljak, and Preko village.

What activities are included at each stop?
Visitors can swim, snorkel with provided gear, take photos, and explore local scenery and villages.

Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided as part of the tour.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen for comfort and protection.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 2 years, pregnant women, or non-swimmers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is alcohol provided?
You can enjoy water and beer available from the cool box on board.

What makes this tour stand out?
The small group size, local skipper, and diverse stops—from beaches to charming villages—make this a memorable, personalized experience.

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