Zadar: Island Hopping Half-day Boat Tour with Snorkeling

If you’re looking to get out of the busy streets of Zadar and enjoy some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, this half-day boat tour offers a relaxed yet adventurous way to do just that. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of an experience packed with picturesque scenery, welcoming local atmospheres, and fun snorkeling spots.

What we love about this tour is the chance to explore two small islands with rich stories, the inclusion of snorkeling gear for underwater adventures, and the presence of a local skipper who adds a personal touch. Plus, the calm, crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic make for perfect swimming and exploring.

One potential drawback? The docking fee of 10 euros per person isn’t included in the base price, which is typical for island excursions but still worth planning for. This tour is ideal for families, friends, or couples who want a light, scenic escape from the city while still enjoying comfort and authenticity.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience with a friendly skipper and small island visits
• Excellent snorkeling opportunities in clear Adriatic waters
• Flexible schedule with morning or afternoon departures
• Short, manageable tour perfect for a relaxed afternoon
• Inclusion of snorkeling gear and life vests for safety and convenience
• Additional cost for docking (10 euros per person) which is paid on arrival

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Zadar Island Hopping Tour

This tour offers a sweet combination of relaxed sightseeing, underwater fun, and local culture, perfect for those wanting a balanced taste of the Dalmatian coast without spending a whole day at sea. It spans approximately four hours, with enough time to explore the highlights comfortably.

Starting out in Zadar: Setting Sail

The adventure begins at a meeting point behind Restaurant Fosa Zadar, just beside the Tornado sign. Arriving 10 minutes early ensures you’re on time to board the traditional boat, which is described as comfortable and well-maintained, with the added reassurance of disinfected snorkeling equipment and life vests.

The boat glides smoothly from the waterfront, passing along the coastline while the skipper shares local insights that enrich the experience. Expect a gentle 25-minute cruise to reach the first island, Osljak.

Osljak: Croatia’s Smallest Inhabited Island

Osljak makes a compelling first stop. At just a tiny island with quiet charm, it’s an ideal escape from the crowds. You’ll have about 45 minutes on foot to explore, which is enough to soak in its peaceful atmosphere and take some photos of the rustic, untouched scenery. Reviewers like Maria mentioned, “It was an amazing experience,” highlighting how the small island’s serenity stands out.

This island is noted not just for its tranquility but also for its historical significance — a unique spot where you can step into a piece of Croatia’s small-island life. It’s perfect for a stroll, a quick photo op, or simply soaking in the sea breeze.

Preko: Local Charm and Underwater Discovery

After Osljak, the boat heads to Preko, which offers a lively contrast. With around 2 hours and 15 minutes, it’s an ample window to relax, eat, or explore. Many visitors enjoy a walk to the island’s center, where cafes and restaurants invite you to linger over a coffee with a sea view. Alternatively, you can relax on the small sandy beach, which is perfect for kids and adults alike.

A key highlight here is the chance to snorkel again. The reviewer Diana mentioned, “we had a chance to choose alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages,” indicating that the trip offers some flexibility. The clear waters around Preko are ideal for underwater exploration, and the provided gear makes it easy for all ages to enjoy.

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Relaxing and Snorkeling in the Adriatic

Snorkeling is a central part of this tour, and based on reviews and descriptions, the waters are crystal clear — a feature that makes exploring the underwater life rewarding. The snorkel gear is always on board, cleaned, and disinfected, so travelers can feel safe and ready to jump in.

Many guests appreciate the opportunity to cool off in the calm seas, whether during the stops at Osljak or Preko. It’s a fantastic way to break up the sightseeing with some physical activity and fun.

The Return Journey

After exploring Preko, the boat departs for the final cruise back to Zadar, enjoying panoramic views along the coast. The boat’s gentle glide offers some perfect photo moments of the shoreline, and the overall experience is described as both relaxing and scenic.

What To Expect: The Practicalities

This tour is designed to be straightforward and enjoyable for a wide audience. The group size isn’t specified, but the sense of intimacy implied by the small islands and local skipper suggests a cozy experience, likely with a friendly vibe.

Duration: Around 4 hours in total, making it ideal for a half-day escape. The departure times are flexible — morning or afternoon — so you can pick what fits your schedule.

Cost: The tour price includes snorkel gear, life vests, a skipper’s expertise, and fuel. The additional 10-euro docking fee is paid on arrival, covering all stops, which is a common expense for island tours.

Transportation: The boat is a traditional vessel that provides a comfortable ride, with enough space for lounging and moving around during the cruise.

Food & Drinks: Not included in the price, but the stop in Preko offers the option to enjoy local cafes, making it easy to grab a quick bite or coffee.

Authenticity and Comfort: What Travelers Say

Reviewers highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides and captains. Maria mentions, “Our guide Luca and the boat’s captain have been super kind and professional.” That level of personal attention can truly elevate a trip.

Comfort is also a recurring theme; Sandra described the boat as “safe and comfortable,” which matters when you’re spending several hours on the water.

The snorkeling aspect gets high marks, with many appreciating the disinfected gear and the quality of the waters — crystal clear and perfect for underwater exploration.

The Local Guides and Their Contributions

Although not much detail about individual guides is provided, reviewers consistently praise the kindness, professionalism, and helpfulness of the crew. Diana appreciated the recommendations given for dining and ice cream, which illustrates the guide’s local knowledge and personal touch.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families with kids, thanks to the gentle waters and snorkeling gear. It’s equally suited for couples or friends looking for a relaxed day with stunning scenery and light adventure.

If you’re after authentic local atmospheres and scenic landscapes without long hours at sea, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy snorkeling, photo opportunities, and small island visits.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

The value here isn’t just about the price but about the quality of the experience. You get a good mix of gliding along the coast, exploring tiny islands, and underwater adventures, all led by knowledgeable locals. The small group setting and flexible schedule make it feel personal and well-organized.

For those who want a relaxed, scenic escape with plenty of opportunities for underwater discovery and island walks, this tour is a charming choice. The reviews strongly suggest it’s a reliable, well-loved activity that leaves many visitors with lasting memories.

While the docking fee adds a small extra expense, it’s a standard part of this type of tour and doesn’t detract from the overall value.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including stops at the islands and cruising time.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling gear, life vests (if needed), a skilled skipper, and fuel are included. The only extra is the 10-euro docking fee per person, paid at the start.

Are the snorkeling equipment and life vests provided?
Yes, they are always on board, disinfected, and ready to use.

Can I choose the departure time?
Yes, the tour offers both morning and afternoon departures — check availability for specific times.

Is food included?
No, food is not included. However, there are opportunities to buy refreshments and enjoy local cafes during the stops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The clear waters and short stops mean it’s family-friendly, with plenty of fun for kids and adults alike.

To sum it up, this Zadar island-hopping tour combines scenic beauty, local charm, and underwater fun into a compact, well-organized package. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Dalmatian life, with the bonus of snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re seeking a memorable family outing or a relaxed day with friends, this trip offers a genuine slice of Croatian coastal life.

You can check availability for your dates here: