From Zadar: 3 magical stops with a cold drink

Taking a boat trip from Zadar that promises three stunning stops, plenty of swimming, and chilled drinks sounds like the ideal way to spend a half-day exploring Croatia’s beautiful coastlines. This particular tour, run by Niko Excursion, has earned a solid 5-star rating from 45 reviews — a promising sign for anyone seeking a fun, authentic, and value-packed adventure. We’re sharing an honest look at what makes this trip special, along with some pointers to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

What we love about this experience is how it combines scenic beauty and relaxed pacing — no rushed sightseeing, just enough time to breathe in the view, snorkel in quiet bays, and enjoy local flavors. The inclusion of cold drinks and snorkeling gear enhances the laid-back vibe, making it ideal for those wanting a refreshing break from city life. A possible downside is the limited scope for land exploration, as most of the trip is spent on the water and in small stops, so if you’re craving extensive island sightseeing, you might prefer a longer or more in-depth tour. Nevertheless, this tour suits travelers looking for a quick, exhilarating escape that’s easy to fit into a day’s schedule, especially if you love swimming, sunbathing, and scenic views.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: A 4-hour tour ideal for a half-day adventure
• Includes snorkeling gear and drinks: Perfect for cooling off and exploring underwater
• Three scenic stops: Blue Lagoon, Kali on Ugljan, Galevac island
• Expert local skipper: Knowledgeable and friendly guide enhances the experience
• Great value: At only $27 per person, it offers a lot for a small investment
• Suitable for most: Not ideal for those with mobility issues or babies under 1 year

An Overview of the Experience

This speedboat trip from Zadar offers an easy-going yet memorable way to explore some of Croatia’s lesser-known spots. With a maximum duration of just four hours, it’s designed to give you a taste of island life, crystal-clear waters, and local flavors without the need for a full-day commitment. The tour departs from Obala kneza Branimira, a central location close to Zadar’s main attractions, making it convenient for travelers staying in or near the city.

The vessel used is an open speedboat, which means plenty of space for relaxing, sunbathing, or taking photos while cruising between stops. The skipper, a local with expertise in the area, ensures safety and smooth navigation, and the small group size (not specified but indicated by reviews) creates an intimate and friendly atmosphere.

Pricing is quite reasonable at $27 per person, with most of the cost covering the boat ride, fuel, and drinks. The tour includes a bottled cold water and ice tea, which are perfect for staying hydrated in the Croatian sun, and the onboard music adds a lively vibe.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Obala kneza Branimira

This is where the adventure kicks off. The spot is easy to find, and arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to avoid traffic and get comfortable. The crew emphasizes punctuality, and most reviews mention planning for a bit of traffic congestion.

First Stop: Blue Bay Otri

A 45-minute break at the Blue Lagoon offers the chance to swim, snorkel, and simply relax. The reviews mention how stunning this bay is, with reviews describing the waters as crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling. Guests can jump from the boat into the water or float around with provided masks and snorkels. Many reviewers noted how peaceful and less crowded this spot is, making it perfect for quiet swimming and wildlife spotting, including dolphins occasionally seen nearby.

Second Stop: Kali on Ugljan Island

Next, the boat cruises for about 10 minutes before docking in Kali, a charming fishing village on Ugljan. Here, the focus shifts from water to land. Passengers can walk through the village, taking in its authentic flavor and scenic views. The tour suggests visiting a local restaurant, Srdela Snack, known for serving fresh seafood, traditional fish dishes, and affordable prices. The reviews highlight how much visitors appreciated the recommendation for local cuisine, with some even mentioning they enjoyed delicious seafood and an authentic Croatian experience.

Third Stop: Galevac Island

The final stop involves an approximately 45-minute swim at Galevac, a small island accessible by a short swim from the boat. Reviewers love this part for its intimate size and natural beauty, with some opting to walk to the island’s monastery or relax under the pine trees. The island’s tiny size means you can see everything in about 15-20 minutes, making it ideal for a quick exploration or a peaceful rest.

Return to Zadar

After this, the boat heads back for the 10-minute cruise to the starting point, arriving around 2 pm. As one reviewer noted, the day flowed smoothly, with plenty of time to unwind and enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Blue Lagoon: Expect calm waters, vibrant marine life, and the freedom to swim or snorkel at your leisure. The included mask and snorkel gear make it easy to see underwater without extra expense. Reviewers appreciate the tranquility of this hidden bay, away from busy beaches.

Kali Village: This is a great chance to stretch your legs and savor local flavors. The recommended restaurant, Srdela Snack, offers traditional seafood dishes at an affordable price. It’s a good spot for a quick lunch or snack, and some reviews mention enjoying a local beer or wine while taking in the scenic views.

Galevac Island: The highlight here is the chance to swim to the small island or explore the monastery. It’s a peaceful, intimate setting, perfect for relaxing under the pine trees or snapping photos of the tiny island from different angles.

The Value of This Tour

At just $27, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It includes the boat ride, fuel, drinks, snorkeling gear, and music — which collectively create a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. The reviews consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides, often mentioning how the skipper shared interesting tidbits about the areas visited.

While the tour doesn’t include lunch or extensive land exploration, the option to visit a local restaurant in Kali adds a culinary dimension that many travelers find worthwhile. The stops are well-spaced, offering enough time to swim, relax, and take photos without feeling hurried.

A slight consideration is the docking fee of 10 kunas per person, payable in cash on the boat. It’s a minor expense but worth noting if you’re on a tight budget. Also, the tour is not suitable for very young children under 1 year or those with limited mobility, so it’s best suited for active, able-bodied travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous beach lovers, snorkelers, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the city. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy short excursions but want to see a variety of spots, including quiet bays and charming villages. Those looking for local food recommendations and beautiful scenery will find it especially rewarding. It’s also a great choice for small groups or couples wanting an intimate adventure on the water.

Final Thoughts

This Zadar speedboat tour delivers a fun, scenic, and relaxing half-day escape, balancing crystal-clear waters, charming villages, and stunning views. The price point makes it accessible, and the inclusion of snorkeling gear and drinks enhances the overall experience. The knowledgeable local skipper, combined with well-chosen stops, creates a trip that feels both authentic and effortless.

While it might not satisfy travelers seeking extensive land tours or multiple days, this experience is perfect for those craving a quick, memorable splash of island life. Expect a smooth, well-organized outing with friendly guides, gorgeous scenery, and plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy Croatia’s natural beauty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable on boats and in water. The tour isn’t recommended for babies under 1 year or those with mobility issues.

How long are the stops?
Each stop lasts between 45 minutes to 80 minutes, giving ample time to swim, explore, or relax.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you’ll get bottled cold water and ice tea on board, perfect for cooling down under the Croatian sun.

Can I bring my own food?
Food isn’t included in the tour price, but you can visit the recommended local restaurant in Kali for a meal.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, masks and snorkels are included, making it easy to see underwater without bringing your own.

What is the departure point?
The tour departs from Obala kneza Branimira, near a small gas station in Zadar.

How much is the docking fee?
The fee is 10 kunas per person, payable in cash on the boat.

What is the group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest it’s a small, intimate group, ideal for a personal experience.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, camera, and cash are recommended. Arriving 15 minutes early helps avoid traffic delays.

Is the tour available in other languages?
It’s operated by an English-speaking guide, so expect explanations and commentary in English.

In summary, this tour offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, relaxation, and local flavor for travelers wanting a quick but memorable Croatian adventure. It’s especially well-suited for those who love water activities, charming villages, and stunning coastal views — all at a budget-friendly price.