A Full-Day Croatian Coastal Escape: Boat Trip from Medulin to Kamenjak and Ceja Island
If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day on the water in Croatia’s Istrian coast, a full-day boat trip from Medulin offers just that—plus a dash of adventure, delicious local food, and plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun. Based on hundreds of reviews, this tour seems to strike a good balance between comfort, excitement, and value.
What we especially love about this experience is the chance to see stunning coastal scenery without the hassle of driving and to enjoy a fresh, homemade lunch while cruising the Adriatic. Plus, the opportunity to swim in an underwater cave is a highlight for many travelers. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent, and some guests have mentioned it can get crowded or that the cave swim might be brief.
This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, food lovers, and those who enjoy a relaxed day on the water with a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and socializing. If you’re after an authentic Croatian experience that combines natural beauty with local flavors, this trip could be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- Stunning coastal views of Medulin Bay, Kamenjak National Park, and the Premantura peninsula.
- Unique underwater cave exploration, an unforgettable highlight for water enthusiasts.
- Delicious freshly grilled lunch with options including tuna, fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes.
- Swim and relax on Ceja Island, a private island perfect for sunbathing.
- Unlimited drinks throughout the day, including wine, beer, sodas, and schnaps.
- Expert guides provide information and safety support, enhancing the experience.
This experience made our article of Medulin’s 10 Best Cruises And Boat Tours: Which To Choose?.
The Journey Begins: From Medulin Harbor
Your day starts at the harbor in Medulin, where you’ll easily spot the distinctive red and yellow boat, Sandra. The crew is friendly and welcoming, and they’ll be waiting for you in front of the boat, usually under a red umbrella. Arriving 30-45 minutes early is wise, to settle in and get ready for a smooth start.
Once aboard, you’ll set sail and immediately encounter some of the most gorgeous views Croatia has to offer. The boat offers a good vantage point for panoramic shots of Medulin’s archipelago and the Premantura peninsula, with its rugged coastline and protected nature.
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Exploring Cape Kamenjak and the Underwater Cave
The first major stop is Cape Kamenjak, Croatia’s southernmost point and a protected nature park. This area is known for dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a sense of wild, unspoiled coastline. The boat cruise lasts about an hour as you approach this scenic spot.
Here, the real excitement begins. You can swim into and explore a captivating underwater cave, a chance to see the marine life and rock formations that make this coast so special. The crew is attentive, guiding you safely through the water. As one reviewer mentioned, the cave swim was “beautiful and exciting,” though some noted it might be a brief experience due to safety or time constraints.
The Iconic Porer Lighthouse and Coastal Views
After the cave adventure, the boat continues along the coast to reach the Porer Lighthouse, built in 1846 during the Austro-Hungarian Empire. This picture-perfect lighthouse sits on a small island, offering another photo-worthy stop. It’s a great moment to marvel at the historic structure against the backdrop of shimmering waters.
Lunch on the Water: Fresh and Satisfying
Midway through the trip, you’ll enjoy an on-board barbecue lunch that many find to be a true highlight. Options include tuna steak, fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes, served with cabbage salad and fresh ciabatta bread. The food is described as delicious and freshly prepared, making this a satisfying break.
The tour includes unlimited drinks—white and red wine, beer, sodas, and schnaps—so you can sip your favorite beverage while enjoying your meal. Reviewers frequently praise the quality and variety of the drinks and the friendly service on board, with one saying, “The food was awesome, and the drinks kept coming.”
More Great Tours NearbyCeja Island: Sun, Swim, and Relaxation
After lunch, the boat gently cruises to Ceja Island, a tranquil private island with a beach ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing. Here, guests typically spend two to three hours soaking up the Croatian sun or taking a dip in the inviting waters.
On Ceja, you’ll find a restaurant and café bar if you want a snack or coffee. Several reviews mention the pleasure of relaxing on the island, with one traveler noting that it’s “a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the scenery.” Keep in mind that cash is only accepted on the island, so plan accordingly.
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Returning to Medulin
As the day winds down, you’ll head back to the harbor, with the chance to reflect on an experience that combines nature, history, and good company. The return trip often allows for more sightseeing or photos of the coastline as the sun gets lower in the sky.
How the Experience Feels for Travelers
Many guests describe the tour as well-organized, enjoyable, and value-packed. One reviewer appreciated the timeliness and helpfulness of the staff, while another highlighted the beautiful setting and tasty food. The inclusion of unlimited drinks and the guided cave swim make the price of around $53 quite attractive for a full day on the water.
Some travelers noted that crowds can be an issue during peak season, and the short duration of the cave swim might leave water lovers wanting more. Weather can also influence the experience, as the captain reserves the right to cancel if conditions aren’t safe.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is perfect for adventurers eager to explore the Croatian coast from the water, families looking for a relaxed day out, and anyone interested in local flavors and scenic beauty. The mix of cultural sights like the lighthouse, natural wonders, and leisure time makes it a well-rounded choice. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy social, all-inclusive experiences with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and enjoy good food and drinks.
The Sum Up
This full-day boat trip from Medulin offers a solid value for travelers wanting a taste of Croatia’s stunning coastline and underwater secrets. You’ll appreciate the professional guides, scenic stops, and tasty lunch, all wrapped into a flexible and enjoyable package. Whether you’re a water enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in search of relaxing sunshine, this tour has plenty to offer.
The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly service, and authentic local flavors makes it a compelling choice—especially for those who want to experience Croatia’s coast without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.
If you’re after a fun, well-organized day on the water, with a chance to see some of the best sights Croatia has to offer, then this boat trip from Medulin is certainly worth considering.
FAQ Section
- What is the starting point of the tour? The tour begins at the harbor in Medulin, with the boat called Sandra, identifiable by its red and yellow colors.
- How early should I arrive? It’s recommended to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.
- What should I bring? Pack swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during swimming and sunbathing.
- Does the tour depend on weather conditions? Yes, if the weather or wind is bad, the captain may cancel or reschedule the tour for safety reasons.
- Is there a limit on drinks? Drinks are unlimited during the trip, including wine, beer, sodas, and schnaps.
- Are vegetarian options available? Yes, the lunch offers vegetarian dishes alongside fish, tuna steak, and meat options.
- How long is the stop on Ceja Island? Typically, you’ll have around two to three hours for sunbathing and swimming.
- Is there any extra cost on the island? Yes, on Ceja Island, only cash is accepted, so bring some euros for snacks or drinks.
- Can I book the tour and pay later? Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance.
- Are transfers included? No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included but can be arranged upon request.
This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and Croatian culture—making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic coastal day out.
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