Zadar: Boat Tour to the Ugljan, Preko, and Oljak Islands

Thinking about a day out on the water in Croatia? This boat tour around the Zadar islands offers a relaxed way to see a few of the Dalmatian archipelago’s highlights without overpacking your day. It’s a fairly popular choice among travelers, thanks to its reasonable price and the chance to swim in some pretty crystal-clear waters.

What we particularly like about this tour is the combination of scenic island visits and active swimming stops — perfect if you’re into relaxing on beaches or exploring small towns. The friendly skipper and knowledgeable guide make the experience feel personal and engaging. And while it’s mostly focused on sightseeing and water activities, a possible downside is the limited time on each island, especially if you’re eager to explore every nook.

This tour suits travelers looking for an easy, affordable way to enjoy some of Croatia’s best island spots without fuss. It’s especially good for families, small groups, or anyone wanting a straightforward day on the sea with plenty of chances to swim and relax.

Key Points

• Affordable price point: You get a lot of value for only $35 per person.
• Flexible and family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, with helpful staff and accessible options.
• Multiple swim stops: Perfect for cooling off and enjoying the water at different spots.
• Rich island scenery: From traditional architecture to natural beauty.
• Includes essentials: Snorkeling masks, life vests, drinks, and a toilet onboard.
• Potential for limited time ashore: Each stop is brief, so it’s more about the experience than extensive exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Islands of Ugljan, Galevac, and Oljak

This boat trip offers a well-rounded experience of the Zadar archipelago, with stops at Ugljan, Galevac, and Oljak. Each island has its own charm, and the boat’s relaxed pace means you can soak in the scenery and enjoy water activities without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at Zadar Foa port, where you’ll meet your captain and hop aboard a cozy boat. The vessel is described as having plenty of space for both sunbathers and shade-seekers, making it easy to settle in and relax during the ride. Expect a friendly skipper who is happy to answer questions, which makes a difference if you want to learn about the islands’ history or get tips for your visit.

First Stop: OtriBay and Snorkeling Fun

The journey begins with a visit to OtriBay, a small bay characterized by rocky shores and pebble beaches. According to reviews, this spot is ideal for snorkeling, fishing, and swimming, thanks to its diverse marine life and sandy bottoms. It’s a peaceful spot to dip your toes in the water or have a quick swim. The rocky and pebble shoreline means you’ll want your water shoes or flip-flops handy.

Jaz Beach in Preko

Next, you’ll stop at Jaz Beach in Preko, known for its sandy shoreline and shaded trees. Here, visitors can enjoy lounging on the beach, with plenty of amenities like restaurants, sun loungers, umbrellas, and even a water slide for kids. It’s a very family-friendly spot, with enough facilities to keep everyone comfortable while soaking up the sun. Many reviews highlight this as a favorite for families or anyone wanting a laid-back beach experience.

Oljak Island: Small But Full of Charm

The smallest inhabited island, Oljak, is a highlight. It’s home to traditional Mediterranean architecture, including a 6th-century Church of St. Mary and a 16th-century windmill. Visitors often mention the peaceful vibe and the opportunity to walk around the village, take photos of the historic buildings, or just enjoy the natural scenery. Oljak is also a good spot for fishing, swimming, and diving — activities that appeal to those wanting a bit more adventure.

Galevac Island: Old Monastery and Scenic Views

Last but not least, Galevac (sometimes called Kolji), is just across from Preko. It’s noted mainly for the old church and monastery, which offer a glimpse into the local history and architecture. The island’s proximity to Preko means it’s very accessible for a quick visit. It’s a favorite with swimmers and sightseers alike, who appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

This is a half-day experience, generally lasting around 4 hours, including the stops. The actual time on each island isn’t extensive, but you’ll have enough time to swim, take photos, and explore a little. The tour includes snorkeling masks, life vests, and drinks (juice, water, beer), which make the water activities easy and comfortable.

The boat itself is described as small but pleasant, with space for lounging. This means you can choose between sunbathing at the front or staying in the shaded area at the back, depending on your preference. The crew is praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, especially in assisting children, people with mobility issues, or first-time snorkelers.

Water and Beach Tips

Since swimming is a key part of the trip, bringing a towel, sunscreen, hat, and your camera is essential. The tour doesn’t include food, so packing some snacks is a smart move, especially if you want to stay energized while exploring the islands.

The docking fee of 10 euros per person (children up to 10 years pay 5 euros) is payable cash on arrival, which is good to keep in mind. It’s a small extra cost for access to the stops, but worth considering when budgeting your day.

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The Experience of the Skipper and Other Travelers

Reviews consistently praise the skipper’s helpfulness and the overall friendly vibe of the trip. One traveler mentioned, “The captain was very friendly and helpful,” which makes a big difference in creating a relaxed atmosphere. Several reviews also note that the boat’s size facilitates a more intimate experience, perfect for families or small groups.

People with different needs appreciated the assistance provided, such as helping a wheelchair user into the boat, which hints at the tour’s more inclusive nature. The ability to jump off the boat easily at each stop is another plus, making it easy to enjoy the water at your own pace.

Authentic Feedback

A traveler described the trip as “spectacular,” and others appreciated the opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. The boat’s space and the helpful crew contributed significantly to their enjoyment. Even those who wanted more time ashore found the stops satisfying for a quick but meaningful visit.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $35 per person, this tour is impressively affordable considering the number of stops, the inclusion of drinks, snorkeling gear, and the chance to see some of Croatia’s lesser-known islands. It offers a relaxed, scenic way to experience the sea and islands without the pressure of a full day’s commitment or expensive prices.

The limited time on each island might be a con for those eager to explore thoroughly, but it’s perfect for a taste of island life and water fun. Plus, the small boat size makes it more personal and manageable, especially for families or those nervous about large boat tours.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for families with children, thanks to its safety, friendly crew, and shallow swimming spots. It’s also great for anyone wanting a simple, no-fuss day on the water—whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic, and fun way to see the islands without breaking the bank, this tour checks those boxes.

However, if you’re an avid explorer or want to spend significant time on each island, you might find the stops a bit brief. Those looking for detailed history or extensive beach lounging might prefer other options or longer tours.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It’s a half-day experience, typically around 4 hours, including all stops and swimming time.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the boat tour, fuel, the skipper, snorkeling masks, life vests, drinks (juice, water, beer), and the use of the toilet onboard.

Are the stops good for swimming?
Absolutely. Each location offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the water, with some stops featuring sandy beaches and others rocky shores.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that it’s friendly for families, with helpful staff and safe water stops. The boat’s manageable size helps keep safety a priority.

Do I need to pay any additional fees?
Yes, there’s a docking fee of 10 euros per person payable in cash, which covers the access to the islands for the day. Children under 10 pay 5 euros.

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

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Zadar offers a practical and enjoyable way to explore some of Croatia’s charming islands. With friendly crew, accessible swimming spots, and a good value price, it appeals to a broad range of travelers. It’s especially suitable if you’re after a relaxed, scenic day on the water with plenty of chances to dip into the sea.

While the brief stops might not satisfy those wanting a deep dive into the islands’ histories or extensive exploration, it’s perfect for a quick escape, family fun, or simply enjoying the Croatian coast’s natural beauty. If you’re happy with a laid-back, well-organized trip that balances sightseeing with water play, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

Happy sailing, and enjoy your Croatian island adventure!

You can check availability for your dates here: