Zadar is one of Croatia’s most attractive coastal cities—not just for its captivating old town and sea organ, but also for its vibrant boat tour scene. With crystal-clear waters, a stunning archipelago, and a variety of tour styles, Zadar offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re after a quick snorkeling jaunt or a full-day adventure exploring national parks and islands, you’ll find plenty of options. We especially like the Plitvice Lakes day trips, which combine natural beauty with a boat ride, and the Blue Lagoon snorkeling cruise, perfect for those wanting to explore beneath the surface. The variety of tours means you can balance relaxation with exploration, all with spectacular coastal scenery as your backdrop.
For those who want a taste of everything, Zadar’s multi-stop boat trips provide a good mix of swimming, island exploring, and local village visits. Plus, sunset cruises with a glass of bubbly are an ideal way to wind down after a day of sightseeing. Whatever your style—adventure, relaxation, or a little of both—there’s a boat tour here that will make your visit memorable.
1. From Zadar: Plitvice Lakes with Boat Ride & Zadar Old town tour
At number 1, this full-day trip combines a visit to Croatia’s most famous national park, the Plitvice Lakes, with a relaxing boat ride and a brief stroll through Zadar’s Old Town. For around $54, you get about 10 hours of exploration, making it excellent value for nature lovers. The day begins with a comfortable drive out of the city, passing through lush Croatian countryside while your guide shares interesting stories about the region.
Once at the park, you are free to explore the walking trails around the lakes and waterfalls, which are free of charge aside from the optional boat ride. The 4 hours allocated allow you enough time to see the highlights, like the famous waterfalls and turquoise lakes, without rushing. The return includes a stop in Zadar’s Old Town, where you can join a guided walking tour or explore on your own. This trip’s reviews highlight the expertise of guides like Felip and Bojan, who bring the area to life with engaging stories. The only downside is the long drive, but many agree it’s worth the effort to see this UNESCO site.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those interested in Croatia’s natural scenery combined with a quick cultural peek at Zadar. The price covers the park’s entrance, and the highlights make it a full-value experience.
2. Zadar: 3-Stop Blue Lagoon & Snorkeling Cruise with Drinks
Number 2 on our list is this half-day speedboat adventure taking you to three incredible locations including the famous Blue Lagoon. For just $31, it’s an affordable way to enjoy Croatia’s clear waters and scenic islands. The tour kicks off with a friendly meet-up, where you’ll be introduced to your local skipper—Agnieszka ensures everyone is in good hands.
You’ll visit three spots, stopping for snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters, giving you the chance to see what’s hiding beneath the surface. The boat itself is fast and stylish, providing a fun ride between islands. Along the way, you’ll also explore some small Dalmatian villages, which adds a cultural flavor to the trip. The relaxed pace, combined with the opportunity to enjoy drinks while soaking up the scenery, makes this a favorite for travelers seeking both adventure and leisure.
Bottom line: This tour offers a quick but rich taste of Croatia’s island life, perfect if you prefer shorter outings with plenty of swimming and photo ops.
3. Zadar: Plitvice Lakes with Boat Ride and Zadar Old Town Tour
Ranking slightly lower at number 3, this tour is similar to the first but with a slightly different itinerary. For $53, it includes a full day exploring the spectacular waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes and a post-visit walk through Zadar’s historic streets. The focus is on natural beauty, with walking trails around the lakes and a relaxing boat ride across the park’s biggest lake.
What sets this tour apart is the optional guided walking tour of Zadar’s Old Town, which you can join after returning. Guests praise the park’s “magical views” and the guide’s ability to avoid the crowds. The long drive might be a consideration, but the quality of the experience makes it worthwhile for nature enthusiasts. The tour is especially suited for those wanting an immersive day in Croatia’s national parks combined with a brief cultural touch.
Bottom line: If you’re keen on experiencing Croatia’s waterfalls and lakes and enjoy a flexible schedule, this is a solid choice.
4. Zadar: Island Hopping Tour & Blue Bay Cruise with Drinks
Number 4 is a speedboat trip that takes you to explore three different islands off Zadar’s coast. For $26, it provides a great balance of adventure and relaxation. Starting from Zadar, you’ll visit charming villages and secluded beaches, with plenty of chances to swim, snorkel, or just lounge in the sun. Your skipper will point out scenic spots and help you get the most from your time on board.
The tour’s highlight is the exploration of Ošljak, the smallest inhabited island, which has a fascinating history as a quarantine site and now a peaceful retreat. It’s ideal for those wanting to escape the crowds and get a taste of island life in a few hours. The small group size makes for a more intimate experience, and the inclusion of drinks keeps everyone in a good mood.
Bottom line: This is a fun, affordable mini-cruise perfect for travelers who want to see multiple islands without a full-day commitment.
5. Zadar: 3 Islands Luxury Boat Tour with Aperol Spritz
Positioned at number 5, this luxury tour takes you around the Zadar archipelago, with a focus on comfort and scenic beauty. For $34, you’ll enjoy a small group experience, with stops at Ošljak, Ugljan, and Skoljic. The tour emphasizes relaxation—swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on secluded beaches—while enjoying cold Aperol Spritz served on board.
This trip offers spectacular views of Zadar’s Old Town as the boat glides along, making it perfect for those who value both comfort and scenery. The peaceful Ošljak is a highlight, with its untouched beaches and little human presence, ideal for unwinding. Reviews mention the “ice-cold Aperol Spritz” as a memorable feature, and the guides do well to share local insights.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a luxurious, relaxed day with scenic views and a touch of indulgence.
6. Zadar: Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Drinks
At number 6, this motorboat tour is about enjoying Croatia’s coast with minimal fuss. For $29, it offers a guided experience with a local captain, who will take you to beautiful corners of the Zadar archipelago. The focus is on snorkeling and swimming in clear waters, with plenty of time to relax and take photos.
The tour is tailored for those who want a straightforward day on the water, with fresh drinks onboard to keep everyone happy. Tour guide Agnieszka’s friendly approach and the relaxed pace make it suitable for families and casual travelers alike. The stops are carefully selected for their beauty and quiet atmosphere.
Bottom line: This tour is a reliable, enjoyable way to explore the coast, especially if you want to focus on snorkeling and relaxing without complex itineraries.
7. Zadar: Sunset and Night Cruise with Unlimited Sparkling Wine
Number 7 offers a uniquely romantic experience—a sunset cruise around Zadar. For $35, you get to see the city’s landmarks like the Sea Organ and Lion Gate from the water, all while sipping unlimited sparkling wine. The tour’s relaxed pace allows you to absorb the changing colors of the sky and the city’s evening lights.
The highlight is watching the sunset over the historic old town and the illuminated city walls. As the boat glides along, you can learn about Zadar’s history or simply enjoy the peaceful moment. This is a great choice for couples or anyone looking for a memorable evening with beautiful views and no rushing.
Bottom line: Perfect for a romantic, scenic evening that combines sightseeing with the luxury of unlimited wine.
8. Zadar: Boat Tour with Unlimited Wine & 3 Stops
Number 8 features a historic wooden boat and stops in three different locations—Kukljica, Hidden Bay, and Kali—for swimming and exploring. For $41, it offers a full day of relaxation and adventure, with unlimited wine onboard and scenic views along the coast.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a more traditional experience, with the chance to visit fishing villages and beaches. The boat’s vintage charm adds a special touch, and reviews mention the “spectacular panoramic views” and “crystal waters.” It’s suited for travelers who want to combine cultural sights with refreshing dips and local flavor.
Bottom line: If you like the idea of a historic boat combined with open bars and island visits, this is a top pick.
9. Zadar: Plitvice Lakes Full-Day Guided Tour with a Boat Ride
Number 9 offers a comprehensive day trip to Plitvice Lakes with guided insights and a boat ride in the park. The $58 price includes walking the famous waterfalls and lakes, and the boat ride takes you across the park’s largest body of water, adding a relaxing touch to the experience.
This tour is perfect for nature lovers who want an in-depth visit, with a guide sharing detailed stories about the wildlife and geology of the area. The long day is well-organized and praised for its well-rounded itinerary. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a full immersion in Croatia’s most iconic natural site.
Bottom line: A great choice if you want a guided, all-in-one experience of Croatia’s waterfalls, lakes, and wildlife.
10. 3 Islands Luxury Boat Tour with Aperol Spritz
This upscale half-day tour is similar to the earlier luxury option but with a shorter, 4-hour itinerary. For $41.96, it takes you to Ošljak, Ugljan, and Skoljic—perfect if you want a quick but scenic escape. The small-group format, combined with snorkeling, swimming, and onboard Aperol Spritz, makes for an indulgent experience.
Guests often praise the spectacular views of Zadar’s Old Town and the tranquility of Ošljak’s beaches. The tour emphasizes comfort and scenic beauty, making it suitable for travelers who enjoy a more intimate, luxurious feel while exploring islands.
Bottom line: Ideal if you want a quick, luxurious boat trip with plenty of swimming, relaxing, and a few drinks.
11. Zadar: Kornati Boat Trip with Lunch and Swim Stops
Number 11 is a full-day Kornati National Park cruise, offering spectacular views of the islands and a chance to swim in the Salt lake and sea. For $58, it includes lunch with Croatian wine, making it a satisfying day for those interested in scenery and local flavors. The boat ride provides panoramic views and opportunities to relax and take photos.
The trip is especially popular with outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy boat travel combined with snorkeling. The inclusion of lunch and swim stops makes it great value for a full day on the water. Reviews mention how peaceful and scenic the Kornati islands are, perfect for a laid-back day.
Bottom line: Recommended for travelers wanting a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and local cuisine in Croatia’s stunning national parks.
12. Zadar: Boat tour Half day -5 hours
Finally, this half-day boat tour offers a private experience for up to six people at $294. It explores several islands, including Ošljak, Galevac, and Ugljan, with stops for swimming and sightseeing. This option caters to those who prefer a customized, intimate trip with the flexibility to tailor stops to your preferences.
Guests appreciate the personalized service, the opportunity to visit remote beaches, and the expert guidance from the crew. It’s ideal for small groups or families wanting a private adventure with all the comforts.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a private, flexible boat tour, willing to spend a bit more for exclusivity.
How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour in Zadar
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re after a full immersion in Croatian nature, the Plitvice Lakes day trip (see tour) offers both scenic waterfalls and a cultural walk in Zadar. For a quick island escape, the Blue Lagoon snorkeling cruise (see tour) is perfect.
Those seeking luxury and relaxation should consider the 3 Islands Luxury Boat Tour (see tour), while adventure lovers can’t go wrong with full-day Kornati trips (see tour). Budget travelers will find snorkeling and island-hopping tours in the $26–$31 range that deliver excellent value.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date and time.
Final Thoughts
Zadar’s boat tours offer a range of experiences from natural wonders and island hopping to sunset cruises and private charters. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of Plitvice Lakes, the allure of the Blue Lagoon, or the tranquility of the Kornati Archipelago, you’ll find options that match your style and budget. For families, small groups, or couples, there’s a perfect cruise waiting.
If you want a full day of exploring, the Plitvice Lakes tour or Kornati trip will satisfy. For shorter, relaxing outings, the Blue Lagoon or 3 islands trips deliver plenty of fun in just a few hours. No matter which you choose, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable Croatian adventures.