Zadar: Island-Hopping, Swimming & Snorkeling SpeedBoat Tour

Zadar: Island-Hopping, Swimming & Snorkeling SpeedBoat Tour Review

Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast often involves boat trips, but this particular tour stands out for its combination of speed, scenery, and activity. Offered by Alamar Travel, the half-day experience packs in visits to multiple islands, swimming in clear waters, and the chance to learn about the region’s natural and historical treasures—all in just four hours. It’s a lively, compact adventure designed for those who love a mix of excitement and relaxation.

One of the aspects we really appreciate is how the guides seem to bring the trip to life. From detailed explanations of each island’s history to their responsiveness to weather changes, it’s clear that the small group setting fosters a very personalized experience. At only $52 per person, the value for such a well-organized, activity-packed trip is quite high—especially considering drinks, snorkeling gear, and even WiFi are included.

A possible consideration? This tour is quite active—expect plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and boat movement—so it suits travelers with at least moderate fitness. Plus, it’s not ideal for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues. But if you’re looking for an authentic, fun-filled day on the water with knowledgeable guides, this trip might be just what you need.

Who is this tour best for? It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy water activities, want to see multiple islands without wasting time in transit, and appreciate a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Families with slightly older kids, couples, or solo travelers eager for social interaction will find it especially enjoyable.

Key Points

• Dynamic itinerary that includes swimming, snorkeling, and island exploration
• Knowledgeable guides who enrich the experience with local insights
• All-inclusive drinks, safety equipment, WiFi, and snorkeling gear
• Flexible scheduling with weather adjustments and optional hidden gems
• Value-packed at $52, especially considering the small-group setting
• Active tour requiring moderate fitness levels

What You Can Expect From This Speedboat Tour

Starting Point & Departure
The tour kicks off at the INA gas station in Zadar, where you’ll meet your boat roughly 15 minutes before departure. The actual boat is modern and well-equipped, with a Bluetooth music speaker and a GoPro underwater camera to capture your adventures. Punctuality is essential, as the boat only waits briefly—so plan to arrive on time!

First Stop: Ugljan Island
Once on board, the tour begins with a cruise across the shimmering waters to Ugljan Island. This is where you’ll get your first taste of swimming in crystal-clear waters, with a chance to snorkel among vibrant fish. Reviewers have noted how much they enjoyed the underwater world here, praising the snorkeling gear and the clarity of the water. It’s a fantastic way to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty of the Adriatic without needing to go far.

Next: Oljak Island
The next destination is Oljak, the smallest inhabited Croatian island. Described as a “perle,” Oljak offers an inviting park-forest vibe filled with pines, holm oaks, and olive trees. It’s a scenic spot for a walk, where you can learn about the island’s history and enjoy the aromas of Mediterranean herbs. Although the island’s main appeal is its quiet charm, some might find the walk relaxing and insightful, especially with guides sharing local stories.

Third Stop: Galevac Island
The tour then heads to Galevac, a tiny but picturesque island surrounded by shallow sandy beaches. Here you can choose to walk around and soak up the peaceful scenery, or jump straight into the water for more swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers highlight how the shallow waters around Galevac make it particularly suitable for swimming, with some calling it the “coziest place” to unwind.

Weather & Hidden Gems
Depending on weather conditions, the guide may add or modify stops to include other natural attractions or secret spots. This flexibility is a big plus, allowing the experience to adapt and ensure safety and enjoyment. Guests have appreciated the way guides like Marin and Petar are attentive and responsive, making those spontaneous stops meaningful.

The Experience on Board

The boat itself is a modern craft equipped with safety gear, WiFi, and a Bluetooth speaker that sets a lively yet relaxed tone. The inclusion of a GoPro underwater camera lets you document your underwater adventures, while the ice-box with water and beers keeps everyone refreshed. The small group size fosters camaraderie, and reviews consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and local knowledge.

Tour Duration & Pacing
Spanning about four hours, this tour is designed to maximize what you see and do without feeling rushed. With multiple stops, chances to swim and snorkel, and some free time to walk around the islands, it’s a balanced mix of activity and relaxation.

Price & Value
At $52 per person, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering that drinks, snorkeling equipment, safety gear, WiFi, and insurance are included. It’s a straightforward, all-in-one package that covers the essentials for a memorable day on the water. For comparison, other similar tours might omit some of these amenities or include longer durations at a higher cost.

Weather & Safety
Weather can influence the itinerary, and the guides are transparent about possible modifications. If weather conditions prevent certain stops, you’ll be offered alternative options or a full refund if the tour is canceled. This flexibility means you won’t be left disappointed if conditions aren’t perfect.

Authentic and Engaging Guides

Reviewers consistently highlight the guides as a standout feature. Marin, Petar, and other crew members are described as “really kind,” “knowledgeable,” and “responsive.” They enhance the trip by explaining the history of Dalmatia, sharing local stories, and adapting the itinerary to keep everyone comfortable and safe. Their enthusiasm and attentiveness make a significant difference, especially for first-timers or those unfamiliar with snorkeling.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunscreen and a hat—the sun can be intense during the day.
• Wear appropriate water footwear if you plan to walk around the islands.
• Have moderate fitness—the tour involves a fair amount of swimming and boat movement.
• Arrive on time at the meeting point to avoid missing the boat.
• Book in advance especially during peak seasons, as small group tours tend to fill up quickly.
• Check weather forecasts before the day to set expectations for possible itinerary adjustments.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy water-based activities and want to explore multiple islands without the hassle of organizing transportation. It suits those with moderate fitness levels, since there’s plenty of swimming and walking involved. Families with older kids (over 10) will appreciate the relaxed but active atmosphere, while solo travelers and couples will find it a social, fun way to meet others.

However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, young children, or anyone with specific health issues or low fitness levels. The active nature of the tour requires mobility and stamina.

Final Thoughts

This Zadar island-hopping speedboat tour offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, engaging activities, and knowledgeable guides—all at a fair price. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, WiFi, and drinks makes it convenient and comfortable. If you’re looking for a fun, active way to see Croatia’s islands, this experience provides genuine value without sacrificing authenticity.

While it’s a fast-paced trip, the well-chosen stops and friendly guides mean you’ll leave with plenty of memorable moments, stunning photos, and a sense of connection to this beautiful coast. Perfect for those who want a day packed with swimming, exploring, and soaking up the sun.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that fits well into a broader Croatia itinerary.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the INA gas station in Zadar and finishes back at the same spot, making logistics simple.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 10 due to the active nature of the trip and swimming activities.

What is included in the price?
The price covers boat and skipper, safety and snorkeling equipment, WiFi, drinks (water and beers), and passenger insurance.

Can the itinerary change?
Yes, depending on weather conditions, the guide may modify stops or include additional natural attractions and hidden spots.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water shoes if you wish, and a towel. The tour provides snorkeling gear and safety equipment.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, berthing, anchorage, and protected area fees are payable in cash at check-in, approximately 5 Euros per person.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and ensure availability.

To sum it up, this half-day speedboat adventure around Zadar’s islands offers a lively, authentic taste of Croatia’s stunning coast. It’s perfect for water lovers eager to explore, swim, and learn about Dalmatia in an engaging, friendly environment. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll leave with new memories—and a few great photos—of this beautiful part of the world.