Zadar: 3 Island Speedboat Tour & Blue Bay Swim with Drinks

A 4-hour speedboat tour from Zadar offers a lively and scenic escape into the Dalmatian islands. Priced affordably, this tour takes you to three distinct stops, including a crystal-clear bay, the smallest inhabited island Oljak, and the village of Preko, giving a well-rounded taste of coastal Croatia. With live guides, small groups, and free drinks, it promises an engaging yet relaxed experience suited for those eager to explore without a full-day commitment.

While there’s no on-board toilet, the tour’s focus on swimming, snorkeling, and exploring villages makes it ideal for active travelers and families alike. The speedboat ride offers panoramic views of the coastline, with a comfortable boat ensuring a smooth trip. The overall vibe emphasizes informative guides, friendly atmosphere, and scenic beauty, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a fun, half-day adventure.

Key Points

• Duration: 4 hours, with a mix of island exploration, swimming, and sightseeing
• Stops: Visit 3 islands including Oljak, Preko, and a secluded bay for swimming and snorkeling
• Inclusions: Free drinks onboard and small group size limited to 10 participants
• Departure point: Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6 in Zadar, with easy access from the waterfront
• Guide: Live English-speaking guide, praised for friendliness and helpfulness
• Price: Affordable, with the option to reserve now and pay later

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Departing from Zadar’s Waterfront for a Speedboat Adventure

The tour departs from Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, with boarding behind the restaurant Foa, opposite the city walls. The meeting process is straightforward: travelers are encouraged to send a location photo via WhatsApp if unsure about the spot. The boat, part of a fleet of three, offers a 15-minute speedboat ride across the waters, setting the tone for a lively and scenic trip.

This departure point is central, making it easy for visitors to find after a day of exploring Zadar’s old town or nearby attractions. The small group size keeps the experience intimate, ensuring individual attention and a lively atmosphere.

Exploring the Hidden Bay for Swimming and Snorkeling

The first stop on this half-day cruise is a secluded bay in the Zadar archipelago. Known for crystal-clear turquoise waters, this spot offers plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors often praise the natural surroundings and the calm, warm waters, perfect for a relaxing dip or underwater exploration.

This stop lasts about 50 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy the peaceful environment and take photos of the stunning scenery. Keep in mind, since this is a natural, unspoiled area, there are no facilities here, so bring your own towel, sunscreen, and change of clothes.

Visiting Oljak, the Smallest Inhabited Island

Next, the boat cruises for 10 minutes to Oljak, described as the smallest inhabited island in the area. Here, the landscape features traditional Dalmatian houses and scenic views. The free time on Oljak is ideal for walking around, discovering hidden corners, or simply relaxing on the pristine beaches.

The island’s quiet charm appeals to those interested in local culture and scenic landscapes. The brief one-hour stay allows visitors to explore comfortably before heading to the next stop, Preko.

Discovering Preko’s Village Life and Local Flavors

The next destination is Preko, a charming village reachable after a 15-minute speedboat ride. Here, visitors get a taste of local Croatian culture, with options to visit markets, enjoy local cafes, or stroll through narrow streets. This stop lasts about 75 minutes, giving ample time for shopping, cafe breaks, or a walk along the waterfront.

The guide often shares interesting insights into village life and Croatian traditions, making this a cultural highlight. Some may choose to purchase Croatian specialties or souvenirs before returning to the boat for the final stretch.

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Visiting Galevac Island and Its Quiet Beaches

Travelers can also opt to visit the Galevac island during this stop. The calm, less crowded beaches here provide an excellent setting for swimming and soaking up the sun. The narrow streets of Preko and the nearby island offer additional opportunities to explore and capture scenic photos.

This part of the trip emphasizes relaxation and authentic local scenery, with enough time to wander, swim, or simply unwind at the end of the day.

Returning to Zadar with Stunning Coastal Views

The final speedboat ride back to Zadar takes about 15 minutes, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and islands. During this relaxed journey, guides often share informative commentary about the region’s history, geography, and hidden spots.

As the tour concludes at the starting point Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, travelers can reflect on a balanced experience of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery, all packed into four hours.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Travelers should bring sun hat, sunscreen, towel, beachwear, and cash for souvenirs or snacks. Since there is no onboard toilet, it’s wise to use facilities before boarding or wait until the last stop. The boat is fast and open, so prepare for occasional sea spray if the weather turns windy.

This tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users, and there are restrictions on weight over 120 kg. The capacity is small, limited to 10 participants, which enhances the personalized feel of the trip.

The Role of Guides and Overall Atmosphere

The live English-speaking guides are frequently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness. Many reviews highlight guide Josip, Jure, and Zeiko as particularly engaging, sharing stories and answering questions with patience and humor.

Passengers often comment on the relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with guides providing plenty of drinks and ensuring everyone feels comfortable. The small group size fosters a personal and engaging environment, with many mentioning high satisfaction with the customer service.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Options

Multiple options are available for island-hopping around Zadar, but this 3-island speedboat tour stands out for its value for money, smaller groups, and the variety of stops. Some similar experiences include luxury speedboats or full-day trips, but this tour’s half-day length makes it accessible for those on tight schedules or looking for a quick yet rewarding adventure.

The tour also emphasizes snorkeling, swimming, and exploring, with free drinks included, making it more casual and relaxed compared to others. Travelers seeking a more personal, intimate experience will find this tour particularly appealing.

Final Thoughts on the Zadar Speedboat Tour

This 4-hour boat trip combines scenic cruising, multiple island stops, and time for swimming and exploring, making it a well-rounded option for those visiting Zadar. The affordable price, lively guides, and beautiful locations provide good value, especially praised by many reviewers.

While the lack of onboard toilet might be a minor inconvenience, the organized stops and friendly crew make up for it. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers who want a fun and scenic escape into Croatia’s coast.

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, ideal for travelers looking to explore the islands without a full-day commitment. It remains a popular choice for visitors eager to see the best of Zadar’s coastal landscape with ease and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 4 hours, including all stops and cruising time.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, with boarding behind the restaurant Foa, opposite the city walls.

Are drinks included?
Yes, free drinks are provided onboard throughout the trip.

Is there a toilet on the boat?
There is no toilet onboard, so it’s best to use facilities before boarding or wait until the last stop.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), towel, beachwear, change of clothes, and cash for souvenirs or snacks.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
This experience is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those over 120 kg. The boat is open and fast, so prepare for sea spray on windy days.

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

How many participants are on the tour?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small, friendly group.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic coastline, multiple stops for swimming and exploring, friendly guides, and free drinks makes this a popular, value-packed option for visitors to Zadar.

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