Zadar: Speedboat Island Tour with Snorkeling & Drinks

Summary

Adriatic islands by speedboat from Zadar, swim and wander village lanes

You’ll ride a speedboat from Zadar to tiny Adriatic islands, swim and snorkel in crystal-clear water, wander quiet village lanes on Ošljak, and taste local drinks right by the sea. With a local guide leading the way and all gear included, expect salty hair and new stories — plus that feeling you only get when you’re far from crowds.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly lost my hat before we’d even left Foša harbor in Zadar — that first blast of sea wind caught me off guard. Our guide Luka just grinned and said it meant good luck for the trip (I’m not sure if he made that up). The boat felt small but quick, skimming over the water while the city faded behind us and the air started to smell more like salt than sunscreen. There was this weird mix of excitement and calm as we headed out toward Ošljak, which Luka told us is the smallest inhabited island in the Adriatic. I could actually see every house from the boat — it’s that tiny.

We dropped anchor near Ošljak and I hesitated before jumping in (the water looked colder than it was). There’s something about snorkeling here that feels different — maybe it’s how clear everything is, or just knowing you’re floating above a place where people have lived for centuries. I remember a local fisherman waving at us from his old wooden boat; he shouted something I didn’t catch, but Luka laughed and waved back. After swimming, walking through Ošljak’s narrow paths felt like stepping into someone’s backyard — fig trees everywhere, cats dozing in patches of sun. I tried to order coffee at a little café but ended up with something closer to rakija. Not complaining.

The next stop was Galevac island for more snorkeling (and yes, I finally managed to put on the mask without fogging it up). There’s a 13th-century monastery tucked among gardens here — you can hear church bells if you listen between splashes. The sun got stronger by then and someone passed around ice-cold Prosecco while we dried off on deck. Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed on a “speedboat tour” — but there was this slow rhythm to everything, like nobody cared about time except maybe the captain keeping half an eye on clouds rolling in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Speedboat tour with swimming and exploring

• Depart from Zadar oldest harbor Foša
• Stop at Ošljak island for exploring
• Swim and snorkel at Galevac island

Top questions

How long does the Zadar speedboat tour last?

The standard tour lasts 4 hours; there is also a 3-hour version focused on swimming and snorkeling stops.

What islands do you visit on this day trip from Zadar?

The tour stops at Ošljak island and Galevac island; both are part of the Zadar archipelago.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your booking.

Are drinks included during the speedboat tour?

Yes, each guest gets one drink such as Aperol Spritz or Prosecco; bottled water is also available.

Is there free time to explore island villages?

Yes, there’s free time on Ošljak island for wandering or relaxing by the sea.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup; guests meet at Foša harbor in Zadar 5-10 minutes before departure.

Can infants join this boat tour from Zadar?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult's lap during the ride.

Is this suitable for travelers with mobility issues?

No, it's not recommended for travelers with mobility limitations due to space constraints onboard.

What’s included

Your day covers use of snorkeling gear, bottled water whenever you want it, plus one drink (Aperol Spritz or Prosecco) served onboard as you relax between stops — all led by a local guide who knows these islands inside out before returning to Zadar harbor.