Zadar: 3-Stop Blue Lagoon & Snorkeling Cruise with Drinks

If you’re looking for a way to get out on the water and see some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, this 3-stop Blue Lagoon & Snorkeling Cruise from Zadar is worth considering. With a friendly guide, a luxury speedboat, and multiple snorkeling opportunities, it offers a comfortable yet authentic taste of Dalmatia’s coast.

What really appeals about this tour is the chance to explore three different locations, each with its own charm, and to snorkel in clear waters that showcase the area’s natural beauty. Plus, the small group setting means you’ll get a more personal experience, away from the crowds.

A potential drawback? The tour involves a few stops, which means some travelers might find the pace a bit quick, especially if they want more time in a single spot. Also, there’s a small additional fee for docking, and food isn’t included — so bring snacks or plan to dine ashore.

This experience best suits travelers who want a balance of fun, scenery, and cultural flavor, especially those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and learning about local places from a knowledgeable skipper.

This experience made our article of Zadar’s 12 Best Cruises And Boat Tours.

Key Points

• Three diverse stops offer a mix of natural beauty and small Dalmatian villages
• Snorkeling gear and disinfected equipment provided for underwater exploration
• A small group setting fosters a more relaxed and personable experience
• The skipper shares local insights, making each stop more meaningful
• Unbeatable value at around $31 per person, with drinks included
• Additional fees include a small docking fee, paid on arrival

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Day on Croatia’s Coast

This half-day cruise from Zadar is designed to give you a taste of Croatia’s stunning waterways, charming islands, and lively seafaring culture—all from a well-appointed speedboat. It’s a chance to see a different side of Dalmatia that’s both fun and relaxed, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

You’ll start at a meeting point near the Tornado sign, where the crew, led by your guide Agnieszka, will greet you with warmth and professionalism. Once on board, the boat itself is described as a “luxury speedboat,” which suggests a smooth ride and comfortable seating for the approximately 4-hour trip. With a max group size that offers intimacy but enough company to meet fellow travelers, it strikes a good balance.

Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Blue Lagoon Bay

The Blue Lagoon is the star of this tour. The shallow, crystal-clear waters and soft sand make it ideal for snorkeling and swimming. You’ll probably appreciate the calmness of this spot, which offers a peaceful environment away from the busier areas. Many reviewers emphasize the quality of snorkeling here, noting the visibility and the chance to glimpse underwater life.

One guest summed up the experience as “exploring the underwater world,” with another remarking that the lagoon’s “ambiance and tranquility” made it a highlight. The 40-minute stop is just enough to relax, enjoy some splashing around, and take photos of the stunning surroundings.

Second Stop: Small Village on Ugljan Island

Next, you’ll sail to a quaint Dalmatian village on Ugljan Island. The visit here isn’t just about scenery; it’s about soaking in local life—strolling along the shoreline, dipping into the Adriatic, and perhaps grabbing a quick bite. Many visitors mention enjoying local seafood, particularly fried sardines and calamari, at very affordable prices. It’s a chance to experience the slower pace of island life and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two.

A reviewer described this stop as “walking along the shore, swimming, or enjoying local seafood with a small price tag,” emphasizing how authentic and accessible this part of the tour feels.

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Third Stop: Island Preko & Galevac Monastery

The final stop takes you to Island Preko. There’s usually time to lounge on a small sandy beach or snorkel once more in the shallower waters. The unique feature here is a short boat ride to Galevac, where you can visit an ancient monastery hidden among the trees. This adds an element of historic curiosity to your day, offering a glimpse of Croatia’s spiritual and architectural heritage.

Guests describe the trip to Galevac as “discovering a monastery amongst the trees,” and many find the mix of natural and cultural sights a perfect conclusion to the tour.

The Practicalities

The tour costs around $31 per person, which is exceptional value considering the inclusion of a luxury speedboat ride, snorkeling gear, and drinks. However, there’s a €10 docking fee per person payable in cash on arrival — a small extra that’s often overlooked but worth planning for.

The snorkeling equipment is disinfected and ready to use, so no need to worry about hygiene or bringing your own gear unless you prefer. The tour runs in English, and the guides are praised for their local knowledge, making each stop interesting and engaging.

Timing is about half a day, with departures early enough to fit into most itineraries. The experience is suitable for those aged under 80, but pregnant women, people with back or mobility issues, and anyone with recent surgeries should consider other options.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are glowing, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 from over 1,200 reviews. Common themes include the knowledgeable guides—particularly Skipper Toni and others—who share stories and local insights that bring each location to life.

People love the combination of “stunning views,” “crystal waters,” and “authentic small villages.” Many mention that the snorkeling is a highlight, with some noting the varied underwater scenery—shallow sandy spots and rocky areas with fish—though one reviewer did mention that the seabed appeared “pretty dead,” which highlights that underwater life can vary.

The value for money is frequently praised, especially with unlimited drinks provided on board, including local wines, which add a nice touch of relaxation. Several reviewers also appreciated the personal touch from guides like Bart, Marco, and Fabrizio, who made the trip both fun and informative.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is well-suited for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a relaxed day on the water. It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, given the boat’s activities and limited accessibility.

If you’re interested in authentic island experiences, local cuisine, and a chance to snorkel in pristine waters, this trip hits the mark. It’s also a good choice if you prefer small-group tours that emphasize personal interaction and local storytelling.

Final Thoughts

This 3-Stop Blue Lagoon & Snorkeling Cruise offers exceptional value and a chance to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots without breaking the bank. The combination of scenic beauty, friendly guides, and authentic stops makes it a fun and memorable experience.

While it’s not a full-day tour or a deep dive into Croatian history or culture, it provides a well-rounded taste of Dalmatia’s coastal charm. For anyone wanting to enjoy the water, explore small villages, and snorkel in clear seas, it’s a straightforward, enjoyable choice.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and friendly outing that won’t cost a fortune, this trip is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a luxury speedboat ride, a guide/skipper, snorkeling equipment, three stops at different locations, and unlimited drinks.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs around $31 per person, with an additional €10 docking fee payable in cash on arrival.

Is food included?
No, food is not included. You can buy local seafood at the village stop for a small price or bring your own snacks.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Snorkeling gear and life vests are provided, disinfected, and ready to use.

Is there a minimum or maximum age?
The tour is not suitable for those over 80, pregnant women, or people with certain mobility or health issues. It’s ideal for most other adults and children.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about half a day, roughly four hours, including all stops and travel time.

What are the stops like?
You’ll enjoy the calm Blue Lagoon for snorkeling, explore a charming Dalmatian village, and visit an island with a historic monastery. Each offers different scenery and experiences.

Are tours canceled easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How are the guides?
The reviews praise guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the experience personal and engaging.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

In sum, this tour offers a friendly, scenic, and affordable way to enjoy the Dalmatian coast’s best bits — perfect for those who love the water and authentic island life.

You can check availability for your dates here: