From Zadar: 3 magical stops with a cold drink

From Zadar: 3 Magical Stops with a Cold Drink — A Full Review

Planning a day on the water around Zadar? If you’re after a mix of stunning scenery, a bit of adventure, and some well-deserved relaxation, this speedboat tour might just hit the spot. It offers a chance to escape the busy city and discover Croatia’s quieter coves, with three carefully chosen stops that balance scenic beauty and chill-out time.

What immediately drew us in are the promise of quiet, beautiful bays and the inclusion of cold drinks on board. Both are ideal for unwinding without feeling rushed — perfect if you’re looking to refresh your mind and body in a short window. Plus, the trip runs at a reasonable price ($27 a person), making it accessible for most travelers.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite straightforward and doesn’t include meals beyond snacks on the boat, so if you’re craving a full local meal, you’ll want to plan ahead. Also, the 4-hour duration means you’ll hit some busy spots, but the smaller group and flexible stops help keep the experience intimate and relaxed.

This tour suits those who want a quick, scenic escape from Zadar, enjoy snorkeling, and love the idea of floating around in crystal-clear waters. It’s especially appealing for travelers who appreciate good value and knowledgeable guides. Ready to see what makes this trip stand out? Let’s dive in.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Three scenic stops provide a variety of beautiful settings without long travel times between them.
• Snorkeling and swimming are included, giving you a chance to enjoy Croatia’s famously clear waters.
• Relaxation and comfort are prioritized with shade, sun areas, and cold drinks on board.
• The small group size and experienced local skipper help create an intimate, friendly vibe.
• Affordable price offers excellent value for a half-day boat trip in the Zadar area.
• The tour’s focus on quiet bays means fewer crowds and more peace during your stops.

An Honest Look at the Experience

This speedboat tour is designed for those who want to enjoy Zadar’s nearby islands and bays without dedicating an entire day. The entire experience lasts around four hours, which is perfect if you’re limited on time but still crave some sea and sun. From start to finish, it’s meant to be a light, enjoyable adventure, not a hectic sightseeing marathon.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The trip begins at Obala kneza Branimira, a small gathering spot near a gas station. Once everyone is on board, the skipper fires up the boat, and you’re off on a quick 10-minute ride to your first stop, the Blue Bay Otri. Here, you get around 45 minutes to take a dip, snorkel, or simply relax in a quiet bay. The waters are famously clear, inviting you to float around or explore beneath the surface.

A key highlight of these first stops is the sense of tranquility. Reviews frequently mention how peaceful it is to swim away from the crowds, with one traveler noting they enjoyed “amazing views and atmosphere” at the Blue Lagoon. The inclusion of snorkeling gear ensures you can see some of the underwater life, which many found quite rewarding.

After this, the boat returns briefly to Ugljan, a charming island with a small fishing village called Kali. Here, you have about 80 minutes to stretch your legs, explore, or grab a bite at a recommended local restaurant, Srdela Snack. The focus on local seafood and affordable prices makes this a worthwhile stop for those interested in Croatian cuisine. Several reviews mention the good food and friendly atmosphere, making it a lovely break from the boat.

The last stop takes you to Otok Galevac, a tiny island where you can snorkel, swim, or hop ashore to see the island’s monastery and enjoy the serene pine shade. The time here is around 45 minutes, and many describe it as a “fairy-tale” setting.

Throughout the trip, the skipper is praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. Multiple reviews highlight how he ensures everyone is comfortable, offers local tips, and keeps the atmosphere light and fun. One traveler mentioned, “Ivan made sure we had a great time,” which sums up the generally positive vibe.

The Good Stuff: What Travelers Love

• Stunning Hidden Bays: The stops are carefully chosen to avoid crowded tourist spots. Many reviews rave about “beautiful places” and “amazing views,” confirming the scenes are truly special.
• Snorkeling and Swimming: The inclusion of masks, snorkels, and life vests makes it easy for anyone to join in, regardless of experience. The water clarity is often praised, and reviewers love the chance to hop into the sea multiple times.
• Guides and Atmosphere: The guides are described as knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly, making the whole experience feel personal and safe.
• Value for Money: At just $27 per person, this tour is considered a very good deal for the quality of stops and the overall experience. Many reviewers feel it’s money well spent, especially with drinks and snorkeling gear included.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Not-So-Great Stuff: What to Consider

• Limited Meals: The tour mainly offers water and iced tea, with the option to buy food ashore. If you’re hungry or craving a substantial meal, plan to eat before or after.
• Short Duration: While perfect for a quick escape, if you’re after a full-day adventure, this may feel a bit brief.
• Crowd Timing: Although the bays tend to be quieter, they’re still popular stops, so it’s best to arrive early and be prepared for some other boats and travelers.
• Accessibility: Due to the nature of the boat and stops, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, those with low fitness, babies under 1, or the elderly over 95.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Obala kneza Branimira

Your journey begins at a rather unassuming spot near a small gas station in Zadar. It’s easy to find, and the crew is ready to greet you with warm smiles. Arrive about 15 minutes early—traffic in Zadar can be unpredictable, and punctuality helps keep the day running smoothly.

First Stop: Blue Bay Otri

Just a 10-minute speedboat ride from the start, this bay is a highlight. Its calm waters, away from the crowds, are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers mention how the quiet atmosphere makes it feel like a secret paradise. You can also watch for dolphins—some travelers have spotted them during the trip, adding a magical touch.

Expect around 45 minutes here to swim, snorkel, or just relax floating on the water. The boat leaves with plenty of time for everyone to enjoy the scenery, and the drinks are a nice touch—ice-cold water and iced tea help beat the heat.

Second Stop: Kali and Srdela Snack

After returning briefly to Ugljan, your next stop is Kali, a charming fisherman’s village. Here, you’ll have about 80 minutes to explore, take photos, and enjoy some local culinary delights. The Srdela Snack restaurant is praised for their seafood, offering traditional Croatian dishes at reasonable prices. Several reviews stress how the food and atmosphere are a pleasant surprise after the boat ride.

This stop provides a good balance of sightseeing and food, and it’s relaxed enough to wander at your own pace. Many mention the scenic views on the way there, and the stop is often highlighted as a highlight for its authenticity and charm.

Final Stop: Otok Galevac

The last destination is Otok Galevac, a tiny island with a monastery and a small beach. You get around 45 minutes here, which is enough for a swim, some photos, or a quick walk around the island. Many find it to be a “fairy-tale” setting, with the pine trees and peaceful surroundings creating a tranquil retreat.

You can snorkel from the boat or walk ashore for a quiet moment under the shade. Some travelers mention visiting the monastery, which adds a bit of local history and charm.

Return Journey

After the final stop, the boat heads back to Zadar, arriving around 2 p.m. This gives you plenty of time to continue your day—whether that’s more sightseeing or relaxing elsewhere.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour is most suited for travelers who want a quick and visually stunning escape from Zadar. It’s ideal if you’re looking for light adventure combined with relaxation and don’t want to spend a full day on the water. Snorkelers and swimmers will especially appreciate the included gear and clear waters.

It’s also a good pick if you prefer a small-group, personable experience over large tour boats. The price makes it accessible, and the stops are carefully chosen to avoid major crowds, giving you a sense of discovery and peace.

Travelers who enjoy local food, scenic views, and aquatic activities will find this trip hits many of their checkboxes. If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized tour that balances fun, scenery, and comfort, this is a solid choice.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed for kids, children who enjoy swimming and snorkeling will likely have a good time. The tour isn’t recommended for babies under 1 year or individuals with low fitness levels, so consider the age and comfort of your children.

Are meals included?
No, food isn’t included in the package, but you can buy meals and drinks at the stop in Kali. The boat provides water and iced tea, making it easy to stay refreshed.

How long are the stops?
Each stop varies from about 45 to 80 minutes, giving you enough time to swim, explore, and take photos without feeling rushed.

What do I need to bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, flip-flops, and cash for optional shopping or meals ashore.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s suitable for most able-bodied travelers who enjoy water activities. It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or very young children.

How much does it cost?
At $27 per person, the experience offers good value, especially considering the included snorkeling gear, drinks, and the small-group atmosphere.

Are there any hidden costs?
There’s a €10 (about $10) dock fee payable on the boat. Food, drinks ashore, and towels are not included.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online with the option to pay later, providing flexibility to adjust your plans if needed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and fun half-day on the water around Zadar, this tour from Niko Excursion ticks many boxes. It offers a good balance of beautiful scenery, light activity, and comfort, all at a reasonable price. The stops are thoughtfully selected to maximize tranquility and beauty, and the crew is praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach.

While it isn’t a full-day adventure or an all-inclusive experience, it’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Croatia’s stunning coastlines without overcommitting. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or a small group, this trip provides a memorable and refreshing way to see the islands and bays.

Just remember to bring your essentials, arrive on time, and go with a relaxed attitude—you’re in for some truly lovely moments. It’s a straightforward, well-reviewed choice for anyone looking to add a splash of sea and sun to their Zadar trip.

Enjoy your trip!

You can check availability for your dates here: