A day on the Adriatic beats a bus ride. This private sailing tour from Zadar is built around slow cruising, short hops between islands, and time in the water with provided snorkeling gear. I like that it stays private for your group (up to 7), so the pace can match you, not a schedule jammed with strangers. I also like the mix of scenery-from-the-deck sailing plus real swim time at Ošljak and Ugljan.

One thing to keep in mind: this experience needs good weather, and you’re on the water for about four hours, so bring a plan for shade, sun, and when you want to take it slow.

Key highlights worth planning for

• Two island swim stops at Ošljak and Ugljan, with snorkeling equipment included
• Small-group private charter capped at 7 people for a more relaxed pace
• Sailing time with Zadar coast views from the sea, not the shoreline
• Ugljan’s Green Island character with pine, olives, figs, and vineyards
• Flexible onboard moments like extra time reported by past groups (not guaranteed, but possible)
• Local crew energy led by Laura and skipper Toni/Tonci, with drinks and snacks sometimes offered

Private Sailing in the Zadar Archipelago: What You’re Really Buying

You’re not just paying for boat rides. You’re paying for access: to quiet water spots, to easy snorkeling breaks, and to islands you’d need local knowledge to time well on your own.

This is a private setup, with a duration of about 4 hours and a group size of up to 7 people. That size matters. Big tour boats can feel like a moving checklist. Here, you can actually slow down, swim when you’re ready, and ask questions without shouting over dozens of voices.

The included stuff is also straightforward: snorkeling equipment, skipper, fuel, and all fees/taxes. Lunch and alcohol aren’t included, so you’ll either plan lunch yourself on Ugljan (if you want it) or keep it lighter and snack-ready.

Getting to the Boat in Zadar: The Bregdetti Start

The tour starts and ends at the same meeting point: Bregdetti ul. 42, 23000 Zadar, Croatia. That round-trip setup is underrated. When the boat returns you to the meeting point, you’re not stuck figuring out an awkward taxi situation later.

The experience uses a mobile ticket, and it’s offered in English. Confirmation comes at booking, and the crew waits for you on the boat, with sailing starting shortly after you meet.

Cruising Toward Ošljak: 30 Minutes of Zadar Coast From the Water

The first leg is a gentle 30-minute sail from Zadar toward Island Ošljak. This part is simple but valuable: you see Zadar’s coastline from a moving viewpoint, which changes the whole mood. On land, you notice buildings and streets. From the water, you notice how the coast bends, where the sea opens out, and how the islands sit like punctuation marks along the Adriatic.

As you head out, you also get a feel for the water conditions. If the sea is calm, snorkeling later is more comfortable. If it’s a bit choppier, you’ll want to go into the swim stops with realistic expectations.

Ošljak (Calugerà): Your First Real Swim and Snorkel Stop

Ošljak is a small island just off the coast between Zadar and Ugljan. Historically, it was known as Calugerà, tied to the Calogerà family, who built a summer residence and gardens. Today, it’s essentially an island-with-vistas kind of place, including a single village and a highest point called Lazaret.

You get about 1 hour here, which is the sweet spot for most people:

• time to get in the water
• time to snorkel and look around the seabed
• time to relax without feeling rushed

The snorkeling and swimming stop is clearly the headline action. If you’ve ever been stuck on a tour where everyone splashes for five minutes and then talks for an hour, this won’t be that. You have enough time to do it properly.

One practical note: snorkeling enjoyment depends on visibility and how comfortable you feel floating. Since the island stop is time-boxed, I’d avoid overthinking it. Swim first, then decide if you want a longer snorkel session.

Ugljan Island’s “Green Island” Feel: Sightseeing, Swim Time, and Lunch Options

After Ošljak, you move to Ugljan Island, part of the Zadar archipelago. Ugljan is famously called the green island because of its Mediterranean vegetation: dense bush, pine trees, olives, figs, and vineyards. It’s not just pretty on a postcard. That plant mix shapes the whole feel of the island from the sea—shaded slopes, a mix of cultivated and wild-looking areas, and lots of texture.

Ugljan also has deep roots. The island was inhabited as far back as the Stone Age, and caves there are linked to even older remains. It has a strong connection to the sea, including long fishing traditions and about 2,000 years of olive growing.

On this tour, Ugljan is where you slow down more. You’ll have about 2 hours for a blend of:

• sightseeing from shore areas
• swimming
• optional lunch (lunch is not included, but the time is there)

A smart way to use this time is to do a quick scan first—walk a bit, find the best viewing spots, then decide when you want your second swim. That way you’re not racing between activities.

The Return Sail to Zadar: Sea Breeze, Views, and an Easy Finish

After Ugljan, the tour ends with about 30 minutes sailing back toward Zadar. This final stretch is a nice reset. Even if you’ve done the swimming already, you still get the payoff of being on the water as the coast comes back into view.

Some past groups noted that the sailing route can include passing Zadar’s Sea Organ area toward the end. I’d treat that as a bonus rather than a guaranteed highlight, but it’s exactly the kind of detail that makes a short half-day feel special.

The tour ends back at the meeting point, so you can transition to your next plan without a complicated pickup.

Snorkeling Gear Included: How to Make the Most of It

You’ll have snorkeling equipment included, which is one of the biggest value points here. Gear rentals can eat time and money on vacation. Here, you spend your mental energy on enjoying the water instead of managing logistics.

Still, a little preparation helps:

• Wear swimwear under your clothes so you’re ready fast when you hop in
• Bring a towel and something quick to throw on afterward (sun + wind can cool you off)
• If you’re not a confident swimmer, plan to keep things relaxed and use the moments you’re most comfortable

Also, the tour rhythm matters. There are two water moments: one on Ošljak (about an hour) and one on Ugljan (within a longer stop). That means you can snorkel once seriously and still enjoy a second casual swim without turning the day into a fitness test.

Price and Value: $278.16 for Up to 7 People

At $278.16 per group (up to 7) for about 4 hours, the cost becomes interesting fast if you’re traveling with friends or family.

Here’s why it can be good value:

• You’re paying for a private charter, not a shared boat
• The price includes the skipper and fuel
• Snorkeling equipment is included
• All fees and taxes are included

What’s not included is equally important: lunch and alcoholic beverages. If you plan to eat on the islands, budget for it. But you do have a lunch option on Ugljan since you have time there, so it’s not like you’re forced to snack your way through the whole day.

If you’re only two people, it may feel pricier than a shared excursion, but it can still be worth it for the privacy and the simpler vibe. If you’re five to seven people, this price often feels like a small price for a big change of pace.

Who This Private Charter Fits Best

This is a strong match if you want:

• privacy and control over your schedule
• a mix of sailing views and real time in the sea
• an easy, half-day plan without changing locations constantly

It’s also a good choice for families, since the tour is structured with swim stops and downtime, not nonstop walking. If anyone in your group needs help getting in and out of the boat, the crew is described as willing to assist, which matters more than people think until they’re standing at the edge.

If you only want one quick photo moment and zero water time, this might be too active. But if you actually want to swim and snorkel, you’re in the right place.

Should You Book Antares Sailing in Zadar?

I’d book it if you’re chasing a half-day that feels like a true day out on the water: private, paced, and built around swimming and island views. The included snorkeling gear and skipper make it easy to show up and enjoy the day.

Hold off or adjust expectations if:

• the forecast looks rough (the experience requires good weather)
• you don’t want to spend time on a boat or in the water
• you expect lunch or alcohol to be part of the package (it isn’t included)

My rule of thumb: if your group can fill most of the 7-person limit, this becomes a very good value way to enjoy the Zadar archipelago without the crowd pressure. If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, it can still work, just do the math based on what privacy is worth to you.

FAQ

How long is the private sailing tour?

It’s about 4 hours.

What’s the group size limit?

The price is for a group of up to 7 people.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Bregdetti ul. 42, 23000 Zadar, Croatia, and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

What does the price include?

It includes the skipper, fuel cost, all fees and taxes, and snorkeling equipment.

What is not included?

Lunch, dinner, breakfast, and alcoholic beverages are not included.

Which islands and areas do you visit?

You sail from Zadar toward Ošljak, then to Ugljan, and return to Zadar.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it is offered in English.

Is it private?

Yes. It’s a private tour/activity, and only your group participates.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is free cancellation available?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

If you tell me your travel dates and how many people are in your group, I can help you think through whether the timing and value make sense for you.

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