Half-Day Cruise of Oljak and Preko

Exploring the Half-Day Cruise of Oljak and Preko: A Friendly Review

If you’re looking to spend a relaxing afternoon exploring some of Croatia’s tranquil coastlines and islands, this half-day cruise to Osljak and Preko might just be worth considering. We’ve come across plenty of reviews praising its small-group vibe, beautiful scenery, and the laid-back atmosphere it creates. Even if you’re not the type to cruise every day, this experience offers a chance to unwind, snorkel, and soak up some local charm without breaking the bank.

Two things that stand out about this tour are the small group size—limiting to just seven travelers—and the inclusive drinks and snorkeling gear, which really enhance the relaxed, carefree vibe. On the flip side, it’s a half-day, so if you’re craving a full-blown adventure, this might feel a little short. Still, for those seeking a low-key, intimate trip with plenty of beautiful views, this cruise checks many boxes.

It’s probably best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle sightseeing, swimming, and friendly guides. If you prefer your tours to be more active or packed with multiple stops, this might feel a touch limited. But for anyone wanting a taste of Croatia’s coastline with relaxed pacing, this cruise offers a lot of value.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group size of up to seven travelers offers personalized attention.
• All-Inclusive Drinks & Gear: Snorkeling equipment plus drinks like beer, soda, and local liquors included.
• Beautiful Stops: Visits to a secluded beach on Osljak and a charming Croatian village, Preko.
• Relaxed Pacing: About 20 minutes at each stop, allowing plenty of time for swimming and sightseeing.
• Informative Guides: Friendly and knowledgeable skippers who share insights about Croatia and the sea.
• Affordable Price: At around $42, this trip offers good value for a half-day excursion with all amenities included.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Starting Point in Zadar

Your adventure begins at a well-known spot in Zadar, Obala kneza Branimira. From here, you’ll cast off past the famous Sea Organ—a highlight in itself—and head towards Osljak. The boat isn’t large, but it’s comfortable, making the 4-hour trip manageable and laid-back.

Stop 1: Osljak Island

The first stop on this cruise is Osljak, a small island with a reputation for its secluded beach and stunning views. The tour allocates about 30 minutes here, giving you sufficient time to explore the island’s quiet corners and take in the scenery.

We love the way this stop offers privacy and a chance to enjoy the crystal-clear waters away from crowds. The reviews confirm that many travelers appreciate the freedom to snorkel and swim, thanks to the provided gear, while the guide shares interesting tidbits about the local environment and sea life.

One reviewer mentions, “the skipper was nice and very informative about Croatia/sea animals and the islands,” which hints at the kind of relaxed, friendly vibe you’ll find onboard. The free access to snorkeling gear means you can see the underwater world without worrying about renting equipment or extra costs.

Stop 2: Preko Village

The second stop is the picturesque village of Preko, a quaint Croatian town with beautiful views and local charm. You’ll get about 20 minutes here, enough to stretch your legs, take photos, or just enjoy the scenery. It’s a perfect little peek into local life, and many reviews highlight how much they appreciated the chance to explore a real Croatian village away from tourist crowds.

The Overall Experience

Throughout the trip, the small group size really shines. With just a handful of travelers, everyone feels more engaged, and guides like Luca or Dubravko can answer questions and share insights more personally, making the experience feel warm and genuine.

The drinks onboard are a big hit. Guests mention the availability of alcoholic drinks, soda, water, and local liquors—ideal for toasting the afternoon or just relaxing as you cruise along the coast. The reviews frequently note the informative guides, who are friendly, attentive, and eager to share their knowledge.

The Snorkeling and Swimming

The crystal clear waters are a highlight, providing excellent opportunities to snorkel and explore marine life. Guests rave about the calm, sheltered swim spots, perfect for relaxing without worry. The review from a guest who said, “we saw amazing marine life while snorkeling,” captures this well.

If you’re someone who loves to swim or snorkel in new locations, you’ll probably find this part of the trip a major highlight. The equipment is provided, so all you need is your swimsuit and a bit of curiosity.

Additional Perks and Considerations

The cost of $41.96 per person is quite reasonable. When you consider that drinks are included, plus snorkeling gear, it’s a good deal for a half-day outing. The government fee of 10 euros per person is an extra you’ll need to budget for, but it’s typical for many such excursions.

One potential downside is that this tour does not include lunch, so if you’re hungry afterward, you might want to plan for a meal in Zadar before or after. Also, since it’s a half-day, it’s not designed for those looking for a full-day adventure or multiple island hopping stops.

Weather and Flexibility

The experience is weather-dependent. If bad weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, which is reassuring. You should also be aware that cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so it’s best to confirm your plans well in advance.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and a laid-back pace. If you enjoy snorkeling, scenic views, and friendly guides, it’s a great pick. It’s also perfect for those who want to maximize their time exploring multiple spots in a half-day without feeling rushed.

While families with older children or teenagers should find it suitable, it might not be best for very young children due to the boat’s size and the nature of the stops. It’s more suited for travelers who enjoy gentle exploration, stunning coastlines, and casual fun.

Final Thoughts

This half-day cruise of Osljak and Preko offers a lovely, straightforward way to experience Croatia’s coastal beauty. The small group size makes it personal, and the overall vibe is relaxed and friendly. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and drinks adds to the sense of ease, letting you focus on enjoying the scenery and underwater world.

The stops at Osljak’s secluded beach and the charming Preko village give you a taste of local tranquility, perfect for unwinding or taking memorable photos. Guides like Luca and Dubravko are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the trip feel more personalized and engaging.

If you’re after a cost-effective, intimate experience with plenty of opportunities to swim and take in beautiful views, this cruise might be just what you need. It’s not a high-energy, all-day affair, but for those seeking a relaxed, friendly outing on the Croatian coast, it delivers well.

FAQ

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included in the tour, so you can easily explore underwater without extra cost.

Are drinks included?
Absolutely. The tour offers alcoholic drinks, soda, bottled water, and local liquors, making for a very relaxed experience.

How long is each stop?
You’ll spend around 20 minutes at each main stop—Osljak and Preko—giving enough time to swim, explore, or take photos.

What is the price for?
The $41.96 fee covers the boat ride, snorkeling gear, drinks, and the guided experience. Plus, there’s a small government fee of €10 per person to be paid additionally.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but very young children may need additional supervision, given the boat size and nature of stops.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Obala kneza Branimira 18 in Zadar and returns there at the end of the trip.

How many people are on each boat?
This experience is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, making it very intimate.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

This cruise strikes a great balance between comfort, intimacy, and value. If you’re after a friendly, scenic escape that lets you snorkel in calm waters and explore small Croatian villages, it’s definitely worth considering.