Zadar: 3 Island Speedboat Tour with Gin & Tonic and Wine

Looking for a way to experience Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast beyond just lounging on a beach? This 3-island speedboat tour from Zadar offers a unique blend of scenic views, cultural intrigue, and leisure. It’s a popular choice among travelers wanting authentic island hopping with a laid-back vibe, and it’s easy to see why the reviews are nearly perfect at a 4.9 out of 5 from over 200 happy travelers.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure with relaxation. The crystal-clear waters make for fantastic snorkeling, and the stops at small, historically rich islands add a layer of cultural discovery. Plus, the included ice-cold gin & tonic and unlimited wine turn a simple boat ride into a floating social gathering. The main consideration? Since there’s a docking fee of €10 per person payable on arrival, travelers should factor this into their budget.

This tour suits anyone eager to combine scenic beauty, local history, and good company. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who love a relaxed pace and authentic island atmospheres. If you’re after a lively yet intimate experience that offers genuine Croatian charm, this trip will deliver.

This experience made our article of The 8 Top Wine Tours In Zadar: Which Is Best?.

Key Points

• Authentic Croatian Experience: Small group, local skipper, relaxed vibe.
• Stunning Water & Snorkeling: Crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and exploring marine life.
• Rich Cultural Stops: Learn about Croatia’s small inhabited islands with historical sites.
• Included Drinks & Snacks: Two gin & tonics, unlimited wine, water, and soft drinks enhance the journey.
• Value for Money: At $28, the experience packs in scenic stops, cultural insights, and social fun.
• Comfort & Convenience: Modern speedboat, snorkeling gear provided, and flexible cancellation options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look into the Experience

The Itinerary: A Perfect Mix of Beauty and Culture

The tour begins with a prompt departure from Zadar, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic coastline even before the boat pulls away. The first stop is Kostanj Bay, a hidden gem renowned for its exceptionally clear waters. Here, you’ll have about 40 minutes to swim and snorkel — a highlight according to many reviews. Travelers often mention how crystal-clear water and vibrant marine life make this a memorable spot to cool off and take photos.

One guest noted, “Our guide Tony did a very good job. Good music, some wine, nice explanation about the islands. We loved it!” This reflects the relaxed and friendly atmosphere onboard, where the local skipper shares insights into the areas visited while keeping the mood lively.

Discovering Osljak: The Smallest Croatian Inhabited Island

Next, the boat heads to Island Osljak, a small but historically rich place. Once inhabited during Roman times, it now hosts just 29 residents. Many travelers find this stop especially intriguing for its medieval architecture and historical remnants, like the IX-century church and WWII hospital ruins hidden in the greenery. The quaint landscape and Mediterranean charm make wandering here a delight.

Some guests enjoy climbing the small hill for spectacular views of the surrounding sea, while others prefer a leisurely walk along the shore. The island’s quiet pace offers a stark contrast to bustling Zadar, and many reviews mention its peaceful ambiance.

Island Preko: A Lively Local Hub

A short trip away is Island Preko, which buzzes during summer with activity. It’s perfect for a half-hour stop where you can browse local shops or enjoy a sea-view coffee. Many visitors appreciate this stop for the chance to stroll around and soak in the island’s authentic vibe.

From Preko, adventurous travelers might opt to swim over to Galevac, an nearby tiny island with an ancient monastery amid the trees — a fun find for explorers. If you prefer, you can relax on the small sandy beach or snorkel in the crystal waters.

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Returning with Memories and a Final Look at Zadar

As the boat makes its way back, you’ll enjoy a last glimpse of Zadar from the water, giving you a different perspective on this historic city. Many reviews highlight how the boat ride itself becomes part of the experience — especially when the skipper opens up the throttle for a thrilling ride.

Comfort, Value, and Practical Details

The modern speedboat ensures a comfortable ride, and snorkeling equipment is included, making it easy for even beginners to enjoy marine exploration. The small group size offers a more personalized experience, and the price of $28 per person covers most essentials, including petrol, the skipper, and drinks.

However, travelers should remember the €10 docking fee payable on arrival, which is typical for such excursions but worth budgeting for. The tour does not include lunch, but the focus is on the experience and scenery, so plan to bring snacks or eat beforehand.

Authenticity and Reviews: What Travelers Say

The overwhelming majority of reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, with many mentioning guides like Tony and Gogo for their friendly attitude and helpfulness. The stunning scenery is frequently highlighted, with guests describing the stops as beautiful and peaceful.

Aquatic adventures like snorkeling are described as fantastic, with many noting the crystal-clear waters that invite underwater exploration. The drinks, especially the wine and gin & tonic, are a big hit, adding a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

A guest shared, “The trip was very nice. The skipper (Tony) showed us very beautiful places of the Croatian coast. Help was very kind and there’s also drinks included with the trip.” This sums up the balance of scenic beauty, local hospitality, and good value.

The Overall Experience: Worthwhile for Many

Travelers consistently mention the well-organized nature of the tour, the diverse stops, and the friendly guides who make the journey engaging. The price point is considered fair, especially given the included drinks and snorkeling gear.

Some minor criticisms include the length of the journey or longer-than-necessary stops as suggested by a few reviews. But overall, most agree that this is an excellent way to experience the Croatian coast in a relaxed, social setting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy water activities and want a laid-back social atmosphere. It appeals strongly to those interested in local culture and history, thanks to the stops at Osljak and Preko.

If you’re hoping for beautiful scenery, good company, and a reasonable price, this tour ticks those boxes perfectly. It’s also ideal for solo travelers or small groups who want to meet like-minded people while exploring.

However, if you prefer a more structured or upscale experience, or are looking for full-day excursions with meals included, this might not be your best fit. Yet, for an authentic, fun, and value-packed way to see the islands, it’s hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including the three stops and the boat ride.

What’s included in the price?
You get a modern speedboat ride, local skipper/guide, petrol, snorkeling equipment, 2 drinks (G&T at each stop), and unlimited wine, water, and soft drinks.

Is there an extra charge I should know about?
Yes, there’s a €10 docking fee per person payable upon arrival, which covers all stops.

Can I bring my own towels or food?
Towels are not included, and food is not part of the package. You might want to bring your own towel and snacks, as lunch is not included.

What is the boat like?
It’s a modern speedboat, comfortable for small groups, ensuring a smooth ride and good sightseeing vantage points.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore the waters around Kostanj Bay and elsewhere.

Are there options for exploring more on the islands?
The stops at Osljak and Preko offer opportunities for walking, exploring ruins, or swimming, but the tour is designed for a relaxed schedule.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, a hat, and sunscreen are advisable. No mention of specific dress code, but swimwear is recommended for swimming and snorkeling.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing schedules.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Parking isn’t available at the meeting point, especially in the summer, so plan accordingly and allow extra time to find a spot.

This Zadar 3 Island Speedboat Tour offers a genuine taste of Croatia’s coastal charm—combining stunning scenery, cultural history, and social fun at an affordable price. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides ensure you’ll get personalized attention and insightful stories about the islands. The crystal waters and snorkeling opportunities make it engaging for aquatic lovers, while the included drinks add a touch of conviviality.

For travelers wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour delivers in spades. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic local experiences over overly commercialized excursions. Whether you’re a solo traveler looking to meet new friends or a couple seeking a memorable day out, this trip will leave you with stories to tell and plenty of photos to cherish.

If you value great views, friendly guides, and good value, this is an experience worth considering during your stay in Zadar.

You can check availability for your dates here: