Zadar: Ugljan, Oljak, and Preko Islands Speedboat Tour

Zadar: Ugljan, Oljak, and Preko Islands Speedboat Tour – a Friendly Guide to an Authentic Croatian Escape

Thinking about exploring Croatia’s beautiful Dalmatian islands without the fuss of big cruise ships or crowded tours? This speedboat trip from Zadar offers an intimate, exciting way to see some of the best hidden spots in the area. It’s perfect if you love the idea of hopping between islands, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and having a local skipper who knows all the best-kept secrets.

What we really like about this tour is how personal and relaxed the experience feels—small groups mean you get more space to breathe, ask questions, and truly enjoy each stop. Plus, the stops at Kostanj beach and the charming villages give you a taste of authentic Dalmatia, away from touristy crowds.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is the duration—just four hours—so if you’re craving a full day of island life or longer lounging, this might feel a bit brisk. Also, it’s not suited for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with health or mobility issues, so plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers looking for a quick, lively escape to the islands, especially those who appreciate a friendly guide, beautiful scenery, and a taste of local life. If you’re after a memorable day on the water with a personal touch, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Intimate experience: Small group (max 10 people) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Beautiful stops: Visit iconic spots like Kostanj beach, Oljak island, and the village of Preko, each offering unique scenery.
• Snorkeling included: Gear is provided, giving you the chance to explore underwater life at your own pace.
• Authentic Dalmatian flavor: Enjoy authentic views, local waters, and a friendly local skipper who guides the way.
• Duration and pace: Four hours might feel quick for some, but the itinerary is packed with engaging stops.
• Suitability: Not recommended for children under 2, pregnant women, or folks with specific health concerns, due to safety and comfort reasons.

The Full Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting Point and the Ride Out

The tour kicks off at Zadar Boat Tours, where your skipper will be waiting with the company logo at the waterfront (coordinates: 44.11086654663086, 15.227725982666016). From there, you’ll hop onto a brand-new speedboat, which promises both comfort and speed, making the trip between islands swift and fun.

The first leg is a quick 15-minute ride to Kostanj beach, one of the standout highlights. This sandy bay, with its calm waters, invites you to relax or take a swim almost immediately. It’s the perfect spot to cool off after your boat ride and enjoy some scenic views along the way. Many reviews mention the crystal-clear waters and how refreshing their swims were. Plus, you might find this the perfect moment to indulge in a cold drink or a quick snack from the boat’s cooler, which in reviews is often described as well-stocked with water and beer.

Stop at Kostanj Beach

Spending about an hour here, you’ll get ample time for a dip, snorkel, or simply soaking up the sun. Reviewers like Marina from Germany say, “It was amazing—the guide was really nice and the vibe, the boat, everything felt like a dream.” The calm bay and sandy bottom make it an ideal spot for snorkeling beginners, with marine life easily visible close to the surface.

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Next Stop: Oljak Island

The boat whisks you away again for another 15-minute ride to Oljak, a small but striking island in the Zadar channel. Here, you’ll get about 45 minutes to explore, swim, and take photos. Oljak is noted for its scenic views and secluded beaches, making it a favorite for those who like a peaceful retreat. Many reviewers mention how peaceful and unspoiled it feels, ideal for a quick escape from crowds.

Exploring Preko on Ugljan Island

The last major stop is the village of Preko, on Ugljan island—the largest island in the itinerary. You’ll spend around 75 minutes wandering around its streets, taking photos, and maybe grabbing a bite. The reviews highlight how special this stop is for experiencing local life, with plenty of charming streets and seaside cafes to enjoy. One traveler, Andrew from Qatar, shared how their group was able to walk around, have lunch, and dip in the sea—all within the allocated time. “It felt like a genuine slice of Dalmatian life,” he noted.

Return Journey

After soaking in Preko’s charm, the boat heads back for a final 15-minute ride to Zadar, wrapping up a quick but full 4-hour adventure. Many travelers mention how smoothly everything runs, with the boat arriving right on time and the skipper being friendly and informative throughout.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Personal Touch of the Skipper

One of the biggest hits, as seen in reviews, is Kristijan or Luka, the local skippers who clearly love what they do. They’re praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable and included. They also know the best spots for snorkeling and swimming, often showing you places you wouldn’t find on your own.

The Views and Water Activities

The stops are carefully chosen to give you a genuine taste of Dalmatian beauty. The crystal waters and scenic vistas are what make the experience memorable. With snorkeling gear included, you can explore underwater life at each stop, which many guests find to be a highlight.

Authentic Dalmatian Vibe with Good Value

Reviewers frequently mention the value for money—a 4-hour trip with multiple stops, beverages, and personalized service feels like a fair deal. The boat itself is described as clean and comfortable, with music and a lively atmosphere that adds to the fun.

What Could Be Better

While the experience scores highly, a few things to keep in mind:
– Time constraints: Four hours is a lovely taste but might leave you wanting more if you’re eager to explore longer or relax on the beach.
– Suitability: The tour isn’t designed for very young children, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues, so plan accordingly.
– Weather dependency: As with all boat trips, the experience can be affected by weather. Calm seas make for smoother rides and better snorkeling, so check the forecast before booking.

Pricing and Overall Value

This tour is described as good value, offering a lot in a short time—especially considering the included snorkeling gear, drinks, and the personalized experience. Compared to larger group tours or full-day excursions, the small group approach offers more comfort and flexibility. If you appreciate a more intimate and relaxed vibe, the price seems justified by the quality of stops and personal attention.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This trip is ideal if you want a quick, enjoyable taste of Dalmatia’s islands with a friendly guide and stunning scenery. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy water activities, picturesque villages, and a relaxed pace without the commitment of a full-day tour. It also fits those who prefer small groups over large crowds, making the experience feel more personal.

However, if you’re after a lengthy beach day, a multi-day adventure, or traveling with very young children or mobility challenges, this may not be the best fit. It’s also perfect for those with a sense of adventure and appreciation for local guides.

FAQ — Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, but it’s important to be comfortable in water. Snorkeling gear is provided, but if you’re not a confident swimmer, you may want to assess your comfort level with swimming or floating.

How long do we stay at each stop?
You’ll spend about 1 hour at Kostanj beach, 45 minutes at Oljak, and 75 minutes in Preko. The timing is designed to give you enough time to swim, take photos, and explore.

What should I bring?
Bring your sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. The tour is outdoors, and protection from the sun is important.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the boat has a cooler with water and beer, and reviewers mention enjoying local spirits and beverages during the trip.

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

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s not recommended for children under 2, pregnant women, or people with certain health issues, so it’s best suited for adults and older children who are comfortable on boats.

How many people are in the group?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a cozy, friendly atmosphere—more like a day with friends than a crowded tour.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the experience, so it’s wise to check the forecast. You may have the option to reschedule or get a refund if conditions are unsuitable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a short but sweet escape to some of Croatia’s most charming islands, this speedboat tour from Zadar offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, local flavor, and fun water activities. The small-group approach means you’ll get a more personalized experience, with knowledgeable guides making sure you see the best spots. The stops at Kostanj beach, Oljak, and Preko showcase the variety of Dalmatian scenery—calm bays, lively villages, and stunning coastal views.

While four hours may feel tight for those wanting a more leisurely or extensive exploration, most reviews indicate the trip is well organized, fun, and memorable. The overall high rating (4.9/5 from 168 reviews) speaks to its popularity and quality.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate good value, genuine local interactions, and a lively boat experience. If that sounds like your idea of a perfect day, it’s likely to be a trip you’ll fondly remember.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially for anyone looking to add a quick, scenic, and social adventure to their Dalmatian holiday. Just prepare for a lively, water-filled few hours, and you’ll be set for a fantastic Croatian day.

You can check availability for your dates here: