From Zadar: Half day island tour Ugljan, Oljak

If you’re cruising through Dalmatia and want a taste of Croatia’s stunning coastal islands without committing to a full-day adventure, this half-day island tour from Zadar hits the spot. It’s a perfect blend of scenic boat rides, refreshing swims, and charming village exploration—all packed into just a few hours. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a private group, this tour offers a flexible, intimate way to experience some of the area’s best spots.

What we really love about this trip is the chance to relax on a sandy beach, soak in spectacular views, and get personalized insights from a knowledgeable skipper—without feeling rushed. The boat is brand-new, ensuring a comfortable ride, and the flexible itinerary can be tailored to your preferences. Plus, the inclusion of a welcome aperitif sets a friendly, inviting tone.

One consideration might be the limited duration—if you’re craving a full-day adventure or more extensive island hopping, this might feel a bit brief. But for a quick, well-organized escape, it’s ideal. This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, authentic taste of Dalmatian islands with expert guidance and beautiful scenery.

Key Points

• Fast-paced but comprehensive: Perfect for a quick immersion in island life.
• Private group experience: Personal attention from the skipper makes it special.
• Includes swimming and sightseeing: Refreshing dips and charming village walks.
• Flexible itinerary: The skipper can adapt destinations based on your preferences.
• Good value: Combines boat rental, fuel, and a welcome aperitif in one package.
• Ideal for nature lovers and those short on time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This half-day tour from Zadar is designed to give you a taste of Croatia’s coastal beauty without demanding a full day away. It lasts about four hours, with flexible starting times depending on your schedule. The experience kicks off at Put Klementa, a well-known marina that’s easy to locate via Google Maps, so there’s no stress about finding the meeting point.

The boat itself is brand new, ensuring a comfortable, smooth ride. Accompanied by a professional skipper who speaks both English and Italian, you can anticipate friendly, informative commentary about the islands you visit. The boat is private, meaning your group can relax and enjoy the trip without the crowd.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Departure from Put Klementa

After a quick safety briefing and introduction, the boat departs with anticipation building. The first stretch is a 20-minute speedboat ride, giving you an initial taste of the open sea.

Stop 2 & 3: Scenic Speedboat Rides

The following two 20-minute rides take you along the coast and across the channel, offering plenty of opportunities for photos—whether it’s the shimmering water, rugged cliffs, or charming villages lining the shore.

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Stop 4: A Shorter Ride to Oljak

A 10-minute cruise brings you to the tiny island of Oljak, a quiet spot perfect for relaxing and soaking up the tranquility. Here, you might find the chance to enjoy a swim or just take in the views of the water lapping against the rocks.

Stop 5: Preko Village and Scenic Stopover

Next, your boat arrives in Preko, a lively yet authentic village on Ugljan Island. This stop lasts about an hour, giving you time to stroll through narrow streets, snap photos, and enjoy the scenic views. Reviewers mention the charm of Preko, with one noting it as “a pleasant place for sightseeing and walking,” and the guide providing interesting explanations about the local culture.

Stop 6: Return Ride and Final Views

A 20-minute boat ride leads you back toward Zadar, passing more picturesque coastlines and hidden coves. The journey offers plenty of opportunities to relax, chat, and enjoy the sea breeze.

Stop 7: Return to Put Klementa

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, leaving you refreshed and with a camera full of memories.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers boat rental, fuel, taxes, and a welcome aperitif, making the experience straightforward and hassle-free. You’ll have a knowledgeable skipper at your service, who can suggest exclusive spots or customize the route if desired.

However, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so bringing your own snacks or beverages is advisable—especially if you plan to spend more time relaxing on the beach or in the village. Snorkeling equipment isn’t provided, so if you’re eager to explore underwater life, take your own along.

Meeting Point & Practical Details

The meeting point is straightforward: follow the address Put Klementa, where a marina awaits. The exact Google Maps pin ensures you’ll find it easily. Be sure to arrive on time—latecomers might miss the boat, and the skipper emphasizes punctuality to keep the schedule on track.

The activity ends back at the same spot, so logistics are simple. The tour is offered in English and Italian, making it accessible for most travelers.

How to Make the Most of Your Tour

Bring essentials like passport or ID, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and sunglasses. Since the trip involves water activities, a sun hat and water are also recommended. Don’t forget cash for any optional extras or souvenirs, and be punctual to enjoy the full experience.

The tour is private, so it’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized adventure.

Authentic Experiences & Insights

According to a reviewer who had the pleasure of traveling with skipper Joe, the experience was “pleasant and calm,” with refreshments and cold drinks on board, making the cruise relaxing and fun. Joe’s ability to provide interesting explanations and his friendly demeanor added a personal touch that really elevated the trip.

Another traveler appreciated the stunning views and the opportunity to swim and fish, calling the experience “exceptional.” Such feedback underscores the value of a knowledgeable guide and a well-planned route that balances sightseeing and relaxation.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the price includes boat rental, fuel, taxes, and a welcome aperitif, it’s a competitively priced way to see multiple islands in just a few hours. The private group setting means more personalized service, and the flexible itinerary can be tailored to your interests—whether you want more beach time, sightseeing, or a quiet cruise.

While it’s not a full-day adventure, the richness of the stops, the comfort of the boat, and the scenic beauty make this a worthwhile option for those short on time but eager to experience Croatia’s coast.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxed, authentic island experience with minimal planning. It suits nature lovers, photographers, or anyone wanting a gentle escape to the Dalmatian islands. It’s also perfect if you want to combine a boat ride with exploring charming villages and enjoying a swim in crystal-clear waters.

However, it might not be suitable for non-swimmers, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, as water-based activities and walking are part of the experience. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness, take precautions before setting sail.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 4 hours, including all stops and travel time.

What is included in the price?
The package covers boat rental, fuel, taxes, and a welcome aperitif. Food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and optional extras are not included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Put Klementa marina, with clear directions provided via Google Maps.

Is this a private group experience?
Yes, the tour is designed for private groups, ensuring personalized attention.

What should I bring?
Bring passports or ID, sunscreen, swimwear, towels, sunglasses, water, cash, and a sun hat for comfort.

Can I customize the route?
The skipper can adapt the itinerary based on your preferences, providing a more personalized trip.

Is the boat suitable for everyone?
While the boat is new and comfortable, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, people with back issues, mobility impairments, or non-swimmers.

Is there flexibility in the start time?
Yes, check availability for different starting times—just ensure punctuality to avoid missing the boat.

What about cancellation policies?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This half-day island tour from Zadar offers a fantastic, hassle-free way to explore some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands. The combination of scenic boat rides, charming villages, and swimming opportunities makes it a well-rounded experience perfect for those short on time but eager for authentic coastal adventures. The knowledgeable guide, comfortable boat, and flexible itinerary ensure you’ll leave with memorable moments and stunning photos.

If you’re craving a relaxing escape to the Dalmatian coast where you can enjoy nature, local culture, and the sea breeze all in a few hours, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value personalized service and want to avoid crowded group tours.

In short, for a manageable yet immersive experience that showcases Croatia’s natural beauty, this tour delivers excellent value and a truly memorable outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: