Zadar: Island Hopping Speedboat Adventure with Aperol Spritz

The best part of this Zadar boat trip is its variety: in four hours, you move from a quiet swimming cove to a tiny island village and then to another coastal stop for a walk, food, or one more swim. The speedboat ride adds some fun between stops, but the day is paced for relaxation rather than nonstop activity.

I like the chance to swim straight from the boat in clear water, and I like the small group limit of 12 people. Guides such as Greg, Josef, and Mario have been praised for being friendly and helpful, with some allowing passengers to choose the music. The main drawback is simple: there is no toilet onboard, and the boat can feel bumpy when the sea turns choppy.

Key points at a glance

• Three coastal stops: Plan for swimming, snorkeling, island walks, scenic views, and a little time for food or shopping.
• A real small-group outing: The boat takes no more than 12 people, giving the trip a more personal feel than a large excursion boat.
• Two Aperol Spritz included: Unlimited water is also provided, so you do not need to buy drinks for the boat ride.
• Fast transfers between stops: The speedboat makes it possible to see several places in one half-day, though the ride can be lively in rougher water.
• A friendly local skipper: Guides including Greg, Josef, and Mario have been singled out for clear explanations, good driving, and an easygoing manner.
• Bring a dry bag: Water can splash over the back of the boat, especially when the sea is choppy.

Leaving Zadar beside the Old Town bridge

The meeting point is on Ul. Jurja Barakovića 7, right beside the bridge on the side facing the entrance to Zadar’s Old Town. Look for the boat marked Abaris 23. This is a handy departure point if you are already exploring the old city, but do not assume every boat at the waterfront is yours.

The trip begins with about 25 minutes on the water. That first run gives you views back toward Zadar and a proper taste of the speedboat. You may feel the spray and the sharp movement of the boat, especially if you sit at the rear. I would keep phones, wallets, and cameras in a dry bag rather than a loose beach tote.

The boat is described as spacious for this kind of outing, with shaded areas, safety equipment, and a sound system. The group limit is 12, which matters. You are not packed into a large day boat with dozens of people, and it is easier to hear the skipper, ask a question, or get a quick suggestion about the next stop.

Music is part of the mood. Guides have sometimes let the group choose what plays, so this is not a silent sightseeing cruise. It is better suited to people who like a sociable boat ride than to anyone seeking a quiet, formal coastal lecture.

First stop: a calm cove for swimming and snorkeling

The first stop lasts about an hour and is built around the water. The skipper takes you to a quiet cove where you can swim from the boat, use the supplied snorkeling equipment, or stay on deck and enjoy the sun.

This is the most active part of the outing, but you set your own pace. If you are comfortable in the sea, you can swim away from the boat and look around below the surface. If you are new to snorkeling, the stop also gives you a low-pressure chance to try it with equipment provided. One guide, Greg, has been praised for helping a first-time snorkeler feel comfortable.

Do take care near the bottom. Sea urchins have been seen in the swimming areas, so water shoes can be useful if you have them. Stay close to the boat until you know the depth and conditions, and avoid stepping on the seabed.

The cove is also where the trip feels most removed from Zadar. You are not simply looking at the coast from a boat. You have time to get into the water, dry off, and enjoy the setting. The water may look wonderfully clear, but conditions can change with wind and sun. An overcast day can still be warm enough for swimming, though the colors may not be as dramatic.

Two Aperol Spritz per person are included during the trip. They fit the relaxed summer mood, but remember that you are still on a moving boat and in strong sun. Drink water as well. Unlimited water is provided, which is a useful inclusion rather than a minor extra.

Second stop: a tiny island village and open time

After roughly 15 minutes by speedboat, you reach the second stop. This is generally the most varied part of the route, with time for a walk, a swim, or a little sightseeing rather than just a quick photo break.

The setting may be a small island village where only a handful of people live. One particularly memorable stop has been described as home to just 10 residents. That sort of place gives you a glimpse of coastal life far removed from Zadar’s busy waterfront, even if your visit is brief.

You may walk cobbled streets, stop for a coffee or gelato, or head to a sandy beach. The exact mix depends on the location chosen that day, sea conditions, and timing. Do not expect a guided historical tour through every lane. The skipper gives information about the places you visit, but the emphasis is on free time and a relaxed look around.

I like this middle stop because it breaks up the swimming. Four hours in and out of the sea can be tiring, especially in the sun. A walk gives you time to dry off, stretch your legs, and see a little of island life. On the other hand, the available time is limited, so you may need to choose between a proper walk, a snack, and another swim.

Bring cash for this part. Street food, drinks, ice cream, or small purchases are not covered by the tour price. The docking charge is also separate: 10 euros per adult and 5 euros per child for all stops combined. That fee should be included in your budget when you compare this outing with other boat trips.

Third stop: choose between another cove or a fishing village

The final stop lasts about 45 minutes. Depending on weather, sea conditions, group preferences, and the schedule, the skipper may take you to another quiet bay or to a fishing village.

At a bay, you can swim, snorkel, relax, and take in the views. Some stops offer shallow water between nearby islands, making it possible to swim from one island toward another. That sounds tempting, but follow the skipper’s advice about where it is safe to swim and keep an eye on the boat and other water users.

At a village, you may have time for a short walk, street food, shopping, or a swim. The time is enough for a taste, not a full afternoon. Several people have found the last stop a little short, especially if they wanted to eat, explore, and get back into the water. If you are offered extra time because of a delayed docking, enjoy it, but keep the stated 45-minute plan in mind.

The flexible final stop is useful because the Adriatic is not a swimming pool. A skipper who changes the plan when the water is rough or a landing is impractical is doing the right thing. You may not visit the exact place imagined before departure, but you should still get the basic mix of sea time and island scenery.

What the speedboat ride is really like

The boat is the attraction between the stops, not just transport. The 15-minute stretches feel quick, and the longer first run gives you a stronger sense of speed. Several guides have been praised as capable drivers, including during slightly choppy conditions.

That said, a speedboat is not the smoothest way to travel. You can expect spray, wind, and sharper movement than on a slow cruise. Sitting toward the rear may mean more splashing. If you have a sensitive back, motion sickness, or little patience for bumpy rides, this is worth considering before you book.

The skipper controls the route, speed, and timing, but the atmosphere is informal. Past trips have included guides who explained each stop, gave practical information, and adjusted the schedule when docking took longer than expected. Some guides may also bring a friendly dog onboard, as happened with skippers accompanied by Ricky or Vicky. That is a charming bonus, not a guaranteed feature.

Safety equipment and life vests are included. Snorkeling equipment is supplied, too. You still need to listen carefully when the boat is moving and when the skipper explains where to enter or leave the water.

What is included for $33

At $33 per person, this is strong value if you want several coastal stops without paying for a full-day private charter. The price covers the boat, skipper, guide, snorkeling gear, life vests, two Aperol Spritz, and unlimited water.

The value comes from combining three things that are often sold separately: transport across the islands, time to swim, and a chance to walk around an island village. A basic boat transfer would not give you the same flexibility, while a private speedboat would cost far more.

You should add the docking fee to the headline price. It is 10 euros per adult and 5 euros per child, charged once for all stops. Food, ice cream, coffee, and personal purchases are also extra, as is getting yourself to the meeting point.

The four-hour length is another advantage. You can fit this trip into a morning or afternoon and still have time to explore Zadar, visit a museum, or eat dinner in town. A start from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. can work well if you want a slower morning, though you need to check the available departure time when booking.

Who will enjoy this trip most

I would choose this for couples, friends, solo visitors, and anyone who wants a half-day on the water without committing to a long cruise. It is especially good for a group that wants both swimming and a small taste of island life.

You should be comfortable climbing in and out of a boat and walking on uneven village streets. The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under one year old. Children who can manage the boat ride and swim stops may enjoy it, but the separate child docking fee applies.

This is not the right pick if you need a toilet close by, dislike music, or want a slow, highly structured sightseeing tour. The boat has no toilet, and the plan can change with conditions. It is also not a substitute for a full island day if you want hours at one beach.

Practical packing advice for a dry, comfortable day

Wear swimwear under your clothes and bring a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Beachwear is the sensible choice, since swimming can happen at more than one stop.

A dry bag is one of the best things you can bring. The boat can spray water over the rear seats, and even a calm-looking sea can send a wave across the side. Keep your phone and cash protected rather than trusting a zipped pocket.

Bring cash for docking charges and anything you buy on an island. Water is included, and two Aperol Spritz are included per person, but snacks and other drinks are not part of the stated package.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later. Those terms are useful if your Zadar plans depend on weather, but you should still check the exact starting time and conditions before setting out.

Should you book the Abaris 23 island trip?

Book it if you want a lively, affordable way to reach clear swimming water and see several small island stops in half a day. The combination of a small group, capable local skippers, snorkeling gear, music, and two Aperol Spritz gives you plenty for the price.

Think twice if you need a toilet onboard, want guaranteed time at one particular island, or prefer a quiet and very smooth boat ride. For everyone else, this is a practical choice for turning an ordinary Zadar day into a few hours of swimming, short island walks, and open Adriatic views.

FAQ

Where does the speedboat tour start?

It starts at Ul. Jurja Barakovića 7, beside the bridge on the side facing the entrance to Zadar’s Old Town. Look for the boat marked Abaris 23.

How long does the activity last?

The tour lasts four hours. Starting times vary, so check availability when you book.

How many people can join the boat?

The activity is limited to 12 participants, making it a small-group trip.

Are snorkeling equipment and life vests provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment and safety equipment, including life vests, are included.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Each person receives two Aperol Spritz, and unlimited water is available onboard.

Is there a toilet on the boat?

No. There is no toilet onboard, so plan accordingly before departure.