Zadar: Guided Speedboat Tour with Food, Oil & Wine Tasting

Travelers craving a lively, authentic taste of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast will find this speedboat tour offers an exhilarating ride combined with genuine local flavor. It’s a well-rounded experience designed for those who love scenic vistas, a dash of history, and delicious regional produce — all at a surprisingly affordable price.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances adventure and relaxation. The thrill of zipping across azure waters on a modern speedboat is a highlight, as is the chance to unwind on quiet beaches or explore charming islands. Plus, the opportunity to taste home-made seafood, premium olive oil, and regional wines directly from local families adds an authentic touch that’s often missing from more commercial excursions.

One thing to keep in mind is the choppiness of the boat ride — some reviews mention the boat can get quite lively, which might not suit travelers with back issues or a preference for smoother rides. Also, since this is a half-day experience, it’s perfect for a quick dose of island hopping but might leave those looking for a longer adventure wanting more.

This tour is ideal for active travelers, families, or anyone eager to see the Dalmatian islands with a local flavor. If you enjoy boat trips with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and tasting, you’ll likely find this experience a highlight of your trip to Zadar.

This experience made our article of The 11 Most Popular Food Tours In Zadar.

Key Points

• Scenic island hopping aboard a new, well-maintained speedboat.
• Authentic local experiences with food, wine, and olive oil tastings.
• Multiple swimming opportunities in crystal-clear waters.
• Knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts and stories.
• Flexible stops with time for exploring, relaxing, or sampling regional specialties.
• Affordable price point offers excellent value for the variety of experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the Zadar Speedboat Experience

When considering a tour like this, you want to know what’s really involved. We’ve broken down what you can expect, the highlights, and a few practical tips so you can decide if this adventure suits your travel style.

Starting Point and Group Size

The tour kicks off at Jazine harbour, specifically at the west entrance next to Barka Bar & Caffe. Arriving about 10 minutes early is wise, to get settled and catch any last-minute instructions.

Group sizes tend to be manageable — typically around 7 to 12 people — which means plenty of space for mingling, but still feeling like an intimate adventure. This isn’t a massive cruise; it’s designed to give you personalized attention from guides who are not only knowledgeable but also friendly and approachable.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do

Cruising Past Zadar’s Landmarks

The tour begins with a cruise past Zadar’s iconic city walls from the seaside, offering a quick glimpse of the historic fortifications dating back to the 12th and 16th centuries. You’ll also get a chance to see the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun — fascinating modern installations that contrast nicely with the old city.

This initial stretch is a great way to get a sense of Zadar’s blend of history and modernity, with plenty of opportunity for photos.

Island Stops and Swimming

The first major stop is Osljak Island, the smallest inhabited Croatian island. We loved the way this tiny piece of land can be circled in about 20 minutes — but don’t underestimate its charm. The waters here are crystal clear, inviting for a swim or some snorkelling. Many reviews highlight the beautiful, clean waters and the chance to explore underwater life with provided snorkel gear.

The second stop is at Preko Village on Ugljan Island, a place bursting with medieval architecture, cozy cafes, and local shops. A short walk leads to a turquoise bay nestled between Galevac and Preko, where you can take a refreshing dip or simply relax on the beach.

Visiting Galevac Island’s Monastery

A highlight for many is the visit to the Franciscan Monastery of St. Paul The Hermit on Galevac Island. It’s a peaceful spot with interesting history, offering a quieter contrast to the lively boat rides. Exploring the island provides some nice sightseeing opportunities, and the guided commentary helps bring its past to life.

Tasting Local Products

After exploring Galevac, the tour takes a charming detour to a local family’s fishing estate. Here, you’ll indulge in a degustation of organic seafood, premium olive oil, and regional wines. This is more than just a snack — it’s a chance to taste the fruits of Croatian tradition, with many reviewers praising the freshness and authenticity of these home-produced products. One guest noted, “The visit to tasting of Mrotine farm products was authentic, and our host made us feel very welcome.”

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes unlimited bottled water, snorkeling gear, windproof jackets, and safety vests. The tasting session is also part of the package, making this a convenient, all-in-one experience.

You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes for walking around islands, sunglasses and hat for sun protection, swimwear and a towel for swimming, sunscreen, and some cash for souvenirs or additional snacks. Since the tour may be postponed due to weather, it’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible with timing.

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Price and Value

At $35 per person, this experience offers exceptional value. Considering the multiple stops, guided commentary, swimming, and tasting, it’s quite a bargain. Many reviews mention the good value for the money, especially given how much varied activity is packed into a half-day.

While there is a dock fee of €15 per adult (and €7.50 per child) not included in the price, these are standard charges that are clearly communicated beforehand. The tour does not include hotel transfers, so plan accordingly to meet at Jazine harbor.

Authenticity and Guide Quality

The reviews emphasize knowledgeable guides who are not just entertaining but also eager to share stories and historical insights. Guests consistently remark on how friendly and accommodating the guides are, with many praising their ability to tailor the experience to passenger interests.

One reviewer said, “Our guide Iza was very knowledgeable and created a pleasant, fun atmosphere.” Others highlighted guides like Tony, Sabrina, Luka, and Dominik, all of whom received high marks for their professionalism and friendliness.

The Boat Ride: A Balance of Fun and Comfort

The speedboat itself is described as modern and well-maintained, with many reviewers noting the thrill of the ride. Some mention the choppiness of the waters — a common feature of open sea trips — so if you’re prone to seasickness or have back issues, consider this before booking. A few reviews appreciated the smooth handling by skippers like Luka and Toni, which made the ride comfortable despite the lively seas.

Overall Experience: What Travelers Say

The majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Guests love the combination of sightseeing, swimming, and tasting, with many calling it “the best activity in Zadar”. The friendly guides, stunning scenery, and authentic local food seem to be the standout features.

Some reviews mention the opportunity to swim at each stop, which many found especially enjoyable. Others praised the local family producers for sharing their craft in a warm, welcoming manner.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy boat rides, scenic views, and a bit of exploration. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to combine activity with relaxation and local flavor.

If you’re after a more comprehensive or luxury experience, or prefer longer excursions, you might want to consider other options. But for those who value authentic encounters, stunning landscapes, and good value, this tour ticks most boxes.

The Sum Up

This speedboat tour from Zadar offers an excellent mix of adventure, cultural insight, and local flavors. The chance to hop between islands, swim in clear waters, and sample Croatian delicacies makes it a memorable experience that appeals to a broad range of travelers.

At just $35, it delivers a lot of value — especially thanks to the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and authentic tasting opportunities. The small group setting and flexible stops give it a personal touch, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests.

While the boat ride can be choppy, most guests find the excitement outweighs the discomfort. The experience is best suited for active, curious travelers who want to see the Dalmatian coast in a fun, engaging way, with plenty of opportunities to relax and savor local produce.

Ultimately, if you’re looking to explore Croatia’s islands with a local feel and a splash of adventure, this tour is a highly recommended choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 3 years old are not allowed on this tour. Most other children and teens will enjoy the boat ride and swimming opportunities.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash. These items will help you enjoy the day comfortably and prepare for swimming or snacks.

Does the tour include hotel transfers?
No, hotel transfers are not included. The meeting point is at Jazine harbor, so plan to arrive there about 10 minutes early.

Can I participate if I don’t want to swim?
Absolutely. You can relax on the boat or at the beaches without swimming — there’s plenty of time to explore or just enjoy the scenery.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about half a day, offering a good mix of travel, sightseeing, and relaxation.

What is the price for this experience?
It costs around $35 per person, which offers good value considering all the stops, tastings, and activities included.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak English, which is standard for these tours.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour may be postponed or canceled if weather conditions are unsafe. You can choose to reschedule or receive a refund.

Is there an age restriction for participation?
Yes, this experience is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments.

In summary, this speedboat tour from Zadar is a lively, authentic, and very affordable way to enjoy Croatia’s beautiful islands, learn about local life, and indulge in regional flavors. It’s a lively adventure suited for those eager to combine sightseeing with hands-on tastings and swimming in pristine waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: