From Zadar: Ugljan, Galevac and Oljak Islands Boat Tour

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Zadar and learn about the scenic beauty of Croatia’s Dalmatian islands, this boat tour offers a balanced blend of relaxation, exploration, and authentic island charm. It’s a half-day adventure that lasts around four hours, making it perfect for those with a packed schedule but still craving a taste of the sea. The tour promises visits to Ugljan’s Frnaa beach, the tiny Galevac, and Oljak, with plenty of opportunities to swim and soak up the sun.

One thing we particularly like about this experience is how it combines laid-back time in pristine bays with the chance to explore small, less touristy islands that offer a glimpse of life’s slower pace. The guide’s local knowledge enhances the journey, making each stop more meaningful. However, for travelers who prefer a more structured, all-inclusive day with meals and larger group sizes, this might feel a bit simple. Still, it’s best suited for those wanting an intimate, scenic trip, away from crowded tourist spots.

Key Points

• Authentic Island Experience: Small island visits provide a peaceful, genuine feel of Croatian island life.
• Ideal for Swimming and Snorkeling: Clear waters make for great water activities, with gear included.
• Flexible, Half-Day Format: Perfect for travelers with limited time seeking a scenic escape.
• Knowledgeable Local Skipper: Guides add valuable insights, making each stop more engaging.
• Affordable Price for Private Group: Cost per group (up to 7 people) offers good value for a personalized experience.
• Additional Options: Extra activities like lunch are available at personal expense, but not included.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour kicks off at the gas station Ina, a convenient spot to meet your crew and hop aboard your boat. From the outset, you notice the focus on comfort and flexibility—your group is limited to up to 7 people, ensuring a more intimate experience. The boat itself is privately rented, and a professional local skipper takes charge, sharing insights about the islands and their history.

Frnaa Bay on Ugljan

The highlight of this tour is the time spent at Frnaa beach, located on Ugljan. The boat anchors in this beautiful bay, where the calm, transparent waters beckon swimmers and snorkelers. The provided snorkeling gear makes it easy to explore beneath the surface, and many guests appreciate the chance to cool off in such pristine surroundings. The shallow, gentle waters are perfect for families or less experienced swimmers, and the natural setting offers an almost untouched feel.

A reviewer noted, “It was a great experience,” praising how relaxing and picturesque the bay was. The fact that the tour includes water and juice means you can stay refreshed without having to bring your own drinks or purchase expensive beverages on the spot. The smooth ride and the opportunity to just float and relax are often cited as the best parts of this stop.

Exploring Preko and Galevac

After some downtime at Frnaa, the trip moves to Preko, a charming town with a sandy beach and a small aquapark perfect for kids or anyone looking to splash around. Here, you’ll find a chance to stretch your legs, grab a drink in a local cafe, and enjoy a bit of the authentic island vibe.

Adjacent to Preko is Galevac, a tiny island accessible by swimming or a traditional small wooden boat. This island is noted for its peaceful church surrounded by untouched nature, making it more than just a scenic stop—you get a true feel of the quiet, unspoiled Croatian islands. Though small, Galevac’s charm lies in its simplicity and serenity, ideal for those seeking tranquility away from the crowds.

The Final Stop: Oljak

The last part of your trip takes you to Oljak, another small island where you’ll have the chance to walk around, soak in the views, and swim in the clear sea. With fewer travelers, Oljak offers an authentic experience of island life—perfect for a relaxed stroll or a dip in the water. The shallow, inviting sea allows for easy swimming, and the natural surroundings provide ideal photo opportunities.

Guests have expressed appreciation for the beautiful scenery and the relaxed pace, noting that “you can spend your time walking around or just floating in the water,” which makes for a perfect end to the trip.

Practical Details and Value

The tour’s price of $294 for a group of up to 7 strikes us as reasonable, considering the inclusion of a private boat, snorkeling gear, water, and juice. The guidance by a knowledgeable local skipper adds value, as they often share interesting tidbits about the islands’ history and nature, transforming a simple boat ride into an engaging experience.

While the package doesn’t include lunch or docking fees (additional costs), these are minor considerations. For instance, you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy a drink at one of the stops, especially at Preko. The tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up, but the designated meeting point is straightforward to access.

The tour’s flexible booking policy, allowing you to reserve and pay later, makes it easy to plan without immediate commitment. It’s also worth noting that the activity isn’t suitable for travelers over 70, mainly due to the physical nature of swimming and walking around the islands.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is ideal for those who want a relaxed, scenic escape from Zadar, with a focus on swimming and exploring small islands in a more intimate setting. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a gentle adventure that balances water fun with quiet walks. If you love authentic, unspoiled natural environments and appreciate knowledgeable guides, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

It’s less suitable for travelers seeking a full-day adventure, luxury amenities, or those with mobility issues. The modest pace and limited duration make it a good match for travelers with a few hours to spare and a desire to see some of the Dalmatian coast’s best features without the crowds.

Final Thoughts

This Ugljan, Galevac, and Oljak Islands boat tour offers a charming and genuine taste of the Dalmatian archipelago. Its combination of stunning scenery, tranquil stops, and the friendly guidance of a local skipper make it a solid choice for travelers wanting an authentic island-hopping experience without the fuss of larger tours.

The price point reflects a personalized experience that emphasizes comfort, water activities, and cultural authenticity. While it might lack some luxury touches, it compensates with its focus on natural beauty and relaxed pace. Whether you’re a family wanting to splash around, a couple seeking a romantic escape, or a solo traveler eager to explore, this tour delivers in spades.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the gas station Ina, which is the designated meeting point. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to get there.

What’s the duration of the trip?
The entire trip lasts around 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that fits into a busy itinerary.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, and the clear waters at Frnaa bay are ideal for underwater exploration.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t recommended for people over 70 years old, likely due to the physical activity involved.

What is the cost for a group?
The price is $294 per group, with a maximum of 7 people, providing good value for a private, personalized experience.

Are drinks provided?
Yes, water and juice are included, so you can stay refreshed without additional purchases during the trip.

This boat tour from Zadar stands out as a genuine, enjoyable way to explore some of Croatia’s lesser-known islands, offering a perfect blend of water fun, sightseeing, and peaceful natural beauty.