Zadar: 4-Hour Cruise to Ugljan, Kukljica & Oljak with swim

Exploring Croatia’s Islands in Just 4 Hours: A Practical Review of the Zadar Speedboat Tour

If you’re after a quick but memorable taste of Croatia’s island life, this 4-hour cruise from Zadar offers a surprisingly rich experience. While it’s a short trip, it packs in scenic cruising, a handful of charming stops, and plenty of opportunities to cool off in crystal-clear waters. That said, it’s not designed for those looking for a full-day adventure or a deep dive into each island’s history — it’s more about experiencing a slice of the archipelago’s beauty.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are its intimate small-group setting and the chance to swim in secluded spots like Kostanj Cove. These elements make it feel personal and relaxed, perfect for travelers who want to dodge the crowds and enjoy Croatia’s natural scenery without a huge time commitment. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the itinerary is quite packed, which means you might not get much time on each stop — so if you’re craving detailed explorations or longer beach days, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy cruise-style experiences with a focus on enjoying beautiful waters and scenic views, rather than heaps of sightseeing at each location. It’s especially good for those short on time but still eager to see a few highlights of the Zadar archipelago. If you’re traveling with family or a group that appreciates a relaxed pace and swimming opportunities, this can work well, though non-swimmers should consider their comfort level.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: Perfect for a quick glimpse of Croatia’s islands.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, making it more personal.
• Flexible stops: Includes swimming, photo stops, and exploration.
• Varied locations: From charming villages to pristine bays.
• Travel light: Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and camera.
• Not for non-swimmers: The tour involves swimming and snorkeling, so it’s best suited for confident swimmers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This speedboat tour kicks off from Zadar at a meeting point marked clearly with a “Lantana” logo, making it straightforward to find. The boat itself is quick, and the entire trip lasts about four hours — a great option if you’re short on time but still want a taste of the Dalmatian islands.

The itinerary starts with a 10-minute ride to Preko on Ugljan Island. We loved the way this village immediately set a peaceful tone — think stone houses, narrow streets, and a laid-back waterfront. Many reviews highlight the charm of Preko, with one traveler mentioning, “It feels like stepping back into a simpler, slower-paced world.” Here, you get about an hour to walk around, snap photos, or grab a quick coffee before moving on.

Next, the boat makes another 10-minute speedboat trip to a hidden gem — a secluded cove perfect for swimming and snorkeling. This part of the tour is often praised for its serenity and untouched beauty. The water is said to be incredibly clear, with some reviews describing “turquoise waters far from the crowds,” which is exactly what many travelers seek in a coastal escape. If you’re looking for a chance to float in nature’s pool, this is the spot.

From there, it’s a brief 10-minute cruise to Kukljica, a traditional fishing village that offers a different vibe. You’ll have about an hour here, giving you time to explore the charming lanes, enjoy some local snacks, or just soak in the warm, welcoming atmosphere. Several reviewers mention how Kukljica’s waterfront feels authentic, away from tourist traps.

The final stop is Oljak, Croatia’s smallest inhabited island. This part is particularly cherished for its intimate, natural beauty. The guide will point out the island’s pristine bay where you can swim again, with plenty of time for snorkeling if you’re into marine life. Many travelers comment on how Oljak’s unspoiled waters give a real sense of untouched paradise — a perfect last stop before heading back to Zadar.

The return journey is another 10-minute speedboat ride, and overall, the trip wraps up in about four hours — making it manageable for most travelers, even those with tight schedules.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The stunning views are a common theme in reviews. The combination of boat cruising, the color of the water, and the peaceful island villages creates a consistently beautiful backdrop. Many travelers mention feeling lucky to witness such unspoiled landscapes, and the short stops allow for great photo opportunities, especially during the quiet mornings or late afternoons when the light is softer.

The small group size really enhances the experience — it feels more relaxed, less rushed, and allows for better interaction with the guide. Speaking of guides, they are multilingual, offering insights in English, Bosnian, German, French, and Croatian, which adds to the personalized feel.

However, some reviewers note that the itinerary moves quickly — not much time on each island. If you’re hoping for a leisurely exploration or longer beach lounging, this might not be the best fit. Also, because swimming is part of the experience, non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness should think carefully before booking.

The value for the price is generally regarded as good, especially considering the small-group format, the boat ride, and the swimming opportunities. It’s a way to enjoy Croatia’s coastal beauty without the expense or effort of a full-day tour.

Practical Details

• The tour is run by Lantana obrt za turizam.
• You’ll meet at coordinates 44.1114349, 15.2279682, where the guide will wait with a branded board.
• The trip includes multiple short boat rides, each about 10 minutes, making the journey comfortable and quick.
• You’ll spend about 1 hour in Preko and Kukljica, and roughly 30-40 minutes at each swimming stop.
• The total duration is about four hours, which is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day.
• Group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• The tour offers flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later.

What to Bring:

• Swimsuit and towel for swimming stops
• Sunscreen to protect against the Croatian sun
• Camera for capturing stunning views

More Great Tours Nearby

Not Allowed:

• Bikes and baby carriages are not permitted, probably due to boat space constraints.

Suitability:

• The tour is not recommended for non-swimmers or those particularly sensitive to seasickness, given the boat travel and swimming activities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This short, scenic island-hopping trip is ideal for travelers who love beautiful coastal scenery and want a quick, relaxing escape without committing a full day. It’s perfect if you’re staying a short time in Zadar but still want a memorable experience on the water. Those traveling with friends or a small family group will especially appreciate the intimate setting, though families with confident swimmers should find it suitable too.

If you’re after a relaxing, photo-worthy cruise with some swimming and exploring, this could be just right. But if you’re craving detailed island tours or long beach days, you might consider a longer or more in-depth option.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with swimming and boat rides. Non-swimmers might find it less enjoyable, and children need to be able to handle a short boat journey and swimming stops.

How long are the stops at each island?
You’ll have approximately 1 hour in Preko and Kukljica, and about 30 to 40 minutes at each swimming spot, which keeps the pace lively but not rushed.

Are meals included?
The description doesn’t mention any food or drinks being provided, so it’s wise to bring water, snacks, or plan to purchase something at the stops.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Bosnian, German, French, and Croatian, making the experience accessible for various travelers.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group setting and communal boat ride make it easy to meet fellow travelers and share the experience.

How much does it cost?
While the exact price isn’t provided here, the value is generally good given the included stops, swimming, and personal guide. It’s worth comparing to other tours for the specific highlights you want.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and camera are recommended. No bikes or baby carriages allowed due to boat space.

Is there any downtime or free time apart from the stops?
Most of the trip is structured around the stops, with brief transit times in between. The short duration means the trip is all about the stops and enjoying the scenery.

To sum it up, this 4-hour cruise from Zadar offers a balanced mix of scenic boat rides, authentic island villages, and opportunities to swim in beautiful waters. It’s an efficient way to enjoy the Dalmatian coast for travelers with limited time or those who want a relaxed and intimate experience. With breathtaking views, small-group intimacy, and the chance to get in the water at secluded spots, it’s well-suited for anyone looking to add a splash of adventure to their Croatian trip. Just remember, the quick pace means it’s more about a snapshot of island life than a deep exploration — perfect if you’re after a taste rather than a feast.

You can check availability for your dates here: