Zadar Islands Boat Tour: Swim, Snorkel & Island Walks

Summary

Swim and wander Zadar’s islands by boat with local flavors

You’ll board in Zadar with local refreshments and set out to swim at Ugljan’s Frnaza cove before exploring Galevac’s monastery or relaxing at Jaz beach with a drink in hand. Osljak offers peaceful walks or more snorkeling before you drift back toward town feeling sun-warmed and content—the kind of day that lingers long after salt leaves your skin.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the dock because I got distracted by a dog in a tiny sailor hat (not kidding—his name was Max). Our skipper, Luka, just grinned and waved us over like it happened all the time. The boat smelled faintly of sunscreen and something citrusy—maybe from the welcome drinks he handed out as we clambered aboard. There was a bit of nervous laughter when someone realized they’d forgotten their towel, but Luka just shrugged and said, “Sea dries you faster anyway.” He had that easy Zadar confidence. We set off from Fosa harbor and the city shrank behind us while Velebit’s mountains looked like they were floating above the water. I kept thinking about how blue everything felt—sky, sea, even people’s shirts.

First stop was Frnaza cove on Ugljan. It took maybe 20 minutes? Hard to say—I lost track watching the sunlight flicker off the water. The cove itself was quiet except for some distant gulls and a couple of kids giggling as they tried to snorkel for the first time. Luka tossed us some gear (I still managed to get my mask on upside down) and pointed out where the water was shallowest. There was this salty tang in the air mixed with pine from somewhere nearby. After swimming around pretending I was better at snorkeling than I am, we dried off on deck with cold beer—three each if you wanted them—or juice for anyone skipping alcohol.

Galevac island came next—a short hop away. Some of us wandered up to St Paul’s Monastery while others just flopped onto Jaz beach’s soft sand. I tried saying “Galevac” properly; Luka laughed so hard he nearly dropped his phone. The monastery bells rang once while we were there—just one clear note—and it made me pause for a second longer than I expected. There’s something about old stone buildings surrounded by so much bright light that makes you feel small in a good way.

Last stop: Osljak. The whole island is basically a walking path wrapped around olive trees and low stone walls. I walked half of it barefoot until I realized how warm the stones were underfoot—like stepping on sunbaked bread crusts (weird image but true). Some folks went back in for another swim or more snorkeling; I sat on a rock watching little fish dart around my toes. On the way back to Zadar, everyone got quiet for a bit—the kind of silence where you’re just tired-happy and letting your skin dry in the wind.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half-day boat tour of Zadar islands

• Receive welcome refreshments on board
• Depart from Zadar Fosa harbour
• Travel 20 minutes to Frnaza bay, Ugljan Island
• Swim and snorkel at Frnaza bay for 1 hour
• Travel 15 minutes to Galevac Island
• Explore Galevac and visit St Paul Monestery
• Swim and snorkel around Galevac Island
• Travel 10 minutes to Osljak Island
• Walk circular footpath on Osljak Island
• Swim and snorkel at Osljak Island
• Travel 15 minutes back to Zadar
• Enjoy panoramic views of Zadar and archipelagos

Top questions

How long does the Zadar boat tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from departure to return.

Are refreshments included on this boat trip?

Yes, welcome refreshments are included along with snacks, three beers or glasses of wine per person, juice upon request, and unlimited water.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided for each guest at no extra cost.

Which islands are visited during this tour?

The tour visits Ugljan (Frnaza cove), Galevac (with St Paul Monastery), and Osljak islands.

Is there an option for private groups?

Yes, private groups can be accommodated and may arrange use of the onboard barbecue.

Can children join this Zadar boat tour?

Yes, children are welcome; there are shallow beaches suitable for kids and non-swimmers.

Are pets allowed onboard?

Yes, pets are welcome on this boat tour.

Does the boat have toilet facilities?

Yes, there is a toilet onboard for guest use.

Where does the tour depart from?

The boat departs from Zadar Fosa harbor.

Is there an extra fee not included in booking?

The docking fee is not included; it's 10 euros per adult and 5 euros per child up to 11 years old.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Zadar Fosa harbor with welcome drinks and snacks (beer, wine or juice), use of all snorkeling equipment at no extra charge, plenty of space to sunbathe on deck plus access to toilet facilities onboard. For private groups, barbecue use can be arranged ahead of time; fuel costs are covered but docking fees are paid separately onsite before returning in the afternoon.