Zadar: Boat Tour to the Ugljan, Preko, and Oljak Islands

Discover the Beauty of the Zadar Archipelago on a Budget

The Zadar: Boat Tour to the Ugljan, Preko, and Oljak Islands offers an engaging day on the water for just $35 per person. This half-day adventure takes you through three captivating islands in Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, with visits to Ugljan, Galevac, and Oljak. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 29 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this trip both enjoyable and worthwhile. The tour is perfect for those seeking a relaxed day of swimming, snorkeling, and island exploration at an accessible price, with opportunities for all ages.

You’ll find crystal-clear waters, scenic views, and historic sites including a 15th-century monastery and a 6th-century church. The experience is led by a friendly local skipper, and the tour provides all the essentials like diving masks, life vests, drinks, and toilet facilities. While food isn’t included, the stops at beaches with nearby restaurants make it easy to grab a bite. Keep in mind there’s a docking fee of €10 per person payable in cash, and the trip does not include hotel pickup or drop-off.

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Key Points

• Affordable adventure at $35 per person for a half-day boat trip.
• Visit three islands: Ugljan, Galevac, and Oljak, with swimming and snorkeling stops.
• Historical sites include the 15th-century monastery on Galevac and the 6th-century Church of St. Mary on Oljak.
• The boat is small but comfortable, with areas for sunbathing and shade.
• Suitable for all ages, including families, and accessible for wheelchair users.
• Tour includes drinks, snorkeling gear, and a friendly skipper who is praised for his helpfulness.

The Starting Point: Zadar Foa Port

The adventure begins at Zadar Foa port, located behind the restaurant Foa on a pier. This central location makes it easy to access and confirms the tour’s convenience for travelers staying in or near Zadar. The return is to the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Guests are advised to bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, and sunscreen to make the most of the day. The tour runs in Croatian and English, catering to a diverse group of visitors.

Exploring Ugljan: The Largest Island

The tour visits Ugljan, known for its picturesque scenery and traditional Mediterranean architecture. Although some reviews note that the boat may not stop at Ugljan itself, the overall experience emphasizes island exploration and swimming opportunities. Ugljan’s natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for relaxing on the boat or enjoying a swim if the schedule allows.

Galevac Island: A Historic and Scenic Stop

Galevac, also called Kolji, is a highlight for its old church and monastery, which make for interesting sightseeing. Located opposite Preko, Galevac is ideal for swimming and touring. The ship’s proximity to Galevac allows for short visits to appreciate its historical charm and serene beaches.

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Oljak: The Smallest Inhabited Island with Rich History

Oljak Island stands out as the smallest inhabited island along the Croatian coast. Its traditional Mediterranean architecture and historic sites like the 6th-century Church of St. Mary and a 16th-century windmill attract history enthusiasts. The waters around Oljak are perfect for fishing and diving, offering a chance to swim and explore in a quiet, scenic setting. The island’s small size and peaceful ambiance make it ideal for leisurely walks and water activities.

Swimming and Snorkeling Opportunities at Every Stop

One of the main attractions of this tour is the opportunity to swim in the clear waters at three different spots. The first stop, OtriBay, features rocky shores, pebble beaches, and sandy bottoms—great for snorkeling, fishing, and swimming. Jaz Beach in Preko is a sandy beach with shade-providing trees and facilities like restaurants and sun loungers, making it a popular spot for families. The waters around Oljak and Galevac are noted for their diving and swimming appeal.

The Boat: Comfort and Convenience

The boat used for the tour is described as small but pleasant, with ample space for sunbathing at the front or relaxing in the shade at the back. Diving masks and life vests are provided, ensuring safe swimming and snorkeling for all participants. The skipper is praised for being friendly, helpful, and fluent in English, making the experience more engaging and comfortable.

Costs, Inclusions, and Additional Fees

The price of $35 per person covers the boat, fuel, skipper, masks, vests, and drinks (juice, water, beer). The docking fee of €10 per person must be paid in cash upon arrival, with children up to 10 years paying €5. Food and hotel transfers are not included, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or buy at stops.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is rated as suitable for all ages. Reviews highlight that people in wheelchairs can participate, thanks to the helpfulness of the crew. The small boat size makes it a cozy and manageable experience, especially for families with children or those seeking a relaxed day on the water.

Booking and Cancellation Flexibility

Booking can be done with the option to reserve and pay later, offering flexibility. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for easy adjustments to travel plans.

Final Thoughts on the Ugljan, Galevac, and Oljak Islands Boat Tour

This tour provides excellent value for travelers looking to see multiple islands in one afternoon. The combination of scenic views, historical sites, and swimming stops creates a balanced experience suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers. While the small boat means fewer amenities, the friendly skipper and well-organized stops compensate with personalized service and memorable sights.

Overall, it’s a reliable choice for those wanting a relaxed, scenic, and affordable day exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. The positive reviews underscore the friendly atmosphere, informative guides, and beautiful surroundings that make this tour a worthy addition to any Zadar itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts about half a day, providing enough time to explore three islands and enjoy swimming and sightseeing.

Does the tour include food?
No, food is not included. However, beach stops like Jaz Beach offer restaurants and facilities where snacks and drinks can be purchased.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for all ages. Children can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the islands, and the boat’s size suits families and small groups.

Can I participate if I am in a wheelchair?
Yes, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users, with help available from the crew to assist with boarding and disembarking.

What should I bring?
Guests are advised to bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, and sunscreen to stay comfortable and prepared for water activities.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour provides juice, water, and beer as part of the experience.

Is there a dress code or specific gear needed?
Comfortable casual clothing, swimwear, and sunscreen are recommended. Snorkeling masks are supplied.

How do I pay the docking fee?
The €10 per person fee is paid cash upon arrival at the beginning of the tour.

What is the cancellation policy?
Bookings can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is Zadar Foa port, and the return is to the same location after the tour.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those seeking a budget-friendly, scenic, and engaging day in Croatia’s coast, with friendly guides and beautiful island stops.

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