Islands Tour in Zadar by Speedboat

4 hours, 3 island stops, clear water. This Zadar islands speedboat tour gives you multiple chances to swim and snorkel around Ugljan’s coast, with easy time on land too.

What I like most is the combo of snorkel mask gear plus drinks, so you can get right in without fuss. The pacing also feels smart for a half-day trip, with short travel bits and real swim time at each stop. One thing to plan for: there is no toilet on the speedboat, and towels and food are not provided.

Key Things to Know Before You Hit the Water

• Small group (max 12): more room to sit and spread out, without feeling herded.
• Three water-focused stops: Pjescana Uvala, Preko, then a final swim stop with an option to go ashore at Kali.
• Snorkel-ready from the start: snorkel and mask are included, plus water and ice tea.
• Bring your own towel: none are provided, and you’ll likely want one after swimming.
• Docking fee extra: plan on a 10€ per person docking fee on top of the tour price.

Getting There: Zadar Dockside Meets a Small-Group Boat

This tour starts at Obala kneza Branimira 27A in Zadar, and it ends back at the same meeting point. That matters more than it sounds. You do not need to figure out a second pickup spot later, which keeps a 4-hour day from turning into a time-sink.

I also like that it is set up for a small group, with a maximum of 12 travelers. On a boat, that number changes the vibe fast. You tend to get more personal space, easier movement for boarding, and less waiting around when it is time to swap in and out for swimming.

You’ll use a mobile ticket, and the meeting point is near public transportation. So if you are staying in Zadar without a car, you are not stuck with complicated logistics. Still, this is a speedboat day, so you’ll want to arrive on time and be ready to step aboard quickly.

Stop 1 at Pjescana Uvala: Swimming Right Away in a Secluded Bay

After meeting the skipper, there is a short drive to the bay area by Ugljan. Then the first payoff hits: crystal-clear water in a spot that feels tucked away. This is the kind of start that gets you relaxed fast, because you do not spend half the trip waiting for the first swim.

At Pjescana Uvala, you get about 45 minutes. You can swim, or just enjoy the water from the boat with a drink. If you want to explore, snorkel mask gear is available, and there are rocks with coral that you can check out from the surface.

One practical detail: you have real freedom here. You choose your pace. Want an easy swim and a quick look around? Great. Want to stay mostly onboard and sip? Also fine. This is a good stop to settle in and decide how you want to spend the rest of the day.

Stop 2 in Ugljan and Preko: Beach Time Plus a Tiny Island Adventure

The second stop is on Ugljan, with a short speedboat ride to Preko, where you’ll have about 1 hour 30 minutes. This part adds variety. You still get water time, but you also get time to enjoy a town.

In Preko, you can head to the sandy beach or take the option that feels like a mini quest: Galevac, a small island just about 20 meters from the mainland. If you have the energy, you can swim over and explore. If not, you can still enjoy the shoreline and keep things comfortable.

I like that there are places to eat and drink around here. That means you can grab a coffee or a simple meal without the whole day being only boat and saltwater. The vibe stays laid-back, and you’re not locked into a single activity.

For many people, Preko is where the tour shifts from postcard water into real island living. You get sandy ground under your feet, casual places to pause, and enough time to feel like you actually touched the island rather than just passing it.

Final Stop: Rocky Coast at Pjescana Uvala or Seafood in Kali

After Preko, the tour returns to the area around Pjescana Uvala for the final stretch. You get about 1 hour at the last stop, and the structure here is smart.

Option one is another rocky beach where you can keep swimming and snorkeling in the same clear-water style. If you want to slow down, option two is a sail to Kali, a fishing village. Kali is known for seafood, and there’s a restaurant you can use for a meal. There is also a beach bar nearby with good music and cocktails, so this stop works both for food lovers and people who just want a relaxed final hour.

I see why this is popular. It gives you control at the end. If you spent the first half of the day exploring the water hard, you can go quiet and enjoy a meal in Kali. If you still feel energized, you can stay focused on the coast and make the most of that last swim window.

Either way, you end back at the meeting point, so your day stays contained and easy.

Price and Value: What the 25€ Really Buys You

The tour price is listed at 25€ per person, and it covers more than you might expect for a half-day. Included is fuel, the skipper, snorkel and mask gear, plus drinks: water and ice tea.

When I look at value, I also factor in what is not included. There is no toilet on the speedboat, and towels are not provided. Food is also on you. Car parking is not included, which matters only if you’re driving.

Then there is the docking fee, which is 10€ per person. That is the big “surprise” cost to budget for. So the more honest total to plan around is closer to 35€ per person once docking is included.

Still, that total makes sense if you consider what you get for it: a friendly skipper, a boat ride, multiple swim stops, and snorkel mask gear plus drinks. If you were trying to arrange boat time, gear, and transport on your own, the price would usually climb fast.

The Skipper, the Pace, and Why This Feels Fun

A lot of tours say friendly, but here it feels consistent. The skipper is a big part of the experience, and I’ve seen the name Bart come up in the reviews. People liked how attentive he was and how he managed the group so everyone got what they wanted.

The best part is the balance. You are not stuck doing one thing the whole time. You get multiple opportunities to swim or snorkel, plus breaks where you can just sit and enjoy the coast. At the same time, the day does not drag. Time management is tight enough that you still feel like you had a real half-day adventure by the end.

Another small detail that matters on a boat day: the boat is described as clean and well kept, and the group size stays small enough that seating feels comfortable. Also, there’s mention of good tunes during parts of the ride. That kind of casual atmosphere is exactly what you want on a short trip like this.

What to Bring (Because the Boat Does Not Provide Everything)

Since there’s no toilet on board, you’ll want to use facilities before you meet up. That sounds obvious, but on water tours it can be a dealbreaker if you forget.

Also plan to bring:

• Your own towel (not provided)
• Food or snacks if you want them, because food is not included
• Swimwear and sun protection (you’ll be in the sun while swimming and relaxing)

If you have questions about footwear, this matters because the stops include rocky coast. You might prefer water shoes if you are sensitive on rocks. That’s not a tour promise, just a practical suggestion.

And yes, there’s a drinks plan: water and ice tea are included, so you do not need to buy those on the spot. Just keep in mind that if you want beer, cocktails, or full meals, those are on you unless you choose the Kali restaurant option at the end.

Who Should Book This Zadar Islands Speedboat Tour

This is a strong choice if you want:

• A half-day on the water without planning a full day
• Multiple swim breaks, not just one quick stop
• Snorkel mask time with included gear
• A small-group feel (max 12)
• Flexibility, especially at the end with the Kali option

It also fits families who want a relaxed pace. I saw that a family with a 3-year-old enjoyed the day, which suggests the structure is manageable for people traveling with kids, as long as everyone is comfortable with boat movement and short swim windows.

Who might not love it is anyone who needs onboard toilet access, or anyone who wants a lot of guided history. This tour is about water time and island scenery, not long museum-style stops or deep cultural explanations.

Should You Book? My Practical Take

Book it if you want an efficient, fun way to experience Ugljan and the coast from the water in just about 4 hours. The combination of small group size, included snorkel gear, and multiple swim opportunities is the winning formula. Plus, if you end up in Kali, you get a clear path to a satisfying seafood meal.

Skip it or choose another option if you really dislike rocky swim areas, or if you need a toilet on board. Also budget the 10€ docking fee and remember that towels and food are not included.

If the weather is uncertain, keep an eye on conditions. This experience requires good weather, and when weather forces a change, you’ll be offered a different date or a refund.

If you’re in Zadar and want a quick hit of island life plus clear-water swimming, this one is an easy yes.

FAQ

How long is the Speedboat Islands Tour in Zadar?

The tour lasts about 4 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Obala kneza Branimira 27A, 23000 Zadar, Croatia and returns to the same meeting point.

What snorkeling gear and drinks are included?

Snorkel and mask gear are included, along with drinks: water and ice tea.

Is there a toilet on the speedboat?

No, there is no toilet on the speedboat.

Do I need to bring towels or food?

Towels and food are not provided, so you’ll want to bring what you need. There are restaurants and a beach bar at stops, depending on which option you choose.

Is there an extra docking fee?

Yes. A docking fee of 10€ per person is not included.