Zadar: Island-Hopping Blue Lagoon Boat Tour with Drink

If you’re pondering a trip to Zadar and considering a boat tour that mixes scenery, swimming, and a bit of local flavor, this Island-Hopping Blue Lagoon Boat Tour might catch your eye. It promises a relaxing half-day escape to explore two islands, with opportunities to snorkel, enjoy drinks, and soak in beautiful views. We’ve gone through the details—and the reviews—to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your travel plans.

What we really like about this tour is how informative and friendly the guides seem to be, making the experience feel personal and genuine. Plus, the stops around the islands offer stunning glimpses of Croatia’s quieter, less touristy side. That said, it’s not a huge tour—so if you’re after a full-day adventure or intense party vibe, it might not be your best bet. This tour feels best suited for travelers looking to relax, explore at a gentle pace, and enjoy some quality time on the water.

One thing to keep in mind is the docking fee of 10 euros, payable upon arrival, which might seem a bit extra but is fairly common in boat trips that stop at multiple islands. Also, the boat is described as small, which contributes to a cozy atmosphere but can be a downside if you prefer more space to move around. Overall, if you want a well-organized, friendly boat trip with scenic stops and good value, this experience could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Relaxed pace and friendly guides make for a comfortable experience
• Beautiful snorkeling spots and clear waters highlight Croatia’s coastline
• Two islands provide a mix of quiet exploration and scenic walks
• Drinks and refreshments included, adding to the laid-back vibe
• Short duration suits those with tight schedules or seeking a half-day activity
• Good reviews and high ratings suggest consistent quality

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Zadar Island-Hopping Tour

Setting the Scene: What Is This Tour All About?

This 4-hour boat tour is designed as a gentle escape from the busy city of Zadar. It’s perfect if you’re craving some time on the water, away from crowds, with plenty of chances to snorkel, relax, and take in the scenery. The experience is led by a local skipper, which means you’ll get some local insights and a warm, friendly vibe—something many reviews highlight as a real plus.

Starting point is conveniently behind the restaurant Fosa Zadar, with a brief 25-minute boat ride taking you from the city to the islands. The tour is structured into three main stops: Osljak, Preko, and a final relaxing activity back in Zadar, with stops for sightseeing, swimming, and dining.

The Journey Begins: From Zadar to Osljak

Your trip kicks off with a calm cruise along the coast, giving you a scenic preview of Zadar’s shoreline. The first stop is Osljak Island, known for being the smallest inhabited island in Croatia and steeped in history. You’ll have about 45 minutes on foot to explore, soak in the atmosphere, or snap some pictures.

A key point here is the quietness—this island is a perfect place to escape the city buzz. Several reviews mention how much they enjoyed the tranquility and the chance to see local life. One reviewer notes, “Osljak is intriguing because of its history,” which adds a layer of interest beyond just a swimming spot.

The Highlight: Snorkeling and Exploring Preko

Next, the boat moves to Preko, a charming village where you’ll have around two hours. This is your chance to walk around, have a coffee or lunch overlooking the sea, or simply relax on the small sandy beach. Snorkeling gear is provided, and many travelers mention how clear and inviting the waters are—perfect for cooling off and spotting marine life.

A review fondly recalls, “Snorkeling in the clear waters of Blue Bay was an absolute joy,” highlighting how accessible and enjoyable the underwater experience is. The stops here are flexible—some prefer to lounge on the beach while others take a stroll into the village, exploring local shops and cafes.

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The Return Leg: Scenic Views and Final Relaxation

After your island visits, the tour slowly heads back to Zadar. During this period, you get a second chance to enjoy the scenic coast, often with some music or simply soaking in the last views. Many reviews mention how the guides keep the atmosphere light and friendly, often sharing fun stories or recommendations.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Snorkeling equipment and life jackets are available onboard, always disinfected and ready to go. The tour includes a drink service, with alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, making it easy to sip and relax as you cruise between stops. It’s worth noting that there’s a docking fee of 10 euros payable upon arrival—so factor that into your budget.

The tour offers morning or afternoon departures, catering to different schedules. It’s designed to be flexible, and reviews suggest that the guides are attentive and knowledgeable, often going beyond just pointing out sights to sharing stories and local tips.

The Experience from the Traveler’s Perspective

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides, mentioning names like Gogo, Luka, or Mimi—highlighting their professionalism, warmth, and local insights. Many note that the guides made the experience memorable, joking, sharing stories, and ensuring everyone felt comfortable.

The boat itself is small but cozy, which many find intimate and perfect for relaxing. Some mention that the start can be a little hectic if people arrive late, but once underway, everything tends to run smoothly.

Snorkeling and Swimming: Worth the Effort?

Absolutely. Multiple travelers emphasize how much they enjoyed snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. It’s suitable for all ages, and the marine life seems lively enough to keep both kids and adults entertained.

Food and Drinks: Light Refreshments and Good Vibes

The included drinks are well-received, with reviews mentioning free wine and a variety of beverages. Some have said it feels like a private tour thanks to the attentive service from the guides. It’s a relaxed, social element that adds value without necessarily increasing the price.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a laid-back experience, love snorkeling, or just want a scenic half-day trip, this tour is a good pick. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling with family or friends, as the stops are flexible, and the pace is gentle. However, if you prefer a longer, more adventurous day or more active pursuits, you might find this a bit too relaxed.

Summing It Up

This Island-Hopping Blue Lagoon Boat Tour offers a friendly, well-organized way to explore Zadar’s nearby islands without overpacking your day. The scenic stops, snorkeling opportunities, and the chance to enjoy Croatian hospitality onboard make it a solid choice for those seeking a peaceful break on the water. The consistently high reviews and the warmth in the guides’ approach make it stand out as a trustworthy and enjoyable experience.

While the boat’s size and the extra docking fee are worth noting, they don’t detract significantly from what’s a genuinely pleasant outing. It’s best suited for travelers wanting gentle exploration, scenic views, and some fun in the sun—perfect for relaxed days with friends or family.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Many reviews mention families enjoying the trip, especially with snorkeling gear and calm waters, but it’s best suited for children who can handle boat trips and swimming. Always check with the tour provider if you’re unsure.

How long are the stops at each island? Osljak is about 45 minutes, and Preko is around 2 hours, giving enough time to explore, relax, or have a meal.

Are drinks included in the tour? Yes, the tour provides refreshments onboard, including alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks, with some reviews mentioning free wine.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear and life jackets are always on board, disinfected and ready to use.

What’s the cost and what does it include? The price covers the boat trip, stops, snorkeling gear, drinks, and the guide’s local insights. There’s a 10 euro docking fee payable upon arrival.

How punctual are the departures? The meeting point is behind restaurant Fosa Zadar—arrive 10 minutes early. Max waiting time is 5 minutes.

Can I cancel my booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible should your plans change.

To sum it up, this boat tour strikes a nice balance between scenic relaxation, local charm, and friendly guides. It’s ideal if you want a hassle-free, enjoyable half-day out on the water, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and unwind. Perfect for travelers who value comfort, authentic local experience, and good value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here: