Speedboat hopping in Zadar starts with a splash. This 4-hour ride is built for snorkeling and island time, with a compact group and a skipper who keeps the pace fun. You’ll bounce between Ošljak, Preko, and a surprise third stop, then cool off again whenever the water is inviting.

I love two things most. First, the trip gives you real break time at each island, so you can swim, walk, and shop instead of just being “taken from photo spot to photo spot.” Second, the onboard setup is practical: unlimited water plus local alcoholic drinks, snorkeling gear, sun cream, and even a GoPro11 underwater camera included.

One consideration: there’s an extra cost for docking fees. It’s 10 EUR for adults and 5 EUR for children total for all stops, so factor that into your budget.

Key Things To Know Before You Go

• Max 12 participants keeps it friendly and easy to hear instructions on the boat
• Ošljak (80 minutes) combines swimming, snorkeling, and a walk with view chances
• A surprise third island stop (45 minutes) includes swimming, snorkeling, and marine life viewing
• Preko (1 hour) gives coffee time and enough free time to browse and walk
• GoPro11 underwater camera included means you get the underwater moments covered
• Meeting point by Foša restaurant: look for a guide in a red hat at Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6

Why This Zadar Speedboat Tour Feels Like a Proper Half-Day

Zadar works well for sea time. You’re close to islands, and the speedboat approach means you spend more hours in the water and less time stuck in transit. The format is simple: hop on, cruise, stop, swim, repeat—then glide back to town.

What makes it especially satisfying is the pacing. You get multiple islands in one outing, but the boat isn’t just shuttling you past shore. Each stop is timed for more than “a quick look,” so you can choose your own mix of lounging, snorkeling, and a bit of exploring on foot.

The trip also has that good “energy curve.” The ride on open water feels exciting, but it’s not a marathon. It’s long enough to feel like an adventure, short enough to keep your afternoon from turning into a chore.

Meeting Point, Group Size, and What You Actually Get

The meeting point is Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, opposite Foša restaurant. Show up and look for a guide wearing a red hat, since the group is small (up to 12 people).

This matters more than it sounds. With a smaller group, instructions are easier to follow, and it’s simpler to get the snorkeling gear sorted without a crowd. You also tend to get more attention if you need help figuring out how the stops work.

What’s included is refreshingly tangible:

• Speedboat tour with guide and skipper
• Snorkeling equipment
• Underwater camera: GoPro11
• Unlimited water
• Unlimited local alcoholic drink (for those who want it)
• Sun cream

And you’ll want the basics you bring. You’re asked to pack a sun hat and a towel. If you forget the towel, you’ll still be able to swim, but drying off comfortably won’t be the plan.

The Short Sightseeing Cruise: How You Set Up for Ošljak

Before the main island time, you start with a sightseeing cruise segment (about 15 minutes). It’s not the time for deep exploration. Think of it as the warm-up: get oriented, feel the boat motion, and settle in before you head for the longer stop.

This is the moment where the tour’s character becomes clear. The skipper navigates the Adriatic with enough speed to feel like a real speedboat day, but with enough structure that you’re not worried about what happens next.

If you’re the type who likes a plan, this part helps you. You go from meeting point to “okay, here’s where we’re going, here’s what we’ll do,” without guessing.

Ošljak Island in Detail: 80 Minutes of Walking and Water Time

Ošljak is the first full island stop, with about 80 minutes on site. That time is built for variety: you’ll get a photo stop, plus free time that can include walking, hiking-like views, swimming, and snorkeling.

For me, the best value in this stop is the combination of land and water. You can do the classic “spot and swim” routine—then switch gears and take a walk if the sun hits just right. It’s also a smart chunk of time because it isn’t over in a hurry. You’re not stuck doing everything at once.

Two practical notes. First, you’ll want your towel ready for the post-snorkel moment. Second, snorkeling equipment is provided, so you don’t need to hunt down gear in Zadar before you leave.

Drawback? If you’re expecting a long, full-day island hike, this won’t be that. The point here is short, fun exploration paired with water activities. If you want a slow, quiet island day only on foot, you may find 80 minutes a bit fast.

The Surprise Third Stop (45 Minutes): Snorkeling and Marine Life Viewing

Between Ošljak and Preko, you’ll get another quick sightseeing segment (about 10 minutes), then a stop described as a surprise third island. You’ll have about 45 minutes there, including a photo stop and time for swimming, snorkeling, and marine life viewing.

This is one of the reasons the tour works for people who get bored easily. The snorkeling doesn’t feel like the same activity repeated three times in the same way. The marine life viewing time is also a nice bonus for anyone who wants to keep an eye on what’s actually living in the water.

Here’s how to approach this stop so you don’t feel rushed. Treat it like a water-focused session first, then do any quick sightseeing after. With only 45 minutes, you’ll get more satisfaction if you don’t split your time too evenly between every possible activity.

Preko Island: Coffee, Shopping, and Another Hour in the Sea

Preko is the longest break after Ošljak, with about 1 hour of island time. You’ll have opportunities for coffee, free time, shopping, walking, swimming, and snorkeling.

Preko is the kind of stop that balances the day. Earlier stops are more about views and water, while this one adds the “wander and grab something” vibe. The shopping and coffee time are useful if you want to reset after being in swim mode.

One subtle benefit: Preko is great for photos without turning your entire day into a photo sprint. You can step away from the water for a bit, look around, and then return for another swim when you feel like it.

If you’re the type who likes to buy small souvenirs, this is probably where you’ll find the most time-friendly opportunity. One hour isn’t endless, but it’s enough to browse without stress.

Drinks and Snorkeling Gear: The Comfort Pieces That Matter

This tour is generous with hydration and onboard extras. You’ll have unlimited water and unlimited local alcoholic drinks during the outing.

That matters because sea days can sneak up on you. Even if you don’t notice the heat right away, sun plus saltwater equals tired legs and dry faces. Having water included removes the “do I have to budget for drinks?” worry.

The snorkeling setup is also practical. Snorkeling equipment is provided on the boat, so the learning curve is mostly about when to get in and how to manage your buoyancy. And yes, you get an underwater camera in the mix.

The underwater camera—GoPro11—means you’re not relying on a phone-only attempt. If you want photos that look like you actually spent time in the water, this helps.

The Real Cost: $34 Plus Docking Fees

The listed price is $34 per person for a 4-hour, three-island speedboat outing with snorkeling equipment and included onboard drinks. That’s not just about the boat ride. You’re paying for transport between islands fast, guided timing, and included water activities gear and the underwater camera.

Then there’s the docking fee, which is separate: 10 EUR for adults and 5 EUR for children total for all stops. That extra cost changes the math slightly, so it’s worth planning for it up front.

Still, the value is strong if you’ll use the snorkeling time and want the included photo capture. If you’re not planning to snorkel at all, the tour becomes more about speedboat thrills and quick island breaks—and you might compare it to other boat or island options.

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

This is a good fit for:

• People who want a fun speedboat day without committing to a full day at sea
• Anyone who likes a mix of swimming, snorkeling, and some walking
• Groups that prefer a smaller headcount (up to 12) for a calmer experience
• Travelers who enjoy a guide-led rhythm but still want free time on islands

It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and it has age limits. It’s not appropriate for babies under 1 year, and it’s also not suitable for people over 95.

Also, if you’re sensitive to fast boat motion, consider whether a speedboat pace is your thing. The ride has energy, and people who like speed seem to get the most out of it.

How the Tour Is Run: Guides Like Josip and Luka

The guides are a big part of making this feel smooth. Names that come up often include Josip and Luka, and the overall pattern is consistent: clear instructions at each stop, practical guidance on what to do with your time, and lots of friendly check-ins.

On a tour like this, that matters. When you have multiple water moments and several timed breaks, you want someone who keeps the group moving without micromanaging every minute. The good guides also help you with the “what next” questions: where to swim, when to return, and how to make the most of the short land time.

Tips to Get the Most From Your Stops

Bring what’s listed: sun hat and towel. Then add a simple mindset: treat each island as a mini-session.

A good rhythm on this kind of schedule looks like:

• Jump in early during your stop if the water feels best right away
• Use your free time for one land activity (walk or shopping) instead of trying to do everything
• Take photos during the photo stop moments, then enjoy the water without hovering over your camera

If you’re using the GoPro11 underwater camera, plan to take advantage of the snorkeling time rather than waiting until you’re already done.

Book It or Skip It: My Decision Guide

I’d book this tour if you want an easy, high-energy Zadar half-day that mixes islands and snorkeling without hauling gear or dealing with long transfers. The included snorkeling equipment, unlimited drinks, and underwater camera are strong value, and the small group size helps it feel manageable.

I’d think twice if docking fees would strain your budget, or if you only want a calm on-foot island experience. With timed stops and lots of water time, it’s designed for movement. You’ll have a better day if you’re happy to be in and out of the sea.

Bottom line: this is a great “one afternoon, three islands, real sea time” choice.

FAQ

How long is the Zadar 3-Island Speedboat Tour?

The tour lasts about 4 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability.

Where do I meet the guide for this tour?

You meet at Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, opposite Foša restaurant. Look for a guide wearing a red hat.

Which islands are visited during the tour?

You’ll visit Ošljak, Preko, and a surprise third island stop.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is provided on board.

Are drinks included on the speedboat?

Yes. You get unlimited water and unlimited local alcoholic drinks during the tour.

What’s the underwater camera included with the tour?

The tour includes a GoPro11 underwater camera.

Are there any extra fees not included in the price?

Yes. Docking fees are not included: 10 EUR per adult and 5 EUR per child total for all stops.

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