Zadar: Private Tour to Ugljan, Osljak and Galevac – half day

Crystal-clear water starts right off Zadar. This private half-day speedboat to Ugljan, Ošljak, and Galevac turns the Adriatic coast into a moving beach, with a skipper, snorkeling gear, and a comfortable 9-meter motor boat. I love the easy snorkeling time, and I also like the private-only boat feel for a small crew of just you and your people, not a shuffle of strangers. One drawback to consider: this isn’t a great fit if you need wheelchair access, since it’s a boat day and you’ll be getting in and out for swim stops.

The vibe is relaxed, scenic, and geared for real water time, not just sitting on a sightseeing route. If you get a skipper like Drago, you’ll likely hear the same theme from other guests, friendly, professional, and focused on safety while you enjoy the coast. Plan on bringing swim gear and snacks, because you’re out for about four hours and you’ll want to be ready for each stop.

Key things I’d write on your mental checklist

• Private-only boat experience on a 9-meter motor boat, with fuel, skipper, and gear included
• Multiple swim and snorkeling stops, including about 2 hours 45 minutes of water time across the day
• Snorkeling masks, life jackets, and paddle boards ready for you on board
• Ošljak and Preko feel like authentic island rhythm, not just quick look-and-go photo stops
• Skipper support you can trust, with Drago specifically praised for safety and comfort
• Flexible route order depending on the 4-hour option you take (Kostanj first or Frnaza order)

Why This Zadar Speedboat Feels Different From Typical Island Tours

Zadar’s islands can be explored slowly, but this kind of private speedboat day works because time is tight and the water is the point. In about four hours, you get several changes of scenery, plus repeated chances to jump in and cool off. It’s a nice choice if you want the Adriatic views without burning a full day on ferries.

I especially like the mix of pace and downtime. You’re not racing nonstop. You get transit by boat between stops, then real breaks on islands and coves where you can swim, snorkel, and stretch.

The private setup matters more than you might think. When it’s only your group on the boat, you can settle into your own rhythm, ask questions directly, and spend less time coordinating around other people’s schedules.

The 4-Hour Route: Kostanj, Ošljak, and Preko, Plus Galevac Area

Your day starts with pickup in Zadar at one of two points: Obala kneza Branimira 20A in Crodux, or the other option listed as Crodux. After that, you head out on the water quickly, with the first stretch taking about 15 minutes by speedboat.

From there, you’ll do stops that focus on swimming and snorkeling, then island time. The route can follow one of two 4-hour patterns, which keeps it flexible depending on conditions and planning.

One pattern runs from Zadar to Kostanj, then to Ošljak, then to Preko. The other runs from Zadar to Frnaza, then to Preko, then to Ošljak. Either way, the story arc stays similar: water time first, then island exploration, then a return with a scenic photo and viewing window at Preko.

That Preko portion is a smart anchor for your trip. It gives you a break from the repeated swim cycles and a chance to see village life on Ugljan, with free time plus sightseeing and scenic views along the way.

And yes, the tour name and highlights include Galevac. In practice, this is the kind of itinerary that uses the islands around Zadar and Ugljan as a network, so you’re not stuck at just one spot.

Stop-by-Stop: What Each Part of the Day Actually Does for You

1) The first swim and snorkeling window (fishing village area)

Right after the initial boat ride, you hit a fishing village stop where you get swimming and snorkeling for about 45 minutes. This is a good opener because it sets the tone quickly. You’re on the Adriatic early, gear is available, and you can judge how conditions feel before the later, longer swim breaks.

Practical note: this first stop is ideal for people who aren’t sure how comfortable they feel snorkeling. If you’re a beginner, you can keep it simple, float, look around, and enjoy the clearer shallow areas without turning it into a long session.

2) Kostanj beach time, including a full hour in the water

Next, you move by speedboat for about 10 minutes, then spend about an hour at Kostanj at pješćana Plaža u uvali. This is the longest single stretch of snorkeling and swimming in the schedule, so it’s usually where you’ll want to linger, soak up the sun, and make the most of visibility.

Why I like this stop: it’s built for time. A full hour gives you breathing room to rinse off, swim at your pace, and not feel like you’re being rushed through the best part.

3) Ošljak break time plus another 1-hour swim and snorkel

After another short boat transfer of about 15 minutes, you reach Ošljak for about an hour total, including break time plus swimming and snorkeling for about an hour. This is your island rhythm stop, where you shift from water-first to island-first.

This part works well if you like a bit of variety. You can take a moment on land between swims, then jump back in when you want the cooler, calmer sensation of being in the sea again.

4) Preko photo stop, free time, and sightseeing

Finally, you get to Preko for about an hour, with a photo stop, free time, sightseeing, and scenic views on the way. This is your buffer between island coves and the return ride.

Preko is the kind of place where free time makes sense. You can wander at your own pace, grab a snack, or simply enjoy the slower shoreline feel after a more action-filled boat sequence.

Swimming and Snorkeling Time That Fits Real Life

Snorkeling on an island can be hit or miss if the timing is awkward. Here, the schedule is structured with repeated water sessions: about 45 minutes at the first swim spot, then about an hour at Kostanj, then about another hour at Ošljak. That totals close to 2 hours 45 minutes of water time, depending on how you pace yourself.

What makes it feel good is that you don’t have just one make-or-break session. If you’re feeling tired after the first swim, you still get the longer stretches. If the first water stop surprises you with how clear it is, you’ve got more time later.

Gear is part of the package: diving masks and life jackets are included, plus paddle boards. It’s also a private group setup, so you’re less likely to feel pressured to keep up with others when you’re adjusting fins or resetting your breathing.

If you’re new to snorkeling, don’t overthink it. Start with a slow float, keep your face calm, and look for movement in the water rather than trying to chase it. If you’re more experienced, this kind of schedule gives you a chance to explore without needing a full day at sea.

Onboard Comfort: The Stuff You Actually Notice

A day like this can either feel smooth or chaotic, depending on the boat setup. This one is designed for comfort and small conveniences that make the day easier.

You’re on a 9-meter long motor boat, and the trip includes a fridge, plus life jackets, paddle boards, and masks. A fridge may sound minor, but on a sunny Adriatic day it matters, especially if you bring drinks and food for between swim sessions.

Also, this is a private group, only you on the boat. That reduces friction. There’s no waiting your turn for space, no worrying about where someone else put their towel, and it’s easier to keep your phone, bag, and swim essentials organized.

One thing I’d call out from guest praise: the skipper experience is a major part of the overall comfort. When you have a captain who’s calm and professional, you relax faster. In feedback, Drago is specifically mentioned as a standout, with guests highlighting safety and kindness throughout the ride.

What to Bring (So You’re Not Guessing During the Day)

You’ll do better if you pack like it’s a beach day that happens to move. Bring sunglasses and a sun hat, plus sunscreen. Wear swimwear you’re comfortable in, and plan on bringing a towel.

Food and drinks matter, since you’re out about four hours and you’ll want something ready for the breaks. The good move is to bring snacks you like, plus easy drinks, and rely on the fridge on board if you want them kept cooler.

For shoes and dry time, the tour info only flags swim and beach items, so you’ll likely want something simple for walking during brief free time at Preko or any short island moments.

And one practical rule: bikes aren’t allowed. That’s normal for a boat excursion, but it means you should plan to keep it strictly to what works for a speedboat day.

Price and Value: Is $64 Per Person Worth It?

At $64 per person for about four hours, the value comes from what’s included and how the time is used. You’re not paying just for transportation. You’re getting the boat, the skipper, fuel, snorkeling gear, life jackets, paddle boards, plus fridge access. You also get the big qualitative benefit of a private-only boat experience.

If you split the cost of a boat rental plus a skipper plus gear, $64 can start to feel more reasonable, especially because your day includes multiple swim sessions rather than one short stop.

This is also a good deal structure if you’re traveling with friends or family who want flexibility. Private setup can be especially worth it when you know your group would rather not wait around, and you want to spend your time in the water.

One caution on value: if your group doesn’t plan to swim or snorkel much, you might feel like you paid for parts you didn’t fully use. This tour is best when you actually want to get in.

Who This Tour Suits Best (And Who Should Rethink It)

This one fits best if you want an action-light, water-forward half day: boat ride for scenery, plus multiple swim and snorkeling breaks, plus a bit of island time. It’s a strong choice for couples, friends, and groups who like sea time and want an easy plan that feels personal.

It can also be a great special-occasion option, since the vibe is fun, the boat is comfortable, and the itinerary is built for memorable moments and photos.

If you require wheelchair access, this isn’t suitable, since it’s not designed around that need. Also, if you hate being on boats or get seasick easily, you’ll want to think hard before booking. The schedule is short, but it still involves boat transfers between stops.

Should You Book This Private Zadar Island Speedboat Tour?

Book it if your ideal half day includes swimming, snorkeling, and calm Adriatic views, and you want it delivered in a private format with a skipper. You’re likely to appreciate the way the schedule spreads water time across the day, so you’re not stuck with just one chance to enjoy the sea.

I’d skip it or at least reconsider if you can’t do boat access comfortably, or if your group doesn’t really care about getting into the water. For everyone else, this is a clean, efficient way to experience Zadar’s island side without turning your day into a logistics puzzle.

FAQ

How long is the private tour?

The tour lasts 4 hours.

How much does it cost?

The price is listed as $64 per person.

Where do pickups and drop-offs happen?

Pickup and drop-off are offered at two locations: Obala kneza Branimira 20A (Crodux) and Crodux.

Is the group private?

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

Does the tour include snorkeling gear?

Yes. Diving masks are included, and snorkeling is part of the experience with swimming stops.

Are paddle boards included?

Yes. Paddle boards are included.

Is there a live guide, and what language do they speak?

A live tour guide is included, and the language listed is English.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

No. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I bring, and are bikes allowed?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat, plus food and drinks if you want. Bikes are not allowed.