Private speedboat adventure to Zadar Islands with drinks

Exploring Croatia’s Zadar Islands by Speedboat — An Authentic, Fun-Filled Adventure

This private speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the most beautiful islands in Dalmatia. You’ll cruise past azure waters, stop for swims and snorkeling, and enjoy the relaxed pace of island-hopping. The experience is tailor-made for those who want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local charm, with the bonus of drinks and the chance to meet new friends from around the world.

What makes this trip stand out? First, I love how flexible the itinerary is — your guide can follow your pace and interests, whether it’s extra time on a beach or a quick photo stop. Second, the inclusion of a GoPro camera lets you capture those memorable moments without fussing for your phone.

However, it’s worth noting that since this is an open speedboat, weather conditions can influence your experience. If it’s windy, expect some sea spray — but hey, that just means more fun in the sun. Plus, this adventure isn’t suited for everyone: those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues should consider that the boat is open and may get a bit bumpy.

Key points / Takeaways
– Authentic local experience: Visit secluded beaches and a local-cherished hidden cove away from crowds.
– Flexible itinerary: The guide can extend or shorten stops based on your preferences, ensuring a personalized outing.
– Great for social travelers: With drinks, music, and the chance to meet fellow travelers, it’s perfect for making new friends.
– Quality guides: Reviews highlight knowledgeable, friendly guides who go beyond just steering the boat.
– Inclusion of snorkeling gear and GoPro: Perfect for capturing underwater memories and enjoying the clear waters.
– Weather considerations: Wind and waves may lead to sea spray and possible itinerary adjustments; be prepared for a wet adventure.

Discovering the Croatian Coast by Speedboat

If you’re looking for a fun, relaxed way to explore Croatia’s coast and islands, this private speedboat adventure perfectly balances excitement with authenticity. It’s a 4-hour journey that charms with stunning scenery, local flavor, and the opportunity to swim, snorkel, or just soak up the sun.

The experience begins in Zadar, a city famous for its sunsets and vibrant history. From there, you’ll take a quick 15-minute ride on the open speedboat to your first stop — a hidden gem that locals cherish. This secluded beach is a peaceful retreat, away from tourist crowds, where you can swim, take photos, or simply relax on the sand. The guide’s local knowledge is evident here, and many reviews praise the authentic feel and flexibility — one reviewer mentioned their guide “really followed our likes” and even went over time to make sure everyone was satisfied.

Next, the tour moves to Preko, a charming island village worth exploring. The 1-hour stop allows for photo opportunities, sightseeing, or a swim accompanied by snorkeling if you’re feeling adventurous. The guide’s kindness toward families with young children stands out — one traveler described how their toddler was even allowed to steer the boat, creating a memorable experience for the whole family.

The ultimate highlight is the discovery of a second hidden beach, a quiet haven perfect for a break from the busy world. The boat then heads back, passing by scenic views and enjoying the lively atmosphere onboard with music and drinks.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Start at Obala kneza Branimira 20A: It’s an easy location to find, just look for the boat and arrive at least 10 minutes early. The skipper, who acts as both guide and captain, is a local expert.

Speedboat to First Hidden Beach (15 minutes): This initial ride gets your adrenaline going while giving you stunning coastal views. Keep in mind that if the sea is rough, sea spray is likely, adding a splash of fun — or challenge, depending on your perspective.

First Hidden Beach (1 hour): Here, you’ll find one of the quieter beaches loved by locals, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. A review notes that the guide often provides a “nice talk” and refreshments during these stops, making the experience more personal.

Quick ride to Preko (5 minutes): This small, picturesque village provides a chance to stretch your legs, take photos, or explore a bit. Snorkeling gear is available, and many enjoy the scenic views, with one reviewer praising the “local knowledge” of the guide.

Preko and Surroundings (1 hour): Besides swimming and snorkeling, you can walk around, soak up the relaxed vibe, or enjoy the views from above. The guide’s flexibility means you might linger longer if you want to explore further.

Second Hidden Beach (1 hour): Back in the water for more swimming or sunbathing, this secluded spot is a favorite among travelers seeking peace. One reviewer called the guide “really kind,” emphasizing how well they tailored the experience.

Return Journey (20 minutes): As you cruise back, you’ll enjoy lively music, drinks, and the chance to chat with fellow travelers. Many reviews highlight the value of this part — a chance to unwind and appreciate the scenery one last time.

The Guides and What’s Included

Kokolo Marine’s guides are praised for their local knowledge and friendly attitude. They’re skilled at making the experience comfortable and memorable. The tour includes snorkelling equipment, life vests, refreshments, and a GoPro camera — so you can capture underwater moments or scenic shots without hassle. Music adds a lively touch to the trip, with the guide often playing your preferred tunes.

The cost includes the docking and anchoring fee (10€ for adults, 5€ for children), payable in cash at the end, so budget accordingly. You won’t need to worry about food, as that’s not included, but the focus is on the scenery, swimming, and sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits anyone who enjoys being on the water, appreciates authentic local spots, and likes a flexible schedule. Families with children tend to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the chance for kids to steer the boat, as one reviewer noted. It’s also ideal for solo travelers or couples wanting a private experience with the option to mingle with others.

However, keep in mind that it’s not suitable for people prone to seasickness, those with mobility issues, or anyone over 260 lbs/118 kg, due to the open speedboat setup. If you’re visiting in summer, bring sunscreen, hats, and a sense of adventure — be prepared to get a little wet due to sea spray, especially if the weather is windy.

Price and Value

At around 4 hours, this private tour offers a lot of value. It’s more costly than some group excursions, but the exclusivity, personalized guide, and flexible stops justify the price for many travelers. Many reviews emphasize the guides’ friendly, attentive service and the chance to explore hidden beaches — not your typical crowded tour.

The inclusion of snorkelling gear and a GoPro makes it even more worthwhile, allowing you to capture memories without extra hassle. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy Croatia’s stunning scenery from a speedboat is something you won’t forget — all while relaxing with drinks and music.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a lively, authentic, and scenic way to explore the Zadar Islands, this private speedboat tour hits the right notes. You’ll see stunning beaches, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and experience genuine local spots — all with the comfort of a private guide and the fun of a speedboat ride. It’s especially suited for those who value flexibility and personal attention, as well as travelers wanting to capture their trip with a GoPro.

While the weather can influence the experience, the overall vibe is joyous and relaxed, perfect for summer days. If you’re craving a memorable day on Croatia’s waters that combines adventure, comfort, and local flavor, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children often enjoy the trip, and kids can even steer the boat, making it a fun experience for the whole family. However, small children should be able to handle being on an open speedboat and getting wet.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, cash (for the docking fee), clothes that can get dirty or wet, and a hat. Towels and swimming fins are not included, so consider bringing your own if you plan to snorkel extensively.

Does the tour include food?
No, food is not included. The focus is on the sights, swimming, and relaxing with drinks. You can bring your own snacks if desired.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The captain reserves the right to change the itinerary or postpone the trip if sea conditions are unsafe. You can choose to be refunded if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private group experience, which gives you flexibility and personalized attention from your guide.

How long are the stops?
Stops vary between 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and photos without feeling rushed.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for overweight people over 260 lbs/118 kg, people prone to seasickness, or those with mobility issues due to the open boat design.

To sum it up, this private speedboat adventure offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s stunning islands with a personal touch. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with a bit of adventure, all while enjoying local charm and relaxed vibes. Whether you’re a couple, a family, or a solo explorer, expect to leave with great memories, new friends, and a deeper appreciation for Croatia’s coast.