Zadar Sailing: Private Tour to Ugljan & Ošljak Islands

Summary

Sail Zadar’s islands swim Ošljak taste sea air with a local skipper

You’ll sail from Zadar with a local skipper, feeling the Adriatic breeze as you pass landmarks like the Sea Organ before stopping to swim off Ošljak’s peaceful shore. Explore green Ugljan island or just float in clear water—snorkeling gear included—and enjoy small moments with locals along the way. It’s simple, warm, and leaves you wanting more sea air.

What’s the experience like?

It’s funny how quiet the water feels just outside Zadar. One minute you’re dodging bikes by the Sea Organ, and then suddenly it’s just wind, salt, and that low hum of the boat. Our skipper, Luka, handed us strong coffee in tiny cups — I spilled half of mine when we hit a wave (he laughed and said it happens to everyone). The city faded fast behind us. There was this sharp smell of pine mixed with engine oil and sunscreen. I didn’t expect to feel so far away after only thirty minutes.

We drifted towards Ošljak first — Luka called it the “island with more cats than people.” He wasn’t wrong. The place is tiny, just a cluster of stone houses and tangled gardens facing Ugljan across the channel. We jumped off for a swim; water cold enough to make me gasp but clear as glass. There were old men fixing nets on the shore, barely glancing up except to nod. I tried snorkeling but mostly floated on my back watching clouds scrape by. You can actually hear your own breathing out here.

Ugljan felt bigger and greener — olive trees everywhere, some so old they looked fossilized. Luka pointed out where his uncle used to fish (he claims he still does), and we wandered up a dusty track past fig trees and sleepy dogs. Lunch was an option at one of those family-run places near Preko; we just grabbed bread and cheese from our bag instead because honestly, nobody wanted to leave the water for long. Sun got high, cicadas started up — that relentless summer buzz you only get on these islands.

The ride back was slower somehow. Maybe it was just that feeling you get when you know something good is ending but you’re not quite ready yet. Luka let us steer for a bit — turns out I’m terrible at it but he pretended not to notice. Zadar came back into view all at once: red roofs, church towers, kids shouting by the quay. I still think about that stretch between islands when everything went quiet except for wind and laughter.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sailing and island exploration tour

• Meet at the boat in Zadar
• Sail 30 minutes to Island Ošljak
• Swim and snorkel at Ošljak Island
• Sail to Island Ugljan for sightseeing
• Swim and optional lunch on Ugljan
• Sail 30 minutes back to Zadar

Top questions

How long is the private sailing tour from Zadar?

You can choose between a 4-hour or 8-hour private sailing tour around Zadar’s archipelago.

Which islands are visited during the sailing tour?

The tour includes stops at Ošljak Island and Ugljan Island in Croatia’s Zadar archipelago.

Is swimming or snorkeling included on this day trip?

Yes, there are stops for swimming and snorkeling; equipment is provided as part of your booking.

How many people can join this private sailing tour?

The boat accommodates up to 7 people per group for this private experience.

Does the tour include lunch or meals?

No lunch is included by default but you can choose to have lunch on Ugljan at your own expense or bring your own food.

Are infants or small children allowed on board?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

Who leads the sailing trip from Zadar?

A professional local skipper guides your private sailing day through the islands.

What time does the 4-hour sailing tour depart?

You can select either morning or afternoon departure times for the 4-hour option.

What’s included

Your day includes all fuel costs, use of snorkeling equipment for everyone who wants it, guidance from a friendly local skipper throughout your journey, plus all fees and taxes already covered—so you just show up at the meeting point in Zadar ready to sail out toward Ošljak and Ugljan without worrying about anything else.