Waves, swims, and island time in four hours. This private speedboat hops the Zadar Islands, with swim and snorkel stops plus drinks onboard, and it runs with a local skipper who keeps things moving. One thing to factor in: it is an open boat, so on windy days you can get hit with sea spray during the rides.

You start at Obala kneza Branimira 20A, by the gas station on the sea side, and you meet the boat about 10 minutes early. Then you’re out cruising, with a mix of sea views and real downtime built in, including time on shore in Preko and at a quieter beach-style stop away from the busiest areas.

The price is $286 per group up to 9 for about 4 hours, which is a strong value when you split it across friends or family. Just remember the docking fee is extra, paid in cash at the end, and the included GoPro is something you’ll want to request from the skipper during the trip.

Key points that make this boat day worth it

• Private for up to 9 so you control the pace and can actually talk with your skipper
• Snorkelling equipment included, with real time to use it in clear-water stops
• Drinks and music onboard to keep the mood relaxed between swim breaks
• Route includes Ugljan, Ošljak, and Galevac, plus a stop in Preko
• Open speedboat means sea spray is possible if the wind picks up
• Docking fees are not included, pay 10€ per adult (5€ for children) in cash

Where you meet the boat, and how the half-day feels

This is built as a straightforward, no-nonsense half-day on the water. You meet at Obala kneza Branimira 20A, by the gas station near the sea side, and you should show up about 10 minutes early so you’re not rushed when it is time to board.

Once you’re on the boat, the vibe is casual, not stiff. You’ll have life vests, music, and a local skipper guiding the day, plus refreshments along the way. If you like having a plan but still want some freedom to hang around where you’re happiest, this setup tends to work well.

The one logistics detail I would not ignore is that the tour is private and up to 9 people. That makes it feel personal, but it also means you should pick your group carefully if anyone has motion sensitivity or struggles with speedboat rides.

Zadar Islands hopping: Ugljan, Ošljak, and Galevac in one ride

The point of this trip is variety without feeling rushed. You do speedboat travel between islands, and you get multiple stops that combine sightseeing with real water time.

The day is structured around cruising through the Zadar Islands region, including Ugljan, Ošljak, and Galevac. You’ll also pass by coastal spots and viewpoints that look best from the water, where you can appreciate all those tight coves and beach pockets that you would otherwise miss from shore.

You start with a quick run out (about 15 minutes by speedboat), then the itinerary shifts into longer shore time. That rhythm matters because it gives your body time to enjoy the scenery instead of feeling like you’re just sitting on a boat all day.

And yes, the skipper can adjust things if the sea conditions change. So if it is a rougher day out there, expect the captain to prioritize safety and possibly shuffle stops.

Stop 1: the secluded beach time for photos, walking, and swimming

After that first short cruise, you’ll reach a more calm, off-the-main-track type of beach stop. This portion is listed as about an hour and is a mix of breaks, photo stops, walking, sightseeing, and general hangout time.

The “why” behind this stop is simple: it gives you a break from motion and a chance to actually enjoy the water where locals tend to spend time. You are not just passing by, you’re stopping long enough to change your plan when you spot a better patch of water, a nicer ladder entry, or a calmer corner for swimming.

If you’re hoping for photos, this is the segment to pay attention. The itinerary includes a photo stop, and you’ll likely want to take a few minutes on shore before you commit to swimming or snorkelling.

Practical note: because this is an open speedboat, keep sunscreen handy and expect that sea spray can happen on the ride segments. It does not have to ruin the day, but you should be ready for it.

Stop 2: Preko on Ugljan for swimming, snorkelling, and viewpoints

Preko is the anchor stop for the day. You get about an hour here, and the schedule includes time for swimming, snorkelling, sightseeing, and even time described as an aerial view and pass-by cruising.

Preko also works well if you want something more than just beach time. Even with a short stop, a town name like this usually means you can mix in a little wandering or just enjoy the waterfront feel while you’re waiting for the next boat leg.

Snorkelling is a highlight here, and the good news is that snorkelling equipment is included. What is not included is swimming fins, so if you normally prefer fins for comfort or better control, plan to bring your own or accept that you’ll snorkel without them.

One item to confirm with the skipper: the itinerary lists scuba diving time at this stop. The tour includes snorkelling gear, not scuba equipment, so if scuba is something you want to do, you should ask directly whether it is available during your specific sailing and what gear, if any, you would need.

Stop 3: a second calm beach break on the way back

The itinerary includes another stop at what’s described as a local-loved beach area. This one also runs about an hour, with time for a break, photo moments, sightseeing, and free time.

This is where the day starts to feel like a real vacation rather than an excursion. You have already gotten your first swim and snorkel burst, and now you can choose: do you want to go back in for a second pass, or do you want to stay dry longer and just enjoy the coastline?

From a value perspective, this second beach block is why the trip feels complete. You are not paying for a quick look at the islands and then going home. You’re paying for repeated opportunities to enjoy the sea.

Drinks, music, and the GoPro: how to get the best memories

This is one of the nicer touches: there are refreshments included and music onboard. Between water time and shore time, that keeps the boat ride from feeling like a commute.

The tour also includes a GoPro to capture the adventure. The key detail is that you need to approach the skipper for the memories. Translation: don’t just assume you will automatically receive footage. If you care about photos or video, make it easy on yourself and ask the skipper when you can get what you want.

Also, since there’s a local skipper/guide, you’ll get context for what you’re seeing. Even if you’re not a hardcore history person, having someone who knows where people swim and which stretches are calmer can help you plan your own time on shore.

Why the guide experience matters more than you think

A private boat day lives or dies on the guide’s attitude. In this case, the day is set up for flexibility, and that shows up in how the route is paced.

The tour is described as having time adjustments based on what you like, and that can be a big deal if you’re traveling with kids. One memorable detail from past trips is that the skipper handled family needs with patience, and even gave a toddler the chance to steer the boat while still keeping the moment safe and fun. If you’ve traveled with small kids, you know how rare that is.

You also get local knowledge. That is not just small talk. It changes how enjoyable the stops feel because the guide understands what to prioritize, where you might want more time, and how to keep everyone comfortable.

So if you care about authenticity and not just checklists, this is where the tour is strongest.

Price and value: what $286 covers, and what costs extra

At $286 per group up to 9 for roughly 4 hours, this is priced like a private experience, not a shared tour. That matters in Dalmatia because speedboat days can get expensive fast once you factor in where you want to go.

Included in the price:

• local skipper/guide
• snorkelling equipment
• refreshments
• life vests
• music
• GoPro

Not included, but important:

• docking and anchoring fees: 10€ for adults, 5€ for children, paid in cash on the boat at the end
• towels
• swimming fins
• bathroom
• hotel pickup and drop-off
• food (beyond the included refreshments)

When I think about value, I treat docking fees as part of the real cost, since you will pay them. Still, even with that added, the included snorkelling gear plus multiple stops is what makes it feel fair for a private group.

Weather, open-boat spray, and who should think twice

This part is not glamorous, but it can save your mood. The boat is open, and on strong wind and higher waves, sea spray is possible. On a hot summer day, it often feels refreshing for a minute, then annoying if you are dressed wrong or had your phone out.

If you’re prone to seasickness or motion sickness, you should take this seriously. The tour is not suitable for people with motion sickness, and it’s also noted as not suitable for those prone to seasickness.

If you’re traveling with anyone who has limited mobility or comfort with uneven motion, read the limits carefully. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and there are weight restrictions noted around 120kg (250 lbs) and also around 118kg (260 lbs), so it is best to confirm the exact limit with the operator before booking if you’re close to the threshold.

And if the weather turns unexpectedly, the captain can change the itinerary for safety. If conditions are poor enough, the tour may be postponed, with an option for a refund.

What to bring so your island time stays easy

The tour gives you snorkeling gear, but you should arrive ready for sun, water, and a little mess.

Bring:

• sunscreen
• cash (for the docking fees)
• clothes that can get dirty

Also consider bringing your own towel since towels are not included. If snorkelling is a priority for you, think about whether you want swimming fins, since they are listed as not included.

If you have items like a phone, I’d handle them like water is happening anyway, because it might. Sunglasses help too, and a hat can make the midday sun easier to handle.

Who this private speedboat trip suits best

This is a great fit if you want:

• a private group experience on the water (up to 9)
• real time to swim and snorkel, not just a quick stop
• a guide who adjusts pacing and helps the trip feel personal
• an atmosphere that includes drinks and music, without going overboard

It may be less ideal if:

• you get motion sick easily
• you need wheelchair access
• you want guaranteed dry comfort on a very windy day
• you expect pickup from your hotel, since that is not included

For families, it can work especially well because the guide approach is described as kid-friendly and flexible. Just keep in mind this is still a speedboat, so small kids should be handled safely and according to the skipper’s instructions.

Should you book this private Zadar islands speedboat with drinks?

Book it if you want a half-day that mixes speed, swim breaks, snorkelling gear, and local guidance in one smooth package, and you’re going as a small group that can share the cost.

Skip it or ask lots of questions first if you or anyone in your group has motion sickness, needs accessibility accommodations, or you’re planning for a day with high wind. The open-boat spray factor is real, and it can affect comfort.

If you book, do two smart things: pack sunscreen and cash for the docking fee, and be ready to ask the skipper about the GoPro and any interest you have in extra water activities at the Preko stop.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the speedboat?

You meet at Obala kneza Branimira 20A, by the gas station on the sea side. Look for the boat in the picture. Arrive at least 10 minutes early.

How much time is the tour, and what does the schedule look like?

The duration is 4 hours. The itinerary includes speedboat travel segments plus about an hour at each main stop, including a stop in Preko and two beach-style breaks.

Is the tour private, and how many people can be in a group?

Yes, it is a private group. The price is listed as $286 per group up to 9 people.

What is included in the price?

Included items are a local skipper/guide, snorkelling equipment, refreshments, life vests, and music. A GoPro camera is also included for capturing the adventure.

Are docking or anchoring fees included?

No. Docking and anchoring fees are not included and are 10€ for adults and 5€ for children. They must be paid in cash on the boat at the end of the tour.

Is snorkelling gear provided?

Yes. Snorkelling equipment is included. Swimming fins are not included.

Can the captain change the itinerary for weather?

Yes. If sea conditions change, the captain reserves the right to change the itinerary for safety. The tour may also be postponed in bad weather, with the option to choose a refund.

Is it suitable for children?

It is not suitable for children under 2 years. The docking fee rate for children is listed as 5€ paid in cash on the boat.

What should I bring?

Bring sunscreen and cash. Wear clothes that can get dirty, since you may get wet from sea spray on an open speedboat day.