Cruising out from Zadar by boat is one of the easiest ways to see the Adriatic without wasting your day in transit, and this half-day island route is built for swimming and sea views. I especially like the fact that you get a private skipper and a boat that’s comfortable enough to just hang out while coastlines slide past.

The schedule also gives you real water time—snorkeling sessions that last long enough to actually enjoy them, not just a quick dip. The only real drawback to consider is that you’re on the water for 4 hours total, so it’s not a slow, dry, sightseeing-only trip—if you want mostly walking tours, you may prefer something else.

Key things I’d pack your brain with

• Private boat time: only your group on a 9-meter motor boat with skipper
• Snorkeling built into the route: multiple stops with long enough swim windows
• Ošljak + Ugljan connection: you get island time plus a land break in Preko
• Practical boat comforts: fridge on board and life jackets included
• Extra ways to play: paddle boards and snorkel masks are part of the package
• Two route options: you’ll travel via either Kostanj–Ošljak–Preko or Frnaza–Preko–Ošljak

Why This Zadar Speedboat Tour Works So Well

Zadar has the kind of coastline that looks great from shore, but it gets way better once you’re on the water. This tour is a smart half-day option because it trades museum time for actual sea time. You’re not stuck watching other boats go by—you’re the one moving through the archipelago at a relaxed pace.

I also like how the day balances movement with breaks. There’s enough cruising to connect the islands, but the stops are timed for you to cool off, snorkel, and breathe for a minute. And because it’s private, your skipper can shape the experience to your group’s comfort level and interests.

One more thing that matters: the skipper. One reviewer specifically called Drago an excellent captain, and the repeated theme across the feedback is that the hosts feel professional and welcoming. That’s not just nice to hear—it makes a difference when you’re in open water, even if the seas are calm.

Route Choices: Kostanj–Ošljak–Preko vs Frnaza–Preko–Ošljak

You’ll start from Zadar, and the tour runs as one of two route patterns for the 4-hour session. Depending on the day’s plan, you’ll go in the direction of either:

• Kostanj → Ošljak → Preko, or
• Frnaza → Preko → Ošljak

Even with two options, what stays consistent is the core experience: boat cruising around Zadar’s island neighborhood, one or two longer swim/snorkel sessions in scenic spots, plus time on Ošljak and a stop in Preko.

For you, this route flexibility is a real value. It means your skipper can pick the best-feeling order based on where conditions look easiest and where the group will get the most enjoyable water time.

The 4-Hour Flow: Pickup, Boat Ride, and the First Real Swim Stop

The timing is tight in a good way. You’ll get picked up at one of two locations in Zadar: Obala kneza Branimira 20A (Crodux) or Crodux. From there, you’ll board your speedboat and set off.

Expect a short boat ride—around 15 minutes—before your first main stop. The first water window is a swim and snorkeling session of about 45 minutes at a fishing-village area. This is typically where you’ll get the first taste of the archipelago: calm open-water moments on the boat, then the switch to mask-on, float, and slow exploration underwater.

A quick practical note: you’ll want your essentials easy to grab before you reach the snorkeling stop. Bring sunscreen and your sunglasses where you can reach them without rummaging. You’ll also be glad you packed a towel, since you’ll likely want it right after the swim.

Kostanj’s Sandy Cove: The Longest Snorkel Session

Next comes Kostanj, with a visit to pješćana Plaža u uvali—a sandy cove setting that’s made for staying in the water longer. The snorkeling and swimming block here is about 1 hour, which is a sweet spot.

Why that matters: lots of boat tours give you a quick dip and call it snorkeling. Here you get enough time to adjust your breathing, swim a bit at your own pace, and enjoy the water without feeling rushed. If you’re a beginner, that extra time helps you relax. If you’re more confident, it gives you room to explore more before moving on.

There’s also a subtle advantage to doing a sandy-cove stop in the middle of the trip: it gives you an easy landing when you’re tired from the earlier swim. Your group can pause, rest, and reset before heading to Ošljak.

Ošljak: Break Time on the Island With Sea Time Included

After the Kostanj stop, you’ll cruise again (another short ride, roughly 15 minutes) and reach Ošljak. Here you get a break time plus swimming and snorkeling for about 1 hour.

Ošljak is the kind of island stop that helps the day feel like an actual island day, not just a series of water stops. You get the boat-to-island change of pace, which is great if your group includes people who want to alternate between floating in the sea and taking a breath on land.

If you want to make the most of this part, think about your order of operations: start with the swim/snorkel window early, then use the island time to relax and take photos when the light hits the coast nicely. This is also a good moment to snack, especially if you’ve been out in the sun all morning.

Preko on Ugljan: Photo Stop, Free Time, and a Scenic Way Back

Your final featured stop is Preko, located on Ugljan. You’ll have about 1 hour here with a mix of:

• a photo stop
• free time
• sightseeing
• scenic views on the way

This is a smart ending to a half-day boat tour. After several swim sessions, it’s nice to get a little land time where you can stretch, stand on firm ground, and enjoy the island’s little-town vibe at an unhurried pace.

Also, Preko works well as a photo stop because you’re looking back toward the sea and the coastline you just experienced. Even if you don’t plan a long walk, you’ll likely get enough time for a few clear shots and a quick stroll.

The tour ends back at the drop-off points—again either Crodux or Obala kneza Branimira 20A—so you won’t be stranded across town.

The Boat Setup: Private Skipper, Comfort, and Included Gear

This is one of the biggest reasons the tour earns such strong feedback: it’s private, meaning you’re not sharing the boat with random strangers. Your group is the group. The tour description also emphasizes that it’s private group, only you on the boat, which changes the entire feel of the trip.

You’ll be on a 9-meter long motor boat with a skipper. Comfort matters on a water tour, and private boats often make the difference between tolerating a ride and actually enjoying it.

Here’s what’s included that helps you get in the water faster:

• Snorkel masks (included)
• Life jackets (included)
• Paddle boards (included)
• A fridge (included)
• Fuel and boat costs (included)

That fridge detail is small, but it’s a quality-of-life upgrade. If you bring drinks, you’ll likely be grateful you can keep them cooler for later in the trip. Life jackets being provided also means you don’t need to track down anything rental-related before you go.

And since a review mentions hosts taking preferences into consideration, I’d treat the skipper as your point person. If your group wants more time floating vs more snorkeling, you can likely steer the day that way.

What to Bring for a Smooth Swim-Heavy Half Day

This tour is water-centered, so pack like you’re going to spend time in and around the sea. The list is straightforward, and you’ll be happier if you don’t leave things behind.

Bring:

• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Food and drinks (snacks help)
• Sunscreen
• Beachwear

Two practical tips from how this kind of trip runs:

First, wear something quick-dry when you’re heading back to land. Second, keep your sunscreen easy to access—reapplying on the water is easier if it’s within reach, not buried in your bag.

Price and Value: Is $64 Per Person Fair for This Trip?

At $64 per person for about 4 hours, the best way to judge value is not just the duration—it’s what you’re getting for that time.

You’re paying for:

• a private boat experience
• a skipper who handles the route and timing
• fuel and the boat itself
• included snorkeling gear (masks)
• life jackets
• paddle boards
• a fridge (so your drinks don’t turn into lukewarm regret)

If you’re traveling with friends or family, this price starts to look very reasonable because you’re splitting the cost of a private boat rather than renting equipment and piecing together transport on your own. And because the trip is short, you’re not paying for a full day away from Zadar—your evening stays flexible.

If you’re solo, it can still be worth it if you specifically want private skipper time and don’t want to hunt down rentals. Just do the math honestly based on your group size.

Who This Tour Fits Best (And Who Might Skip It)

This tour is ideal if you:

• want snorkeling and swimming as the main event
• like the idea of seeing islands from the water
• enjoy flexible breaks rather than nonstop walking
• want a private boat with a skipper and included gear

It’s also a great choice for groups. One review mentioned a hen party loving the experience, which tells me the vibe can be fun and celebratory without feeling chaotic.

There’s one clear mismatch: it’s not suitable for wheelchair users. If mobility is a concern, you’ll want to look for another activity that doesn’t rely on boarding and moving around a boat.

Should You Book This Zadar Islands Speedboat Tour?

If you want an efficient, genuinely enjoyable half day in Zadar—one where your core memories are about sea time, snorkeling, and views rather than long transfers—then yes, I’d book it. The private format, included gear, and the fact that you get multiple swimming windows make it feel like more than a standard boat ride.

Before you go, be honest about your preferences: this is a sun-and-water experience. If you’re hoping for lots of long, dry sightseeing and history, this won’t be that kind of day.

If you are ready to trade shore crowds for a private skipper and calm Adriatic moments, this is the kind of tour that can make your Zadar trip feel bigger than it is.

FAQ

How long is the Zadar private tour to Ugljan, Ošljak and Galevac?

It lasts 4 hours.

Where do pickup and drop-off happen?

There are two pickup/drop-off options: Obala kneza Branimira 20A (Crodux) and Crodux.

Is this tour private or shared?

It’s a private group tour, with only you on the boat.

How much time is spent swimming and snorkeling?

You’ll have multiple swim/snorkeling sessions: about 45 minutes at the first stop, about 1 hour at Kostanj, and about 1 hour at Ošljak.

What gear is included for water activities?

The tour includes snorkeling masks, life jackets, paddle boards, and a fridge on board.

Do I need to bring towels and sunscreen?

Yes. You should bring a towel, sunscreen, swimwear, and beachwear.

What food and drinks should I plan for?

Bring food and drinks if you want snacks or meals during the trip, as the tour description lists food and drinks as what to bring.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I cancel or pay later?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.

If you’d like, tell me your travel month and group size, and I’ll help you decide whether the snorkeling-heavy plan will fit your pace.