Snorkeling, Unlimited Wine

Set out from Zadar on a luxury boat tour of the nearby islands, with stops to swim and snorkel. Unlimited wine is included on board for the 3 to 4 hour trip.

Overview

Three islands, one compact speedboat, and a skipper who handles everything while you swim, walk and sip local wine. This half-day trip from Zadar's main pier is built around short hops rather than long crossings, so most of the time is spent off the boat rather than on it. The run starts with a sightseeing cruise along the coast, then works through Ošljak, an unnamed third stop the operator keeps as a surprise, and Preko, before returning to the waterfront.

At each island you get free time rather than a fixed program. Snorkeling gear travels on board, so you can swim at every stop, or skip the water entirely and explore on foot. In Preko there is time for coffee, shopping and a wander. Both a guide and a skipper are part of the crew, and the listing promises unlimited local wine throughout.

The trip suits travellers who want a taste of island life without committing a full day. Reviewers repeatedly single out the guides as friendly and knowledgeable, and one reviewer felt the first stop alone was worth the visit. If you want long snorkeling sessions, note that some reviewers wished for more in-water time, since the stops are shared between swimming, walking and relaxing.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at Zadar RivaThe meeting point is the main pier on Zadar's waterfront, Obala kralja Petra Krešimira IV 9. Look for a guide in a white polo shirt. Pickup is not included.
2. Sightseeing cruiseA 15-minute cruise along the coast before the first island.
3. Ošljak stopAround 80 minutes for a break, photos, a walk or hike, swimming and snorkeling.
4. Cruise to hidden stopA 10-minute crossing to a surprise third island, kept undisclosed by the operator.
5. Hidden gem stop45 minutes for photos, swimming, snorkeling and marine life viewing.
6. Preko stopOne hour of free time after a 10-minute cruise. Options include coffee, shopping, walking, swimming and snorkeling.
7. Return cruiseA 20-minute cruise back, with two drop-off points: the starting address on the Riva and Zadar Riva Ferry Pier.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will make the day smoother, from the cash-only island fee to what to pack.

• Bring swim gear. Pack a swimsuit, towel and sun hat, as one reviewer specifically advises. Snorkeling equipment is provided on board, so you only need your own basics. The operator also suggests bringing drinks.
• Swim or explore. Swimming is optional at every stop. One reviewer described going in October and choosing to explore on land instead, so you can shape the day to your preference. Each island offers walking and photo opportunities if the water does not appeal.
• Guides set the tone. Reviewers across many trips describe the skippers as friendly, informative and easy to talk to, with one noting you can tell the job is done with passion. The listing includes both a guide and a skipper as part of the tour.
• Cash for the fee. The Protected Area Fee is not in the ticket price and must be paid in cash, at 10 EUR per person. Budget for this before you board. Unlimited local wine is included in the tour itself.
• Plan parking ahead. The listing warns that arriving by car means serious parking problems near the pier. Keep this in mind when planning how to reach the meeting point.
• No toilet aboard. The boat has no toilet. Toilets are available only at the last stop, Preko. Keep this in mind if travelling with children or anyone who needs frequent facilities.

Common issues. The main practical drawbacks come straight from the listing: no toilet on the boat, toilets only at the final stop, a 10 EUR per person Protected Area Fee payable in cash on top of the ticket, and difficult parking if you drive to the pier. Some reviewers also felt the snorkeling time was too short, since each stop splits its minutes between swimming, walking and relaxing. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so late changes can cost you the booking.

Common Questions