There’s something about speed over calm water. This half-day island speedboat tour has you bouncing between three small Adriatic stops, with snorkeling time and guide-led storytelling you can actually ask questions about. It’s a practical way to see more than just Zadar’s waterfront in one outing.

I love the mix of short walks plus real swim time, so the day never feels like one long bus ride. And I really like that it’s small-group capped at 12, which means you’re not shouting over other people while your guide points out how life works on these islands.

One thing to consider: the first island stop can feel more rocky than beachy. If you want an easy step-into-water shoreline right at the start, plan for careful entry and bring footwear you trust.

Key things to know before you go

• Three islands in about four hours with a good balance of moving and hanging out
• Snorkeling equipment included plus a dedicated anchoring swim spot
• Small group of max 12 so questions don’t get lost
• A short climb on Ošljak (about 15 minutes up) for sweeping views
• Plan on extra docking fees (10€ per person) even though most stops are free
• Drinks are limited based on recent feedback, so don’t bank on unlimited alcohol

Speedboat Vibes and Small-Group Comfort from Zadar

This tour is built for motion. You’re in a speedboat setting, so expect sea spray, quick water views, and that fun “we’re going somewhere” energy. The best part is that you still get time off the boat: island tops to explore, a monastery stop to look around, and an actual anchoring session for snorkeling and swimming.

The small group (up to 12) is a big deal in real life. You don’t feel like a numbered passenger. You can ask why one cove looks different than the next, or what that coastline used to support. Guides named in recent feedback include David, Joseph, and Roko (and several captains), and the recurring theme is that the crew shares details without making it a lecture.

Also: there’s WiFi on board. It won’t replace your travel playlist or camera time, but it’s handy when you want to check directions or message home during a calmer stretch.

Ošljak Island: A Tiny Adriatic Life with a Short Climb

Ošljak is the kind of place that makes you slow down—because it’s small, quiet, and clearly lived-in. The island has only about 35 inhabitants, and the feel is that of a working Adriatic spot, not a theme park. You’ll get around 1 hour 20 minutes here, which is enough time to walk, take photos, and still have a breather.

The highlight is the view from higher up. An experienced skipper takes you toward the top, and then the walk is described as about 15 minutes on foot and not difficult. If you can do a modest uphill path, you’ll likely be fine.

Now, about the “beaches” part. One piece of feedback was blunt: the shoreline can be rocky, with areas that lead to the water but not a smooth sandy drop-in. That doesn’t ruin the island, but it changes how you plan your swim. If you’re sensitive about foot entry, bring water shoes and treat this stop as sightseeing first, swimming second.

The upside? There are no crowds in the way you’d get on bigger islands. You’re mostly exploring with your small group and the breeze doing the entertainment.

Otok Galevac Snorkeling Stop and Saint Paul the Hermit Museum

This is where the tour turns into a classic Adriatic swim day. You’ll anchor for about 45 minutes and spend that time exploring the underwater world. Snorkeling gear is included, so you can show up without doing the “where did I pack that?” scramble.

What makes this stop work is the combo: water time plus an island walk. After the swim, you’re given time to wander through a forest area and check out historical sights. The big named attraction here is the Saint Paul the Hermit monastery museum, tied to Saint Paul the Hermit.

There’s also time to relax on the beaches and soak up the quiet. Even when the schedule moves along, this stop tends to feel like a pause.

A useful detail from the info you’re given: this is described as an islet of Galevac—also called Školjić—which you can think of as one of those small places where greenery meets old stone. If you like your island days with both nature and culture, this is a strong match.

Preko Hour: Beaches, Local Food, and a Sea-Front Break

After the first two stops, Preko gives you the best kind of free time: not rushed, not staged. You’ll have about 1 hour here. Preko is described as a small place with a big vibe—especially by the water—so your hour is basically yours to spend how you like.

This is where you can turn the day into a real meal stop. The description points you toward local food and bars by the sea, and with an hour, you can realistically grab something simple and sit where you can watch boats pass.

Also, Preko is a good “reset” between swimming and the ride back. If your feet are tired from rocky shoreline spots on the first island, you’ll usually find more comfortable strolling around town and along the waterfront.

One caution: one-hour stops are always a game of timing. If you want a longer sit-down lunch, you’ll need to order fast or plan on a snack rather than a full multi-course moment.

Price and Extra Costs: What You Pay (and What Pops Up)

The headline price is $36.30 per person for about four hours of speedboat touring with included snorkeling gear. For Zadar, that’s the kind of cost that can make sense when you’re comparing it to renting a boat, buying snorkeling rentals separately, or trying to piece together ferry + tour + swim access yourself.

But there are two cost realities you should factor in:

1) Docking fees are extra: 10€ per person

This isn’t hidden in the weeds. It’s simply not included, and it applies in total “for all stops,” so you’ll want to budget for it.

2) Drinks are not what you might hope for if you’re expecting a bar crawl

Multiple pieces of feedback describe drinks as bottled water plus a small shot of local rakija. So if alcohol is part of your plan, bring your own expectations—or bring extra cash to buy something in Preko.

Once you account for the docking fee, you’re still in a fair-value zone. You’re paying for transportation between islands, time on quieter coastlines, and snorkeling access without extra rental hassle.

Practical Tips: What to Bring for an Easy, Comfortable Swim Day

If you want the day to feel smooth, don’t show up lightly packed. Recent advice was clear on this point: water, hat, towel, and swimwear are important. Add one more thing: walking shoes (not flip-flops) for the island path at Ošljak.

Here’s a simple packing checklist that matches the real conditions:

• Towel and swimwear
• Hat and water (even if you get bottled water on board)
• Water shoes or sturdy footwear for rocky entry points
• Sunscreen (you’ll get sun while riding and during breaks)
• A light layer if you get cold on the return boat ride

Also, the meeting point is in Zadar at Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6. One practical note from recent cruise-style travel was that it can be about a 15-minute walk from the Sea Organ area, with taxis available when you don’t want the stroll. If you’re on foot, aim to give yourself buffer time so you can start relaxed, not sprinting.

Timing-wise, it’s smart to arrive early. People recommended showing up around 9:30 for a 10:00 departure, which is the kind of cushion that keeps the morning from turning into stress.

Weather, Sea Conditions, and What to Expect on the Ride

This tour needs good weather. If conditions are poor, you should expect it to be adjusted with either a different date or a full refund. That’s exactly what you want to hear for a speedboat day.

Even when weather looks fine, the sea can still get choppy. One piece of feedback noted rough water on arrival but also emphasized the captain’s skill. Translation: you’re probably going to feel the boat’s motion more than on a big ferry. If you’re prone to motion sickness, think ahead.

The good news is that the itinerary includes enough breaks that you can recover between movement stretches. Plus, you’ll spend a meaningful block of time at the snorkeling anchorage, which is the main reason to book a speedboat tour in the first place.

Who This Tour Suits Best (and Who Might Want to Skip)

This is an excellent fit if you want:

• A half-day island hit without planning a full-day logistics puzzle
• Snorkeling time with gear handled for you
• A calmer pace than all-day island hopping while still seeing three stops
• A guide who actually talks and answers questions in a small group

It’s also a nice option for mixed ages because the Ošljak climb is described as manageable, and the overall day is structured around short, achievable segments.

Where it may not be ideal:

• If you’re obsessed with soft sandy beaches at every stop, the Ošljak shoreline might not match that dream.
• If you want unlimited drinks, plan for limited inclusions (water and a shot are repeatedly mentioned), then decide whether you’ll buy more in Preko.

Should You Book This Zadar Speedboat and Snorkeling Tour?

Yes, I’d book it if your goal is to get out on the water, see real island life, and snorkel without overthinking logistics. The best reasons are the small-group feel, the clear island mix (tiny inhabited Ošljak, the museum-and-swim stop at Galevac, and the free time in Preko), and the fact that the day is long enough to matter but short enough to stay fun.

Book it with open eyes, though. Bring sturdy footwear for rocky spots, expect limited drinks, and budget for the 10€ docking fee. If you do those three things, this tour is exactly the kind of Zadar experience that feels like it was made for a few hours of ocean time.

FAQ

How long is the Zadar island luxury speedboat tour with snorkeling?

It’s listed as about 4 hours.

What islands and stops does the tour include?

The tour takes you to Ošljak, Otok Galevac (with the Saint Paul the Hermit monastery museum), and Preko.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and the tour also includes WiFi on board.

Are there extra fees besides the tour price?

Yes. Docking fees are not included and are listed as 10€ per person for all stops.

What drinks are included on the boat?

The provided info doesn’t spell out a full drink package, but multiple feedback notes say the included drinks are bottled water plus a small shot of local rakija.

What happens if the weather is bad or I need to cancel?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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