If you want the Adriatic to feel fast, go speedboat. This Zadar outing throws you into clear-water coves and island stops with snorkeling gear, drinks, and enough time on land to feel like you’re not just sitting on a boat. I like that it runs as a true half-day adventure with a small group (up to 10), and that the captains really keep things fun and flexible, from Lovre’s laid-back hosting to Mateo’s professional vibe.

I also like the way the itinerary mixes swim time with simple exploration: Pjescana Uvala for sandy, fishy water; Ošljak for a slow island stroll; and Preko for a summer-town break (then quiet if you’re there off season). One thing to consider: the final cost can be higher than the headline price because you should plan on €10 per person for fees, and you might not want to rely on the snorkeling if you’re expecting a reef show at every single stop.

Key highlights before you go

• Three stops with real swim time across coves and islands, not just quick dips
• Snorkeling equipment included plus cold drinks and bottled water onboard
• Small-group feel with a maximum of 10 travelers
• Captains who adjust to wind and conditions, which matters a lot on this coastline
• Easy island walking at Ošljak and Preko when you want a break from the water

Why This Zadar Speedboat Tour Feels Like a Real Adventure

This is the kind of tour that fits the Zadar reality: you have a limited time window, weather can change fast, and the coast is way better when you’re moving. A speedboat means you spend less time doing “transport” and more time actually in the water and on the islands.

What makes it work is the balance. You get snorkeling-focused stops, but you’re not stuck only swimming. On calmer moments, you can walk a shoreline, find a church or ruins, and reset your brain with a café view.

The vibe also depends on the captain. Some hosts like Lovre and Joseph keep things friendly and light, while others focus more on the boat handling and logistics. Either way, the best trips I’d aim for are the ones where the skipper is active about timing and safety.

Meeting Point, Group Size, and What the 4 Hours Actually Look Like

You meet at Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, 23000, Zadar. The activity ends back at the same spot, so you’re not hunting for a new pickup point later.

Expect about 4 hours total. The stops are roughly:

• Pjescana Uvala: about 40 minutes
• Ošljak: about 1 hour
• Preko: about 1 hour 30 minutes

That stop timing is important. It’s enough to swim, snorkel, and still have time to sit in the sun or take a short walk. It’s not enough to do a long hike, and it’s not meant to turn into a full-day trip.

One more practical note: there’s no restroom on board. That means you should plan to use facilities before you board, and keep your expectations simple. If you’re carrying a dry bag, you’ll feel more relaxed.

Price Breakdown: The Headline Fare vs. the Real Total

The tour price is listed at $38.71 per person. That’s a solid number for a speedboat half-day in the Zadar area, especially because snorkeling gear, bottled water, and cold drinks are included.

But here’s the catch you should budget for: €10 per person for all fees and taxes. Some guests also reported docking fees paid in cash, so I’d treat the €10 as part of your real planning, not a “maybe.”

If you’re coming from a cruise terminal, factor in how you’ll get to the meeting point. One customer said they had to take a taxi from the cruise terminal (each way). You might be fine with local transport, but don’t assume Zadar’s meeting point is automatically “right outside” your ship.

Bottom line on value: if you show up ready for a wet, fast, swim-heavy afternoon, this can feel like a bargain. If you hate surprise extra costs or hate uncertainty about where to be at check-in, you may feel the friction.

Stop 1: Pjescana Uvala (Kostanj) for Sandy Water and Snorkeling

This is the kind of first stop that sets the mood. Pjescana Uvala, sometimes called Kostanj, is about a 15-minute drive from Zadar by speedboat route. It’s a sheltered Croatian bay with crystal-clear water where you can see the sandy bottom and small fish.

This is the stop for a straightforward snorkeling experience. If you’ve never snorkeled in open water, starting here makes sense because the environment is gentle and readable. You can swim, put your head under, and get the idea fast without feeling like you’re guessing.

What to do with your time:

• Start with a calm swim first, then snorkel once you’re comfortable
• Keep an eye on where the boat is anchored so you can get back easily
• If the day is windy, stay near the calmer edges of the cove

One consideration: depending on water conditions, marine life visibility can vary. You might see fish and movement easily, or it might feel more like “clean water and sand” than a busy reef. Either way, it’s a gorgeous swim.

Stop 2: Ošljak Island Walks, Quiet Vibes, and Historical Clues

Ošljak is a smaller island inside the Zadar archipelago, with only a few families living there. What you gain here is pace. You’re not just waiting for the next swim. You’re getting a break from speed and salt-air energy.

You’ll have about 1 hour here to explore at an easy walking pace along the shore. There are a couple of sights worth looking for, including:

• A small church dating to the IX century
• Ruins tied to a hospital from the Second World War

It’s not a “big attractions” island. It’s more about feeling the place: sea air, simple shoreline steps, and that slow-island rhythm.

If you’re lucky with conditions, you may also spot dolphins here. A few guests specifically called out dolphins at the second stop, which is one of those moments you can’t plan for, but you’ll feel lucky when it happens.

A quick practical tip: pack your snorkeling mask only if you’re the type who wants to use every chance. Otherwise, treat this stop as the “stretch your legs” portion of the trip.

Stop 3: Preko on Ugljan Island for Beaches, Cafés, and a View Break

Preko is on Ugljan Island and changes mood depending on the season. In summer it’s lively. In off season, it’s quieter, more like a local village day than a resort stop.

You’ll get about 1 hour 30 minutes here, which is enough for a real reset. The stop includes a small sandy beach on the right-hand side—bring your snorkeling mask if you want to use it right away.

There’s also a nice option that doesn’t involve getting wet again: grab coffee at a café with a view. This is the time when you’ll see the coastline from angles you can’t get from the boat.

And if you’re tempted by an extra swim, there’s a clue worth knowing: from Preko, you can swim toward another island called Galevac to look for a small monastery between trees. I’d treat this as optional and condition-dependent. Wind and current can change the whole math.

This stop tends to be a good compromise: you get both scenery and a chance to feel human again between swims.

Snorkeling Reality Check: Gear, Life Vests, and When Caves Enter the Picture

The snorkeling kit is included—snorkel equipment and use of gear are part of the package. Guests also reported the snorkel mask can be good quality, but a practical move is to bring your own goggles if you prefer a perfect fit.

Also, be ready for the idea that snorkeling doesn’t always mean “wow marine life everywhere.” Some days, the sand-and-water clarity is the main story. Other days, you might see fewer fish than you hoped. Either way, clear water makes it easier to enjoy the experience even if it’s not a coral parade.

About safety: several guests mentioned cave-like swim areas (including a blue cave and a tougher green cave situation). The key advice from those stories is simple:

• Don’t take tight passages casually
• Use the life vest if provided
• If there are small squeeze-through areas, don’t go solo

If your skipper points you toward a cave area, follow the instructions closely and treat it as a guided swim, not a free adventure. This is one time where “bravery” should look like listening.

Onboard Life: Drinks Included, No Restroom, and the Get-Soaked Factor

On the boat, you’ve got bottled water, cold drinks, and use of snorkeling equipment. That’s the practical win for half-day trips: you don’t need to stop for snacks and hydration every hour.

Comfort-wise, expect a speedboat to act like a speedboat. One theme in the experiences is that you can get soaked, especially with wind or a full boat. If your bag can’t handle spray, you’ll want a dry bag or a waterproof pouch.

There’s also no onboard restroom, and no personal items like towels are included. That means you should bring:

• A towel you don’t mind getting wet
• Basic sea footwear if you’re sensitive about stepping on rough bits
• A change of clothes for afterward

One guest also warned about urchins and recommended sea footwear because they can be present under and near swimming areas. Even if the main swimming spots are manageable, sea shoes are cheap peace of mind.

Who This Tour Suits Best (and Who Should Skip It)

This tour is a strong fit if you want:

• Active sightseeing (water + short walks) rather than a slow bus day
• A small-group feel on a speedboat
• Snorkeling as part of a bigger day, not the only focus

It’s also a good pick if you like captains who interact. Guests named captains like Lovre, Mateo, Tony, Mario, and Josef/Josep as highlights. If you enjoy a guide who keeps things friendly and adjusts to conditions, this is the right format.

You might want to choose something else if:

• You hate wet weather or you don’t handle spray well
• You’re expecting a “reef full of life” snorkeling trip at every stop
• You get stressed by check-in logistics and unclear meeting instructions

Finally, consider your priorities. If you want long beach time or a calm day with lots of sitting, this speedboat route may feel too energetic.

Should You Book This Speedboat Snorkeling Tour?

My take: book it if you’re after a fun half-day where the Adriatic is the main event and you want to move between three different moods of the coast. The combination of clear-water swimming, simple island walks, and included drinks is a good match for a Zadar visit—especially if you’re short on time.

Book with eyes open on the downsides. Plan for the €10 per person fees, be ready for a possible get-soaked ride, and understand that snorkeling results can vary by stop and conditions. If you’re the type who remembers that this is an adventure and not a museum tour, you’ll likely love it.

If you want a smooth day, do two things: show up on time at the meeting point, and bring what you need for a wet afternoon (sea shoes and a change of clothes). Then let the skipper handle the route when wind kicks up.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?

The tour is about 4 hours (approx.).

Where is the meeting point in Zadar?

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

How much does it cost per person?

The price is $38.71 per person.

What stops are included?

There are three stops: Pjescana Uvala, Ošljak, and Preko.

What snorkeling gear is included?

Use of snorkeling equipment is included.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are bottled water, cold drinks, and the use of snorkeling equipment.

What is not included?

All fees and taxes are listed as €10.00 per person. Dinner isn’t included. There is also no restroom available on board, and personal items like towels are not included.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

Is there a restroom on the speedboat?

No. There is no restroom available on board.

Does the tour run in all weather?

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

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