That first splash of clear water feels like a reset. This speedboat outing strings together short snorkeling breaks at postcard bays near Zadar, plus a calm island interlude and a final stop on Ugljan. I like the compact plan—three stops in about four hours—and I especially like that snorkel gear and cold drinks are part of the deal. One thing to plan around: there’s no restroom onboard, so you’ll want to handle that before you board.

A smooth day depends on the crew and the water, and this one is run in a friendly, attentive way. One guide you may run into is Bart, praised as a great counselor who keeps an eye on everyone in the group. The main caution is simple: the pickup area can feel busy since lots of boat tours cluster around the same dock point, so give yourself a little extra time to find the right boat.

Key things to know before you go

• Three planned snorkeling windows with enough time to actually enjoy the water, not just rush in and out
• Shallow, clear water at Pjescana Uvala makes it easier to snorkel without fighting waves or visibility
• Ošljak island’s hill-to-windmill option gives you a land break if you want a change from snorkeling
• Preko on Ugljan is a real village stop where you can grab lunch or a sea-view coffee
• Small group size (max 12) helps keep the vibe relaxed and makes it easier to get questions answered

Zadar by speedboat: short, scenic, and built for swimming

This is a “do a lot without dragging it out” kind of tour. You’re in Zadar’s orbit, but the plan quickly moves you away from the most crowded feel of the city. The speedboat is the point: you’ll cover water distance efficiently and spend your time where it matters—at swim-friendly spots.

What I like most is the rhythm. Each stop lands around an hour-ish, so you get a real break to snorkel or walk, and you still have energy for the next place. The group stays small (up to 12), which usually means less waiting around and more attention from the guide.

The other win is the value shape. At about $36 per person you’re paying for transport by petrol, snorkeling equipment, and cold drinks. Food isn’t included, but the itinerary is designed so you can eat on land during the final stop.

Price and logistics at a glance (and what to budget for)

Let’s talk money in a practical way. Your base price covers the boating portion and the gear, so you’re not stuck paying extra to rent masks. You’ll still want to budget separately for lunch (or snacks) at the last stop, plus anything you want to buy onshore.

There’s also a small “bring your own” reality check:

• Towels aren’t provided
• There’s no restroom onboard

So plan like a day at the beach plus a boat ride. If you hate wet travel in your bag later, pack accordingly.

One logistics detail that matters more than it sounds: the pickup point is shared by multiple boat tours. That can create confusion when you’re trying to find the correct vessel. My advice is to arrive a touch early and look for the organizer’s cues right away so you’re not guessing at the last minute.

Where you meet the boat (Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6)

The meeting point is Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, 23000, Zadar, Croatia, and the tour ends back there. It’s also described as near public transportation, so you can likely make this work without needing to drive and park.

Still, docks have their own rules: multiple boats can mean multiple lines, multiple voices, and lots of people in swimwear. If you’re booking close to departure time, double-check your confirmation and keep your mobile ticket ready. The tour runs in English, which helps for meeting instructions and safety guidance.

A good move: treat the first few minutes like a mini scavenger hunt. Check signs, confirm the operator, and only climb aboard once you’re sure you’re on the right speedboat.

Stop 1: Pjescana Uvala blue lagoon snorkeling in clear shallow water

Your first swim break is at Pjescana Uvala, a blue lagoon bay not far from Zadar. This stop is set up for snorkeling comfort: the water is described as low and crystal clear, which usually means you can get into the water without wrestling your way over rough conditions.

Expect a short, sweet window—about 1 hour—with welcome cold drinks offered there. That’s a small detail, but it matters. After a boat ride, having something refreshing right at the first stop sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Snorkeling-wise, this is the best place to start because clear visibility makes it easier to enjoy what you came for. If you’re new to snorkeling, this is also where you’ll likely feel most confident since the conditions are described as beginner-friendly.

Possible drawback to consider: since the bay is close and the plan is compact, you’ll want to treat your time there as the priority. If you spend too long talking on deck before gearing up, you may feel rushed when you finally get into the water.

Stop 2: Ošljak island hill walk, windmill views, and quiet swims

Next up is Ošljak, described as a small island and a quiet spot between the Blue lagoon area and the island of Ugljan. This stop is perfect for a change of pace. You can stay in swim mode with the masks, or you can stretch your legs with a walk up the hill.

The hill option includes a target most people can actually picture: a windmill. Even if you don’t make it all the way up, just knowing there’s a climb available gives you flexibility. Some people prefer to snorkel more; others want a land break with different scenery.

You’ll have about 1 hour here. That’s long enough to do one main thing well—snorkel or walk—without turning it into a marathon hike.

One practical note: island stops can feel windy and bright, depending on the day. If you tend to get cold in the shade, bring a light layer for between swims. The itinerary doesn’t mention extra gear, so it’s on you to stay comfortable.

Stop 3: Preko on Ugljan for lunch, coffee with sea views, and a beach stroll

The final stop is Preko on Ugljan Island. Preko is described as lively in summer and quieter off season. Either way, it’s a village stop, not an engineered tourist zone—so you’re more likely to get a normal sense of local life.

You’ll get about 1 hour 15 minutes, and the plan gives you the two most useful choices:

• eat lunch at a local restaurant
• grab coffee with a sea view

There’s also a “walk it off” option: a small sandy beach is within walking distance to the right. That’s great if you want a gentle end to the day after snorkeling.

This is the stop where timing matters. If you want a proper meal, use your full window and don’t treat it like a quick snack run. The schedule is tight enough that if you’re indecisive, you can end up with less time for both lunch and a beach stroll.

What’s included, what isn’t, and how to pack smart

This tour includes:

• Cold drinks
• Snorkeling equipment
• Petrol (for the speedboat ride)

It does not include:

• all fees and taxes
• dinner or other food
• a restroom on board
• towels

That last point is the one people usually underestimate. If you show up without a towel, you’ll either leave the boat wet and uncomfortable or be forced to buy something later (which might not be quick). Bring a towel you’re okay with getting sandy. Also consider swim shoes if you prefer more secure footing on shore.

Because there’s no restroom onboard, you’ll want to use facilities on land before you board when possible, and plan your water and snacks timing so you don’t feel stuck later in the ride.

If you like using your own mask or snorkel, the tour includes equipment, but your comfort matters. Since it’s not stated that you can swap sizes easily, I’d stick with what they provide unless you know your gear fits perfectly.

The snorkeling experience: what the itinerary is really optimizing

This isn’t just “three stops and good luck.” The plan is optimized around conditions and variety.

• Pjescana Uvala gives you clear, calm-ish snorkeling with shallow water. That’s the best spot to build confidence and see more underwater.
• Ošljak adds a second style of scenery: island quiet plus a hill option. You can snorkel, but you also get the chance to step away from the water.
• Preko shifts from sea time to land time so you’re not trapped in swim mode until the final minute.

So even if the water is colder than you hoped or the wind changes the feel of the day, you still have options. You’re not depending on perfect snorkeling conditions at every stop.

One thing to accept: if wind picks up, the boat ride can slow down. That can reduce how much time you end up with at the last parts of the itinerary. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it does mean you should keep expectations flexible.

Guide quality and small-group feel (including Bart)

Group size matters. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the guide can actually check in with people, answer questions, and keep things moving without turning into a loud stampede.

The guide you might get is praised specifically as Bart, described as friendly and attentive. That lines up with what you want for snorkeling: clarity at the start, quick answers in the middle, and a steady hand when people are getting on and off the boat.

If you’re the type who likes to ask practical questions (how long to stay in, where to look, what to avoid), a smaller group is where you’ll feel it. You don’t just blend into the crowd.

Who this tour is best for (and who should skip it)

This is a strong match if you want:

• a short escape from Zadar’s hustle
• snorkeling that feels easy to manage within a half-day timeframe
• a couple of different settings—lagoon, island, and village—without packing your whole day

It also works well for couples and groups, because the vibe stays relaxed and the plan gives you breaks rather than nonstop touring.

You might consider a different option if:

• you hate rides that depend on weather and wind
• you need restroom access onboard
• you’re expecting food included (lunch is on you in Preko)

If you’re traveling with kids, this can work for “most travelers can participate,” but you still need to manage safety and comfort around snorkeling time and boat boarding. With the small group size, it’s easier to keep an eye on everyone—but it’s still a boat day.

Should you book the Explore Islands and Blue Bay Snorkeling Adventure?

I’d book it if you want a practical, half-day plan that actually prioritizes the sea. The combination of shallow-clear snorkeling at Pjescana Uvala, an island break with a hill-and-windmill option at Ošljak, and a final land stop in Preko makes this feel balanced instead of repetitive.

It’s also good value for what’s included. For about $36, you’re getting boat transport, snorkel gear, and cold drinks. The only real “gotcha” is what’s not included: towels and onboard restroom access, plus food. That’s easy to plan around. Bring a towel, be ready to use facilities before boarding, and budget for lunch in Preko.

One more reason to lean yes: if you enjoy a smaller group and a guide who pays attention (and you end up with Bart), the day is likely to feel smooth. Just arrive early enough to sort out the pickup point crowds.

If your priority is all-day snorkeling with long stops, this may feel short. But if your priority is a well-paced mix of sea time and a real village ending, it’s a smart pick.

FAQ

How long is the Explore Islands and Blue Bay Snorkeling Adventure?

It runs for about 4 hours, with stops lasting roughly 1 hour at the first two locations and about 1 hour 15 minutes at the last stop.

What is included in the tour price?

The tour includes cold drinks, use of snorkeling equipment, and petrol for the speedboat ride.

Do I need to bring a towel or snorkeling gear?

Snorkeling equipment is included, but towels are not provided. You should bring your own towel.

Is there a restroom on board the speedboat?

No. There is no restroom available onboard.

What language is the tour offered in, and how many people are in the group?

The tour is offered in English and has a maximum group size of 12 travelers.

What should I do if weather is bad or I need to cancel?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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