Speedboats and tiny islands, in one half-day. Off Zadar, you hop between Ošljak and Otok Galevac, with snorkeling time plus a relaxed final stop in Preko.

I love how this runs like a tight plan without feeling rushed: small group size (up to 12) means your guide is close enough to actually answer questions. I also like the practical inclusions, especially the snorkeling kit and WiFi on board, so you can stay connected while you’re in transit.

One thing to plan for: there are docking fees (about €10 per person), and Ošljak can be rocky near the water. Bring good footwear and don’t assume every “beach” is a sandy step right down into the sea.

Key things I’d circle before you book

• Three islands in about four hours with enough time to see, walk, and swim
• Ošljak (the smallest inhabited Adriatic island) with a short, not-difficult climb for big views
• Otok Galevac snorkeling anchor time plus a walk through forest and historical spots
• Saint Paul the Hermit monastery museum on the island stop
• Small-group format (max 12) for calmer pacing and more guide attention
• Snorkeling equipment + on-board WiFi included, so you travel lighter

A Half-Day Speedboat Route That Actually Feels Like an Island Day

This tour is built for people who want a real taste of the Adriatic islands without surrendering half the day to transit. You start in Zadar, then you move by fast boat to three different places offshore—Ošljak, Otok Galevac, and Preko—each with a different rhythm.

The main reason I like this format is balance. You’re not stuck only sightseeing from the water. You get a land moment on Ošljak, time to swim and snorkel at Galevac, and then a proper free hour at Preko where you can wander at your own pace.

It’s also a good size group. With a max of 12, the boat doesn’t feel like a cattle line, and your guide can point out details without rushing you off the dock.

Price and Docking Fees: What You’re Really Paying

The advertised price is $36.30 per person for about four hours. That’s a fair deal if you compare it to what speedboat access usually costs, especially when you’re getting snorkeling gear included and a guide who keeps the schedule working smoothly.

Do budget one extra line item: docking fees of €10 per person. It’s not huge, but it’s the kind of add-on that can surprise you if you’re only looking at the main price.

Also consider the drinks question carefully. The tour details don’t list alcohol as an inclusion, but some people have reported limited included drinks on board (often water and a small shot of local liquor). If you care about a specific type of drink, I’d plan to bring what you want or plan to buy in Preko.

Where You Meet in Zadar and How to Time Your Arrival

You meet at Zadar Boat Tours, Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6, 23000 Zadar, and you return to the same spot. The experience runs about 4 hours, so treat it like a real timed activity rather than a casual drop-in.

You’ll want to arrive early enough to handle check-in without stress. A good rule of thumb is to show up 20–30 minutes before the start, especially in seasons when sidewalks, docks, and traffic around Zadar can be a bit of a shuffle.

The tour uses a mobile ticket, and it’s offered in English. It’s also listed as near public transportation, which helps if you’re not driving in.

Stop 1: Ošljak, the Tiny Island With the Big-View Climb

Ošljak is the star stop for people who like places that feel genuinely small. This is described as the smallest inhabited island in the Adriatic, with about 35 inhabitants. The island keeps a traditional way of life—olives, fishing, and daily routines that still feel local.

What you actually do here is simple and doable. You’ll dock, then you can head up toward a viewpoint. The walk to the top takes about 15 minutes and is described as not difficult, which makes it realistic even if you’re not an all-day hiker.

What makes Ošljak special

• You get a “from-the-top” view over the wider Zadar area and the Zadar canal.
• It feels quieter than most day-tour stops, because it’s not built for large crowds.
• There’s a chance to see beaches and coastal details up close, not just from the boat.

A real consideration: rocky water edges

One drawback: the “beach” experience isn’t uniform. Some spots are more rocky than sandy, and getting right down to the water may not be easy everywhere. If your snorkeling hopes depend on stepping in easily, bring that expectation down a notch.

Practical tip: wear shoes you’re comfortable walking in. People also note that there’s no on-island shopping or restaurants here, so treat Ošljak as a walk-and-views stop, not a snack stop.

You’ll have about 1 hour 20 minutes total at Ošljak, which is enough to climb, enjoy the view, and still have a bit of slack time.

Stop 2: Otok Galevac and the Saint Paul the Hermit Museum

Otok Galevac (often tied to the area known as Školjić) is where the tour turns into a classic Adriatic swim day—still with culture and nature baked in.

The water time you’re paying for

You’ll anchor for about 45 minutes. That gives you time to put on the snorkeling gear, swim around at the surface, and enjoy the underwater world in clear water. Snorkeling equipment is included, so you’re not wasting vacation energy figuring out gear rentals.

If you’re traveling with kids or you’re not a confident swimmer, this is usually a better setup than a long open-water session, because the boat is basically your “home base” while you explore.

The land moments on Galevac

After the water time, you can walk through the forest area on the island, explore historical sights, and visit a monastery museum dedicated to Saint Paul the Hermit.

That museum stop matters because it adds a layer you don’t always get on sea tours. You’re not only chasing beaches—you’re learning why this island world mattered historically and why the monastery is remembered.

You also get time for quiet beach relaxation. People describe this as calm, untouched-feeling shoreline time.

You’ll have 45 minutes here as a whole stop, so don’t plan to do everything at once. Pick one: museum + stroll, or museum + snorkeling, or a slower pace with beach time.

Stop 3: Preko, Your 1-Hour Local Pause by the Sea

Preko is the final stop, and it’s the one that shifts from “island wonder” to “island life.” It’s described as a small place with a big soul, known for beaches and for places to eat along the water.

You get about 1 hour here. That hour is short, but it’s long enough to:

• walk the shoreline area
• find a simple lunch or snack
• sit and reset after the earlier walking and water time

A realistic expectation

Some people felt the last stop could feel a bit rushed, mainly because time limits exist and boats have to keep the return schedule. So if your priority is a long meal, arrive ready to order fast. If your priority is a walk and a photo stop, Preko is great for that.

This is also the place to buy things you didn’t bring, including extra drinks if that’s part of your plan.

Snorkeling Here: What 45 Minutes Means for You

Forty-five minutes sounds short on paper. On the water, it’s usually a solid chunk because:

• the boat anchors you in one area
• you’re not paddling between spots for long stretches
• you can snorkel, then rest on the waterline or return to the boat between swims

Since snorkeling equipment is included, you only need to show up with the basics: a towel, swimwear you can move in, and some way to keep your gear from getting sandy.

Water conditions matter. On days with rougher seas, you’ll want to be mindful when getting in and out of the boat. The good news is that people report the crew manages choppy moments well, and the boat ride still stays smooth for most of the experience.

If you get seasick easily, I’d take it seriously. This is a speedboat, so you’ll feel motion more than you would on a big ferry.

The Guide Experience: Small Group, Big Attention to Detail

This tour’s best asset is the human side: you’re not stuck with a passive audio guide. Your guide spends time with you at each stop and gives room for questions. With a maximum of 12 people, explanations don’t get swallowed by crowd noise.

On board, you can also expect a lively vibe. Some people mention music on the boat and playful extras like cake. Even when that doesn’t happen, the “active guide” style is consistent in how people describe the trip: you get story context while still being free to explore.

One practical benefit: guides often point you to good options for what to do in the time you have—especially at the last stop, where you may want help finding something quick to eat.

What to Pack (So You Don’t Turn It Into a Shopping Trip)

Here’s the small packing list that keeps this tour easy:

• towel
• hat
• water
• swimwear (the kind you can wear comfortably under/out of clothes)
• walking shoes (for Ošljak’s climb and uneven rocky edges)
• snorkeling gear is provided, but if you have your own mask and prefer it, you might bring it

If you’re used to “tourists pack a swimsuit last minute,” this is one trip where that habit backfires. You don’t want to spend your precious island time improvising.

Who This Tour Fits Best (and Who Might Want Another Option)

This tour is a great match if you want:

• a half-day speedboat experience from Zadar
• a snorkeling stop without planning complexity
• a short island walk with a viewpoint
• a cultural stop that isn’t just a photo

It also works well for families and mixed ages because the Ošljak climb is short and described as not difficult. Still, the rocky nature of some water access means you should choose footwear carefully.

Who might reconsider?

• If you need a totally sandy, step-right-into-the-water beach experience at every stop, Ošljak may not meet that expectation.
• If you want a long sit-down meal and slow wandering at the last stop, the Preko hour may feel tight.

For most people, that’s exactly why it’s fun: it keeps moving without turning into a full-day grind.

Should You Book This Zadar Island Luxury Speedboat Tour?

If you like your island days to mix sea time + one short walk + one culture stop, I think you’ll be happy with this tour. The price is reasonable for a speedboat route with included snorkeling equipment, and the small group size helps the whole thing feel more personal.

I’d book it if you’re:

• planning a short stay in Zadar
• cruising and want a satisfying sea day without full-day logistics
• excited about snorkeling and quick island exploring

I’d hold off if you’re expecting easy sandy beach access everywhere or you’re planning your day around unlimited drinks. Based on what’s been described, the included drinks are more limited than some people hope, and Ošljak’s shoreline isn’t “one perfect beach.”

FAQ

How long is the Zadar island speedboat tour?

The tour lasts about 4 hours (approx.), with time split across three island stops.

What does the tour cost, and are there extra fees?

The price is $36.30 per person. Docking fees are not included and are listed as 10€ per person in total for all stops.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

What stops are included during the tour?

You’ll stop at Ošljak, Otok Galevac (with the Saint Paul the Hermit monastery museum), and Preko.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

What happens if weather is bad?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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