Zadar speedboat days feel like instant vacation. I like that you get two Aperol Spritz per person plus unlimited water while the Adriatic whips past your seat.

I also like the pace: anchored swims with snorkeling gear followed by short island stretches for walking and photos. One drawback to plan for: there’s no toilet on the boat, and the ride can splash you if you sit toward the back.

Key things you’ll notice fast

• Two Aperol Spritz per person: included, not an add-on, and served while you’re in full island-hopping mode.
• Small group (max 12): it feels friendly and semi-private, not a big cattle-boat day.
• Snorkeling equipment + life vests: easy gear setup so you spend time in the water, not shopping first.
• Stops that adapt to conditions: you’ll get swim time either way, even if the exact island choice changes.
• No toilet on board: pack smart (dry bag, towel, and timing), because you’ll be in swimsuit mode.

Why this Zadar speedboat trip feels worth the half-day

From the water, Zadar’s coast looks different fast. This tour keeps things simple: speedboat hops, a couple of anchored swims, and then short island time you can actually enjoy. You’re not stuck on one beach all day, and you’re not racing through three towns with no time to breathe.

The best part is the balance. You get planned swim stops (with gear), plus time to wander when you’re done with the water. And because the group stays small, the captain/skipper can actually manage the day without herding people.

Also, the included drinks matter more than you’d think. Two Aperol Spritz each turns the day from just scenic into summer vacation energy—cold, sweet, and very on-theme for the Adriatic.

Finding the boat near the bridge (Ul. Jurja Barakovića 7)

Meeting is easy if you arrive a bit early. The speedboat is right next to the bridge on the side with the entrance to the Old Town. Look for the boat named Abaris 23.

Your start and end point is the same address: Ul. Jurja Barakovića 7. Since the tour ends back at the meeting spot, you don’t need a second pickup plan later.

Practical tip: the tour doesn’t include transportation to the meeting point. If you’re staying in/near the Old Town, you’re probably fine on foot. If you’re farther out, plan your ride so you don’t cut it close—boarding times matter on a boat day.

The Aperol Spritz factor: why included drinks are a real value

At $33 per person, this price works because it includes more than just the ride. You’re getting two Aperol Spritz per person, plus unlimited water, snorkeling equipment, and safety gear.

That’s a big deal in Croatia, where boat days and drinks can add up quickly. Even if you only drink one spritz, the “included” part usually saves you from spending extra money later just to keep the day feeling relaxed.

You’ll also notice the vibe onboard. There’s music playing and the mood is kept light. In some groups, the skipper even let people help with the music, which is fun if you’re traveling with friends and want the day to feel personal.

The boat ride: spacious, fast, and not always a quiet commute

This is a speedboat adventure, so expect speed and a bit of motion. The boat is set up for comfort, with shaded areas and a sound system, so you’re not baking in direct sun the whole time.

Some departures run smooth. Others have choppier stretches. That’s part of the deal with open-water hopping out of Zadar—but it’s also why the day feels lively.

One very real comfort note from past experiences: if you sit toward the back, you might get splashed. Bring a dry bag for your phone/wallet or keep them in sealed storage. And if you’re bringing a camera, treat it like it’s going to meet the sea.

Stop 1: the anchored swim + snorkeling time that sets the tone

The first water stop is built for getting in quickly. You’ll spend about 1 hour swimming and snorkeling at a location with clear, inviting water.

What makes this stop work: you’re not easing into the day with just a short dip. You get enough time to put on the gear, try snorkeling if it’s your first time, and still have room to sunbathe afterward. People who were new to snorkeling have said it felt easy and that the water made it memorable.

If you want an easy first step, anchor near where the boat is positioned and follow the skipper’s guidance. Snorkeling success often comes down to starting from the safest, most controlled spot.

Island village time: short walks, coffee or gelato, and beach breaks

After the first swim, you’ll head to an island stop with more “Mediterranean day off” energy. You’ll dock at a charming village where you can slow down: cobblestone strolls, photos, and time to grab a coffee or gelato.

This is where the tour becomes more than just water sports. The walking time gives your body a break and gives you context for what you’re actually seeing from the boat.

You’ll also have the chance to swim again at or near a sandy beach at some stops. The tour is designed so you keep getting water time, but you’re never only doing one thing.

The second swim stop: what changes when sea conditions shift

Between island stops, the crew adapts. Depending on sea conditions, timing, and group preferences, you may visit a secluded bay for swimming and relaxing. Or you might go to a fishing village with a slightly different feel.

In one described route, the islands included a very small Croatian island with about 10 residents. In another, there was a spot where you could swim from one area toward another because the water was very shallow—so you get that “floating across” feeling when conditions allow.

This flexibility is a strength. If the sea is rough, the skipper can adjust the plan so you still get water time and not just expensive travel time. That’s why it’s worth following the skipper’s instructions at each stop: they’re shaping your day in real time.

Secret stop #2: street food, short shopping, and another reset

The final island stop is a shorter window—about 45 minutes once you’re there. That timing shapes what you can do. It’s great for quick sightseeing, a bit of wandering, and snacks.

This is where street food can come into play. If you’re the type who likes to taste your way through places, this stop is built for that quick-hit experience: walk, grab something local, and then jump back in if you still have energy.

Some days, the last stop includes Preko. One group noted that after finishing the tour, they were able to catch a ferry back to the mainland if they wanted extra time on the island. If your route includes Preko, it’s worth checking what return options look like on the spot.

Onboard atmosphere: music, safety checks, and the skipper’s personality

A lot of boat tours are similar on paper. This one often feels different because of the guide/skipper dynamic and the small-group setup.

Skippers have been described as friendly and charming, and you may see real care in how they handle swim stops and timing. Some named guides from past departures include Greg, Mario, and Josef. You’ll also hear about onboard dogs being a highlight—names like Ricky and Vicky popped up in descriptions, which gives the day a warm, quirky touch.

Music onboard helps too. When you’re bouncing across the water, it keeps the ride from feeling like a transit penalty. It’s more like a moving lounge.

What to pack (and the one safety mindset that helps)

You’ll want the basics because you’ll be in swim mode for much of the day:

• Sunglasses and sun hat
• Swimwear and a towel
• Sunscreen
• Change of clothes for after
• Cash for docking fees

Two important “real-world” notes:

• There’s no toilet on the boat, so plan your timing before you leave shore.
• Seas can have hazards. One description included a warning about stepping on sea urchins if you swim too far from the boat. Stay mindful near where you enter the water, especially if you’re new to snorkeling.

Price and logistics: how to budget the real cost

The headline price is $33 per person for a 4-hour experience, but the real budget has one extra line item. Docking fees are 10 EUR per adult and 5 EUR per child, paid in total for all stops.

So your all-in cost is roughly the tour price plus those docking fees. Exact currency math will depend on your exchange rate, but you can think of it as a small add-on rather than a surprise big expense.

Where this still feels like value:

• Boat trip and skipper
• Guide
• Snorkeling equipment + safety gear
• Two Aperol Spritz per person
• Unlimited water

If you were paying for a boat ride + snorkeling gear + drinks separately, you’d likely spend more than the total package.

Who this speedboat tour fits best

This is a strong choice if you want:

• a half-day plan that’s active but not exhausting
• lots of water time with structured stops
• a small-group setting with easy vibes
• included drinks and a chilled pace

It’s also a good “first boat day in Croatia” option if you don’t want to rent gear or build your own island plan from scratch.

It may not suit you if:

• you need wheelchair accessibility (it’s not suitable for wheelchair users)
• you hate boats in motion or you’re very sensitive to splashes
• you can’t handle a trip without a toilet onboard

And pets aren’t allowed.

Should you book it? My practical take

If you’re in Zadar and you want one trip that gives you water, views, and a relaxed schedule without a long travel day, I think this is a smart booking. The included spritzes make it feel like a proper vacation day, and the snorkeling + swim structure keeps it from being just “sit and look.”

Book it if your idea of a good time is getting into the Adriatic, hopping between islands, and still having enough land time to wander a village. Skip it if you absolutely need toilet access on the water or you’re expecting calm, slow sightseeing the whole time.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the Zadar island hopping speedboat adventure?

The tour duration is 4 hours. Starting times vary, so you’ll need to check availability for your preferred departure.

What’s included in the price?

It includes the boat trip, skipper, guide, snorkeling equipment, life vests/safety equipment, 2 Aperol Spritz per person, and unlimited water.

Are docking fees included?

No. Docking fees are not included: 10 EUR per adult and 5 EUR per child in total for all stops. Bring cash.

Is there a toilet on the boat?

No. There is no toilet on the boat.

Where do I meet the boat?

Meet at Ul. Jurja Barakovića 7, next to the bridge on the side where the Old Town entrance is located. Look for the boat Abaris 23.

Who should avoid this tour?

It’s not suitable for wheelchair users. Pets aren’t allowed, and it’s not suitable for babies under 1 year.

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