Island Adventure Ugljan by Speedboat

Exploring Ugljan by Speedboat: A Practical Guide to a Memorable Croat Island Adventure

If you’re looking for an affordable yet engaging way to experience Croatia’s beautiful Dalmatian islands, the Island Adventure Ugljan by Speedboat offers a compelling option. This tour whisks you from Zadar’s harbor to the charming Ugljan Island, focusing on natural beauty, local culture, and a touch of fun on the water. With a high overall rating of 5 out of 5 from 29 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this trip both valuable and enjoyable.

What we particularly love about this experience is the chance to explore Ugljan, Osljak, and the nearby coastlines in a small group, creating a more intimate and flexible vibe. The customization options seem to allow for spontaneous stops or leisurely swims, making every trip feel unique. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is only about 4 hours long—if you’re eager to really dive into each island’s offerings, this might feel a little rushed. It’s perfectly suited for travelers who want a taste of the Dalmatian coast without spending a whole day at sea, especially families, solo travelers, or couples seeking a relaxed yet lively excursion.

Key Points

Affordable price point offers great value for such a personalized experience.
Small group setting ensures a more tailored adventure with fewer crowds.
Knowledgeable guides and skipper enhance the trip with local insights and safety.
Flexibility to customize stops for swimming, sightseeing, or relaxing.
Stunning views of coastlines, islands, and crystal-clear waters.
Ideal for those wanting a quick, scenic escape from Zadar without sacrificing comfort or fun.

A Detailed Look at the Speedboat Tour Experience

The Departure and Setting

The tour kicks off in Zadar’s harbor, with a professional skipper guiding the boat. From the reviews, it’s clear that Mario, the guide many travelers praised, is not just friendly but also passionate about sharing his knowledge. His enthusiasm, combined with his attentiveness—offering water, local beer, and even allowing children to steer the boat briefly—adds a genuine personal touch that many will appreciate.

The speedboat itself is described as clean and comfortable, with snorkel gear included, ensuring you’re ready for water adventures from the start. The fuel costs, port fees, and drinks are included in the $34 price, which makes for a straightforward booking, with the option to pay a minimal additional docking fee (€10) on board.

The Scenic Cruise to Ugljan

Once underway, the boat slices through tranquil waters, offering sights of the coastline and nearby islands. The cruise to Ugljan is noted for spectacular views—crystal-clear waters, rocky coves, and the rolling landscape of Dalmatia. Many describe this part as a fast, comfortable ride that builds anticipation for the island exploration ahead.

Exploring Preko: The First Stop

Preko, on the northern shore of Ugljan, acts as the natural first stop. This charming village strikes a lovely balance between traditional Dalmatian architecture and modern touches. It’s perfect for a quick walk, a coffee break, or a swim in the lovely beaches like Jadrtovac and Luie, which are often praised for their pebble and sandy shores.

Reviews highlight that Preko is ideal for relaxing, enjoying local ice cream, or simply taking in the scenery. Its central location makes it a great waypoint if you want a peaceful spot without the crowds often found at more touristy beaches.

Ugljan Town and Its Charms

The main town, Ugljan (the island’s largest settlement), offers a peaceful yet engaging experience. With picturesque streets, stone houses, and water views, it’s a place where time slows down. Many visitors note that Ugljan is an ideal spot to escape the more crowded tourist areas—a trait that makes the tour particularly appealing for those seeking authenticity.

For history enthusiasts, sights such as the Church of St. Michael and the medieval fortress provide a peek into the island’s heritage—though these are more for leisurely exploration than exhaustive sightseeing.

The island’s olive groves are another highlight, with the chance to stroll through them or even participate in an olive oil tasting, according to some reviews. This offers a quieter, more rural side of Croatia that many travelers find charming.

Water Activities and Relaxation

The tour’s inclusion of snorkeling gear is a big plus. Reviewers mention snorkeling stops where you can admire fascinating rocky underwater landscapes. Many guests note that the crystal-clear water makes swimming particularly enjoyable, with some describing the bays as “impressively secluded” despite nearby boats.

The Return Journey

The trip wraps up with a scenic return to Zadar. Many reviews emphasize how the relaxed vibe, friendly guides, and stunning scenery make this a memorable half-day outing. One traveler mentioned that the guide, Mario, loves his work and goes out of his way to make guests comfortable and informed.

Why This Tour Is a Great Value

At just $34 per person, this tour offers an affordable glimpse into Croatia’s Dalmatian islands. The price includes the skipper, fuel, snorkeling equipment, port fees, and drinks, making it a transparent and straightforward deal. Compared to longer or larger-group tours, the small-group format ensures a more personal experience, with ample opportunity for questions and spontaneous stops.

Many travelers expressed how Mario’s knowledge and friendliness elevated the experience, creating a convivial atmosphere. From his helpful tips to his ability to make children feel involved, it’s clear the guide plays a big role in making the day special.

The 4-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to see multiple spots and enjoy water activities, but short enough for those with limited time or looking for a quick escape. If you’re someone who enjoys scenic drives, water-based fun, and exploring small coastal villages, this tour checks all the boxes.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for families with kids, given the relaxed pace and the fact that children are encouraged to participate (even steering the boat!). It’s also well-suited for solo travelers or couples wanting a personalized, scenic outing. Those with a limited budget but a love for natural beauty will find the price point hard to beat, especially considering the inclusion of snorkeling gear and drinks.

If you enjoy short, well-organized excursions that combine sightseeing, water fun, and local culture, this tour delivers. It’s also a great choice if you prefer small groups and personalized attention over large, touristy boat trips.

Final Thoughts

The Island Adventure Ugljan by Speedboat offers a neat package of scenic views, authentic experiences, and friendly guides—all at a very reasonable price. The small-group format, combined with the flexibility to tailor stops and activities, makes it stand out among many island tours. Reviewers consistently praise the guide Mario for his enthusiasm, local insights, and safety-consciousness, which undoubtedly enhances the overall experience.

While it’s a quick trip, it provides a meaningful glimpse into Ugljan’s charm, waters, and laid-back vibe. With stunning beaches, historic sites, and opportunities for snorkeling, this tour suits anyone wanting a half-day escape into Croatia’s coastal beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a quick revisit, it’s a straightforward and rewarding way to see some of Dalmatia’s best without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 hours, including travel and stops, making it perfect for a half-day adventure.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a professional skipper, fuel, snorkeling equipment, port fees, and drinks. You will need to pay a small docking fee of €10 on board.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Zadar’s harbor, just behind the tankstelle (gas station) near the old town, easily accessible by bus or on foot.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, reviews indicate it’s family-friendly. Children can participate actively and even steer the boat briefly, adding a fun element.

Can I customize the stops or activities?
The tour is described as flexible, allowing for spontaneous swimming or sightseeing stops if time permits.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you might also want a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

How many people are typically in the group?
While the exact size isn’t specified, the small group aspect suggests a limited number of participants, enhancing personal attention.

What if I don’t speak Croatian?
Guides speak English, making it accessible for international travelers.

Is it worth the price?
Based on reviews and inclusions, yes. The combination of scenic beauty, water activities, and personal service offers excellent value.

This speedboat tour provides an excellent balance of scenic sightseeing, water fun, and cultural insight—all in just a few hours and at a very reasonable cost. Whether you’re after a laid-back day, family fun, or a quick taste of Croatia’s islands, it’s a trip worth considering.