Private tour to Islands Ugljan, Oljak and Preko from Zadar

If you’re searching for a way to escape the busy streets of Zadar and experience the calm, scenic beauty of Croatia’s islands, a private speedboat tour might just be your perfect answer. This particular excursion, rated a perfect 5 out of 5 based on 24 reviews, takes you through some of the most charming spots around Zadar’s coast — all in about four hours. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and details paint a very inviting picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this experience is its personalized approach and stunning scenery. The ability to customize the tour according to your preferences means you’re not stuck in a rigid schedule; you can focus on swimming, sightseeing, or relaxing as you please. Plus, the promise of crystal-clear waters and delicious local food makes it clear that this isn’t just about sightseeing — it’s about creating memorable moments.

However, one thing to consider is the duration — four hours might feel a little quick, especially if you’re eager to explore the islands more leisurely or enjoy a meal ashore. But, for many, this compact trip offers a perfect snapshot of the area’s highlights without feeling rushed.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value intimate, flexible experiences, enjoy water activities, and want to see the islands without the fuss of large group tours. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group, and prefer a more exclusive, tailored adventure.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Tour is customizable to suit your preferences, making it ideal for those seeking a tailored day on the water.
• Highlights Include: Swimming in clear waters, visiting charming islands, and enjoying local food and drinks.
• Inclusive Comforts: Use of snorkel equipment, bottled water, motion sickness tablets, and sun protection are all provided.
• Authentic Local Touch: Skippers are local, knowledgeable, and often offer personalized tips, adding an authentic flavor to your trip.
• Good Value: For around $550 per group (up to 8), you gain a private, flexible experience that’s highly rated for intimacy and quality.
• Ideal Duration: Four hours strike a nice balance, giving enough time to explore multiple stops without feeling hurried.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Ugljan Island — The Sandy Beach at Kostanj

Your trip begins on Ugljan Island at Kostanj, a sandy beach well-loved for its natural beauty and tranquility. Here, the focus is on unwinding and enjoying the crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. According to reviews, this stop’s appeal lies in its seclusion — many travelers mention almost no crowds, making it feel like your own private paradise. Donna_N highlights that the island was “beautiful,” and the day was made special thanks to the local lunch recommendation.

Stop 2: Oljak Island — The Smallest Permanently Inhabited Island

Next, the boat slips over to Oljak, the smallest inhabited island in the Adriatic, with just 29 residents. Covering only 0.39 km², this tiny island offers an authentic glimpse into local life. Luka, the guide, often shares stories about how this island is a classic example of traditional Mediterranean living. Visitors can walk around the perimeter in about 30 minutes, soaking in the peaceful, slow-paced vibe.

Leslie_B describes this part of the trip as “amazing,” noting that Luka even brought them food from his garden, adding an extra layer of authenticity and friendliness. Many reviews highlight how guides often go above and beyond by sharing local produce or personal stories — a big plus for those wanting a genuine experience.

Stop 3: Preko Village on Ugljan — A Picture-Perfect Coastal Town

The final stop takes you to Preko, a charming village on Ugljan known for its lush greenery and olive groves. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll or a quick meal. Many travelers mention enjoying a local lunch at Srdela Snack in Kali, which Luka often recommends. The fact that Luka ordered a variety of fish to try — as one reviewer mentioned — exemplifies how the guides focus on local cuisine and authentic flavors.

The reviews suggest that this part of the trip offers both cultural insight and a chance to relax before heading back to Zadar. The beauty of Preko lies in its scenic streets and breathtaking views across the sea, perfect for photo enthusiasts.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included in the tour are all fees, taxes, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and a knowledgeable local skipper. Also, thoughtful touches like motion sickness tablets and sun protection are provided, making the experience comfortable for most travelers. The addition of drinks, including alcoholic beverages, adds a fun touch for those who want to toast the day.

Not included in the price is lunch, so if you’re a foodie or want a sit-down meal ashore, you’ll need to plan separately. Fortunately, Luka’s tour is flexible, and many reviews mention excellent local dining options in Kali or Preko.

Practical Details & Logistics

Meeting Point & Duration

You’ll meet your skipper at Zadar Boat Tours on Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6. The entire trip lasts about four hours, which strikes many as a perfect half-day escape. Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates — a big plus for privacy and flexibility.

Price & Value

At $550.31 per group, the price may seem on the higher side, but consider what you’re getting: a private, customizable trip with a local guide, snorkeling gear, drinks, and the chance to visit some of the most picturesque spots around Zadar. For small groups or families, this can represent great value, especially given the personalized attention and positive reviews.

Booking & Cancellation

The tour is usually booked around 77 days in advance, which indicates a popular choice among travelers. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before means you can plan with peace of mind, especially if weather conditions change.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that guides like Luka and Kristijan make a big difference. They’re praised for their friendliness, local knowledge, and willingness to customize the trip. Many reviewers highlight how the scenic views, secluded beaches, and delicious seafood made their day memorable.

One traveler expressed that Luka’s garden-fresh food and local fish made the experience “incredible,” while others appreciated the thoughtfulness shown when traveling with children or groups with special interests. Many reviews also mention the comfortable boat and the seamless, stress-free arrangement, which elevates the trip from just another boat ride to a genuine, local experience.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private speedboat tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authenticity. It’s an excellent choice for small groups seeking a tailored day on the water, especially if you enjoy swimming, scenic views, and local cuisine. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends wanting a luxury experience without the crowds.

The flexible itinerary and private setting mean you can focus on what excites you most — whether that’s soaking up the sun on a quiet beach, walking around charming villages, or tasting fresh seafood. For travelers who appreciate having a local guide who can share stories and tips, this trip delivers on that front.

While four hours might fly by quickly, the ability to customize your stops makes this tour feel more like a curated experience rather than a cookie-cutter cruise. If you’re looking for an intimate, scenic, and flexible introduction to the islands near Zadar, this private boat tour is worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape from the city.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, a local skipper, motion sickness tablets, sun protection, and drinks (including alcoholic beverages) are included.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so your skipper can tailor stops and activities based on your preferences.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, so plan to eat ashore if desired. Many reviews mention enjoyable local eateries after the trip.

What are the main stops?
They include Ugljan Island’s Kostanj beach, Oljak — the tiny inhabited island, and the village of Preko on Ugljan.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention traveling with young kids and finding the experience thoughtful and enjoyable.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and possibly waterproof camera or phone. The boat provides snorkeling gear.

Is the tour private?
Yes, only your group participates, offering privacy and flexibility.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book around 77 days in advance, especially in peak summer months, to secure their preferred date.

In summary, this private tour to Zadar’s nearby islands combines stunning scenery, personalized service, and the chance to experience Croatia’s maritime charm firsthand. Whether you want quiet beaches, local cuisine, or authentic island life, it offers a well-rounded, memorable escape that’s worth the price for the intimacy and quality.