Swap the promenade for a luxurious seat on a modern speedboat and set out to the nearest islands of the Zadar archipelago. After check in at the waterfront meeting point opposite Restaurant Foša your skipper welcomes you aboard, runs through a short safety briefing, and hands out snorkel gear. The ride is smooth and scenic with sea views of Zadar behind you and a string of green islands ahead.
Your first stop is often Ošljak, a tiny car free island with pine shade and a clear pebbly shoreline. You can swim, snorkel, or follow a short path for photos of the channel and Ugljan across the water. From here the boat zips to a quiet cove that your guide selects for the day. Expect time to float over bright sand patches and look for small fish in calm water. The last stop is the town of Preko on Ugljan where you can swim from the beach, stroll for gelato, or simply sit by the harbor before the return run to Zadar. It is a relaxed plan that fits comfortably into half a day and leaves the rest of your afternoon open.
Practical notes keep the day easy. The group is capped at about twelve guests so boarding is quick and the atmosphere stays friendly. There is no toilet on the boat so plan to use facilities at the final stop. Mooring fees of around ten euros per person are paid in cash on the day. Bring water, a towel, a hat, and reef safe sunscreen. The meeting address is Ul. kralja Dmitra Zvonimira 6 on the port side near Foša, close to the Old Town landmarks and an easy walk from the Sea Organ.
