Three islands, one relaxed private boat day. You start at Port Foša in Zadar and cruise with Captain Goran, cruising out to Ugljan, Galevac, and Ošljak with plenty of time for snorkeling and easy swims between stops. It’s a small-group setup that trades crowds for calm anchorages, plus local food that doesn’t feel like a tourist snack.

I especially like the food ritual: marinated and salted anchovies served in homemade olive oil, alongside breads and other island-style bites. I also like the pacing, with short sailing stretches (20 minutes, then 10, then 15) and real breaks when you can choose to swim longer or just hang on the boat.

One catch: this tour is built for water access from the boat, so it’s not a fit for wheelchair users, and it isn’t suitable for people with epilepsy.

Key highlights at a glance

• Port Foša starting point in Zadar for an easy, no-fuss departure
• Galevac (Školji) and the 15th-century Monastery of St. Paul for a quiet, story-filled start
• Snorkeling gear included, plus time to swim off the boat at multiple anchorages
• Ošljak with hidden beaches and coves, including local snacks during the long stop
• Kostanj sandy beach in a cove that you reach only by boat, not by car
• Homemade anchovies in olive oil and other island food, served with drinks during the day

Port Foša to three islands in four hours

This is the kind of Zadar trip you do when you want the Adriatic to be the main event. From the meeting point at Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6 (Port Foša), you’re cruising soon after boarding, not sitting around waiting. The whole experience runs about four hours, and it feels efficient without feeling rushed.

The private format matters. With a group limited to up to five, you get a flexible rhythm that’s easier on families, friend groups, and couples who don’t want to be herded. Captain Goran is described as warm, respectful, and good at reading the day—how long you want to swim, when you want to slow down, and what kind of vibe you want on the boat.

You’re not just “seeing” coastlines here. You’re actually in the water. If you like snorkeling, or you simply want to cool off in clear, calm coves, this tour is built for that.

Galevac (Školji): a monastery stop with real quiet

Your first real destination is Galevac (listed as Školji), reached after a short sightseeing cruise. Galevac is known for a calm, peaceful feel—exactly the kind of contrast you want after starting in a busy port. There’s even a guided visit tied to the 15th-century Monastery of St. Paul, which gives the trip a cultural moment without dragging you through a long walking schedule.

This stop also includes the “easy swim” portion. You’ll get aperitif time and then a block of free time with swimming and snorkeling. One nice part of the itinerary design: you’re not forced to snorkel right away. You can start with a swim, watch fish if you’ve got the gear on, or just enjoy being stationary while the sea does its thing.

A practical thought: wear swimwear before you board if you know you’ll want to get in the water fast. You’ll have towel time, but it’s easier when you’re already ready.

Preko: the break stop that turns into food time

After Galevac, there’s another short cruise segment (about 10 minutes), and then you hit Preko for the longer mid-tour break. This isn’t just a photo stop. It’s built to be a breather—time for the guide’s information, plus free time where you can swim and snorkel again.

What makes this part stand out is the food tasting component. You get local island products during this stretch, and the anchovy-and-olive-oil theme continues. From the details shared by guests, the boat offerings aren’t generic: homemade-style items show up along with drinks, and the flavors are meant to be the point, not an afterthought.

You’ll also notice the trip gives you a little “choice” in practice. People describe being able to manage their own timing on a private boat, which matters because seaside energy can’t always be scheduled like a museum visit. If you want more time in the water here, you typically can. If you’d rather sit in the shade and snack, that works too.

Ošljak: one full hour of swimming and local snacks

Next comes Ošljak, where you get a longer stop (about one hour). This is one of the best parts of the schedule if you love the idea of hidden coves and small beaches that feel like they’re made for swimming. The tour’s wording points to hidden swimming and diving-appropriate areas, and the itinerary matches that with time for both swimming and snorkeling.

Ošljak also includes guided time plus free time, so you can do the practical basics (where to swim, what to watch for) and then just enjoy. Guests consistently highlight that this is a relaxed pace rather than a constant “move, move, move” tour style.

You’ll also get local snacks here. That’s important because it keeps the energy steady for the final stretch. By the time you’re headed toward the sandy beach at Kostanj, you’re not running on thirst and willpower—you’re eating and drinking while the sea is the backdrop.

Kostanj sandy beach: reachable only by boat

The final stop is Kostanj, a sandy beach in a cove that can’t be reached by car. That access detail is huge. When a beach is boat-only, you usually get fewer crowds and more of that “we’re here for ourselves” feeling.

You’ll get a photo stop and then a longer swim/snorkel block (around 50 minutes). This is the part where I’d expect you to decide what kind of swimmer you are. If you’re comfortable in the water, spend time cruising the surface with the snorkeling gear. If you’re not, still plan on enjoying the water—many people simply float, cool off, and relax while the boat stays close.

Shade can be limited at a beach, so bring sun protection and plan your water breaks. If you’ve got a sun hat, use it. It makes a real difference when you’re sitting out between swims.

Drinks and the anchovies-in-olive-oil payoff

This tour doesn’t treat food as filler. The highlight is marinated and salted anchovies in home-made olive oil, and it shows up in a way that feels like an island ritual. Guests describe it as excellent, even for people who don’t usually like anchovies. That’s one of those “try it once” foods, because the preparation is the trick.

In addition to the anchovy focus, you can also expect other bites to show up during the day. Based on guest descriptions, the spread may include breads, cheese, ham, and other simple local items served with drinks. Drinks are included throughout, with options guests call out like beer, wine, cola, and water.

And yes, the boat vibe can be part of the fun. People mention being able to play music through a speaker, which is a small detail that can turn the ride into a proper hangout. If you’re celebrating—there’s even mention of smaller birthday parties—the captain can help organize special moments like cake and champagne.

One more practical note: drink like a sailor, not like a landlubber. You’re out on the water, the sun is still working, and you’ll be moving your day around swims.

Value of $282 for a private group (up to 5)

At $282 per group for up to five people, the price only looks simple at first glance. The real value comes from what you avoid: sitting on a crowded boat, waiting for other people’s schedules, and getting swept past the good water.

Even if you’re paying more than per-person group tours, a private boat means you control the day. It’s not just comfort. It’s time. When you spend time at Galevac, Ošljak, and Kostanj, you want it to be your time, not someone else’s itinerary checklist.

It also helps that snorkeling gear is included. You’re not paying extra to make the sea part of the experience. If snorkeling and swimming are high on your priority list, this is the math that tends to work out best.

For planning: this is best when you’re a group of 3–5 and you’ll actually use the private freedom. If you’re traveling solo and only one person wants to do the water part, you might compare group options. But if you want a small group day with food and drinks included, this price often lands in the “worth it” category.

Practical tips: what to bring and how to enjoy the swim stops

The tour asks you to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel. I’d add one more mindset: pack for transitions. You’ll likely go from sun to shade to water to snack, and it helps if you’re ready in a calm way.

Also plan around comfort on a boat. You’ll be moving between anchorages, and you may step in and out for swimming depending on conditions. There’s no mention of special equipment for accessibility, so if you need step-free access, you should assume this won’t be comfortable.

Finally, consider timing inside the 4 hours. You won’t just rush through islands. You’ll have multiple swim/snorkel windows, plus guided moments and food time. That’s why it’s a good match for travelers who don’t want a nonstop lecture tour.

Who this tour suits best in Zadar

If you want a day at sea that feels personal, this fits. It works well for families (there are mentions of children enjoying the swim time), for couples who want calmer water time than big boats, and for small groups of friends who like the idea of a relaxed schedule and local food.

Birthday travelers should take note. There’s specific mention of smaller birthday parties, including organized treats like cake and champagne. If you’re planning a celebration, you’ll want to communicate early so the captain can match the vibe.

Nature lovers may be pleased by surprises. Guests report sightings like dolphins at sea, but that’s never guaranteed—just a reminder that being out on the water can sometimes exceed expectations. If you care about snorkeling, bring your comfort level with you. You’ll have the chance to see fish while floating and swimming near the boat.

Should you book this Zadar three-islands private boat tour?

I think you should book if your ideal Zadar day includes swimming and snorkeling, not just viewpoints from the coast. This tour is built for clear-water breaks, boat-only beach time at Kostanj, and a food stop that actually uses island ingredients—especially the anchovies in homemade olive oil.

Skip it if you need step-free accessibility, or if health conditions limit water activities, since the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users and isn’t right for people with epilepsy. Also be honest with yourself: if you hate the idea of getting wet and changing pace often, you may prefer a land-based sightseeing day.

If you’re deciding between paying for private versus larger-group tours, this is one of those cases where privacy isn’t just comfort—it’s schedule control. For many people, that control is exactly what makes the day memorable.

FAQ

How long is the Zadar three islands private boat tour?

It runs for 4 hours.

How many people can be on the private group?

The price is for a group up to 5 people.

Where do we meet for the tour?

The meeting point is Port Foša in Zadar (Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6).

Which islands and areas does the tour include?

The tour focuses on three islands: Ugljan, Galevac, and Ošljak, with a final stop at the sandy beach in Kostanj (a cove not reachable by car).

What’s included with the tour besides the boat?

Food and drinks are included, and snorkeling equipment is provided.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.