Three islands. One great water day.

This Zadar speedboat tour takes you to Ošljak, Otok Galevac, and Preko for island walks, sea views, and a planned snorkeling stop. It’s a small-group trip (up to 12) with guided time for questions, then stretches of freedom to enjoy the coast at your own pace.

I especially like the combo of a short hike with payoff views on Ošljak and the calm, anchored swim/snorkel time at Otok Galevac. I also love that the tour keeps you moving without turning it into a nonstop dash.

One thing to plan for: Ošljak is often less of a sandy-beach stop and more of a rocky-shore stop, so bring footwear you trust near the water (and expect a bit of uneven entry).

Key things that make this Zadar speedboat tour work

• Small group (max 12): you get real guide attention, not just a wave-and-go explanation
• Ošljak viewpoint: a short, not-too-hard walk for big panorama over the Zadar region
• Snorkel-ready anchor at Otok Galevac: you’re stopped long enough to actually swim and look around
• Saint Paul the Hermit monastery museum: a calm historical break between water time
• Free time at Preko: time for local food, bars by the sea, or just beach wandering

The real value: half-day pacing without feeling rushed

This tour is priced at $36.30 per person for roughly four hours on the water. For Zadar, that’s a fair deal when you factor in the speedboat ride, guided stops, snorkeling gear, and the fact you’re not stuck in a large crowd.

What you’re paying for is balance. You get enough movement to feel like you truly left the mainland behind, but enough time at each stop to make it worth your swim suit. On top of that, many guides are known for sharing stories and pointing out practical options—so your day feels smoother.

One quick “numbers reality check”: docking fees are not included. Plan on €10 per person for those.

Where you meet and what to bring for comfort

You meet at Zadar Boat Tours on Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6 in Zadar. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, so you’re not playing transportation chess afterward.

Based on the experience style and what people mention doing, I’d show up with a simple kit:

• towel and swimwear
• hat and water (bottled water is on board)
• sunscreen
• walking shoes or sandals with good grip (especially for Ošljak’s rocky shore)
• a small bag you don’t mind getting damp

If you’re coming from Zadar Old Town, you’ll be fine using local public transit or a short taxi ride—this meeting area is described as being near public transportation.

And yes, bring snacks or lunch money. One stop includes time that can be used for food, and that flexibility matters when you’re out on islands for only half a day.

The speedboat ride: part scenic transfer, part fun factor

The boat sets the tone fast. Speedboat travel keeps the day from dragging and gives you sea views right away instead of spending the first hour still getting there.

Most people describe the ride as enjoyable and well-run, with staff handling boarding and leaving the boat efficiently. One person even called out extra help when getting in and out was tricky—so if that’s a concern for you, it helps to be upfront early.

The tour also includes WiFi on board. That won’t change your life, but it’s useful for quick messages or for sharing a photo before you lose reception.

Group size is capped at 12 travelers, which makes a difference on a boat. You hear more of the guide’s explanations, and it’s easier to ask follow-up questions.

Stop 1: Ošljak, the tiny inhabited island with real views

Ošljak is the star “walk and look” moment. This is described as the smallest inhabited island in the Adriatic, with about 35 inhabitants, and you’ll see how the place still runs on traditional island life—like olive growing and fishing.

The schedule gives you about 1 hour 20 minutes here, and the key activity is the climb to the top. The walk is only around 15 minutes and described as not difficult for most people, including families. But the footing can be uneven, so wear shoes you trust.

The payoff is the view. People talk about seeing the whole Zadar region and the canal spread out below you.

One consideration: some stops around Ošljak can feel less like a beach and more like rocky areas near the water. One account specifically noted there were no easy beach-style access points at the location they expected. So if you’re hoping for a sandy lounge moment, temper that expectation—and plan to use the sea-entry spots that exist.

Also, don’t count on shops or restaurants here. This is an “explore and soak up the island feel” stop, not a place to casually shop for snacks.

Stop 2: Otok Galevac and the Saint Paul the Hermit museum

This is your underwater-and-history blend.

First, the sea time: the tour anchors at Otok Galevac for about 45 minutes, and that’s when you’ll use snorkeling equipment. The water is described as clear, and it’s known for a strong underwater world, so you’ll get a real chance to look around instead of a quick “jump in for ten seconds” situation.

Then comes the land side. You also get time for a walk in the forest and visits to historical sights. The highlight here is the monastery museum dedicated to Saint Paul the Hermit. This isn’t a rushed photo stop. It’s more of a quiet pause, which makes a big difference in a half-day tour.

If you like “texture” in your travel day—pine shade, old stone, and then switching back to sun on open water—this stop delivers that.

One more detail that makes Otok Galevac interesting: it’s also described as connected to a smaller islet called Školjić, with a mix of greenery and cultural heritage. Even if you don’t memorize the geography, the experience tends to feel like a protected pocket of calm.

Stop 3: Preko for beaches, bars, and lunch timing

Preko is where the day turns more relaxed and local.

You get about 1 hour here. That might sound short, but it’s plenty for choosing between a swim, a slow walk, or grabbing food at the places you’ll find right by the sea. Preko is described as having beautiful beaches and a good selection of local food and bars.

This is also a smart stop strategically. After Ošljak’s short hike and Otok Galevac’s snorkel and museum time, Preko gives your legs a break.

One practical note: plan your lunch timing based on how fast you want to move after snorkeling. If you’re keen on food, arrive hungry and keep an eye on the clock so you don’t end up dashing at the end.

Snorkeling gear and what you should expect

Snorkeling gear is included. That’s a real value add because it saves time and hassle, especially if you’re traveling light.

What you can expect is a planned sea stop at Otok Galevac with enough time (about 45 minutes) to get comfortable, put gear on, and actually swim and look around.

If you’re new to snorkeling, this is the kind of setup that helps. The tour isn’t just tossing you in and moving on. You’ve got time built into the schedule, and guides can help with the basics when needed.

If you’re an experienced swimmer, you’ll still like the clear water and the chance to explore during that anchor period—without feeling trapped on a schedule that’s too tight.

Drinks: what’s actually included on the boat

Here’s the honest part that matters: alcohol inclusion seems limited.

Multiple accounts mention that the drinks provided on board were bottled water plus a small shot of local rakia. Some people expected a broader alcohol setup, and a few said it didn’t match the wording they were anticipating. If you want beer, wine, or other drinks, you may need to bring them or plan to buy them at Preko during your free time.

I like to treat this as a budgeting tip. Don’t plan your day around a full bar on the boat. Plan around water, snorkeling, and island time.

The guides and the small-group advantage (why it feels personal)

This tour shines when your guide is on form, and the feedback here is consistently positive.

You’ll see names like David, Joseph, Luca/Lucca, and Roko/Lovre mentioned in connection with friendly guidance and great energy. Even when people had small complaints, the guide service still usually scored well.

What I think you’re really paying for is the time with your guide—lots of time to ask questions and get help. On island tours like this, that matters. You’re on water, you’re dealing with short walks and sea-entry spots, and you don’t want to guess.

Also, the group is small. With fewer people, it’s easier for staff to help you board, find the right moment for a photo, or point out where you can swim safely.

Who this Zadar speedboat tour is best for

I’d point you to this tour if you want:

• an island day that mixes walking + sea time
• a guided experience without long museum marathons
• snorkeling with included gear
• a small group capped at 12

It’s also a solid pick if you’re doing a cruise stop or you only have half a day and want to feel like you did more than just Zadar’s waterfront.

Families can fit in too. The main hike at Ošljak is described as short and not difficult, but still plan for rocky shoreline realities.

If you hate uneven footing, struggle with short hikes, or need a fully sand-and-lounge day, Ošljak may not match your ideal. That’s not the tour’s fault—it’s the island’s nature. Adjust your expectations and wear the right shoes.

Practical timing tips to make your day smoother

Tours like this live and die by timing. Since the whole day is about four hours, you’ll get the best experience if you:

• arrive early (people recommend showing up about 9:30 for a 10:00 start)
• pack your swim kit where you can access it quickly
• keep your Ošljak footwear ready for fast shore movement
• treat Preko as your flexible meal window

Also, note this is a popular tour. It’s often booked about 22 days in advance on average. If you’re traveling in peak season, don’t wait until the last minute.

Should you book the Zadar island luxury speedboat tour with snorkeling?

If your dream day is speedboat views, a real snorkel stop, and the chance to explore small islands without spending all day in transit, I think this is a good choice.

Book it if:

• you want three islands in a half-day
• you’re happy with short walks and rocky-coast sea access
• snorkeling is a priority and you don’t want to rent gear

Skip or think twice if:

• you’re expecting a fully beachy first stop with easy sandy entry
• you specifically want unlimited drinks on board (multiple accounts describe limited offerings)
• you dislike boats or rougher water conditions. Most rides are reported as smooth, but sea conditions can vary.

My bottom line: this tour feels like a smart use of a limited time window in Zadar. You leave with photos, swim time, and at least one moment—Ošljak and Otok Galevac—that feels genuinely off the usual city track.

FAQ

How long is the Zadar island speedboat tour?

It runs for about 4 hours (approximately).

How much does it cost?

The price is listed as $36.30 per person.

What’s included in the tour price?

Snorkeling equipment is included, and there is WiFi on board.

What about docking fees?

Docking fees are not included and are listed as 10€ per person in total.

Where do I meet the tour?

The meeting point is Zadar Boat Tours, Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, 23000, Zadar, Croatia. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

Is snorkeling time built into the schedule?

Yes. The tour anchors at Otok Galevac for 45 minutes, and snorkeling equipment is used there.

What if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance of the experience’s start time. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, you won’t receive a refund.