Ošljak, Preko, and Ugljan by speedboat turns Zadar’s coastline into a string of swim stops with time to snorkel and relax in real coves. I like the mix of snorkeling spots and laid-back breaks, plus the easy, guided pacing led by skippers like Sara and Lovro (and guides I’ve seen on similar departures, including Tomislav and Dubravko). One thing to plan for: you’ll pay an extra 10 EUR docking fee for adults on top of the tour price.

If you’re after the kind of Croatia day that feels more like a sea outing than a “check-the-box” tour, this one fits. It’s a 4-hour format, with an afternoon option that can align with a sunset return, and it’s run in English with life jackets provided.

Key highlights worth circling

• Snorkeling kit included so you can focus on the water, not the gear hunt
• Ošljak and Preko swim time at separate stops, not one rushed moment
• Homemade liqueur and cold drinks aboard (plus ice tea and water)
• Island sightseeing plus photo stops without turning the day into a bus tour
• Personal feel on the water, with captains taking time to share and even help with photos

Why Zadar’s island loop by speedboat feels so much better

Zadar is great for walking and viewpoints, but the real payoff comes when you trade streets for salt air. This half-day speedboat tour puts you on the water fast, then keeps swapping scenery—rocky underwater edges, sheltered bays, and island towns you can actually step into for a breather.

You’re not just watching the coast from the deck. You stop, suit up, and get time in the sea. That matters in Croatia, where the Adriatic can look calm from shore but turn out to be the main event once you’re floating over rocks and sand.

The other smart part is the pacing. Instead of one long ordeal, you get multiple shorter segments—cruise, swim, snorkel, snack/drinks, then move on again. It keeps energy up and helps you avoid the “stuck on a boat with nothing to do” feeling.

Meeting at Obala kneza Branimira: the simple start that gets you moving

The tour starts at Obala kneza Branimira 16 in Zadar, near a gas station. That’s convenient because you’re not hunting across town for a hidden dock—once you find the meeting point, you’re basically on your way.

From there, you’ll take a short speedboat ride (about 20 minutes) before the first real stop. That quick hop is useful for two reasons: it gets you away from the busiest shoreline early, and it also helps you acclimate before the swimming portion.

If you want the smoothest experience, show up with your basics ready: hat, towel, and water shoes. The sea is the star, but your comfort decides whether you enjoy it.

Stop 3 at Ošljak: one hour of swim-and-snorkel time

Ošljak is your first main island stop, with around an hour that includes sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling. This is where the tour’s whole promise becomes real—crystal-clear water, underwater rocks, and the chance to see fish up close through the snorkeling masks.

Here’s why I think this stop is the backbone of the trip: you’re not waiting until late in the day to get in the water. You get a solid first taste of the Adriatic while you’re fresh, and you can settle into the rhythm—jump in, snorkel for a while, then relax on the boat before the next move.

Practical note: snorkel time is only as good as your comfort in the water. If you’re someone who hates slippery entries, water shoes are a big deal, and a towel ready for the ride afterward makes everything feel less rushed.

Ugljan’s two-part feel: cruising views, then a longer swim stop

After Ošljak, you cruise toward Ugljan (about 15 minutes). Then you get a Ugljan photo stop with an aperitif, sightseeing, and another longer block for swimming and snorkeling—again about one hour.

This structure works. The first Ugljan segment gives you a chance to see coastline and take photos without feeling like you’re standing around waiting. Then the longer swim window gives you time to actually settle into the water and keep exploring underwater edges.

The aperitif and drinks here aren’t just a nice-to-have. When the sea day includes snorkeling, a cold drink between swims makes the whole plan feel gentler. It also means you’re not burning energy solely on adrenaline and hopping in/out of the water.

If you like souvenirs, photos, and small “proof I was here” moments, Ugljan’s stop-and-photo portion is one of the times that tends to deliver.

Stop 6–7 at Preko: free time, a walk, and more water time

Preko is where the tour turns from pure sea time into a small island break. You’ll cruise for about 15 minutes to Preko, then you get a longer block (about 70 minutes) that includes break time, photo stop, visit/free time, sightseeing and a walk, plus swimming and snorkeling.

That’s a lot packed into one stop, and it’s also why Preko is ideal for mixed groups—people who want sea action and people who want to stretch legs and look around town.

A key detail: you’re not just dropping anchor and calling it done. You’ll have time that includes walking/sightseeing. Even if you keep it simple (quick photos, a relaxed stroll), it breaks up the day nicely and helps you return to the boat feeling refreshed instead of soaked and waiting.

One more small thing I’d watch for: there’s also a “class” listed during this segment. The exact content isn’t spelled out, so don’t plan your schedule around learning something specific—but it does suggest the guide/captain may share some practical info while you’re stopped.

Cruising back to Zadar: 30 minutes that can line up with sunset

On the return, you’ll cruise back toward Zadar for about 30 minutes and arrive back near Obala kneza Branimira 16. If you book an afternoon departure, the tour can align with a sunset-style return, which is when the sea views tend to look their best.

Even if sunset isn’t your goal, the ride back is worth treating as part of the experience, not just transport. You’ll have time to settle, drink something cold, and look at the island shapes fading against the sky.

And there’s a real chance of wildlife sightings—some departures have been lucky enough to see dolphins on the way back. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s the kind of bonus that can make the last stretch feel like the payoff.

What you actually get in the water: snorkeling gear and life jackets

This tour includes snorkeling equipment plus life jackets. That’s a big value piece because it removes one of the annoying day-hassle items: tracking down mask/snorkel rental before you leave Zadar.

In real terms, it also changes how confident you can be getting in. You don’t have to worry about being the person who forgot gear or didn’t pack the right kit.

You’ll also have water, ice tea, and homemade liqueur aboard. So you can treat the snorkeling stops like a series of activities rather than a single “either you love it or you don’t” moment.

Bring what the tour asks for:

• Hat
• Towel
• Water shoes
• Cash

Water shoes matter more than people think on rocky entry points. Cash matters because the docking fee is separate.

The vibe on board: drinks, homemade liqueur, and a skipper who talks

The mood tends to be relaxed and friendly, and that’s largely because the skipper and guide role feels hands-on. Names you might hear in different departures include Sara and Lovro as skippers, and in other similar runs you may also encounter guides like Tomislav or captains such as Dubravko.

A standout repeated theme: homemade liqueur. The tour includes it along with cold drinks, and in some cases it’s been described with playful flavor comparisons (like cherry-bakewell style). Even if you’re not a liqueur person, you’ll have soft drinks and ice tea options.

Another thoughtful touch: some skippers take photos while you’re in the water and send them afterward. That’s not something you should rely on for your entire vacation plan, but it’s a nice memory service if it happens on your day.

Price and value: $31 + docking fee (plan for both)

The tour price is listed at $31 per person for a 4-hour guided speedboat outing. That’s already positioned as good value because it bundles:

• boat tour and skipper
• snorkeling equipment and life jacket
• water, ice tea
• homemade liqueur
• guided stops around the islands

The one extra cost you should account for is the docking fee: 10 EUR for adults and 5 EUR for children up to 11. Since that’s not included in the $31, treat it like a small “day-use tax” for stopping at ports and coves.

When you compare the total, the value still makes sense if you’re the type who wants swimming and snorkeling without renting gear or paying separate transfer costs. If you only want photos from the boat and never plan to swim, it might feel more expensive than you expected—but for sea-lovers, it’s a fair deal.

Who this tour fits best (and who should rethink it)

This is a strong pick if you:

• want snorkeling in the Adriatic with provided gear
• like island-hopping with multiple swim stops
• prefer a shorter half-day plan over a full-day cruise
• enjoy simple onboard hospitality like cold drinks and homemade liqueur

It may not be the best match if you:

• are pregnant (not suitable)
• are under 2 (not suitable)
• are over 95 (not suitable)
• plan to bring a bike (bikes are not allowed)

If you’re traveling with friends, couples, or anyone who wants a break from museums and restaurant meals, this sea format works well. It also tends to suit people who want a guided day but don’t want their schedule micromanaged.

Should you book the Zadar half-day speedboat snorkeling tour?

Book it if you want a practical, high-reward Croatia day: guided stops around Ošljak, Ugljan, and Preko, real time in the water, and included snorkeling gear. I’d choose it especially if you’re visiting in warm months when swimming is comfortable and you want a sea outing that’s short enough to still enjoy Zadar afterward.

Skip it or think twice if you hate the idea of getting wet, or if you’re trying to avoid any extra fees like the docking charge. Also, if you’re not comfortable with swim-based activities, you may find the tour’s focus doesn’t match your pace.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the half-day speedboat tour around Zadar?

The total duration is 4 hours.

Where is the meeting point for the tour?

The meeting point is near a gas station at Obala kneza Branimira 16 in Zadar.

What snorkeling equipment is included?

Snorkeling equipment is included, along with life jackets.

Are drinks and water included during the tour?

Yes. Water and ice tea are included, and homemade liqueur is also provided. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic options are available.

Is the docking fee included in the tour price?

No. A docking fee is not included: 10 EUR for adults and 5 EUR for children up to 11.

What should I bring with me?

Bring a hat, towel, water shoes, and cash.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?

No. It’s not suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or people over 95.

Is there a cancellation option if my plans change?

There is free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.