Private Boat tour with refreshing drinks Zadar

Exploring Zadar’s Islands: A Private Boat Tour That Combines Comfort, Authenticity, and Relaxation

Taking a boat trip around Zadar’s islands offers an excellent way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and dive into Croatia’s stunning coastal scenery. This private four-hour tour, offered by Kokolomarine, promises an authentic experience aboard a traditional 9-meter wooden boat. It’s designed for travelers seeking a relaxing, personalized exploration of three nearby islands with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the scenery.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on intimacy and flexibility — it feels less like a cookie-cutter cruise and more like a bespoke adventure. The inclusion of refreshing drinks, snorkeling gear, and a comfortable traditional boat makes for a laid-back experience that emphasizes comfort and authenticity. One potential consideration is the limited duration; four hours means you’ll want to be efficient with your time if you’re eager to explore more islands or engage in additional activities.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, authentic local charm, and a small-group setting. If you’re looking for a memorable, personalized day on the water with a knowledgeable guide, this trip could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Traditional wooden boat adds a genuine Croatian touch to your trip.
• Relaxing Pace: The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and island visits at your own pace.
• Small Group: Private tour ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Includes Refreshments: Drinks are plentiful, and snorkeling gear is provided, enhancing your comfort and fun.
• Historical Highlights: Visiting islands like Galevac with a 15th-century monastery adds cultural interest.
• Value for Money: At $58 per person, the tour offers a rich, personalized experience with all essentials included.

Discovering the Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Croatian Island Adventure

This private boat trip begins with a convenient meeting point at Gas Station Ina in Zadar. From there, you’ll hop aboard a traditional, comfortable wooden vessel, giving you an immediate sense of authenticity and connection to the region’s seafaring heritage. The boat’s size — around 9 meters — strikes a perfect balance, spacious enough for comfort but intimate enough for a personal experience.

First Stop: Oljak Island

Your first destination is Oljak, a tiny inhabited island with only 29 residents. Covering just 0.39 km², it’s the smallest permanently inhabited Croatian island. You’ll love the charm of this quiet spot, perfect for a quick stroll or just soaking in the peaceful vibe. The fact that it’s so small and quiet makes it feel like discovering a secret, away from the crowds.

Second Stop: Galevac Island

Next, the tour takes you to Galevac, an uninhabited island with a fascinating historical twist — a 15th-century monastery from the time of medieval Croatia. It’s a photographer’s dream, with crumbling stone walls overgrown with greenery and a rugged coastline that invites exploration. Though uninhabited, its historical ruins lend a sense of timelessness and mystery, giving you a glimpse of Croatia’s layered past.

Swimming and Snorkeling Opportunities

Throughout the tour, you’ll have multiple chances to swim in crystal-clear waters and snorkel over the vibrant marine life. Reviewers highlight how much they appreciated these moments — “time for swimming/snorkelling and time on one of the islands” was a favorite for many. Snorkeling masks and snorkels are provided on board, so you can focus on enjoying the underwater world without extra fuss.

Optional Additional Stop: A Beautiful Bay

Depending on your preferences and timing, your skipper — Franny, as many reviews suggest — can take you to a lovely bay for a final swim or relax before heading back to Zadar. Flexibility is a key part of this trip, allowing you to tailor your experience and maximize your enjoyment.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

The price of $58 per person covers quite a bit: fuel, snorkeling gear, and a cooler with ice for your food and drinks. The inclusion of fuel ensures no hidden costs, and the cooler makes picnicking on the boat straightforward. Reviewers mention the abundance of drinks, which keeps the relaxed vibe going without the need to worry about hydration.

Snorkel masks and tubes are on board for exploring the underwater world at multiple stops, adding a layer of adventure for those inclined. The tour’s overall value lies in the personalized service, intimate setting, and the chance to see some of Croatia’s lesser-known islands.

The Experience Provider: A Closer Look at Kokolomarine

Kokolomarine has crafted a tour that balances tradition, comfort, and authenticity. Their approach is evident in the well-maintained, traditionally styled boat and the friendly, knowledgeable guide, Franny, who’s praised for being both relaxed and informative. According to reviews, Franny’s ability to share insights about the stops, combined with her friendly demeanor, makes the experience even better.

Why This Tour Can Be a Great Choice

If you’re someone who values authentic local experiences and prefers smaller, private groups over large, crowded tours, this trip hits the right notes. The mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and personal touches — like flexible stops and a traditional boat — makes it a worthwhile outing. It’s particularly suited to travelers who want a laid-back yet memorable day on the water, with the chance to swim, snorkel, and relax without feeling rushed.

For families or small groups, the private aspect allows for a tailored experience — whether it’s more swimming, exploring ruins, or just soaking up the sun. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides but prefer a relaxed, informal atmosphere.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat trip is best for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed, and personalized experience of Croatia’s islands. It’s perfect if you’re after a calm, scenic cruise with plenty of swimming and snorkeling, all wrapped in a traditional Croatian package. The flexible itinerary and intimate setting make it an excellent choice for small groups, couples, or families wanting to create a memorable day without the crowds.

While the four-hour duration might not suit those eager for extensive island-hopping or a full-day adventure, it offers a very manageable, high-value experience. The inclusion of refreshing drinks, snorkeling gear, and historical highlights ensures you come away with both relaxation and a taste of local history.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately four hours, starting from Zadar and covering visits to three islands with plenty of time for swimming and exploring.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is at Gas Station Ina in Zadar, and the tour concludes back at the same location.

What’s included in the price?
Fuel, snorkeling masks and snorkels, and a cooler with ice for food and drinks are included. You can enjoy unlimited drinks during the trip.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible. For example, if you want to spend more time swimming or visiting a specific site, your skipper can accommodate your wishes, weather permitting.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s an excellent option for families, especially since children enjoy the swimming and the relaxed pace. The small group setting also makes it a safe environment.

How many people typically join?
Since it’s a private tour, the group size depends on your party, but it’s designed for small groups or private parties, ensuring an intimate experience.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot without payment upfront, and there’s a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

This private boat tour around Zadar offers a fantastic blend of relaxation, authenticity, and scenic beauty that fits well into a Croatian coastal adventure. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, cultural insights, or simply a day to unwind by the sea, this trip provides a memorable, well-rounded experience.