Zadar Islands: Boat Tour with Aperol Spritz & Snorkeling

Summary

Swim, sip Aperol & wander island villages from Zadar’s old harbor

You’ll leave Zadar’s harbor behind for clear Adriatic waters, pausing to swim or snorkel off Ugljan island before wandering through tiny fishing villages with your local guide. Sip an Aperol Spritz onboard (included), chat with locals or just drift in the sun—and end your day feeling like you’ve actually lived here for a while.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the stone walls of Zadar’s Old Town caught the morning light as we pulled away from Foša harbor—like something out of a film, honestly. Our guide, Marko, had this easy way about him, waving to a fisherman he knew on shore before giving us a quick rundown (I barely heard half of it, distracted by the salty air and all those red-tiled roofs). The engine hummed under our feet and suddenly the city felt far behind. We clinked plastic cups—Aperol Spritz for me—and someone laughed when I tried to pronounce “Ugljan” right. Still can’t say it.

Our first stop was just off Ugljan island. The water looked almost fake—so clear you could see little silver fish darting around even before jumping in. I hesitated (cold!) but ended up floating on my back, eyes closed, listening to someone’s playlist mixing with the slap of waves against the hull. There was snorkel gear onboard if you wanted it; I mostly just drifted and let my mind go quiet for once. Afterward, we dried off in the sun while Marko told us how that next island only has about thirty people living there year-round—hard to picture until you’re actually walking its narrow paths, hearing chickens somewhere behind a stone wall.

I got a coffee in this tiny village café where two old men were arguing over cards (or maybe politics? My Croatian is nonexistent). The pace slowed down so much I nearly forgot we had another stop—a place called Školjić near Preko village. There’s an old church and some kind of monastery collection; I didn’t really “tour” it properly but just liked wandering around with wet hair and sandy feet. Lunch was optional but smelled good—grilled fish wafting out from somewhere close by. We lingered longer than planned because no one seemed in a rush—not even Marko.

By the time we headed back toward Zadar, everyone was quiet in that sun-dazed way you get after swimming and salt air. I kept thinking about that first glimpse of the city walls from the water—how small everything looked from out here. If you want something low-key but real—a day trip from Zadar with swimming, islands, and enough local flavor to make you feel like you belong for a minute—I’d do this boat tour again without thinking twice.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour to islands with swimming

• Board boat at Zadar Foša harbor
• Briefing about the day
• Depart south towards Ugljan island
• View Zadar Old Town from harbor
• Swimming and snorkeling stop
• Explore small inhabited island
• Visit Skoljic near Ugljan island
• Walk around Preko village or lunch

Top questions

How long does the Zadar boat tour last?

The total duration includes transportation between stops; exact timing varies depending on weather and sea conditions.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included during swimming stops.

Are drinks provided during the boat tour?

You get one drink included: choose between Aperol Spritz, Prosecco or water.

Where does the boat depart from in Zadar?

The tour departs from Foša harbor, which is Zadar’s oldest harbor near Old Town.

Do I need to bring cash for lunch?

Lunch is optional at one of the island stops; bringing some cash is recommended if you want to eat there.

Can infants join this boat tour?

Yes, but infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

What happens if weather conditions are bad?

The itinerary may change depending on weather; extra island stops may be added if swimming isn’t ideal.

Is parking available near Foša harbor?

Parking can be difficult near Foša harbor; arriving early is advised if coming by car.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Zadar’s Foša harbor with a local guide at the helm, use of snorkeling gear for swimming stops around Ugljan and nearby islands, plus one drink (Aperol Spritz or Prosecco or water) per person—all wrapped up with plenty of time ashore to explore small villages or grab lunch before heading back in the afternoon.