Preko is a fantastic base for exploring the stunning Croatian coast, especially because of its proximity to Zadar and the surrounding islands. Unlike big cities overwhelmed with travelers, Preko offers a more relaxed vibe—making it ideal for unique tours that combine scenery, culture, and fun. Among the options, we’re particularly fond of speedboat trips that let you zip around the Zadar archipelago, snorkel in clear waters, and enjoy local snacks on board. These tours stand out because they maximize your time on the water while giving you a genuine taste of the Croatian islands’ beauty and tranquility.
For those looking for a more comprehensive day experience, there’s also a longer boat trip that explores Kornati Islands and Telašćica Nature Park, perfect for nature lovers. And if you want to combine island adventures with local flavors and history, a trip with free beer, anchovies, and panoramic views might be just right. Below, we’ll walk you through each of these top choices, helping you decide which one fits your style.
1. Zadar: Speedboat Tour with Snorkeling & Fruit
This 4-hour speedboat tour from Zadar takes you to some of the most beautiful spots in the archipelago, including Village Preko, Island Ošljak, and Island Galevac. If you visit their speedboat tour with snorkeling and fruit, you’ll enjoy a lively mix of sightseeing and relaxation in just half a day—making it perfect for travelers with limited time.
The tour begins in Village Preko, a charming spot known for its beaches and traditional Croatian feel, where you can wander quiet streets and take photos. Next, you’ll head to Island Ošljak, a tiny island famous for its old stone houses and peaceful atmosphere—ideal for a gentle stroll or a quick swim. The final stop is Galevac, home to a historic monastery and calm waters.
What makes this trip stand out is the speedboat ride, which offers a sense of adventure and allows more time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on pristine beaches. The inclusion of snorkel gear and fresh fruit on board adds to the experience, making it easy to enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
Bottom line: This tour is great for adventure-seekers who want a quick, scenic, and fun way to explore the islands without sacrificing time.
2. Zadar: Ugljan, Frnaža, Galevac & Ošljak Free Beer & Anchovies
If you’re looking for a relaxed day with plenty of local flavor, this full-day tour combines island hopping with free drinks, homemade liquor, and snorkeling. Starting from Zadar, the tour offers panoramic views of Velebit mountain, the city, and the islands of Ugljan and Galevac.
This tour emphasizes cultural insights and local stories, with the guide sharing personal experiences about the Adriatic Sea life and history. As you sail on a spacious 7-meter boat, you’ll enjoy unlimited free beer, local anchovies, and homemade liquor—just what you need for a laid-back day. There’s plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe in the crystal waters, with snorkeling gear provided.
What makes this trip attractive is the balance of nature, local drinks, and storytelling. It’s ideal for travelers who want a more social experience, combining sightseeing with a taste of Croatian hospitality. Reviewers love the personal touch, with one saying, “The guide’s stories made the day even better.”
Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for those wanting a leisurely, engaging day on the water with free drinks and local treats.
3. Zadar: Speedboat Tour to 3 Islands – Swimming & Snorkeling
For around $26 per person, this speedboat cruise explores three picturesque islands in the Zadar archipelago. It’s a compact trip designed mainly for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on beaches, making it a good option for those who prefer a quick but immersive island experience.
The tour includes stops at Ošljak, the smallest inhabited island on the Adriatic, and Preko, a charming village with traditional stone houses. You’ll enjoy crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, with plenty of time to explore and soak up the sun. The thrilling speedboat ride itself is a highlight, giving you a sense of freedom and adventure across the sea.
While the reviews are modest—about a 4.8/5 from 33 reviews—the focus on exploring the islands’ natural beauty makes this a fun, straightforward option. It’s perfect if you’re looking for affordable and active island hopping with minimal fuss.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers who want a quick, fun, and scenic boat ride with snorkeling thrown in.
4. Preko: Lojena Beach, Kornati Islands and Telašćica Boat Trip
If your idea of a perfect day is to set sail for expansive islands and explore a nature park, this full-day boat trip is a standout. Starting from Preko, it takes you to the famous Kornati Islands and Telašćica Nature Park, along with a visit to Lojena Beach.
This tour is well-suited for nature lovers and active swimmers. You’ll explore the salt lake Lake Mir in Telašćica, which is a unique spot where you can jump into crystal-clear waters. The boat stops at Kornat Island, which has an old fortress and stone church—perfect for a quick walk and some photos.
The highlight is the chance to swim in the open sea, with fresh onboard meals that keep you energized for the day. The reviews note that this trip is more expensive—about $65 per person—but it offers a comprehensive look at some of Croatia’s most stunning natural scenery.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a full-day, scenic escape that combines active swimming, nature, and history.
$65 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, the amount of time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a relaxed or adventurous experience. For example, if speed and quick exploration are your priorities, the speedboat trips are excellent. If you want a more social, laid-back day with drinks and stories, the Ugljan and Galevac tour provides that. For nature and full-day exploration, the Kornati and Telašćica trip offers a deeper dive into Croatia’s natural beauty.
Booking early is a good idea, especially in peak season, to secure your spot on these popular trips. Also, think about your fitness level and interests—snorkeling and swimming are common to many options, but some tours include more cultural and scenic highlights.
Final Thoughts
Preko’s diverse tour options mean there’s something for every traveler. If you’re after a quick, exciting ride that combines sightseeing and snorkeling, the speedboat tours fit the bill. For those craving a laid-back, storytelling cruise with free drinks and local flavor, the Ugljan and Galevac tour is a winner. And if you’re eager to spend a full day enjoying Croatia’s most impressive islands and nature parks, then the Kornati and Telašćica trip is hard to beat.
Each of these experiences offers a different way to enjoy Croatia’s stunning coastline. To make the most of your trip, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend on the water. All these tours tend to fill up quickly during the warmer months, so booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
Enjoy your adventure in Preko—whether you’re zipping around the islands or soaking up the scenery, these tours promise memorable moments on the Croatian waters.