Uninhabited Island Discover Plavnik with a Pirate Ship

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia’s Krk Island and love a mix of scenic beauty, unique wildlife, and a dash of nautical fun, then the Uninhabited Island Discover Plavnik with a Pirate Ship tour might just be the perfect day out. This eight-hour excursion promises a blend of adventure, stunning vistas, and authentic experiences, all wrapped up in a historic ship setting that feels straight out of a pirate movie.

What we especially appreciate about this tour are two key features: first, the opportunity to explore the pristine nature of Plavnik Island, home to rare griffon vultures and striking blue caves; second, the experience of cruising aboard a characterful pirate ship that adds a sense of adventure and nostalgia. On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour’s success is somewhat weather-dependent—if the wind isn’t right, some of the highlights (like sailing with full sails) might be less dramatic.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of natural beauty, wildlife spotting, and maritime charm, especially those eager for a full day of exploration away from crowded tourist spots. It appeals to families, couples, and even solo travelers looking for a memorable, authentic taste of Croatia’s coastal wilderness.

This experience made our article of Krk Island’s 12 Best Tours & Experiences (With Prices & Reviews).

Key Points

• Authentic Croatian maritime experience aboard a pirate-style vessel
• Visit uninhabited Plavnik Island with its rare griffon vultures and blue caves
• Swim in secluded bays accessible only by boat for a private feel
• Enjoy delicious, freshly grilled local food with customizable menus
• Explore wild bays of Krk Island only reachable by boat, perfect for a last swim
• Flexible options including vegetarian, fish, or meat meals, with gluten-free choices available

A Full Picture of the Tour

This tour weaves together natural beauty, historical charm, and culinary delight, making it ideal for travelers craving more than just the typical beach day. Starting from Punat’s lively center at 10:00 am, the journey begins with a scenic boat ride on the charming, vintage vessel M/b Koljun—a boat that many reviews mention as being notable not only for its character but also for its age, with some claiming it’s from the Second World War. Its weathered appearance adds a layer of authenticity and nostalgia, and the crew’s friendliness makes everyone feel at home.

Discovering Plavnik Island

The first major stop is Otok Plavnik, a largely untouched slice of Croatian wilderness. Here, the captain and his son guide you through the island’s rugged terrain, where you’ll have the chance to swim in the famous Blue Cave—a small but striking feature renowned for its vivid blue waters that glow with sunlight filtering through underwater openings. The cave’s compact size might limit a long stay, but the experience of floating in that luminous water makes it worthwhile.

Beyond the caves, you’ll savor a relaxed lunch in a scenic bay, with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes. The reviews highly recommend the fish menu, praising its freshness and flavor—“the fish was delicious,” said one enthusiastic traveler. The lunch is served in the forested areas of Plavnik, adding a peaceful, natural backdrop to your meal. The food is prepared on the boat’s grill, which adds to the relaxed, picnic-like atmosphere.

The island is home to rare griffon vultures, and the crew often points them out soaring overhead, which is a treat for bird enthusiasts. It’s not every day you get to see these majestic birds in their natural habitat—adding a rare wildlife encounter to your trip.

Exploring the Wild Bays of Krk

After a hearty lunch, the boat drifts towards Krk’s wild bays—hidden coves accessible only by water. These secluded spots are perfect for a peaceful swim and offer a different perspective of the island’s rugged coastlines. The last swim, often a favorite part for many travelers, allows you to cool off in pristine waters away from crowded beaches.

The Pirate Ship Atmosphere

What sets this tour apart is the pirate ship ambiance. The vessel’s design, with its tall masts and sails, evokes a sense of adventure. If the wind is right, the captain will unfurl the sails, giving guests the feeling of sailing in the age of pirates. The reviews frequently mention how charming and evocative this feature is, with one traveler noting, “The crew was very friendly and the ship very characterful.” It’s a playful, immersive element that makes the whole journey memorable.

Practical Details and Value

The 8-hour trip is priced at $95.91 per person, which includes lunch, life jackets, and restroom facilities onboard. While drinks like alcohol and coffee are not included, the focus on fresh, local food makes it a good value considering the comprehensive experience. Plus, the small group size—max 40 travelers—ensures a more personalized feel.

You should plan for a day that’s largely weather-dependent; if the wind isn’t cooperating, some sailing features might be scaled back, but the overall experience remains rich with natural sights and a friendly crew.

Authenticity and Reviews: What Travelers Say

The high praise reflected in the 5-star average rating is well-earned. Travelers consistently mention the stunning views, delicious food, and the friendly, professional crew. One review notes, “The boat is very characteristic, the crew very friendly, and the stops very beautiful,” capturing the essence of this outing.

Another traveler highlights the Blue Cave as a highlight, calling it “very beautiful,” and mentions that the lunch was excellent, with a “very good” fish menu. Several reviews also emphasize how enjoyable the sailing experience was, especially if the sails are hoisted, adding an extra layer of adventure.

The experience is also described as family-friendly and suitable for children, with some reviewers noting it as a “beautiful and eventful day for all.”

The Experience You Can Expect

You’ll start your day in Punat, a lively coastal town known for its marina and boat rentals. The boat ride itself is a relaxed, scenic affair—cruising past rocky shores and lush greenery. Once at Plavnik, the highlight is the Blue Cave, a quick swim in its luminous waters that many find wonderfully invigorating.

Lunch is a laid-back affair, served in the forest near the island’s interior, where you can choose your preferred menu. The boat crew is attentive, ensuring drinks and snacks are available, though alcohol and coffee are extras.

Post-lunch, you’ll explore the wild bays of Krk, some only accessible by boat, giving you a chance to swim in secluded waters and enjoy nature’s untouched beauty. The final part of the tour is a leisurely sail back to Punat, often with the sails hoisted if the wind permits.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who crave a combination of adventure and relaxation. It suits those who enjoy wild, less-visited natural spots and appreciate good food and friendly hospitality. It’s particularly ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a memorable day on the water. If you like the idea of a nautical adventure with a touch of history and wildlife, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This cruise offers a genuine taste of Croatia’s coastal charm. From the stunning Blue Cave to the secluded bays, and the pirate ship atmosphere, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with comfort. The delicious, freshly grilled food adds a culinary highlight, making it feel like a true Croatian feast.

For travelers who enjoy exploring unspoiled nature, spotting rare birds, and sailing on a vessel with character, this tour delivers in spades. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to combine scenic beauty with a bit of maritime fun. The small group size and friendly crew make it more intimate, and the flexible food options cater well to dietary preferences.

Overall, it’s a day well spent—an authentic, picturesque Croatian adventure with plenty of opportunities for relaxation, exploration, and fun. Perfect for anyone wanting to experience the wild side of Krk Island with a splash of pirate flair.

FAQ About the Plavnik and Pirate Ship Tour

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 10:00 am from the center of Punat, so it’s best to arrive a bit early to settle in.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that it’s appropriate for families with children. The relaxed pace and safe swimming spots make it family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a camera. A light jacket may be handy if it gets breezy, and don’t forget your sense of adventure.

Will I see griffon vultures?
Yes, the island is home to these rare birds. Travelers have reported spotting them soaring overhead, a special wildlife encounter.

Are vegetarian options available?
Absolutely. The tour offers a vegetarian menu, and everything except bread is gluten-free, catering well to dietary needs.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Croatian boat trip combines the best of the country’s natural, culinary, and nautical charms. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or a fun adventure on the water, it offers a memorable day packed with scenic beauty and authentic experiences.