Three islands, zero rush, all water time. This private boat tour from Zadar is a practical way to see Ugljan’s coves without the usual crowd chaos, and you’ll spend the day swimming and snorkeling in calm, scenic spots. Two things I really like are the homemade olive-oil anchovies (marinated and salted) served right on the water, and the calm, flexible vibe steered by Captain Goran.

One thing to consider: it’s a boat day, so you’ll want decent mobility. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and there’s no hint of ramps or easy shore access for everyone.

Key highlights at a glance

• Three islands on one outing: Ugljan area, plus Galevac and Ošljak, with multiple swims planned in
• Snorkeling gear included: you’re given equipment so you can actually use the stops
• Food that feels local and personal: marinated/salted anchovies in homemade olive oil, plus other island snacks
• A car-free finale: Kostanj is a sandy beach in a cove you reach only by boat
• Private pacing: you decide how long to stay at stops, unlike big-group tours

Zadar’s Three Islands by private boat: the real point

This tour is built for people who like the coast, not just photos of it. From Port Foša, you go out with a small private group and you get repeated chances to jump in—short swims, snorkel sessions, and then a longer beach stop at the end.

Captain Goran’s approach is simple: find good water, stop where the scenery is worth it, and give you time to enjoy it. The boat itself is comfortable for a 4-hour trip, and the day stays relaxed instead of turning into a checklist.

And yes, the food is a big deal here. You’re not just handed a snack; you’re treated to a taste of island flavors while you’re literally surrounded by the sea.

The flow from Port Foša to Kostanj beach

Your day starts at Port Foša in Zadar (Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6). After an easy sightseeing cruise out on the water, the route is designed to blend history, quiet shoreline time, and multiple swim moments.

The tour is around 4 hours total, and that length is one of its strengths. You get enough time for real ocean time without feeling like you’ve lost an entire day to transportation.

Stop 1: Galevac (Školji) for monastery views and calm water

Galevac is where the pace starts to soften. You’ll make a short run to the islet and visit the 15th-century monastery of St. Paul. Even if you’re not a big church person, the value here is the setting: peaceful surroundings and a sense of place before you go back to water activities.

You also get an aperitif with guided time plus free time to explore at your own rhythm. Then it’s straight into the fun: swimming and snorkeling with provided equipment (that snorkeling window is about 20 minutes here).

What to know going in: this is not a long hike or a fortress tour. It’s more like a gentle introduction to the area, followed by a practical water break.

Stop 2: Preko for shoreline variety and island tasting

Next comes Preko, a break point where the route gives you options. There’s guided time, plus free time to wander and enjoy the stop. You’ll also have more chances for swimming and snorkeling, and there’s a clear food moment here too: local tastings (including the kinds of island products that make this day feel different from generic boat snacks).

Preko works well because it interrupts the “pure island” feel with a more lived-in coastal touch. If you like seeing how locals fit the sea into everyday life, this stop helps.

The snorkeling window here is shorter than the longest beach segment later, but it’s timed so you’re still energized and not rushed.

Stop 3: Ošljak for a longer swim + local snacks

Then you head to Ošljak, where the day shifts toward pure relaxation. This is one of the best parts if you want time to linger. You get a guided component, then free time, and you’re given about an hour here to swim, snorkel, and snack.

Local snacks are part of the value. It’s not just drinks and bread; it’s part of the island flavor story that repeats across the day.

Possible drawback: because the time here is longer, you’ll want to manage your energy. If you burn through all your sun time right away, you might feel a little toastier by the time the beach stop arrives.

Stop 4: Kostanj, the car-free sandy beach finale

Finally, the tour lands at Kostanj, a sandy beach in a cove you can’t reach by car. That matters. It helps keep the shoreline calmer and makes the stop feel special in a way that’s hard to replicate from land.

You’ll have time for photos and then a longer stretch for swimming and snorkeling (about 50 minutes). If you want a last “out on the water” hit before heading back to Zadar, this is the money time.

Even better: this ending feels like a reward rather than just another stop.

What you’re really paying for: homemade anchovies in olive oil

The headline food is the one thing people bring up again and again: marinated and salted anchovies in homemade olive oil. That combination is classic Dalmatian-island flavor, but the real twist is that it’s prepared in a personal, homemade way.

You’ll also encounter other island snacks and bread-type pairings through the day. The pattern is consistent: you get salt-and-oil bites, then you get drinks, then you get back into the water.

Drinks on board

You should expect food and drinks as part of the experience. Reviews describe options like beer, wine, cola, and water served aboard. In practical terms, that means you’re not rationing your hydration between swim sessions.

If you’re the kind of person who wants a cold drink after the first swim, you’ll like the way the day is paced.

Captain Goran’s style: private pacing without awkward formality

The tour is private, and that shows in the feel. With a small group, you can set your own priorities—more time on a beach, more time in the water, or just a slower, chatty cruise.

Captain Goran is consistently described as warm and respectful. He also adapts. On some days, the group decides where to spend time, rather than being locked into strict stop lengths.

There’s also a practical touch: you’re getting a live English guide, and the explanations you get are tied to the places you’re actually visiting, not generic facts.

Small bonus details that make a difference:

• A speaker is available, and you can connect your own music (handy if your group wants a soundtrack)
• The boat setup supports comfort for short transitions between stops

And one more thing: when something goes wrong, like a lost item left on the boat, the host effort matters. People describe him as proactive about helping after the tour. That’s not just nice service—it adds peace of mind for a day you’re trying to relax in.

Snorkeling time: what you can expect (and what to bring)

Snorkeling equipment is included, so you don’t need to hunt gear in Zadar. The stops are timed so you get real opportunities—first at Galevac, then repeated swim-snorkel moments along the way, with the longest water time at Kostanj and a full hour at Ošljak.

But here’s the practical part: you should still come ready. Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel. If you forget the towel, you’ll end up improvising.

You also want to be comfortable getting on and off a boat. Since it’s not listed as suitable for wheelchair users, the shore access can’t be assumed to be easy or step-free.

One more item: bikes aren’t allowed, so don’t plan to cycle between coastal points as part of the day.

Price and value: when $282 per group makes sense

The price is $282 per group (up to 5 people) for about 4 hours. At face value, that’s more than a public cruise ticket.

But private boat tours pay for a few things that are hard to get elsewhere:

• You control the pace (you’re not fighting for time at a swim spot)
• The stops are spaced so you actually use the water time
• Food and drinks are included, and the anchovies in olive oil are a highlight, not an afterthought
• Snorkeling equipment is provided, which usually costs extra if you’re renting it yourself

If you’re traveling as a couple or a small family, it’s the kind of price that starts to feel fair fast. You’re essentially buying the convenience of not sharing a boat with a larger crowd, while still getting multiple swim moments.

If you’re solo, it may feel steep. But if you can fill your group size, the value balance shifts toward a yes.

When this tour is a perfect fit

This is a strong match if you want:

• Multiple swim moments in a short day
• A private, relaxed pace instead of a regimented group schedule
• Real local food flavors while you’re on the sea—especially the anchovies and olive oil
• A captain who will explain what you’re seeing around Zadar’s islands

It’s also a good idea for celebrating. There’s mention of organizing smaller birthday parties, which makes sense for a private boat setting where you can bring your own mood and music.

You’ll probably enjoy it most if you’re okay with an itinerary that’s flexible. This isn’t a rigid museum tour. It’s a “spend time where it feels best today” kind of day.

A few practical considerations before you book

If you’re sensitive to heat, plan around sun exposure. There are multiple swim periods, but you’ll also spend time on the water when the sun can feel strong.

It’s also not suitable for people with epilepsy, and it’s not set up for wheelchair users. If that affects you or someone in your group, you’ll want to skip or seek another format.

Finally, expect that boat days can feel slightly weather-dependent in timing and comfort. One review notes the host stayed in touch ahead of time when weather looked uncertain, which is exactly what you want—clear communication and no last-minute surprises.

Should you book the Zadar Three Islands private boat tour?

I’d book it if your ideal Zadar day is simple: get out on the water, swim and snorkel more than once, and eat something genuinely local while you’re there. The combination of private pacing, included snorkeling gear, and homemade anchovies in olive oil makes it feel like more than a generic coastal cruise.

I’d hesitate if you need fully accessible shore access or if you want a land-heavy sightseeing day with minimal water time. This is a boat tour, and the best parts happen when you treat it like one.

If you can travel with up to 5 people and you’re excited about swim stops and island food, this is one of the most “worth the cost” choices around Zadar.

FAQ

Where does the tour start and meet?

The meeting point is Port Foša in Zadar (Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6).

How long is the boat tour?

The duration is 4 hours.

What islands and stops are included?

The tour includes time around Ugljan, Galevac (Školji), Ošljak, and finishes at the sandy beach Kostanj.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included as part of the tour.

What food and drinks are provided?

The tour includes food and drinks, including local island products like marinated and salted anchovies in homemade olive oil and additional local snacks.

Is there a guided component?

Yes. There is a live tour guide in English, with guided time at stops along the way.

Is this a private tour or a group tour?

It’s a private group tour, priced for a group up to 5 people.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel.

Is it suitable for wheelchair users or people with epilepsy?

No. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users and not suitable for people with epilepsy.

Is cancellation flexible?

Cancellation is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You Might Also Enjoy

Experience Zadar Archipelago with private Antares sailing tourFrom Zadar: Plitvice Lakes National Park TourDaysailing & SUP experienceFrom Zadar: Krka Waterfalls Day Tour with Boat Ride & Guide