Zadar 2 Islands Hopping and Snorkeling during half day boat tour

If you’re visiting Zadar and looking for a quick yet immersive escape to the surrounding islands, the Zadar 2 Islands Hopping and Snorkeling Tour might just be what you need. This half-day adventure offers a relaxed way to see some of Croatia’s stunning coastline without committing to a full-day trip. While it’s not perfect for everyone, it’s definitely a solid choice for those wanting a taste of the sea, especially with family or friends.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the flexible schedule means you can choose morning or afternoon departures, fitting into your plans easily. Second, the local skipper provides a genuine touch — sharing insights and making the trip feel personalized rather than rigid. On the flip side, the tour’s short duration means you won’t have time for extensive exploration, and it’s quite a small group—up to 10 travelers—so it’s intimate but might not satisfy those craving a longer, more in-depth experience.

This tour seems best suited for travelers seeking a light, scenic outing rather than a full-blown expedition. If you’re after a quick getaway, want to snorkel in calm waters, or enjoy socializing in a cozy group, this could be a good fit. But if you’re craving a more comprehensive or active adventure, you might want to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Flexible scheduling allows choosing between morning or afternoon departures
• Friendly local skipper adds a personal touch and local insights
• Great value: around $35 for four hours, including snorkeling gear
• Suitable for families, friends, and couples in a small, intimate group
• Stops at two scenic locations with ample time for swimming and exploring
• No food included, so plan accordingly

An Honest Look at the Experience

This tour is straightforward but offers enough charm to keep it memorable. For just over $35 per person, it delivers a quick dose of island scenery and underwater fun without any fuss. We liked the informal vibe—the skipper isn’t just a driver but a guide who seems genuinely interested in making sure everyone has a good time. The boat, described as perfectly safe, is suitable for families with children, which is a nice plus if you’re traveling with kids or elderly relatives.

The itinerary is simple: start at Zadar’s meeting point, head out to two islands of the Zadar Archipelago, spend around 1.5 hours on each stop, and enjoy snorkeling and swimming. The main highlight? Preko, which has a sandy beach, a handful of cozy cafes, and a relaxed vibe perfect for unwinding. The stop here lets you swim, explore, or just lounge on the beach while your skipper waits nearby, ready to take you to the next spot.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Preko feels like a quiet little haven, offering around an hour and a half for swimming, relaxing, or exploring. It’s not a large island, but it’s enough to give you a sense of local life away from tourist crowds. The water here is calm, making snorkeling enjoyable—and the tour provides masks for free, so you can explore underwater worlds and spot fish, rocks, and maybe even some sea urchins.

The snorkeling equipment is available throughout the trip, which is handy since some tours charge extra for gear. Having it included makes the whole experience more relaxed—you don’t have to worry about lugging your own or paying more on the spot. Just tell the skipper if you want to use it, and they’re happy to help.

Group Size and Atmosphere

This is a small-group tour, capped at about 10 travelers, which means more personal attention and a friendly atmosphere. Reviewers frequently mention the relaxed, welcoming nature of the crew—“the skipper was very relaxed and friendly,” says one guest. That informal vibe makes it easy to chat, ask questions, or just sit back and enjoy the scenery.

However, the limited group size also means that if you’re traveling in a larger party or look for a more structured or guided experience, this might not meet all your expectations. It’s more about the casual, social experience of being on the water.

The Value of the Tour

At roughly $35.80 per person, the tour offers a decent bargain for what you get. It’s not a full-day expedition, but for a half-day trip, it includes snorkeling gear, a scenic boat ride, and stops at two islands. You’re paying mainly for the experience of being on the water and enjoying the views, rather than extensive sightseeing.

That said, keep in mind that lunch or food isn’t included, so if you’re hungry, bring snacks or plan to eat at the islands or back in Zadar afterward. Some reviews mention bringing snacks onboard, which is a good idea to extend your enjoyment.

What Past Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the friendly guides and beautiful scenery. One guest said, “Great trip. I enjoyed it very much,” and appreciated the amazing islands and the friendly skipper. Others note that the relaxed pace and informal atmosphere made for a pleasant day on the sea.

A few reviews mention cancellations, which can be frustrating especially if you’ve planned around the trip. Be sure to confirm your booking and stay aware of the weather, as the tour is weather-dependent.

The Tour in Practice

When you arrive at the meeting point, the process is straightforward. The mobile ticket system makes it easy to check in, and all you need to do is show up prepared for a few hours on the water. The boat is described as safe and suitable for families, which is reassuring if you’re traveling with children.

The timing is flexible, with the tour doing its best to accommodate your preferred departure. You’ll get around 4 hours in total, including travel time and stops, so it’s a short but sweet escape from the city. Plus, the small group size fosters a friendly, relaxed environment—many reviews comment on how enjoyable it was to meet other travelers and chat with the skipper.

Highlights from Reviews

• “The islands were amazing and the whole experience was worth it,” says Magdalena_B, emphasizing how the trip met her expectations.
• Steve_P mentions bringing snacks onboard, highlighting the casual, “chill” vibe of the trip.
• Jacek found the trip “fun-filled,” meeting “wonderful company,” and appreciated the professional crew.

Downsides and Considerations

While most reviews are positive, some travelers experienced cancellations just hours before the trip, which can be disappointing if you’ve made plans around it. The tour relies heavily on good weather, so it’s worth checking the forecast and having flexible plans.

Another point is the short duration—if you’re wanting more time on each island or more snorkeling, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the second stop’s beach was described as not ideal for easy access or getting into the water, which could affect those with mobility issues or children.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for those seeking a relaxed, scenic outing. If you enjoy spending time on boats, snorkeling in calm waters, and exploring small islands without a packed schedule, you’ll likely enjoy it. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with family or friends and prefer a more laid-back atmosphere.

If you’re looking for an adventure-packed or full-day experience, or want a guided tour with detailed historical commentary, this might not be the right fit. It’s more about the joy of being on the water, catching some sun, and discovering some local spots at a gentle pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 hours, including travel and stops at two islands.

Can I choose the departure time?
Yes, you can select either a morning or an afternoon departure, depending on your schedule.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, the tour provides snorkeling masks and equipment free of charge throughout the trip.

What should I bring?
Bring snacks or a light lunch, especially since food isn’t included. Also, pack sun protection, a towel, and maybe some waterproof camera gear.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the boat is described as suitable for families, and the relaxed pace makes it easy for kids to enjoy.

How many people will be on the boat?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, making it an intimate experience.

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

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This half-day island-hopping and snorkeling tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience some of Croatia’s scenic coastline. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, social outing without a heavy time commitment. The friendly guides, calm waters, and scenic stops make it a worthwhile addition to your Zadar itinerary, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.

While it’s not an all-encompassing adventure, it does a good job of balancing value and experience. Just keep in mind the weather dependency, and plan to bring some snacks to extend your time on the islands.

If you value relaxed, scenic days on the water and want a genuine local touch, this tour hits the spot. For those craving more in-depth exploration or a longer adventure, consider other options, but for most, this is a practical, charming way to enjoy the Zadar archipelago.