From Zadar: Island-Hopping Speedboat Tour with Drinks

If you’re looking for a quick but memorable taste of Croatia’s beautiful coastline, the Zadar Island-Hopping Speedboat Tour with Drinks is an excellent option. While I haven’t been on it personally, this tour has earned perfect reviews from hundreds of travelers, and from what I can gather, it offers a blend of scenic beauty, relaxed fun, and a touch of adventure—all in just half a day.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s small-group friendly, so you won’t be lost in a sea of strangers; the personalized touch really enhances the experience. Second, the stops are thoughtfully chosen for their beauty and variety, offering swimming, snorkeling, and exploring charming villages. A slight consideration is that there’s no toilet on the boat, so plan accordingly if that’s a concern. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic way to enjoy the crystal waters and stunning scenery of the Zadar Archipelago, especially if you enjoy a casual social atmosphere or are traveling with family.

This experience made our article of 12 Best Tours & Experiences In Zadar.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary with stops for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing aboard the boat
• Small-group setting ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience
• All-inclusive drinks and snorkeling gear add to the value and convenience
• Optional town visit in Preko for souvenirs and local snacks
• Price point around $36 offers a good balance of affordability and quality
• Highly rated with over 600 reviews, maintaining a 5-star average

The Details of the Tour

This 4-hour adventure begins at a designated meeting point in Zadar, where your friendly guide or manager will check your tickets and get everyone organized. The tour isn’t physically demanding but requires you to be able to get in and out of the speedboat comfortably. It’s best suited for travelers who are mobile and independent—though the boat’s small size limits overweight guests to around 120kg/250lbs.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Blue Bay Otri
Your first stop is a well-kept secret—Blue Bay Otri. Here, you’ll find a sheltered, crystal-clear bay perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The water’s clarity draws many, and the calm environment makes it a relaxing start. You can stay on the boat if you prefer to relax, but most guests dive in to enjoy the inviting waters. The reviews mention the beautiful water and the ease of access, with one saying, “The snorkel area was really clear just not much to see in terms of fish, but the water was beautiful.”

Stop 2: Kali
The second stop is a bit more flexible, depending on weather and sea conditions. It might be a different spot each day, chosen to give the best experience. Expect roughly 75 minutes here, which is enough time to soak up the sun, take photos, or swim around. Passengers often appreciate the casual atmosphere and the chance to relax or explore.

Stop 3: Preko
The final stop is the small town of Preko, where travelers can enjoy a sandy beach—great for families or anyone wanting a leisurely end to the trip. The town also offers a chance to buy souvenirs and sample local snacks. Reviews highlight how this stop offers plenty of options, and many appreciate the free time to explore or unwind. One reviewer noted, “We had plenty of time at each stop, and the beautiful swim spots, combined with the town visit, made it a well-rounded experience.”

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price:
– Snorkeling equipment (snorkel and mask)
– Unlimited water and iced tea—keeps everyone hydrated under the sun
– A friendly skipper and guide who offers local insights and jokes (some bad, but endearing)
– Fuel—so no worries about hidden costs here

Not included:
– Docking fees (charged separately, usually at the start of the tour)
– Towels, swimming fins, or food (bring your own if you want snacks)
– No toilet on the boat, so plan ahead if needed
– No parking or transportation included, so arrange your own arrival

The Cost and Value

At around $36 per person, this tour provides great value, considering the small-group setting, multiple stops, and all drinks and snorkel gear. Travelers consistently praise the quality of the guides and the beautiful scenery—many mention it as a highlight of their trip to Zadar. The reviews highlight that the tour offers plenty of free time at each stop, which many find ideal for relaxing or exploring at their own pace.

The Experience: What Travelers Can Expect

From arrival to departure, the experience is designed to be smooth and enjoyable. After meeting at the designated spot, you’ll board the clean, well-maintained speedboat, often with just a handful of others, making the trip feel exclusive rather than crowded. Expect a light-hearted skipper who keeps the mood upbeat with stories and jokes, along with free-flowing drinks to help you soak in the sun.

The first swim in Blue Bay is often a crowd favorite, thanks to the crystal-clear water and the opportunity to snorkel. Some reviews mention the water’s transparency and how easy it is to get in and out of the boat. The second stop is more flexible, depending on weather, but always offers something scenic and relaxing. The final stop at Preko provides an opportunity to stretch your legs, wander around, or grab a souvenir.

Many travelers mention the lively atmosphere, the excellent guide (sometimes named), and the value for money. For example, one reviewer said, “Enzo always made sure we had a drink in our hands and gave great recommendations.” Another beamed about how the boat was not overly crowded, which added to the comfort.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a leisurely way to discover some of Zadar’s most beautiful spots. It’s especially suitable if you want to avoid long, full-day excursions but still crave a taste of the Adriatic’s beauty.

If you’re not comfortable with getting in and out of small boats or prefer more structured activities, this might not be ideal. But if you’re looking for a relaxed day with swimming, sightseeing, and a few drinks, it hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

This island-hopping speedboat tour offers a fantastic introduction to the Zadar Archipelago, combining beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and good value. The small-group setting makes it more personal and relaxed, and the stops are varied enough to keep everyone entertained. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want a fun, hassle-free way to explore Croatia’s coast without the commitment of a full day or a big tour group.

The reviews repeatedly praise the guide’s knowledge, the stunning swimming spots, and the overall value. The inclusion of drinks and snorkeling gear makes it feel like a true little escape. And, with the option to explore Preko, you get a taste of local life along with scenic views.

If your idea of a great day involves speed, sun, and beautiful waters, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to make the most of your time near Zadar. It’s an experience that’s both refreshing and authentic, perfect for those wanting to combine light adventure with relaxing fun.

FAQs

Is there a minimum or maximum number of travelers?
Yes, the tour has a maximum of 12 travelers, creating an intimate experience. It’s often booked by groups and small parties.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your own towels if you want to dry off, and wear comfortable clothing suitable for swimming and sunbathing. Towels and fins aren’t provided, so pack your own if desired.

Are there any physical limitations?
You should be able to move independently and comfortably get in and out of the speedboat. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or children under a certain age, as the boat is small and there’s no toilet onboard.

How is the weather impact?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, the trip may be canceled, and you’ll be offered an alternate date or a full refund.

Are the drinks alcoholic?
The tour includes up to three complimentary beers per person, but non-alcoholic options are available. You’re encouraged to relax and enjoy the sun.

Is there parking nearby?
Parking isn’t included, so plan to arrive by taxi, public transport, or walking from your accommodation.

This tour balances scenic beauty, relaxed pace, and good company—a great way to see the islands without the hassle. Whether you’re swimming in Blue Bay Otri, wandering the streets of Preko, or just soaking up the sun on deck, it’s an experience that many travelers rank as one of their highlights in Zadar.