That first turn away from Zadar makes the day feel lighter. This small-group speedboat tour adds easy island time with snorkeling gear, a sandy beach stop at Kostanj, and a proper village wander in Preko. I like the pace because it balances swimming and sightseeing without turning the day into a schedule sprint; the speedboat ride keeps it fun and efficient too. One thing to consider: it is not suitable for non-swimmers or anyone with back/heart issues, since you’ll be moving on and off the boat and doing active swim stops.

You also get the human touch: a skipper who can point you to better angles for photos and calmer water moments. If you’re lucky, you might end up with Kristijan Kačan or Luka—both get praised for being friendly, professional, and genuinely helpful with what to do next. Expect a small group of up to 10, drinks included, and a loop back to the meeting point after four hours on the Adriatic.

Key things I’d watch for

• Small group (max 10) means easier attention from your skipper and less waiting between stops
• Kostanj beach for swimming + snorkeling gives you a full hour to actually enjoy the water
• Ošljak stop includes breaks for photos and a swim option on Croatia’s smallest inhabited island
• Preko village time (75 minutes) is long enough for a real walk, not just a quick look
• Beer and water included keeps the tour relaxed while you’re out on the sea
• Docking fee is extra (10€ adult / 5€ child), so budget for it on top of the tour price

A small-group speedboat that swaps Zadar traffic for open water

This tour is a smart way to do island life from Zadar without getting stuck in slow connections or losing time to transfers. You go out by speedboat with a local skipper, and the itinerary is built around a few focused stops rather than a long list of brief photo moments.

I especially like how the day is paced around water time. You’ll spend meaningful chunks at Kostanj (1 hour), Ošljak (45 minutes), and Preko (75 minutes), with short 15-minute speedboat rides between them. That structure helps you feel like you’re on an outing, not just rushing from pier to pier.

The group size matters here. With up to 10 people, you’re less likely to feel like a number, and your skipper can adjust to conditions—like where to stop for the cleanest swim window. The tour also includes snorkeling gear, so you’re not stuck renting equipment at the last minute.

Zadar Boat Tours meeting point: what to look for and how to start smoothly

The meeting point is simple: the skipper waits in a boat with the company logo at the waterfront. That matters because speedboat tours depend on timing, and you don’t want to be hunting around at the dock.

Once you’re aboard, expect a short ride right away. There’s a 15-minute speedboat segment at the start, then you’re headed to your first swim-and-snorkel zone. If you’re prone to getting motion-sick, consider taking it easy right when you board—then enjoy the ride once you settle in.

English is available with the driver/skipper, which helps if you want to ask practical questions on the spot. You’ll likely hear not just where to go, but also what to do there, including swimming and snorkeling guidance if you want it.

Kostanj sandy beach (1 hour): where the Adriatic does the heavy lifting

Your first major stop is Kostanj, pješćana Plaža u uvali—a sandy bay that’s built for relaxing. You get a full hour there, which is a great amount of time for people who want more than one quick dip. This is also the place where the included snorkeling gear is most useful, because you have enough time to switch between swimming, snorkeling, and simply floating.

What I like about this stop is the variety without complexity. If you want shade, you can manage your time; if you want sun, you can stay out longer. You’ll have the chance for scenic views on the way, too, since this is one of the “see the coast” portions of the trip.

A practical note: sand plus salt water means you’ll want a towel ready and rinse your hands and face when you can. If you plan to snorkel, you’ll get the best experience by going at a calm pace—breathe steadily and keep your movements slow.

Ošljak (45 minutes): Croatia’s smallest inhabited island stop

Next comes Ošljak, with a 45-minute break that mixes photos, sightseeing, and water time. The tour is known for treating Ošljak as a special, smaller island moment—linked in the tour description as the smallest inhabited island in Croatia—so this is not just another scenic stop. It feels more like you’re stepping into a pocket of island life.

Your time there is shorter than Preko, but it’s long enough for a focused swim/snorkel session and a decent photo window. You’ll also get another 15-minute speedboat ride right after, so think of Ošljak as the middle highlight: different from a sandy beach, more “island character,” and a change of pace from the village stop.

The snorkeling and swimming options are similar in spirit, but you should expect the experience to feel a bit more “island-channel” than “wide beach.” If you like quiet spots and compact shoreline views, Ošljak is likely your favorite.

Preko on Ugljan (75 minutes): village walks with real breathing room

Then you land on Ugljan’s Preko for 75 minutes. This is the stop where you can actually walk without feeling rushed, and it’s where the tour starts to feel more like local life than just a swim day.

Preko time includes a break plus sightseeing, a chance to walk, and swimming/snorkeling options. That mix is valuable because you can match the day to your mood: some people want to explore streets and viewpoints; others want to head back to the water. With 75 minutes, you can do both if you plan your timing.

I like that this stop is placed after Ošljak. It gives you island contrast: tiny inhabited island energy first, then a larger community feel. If you want to buy a snack or drink, you’re most likely to have the easiest window here—just keep in mind that food is not included on the tour.

The speedboat rides: short segments that keep the energy up

Between stops, you’ll have three 15-minute speedboat segments (plus the final return ride). It’s not a long time in transit, which is a good thing on a 4-hour tour where you want your enjoyment concentrated where it counts: beach time and island time.

The “fun ride” factor shows up in the overall experience too. You’ll be going fast enough to feel like you’re doing something different from a standard ferry hop, but the timing stays practical. It’s a good fit if you like motion and views and you don’t want to spend half your day staring at schedules.

One more consideration: speedboat trips require balance and quick transitions. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and isn’t recommended for certain mobility or health conditions, so be honest with yourself about how easily you can get on and off the boat.

Drinks included, but not heavy partying

The tour includes beer and water, plus fuel, and you’ll ride with the skipper. That’s a nice balance—enough to keep things relaxed after time in the sun, without turning it into a long drinking session that ruins the afternoon.

In real terms, drinks are one of the reasons the value feels good. You’re paying for a guided speedboat day plus equipment, and having refreshments handled is a small convenience that adds up when you’re counting every euro on holiday.

If you’re planning to snorkel, remember that you’ll want to stay steady and comfortable in the water. Beer is included, but the best snorkeling sessions usually happen when you’re paying attention to breathing and buoyancy, not rushing because you’re thirsty.

Price and value: $28 plus a docking fee you should plan for

At $28 per person, this tour can be a strong value—especially because snorkeling gear, the skipper, and drinks are included. You’re not just buying a seat; you’re buying a structured island itinerary with enough time at each stop to matter.

The catch is the docking fee: it’s listed as 10€ per adult and 5€ per child, and it’s not included in the tour price. So your real budget will be tour price plus docking fees at the time of the stop.

If you’re traveling as a couple or small group, it can still work out well compared with doing islands separately using transport plus paid equipment plus drinks. The main “value advantage” here is that the skipper does the routing and timing for you, and you keep your day compact around swim opportunities.

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

This tour is built for people who want a classic Adriatic day: speedboat ride, swim stops, and island views in a short window. The tour is also limited to a maximum of 10 participants, so it tends to suit folks who prefer a quieter, more hands-on experience.

You’ll probably love it if:

• you can swim and feel comfortable in open water for short periods
• you want both a beach stop and a village walk
• you like snorkeling and want gear included
• you’re okay with a tour that focuses on water time rather than museums or long land excursions

You should skip it if:

• you’re a non-swimmer
• you have back problems or heart problems
• you’re pregnant
• you use a wheelchair
• you’re traveling with children under 2
• you want to bring pets (pets are not allowed)

If you’re unsure, the itinerary can help you decide. This is not a “sit on a ferry and stroll” day. It’s a boat day with active swim opportunities at multiple stops.

What to bring: the practical packing list that saves the day

The essentials are pretty standard, but bringing them matters because you’ll be in and out of water and sun for hours. Here’s what you should plan to have on hand:

• sunglasses and a sun hat
• swimwear and a towel
• sunscreen (Adriatic sun is no joke)

If you’re snorkeling, the included gear helps a lot, but your comfort still depends on how you pack for getting wet. A small dry bag for your phone and passport is a good idea if you have one.

Skippers and onboard vibes: getting advice that actually helps

The quality of the day often comes down to the skipper, and this tour has a clear pattern of strong service. Guides like Kristijan Kačan and Luka get praised for being friendly, professional, and helpful with tips. One review even notes that the guide offered a local spirit at the end, which tells you the experience isn’t robotic—it feels personal.

In practical terms, a good skipper helps you:

• find the best angles for swimming and snorkeling
• understand the day’s timing so you don’t feel rushed
• get quick answers about what to see and where to spend your time

If you like tours where the guide talks like a local and not a lecturer, this is a solid match.

Small-group timing: how the 4 hours usually feels

The itinerary is 4 hours total, including transit between stops. It’s structured like this: quick speedboat ride out, then one hour at Kostanj, then Ošljak for 45 minutes, then Preko for 75 minutes, then the return.

For many people, the day feels like three “chapters”:

1) sandy beach water time

2) compact island photos and another swim option

3) village walking plus a final round of water time

The short speedboat segments keep energy up and help you see more coast than you’d get on a slower option.

Should you book this Zadar: Ugljan and Preko Islands speedboat tour?

Book it if you want a high-value island day with snorkeling gear, included drinks, and a real mix of beach + village. The small group size is a major plus, and the time you get at each stop is long enough to matter.

Pass or look for another option if you don’t swim, you have health constraints listed by the tour, or you prefer long, slow sightseeing with minimal water activity. Also keep the docking fee in your budget so there are no surprise math moments at the pier.

If your ideal Croatia day includes sun, clear water, and a quick taste of island life beyond Zadar’s main streets, this one is easy to recommend.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The tour duration is 4 hours. Starting times vary, so you’ll want to check availability for the schedule.

What does the tour cost?

The price is listed as $28 per person.

What stops are included?

You’ll visit Kostanj sandy beach, Ošljak (a small inhabited island area), and Preko on Ugljan Island, before returning to the meeting point in Zadar.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes. Snorkeling gear is included, along with opportunities to swim and view marine life at the stops.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Beer and water are included.

Is there an extra docking fee?

Yes. A docking fee is not included and is listed as 10€ per adult and 5€ per child.

What’s the group size?

It’s a small group limited to a maximum of 10 participants.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers or wheelchair users?

No. It is not suitable for non-swimmers, wheelchair users, and it’s also not suitable for people with back problems or heart problems.

Is cancellation free?

There is free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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