Experience Zadar Archipelago with private Antares sailing tour

If you’re dreaming of a day spent sailing through Croatia’s beautiful Zadar archipelago, this private Antares sailing tour offers a fantastic way to do just that. With a duration of around four hours, your group will enjoy personalized attention on a comfortable boat, guided by knowledgeable local skippers—one of whom is a seasoned father-daughter team. It’s an experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and plenty of opportunities to relax and swim.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is how this tour emphasizes authenticity and local insights. The guides are passionate about sharing the region’s story and natural beauty, making the trip more than just a boat ride. They know the best spots to swim, explore, and take in the views. However, potential travelers should keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so planning for a meal or snacks might be necessary. This tour suits travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate experience away from busy tourist spots—perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: The intimate nature of this tour makes it ideal for small groups wanting a tailored experience.
• Stunning Stops: From traditional Mediterranean architecture in Oljak to swimming sessions in pristine bays, every stop offers something special.
• Knowledgeable Guides: The family-run operation means you’ll benefit from local insights and genuine hospitality.
• Flexible and Relaxed: The itinerary includes options for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying the sea breezes, with plenty of opportunities for rest.
• Value for Money: For around $240 for up to five people, you’re getting a semi-private, well-reviewed tour that includes snorkeling gear and drinks.
• Authentic Experience: The focus on showing you the coast from a local perspective is a highlight, rather than a cookie-cutter cruise.

This private sailing experience with Antares Sailing offers a balanced blend of sightseeing, relaxation, and local culture, making it stand out among tours around Zadar. The price — approximately $240 for up to five people — delivers a good value considering the personalized guidance, boat comfort, and multiple stops. It’s the kind of outing that makes you feel like a guest rather than a tourist, especially with the family’s emphasis on sharing their love for the region.

Meeting Point and Duration

Starting at Bakelitplast in Zadar, the tour kicks off in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the coast and islands without feeling rushed. The four-hour window is just right for a relaxed yet immersive experience, with enough time to swim, explore, and admire the scenery. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Oljak is your first stop — a charming village showcasing traditional Mediterranean architecture. Here, you’ll notice the carefully preserved stone houses and narrow streets that tell stories of old Croatia. Reviewers have pointed out how the scenery alone makes this worth the trip, with one noting, “the houses are perfect examples of traditional Mediterranean construction,” which adds an authentic touch to your experience.

Next, the boat sails to Otok Galevac, just opposite Preko. This is a favorite swimming spot, with its old church and monastery collection adding a slice of history to the natural beauty. The shallow waters and calm surroundings make it an ideal place for a refreshing dip, and many travelers comment on how the guide took care to find accessible spots for all ages and abilities.

Preko is your third stop, a lively town known for its fertile land and scenic beaches. It’s a good place to stretch your legs, take photos, or simply enjoy the Mediterranean vibe. The reviews highlight how the guides tailor the stops based on guest preferences — one reviewer shared that the guide knew exactly where to take them for the best swimming and snorkeling spots.

Iconic Landmarks from the Sea

Besides these stops, the tour includes a cruise past Sea Organ and Greetings to the Sun — Zadar’s famed architectural installations that come alive with sound and light. Seeing them from the water offers a different perspective, and the panoramic views over Zadar from the boat are stunning, especially at sunset or during bright sunny days.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Use of snorkeling equipment
– Bottled water
– A professional skipper/guide

These inclusions make the experience comfortable and accessible, especially if you’re keen on swimming or snorkeling. Many reviews mention how the guide’s local knowledge enhanced the trip — they’ll pick the best spots for swimming and sightseeing, tailored to your group’s preferences.

Not included:
– Lunch, breakfast, or brunch

While this means you need to bring your own snacks or plan to eat later, it also offers flexibility. The tour doesn’t rush you for mealtime, and you can enjoy your own food at stops or on the boat.

The Guides and Their Impact

Reviews repeatedly emphasize the guides’ friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness. Laura, the guide in many reviews, is praised for her ability to customize the experience and her warm, welcoming attitude. One reviewer mentioned she was “the best sniper,” highlighting her sharp eye for the best viewing spots and swimming locations. Another noted how she took them to accessible spots for those with mobility challenges, demonstrating her attention to guest needs.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is quite flexible, keep in mind that it’s weather-dependent. If bad weather cancels the trip, you’re eligible for a full refund or rescheduling. Also, the tour is suitable for most travelers but not recommended for those with serious medical conditions, so consider this if you have mobility or health concerns.

Who Would Love This Tour

This experience is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, intimate day on the water with a touch of local flavor. Families with children or older travelers will appreciate the calm bays and accessible swimming spots. Couples or small groups looking for a scenic escape with personalized guidance will also find this ideal. If you’re also interested in seeing the coast from a different perspective and enjoy a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and cultural touches, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

The Antares private sailing tour in Zadar offers a fantastic way to explore the coast while avoiding crowded beaches and touristy spots. The genuine local guidance, combined with comfortable boats and a flexible itinerary, makes this a standout experience for those wanting to connect with Croatia’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace.

The tour’s emphasis on personalized attention and authentic stops means you’ll leave with memorable moments, whether it’s a swim in a quiet bay, a photo of traditional architecture, or just enjoying the sea breeze from the deck. Considering the positive reviews, it’s clear that both guides and guests leave with high praise — and it’s easy to see why.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value intimate experiences, love the sea, and want to see the coast from a local’s point of view. It’s also great for those who prefer a flexible schedule and appreciate knowledgeable guides who can enhance the trip with insider tips. Overall, it’s an enriching addition to any Zadar visit — particularly for small groups craving some genuine seaside serenity.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, providing enough time for multiple stops, swimming, and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

What is the meeting point?
It starts at Bakelitplast in Zadar, specifically at the address Vl. Paolo Bajlo, Bregdetti ul. 42.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s a private activity, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more tailored experience.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and the services of a skilled skipper/guide.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, and if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is food included?
No, lunch, breakfast, or brunch are not included, so plan to bring your own snacks or meals if desired.

Is this suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for those with serious medical conditions. The guide has shown flexibility in taking guests to accessible swimming spots.

What are the main highlights of the stops?
You’ll love the traditional architecture in Oljak, swimming at Galevac’s calm bays, exploring Preko, and viewing Zadar’s famous Sea Organ and Greetings to the Sun from the water.

In essence, this private sailing tour offers a genuine, relaxed way to experience the Zadar coast with a knowledgeable guide, stunning scenery, and the flexibility to tailor the day to your preferences. It’s ideal for travelers looking for an authentic Croatian maritime adventure away from the crowds.