Zadar: Paradise Islands Boat Tour – Silba, Olib, Ist & Molat

Thinking about soaking up Croatia’s stunning coastline without the hassle of crowds? This Zadar: Paradise Islands Boat Tour offers a chance to explore some of the most beautiful, lesser-visited islands with a small, relaxed group. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, laid-back experience away from tourist hotspots, with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and scenic stops.

What we really like about this tour is how personalized it feels—you’re limited to just 12 adults, making for a more intimate day on the water. Plus, the route is designed to steer clear of busy areas, so you’ll get uninterrupted views and peaceful moments in pristine nature. That said, it’s quite an active day, so if you’re after a slow, relaxing cruise, this might be a bit fast-paced for you. But if you’re eager to see multiple islands and enjoy a full day of exploration, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits those who love a blend of adventure and culture—whether you’re into snorkeling over sunken sarcophagi, wandering small villages, or just soaking up the sun on sandy beaches. It’s also a great pick for travelers who value good value: at about $102 per person, it packs in a full day of diverse activities, beautiful scenery, and local insights.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Limited to 12 adults for a more personal feel.
• Variety of Stops: Seven unique spots, including beaches, villages, and cultural sites.
• Active & Fun: Plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and exploring—no sitting still for long.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Snorkel gear, bottled water, and fuel costs covered; just bring cash for extras.
• Authentic Local Experience: Enjoy local cuisine and discover the charm of island villages.
• Weather Dependent: Tour is subject to good weather; good to have a backup plan in case of rain.

A Full-Day Adventure from Zadar

The tour kicks off bright and early at 9:00 am from Obala kneza Trpimira, right in Zadar. From the start, you’re in good hands with experienced guides and a friendly crew, eager to share their local knowledge. The small boat, capped at about 12-14 people, means you won’t be squeezed into a crowd—perfect for chatting, relaxing, and taking in the scenery.

What makes this tour special is how it’s structured to give you maximum variety without feeling rushed. It’s a well-paced day that balances active exploration with downtime for lounging and swimming.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Olib Island

Your morning begins on Olib, often called the King of Sandy Croatian Beaches. This island’s lagoon is a standout—vibrant whites and turquoise waters surround you, making it a perfect spot to dip your toes in the water or snap photos of the stunning scenery. The visit here lasts about 45 minutes, long enough to soak up the peaceful vibe and enjoy some quick swimming.

Stop 2: Silba – Pocukmark Bay

Next, you’ll head to Silba, a charming island with a mysterious edge thanks to its ancient sunken sarcophagi. Here, the snorkeling is top-notch—an activity that many reviews highlight as a favorite. You’ll get to explore the marine life and learn stories about the first inhabitants of the island, adding a hint of history to your leisurely underwater adventure.

Stop 3: Sotorie Bay

Continuing on Silba, Sotorie Bay is another highlight—crystal-clear waters and soft sand make it an ideal place to relax. Many people take the chance to play “picigin,” a traditional Croatian beach game, or simply unwind with a cold drink. It’s described as a turquoise paradise, perfect for a good break and some fun in the sun.

Stop 4: Silba Village & Art

Back on Silba, you’ll get to explore the small village with its open-air art gallery. Croatian sculptress Marija Ujevi-Galetovi has created some interesting sculptures here, adding a cultural touch to your day. A relaxed walk through the village gives you a taste of local life and some downtime before the next adventure.

Stop 5: Ist Island – Lunch & Exploration

Midday, it’s time for a longer stop—about two hours—on Ist. This is your chance to try some local cuisine at a restaurant under shady olive trees or pine forests. Many reviews mention the delicious local food and the calming atmosphere of this island, making it a great way to recharge before the afternoon.

Stop 6: Molat Island – Final Swim & Relaxation

The last stop is Molat, where you can enjoy untouched nature, sandy lagoons, and the sounds of crickets. Many find this a peaceful spot to swim, relax, and savor the final moments of your day on the water. It’s a laid-back, almost untouched slice of paradise.

Stop 7: Sunset at Greeting to the Sun & Sea Organ

As the day winds down, the boat cruises back toward Zadar with a stop at the famous Greeting to the Sun and Sea Organ. These are iconic sights—the sea-inspired sound sculptures and the sunset views—that give your trip a cultural and visual finish. It’s a lovely setting to reflect on the day’s adventures.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Snorkeling over sunken sarcophagi is a unique experience that many travelers rave about. The clear waters and marine life make it an exciting activity, and it’s all included in the price, so you don’t need to worry about extra gear.
The small, intimate group means you’ll have plenty of room to relax and ask questions, and the guides are known for being helpful and knowledgeable—they love sharing stories and local insights, which many reviews confirm.
The variety of stops keeps the day interesting; from beaches to villages to cultural sites, every moment feels fresh and engaging. Plus, the included bottled water ensures you stay well-hydrated without extra fuss.

Food lovers will enjoy the lunch stop on Ist, where local cuisine served under the shade of olive trees is often highlighted as a highlight. The balance of activity and downtime means you can really enjoy your meal without rushing.

Things to Keep in Mind

While this tour is fantastic for most travelers, it’s important to note it’s quite active—swimming, snorkeling, walking around islands—and this might not suit everyone. The trip is weather-dependent, and if poor weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.
Children over 8 are welcome but should share a seat with their guardians; the tour isn’t specifically geared toward families with very young children or those with mobility issues. Also, bring cash for personal expenses like food, drinks, or souvenirs, as these aren’t included.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who appreciates small-group adventures, loves discovering off-the-beaten-path spots, and enjoys active days full of swimming and exploring, this tour will probably check all your boxes. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a full-day program that combines nature, culture, and relaxation, all wrapped in a friendly, approachable package.

However, if you prefer a slow-paced, laid-back day with plenty of downtime, or you’re traveling with small children or individuals with mobility concerns, this might feel a bit hurried or strenuous. But for those who want to maximize their time on the Croatian coast with a dash of culture and adventure, it’s a worthwhile choice.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point in Zadar.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers snorkeling gear, bottled water, fuel and navigation costs, and the services of an experienced, English-speaking crew.

Are meals provided?
No, lunch isn’t included, but you’ll have the opportunity to try local cuisine on Ist Island at a recommended restaurant. You can bring cash for personal expenses.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children up to age 8 are advised to share a seat with a parent or guardian. The tour isn’t recommended for very small children or those with certain health issues.

What 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 bring anything?
Casual summer clothes, swimwear, a towel, and cash for extras are recommended. Sunscreen and a hat are also good ideas.

Final Thoughts

This small-group boat tour from Zadar offers a fantastic way to see Croatia’s lesser-known islands, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and explore cultural sites without feeling rushed. The focus on personalized service and stunning scenery makes it a great pick for travelers who want an active, memorable day on the water.

If you’re after an experience that combines natural beauty, local charm, and some adventure, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a chance to dive into Croatia’s coastal magic with a friendly crew, in a setting that’s both peaceful and lively—a perfect fit for those who cherish genuine, well-rounded travel moments.