3 Island Tour Swim and Snorkel with Drinks on Traditional Boat

If you’re planning a trip to Zadar and looking to enjoy a laid-back, scenic escape, this 3 Island Tour is a pretty appealing choice. While I haven’t personally hopped on this boat myself, I’ve gathered enough info from travelers and reviews to give you a detailed picture of what you can expect. It’s a classic way to combine some lovely island time with swimming and snorkeling, all aboard a traditional Dalmatian vessel.

What really stands out about this tour is how authentic and relaxed it feels — not just another crowded boat ride, but a chance to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and experience a slice of local life. Two things I love about this experience? First, the beautiful stops at three different islands, offering plenty of opportunities for swimming, exploring, and unwinding. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the inclusion of local wine and bottled water make it feel both fun and comfortable.

A point to consider: the boat doesn’t have a toilet onboard—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to that or on a tight schedule. Also, the overall cost doesn’t include docking fees, which are paid separately, so budget a little extra for that. This trip seems best suited for those wanting a low-key, scenic day out with easygoing vibes, especially if you love snorkeling, swimming, and a taste of island life.

Key Points

• Authentic experience aboard a traditional Dalmatian boat with a relaxed pace.
• Multiple stops on three islands, each offering unique spots for swimming and exploring.
• Inclusion of local wine and bottled water adds a nice touch of hospitality.
• Limited amenities onboard, notably no toilet, which might be a minor inconvenience.
• Price is affordable at around $24 per person, but extra docking fees apply.
• Good reviews for crew and scenery, making it a popular choice for those wanting a genuine island-hopping experience.

What the Tour Offers: An In-Depth Look

This 4-hour adventure is designed to give you a taste of Dalmatian island life without feeling rushed. It departs from Zadar’s Sea Adventures, and the friendly crew encourages punctuality — arriving 10-15 minutes early is recommended to ensure smooth sailing.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Visit and Why It Matters

Starting Point at Zadar Sea Adventures — the departure is straightforward, right in the heart of Zadar. The boat itself is described as spacious, which means you won’t feel cramped even in busy periods or if you’re someone who values a bit of personal space.

First Stop: Oljak — the smallest inhabited island in Croatia, Oljak is a real highlight for those seeking peace. The reviews praise the hidden coves and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming away from tourist crowds. As one traveler mentioned, it’s “a tranquil Adriatic gem,” where you can enjoy quiet moments, take photos, or just relax floating in the water. The one-hour stay is enough to dip into the calm waters and explore.

Second Stop: Ugljan Island — here, you’ll find a peaceful bay ideal for snorkeling or sunbathing. The calmness of the waters makes it perfect for underwater exploration or simply relaxing on deck with a drink in hand. The reviews mention how this stop “stole hearts,” and it’s easy to see why—beautiful water, scenic views, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Third Stop: Preko — the final island stop is flexible, depending on weather and group preferences. Either explore a charming fishing village or relax at a secluded bay. This flexibility is nice because it caters to the group’s mood and conditions at the time. Travelers have enjoyed this stop for its authentic vibe, with one reviewer describing it as “a good mix of swimming and strolling around a quaint village.”

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour comes with snorkeling gear, a friendly skipper/tour guide, plus unlimited bottled water and local wine. The drinks are a real perk, especially after a swim or during relaxing moments on deck. The crew’s hospitality is frequently praised — one review even mentions “great hospitality” and “a relaxed guy who knows what he’s doing.”

However, be aware that docking fees are extra — they’re paid before boarding and typically cost around 10 euros for those 12 and older. Also, there’s no onboard toilet, which could be a minor inconvenience, especially on a longer day or for travelers with specific needs.

The Experience and Atmosphere

From reviews, it’s clear this tour is highly valued for its friendly skipper, who is described as knowledgeable, attentive, and relaxed. One traveler noted, “He answered questions and shared tips,” which adds a layer of authenticity and insider knowledge.

The boat itself provides ample space, allowing travelers to spread out, sunbathe, or chat comfortably. With a maximum of 14 passengers, it’s small enough to feel intimate but not crowded. The music, the scenic stops, and the casual vibe make it a perfect outing for those wanting a low-pressure, scenic day.

Many reviews mention the beautiful scenery and highlight how the stops feel “off the beaten path,” away from crowds. The inclusion of local wine elevates the experience, making it feel special without breaking the bank.

The Value for Money

At roughly $24 per person, this tour is quite affordable for a full afternoon of island hopping, swimming, snorkeling, and drinking wine. The reviews frequently mention it as ‘good value’ — especially considering the personalized attention, scenic stops, and inclusion of drinks. The extra docking fees add a small cost, but overall, it delivers a relaxed, scenic, and enjoyable experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, authentic Croatian island experience. It’s perfect if you love swimming and snorkeling, want a friendly guide, and don’t mind a casual boat with limited amenities.

It’s also great for those who appreciate good value, as you get several scenic stops, drinks, and a friendly crew for a reasonable price. If you’re traveling with kids, the calm waters and slow pace could work well, but note there’s no onboard toilet — so plan accordingly.

This isn’t a high-adrenaline adventure — it’s more about scenic peace, gentle exploration, and enjoying local hospitality in a beautiful setting. If that sounds right up your alley, you’ll likely love it.

FAQs About the 3 Island Tour

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the calm waters and relaxed pace make it suitable for families, especially those with children comfortable around water. Just remember there’s no onboard toilet, which might be a consideration for longer days or very young kids.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes unlimited bottled water and local wine, making it easy to stay refreshed and add a celebratory touch to your day.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment (mask and snorkel) is provided, so you can just relax and enjoy your time in the water.

What about the docking fees?
Docking fees are not included in the price and are paid separately before boarding, typically around 10 euros for those 12 and older.

Is there a bathroom on the boat?
No, the boat does not have a toilet, so plan accordingly if you might need one during the trip.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re after a genuine, relaxed island-hopping experience in Croatia, this 3 Island Tour offers a lot for a fair price. The combination of scenic stops, friendly crew, and inclusive drinks creates a welcoming atmosphere that captures the laid-back Dalmatian spirit. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up scenic views without a rush.

While the absence of a toilet might be a small inconvenience, the overall experience seems to deliver excellent value, with many travelers praising the crew and the beautiful locations. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to see some of Croatia’s most charming islands, making it a solid choice for those wanting to add a relaxing day at sea to their Croatian itinerary.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, this trip is a gentle, scenic escape — perfect for unwinding and soaking in the natural beauty of the Adriatic.